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I have been a wrestling fan for nearly 20 years. I am HARDcore fan of WWE. When it comes to the world of professional wrestling I know my stuff and if your a fan of wrestling and you want the inside scoop of wrestling inside news , I am your source for everything wrestling.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Being a servant or are you caught in a snare? - Devotional 106



Before I begin , I would like to say that this devotional for me will be one from the heart. In other words this devotion has been placed on my heart. I write devotionals and to me its pretty simple of why I do them, to draw closer to Lord. But lately with the devotionals they have all managed to teach me a lesson or two. but on the other hand I feel like I'm doing what I don't want to do with God, which is get in and get out. in other write a devotional just for the sake of writing a devotional. Thats not how I want to do things for God. I want to write a devotional because they effect me and mean a great deal to me. So after hearing a sermon from John Hagee about what have you done for Jesus lately? Are you serving him, the way that glotifies him? With all the devotionals I have written. I took one look at the pastor and said openly and honesty NO! Not like I used too. So I started what makes me a servant of God. How do I really know I am connecting with him? Hagee did one very interesting thing, he pointed out that in the book of Romans Paul would introduce himself as a servant of Christ. Not out for himself. Peter would also introduce himself as a servant of Christ.So needless to say it got me thinking, about what I'm really doing with the devotionals and the real purpose behind them. The truth is it is my full intention to glorify God through these devotionals, how ever I feel as though doing them just don't bring me the same amount of joy as they once did. So what does that mean is this a crisis of faith, not by a long shot. It means something has to change, I can't just drive thru and except Jesus to show up whenever the time is good for me. When I say something has to change, I mean a total 360.

How?

1. Devotional in the morning and at night.
2. Workout more during the day
3. Develope Fellowship with study groups
4. Read the word
5. Believe in the word
6. Pray, Pray. Pray!!!
7. Christian Music

In the name of Jesus I declare 2010 to be a new beginning , a fresh start, filled with great oppertunities and greater succuess. I will declare I now know what it is to be a servant of Christ. I myself can boldly say that because of these things, I am A servant of Christ.


Romans 1

1Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God— 2the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David,


Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Standing firm : Get in touch with your original design - Devotional 105




While playing Smackdown Vs Raw 2010 I came to a realization, that everyone needs a new day.
Why is it a new day, because I came to the thought that I can be Shaken not Shattered.
Why am I confident? Because I need to put total faith in the word, the word of God. How do you have total faith you have to recconect with your original design. I learned that through reading Mathew Hagee's book "Shaken not Shattered."
As a person of faith, I must admit the world is an attractive place, but with the attraction comes the disconnect from God. Why honestly because I sometimes become too confident for my own good. Although God wants his children to lead happy lives, we as the children of God. Must turn our faces away from the things of the world and turn our faces and hearts over to God. A certain piece of scripture really speaks to me when it comes to wanting to recconecting with the Holy Spirit and the Lord our God.

Psalm 40

1I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.

2He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

3And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

4Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

5Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.

6Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required.

7Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me,

8I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

9I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

10I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.

11Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD: let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.

12For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me.

13Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me: O LORD, make haste to help me.

14Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.

15Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha, aha.

16Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.

17But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.


Thanks for the "TRUE AWAKENING"

Revelation 21:4 (King James Version)

4And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.




Monday, January 25, 2010

Childhood Dreams!- Devotional- 104




I started to think today, what exactly is the perfect image of a perfect family? Certainly every family has there so called good days and bad, right?
I felt compeled by God to write this devotional today , because every once and a while a family that is close can get a little too close for comfort which may cause ripples in peaceful waters. I would call it "The Angry Family but I might just say that to make a point. Mostly everyone in my family is disappointed in that I dropped out of Conestoga College. Most of them don't understand why or how I could ever do such a thing. I did not drop out of college to make a disgrace and become an utter disappoint of myself. I did it because I wanted to chase a dream. A childhood dream. Most people have childhood dreams , but not alot of people follow through why? Because as people grow older, the ability to dream becomes sort of lost cause because of the matter of responsibile. But I want to make a point. Just becaise you have a dream doesn't mean you don't have responsibillity.

Hebrews 13:8 (King James Version)

8Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.


