What leads your quest? Part 2 (7/7/2019)

SALUTATIONS: Hello everyone, I hope that everyone had a relaxing 4th of July. I did, for the first in many years. I don't know when the transition took place, of me going from anticipating Independence Day to dreading it, but I really dislike that holiday. I mean seriously, what in the heck do people truly get out of spending their hard earned, or not so hard earned cash flow to buy miniature dynamite whose blasts keep the neighborhood awake with all the "booms," that have car alarms sounding at all times of day, the months leading up to the 4th and months thereafter? I spent that weekend out of town bonding with my son, and aside from the little earthquake that my mini-me slept through, I was undisturbed by any 4th of July shenanigans, thank God. Anyway, I'd like to admit that the delay in the current SOW is legit this time. I actually skipped sending the SOW last week in order to do more in-depth study, to collect additional context to clear up concerns that some of our brothers and sisters may have had with regard to the last message I sent out; it was brought to my attention that the lesson may have been a bit confusing to new believers and may even be a deterrent. Plus, as I was editing the SOW on Sunday, I ran into some technical difficulties and couldn’t finish editing until well after midnight… Let me take a moment to admonish you: first, Satan is the author of confusion, second, spiritual things cannot be understood by those who reject discernment from the Spirit (refer to 1 Corinthians 2:14 here http://shorturl.at/msxAL). That being said, it's imperative for us to enter into our studies with an open mind and heart; start your studies with prayer for clarity, understanding, and discernment, BEFORE any attempts to delve into a spiritual message; entering your spiritual quest with prayer, helps to facilitate the removal of hindrances that may have deafened you to the Spirit's instruction. On another note, when you chose to make time, please take a moment to register your Ralph's, Food 4 Less, and/or Kroger Rewards cards to enroll your member number/phone number for the Ralph's/Food 4 Less Community Contribution Program to help Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (aka FMBS Inc., serving communities throughout Southern Cali since 2012) raise funds to give back to the community; for every purchase you make, a small % is given as a donation to our non-profit organization - your rewards points are NOT affected by this enrollment. Thank you in advance, I appreciate your support. Also, at your leisure, I encourage you to check out the Announcements, Healthy Living Tips, and other information detailed below, following the Reflections and Power in Prayer. Always SHARE GOD’s GOSPEL and feel free to share the Scripture of the Week with the hashtag SOW. Enjoy! **Disclaimer: Production and distribution days of the SOW are subject to change without warning**

PRAISE REPORTS: Josias, my son, has spent the past few days wearing only regular underwear during the day and at night, with no accidents; here is where I'd insert the emoji with the praising hands, but I don't know how to do that, so I'll just say, "Hallelujah" instead. In fact, you should be shouting "Hallelujah" too, because you’re reading this message, which means that you’ve been blessed with another moment of life, functioning senses, and access to a device to view and SHARE this message. Thank you, Yeshua! If you have a specific praise report, please share, because we “overcame him [the adversary] by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of [our] testimony” (Revelation 12:11). **NOTE: All praise reports are shared with reference to your name unless anonymity is specified**

PRAYER REQUESTS: This week, let's pray for strongholds to be removed and for self to be set aside, so that our true purpose is revealed and/or the direction, understanding, and skill necessary to step into our purpose is defined and developed right away, so that we aren't wasting precious moments being stagnant. Also, keep praying for one another, thanking Yahweh for the victory while refraining from confessing the problem caused by the enemy; ALWAYS pray for the desired result, NOT the unfavorable outcome (refer to the book The Tongue – A Creative Force, by Charles Capps; you can purchase your copy here https://goo.gl/qf4rxB). If you or someone you know needs prayer, let me know, and your request will be added to the following SOW. **NOTE: All prayer requests are shared with reference to your name and need unless anonymity is specified**

BE ENCOURAGED: NEVER lose sight of God in amidst of adversity… Ponder this: “To walk the spiritual path is to continually step out into the unknown” (Wallace Huey). I'm no theological scholar, and even if I were a pastor or an expert on God's word, I would still advise you NEVER to take someone else's word as solid truth; "Study to show thyself approved" (2 Timothy 2:15), and CHALLENGE EVERYTHING by comparing it to the Word of God. If what you see, hear or read does NOT fall in line with the Word of God, then it is NOT true... The rest of this day isn't promised, let alone tomorrow, so why not strengthen your faith TODAY? Feed your body healthy nutrition, be cautious of what things you allow your eyes, ears, and spirit to be exposed to (e.g. media, books, TV, music, etc.) so that YOU can start anew and become a better you NOW, rather than later. 
 
