Here’s The Message!

We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. Now, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destine for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of age understood it, for if they had, they would have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”–the things God has prepared for those who love him–these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. I Corinthians 3:6-10 NIV

The message that we need to hear more than anything else is a message of love, integrity, and honor. That message will drive out the hatred that dwells in the hearts of so many who called themselves the alt-right and white nationalists groups who proclaim to be Christians.

How can they claim to be Christians and hate? They’re not really Christians; they’re religious and use the Bible and Christianity to try to control and dehumanize others.  We are not blind or deaf to the “noise” and chatter that promotes and encourages foul acts of violence against others. We know that trump’s election was a ploy for the white nationalists to put into place their own agenda of denying anyone who is brown or black the privileges and rights that prevail in this country.

They want to “purify” the country, by eliminating other cultures and groups of people to thrive here. This is no different that other countries trying to “purify” their countries by killing off those who are not like them. Now, they want to decry foul against affirmative action claiming rural white Americans have an opioid problem because of it.

There is no sane rationale for any white person to claim “discrimination” in this country when they have had opportunities denied to people of color and various ethnicities for centuries. The discrimination claims are biased and steeped in racism as depicted by the racist Jeff Sessions.

So, if the message is not love–unconditionally–all the nationalists and alt-right groups can expect to never know what God’s plans are for them other than to know, they are doomed because of their hatred of all God created.

For those who think this post is harsh; it is and it is because of love that I speak truth to the devil so all of his minions will know–I’m onto them and so are many others. We will not be silent and allow hatred to reign in this country. This is America and as Americans, we will fight for the rights of all Americans and beat down racist discriminatory acts against people of all races. And for the WH idiot to say, “the White House is a dump” demonstrates his lack of respect for the government and institutions that keep this country great. He should leave with no further comment and go back to his tower, and suck on his hatred away from other human beings.

We are the true Christians–defending the rights of the poor, needy and vulnerable and we do not act out of religious piety that serves no purpose. All human beings are God’s creation, and no one has a right to dehumanize another. We will remove the hatred from the White House and all those in positions appointed by the hater–influenced by Bannon and Miller.

And when we do, we will set the stage for the renewal of a mindset that cares about people; especially if I’m elected president in 2020. Watch out haters! A change is coming in the BlueWave Tsunami in 2018 and beyond. We care about all of God’s people, not just some.

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Lessons Learned!

Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you. Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For through wisdom your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer. Proverbs 9:7-12 NIV

#Politics Alert

For the past two days, I have–as per my habit–scrolled through various media articles and commented on those I thought warranted a comment. It is always my intent to simply comment “to the article” and I never comment on what another poster has said–unless they reply to me directly.

Herein lies the challenge–for them and me. It would appear that many who post to Internet articles feel they are the only ones entitled to an opinion and they repeatedly end up calling people names when asked to produce verification of what they said. Here’s an example to a comment I wrote regarding the use of the song, “We Are The Champions” on CNN 7/19/16.

Mary Hall-RayfordNot surprising–he thinks he can get away with anything. After all, he hijacked the GOP in order to pursue his own attention-getting agenda that’s all about him!

Tony GuidrozWell Hilary knows that she will get away with everything, including murder, illegally sending classified information, and perjury. You let me know when Donald gets on that level.

Mary Hall-RayfordTony Guidroz Who did Hillary murder? I must have missed that trial!

Tony GuidrozThose are FACTS.

Mary Hall-RayfordTony Guidroz You didn’t provide any facts–just more speculation and obscure biased opinion. Who did she murder and when was the trial held? Just the facts, please!

Tony GuidrozLet me guess you are denying all those others or no? I gave you all facts that you can look up yourself. You seem pretty lazy not wanting to do any research for yourself. Typical.

Mary Hall-RayfordTony Guidroz Actually, you gave me NO FACTS–just innuendo–there is a difference. I usually research information before I proffer an opinion–about anything. Who did she murder and when was the trial? That is factual information and unless you can prove it–with documentation–you might want to take a nap and then wake up from your delusional world.

