Lost Friends and Lost Sight

Most recently I have found myself on the backside of the mountain. I initially thought that the reason for such experience was to basically deal with my family concerns surrounding my father and the terminal illness he has been battling. At second glance, I realized that my experience is more multi-tasked than that. I now conclude that my desert experience is first in existence because I am Gods child; secondly due to the fact my Father is my hero; thirdly I have friends that I now say “lost friends and lost sight.” I write about the title of this blog because I really care about people and how people perceive each other. We better learn how to allow God to move without our interference; weeping will last for nights and not a night, and joy will be here some morning rather tomorrow morning.

When I think of all the things that matter, I realized that when anyone or anything is pressured by pressure what is on the inside usually flies out into the open. Most people seem to amaze me with how once they are in the tightest of jams, they say or do something to their surprise.

For instance, when I stomp my toe I usually would say “Damn it,” followed by a shit that hurts. But the other day a self examination came upon me through circumstance; when I was flying on my way back from Alabama visiting with my father and our aircraft dropped suddenly in the clouds about 200 feet I called out His wonderful name, Jesus! I guess I am improving, right?

Now I know we use the name Jesus as we use the phrase I love you. It is almost like it has no meaning after a while. The word Jesus can be used as a term to insult someone or make someone feel really good. For instance, “Darrin you are an idiot, Jesus Christ!” or as a term of endearment , “Oh Darrin Babe I love you so much, Jesus Babe, you mean the world to me Boo.” In that last sentence Jesus does not mean the world to the speaker, instead Darrin does although the name of Jesus is used. My point is just because we say the right things do not make us in the His right-eousness. All who name the name of Christ are not His; this brings me to my last of scattered points.

I have been watching friends totally spas over me not being online or even able to talk and visit with them a bit strange; these are the newbie’s as my friends really know and understand process. At any rate some of my new friends and acquaintances have even decided to move on, or question my intentions of our friendship. I often say if we had to sit in a room with a monk or a Buddhist I know who would win that debate.

You see we as Christian do not do well with silence. I recall in radio early on when I was a substitute for some local ministries on the then 92.3 WYCA Christian network radio station, silence was a bad thing. This makes a lot of sense on radio airways as your listeners can’t visualize what you are doing except that they hear what you are saying.

In Church I’ve notice this same attitude towards silence; I have been guilty of this in times past making certain something is going on-- it’s just natural as humans to be busy all the time especially in Western Society. For instance, if no one is speaking and if the spirit isn’t moving and really moving, the music should be playing or a Hallelujah should be pronounced from a far corner. In the more conservative circles of Churches I’ve witness the same thing as people sophisticatedly try to have announcements, anecdotes, dramas from the theatre club, or something to take place to make certain there are not any dead spots where silence prevails.

Maybe while you are sleeping you need something to noise/amuse you to sleep. When you awake maybe you need coffee or something outside of Jesus to get you going; needless to say business and dependence seems to push us on our downward tail spend away from God.

The prophet was looking for God in the world-wind because that is a pretty dramatic introduction and God is dramafied, correct? He also looked for God in other loud forms found in the weather but God was not there; thus God did appear in a still small voice. Whispering is not what most of us are accustomed to. In order to hear a whisper one must be still, quiet, and attentive. Well, I certainly hope that I could hear God if He whispered, don’t you. He said my sheep knows my voice and a stranger we would not follow. I have to be honest, it’s so noisy in my life at times if I don’t get to the dessert I will never hear Him (Jesus) speak, let alone know what He sounds like.

Jesus came into town with screams showered all about Him (Hosanna Hosanna) but He Himself was really calm cool and even laid back, chilling on a donkey; so much so that many said this is not or could not be the King of Kings. Paul said that I did not come with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but I did come with demonstration and power. So I suggest, keep the fete extravaganza for Carnival, Caribana, and Mardi-Gras…But when I need answers, give me Jesus and the sands of the fields.

Today I ask you and some of those who are confused about desert experience a few questions: Have you ever been alone with God? Do you understand what worship is? Jesus walked away to be with God in the garden, all who were with Him fail asleep. Moses went into the mountains to be with God alone, when he returned to the people the erected a golden image; this said Moses was there alone with God at least 2 days…lol ha ah ha. Enoch walked with God and he was no more. Abraham only took Isaac with him to go and worship God alone. The children of Israel were in the desert, but they all would not see the promise land because they murmured; this says to me go by yourself mane for real though! David was out with sheep when Jesse was asked about another son who would eventually be King! Point has been expressed.

What I am saying to all of my “Lost Friends” who feel that one of us have lost meaning or “Lost Sight,” when you are dealing with God you are better off by yourself until He has appointed ones to be in your world for that season.

Nothing is wrong with the meditation of one’s heart…

Love you much,

darrin carter

What Are You Trying 2 Say?

1 Corinthians 13 (The Message)

"1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7 If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn't want what it doesn't have. Love doesn't strut, Doesn't have a swelled head, Doesn't force itself on others, Isn't always "me first," Doesn't fly off the handle, Doesn't keep score of the sins of others, Doesn't revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end."

You can't love me like you say if you keep records of my wrong doing, always looking back at past failures, flying off the chain when I disappoint you or let you down, and endlessly forcing your wells upon me.

Many of us try to distinguish God’s love from the way of man. But if you really want to know God’s love, then look at Jesus actions! Love is not love until you give it away…wait hold up, and someone has to receive it folks. I know we don’t think of that side of love.

Can I declare that I’m patient, yet have not one person to testify about the patience that Darrin Carter demonstrated to another? Understand this, fruit is essential.

One must not just repent, but must also bring fruits of repentance.

Matthew 3:7-10 7-10When John realized that a lot of Pharisees and Sadducees were showing up for a baptismal experience because it was becoming the popular thing to do, he exploded: "Brood of snakes! What do you think you're doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskin’s is going to make any difference? It's your life that must change, not your skin! And don't think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as father. Being a descendant of Abraham is neither here nor there. Descendants of Abraham are a dime a dozen. What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? Because if it's deadwood, it goes on the fire.

One must not only hear the Word, but must also be doers.

James 1:22-24 22-24Don't fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don't act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like.

One must not only profess that Jesus Christ is Lord, but must show to everyone by their lifestyles.