FEATURED SONGS OF PRAISE: "You Got Up" by Travis Greene you can listen to it here (https://shorturl.at/qBPS0) "Know Him" by J. Moss, you can listen to it here (https://shorturl.at/pqyIS). I would also like to recommend Classical for Studying Radio on Pandora to better facilitate your meditation on the Word as you study, you can listen to that station here https://shorturl.at/elqz3.  

OPENING PRAYER: Yahweh, please clear our minds and open our eyes, ears, and hearts so that we may be removed from self and moved by the Spirit, to see, hear, and receive your intended message from this fellowship. In the name of Yeshua, Amen!
 
PASSAGE(S) – MATTHEW 6:33: "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

**Unless otherwise indicated all Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage**

REFLECTIONS: Last time I started by posing the question, "What or who is it that leads your quests?" We discussed our misguided motives behind seeking God. We reviewed some of our audacious expectations of the Lord. We compared seeking God to gift-giving - whether you are a gifter who gives with an expectation of receiving NOTHING in return, as intended, or, you're a gifter who gives to someone you care about, yet, knowing that the individual you're blessing will return the favor, seeking God has its parallels. When we go to the Lord earnestly seeking to be touched by Him, we know that there are benefits in building that relationship, but the benefits are an afterthought. Our seeking a relationship with Yahweh shouldn't rely on what He can do for us, meaning, the reason we go to Him should NOT be self-serving - that is where some of our brothers and sisters in Christ struggled with our previous message.Some of you may have the same or similar concerns: Why shouldn't I seek God out of fear if fear is the beginning of knowledge? Why shouldn't I seek the Lord for peace, salvation, or Heaven, isn't that the whole point? Let's dive in, shall we?

Let me be clear, I am NOT saying that you cannot or should not seek the Lord for whatever reasons you desire. I AM saying, however, to PRAY BEFORE pursuing Him, lest your efforts are self-seeking. I AM also saying to explore a RELATIONSHIP with Yahweh - God; a connection with Him should be the goal because every egocentric intention behind building that relationship is an automatic benefit. Now, let's investigate some of its contexts. First, we don’t need to seek what we already have. We were ALL given the gift of the Spirit and of salvation after Jesus’ crucifixion (refer to Ephesians 2, NIV, here http://shorturl.at/lmOT7), it is up to us whether or not we’ll accept that gift through confession of the mouth and believing in our hearts that Yeshua is our savior (refer to Romans 10:9 here http://shorturl.at/ktzO7). Without a frame of reference from its original text, some of the scriptures may appear to be contradictory, for lack of better terms. For instance, Proverbs 9:10 tells us that "fear is the beginning of wisdom," while 1 John 4:18 says, "there is no fear in love." Every believer knows that "God is love" (1 John 4:8), so then why would the Bible instruct us to fear the Lord when there's no fear in love, and God is love?