Tony GuidrozI told you. Where are your factual rebuttals for the FACT that she is a thief, that she sent classified information illegally, and that she committed perjury? All things that are on video. As for the murderer part, she didn’t pull the trigger, but she may as well have. Oh and she was investigated for it. She’s not in prison for the same reason that she’s not in prison for the email scandal. She is apparently above the law.

Tony GuidrozShe sat there and lied to Congress on 2 separate occasions, about 2 separate cases. So sad that you defend a woman who takes money and sympathizes with the very people that view women as property. She belittled and berated women that were sexually abused by her sex crazed husband. She calls black men super predators, yet she has your support. Lmao. Who’s the delusional one?

Marvel Amber John If she was this bad she should be behind bars. She’s not.. Your point? No wait! Don’t tell me.

Mary Hall-Rayford Tony Guidroz I didn’t say one word about anything other than your allegation that she had committed murder. None of what you just spewed provides any factual information of your allegation. But I won’t belabor the point that you keep straying away from. You’re entitled to your delusions and as for the other allegations that I’m defending her–where did I say that or did you just assume that? Not much for facts are you? Just spewing bigotry, I guess–is a way to spend your time. Have a wonderful day!

My point to titling this post, “Lessons Learned” is that even though I tried to end the conversation with calm, it escalated into something far more sinister than needed to be.

While I realize every person on the planet has already concluded who their political candidate is, I am extremely cautious about making accusations about anyone–without concrete evidence. I have to admit, I seldom experience the kind of hatred for one person that I’ve seen lately about Hillary (in the past about Obama simply because of his skin color). People have criticized everything about the woman–from the clothes she wears to her husbands past indiscretions and everything in between and beyond.

Who has never committed a stupid act in their life? Who has never made mistakes? As I pointed out to several people on that thread yesterday, I usually research information before I speak on it and can and have provided links to support what I say. But the lesson I have learned is that no matter what you say to some people–they go into attack mode and never recover from it. At that point–it is wiser to stop talking to them–even though they won’t stop.

I’m not afraid of controversy and I don’t back down from anyone attempting to bully or intimidate me–I know who I am and don’t have to prove that to anyone. I am concerned about the level of hate that people don’t have a problem displaying and how all that hatred impacts the challenges we see on a daily basis.

I encourage substantive discussion about issues I care strongly about, but I refuse to be embroiled in stupidity–where what we say, matters not. While I can respect a differing opinion by anyone, that courtesy is not often reciprocated, but it won’t stop me.

When The Lord speaks to my heart, I will respond and obey. It does not matter if people accept what is said; what matters is my obedience and therefore, I will continue to obey God for He is the only one who deserves my praise. Politicians–come and go--and in the end, only what we do for Christ will have any lasting impact in our society.

Hiding in God, Not Behind Him!

Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I entrust my life. Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in You. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; may Your good Spirit lead me on level ground. (Psalm 143:8-10 NIV–emphasis mine)

There is such a great difference between hiding in something rather than hiding behind something. I was reminded of an Internet exchange with someone who accused me of hiding “my bigotry behind my religion.” This was in response to an article that I, once again, stated an obvious truth, that many did not want to accept. But when asked a question about who he would allow to mentor his high school, if he had one, Joshua Jordan never responded. Instead, I was told I was hateful and hiding behind religion.

However, I don’t see speaking God’s Truth as hiding behind religion; especially when I’m not religious, but in relationship with Him. That’s the difference that many doubters and unbelievers have not figured out yet. When we’re “in” relationship with God, we don’t need to hide behind anything for He speaks to our hearts and we hear and obey. In another passage of The Word David tells God, “Your Word have I hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You.” If the Word is hidden within us, we have no need to hide behind anyone or anything. For when we open our mouths to speak truth, The Word should bubble up in us and spring forth like that fountain of living water we were told we would be.

I do recognize the “hater” tactic employed by any who disagree with God and promote living in opposition to His Word. They are always attempting to put us on the defensive because they cannot stand our offensive stance in The Word. Let me try putting this another way. If we are hidden in a tree and our enemies search for us, they will not see us–they will only see the tree. When children play “hide-and-seek” they usually hide behind other things and are seen, or found eventually because they are not completely hidden. In the tree, we are completely covered; Behind the tree, we can be caught. So, I’d rather be hiding in God so the only person people see is God, than hiding behind Him. Glory to His name!