Saturday, January 23, 2010

Praise in times of peril- Devotional 103



In a world where it says people are Christian more on their facebook profiles, my space and twitter pages than written on their hearts. The world seems to be walking around with a blindfold on. No that's not to offend anybody it's just to point out the obvious. This world has turned into more people chasing after the next big payout and than get it any cost, even to the point of burnout.

But when the burnout stage is reached, how does that make people happy? In fact I do believe that when people reach the burnout stage, they are not happy , in fact they are the complete opposite end of the spectrum, they are grumpy and usually want some rest. That is if they don't plug some Red Bull into them first.

But happens to Christians when they feel overwhelmed and burden? Do they cower and hide inside a shell. No they do the opposite. BE BOLD. I say this because a lot of Christians today are afraid of what they say and what the world might think, well Christians it is time for a wake up call. What does that mean? Simple it is written in the word of God that not to worry about what to say, because if your heart is one after God, than Jesus himself will speak through you and give you the words to say.

Than you say Anthony, it seems like everybody is against me , they make a million decisions, they always get mad at me. I say to you that's OK. Be Patient, Be Stead fast and be glued to the good book like you are to You-Tube. I want you remember two things. "Greater he who is you than who is the world. If God is for you than who can be against you?"

Now you may say that Anthony, I'm loosing control. I feel captive what do I do. STAND FIRM! How? Good question take a look at this video.



So whats your point, Anthony? My point is that with God NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE.
Look at this short video about the imprisonment of Paul and Silas.




Acts 16:20-26 (New International Version)

20They brought them before the magistrates and said, "These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice."

22The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. 23After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.

25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.




Thursday, January 21, 2010

The journey to the center of the earth - Devotional 101


I watched the film, Journey to the center of the earth last night and it got me thinking of God. More specifically the things , we see and don't see. See Hollywood does an amazing job of showing viewers the various possibilities that do happen on scientific terms. I'm not a movie basher by any means. I think the movie was done beautifully not because it dealt with science but the constant message that human beings as we know are always so curious as to what's out there. For that I have a biblical response. In 2 Corinthians 4:18 as it is written; 2 Corinthians 4:18 (New International Version)



18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Mom, where did God come from?- Devotional 100!




First off, I want to thank God for allowing to have 100 devotionals. Thats quite a feat.
and because it is special the topic under discussion tonight is just that. SPECIAL!
Why? because its about science Darwin and whole lot of speculation with no real truth. Alot of people have questioned where we come from. It's the age old question, the reason why that is though is because we are a curious race with intellect. It is common for people to wonder where we come from.

The important thing to remember is not automatically just out the word of God. Because if you do, it has a way of coming back to you. Reaping what you sow persay.
Recently on Youtube, I watched a sagment from way of the master and Charles Darwin's book, the origin of spices.

Watch the Video and see what you think....





“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that naturewill reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”- Galatians 6:7-8



The important thing to remember is that science is not correct, neither is religion. The only thing that is correct is the impact that God made for us.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Because of Good 'Ol J.R. Devotional 99





Many people in my walk of life, would consider me to be at a crossroads, but they believe that because it is what they only see. The truth being that I have endured suffering and long standing torment. Only to hold steady to the word, especially when everyone would laugh at me. claiming that the word has false hope. Some people may say that me dropping out of Conestoga College was the worst thing I could ever do. Well let me tell you, I can tell you straight up, it was NOT the worst thing I have ever done. In fact it is the best thing that I had done, for the first time ever I have my head on straight and chasing a dream. Why was I so unhappy at Conestoga College, simple I was pleasing men and not honouring myself.

John 5:41-44 (New International Version)

41"I do not accept praise from men, 42but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. 43I have come in my Father's name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. 44How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God[a]?

So why choose television broadcasting , because of Good 'Ol J.R. Jim Ross. I was truly inspired by Jim Ross and the reason why that is because of his passion that J.R. had when calling his wrestling matches.

This is why I choose to leave Conestoga College "Home of the Conestoga Condors and in September join Fanshawe College home of the Fanshawe Falcons.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

The Conestoga Circles- Devotional 102




Throughout my life, there has been people by side. Why well, its obvious they do it to protect me. But sometimes through family, it is difficult for some people to cut the strings. Here's a discussion I had with a family member earlier.
To me, its not about making money, to me its not about making money. Its about doing that I love doing, OK I admit I had a lot things done for me, but its the way I was raised. I was smothered for years. I am not saying that I don't appreciate the help. But don't be upset, be glad that I'm finally stepping up to the plate. I know it took some years, but a least I'm doing it


On one hand, my family has done a tremendous amount of things for me, but at the same time, it was also there parental responsibility. They should trust in themselves that they did a good job raising me. Everyone believes that me leaving college is a let down. But let me explain to you why I left Conestoga, I was tired of the politics. One of the main reasons , in fact it is the reason I left Journalism is because of the CNN report on wrestler John Cena.