Let's begin with our featured scripture, Matthew 6:33, "seek ye FIRST the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and ALL these things shall be added unto you"; the term first is pretty straightforward, but since I'm putting some context on it, its Hebrew-Greek translation is prōton which refers to the place of importance - at the beginning, before all. Basically, this verse is telling us that BEFORE EVERYTHING else, with a continuous affinity, we ought to go after a relationship with the Lord. Now, let's revert to Proverbs 9:10 (read it here http://shorturl.at/IW138) and 1 John 4:18 (read it here http://shorturl.at/ejuwR) to break down the term fear itself. First off, contextually, fear in these verses have differing meanings - same English word, but different literal translation. In Proverbs 9:10 as well as Proverbs 1:7 (read it here http://shorturl.at/vwyU4), fear is referenced as yir'âh which can be defined as moral reverence or honor - fear in this scripture verse is produced by the Spirit and addresses our ability and willingness to be receptive to the provision of wisdom and knowledge from the Lord. On the other hand, fear in 1 John 4:18, phobos, defined as terror, relates to being afraid of something or someone. The first verse is telling us that as we revere God, we develop a relationship with Him, and as that connection strengthens, we'll begin to understand the spiritual things revealed to us by the Spirit - wisdom, and knowledge. Whereas, the second biblical text is reminding us that when we're made mentally complete (teleios) in the Lord, we will not be paralyzed by adolescent angst. Similarly, fear in 2 Timothy 1:7 (read it here http://shorturl.at/cvISY), deilia, defined as timidity and cowardice that is in opposition to the actual power Yahweh fills our soul with when we seek Him.

So, the "contradiction" of the Word isn't in the Word itself, it is in our interpretation of it and our lack of due diligence in studying the rich contextual information outlined in the Bible. We must be mindful that reading does NOT equate to understanding. Within the Bible, there are 4 forms of context we should be reviewing in our biblical studies: the context of a single scripture verse, the context of its immediate verses before and after, the context of the chapter in its entirety, and the context as it relates to the message of the Bible as a whole. In Revelation 14:7 which reads, "Saying with a loud voice, 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters," we see fear, phobéō, as an act of reverence and feeling of awe that compels us to respond or take action; the gist is this, as we seek the Lord our motivation should be to develop a relationship - courting Him, getting to KNOW who He really is to deepen our respect for Him. In relationship, we will naturally convert our desires to match His, transform our character to mirror His, which will cause us to ACT in that transformation over time. As we actively respond to our conversion, all of our needs will be met. That means, if we were in need of peace, salvation, courage, love, strength, or some other provision, prior to the start of our quest to find God, after we've revered ["feared"] Him to open the door to knowledge and wisdom of the spiritual things only understandable through the Spirit, then ALL those things will be benefits - the result - of the RELATIONSHIP we've established through adequate TIME spent in prayer, bible study, and individual worship. Just think of this change as a shedding of skin meant to cast off the old to reveal the new - you model the Lord so that when people encounter you, they encounter God.

POWER IN PRAYER: Yahweh, we thank you for redemption, and for the freedom to choose life over death by way of our faith. We thank you for your provisions of health and healing, and for allowing us to breathe yet another week. Forgive us for our unbelief and remove the things or people from our lives hindering us from recognizing our potential and purpose, so that the spiritual things that require spiritual discerning will be clear to us. Lord, we praise you for the peace and calm amidst chaos, sorrow, and mourning. We thank you for removing all strongholds that prevent us from establishing and strengthening a relationship with you. We ask that we are removed from self, so that our thoughts, words, and actions may be moved by you. In the process of our pruning, we ask that our true purpose be revealed and/or the direction, understanding, and skill necessary to step into that purpose is defined and developed right away, so that we avoid idle time and precious moments being stagnant. Help us to exercise due diligence when studying your word and applying your decrees into our daily lives. We thank you for closing doors that are necessary for our growth while opening new windows of opportunities for transformation of a character that reflects you; keep us steadfast as we embark on the paths you've etched into our hearts, Father, so that we will remain obedience to you and continue to make choices in wisdom, not folly. Create in us new hearts that sincerely trust in and act upon your will. Help us to turn away from sin and to serve others in a manner that displays an appropriate example of Christ-like behavior, demonstrates love, encouragement, edification, and strength so that others may experience your grace through us. We give the Holy Spirit permission to dwell within and use us as vessels to share your light with the world. Give us the strength and desire to forgive those who have wronged us, and to forgive ourselves; cause us to let go of the past that haunts us and release us from any binds and attachments that negatively impact our growth. Keep us humble, focused, disciplined, and driven as we work to become everything you have called us to be. Bless each of us individually providing all the tools necessary to balance our personal, professional, and spiritual lives. Bless our loved ones and even our enemies. Provide revelations and awareness as you deliver us from our hindrances and achieve in us the ability to pray game-changing prayers – prayers that change people, change outcomes, and help your will to manifest. This is our trusted prayer, and as your angels and Holy Spirit do your bidding on Earth and in Heaven, protect us and them with your recourse. All these things we ask in the matchless name of Yeshua, Amen!