John13:34,35 34-35"Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other."

When you say you love me, I see your mouth moving, but you aint saying nuttin--aint nuttin coming out…

Love and peace/darrin carter

I need a Woman!

John 15:12-14 (The Message)

11-15"I've told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I'm no longer calling you servants because servants don't understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I've named you friends because I've let you in on everything I've heard from the Father.

1 John 4:7; 1 John 4:8 (The Message)7-10My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love doesn't know the first thing about God, because God is love—so you can't know him if you don't love. This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about—not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they've done to our relationship with God.

Today if you are seeking a relationship with a man or a woman let me be clear to inform you that it is impossible if you are not an imitator of God’s love. We have to get over this idea of loving “because of.” Do you recall folks in your life who loved you when all was well but God forbid if you ever made a mistake? What about when you just had a difference of opinion, or frankly just piss them off? It’s funny how all that love is suddenly changed into a Cliché huh? It reminds me of an old song that had a hook that says, “You abandoned me, love don’t live here anymore.”

As I mature in Christ I am learning how to love like He loves. Today I strive to love with that “in spite of love.” In spite of kind of love means I will cover you when you are wrong rather than judge you. In spite of love in the Greek translation would be “Agape,” which is to say unconditional love. Yeah it’s easy to love someone who gets it correct by your standard all the time, but can you love your enemy, your unbelieving spouse, the one that hurts you on a regular without hope of change in sight?

I can hear the naysayers saying Darrin Carter it sounds good, but you don’t know what they did to me. I would say you are correct, but let me ask. Did they nail you to a tree; accuse you of a wrong that you were not guilty of and sentence you to die as a criminal? Did they embarrass you beyond measure after beating you all night long? Did they snatch your hair from your head and face just to prove you are worthless? Did they then reject your gift of forgiveness for their own sins and faults? Lastly, did they spit upon you and laughed as they watch you take your last breath? Probably not because you are reading this blog! You may feel like you are dead but I assure you it’s the shadow of death but not death.

My description above is a summary of how we handle Christ. Today I thank Love for loving me! We did not have any better character than those who mocked Christ on that day He gave His all. I promise you, Love came once and love can come again. When you get your love life together with the Father, I promise that your love life will get alright with man or woman; first God, then man/woman.

If you listen to the Spirit touching and moving on your heart, you can forgive and live. You can cause you dessert to be wet like an oasis! I found Love or Love found me, but it was only because I had a heart ready to speak and ears prepared to listen. Today is a good day, not because I am not in difficult times, but because I have been captured in love. I am not afraid of this feeling and frankly I am quite satisfied with it. I encourage you to only trust Him and know-- you had a debt you could not pay, and He paid a debt He did not owe…

Love Him and watch He love you back with an award consisting of that man or that woman. He did it for me and I know he can do it again.


Darrin Carter

Check out my Slide Show!

How Low Can You Go

As much as I would like to admit that I understand, know, and that I have arrived— I realize that I am still lost as to how humble one can become to match Christ Love. If you are like me, you probably find yourself happy and then disappointed. It's the common ebb and flow called life; especially if you have tendencies to be tripping, blessing yo-self, and making a way when God is taken too long. Some can relate to my previous phrase, while others dabble within their level of confidence — to the latter individual I say keep on living cousin...:

Now you are invited to come on a journey with me as I explore a truth that can assist an appreciation for the longing to become selfless, while accepting you will never reach this goal—yet it is better to die trying then not to try at all.

How many of you recall the idea, "I would rather believe in Christ and die to only discover that there is no heaven and hell, then to die only to discover that there is, but I have done nothing to prepare? Exactly.

1 Corinthians 15:9 NIV

"For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God."

After reading a passage like that I can easily conclude that Paul finally arrived, but in actuality the Apostle just begun. This reminds me of my first mission trip to Africa. I over packed clothes, brought along food, and would you believe packed water like no one's business. I had camcorders, cameras, and even favorite nonperishable snacks. During a layover in Europe I so wanted to check on my goodies as they were somewhat of my international security called "Comfort Zone." Little did I know that all of these luxuries were not helpful; instead to my surprise concealed ignorance about missions served as a hindrance.


Understand that a chefs last meal that he/she prepared, will not taste as poor as the first meal prepared by junior culinary skills. Hopefully, you are learning each time you encounter a task that "better" is calling out to you— except, you and I often settled for OUR "perfection" trapped in our own minds.


A few years matured in Missions I can say now I would travel with NO water, NO food, and very little clothing; after all I am there to serve and not to be served. When I switch from one aircraft to another, I have my entire luggage with me as I don't check in any bags if possible. This prevents me from having lost or stolen items, which could potentially frustrate the grace to serve.

Apostle Paul dared to grow as we find that he considered himself the least of 12, but as he increased in the knowledge of God he also increased in the knowledge of man finding himself not meeting the mark.

Ephesians 3:8 NIV

"Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,.."

Years after Apostle Paul made his statement about being the least of the Apostles, he managed to get lower. The above Ephesians quote from Paul denotes that although he found humility in expression to the Corinthians, by the time he reached those in Ephesus he was still digging to become a better slave of the Lord.

Yeah I am an ordained-licensed-minister —but still not there yet. I am also a believer who will and has traveled the globe for Jesus Christ —so, now what? I work for a trade association who diligently provide human services for those with mental illnesses and addictions —I am still not humble enough. I don't profit from my music career of CD's or videos —but standing beside Gods grace I am still not selfless enough. When it's all said and done the goal is transparency; we wait for the day that we can say earnestly "not I but the Christ that lives in me."

Yes I still get angry. Still have to deny my flesh; at times I don't want to even trust God. Although, I have come a long way… wait, stop right there. This is the key to winning. Once you have momentum to achieve you will continue to add victories to your life on the road to selflessness. This is why we persevere and find joy in the ebb and flow of our self inflicted thoughtlessness coupled with madd selfishness.

As believers we count, but I say we shouldn't. The scripture says if the Lord marks our transgression, who could stand? What is the point of counting when it means nothing in the end? Jesus explains to his disciples to forgive 70 times 70 in a day when one offends us. Why? Jesus was introducing the idea of selflessness and hopefully confuses our wisdom enough that we no longer try to impress Him with acts.