View the report here.

So why is this important to me, because WWE is the business I grew up watching and admiring. Now this concerned me because one day I want to broadcast for the WWE and I don't want to be known as someone who drags people's name through the mud, because its my name on the line. That is the biggest mystery of why I left Journalism at Conestoga College.

After I turned down Journalism, I felt like I had taken 3 steps back and a half of step forward. I had told my cordinators that I want to broadcast in sports, but my guess is that they didn't have enough faith in me, so I ended playing the game until I was tired of going through hoops for the college. Plain and simple I wanted to broadcast, but it wasn't that simple according to the school. Cordinators decided that I should get the basics of education taught to me, like General Arts. But there was only problem , I hate algebra and geography so I failed it knowing that I would fail. So for my 3 time around I took Media Communications Fundementals. and I think the greatest thing I learned in that program was how to write slam poetry, which I rock at now , thanks to a nice professor Melissa.

But at the same time in the MCF program , there was no studio work, this disappointed me greatly because the second highest mark that I ever received in college was 78 in Broadcast performance. Why? Because for the first time ever I was being totally myself. and loving it.

However because I was mixed up in so many programs through 3 years, it felt like I was going in circles, starting from point a every single year and going nowhere fast.


Exodus 17
Water From the Rock
1 The whole Israelite community set out from the Desert of Sin, traveling from place to place as the LORD commanded. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. 2 So they quarreled with Moses and said, "Give us water to drink."
Moses replied, "Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you put the LORD to the test?"

3 But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses. They said, "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?"


_____________________________________________________________________________
Everything is alright with your eyes on Christ. _________________________________________________________________________

Monday, January 18, 2010

God's Will be done? REALLY! Devotional 98(Video)




Be Redeemed by Friday! -Devotional 97


Become a better you, sounds like a crazy title for a book. Oh wait a minute, it is. I am not of Joel Osteen or the way he preaches the gospel. Why? Because he preaches prosperity gospel with no means of redemption.





Romans 12:2 (New International Version)

2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Inspiration for Transformation - Devotional 96


Its easy to be influenced in today's world by many things, the things that attract your attention could be clothes, music, books, television, video games, history, poetry, war, or even food.

The reason I call this devotional "Inspiration for Transformation is simple, because I myself was inspired by words. But not just by any means, a challenge. A slam poetry challenge. It ignited a fire in me that would lead me to write this devotional at approximately 11:00PM. ON Saturday January 16, 2010. Now for those of you who don't know what slam poetry is, your missing out on so much creativity.



Now because I am a man of faith, I decided to create a slam poetry to describe to my facebook friends how I celebrate and see my faith.

It's pretty difficult for me to write something of this nature. I'll give it a try and see how it goes.

(Clear throat)

This isn't an ordinary posted note what I'm about to say could get me band from 50 countries or shipped away on a e boat. When this poem is done and the dust settles and smoke clears, God's son will still be here, even for those people that can't see or hear. They have to trust the God is near. That's why in the bible it says "Thou shall not fear. If you think that knowing Jesus means a ride, than the same could be said for ticking crocodiles and magical fairies named Tink. It's not just an imagination He is my whole inspiration. Writing devotions is what I do, I'm a student of the game and no I don't do it for the fame, because that would be rather lame. Let me ask you a question, Do you get what I'm saying? We all live in in a complicated world. Everyday we see a sea of faces on the streets in our cities and, towns. I have one question why do they all look so down? Life these days gets busy, But if you don't stand still for a moment you could get dizzy just some girl named Lizzy, no that's not a pun to make fun, You want to know the king of kings put on some good shows and go for a run. Preferably NIKE, don't buy into the brand or because you be like Mike. Take the run, because it's what's right, and that is why I write. I write to inspire but I don't like books by Stephanie Meyer. But just like in that famous Creed song the Lord can take me higher. I don't write to tell a story or to get on Maury, after all it's just a show, if I did that for fame that would really lame. Remember the lamb that was slain. because whether you believe or not it's the blood shed of slain lamb that gives you the very blood that runs through your veins. So whether you praise or haze, or just plain don't like what I say, I tell you the truth, there will come a day, that devotions will reach as the seas as to the oceans. KNOWING Jesus is more than a physical action or mental emotion, its not a religion. Just like in any relationship it's a matter of devotion.