Paul tells us, “Let this mind be “in” you that is also in Christ Jesus. Notice, he didn’t say, “let this mind be “behind” you. We are to abide in Him–live in His Word so when people see us, they see Him and not us. Are we capable of hiding in Him, forgetting about ourselves, wanting others to see only Him and not us?

I believe we can hide in Him and we demonstrate that when we boldly, courageously, speak God’s Word no matter how many times we are attacked for our boldness in Him. The haters really hate themselves for they have nothing or anyone in whom they can completely trust or hide themselves in–except what the enemy feeds them–hatred of all who disagree with them. That is so sad on so many levels that my heart hurts for them. With all of the love God has for everyone willing to receive Him and His purpose for our lives, there should be no room on earth for hate or haters of any kind. And this is why, we can rise every morning, knowing how much we’re loved by God, and keep going–doing His Will.

Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray for all those who are hurting because they have not received Your love. I ask You to fill them to overflowing, washing away hate and creating in all a desire to hide in You, trusting You completely, and not hiding behind anger, frustration, and hatred of anyone who promotes You and Your love. Cut  away the anger and bitterness that have embedded themselves through experiences with those who did not know You and heal and save them, now. Amen!

Blessed When Others Insult Us Because of Our Faith In God!

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12 NIV)

If there was ever a time many believers needed affirmation to stand on their faith in God while saying what He says, this is it. This is a reminder from Jesus that when we choose to live a Godly life–in obedience to God’s Word–that some will insult, belittle, persecute, and demean our faith with their insults, but rejoice! If the insults are a result of stance in our faith, we are blessed!

What we have to realize in our daily walk with Christ is that the enemy rises up at every turn–influencing the thoughts of those who refuse to submit to God and they are in attack mode–especially when we say what God says about sin. Satan doesn’t want us to influence anyone in his army to stop living in sin so he uses those in his army to attack those of us are bold and courageous–saying what God says–and refusing to budge in our position--not caving to the misnomer of being “politically correct” in our conversations about sin.

Who came up with the notion or concept of being “politically correct?” A soldier in the army of evil will do anything to manipulate and deceive people under the guise of inclusion and half-truths. Well–a half-truth is a whole lie and we all know how politicians lie and deceive to get what they want. So, the term–politically correct–is actually an oxymoron since politicians are seldom correct about much of anything in their quest to accomplish their personal agendas.

How does a personal agenda benefit the masses? It doesn’t. It is personal–designed for an individual’s achievement and seldom has any benefit for anyone other than the one who uses, abuses, and lies their way to a political appointment.

But for those of us who know the truth and that nothing is ever correct about saying sin is right in any form, know that when we are insulted by others, we are blessed by God. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather have God’s blessings than the approval of the masses who have neither heaven or hell for me.

Be bold and very courageous in your faith stance and preach The Word, in season and out of season, whether people want to hear it or not–say what God says about everything. If there are those who will not receive what you have to say–shake the dust from your feet, smile, thank them and keep it moving.

We are not responsible for people receiving what we have to say, but we are held accountable for whether or not we say what God says. Say what He says in spite of the insults and know you are blessed by God.

When you get weary of the insults and need a reminder of who you are in Christ–check out this book myBook.to/IAMALLTHAT  and stand firm in the love of God, knowing we are all that God says we are.

An Open Letter!

Dear Hater Without A Reason:
I’ve heard that you don’t like me and never did. I also understand that you spend a great deal of time trying to persuade others to hate me as well. That’s not a problem for me, but I’d like to know how you can have such feelings for me, when you don’t even know me.

What did I ever do to you? What did I ever say to you that stirred such hatred?
Is your distaste of me because I have a brain and use it to amass knowledge and to create wonders with words?
Is your distaste of me because I am health conscious and care about how I look and feel?
Is your distaste of me because I’m not impressed with you?
Is your distaste of me because I am not dependent upon your limited knowledge?
Is your distaste of me because I know who I am in Christ and you’re still trying to figure it out?
Is your distaste of me because I remind you that you are not me?
Is your distaste of me because nothing you ever do will change who I am or what I’m capable of doing?
Is your distaste of me because I know how to love, unconditionally, even those who hate me and you don’t?