Do you recall the parable of those who worked all day being frustrated about getting the same pay as those who arrived one hour prior to quitting time? Matthew 20:8-10 tells of this parable to help us understand that our mathematics are not aligned with God's grace. We simply can't comprehend the height, depth, breath, and substantial love the god has for us who believe and those of us who are yet to believe!

How often are we forgiven? No really how often do we repent; how often should we repent? You are correct if you say we are forgiven each time we ask for forgiveness. So why do we hold grudges? And why do we insist that our pain is greater than those hands that were pierced with industrial size nails that we used to hold in place the railroad tracks?

I use the Metro to travel to and from work you all and without fail each time I am on the plateform waiting for the train I always find myself looking at the nails which holds the tracks in place. These nails are larg and the thought of breaking through my hand both look and imaginbly feel so painful. I can't stand on the platform without thinking of how did his hands become so strong to hold the nails, because the nails could not hold him. When I think about what those hands had gone through so that I could lift mine in worship to the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords!

It's not fair, but it works in our favor! We should be persecuted, but God sent His son instead. We ought to be led before the slaughter as guilty; instead Jesus did that for us. We have no real reason to turn away from God, yet with His love He attracts us back to Himself.

1 Timothy 1:15 NIV

"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst."

Now Paul is near death and his ministry is about to come to its close. His words still ring in my ears as if I was there. It's easy to breeze by such powerful voice if we are not listening for utterance from God. I can't believe how this man Paul found his way to nothingness. I contend that it would be both proper and logical to infer that if Paul did not soon die, he would have discovered more reasons to decrease.

Don't be discouraged as you look in retrospect. Take joy in the fact that you can get low. Take joy knowing that although it seems like you are already to the ground; I promise it's more because of a beat-down rather than a fall-down.

I encourage you to worship Him as you read these last lines. Summons your heart to His righteous court and demand of your life, how low are you prepared to go? Christ gave up His Glory, lived in this hostile environment for 33 years— which is a long time when you are away from home, went to the cross, then to the grave, to hell, back to earth, and now sits at the right hand of God- waiting for you and me to die that He may live!

With love,

Darrin Carter

On The Elevator - Remind Me of Chance

I got on the elevator at work about an hour ago and bumped into this guy that I see from time to time. He said Happy New Year Brotha? I said same to you. He then asked, "Did you do anything interesting?" Before I could even think about it I said brother I made it. He stared at me with hesitation and said, "That is really interesting" (looking really strange and hesitant). I further explained to him that I am so glad to be here (in 08) that I am somewhat beside myself.

As I was exiting the elevator he continued to stare and looked as if he was just hit with a reality that we all need every now and then! All the whistles are put away. The confetti is cleaned up and flushed. Some of you partied like rock star, while other's thanked God and shouted the welcoming of the New Year in.

My question is, have we forgotten about how wonderful it is to see this brand new year only a few weeks in to it? Top stories such as B Obama win in Iowa, New Hampshire Caucus, Redskins, etc… can really cause us to forget just like that.

I have a folks in my family who did not make it to see 2008 (my grandmother aka my mom- RIP); those who have deformities (my maternal mother); those with drug and alcohol addictions and the likes; each time I reflect on these lives whom I love very much I'm reminded that I am free from all of these issues of death, sickness, and dis-ease. The next thing that happens after my moments of reflection is the Spirit of Praise overwhelms me, not in a shout you'll but in action!

I know this may seem taboo to some and I hear your questions already such as, how can one get excited when their own mother has a born deformity plus their Big Momma dead you'll? My question is, why not get excited and rejoice and again I say rejoice! My mother tells me often, "I am glad you were not born with this disorder," My grandmother would say to me Darrin preach His words! And this is why I go to the nations, number one I can and number two I am thankful.

So we as Christians do not behave as the Mormon, Jehovah Witness, or the Catholic and give because we attempt to earn salvation or points with God; instead we give because we have salvation!

In 08 I dare you to still be saying in March Happy New Year! Say it to someone in June -Happy New Year! You will be threatening yourself to be institutionalized because that fact of the matter is, just as sure as children rejoiced over their gifts for Christmas, by time school returns the excitement wears off.

Don't forget there is nothing better than to have chance. 2008- If you are reading this, you are included in the many names that have that forever fleeing time called second, third, and God only knows how many chances we have…

Clarity Disclaimer --in case you don't know:

Jehovah Witnesses: I care about their souls seriously. My dad is an Elder of the Watch Tower Society and has been for over 25 years. He is individually responsible for planting many, many Kingdom Halls throughout Central America and Asia.

Mormons: My son plays basketball for one of the Maryland Mormon groups each summer and these folks over there are really nice people with really big hearts for youth. I enjoy these people each time we hang out.

Catholics: I attended Catholics schools for all of my first schooling years, plus my Undergraduate Degree is from a private Catholic University with monks and all. Catholics provide most of our hospitals, schools, and humanitarian aid throughout the world and as for Christians, no other organization on the books gives more services then the Catholic denomination.

My point is narrow and I think you understand.

Love/darrin carter

Meditation of Heart

I visited one church a few months ago and to my amazement the Pastor appeared not to have experience in leading an unbeliever to the Lord. I was thinking to myself here is a sister that wants Jesus but no one capable of leading her to Him? The call to salvation was made and she began to walk to the front of the sanctuary, I immediately stood to my feet and walked to the back of the Church - face to the wall where I cried with joy and thanksgiving (without causing confusion in this conservative gathering.)

As I stood there with my back to everyone I was waiting for the famous "sinners prayer" to begin. I only heard things like, "oh this is so wonderful", "come on you'll give God a praise," and the repetition of like phrasings. Then out of nowhere the organ player started to make the organ scream, the bass player joined in, and then the ever loud drums began to clang in my ear. People were dancing and shouting and that was it.

After the church service concluded I was thinking ok, now a team will come and get this person and take her to the back office space for refreshments, and provide her with a real explanation of salvation, plus pray with her. NOT!

This lady was still in tears. I am thinking, how can the service end like this - this lady have not given her life yet to the Lord. Just when I thought the service was done everyone was asked in the spirit of giving to prepare an offering. The Pastor asked everyone to follow the ushers as they would provide direction for a speedy process. We began to walk around towards the front of the sanctuary to give in the offering. As I approach where she was standing, I was listening intently for the Lord to give me something to say. After the offering was collected, I thought to myself how I will connect with her? At once the Pastor started with the benediction and prayer for the offering.