In the name of Jesus Who? - Devotional 95


Have you ever questioned faith? Chances are, if your lived even one life, you at least explored the possibilities and questions of matters concerning faith. Now does that make naive? No not all, it makes you human. In the world of now with all the technologies my hope is that you are familiar with Facebook. Now a days if you want to know whats going on with the rest of the world right from the comfort of your computer screens, check out facebook. While on Facebook one day I had a message posted on my FB main page, what God wants you to know on this day.

This caught the eye appeal of my friend and he asked me question , whether I am Catholic or Christian? Here's my response to him, I think were all the same man, Everybody out there whether they admit or not. They want to believe in something. Its human wonder to question. I am ITALIAN and although that has been brought through the ringer many times, It is assumed that because I am Italian I'm catholic. Truth be told that it was I was baptized as. As you come to your own you ... See Morebeen to gain a sense of knowledge and prospective I'm not trying to bash Catholics, just from what I seen in my experiences ONLY some Catholics just like the title. To them its kind of like a free pass, they go to masses on Easter and Christmas. But with that Ideal, there is no responsibility or need for respect. I always something deeper to go on and its more difficult but its worth it. So currently I am Christian and I don't plan on changing anytime soon. I'm not going to get all bible thumbery on you but the biggest thing I can do is show your respect to the man upstairs, and in order to understand I read the bible like everyday. For me a devotional that I write is the truest form of respect, because its me applying what I know from the bible and what impact the bible leaves on me that day.
At the same time it is the hardest thing to do, because you have to contend with people that don't necessarily believe in what you believe.
I for one know what its like to have one faith challenged. I've lost many friends over my faith. For me I just try to do the best I can , and if has questions, bring em on. I have open discussions alll the time with people. Some good some bad but were never perfect anyway.

That's the short answer and trust me when I say this , THAT'S the short answer.

His response was well both of Catholics and Christians, are sadly mistaken in believing in what they do, not to judge you or say your wrong, but both of those religions are so dirty it's not even funny, I'd feel more like a sinner listening to that gibberish, they constantly lie, no offense, the bible today, is straight up bullshit lies, and not even the full ... See Mo reversion so theirs no point there, haven't you always wondered why there's no female t estimates? and to believe in a region that is completely hypocritical on themselves, who used to kill their own kind, I really find it hard to believe or even acknowledge that religion. Let alone if there was a higher being one who created all, then do you think we could even comprehend it in any form or way? i believe in something bigger then us.

I responded much like this.
I totally get ya man, the sort of the half truths and whole lies. I understand that completely. Its part of the church fault and part of the peoples fault. I hate the idea of prosperity preaching. I"m not into condemning every either. There has to be a balance. I hate to say this but alot of people go to church today for the wrong reasons. They want to hear a good message, of wealth and success. The truth is being in any type of faith like really truly believing in it. Is harder than it looks.

First instance, I am christian but I don't have all the answers, I'm not always happy its a constant struggle of sacrifices. I do feel that you are right on women testimonies.
I think the reason that is because by in the time of Jesus, there was no such thing as a woman preacher. Alot of the bible before Jesus had to do with Jewish traditions.
... See More
I get this one question all the time and until recently through a series of research I didn't know the answer. The question is What happened to the missing years of Jesus. Its a question everybody wants to know right. Well in Jewish tradition form what I understand, it is common for a baby boy to talked about and than his life preaching. The reason why that is because Jewish people really didn't care about the 18 years. To them it wasn't important.
For example Superman: Until the start of Small ville everybody only knew Kent as a superhero and a news reporter. They really didn't discuss his childhood until SMALL VILLE. So in that yes I think the bible is a bit scewed but that's why Jesus came along to shake things up. So people could truly understand and believe without just plain traditions.
Put it this, I'm Italian but it doesn't mean I eat spaghetti for breakfast, lunch and supper and wash it down with a bottle of wine.