I am who I am because God determined it and I am living it, to His glory.

Are you living life to His glory? If that’s true, you don’t have room in your life to hold onto hatred towards me when I’ve done nothing to you or said anything about you or to you to warrant such strong emotion. If not true, then perhaps, you may need to reexamine your life and understand your own shortcomings before trying to lay them on someone else and ask God to help you overcome them.

Love,
The Object Of Your Distaste

Simpleton or Fool?

“How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?” (Proverbs 1:22 NIV)

Though many may think the Proverbs have no relevance for us today in contemporary society, they are rich in wisdom and only a fool would ignore the implications. The same snares and pitfalls that doomed men and women during Solomon’s time are still snaring and dooming people today.

From the beginning, God uses Solomon to guide us-with nuggets of wisdom that are relevant for any era. Why Solomon? When Solomon became King of Israel, God granted him anything he asked for and Solomon asked for “wisdom” to govern the people. God was so pleased with Solomon’s request that He granted him wisdom and gave him riches because he demonstrated that material wealth was not his primary concern.

There are some who say that many of the Proverbs are Chinese in origin and the writers of the bible are in error. Here’s a thought. If wisdom is wisdom–no matter the source–should we refute or negate it’s importance? I think not. Wisdom is the key to creativity and it is not restricted by any types of limits–we simply have to “receive” it. Everything that mankind has made is the result of the wisdom endowed by God that stirs up the creativity that resides within all of us. Some of use the gift more than others, but that is a choice we all make.

So who are the simple? Those who have closed minds and are foolish (according to Strong’s translation from the Hebrew). They have no desire to seek wisdom because they are happy with what little they have. (Hence the origin of the expression–“Ignorance is bliss.”)

The fools (and this has been repeated through the Proverbs) scorn wisdom and knowledge and make fun of people who demonstrate having knowledge and exercising wisdom in all things. When people do not understand certain things, their immediate reaction is to refute or negate its relevance or importance. If they cannot handle the fact that others have more knowledge than they or exercise wisdom before making decisions when they don’t, they tend to get upset with the other person–simply because they do not understand.

I believe (you don’t have to believe the same) that one of the reasons James tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God for wisdom and He gives liberally (in abundance), without condemnation or chastisement. I’m sure James remembered what happened with Solomon and understood the importance of our exercising our faith–tempered with wisdom.

If a person chooses to be a simpleton or a fool–that is their prerogative–let them remain in that state. However, if that position is a choice, please stop putting down others for making the choice to be wise–gathering knowledge and learning how to use it to the glory of God.

We choose what we do with what God has given us. He has given us all the same opportunity to do great things if we would simply obey His Word and become “doers of The Word and not just hearers of The Word.”

Lord, help us today to always seek You first in all that we do so that You get the glory and we have a testimony about how good You are.

Stay in the Fight!

When trouble comes your way

Do you play dead or stay in the fight?

To see just how victorious you will be

Determination, passion, yeah that’s the key

To success—achieving your dreams no matter

What others think or how it may seem,

This is your time, no slacking, doubting

Your claim to your name being bounced

Around—flying here and there—in the minds

Of all who can and will do something about

This crazy carousel ride—careening through the night

Almost tossing you to the ground, but holding on

With all your might—you make it to the end and discover

You were right all along; this could be a song of

Deliverance, patience, fortitude, and might bringing

Justice and victory closer, just within sight

Of the naysayers so they can see, just how grand

Life is when you stay in the fight!

And the Big Deal is…?

Why have people made an issue of Beyonce saving her voice during the Presidential Inauguration?

Is she the first person who ever did not risk their voice in the cold?

Will she be the last person to preserve her voice by using “her own recorded voice”?

Was this an issue that simply made the media go crazy to “ignite ratings”?

Beyonce has a great voice and no one can take that away from her and now, she should be applauded for using “wisdom” to preserve her voice from injury.  Most talented, professionals know and understand this concept and for the “wanna bes”–well, that say’s it all, they complain because they have not yet arrived and probably won’t.  Don’t hate others just because they use wisdom to protect their God-given gift.  Get wisdom, get understanding and be slow to speak about those things you do not understand.