Immediately after the closing prayer this lady and I eyes met. I wanted to say something to her so bad but I did not receive a green light, I felt empty yet anxious. Then the Pastor announced for all the visitors to lift their right hand. I and a few others raised our hands including her. The Pastor welcomed us to come again and then dismissed the congregation saying hug and love somebody before you leave. I leaped in my heart saying YES this is my chance to connect with her.

I hugged several people touching each one with love, but trying desperately to reach her not sure of what I would even do once we connected. Then, there she stood in front of me; I wanted to wiz her off of her feet and welcome her as a sister that I have missed all of my life. Yeah that would have freaked her out right – not to mention the conservatism that I notice in this church. But when I stood in her presence, I looked in her eyes and Jesus was staring at me. Still tears were in the wells of her eyes and I began to smile and cry saying welcome to my family and may God keep you all of your days. We hugged and I left out very excited but still somewhat confused.

I walked briskly; crossing the parking lot weaving in and out of parked cars trying to reach my car to talk with God about this experience. I unlocked the door, sat down, turned the ignition, and for a while rested there thinking. I said in my heart to the Lord - what was that Daddy? The Lord replied to me, do you recall the thief on the cross? I said yes Papa. He said, do you recall what I told him? I said yes Papa. He said the same with this one and millions of others. I see the sinner heart without the restating of a "sinner prayer." The Spirit of God continued to deal with me saying often times the "sinner prayer," misses the point and is long and repetitive, plagued by decorative words, and results in a meaningless ritual.

I love God so much today and I hope you know how much He loves you.

Luke 23:42-44 ESV
42And he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." 43And he said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

1 Peter 3:1-3 NKJ 1 Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, 2 when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear. 3 Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—

Darrin Carter

MySpace- Our Space- His Space!!!!!

Now brother, since I have your attention. Whatever do you mean? Is it a MySpace thing or do you find it totally useless? What? Tell me, I am all ears…
I just want to know, why you have not signed my guestbook. I will be totally honest.

I am not comfortable as a minister of Gods power to only have females on my page sending their love on a regular. I go out of my way to embrace brothers for real reasons, first I love God and women, but I aint trying to get caught up. Now, I don’t want to speak on it but I believe I will.

We owe each other when it comes to accountability. I am not on MySpace to be an internet Player, Casanova, and whore. Nor do I plan on befriending only women as networking partner’s etc- with a veil of Christianity to hide me. But I will not continue such a page unless I can connect with some men! I am not trying to enlarge my circle with women, been there done that. I am either here to minister to all or none.

Not trying to be the next gossip on MySpace, nor am I trying to be the next brother who has the next sister, to call me her big brother-yet she has some alternate motives, while I may have a weak heart to tell my flesh NO!

Hear me if you love Christ. I need you to be who you say you are, be your “Brother’s Keeper.”

This blog does not have anything to do with a darn guestbook. Prophetically I speak to you as a friend and a brother…Be careful.

Men of God…Soldiers…People of the Kingdom of God- Don’t put each other out there like that; we are designed to stand together not alone-- each man/woman on MySpace who profess to be a believer either has or will meet pressure to cross a line. I am not interested in a woman trying to make a connection with me wearing a familiar disguise of Christ; scripture says, …they have a form, but deny the power (anyone who denies the power.) It happened to me and it happens. (This can be applied by both men and women, not just men)

But if we bond like we should, then we can embrace as we ought, not as our flesh often desires.

Now if you are online looking for a wife/husband do your thing, God bless you towards that end. But if you are married, or already engaged- then you should consider yourself blessed because God just helped you with this message you are reading from a stranger. If you have that special one (I do), then there is no such thing as a “special two”- you can forget that Bro. Great things come in pairs but not more than the two of you…When the scripture talked about a threefold cord not easily broken, it was not talking about you, your partner, and your extra!

God has set me free from the things I write about and if you are not careful a new friend can be a new curse. I advise you to first keep it real, and then keep it (your life) before the Lord

I need you, you need me- 4real 4real- we need each other.

Show ya love! darrin carter

Now it’s your turn- If not you, then who?

“I was beginning to see that poverty and racism often went hand- in- hand. And I recognized discrimination for what it was: an assault on God’s creation, and an attack on His plan for equal opportunity. On this issue, I said to myself, believers don’t have an option of being neutral. As followers of Jesus Christ, we have a duty to work for equal opportunity—especially for those who need a break. For Christians, this isn’t a political or social issue; it’s a spiritual matter we can’t ignore. “
Hal Donaldson

Now it’s your turn. Look for someone who needs a real Jesus, not a religious-made- over-pitied-out-jesus. Look for our Lord Jesus, the One who will change lives and effect change through YOU! If you really want to see Him you should go where He would go...

Love/darrin carter

Christians Are Not Dirty Enough For Me?

I have to have this discussion out loud. As I think about New Years Eve and its rapid approach, both Saints and Aints come to my thought. Sinners plan for this party all year long. Saints prepare for an end of year celebration as well. Saints go their way and sinners go their way.

I would like to know frankly, why do the majority of folks I talk to think that sinners are so bad. Sinners ought to sin, just as Christians are suppose to win. I am not advocating for anyone to go to bars, club, or sinful venues, but someone has to go.

Not understanding does not make me stupid, slow, or unintelligent- but I am ignorant if I don’t have knowledge on the subject.

As Christians we are not dirty enough. I recommend that if you accepted the Lord Jesus, then you and I need to make certain venues available for Christ. We don’t go to strip clubs or dance clubs, we don’t hang out at bars or on street corners- yet we are trying to win these folks that hang out in places such as these. It’s somewhat funny when I hear a believer witnessing to another about Jesus. I usually hear, “my Pastor said…” followed by, “you should come to my church, we don’t do that,” followed by, “My Pastor …,” you get the point.

I am ready to see the body of Christ suffer for Christ sake! I am ready to see believers go into darkness and not be tempted. I am ready to see the church become recognized as not the local facility, but the global body. I am ready to see us be no more children tossed about with every wind of doctrine. I am ready for the true and living God to rise in us as the scripture declare.