He than would respond like this. ya man but like Jesus alone, like the concept of him is very far fetched at best, and they actually have women testaments, they're just in the vaults, still in scroll form. Dunno just a very discussing two cultures to me.


With that I look towards the book of acts to answer his questions.

Acts 2
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost
1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.

5Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? 8Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? 9Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs-we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"

13Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine.[b]"
Peter Addresses the Crowd
14Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17" 'In the last days, God says,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
18Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days,
and they will prophesy.
19I will show wonders in the heaven above
and signs on the earth below,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
20The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.
21And everyone who calls
on the name of the Lord will be saved.'[c]

22"Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men,[d] put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. 25David said about him:
" 'I saw the Lord always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.
26Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;
my body also will live in hope,
27because you will not abandon me to the grave,
nor will you let your Holy One see decay.
28You have made known to me the paths of life;
you will fill me with joy in your presence.'[e]

29"Brothers, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day. 30But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. 31Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ,[f] that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see decay. 32God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 34For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said,
" 'The Lord said to my Lord:
"Sit at my right hand
35until I make your enemies
a footstool for your feet." '[g]

36"Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."

37When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"

38Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."

40With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." 41Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
The Fellowship of the Believers
42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.


Peter Heals the Crippled Beggar
1One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" 5So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.

6Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." 7Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. 8He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. 9When all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Peter Speaks to the Onlookers
11While the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon's Colonnade. 12When Peter saw this, he said to them: "Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? 13The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. 14You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. 15You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. 16By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.

17"Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. 18But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ[a] would suffer. 19Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. 23Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.'[b]

24"Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days. 25And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, 'Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.'[c] 26When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways."






Thursday, January 14, 2010

What Salt & Vinager Chips can teach you- Devotional 94




Lately it's been hard for me to be an example of Christ. Because with STRONG Christian roots, comes complete and utter communication lack, from the world's stand-point. So lately it's be hard for me to exemplify what being a Christian is supposed to be about. Now the troubles can range from anything, whether your having a difficult problem with something, depression, or just stress. The point being you can get wrapped up into so many things, that sometimes you loose sight of the fact, of who you are really representing.
I'm fortunate enough that through my difficulties The Lord has always been there to pull me out of the fire, before I go to far. So before you react to the world, I say this saying a lot but I am coming to realize it that it is true. Everything is alright with your eyes on Christ. To represent Christ, you have to remember to be SALT and Light to the world.

Matthew 5:13-16 (New International Version)

Salt and Light
13"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.

14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.



Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Legendary Faces leave a legacy with their words. Devotional 93






Throughout history there has been people of great influence that can influence the world with what they say. Whether it be a celebrity, a rapper, a politician, spokesman. Emienm was a rapper of great influence to hundreds of thousands.
Malcolm X , and Muhammad Ali used their words wisely to stand up for what they believe in. But what happens to a society when people say what they don't want to hear?
In the movie Ali listen to Will Smith as he plays the role of the greatest boxer the world has ever seen. Watch how the law reacts.



What do you think , is he speech justified?
Yes/No/Maybe so?
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What about when it comes to rapper Emienm , what comes to mind when you think of him. Is it his brilliant use of the way he uses the media for his own popularity and then proceeds to bash it , within his songs. People and fans alike eat it up. But why? Do they fully understand what he is saying to them?





The point of this devotional is for you decide what legacy your going to leave with your words.

James 3:9-12 (New International Version)

9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11Can both fresh water and salt[a] water flow from the same spring? 12My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

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Everything's alright with your eyes on Christ
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Monday, January 11, 2010

Like Gym rat John - Devotional 92




This is going to seem very silly, but I have pictured myself in a ring, fighting for what I believe. This image that I am explining to you is a constant dream that I have. In your dreams you always come out looking like a hero. My dreams are different. Why would I be always dreaming of fighting in the ring? Have the years of watching Sly Stallione as Rocky finally rubbed off on me. Was it just a fantasy.
Was it the all american holmsome image of Hulk Hogan, OR was it John Cema thjat finally got me in the gym? It's true. John was th dude that truly gave me a sense of intensity to get involved in the gym and fitness. Now I have heard all the critics , "You can't your too small. You won't last. I love my dad's response "You won't go far, because you never listened to me."