Ok. If you are not going inside the bar, if you do not want to go to the dance club, if you can only do the Sunday morning shake, then I challenge you to live a little. Go on the dark side! Satan has folks in places that he knows Christian will not frequent. Try speaking with an ungodly man/woman and you will see, you can’t understand him/her and he/she can’t understand you.

Skill is needed when we attempt to win the lost. But Jesus has been on the planet twice. Once born of Virgin Mary, and secondly when He resurrected from the dead. Hallelujah! But wait a minute. I have good news for you. Jesus is coming back again. He is coming one more time - but this time for His Church.

Before Jesus returns please visit the sick, the widow, and the orphan. And by all means, go and see about the sinner- they will die otherwise and live forever in a bed of fire.

I recommend that you go in the darkness and be the light. I can hear questions about this subject and this is one of my answers. Jesus became friends with pimps and ho’s, drunkards and liars, drug dealer and dope users, gansta’s and wangsta’s, murderer’s and terrorist - you name it He did it. Someone said, show me in the bible? I have one better for you, go to the mirror and you will find exactly what Christ did because he did it for you!

If God can marry a backslider, then I can become friends with folks who live in darkness for the express purpose of being relevant enough to lead them to Christ. I can’t preach right now but I sure do feel like it!

If you want one on one training, email me and I will make it happen.

love/darrin carter

Jesus Said Go...

Today I meditate on God’s sovereignty. The first two letters in the word sovereignty spells the word so. The second word I notice is reign. So reign? I often wonder when will the church (Body of Christ) stop looking for the latter rain, and start implementing Christ authority in us.

When I observe the condition of the world, naturally I search for answers from within the church; not the building- the body. But what I mostly see is another production, musical, building erecting ceremony, service, conference, CD release, and on and on- with very little advertisement on things that are bringing none believers to become believers in our everyday life.

I am a little bit more mature now, so please don’t think I feel like ministry activities such as the ones listed above are meaningless or not valuable tools. Nevertheless, I want to share with you that God’s sovereignty is not only over us - it’s also given to us.

Holidays are approaching and I can imagine the toys, dinners, and many acts of kindness being prepared by Christians. Yet I inquire, at the end of the day, as Christ reigns in you- will you reign in others? The scripture says to the disciple of Jesus, whoever sins you retain will be retained, but whoever sins you remit will be remitted. John 20:21-23

Jesus said go! Yes. Go and do what He would do. What am I waiting on to change lives of millions; not on the missions field but during my everyday walk? I encourage you this week to find a unbeliever and share your faith and pray the sinner’s prayer with them- successfully leading them to the Lord. This will revive you, and you will be one of the one’s who did not just live in the earth, you also reigned all while you was here.

I know some of you may be a little rusty. In leading someone to the Lord (believe it or not) many live their entire Christian life with maybe only one or two that they personally led to Christ.

Here are a few pointers. Straight talk, it works. Keep it real. I promise you that you will be received by whomever you approach, if you just keep it real. Leave your bible at home. Jesus did not carry the script everywhere, He had it in His heart. Be honest. And numero uno…Don’t allow your failures to stop you from telling the truth.

If you read this message, then join the challenge. I am asking you to bring four people to the Lord this month. If each of my friends on MySpace did this, we would have over 200 people surrender to Christ for the month of November. If you decide to share this challenge, then there is no telling what we could do. Oh yeah Pastors…leading folks to Christ during your sermon doesn’t count. Lead you primary care physician, your gardener, mechanic, sales person, Aww you get the picture.

Please keep me posted as to your results. If you need some one on one help, write me and I will give you a call if you leave me your telephone number.

Summons a neighbor and command them to reign!

Love/Darrin Carter

Pro-Fess-Ional Christian?

“God bless you,” he said time and again. “Read this, you’ll be glad you did.” He wore black sweats, purple and white tennis shoes and a green windbreaker. He stood in one place rather than pursuing people with an outstretched arm as many street evangelists do.

He handed me a salvation tract. In turn, I told him I was a Christian. He gathered his literature in one hand and gave me a high-five.

“Good to meet you, Brother” he said. “My name is Wayne.”

I admired Wayne’s humility and passion for reaching people for Christ. He wasn’t interested in having his face on Christian television, owning a big title in front of his name, or collecting huge offerings from churches. I even sensed his discomfort when I slapped him on his back and praised his ministry. He was simply grateful for God saving his life, and he wanted to show his appreciation by working for god to reach others. Wayne didn’t own a business card or DVD trumpeting his ministry. He said God hadn’t called him to establish a ministry-business; He had called him to tell others about the Savior’s love. So all he needed was a Bible, some gospel tracts, his testimony, and a genuine smile.

I was thankful God had introduced me to Wayne before I left Seattle. In a few short hours, like an angel delivering a personal message, a total stranger had shown me the difference between a professional Christian and an authentic follower of Christ. Wayne, I decided, didn’t need business cards that bore his name and a lofty title after all. He had “Follower of Jesus” written all over his life.” (Pp. 98, 99)

Taken from Hal Donaldson Midnight in the City- To purchase book please select link to you left.

Proverbs 14:20,21 NIV
20 The poor are despised even by their neighbors, while the rich have many “friends.” 21 It is a sin to belittle one’s neighbor; blessed are those who help the poor.

Health Care

Recently I’ve been battling a health concern. At a glance, I thought my health was not so bad, but shortly after these thoughts of disregard, I made myself set an appointment with my primary care physician. My anxiety levels were low because I expected to receive a great report from my doctor. In addition, I was confident since I had lost at least some weight.

One week passed and I kept my appointment. Dr. Thacker greeted me with her friendly demeanor, and welcomed me back to her office. She checked my weight and proceeded to check my blood pressure. Dr. Thacker compared my stats against my last visit, which I would later find were not all good.

I could sense her relief by the smile that she candidly displayed. Dr. Thacker said to me that I had lost 19 lbs since my last visit. She reached over for the blood pressure instrument and said with assurance, Darrin I am sure you are going to be ok. I was anticipating hearing a positive result from my blood pressure test, but then Dr. Thacker said we need to retest you Darrin. The results from the first test were pretty high. She readjusted the reader on my wrist and we waited for the second result. To both of our surprise, my blood pressure had not gone down at all since my last visit. Could this mean Hypertension? Out of concern, Dr. Thacker ordered a complete blood count and prescribed medication for my high blood pressure.

I now take one tablet daily as a trial for the next 30 days. Dr. Thacker prearranged for me to have 3 refills of this medicine. I was thinking all along, why she would prescribe refills if this were just a trial. Sometimes I worry about my health, but most times I meditate on what I can continue to do to regain control. Nevertheless, I decided that I should continue healthy habits. If you are struggling with a health concern, you should first see a doctor; I am not speaking about Dr. Jesus. Then you need to do what you know can effect change concerning your health.

For Instance, I read my bible or pray everyday. The scripture says that physical exercise is not the chief thing, but rather spiritual. 1Timothy 4:7-9.

Furthermore, my health routine involves eating correctly and exercising. My meal includes large amounts of fruit and veggies. By eating the fruit or vegetables first, I hope to have very little room for unhealthy foods.

I refuse to eat any meal after 6:00 PM. I realize that I can load up a salad to make it feel like a steak. I shop at organic foods stores to buy the best foods available for my body. Even though these foods are expensive that’s the price for healthy living : ( I purchase nondairy milk substitutes such as Almond Breeze. I enjoy the vanilla, chocolate, and the regular flavors.

I jog on a regular basis at different times every other day. I try to keep my body confused so that the same tasks don’t become mundane. Of all the exercises I do, I enjoy running the most. Every other day I jog 3 miles. When I am not running I usually lift weights and do sit-ups. When I feel good I run and lift weights.

Another tip I can offer is from Steve Harvey. I heard Steve say that one should eat for what they are about to do, not what they have done. For instance, if you are about to do a task, based on the task one should consider how much energy is needed. Once this is determined use food for fuel not for pleasure.

God knows I love popcorn. But the truth is, when I go to a cinema I really don’t need food for this task; after all I am mainly sitting. I tend to want food because I see it, not because I need it.

I like this simple tip, because it makes sense. You need gasoline in your car for the distance you are about to travel; we never fill our car after a trip usually we place gas in our vehicles before we travel. By overeating we tend to not burn the fuel/food in our bodies and of course it becomes fat.

I would love to have an exercise partner to join me, but I only have my Ipod. I like my Ipod because it only does what it is designed to do; strict instructions to only play my favorite music…LOL.

It’s good that I exercise alone because I can pray and meditate. I can also be my miserable self physically. Being alone keeps pressure off of me from having to impress anyone. Working out alone I can freely be weak and get strong.

I hope this helps you enough to know that health care is not a government policy issue alone. Each of us is required to take care of our lives.

Carter with a ‘K’

Are You Growing Up or Down?

"Don't give up..... One day I decided to quit... I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality... I wanted to quit my life. I went to the woods to have one last talk with God. 'God', I asked, 'Can you give me one good reason not to quit? 'His answer surprised me... 'Look around', He said. 'Do you see the Fern and the Bamboo?' 'Yes', I replied. 'When I planted the Fern and the Bamboo seeds, I took very goodcare of them. I gave them light. I gave them water. The Fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor. Yet nothing came from the Bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the Bamboo.

In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful. And again, nothing came from the Bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the Bamboo. He said. 'In year three there was still nothing from the Bamboo seed. But I would not quit. In year four, again, there was nothing from the Bamboo seed. I would not quit.' He said. 'Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the Fern it was seemingly small and insignificant...But just 6 months later the Bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall. It had spent the five years growing roots.

Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive. I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle.' He asked me. 'Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots'. 'I would not quit on the Bamboo. I will never quit on you.'

'Don't compare yourself to others.' He said. 'The Bamboo had a different
Purpose than the Fern. Yet they both make the forest beautiful.' 'Your time will come', God said to me. 'You will rise high' 'How high should I rise?' I asked. 'How high will the Bamboo rise?' He asked in return.'As high as it can?' I questioned. 'Yes.' He said, 'Give me glory by rising as high as you can.'

I left the forest and brought back this story. I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you. Never, Never, Never Give up. For the Christian Prayer is not an option but an opportunity. Don't tell the Lord how big the problem is, tell the problem how Great the Lord is!

Heavens door open this morning, God asked me... My CHILD... what can I do
for you?' and I said 'Daddy please protect and bless the one reading this
message. God smiled and answered ... 'request granted ............"

Author Unknown~

The Way Things Appeared Was Good- But Actually, It Was Far From God

When we look at the appearance of something, especially, when we are influenced by a cosmetic society it is easy to overly trust our eyes. The eye is definitely what we use to make out what's before us. However, the scripture encourages its reader to not be concern with what one see, be more concern with the thing(s) we do not see. 2 Co 4:18

I realize, that we humans care a lot about what others think. Where we live, how we live, if we do, or if we don’t; all these questions find passage to how we act or better said, how we react.

These societal pressures often causes one to lie. We may do well in word, only hoping to be accepted by hottest in crowd. Sometimes, I would find myself doing acts of kindness just trying to be acknowledge as a good guy. But one day I read how one could give his life to be burned in a fire, but if that burning was not motivated by love it meant nothing. 1 Co 13:3

We do our best to avoid the appearance of evil in the negative sense, but what about those things that appear good but are actually evil? For instance, the fake smiles we greet each other with at times; the giving a person a ride to church makes some angry, yet they continue to do it; when we loan money until payday next week; all appear good, but if our heart is not correct, we have not accomplish anything for God.

Thoughts, words, and deeds are all placed above the Lord’s fire to be tested- will your works burn, or will they last?

Carter with “K”

I Don't Know What 2 Do- Stop In The Name of Love

When you and I find ourselves in trouble its so easy to run and do something. Some of us believe that if we are busy we are efficient. But to take this one step further even if this is true, efficient may not be effective. The scripture is clear that though mountains are falling around your feet, no harm will come against the people of God Psalm 46.

I know sometimes listening to the fire eat at those things that can be destroyed- one wants to run or make a move. Never mind if the move is upward or not; we just got to get out of the heat. Consider the Hebrew boys who were trapped in the fire; this human oven was cranked up 7 times its normal range. The King had cremation on his mind. These boys willingness to stand on Gods word really pissed their circumstance off (the king). I love how these boys in a foreign land said with confidence “Our God is able,” Daniel 3:17.