Thats true. I nver did listen t my dad when he told me to workout and the reason why that is, is because everytime I would train with dad he would turn it into some big chore. So I really didn't hav the aspiratins to me like my father wanted me to be.

Call me crazy , but if your in fitness. Your in fitness because you love it. So in that instance I had to do it on my own.
I had many people come upto me and say my work ethic is insane, because of the physocal challenge that I face everyday in Cerebral Palsy, people are amazed how I don't complain. The truth is, I watched a vodeo of John in the gym, I saw it on YouTube, and from that video, I would decide to be exactly like John, minus the hair dew. Because some people can pull off the shaved head, I'm not one o those guys." But also because of my physical perdiciment that I was in,I wanted to prove to people that anything is possible and in the process, maybe inspire them just like John did for me. I'm not one to get all bible thumpery on you, but I actually did read bible to see what it said about fitness. And I thought after my research was done, ok maybe I'm susposed to really inspire people.


The verse I looked up, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (New International Version)
19Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

That was all the encouragement I needed, so I began to go to the gym. But often when life gets hectic you become busy. Mayb not so much time for the gym. Does that mean you just give it up, NO keep going. A close friend once said to me "Life is not a dress rehersal , you only get one shot. So wouldn't it make sense to put your body in top physical condition so you can enjoy your life and good health?

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Facing the GIANTS - Devotional 91

AFTER


Before

It seems like the topic that God is trying to say to me, is face your giants. Whether its my mom saying to myself don't run from your problems, face them. Or whether its my cousin trying to pump me up to face my problems with my roommates. Regardless , I tried to do everything to avoid them. I ran home like a coward. But you can only run for so long. The problems with my roommates would eat me up inside, I didn't know what to do. My friends told me to pray. But I was avoiding my giants, this would cause my mind to get restless. I had a little encouragement for the word of God. in The story of David facing Goliath, also Max Lucado in his book facing giants. In Lucado's book he talks about how David defeated Goliath, just on the very trust of God.
I also remember one of my childhood heroes "hulking up in the face of adversity."
The best thing for me to do is face the problem with the roommates and trust in God's truth.


1 Samuel 17 (New International Version)

1 Samuel 17
David and Goliath
1 Now the Philistines gathered their forces for war and assembled at Socoh in Judah. They pitched camp at Ephes Dammim, between Socoh and Azekah. 2 Saul and the Israelites assembled and camped in the Valley of Elah and drew up their battle line to meet the Philistines. 3 The Philistines occupied one hill and the Israelites another, with the valley between them.

4 A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp. He was over nine feet [a] tall. 5 He had a bronze helmet on his head and wore a coat of scale armor of bronze weighing five thousand shekels [b] ; 6 on his legs he wore bronze greaves, and a bronze javelin was slung on his back. 7 His spear shaft was like a weaver's rod, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels. [c] His shield bearer went ahead of him.

8 Goliath stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, "Why do you come out and line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not the servants of Saul? Choose a man and have him come down to me. 9 If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your subjects; but if I overcome him and kill him, you will become our subjects and serve us." 10 Then the Philistine said, "This day I defy the ranks of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other." 11 On hearing the Philistine's words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.

12 Now David was the son of an Ephrathite named Jesse, who was from Bethlehem in Judah. Jesse had eight sons, and in Saul's time he was old and well advanced in years. 13 Jesse's three oldest sons had followed Saul to the war: The firstborn was Eliab; the second, Abinadab; and the third, Shammah. 14 David was the youngest. The three oldest followed Saul, 15 but David went back and forth from Saul to tend his father's sheep at Bethlehem.

16 For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening and took his stand.

17 Now Jesse said to his son David, "Take this ephah [d] of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread for your brothers and hurry to their camp. 18 Take along these ten cheeses to the commander of their unit. [e] See how your brothers are and bring back some assurance [f] from them. 19 They are with Saul and all the men of Israel in the Valley of Elah, fighting against the Philistines."

20 Early in the morning David left the flock with a shepherd, loaded up and set out, as Jesse had directed. He reached the camp as the army was going out to its battle positions, shouting the war cry. 21 Israel and the Philistines were drawing up their lines facing each other. 22 David left his things with the keeper of supplies, ran to the battle lines and greeted his brothers. 23 As he was talking with them, Goliath, the Philistine champion from Gath, stepped out from his lines and shouted his usual defiance, and David heard it. 24 When the Israelites saw the man, they all ran from him in great fear.

25 Now the Israelites had been saying, "Do you see how this man keeps coming out? He comes out to defy Israel. The king will give great wealth to the man who kills him. He will also give him his daughter in marriage and will exempt his father's family from taxes in Israel."

26 David asked the men standing near him, "What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?"

27 They repeated to him what they had been saying and told him, "This is what will be done for the man who kills him."

28 When Eliab, David's oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, "Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the desert? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle."

29 "Now what have I done?" said David. "Can't I even speak?" 30 He then turned away to someone else and brought up the same matter, and the men answered him as before. 31 What David said was overheard and reported to Saul, and Saul sent for him.

32 David said to Saul, "Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him."

33 Saul replied, "You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a boy, and he has been a fighting man from his youth."

34 But David said to Saul, "Your servant has been keeping his father's sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, 35 I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. 36 Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. 37 The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine."
Saul said to David, "Go, and the LORD be with you."

38 Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head. 39 David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them.
"I cannot go in these," he said to Saul, "because I am not used to them." So he took them off. 40 Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd's bag and, with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine.

41 Meanwhile, the Philistine, with his shield bearer in front of him, kept coming closer to David. 42 He looked David over and saw that he was only a boy, ruddy and handsome, and he despised him. 43 He said to David, "Am I a dog, that you come at me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 44 "Come here," he said, "and I'll give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!"

45 David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."

48 As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. 49 Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground.

50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

51 David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine's sword and drew it from the scabbard. After he killed him, he cut off his head with the sword.
When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran. 52 Then the men of Israel and Judah surged forward with a shout and pursued the Philistines to the entrance of Gath [g] and to the gates of Ekron. Their dead were strewn along the Shaaraim road to Gath and Ekron. 53 When the Israelites returned from chasing the Philistines, they plundered their camp. 54 David took the Philistine's head and brought it to Jerusalem, and he put the Philistine's weapons in his own tent.

55 As Saul watched David going out to meet the Philistine, he said to Abner, commander of the army, "Abner, whose son is that young man?"
Abner replied, "As surely as you live, O king, I don't know."

56 The king said, "Find out whose son this young man is."

57 As soon as David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner took him and brought him before Saul, with David still holding the Philistine's head.

58 "Whose son are you, young man?" Saul asked him.
David said, "I am the son of your servant Jesse of Bethlehem."













TheBig Picture from a birds eye view - devotional 90




Did you ever get in a argument with somebody only to bring in a third party to resolve the issue? Only to have each person describe their side of the story and the third party that is brought in , just confused more so , than ever. So who does your arbitrary person believe? Well my aunt would explain something to me, that would stick with me. She mentioned in order for a person to see the truth , they need to see the who picture. If you don't see the whole picture, your view of the situation could be having the wrong assumptions. My life is no exception , because it seems like no matter I do, I create controversy. Seeing the big picture is like having a TV that is broken and you want to have a clearer picture. The reason I say this is because during a long standing argument with a person its hard to see what a the two are feuding for. With the end result being a hostile environment.




James 3
Taming the Tongue
1Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check.

3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Bare your cross if you want follow - Devotional 89



When it is so hard to let go, you try everything to get things back to the way things were. This is something I had to learn and it has not come easy to me , to say the least. Bare you cross , to me means to follow Jesus, but to follow Jesus , I would realize before I would be worthy to do that, I would have to deny myself. I'm sure you heard the old saying once in your lifetimes. "Life is not fair." Its true, I'm think I am a bit behind the game, in knowing what Jesus really meant in the instance where he commands his disciples to bare their crosses if they want follow. The truth is when it comes down to it, No one ever really wants to give up their lives and take up the cause for Christ.

Let me briefly explain to you how I came to know about this. I went through 8 months of depression, I felt lonely, lost, confused, tired, tired and oh yeah did I mention I was tired? I was on what humans call autopilot. But as I would soon learn autopilot is only the beginning of a storm. As things got worse for me, I tried everything to look for the next solution or as the addicts call it "a fix." I had an established eating plan, vitamins, herbs, natural foods. I did this because the world eventually get on my nerves, everything would anger me. So I tried a vitamin here, a supplement there it became a continuing process of emotion, confusion and exhaustion.