As the story reads these guys were bound and tied together; the fire was so hot that those who put these boys in the fire were burn "feeling hot hot hot." Hallelujah! Just when the enemy and your hater come upon you to chew on your bone, they stumble and can’t manage to tackle you. Psalm 27:1-3

All I can say is “Never Scared”… As the light of the world we can say that. But when I hear some of these secular tunes like "Never Scared," by Bone Crusher, I say to my say without Christ- you ought to be. But if you are for Him and the world stands against you- YOU WIN!!! Romans 8:30 & 32 Now bless Him right now because can't nobody do you like Jesus!

Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

When it All Falls Down

I am not speaking of Jericho’s wall, Lauryn Hill, or Donnie McClurkin’s “We Fall Down, but We Get Up” hit song. I am speaking of our decisions to turn our face against God. I am speaking of when we say that our plural way of doing things are more enticing than God’s singular way of delivering us from trouble.

Not long ago I called a Pastor friend and asked to borrow about $2,000.00 – I really needed this money and I was certain they understood that. The first reply I received was, “let me pray about it.” I love this person and they also loved me. I began to realize that I was in trouble for the first time when the reply was, “Let me pray.” When my friend finish praying she came back to me a few days later and said with clear voice - “Brother you are in trouble with God, and I can’t help you- If I give you this money it would be like I never gave you anything at all.”

I have not talked with my friend since that conversation (almost 2yrs ago) but I fully agreed with her then, and I still agree with her now. (Friendship is not based on frequency of communication – we are as tight as ever please believe me!) I understand that I had made a decision to induce sufferings in my life. Now I wanted help but God said not so, you will live this one out.

I remember managing a department store with senior management who was a micro manager. Each day this guy would come in the store, before he said good morning and how are you doing? He would say, “Tell me what is happening?” This man wanted a complete run down of each detail- I swear this would piss me off so much that I eventually quit the job.

Recently I started working in my area of study (social service industry/mental health and addictions) and was blessed to work very close to the Executive Vice President and the President directly. I was sitting across from the Executive VP one day while she was talking to the President on a phone call. To my surprise the Executive VP was running down so many small details of the office that I was totally shocked. Immediately, I began to notice that each day this was the routine. First a phone call would happen, then a detailed chronological order of events that were taking place in the office followed…all the way down to who made the coffee (ok I may have exaggerated, but just a bit).

I ran outside to make a personal call; I needed to get my old senior manager on the phone. When he answered I rushed him with my apology. I said this is Darrin Carter and I called you to apologize for all my stubbornness and rebellion towards you. Today I have learned that when I am correct stubbornness is tenacity, but when I am wrong rebellion is called wickedness and even is compared to witchcraft in the scripture.

When it all falls down, you and I are forced to live with our ignorance except we allow somebody to tell us something better. Kanye West has a song out, “Can’t tell Me Nothing,” and to no surprise the hook of the chorus line is, “uh -uh you can’t tell me nothing.”

Pharaoh was warned to let God’s people go, and he said no. This man caused all kinds of sufferings to hit his people, himself, and his land. God allowed his heart to be fixed so that he could not change his mind.

When Saul met Jesus on the road to Damascus he could have put up a good fight, instead he lost his sight and learned something greater. Saul became Apostle Paul and the rest is history.

Moses could have seen the promise land, but he got offended after the people were too much to handle. Jehovah told Moses that he would give him a new group but Moses said no.

When it all falls down- what will be your reaction when you received what you said you wanted?


Carter with a “K”

What Work for Some - May Not Work for You

Today is a great day. This sort of opening comment automatically begs the question, what is so great about it? I am glad I asked. Today is great because I am very aware of who I am and where I am from. My statement is simple yet powerful. Who a person is and where they are from says all there is to be said about their sociology. I will attempt to make today’s devotion rather short and sweet because today it is about me; describing myself is as simple as saying my name.

When Jesus walked the streets of Galilee was he called Rabi or teacher? If so, this would be Christ being addressed by what He did for an occupation versus who He is. For instance, would you rather be called your name or your occupation? We address Doctors, Ministers of the Gospel, and judges according to their occupation- but this is not who these folks are, this is an occupation.

At times this can be very confusing as it was with David and King Saul. David had a philistine giant cursing and swearing God’s people, while it appeared that no one would shut his mouth. This infuriated David as later you will read in the scripture I attached. When there is an intruder in ones kingdom refusing to obey the laws of the king, something has to be done to stop such disrespect.

King Saul was king but inwardly he was coward underneath the boisterous Goliath. David was a shepherd by occupation. Nonetheless, David came from the line of Jesse who is directly connected to the genealogy of Christ. Therefore, the king in David blood was offended not the shepherd boy. The royal-ness in his blood was provoked by the insults of Goliath, and when it was time for the true king to stand up for the kingdom, the shepherd defended his throne.

As you will read the armor of King Saul did not fit shepherd boy David, in fact King Saul sword was heavier than Daves total body weight (ok I exaggerated). David did not use the weapon of the more noticeable King Saul because it was not meant for him. Instead, David used testimonies of victory over his past enemies which caused him victory over his present. David started reciting where he was from and gave himself confidence to defeat Goliath by identifying with who he (David) is.

Next time you think you may need a lawyer, doctor, man, or woman, reach for retrospect and pull out a testimony. If what you have in your hand is a slingshot, then find some stones and let it rip. Slingshots are fragile and may not be all that tough, but it’s not the weapon anyway, it is about who is carrying the weapon. We do this in fashion all the time, it’s not the outfit it’s who is wearing it!

Go on and use what appears to be nothing to others and take out your giant! God will be praised because you should be dead; instead you are alive holding the head of your enemy in your hands.

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."

My Boy do Kanye West, Just Give Me Some Celine Dion...

Often times I get frustrated with knowing what is the right thing to do. Taken from the movie "Do the Right Thing" by Spike Lee, I find myself exiting rooms with that movie title. It's as though I can’t feel good except I am at least trying to be correct.

This frustration at times causes me to dislike the fact that I care for others as much as I do. At times I feel plagued by smiling when I want to frown; walk away, when I am so ready to punch someone who is being rude to me, or just acting up; apologizing when I feel I have done nothing wrong- this really burns me at times.