I read books with only same result. They all had no real impact on me. The only book that really help clear my head was the bible. But there was a problem with me , because I was in depression for so long I had a lot of the faith that made me have strength in God. I quickly came to realize that its not about finding a special supplement to make your life easier, but the word of God and your faith. God asked me to quit operating by the systems of the world, and follow him.

This past summer, I prayed everyday to get closer to God, but I got a little more than I bargained for. I had no idea that a simple prayer to God from me. I should have been more clear. To me this was God's ultimate test to see if I could follow.

So as you begin to pray for God's blessings be sure your ready for what he has in store for you. A.W. Tozer once said; "Before God uses a man , he must first break the man." If you want to follow God be prepared to bare your cross. With that in mind I am reminded that we as Christians have three enemies , The world, Satan , and ourselves.

Mathew 16:22-25

Matthew 16:22-25 (New International Version)

22Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. "Never, Lord!" he said. "This shall never happen to you!"

23Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."

24Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25For whoever wants to save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.

Also:

“[Treasures in Heaven] "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”- Matthew 6:19-21


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"EVERYTHING IS ALRIGHT WITH YOUR EYES ON CHRIST."
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Friday, January 8, 2010

FRIENDLY Faces revealed? Devotional 88



For months I walked a thin red line, figurative and literally. I did my best to fade into the background but it never quite worked out that way. In my life, I seen a tremendous amount of joy sadness, new beginnings and old habits. I have seen people come and go i this world. Some good people some bad, but what I have learned is that we are all on a path where we should be at that point in time. True revelation happened to me when a supposed friend, would leave me out in the cold. In a previous year we become like best friends or something like that. Did I know that this friend was hardcore to the bone, of course I did, but I brushed it off because I had many friends like that back home. The moment that I saw my friend for what they really were, was when I able to see them in the sunlight exposing their mask. It took a while , but the true self of my former friend was revealed. I am reminded of this quote from Nathaniel Harthrone : No man for any considerable period can wear one face to himself and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which may be the true.
Nathaniel Hawthorne I would come to realize the meaning the quote after reading Mathew Hagee's book, Shaken not Shattered. I often watch John Hagee Minsties and CTS programming to gain strength in the Lord. To keep him as the center of my world.
Well browsing the scriptures I came across this one to perfectly explain how people without Christ, view the world as their own personal playground.

Ephesians 5:6-9 (New International Version)

6Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7Therefore do not be partners with them.

8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)

With that I see how conflict of interest can happen very fast, in a fast paced world.

Remember Prayer, in Christ, works, not only that but as a divine creation from God.
Everything will be alright with your eyes on Christ.



Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Why Daddy? - Devotional 87



It seems like this year and the beginning of 210 will be a year for me to overcome things, with the power of God.
The first example of this is too live in this world, with people that aren't Christian. Secondly leading a busy life... Lastly my home life and the way I was raised it came back to all haunt me....
I'm not trying to make my parents look like the enemy , I'm just asking God what he thinks about the whole situation. My parents are the type that get the biblical wires crossed. What do I mean? They go one way on the word, take for instance,


Prov 13:24: "He that spare his rod hate his son: but he that loveth him chastisement him. It seems like that's where the buck stops. Because of misunderstanding they don't understand their form of discipline is actually hurting the child.

Let's take a look at God's word.

Discipline and instruction are integral parts of parenting. Proverbs 13:24 says, “He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.” Children who grow up in undisciplined households feel unwanted and unworthy. They lack direction and self-control, and as they get older they rebel and have little or no respect for any kind of authority, including God's. “Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death” (Proverbs 19:18). At the same time, discipline must be balanced with love, or children may grow up resentful, discouraged, and rebellious (Colossians 3:21). God recognizes that discipline is painful when it is happening (Hebrews 12:11), but if followed by loving instruction, it is remarkably beneficial to the child. “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4).

Yet again, I am not trying to put a bad name to my parents they just have be instructed in a variety of other ways as well. This way proper communication is adhere and children respond kindly, not due to fear, but out of true respect and honour for their fathers and mothers.


Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Testimony











You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.

Joyce's Joy - Devotional 86



Note to self : When depression it no doubt on the mind. When the mind get's to you the biggest lesson I learned is turn to God. No matter how busy you get, take time to slow down.




A Prayer for the Ephesians
14For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15from whom his whole family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.