This morning I began to pray about my attitude and how things in this life frankly piss me off! The only thing that can sooth my soul lately when I feel this way is Celine Dion album entitled, All the Way: A Decade of Song.

After all I have been through I still feel bad every so often. Even though I have countless victories; they are not enough. I have had so many wins that if my victories were recorded I would be the World Greatest (a description of Mohammed Ali the once Heavy Weight Champion of the World- written by R Kelly).

Nevertheless, I don’t feel like a winner everyday let alone a champion- sometimes I feel like a hopeless river wandering through valleys never being reunited with the sea. Its times like these that I usually go dancing, or fine something interesting to do like traveling. What I never do is accept this temporary circumstance of weakness, failure, and lost.

I am always thinking about what I can do to stand. I use music and exercise to change my mood at times to effect me positively. For instance, I will jog or lift weights and pray as I exercise. If things are really bad I do the above, plus pull out music that turn my heart on the Lord like Jonathan Butler, Al Green, Celine Dion, Donnie Hathaway, Luciano and Soca music. If I am still down, I will jog and preach to myself the word of God until my change come. By chance if none of the above work, I repeat every step again tomorrow until I am better; if it takes days, then days it take. The point is I never ever get tired enough to give up.

You and I both need to have tested and proven ways to get out of the dumps and make sure we are not living where a visit is not acceptable. I know some will not like the tools I used to get back up again. Yet, I find hope in the Holy Scripture that says the earth and everything in it belongs to God Psalm 24.

I don’t discriminate when my life and joy is on the line. Jehovah gives us what we need when we need it. If it does not hurt my body, take away from my relationship with God, distract me from being a witness, or hurt others -Babe it's on. What I need may not be a sermon, prayer, Tele-evangelist, or fasting. I believe at times, all I need is Crossroads Entertainment Complex, or a reggae band called Storm on Friday nights at Bukum Café in Adams Morgan, Washington, DC. I do what I must do to stay above my drowning.

I submit to you to hold on to the table, water hose, the sofa, kitchen sink, end tables, and whatever else to stop yourself from fainting. Quitters never win, and winners never quit. The shadow of death is not death; it’s only a shadow. If you want to see a change, then change and see.

My scripture today is:

Psalm 23
A Psalm of David.
1THE LORD is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.

2He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.

3He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness [uprightness and right standing with Him--not for my earning it, but] for His name's sake.

4Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me.

5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my [brimming] cup runs over.

6Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place.

Footnotes:
Psalm 23:5 It is difficult for those living in a temperate climate to appreciate, but it was customary in hot climates to anoint the body with oil to protect it from excessive perspiration. When mixed with perfume, the oil imparted a delightfully refreshing and invigorating sensation. Athletes anointed their bodies as a matter of course before running a race. As the body, therefore, anointed with oil was refreshed, invigorated, and better fitted for action, so the Lord would anoint His "sheep" with the Holy Spirit, Whom oil symbolizes, to fit them to engage more freely in His service and run in the way He directs--in heavenly fellowship with Him.

Psalm 24
A Psalm of David.

1THE EARTH is the Lord's, and the fullness of it, the world and they who dwell in it.

2For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the currents and the rivers.

3Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place?

4He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false, nor sworn deceitfully.

5He shall receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation.

6This is the generation [description] of those who seek Him [who inquire of and for Him and of necessity require Him], who seek Your face, [O God of] Jacob. Selah [pause, and think of that]!

7Lift up your heads, O you gates; and be lifted up, you age-abiding doors, that the King of glory may come in.

8Who is the King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.

9Lift up your heads, O you gates; yes, lift them up, you age-abiding doors, that the King of glory may come in.

10Who is [He then] this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory. Selah [pause, and think of that]!

Tired of These Begging Folks? Not Really

Today I was thinking on the subject of how I deal with beggars on the street i.e., in and around the metro train stations, at church entrances after hours sleeping in the District, stopping me at the traffic-light asking for coins or, “you got a dollar boss, I'm would like to buy me something to eat?”

I never really did understand how so many people in America could be without housing and shelter- but that topic is a different Blog. This is how I handle the so-called "Beggar. " First, I give at least 85% of the time I encounter him or her. I am not really concern about who this is in front of me. Actually that is not true, a better quote is “I am not concern with how this person(s) seem to be to me in their approach.” My aim is to give. And almost every time I decide not to give, I ache inside wondering was this my opportunity to meet Jesus and I passed Him by.

There is a scripture found in Matthew 25:31-46 Amplified 40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

41Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

42For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:

43I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

44Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

45Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.

46And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. My study tip today is to always read verse 1 as I did in this instance (Thanks to one of my mentors John Doonan- I can still him saying, “Darrin did you read the entire chapter or just that one verse?)

~~~~~~~

The kingdom of heaven is likened unto virgins, then those who received talents, and lastly sheep in comparison to goats. Each instance talked about being ready and having the nature of Christ. I placed emphasis on the latter portion of this text above.

The goats did not help strangers, while the sheep did. The goats never visited or gave alms of support, but the sheep acted opposite of the self-preserving goats. We read later that the sheep are very helpful. But did you notice that both the goats and the sheep are ignorant of who the strangers are. Obviously to the goats the identity of the strangers mattered; socioeconomic stratification.

I do my best to do for the Lord more when I think He’s not watching. Yeah I know this sounds silly but it’s my truth. In actuality, this is how I believe the sheep behaved in that they helped many strangers never knowing that Jesus would count their compassions as gifts to Him. Jesus replied, when you did it to the least of these you have also given drink unto me. Matthew 25:45

Lord I pray that I can share my substance even more; help me with the 15% and other times that I fail opportunities to help the poor- let me not mock you with my lack of compassion. Proverbs 14:31

Family at times I feel like some of these folks are tricking me. I think I don't give because I feel some of these folks could do better for themselves. Another reason I don't give is because I might be sponsoring a bad habit- such as alcoholism or drug addictions. So instead of doing the best thing 100% of the time I simply pass by. Now when I don’t have money I can’t give; I am talking about when I have it and don’t.

I hope all of you who read this Blog are interested in this topic to some degree. I will right about my detailed reasons why I don’t give and how I am improving at a later time. I hope you have been blessed by looking at my life as I look towards Christ.

What is for you will see your face.