HEALTHY LIVING TIPS: Change begins within...  As a person who has firsthand experience with depression and anxiety, I know the importance of seeking help early for mental health issues. Many people are reluctant to seek help for mental disabilities because of the stigma attached to them. PTSD, depression, and anxiety can be just as crippling as mental retardation if gone untreated. The effects of avoiding treatment such as counseling, or other forms of therapy, medication, holistic approaches, etc., can be fatal. I knew two people personally who took their own lives due to their struggles with mental health, and the fear attached to the possible judgments they might have received as opposed to their desired support. I'm here to tell you, some of our closest friends and relatives do have great intentions and may even have our best interest at heart, however, it is very difficult for a loved one to set aside biased feelings and let go of their emotions when someone they love is hurting. They tend to react without much thinking beforehand. Studying psychology helped me put some of my emotions into perspective, however, it was through talking to therapists, being transparent with anyone who'd listen, and not being afraid to tell a loved one to "listen and keep quiet, period," as well as finding other outlets such as writing, prayer, and exercise to help release some of my frustration, that truly helped me to cope with my emotions and learn to ultimately conquer them. If you're struggling with mental health issues, I encourage you to experiment with coping skills to determine which works best for you and make those practices a habit to help counteract negative emotions. And if someone you know has signs of mental illness, I can't stress enough, keep them in prayer, and show them your SUPPORT in the way that they NEED. YOU ARE NOT PSYCHIC, so DO NOT attempt to assume what their need or desire is when it comes to support, ASK, and then ACT.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 

1. I am on a quest to relaunch   Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.) and I NEED volunteers and serious board members; Currently, I am in need of people who have a background in business, have some knowledge of operating a non-profit, and/or have resources or connections that can help facilitate our making an impact in surrounding at-risk and underprivileged communities **NOTE: this is a business NOT a hobby** FMBS Inc. has a mission to help supply the homeless as well as needy families with food and hygiene bags. Our recipients are selected by referral, and/or by canvassing the streets for deserving families and individuals throughout Southern California. I encourage you to reach out to me regarding your interest in service or to arrange any monetary donations or item contributions at any time via email at fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com, my voicemail or text at (951) 790-2127, or by making a donation using the Donate button on the upper right corner of our Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/fmbsinc.sustenance/.
2. Another way FMBS Inc. raises funds is through the Ralph's/Food 4 Less Community Contribution Program; you must go to their website here http://www.friendsindeedpas.org/get-involved/ralphs-community-contribution-program/ and link your rewards cards or telephone numbers (Alt ID) to our organization each year, and we will earn money for every purchase made under your rewards cards. Your continued support is always appreciated. Please keep spreading the word. #SOW

JOIN OUR CAUSE: Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.) is on a never-ending quest to locate deserving individuals to extend our services to. Therefore, we are always in need of monetary donations and/or contributions of hygiene items, sealed snacks, bottled water, seasonal items (gloves, scarves, blankets, umbrellas, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.), mini bibles, reading books, and so forth.; our YEAR-ROUND mission is to serve homeless and/or needy individuals and families in underprivileged communities throughout Southern California. We also need DEDICATED volunteers and members – is this your calling? Eventually, when we have met our need for volunteers and board members, we will extend our services to assist/mentor at-risk youth, and to address some of the needs of veterans and their family members. We are successful because of YOUR continued support. Please continue to back us up through participation, and/or by encouraging others to join our cause!
 
For more information about our organization contact fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com, as our website is currently under construction. Feel free to LIKE our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fmbsinc.sustenance/ and follow us on Twitter @FMBSInc.
 
Very Respectfully,

Tylesha "Tye" Allen   Behavioral Interventionist | Mobile Notary | CEO/Founder of FMBS Inc. ·         Mobile: (951) 790-2127 ·         Address: Los Angeles, CA ·         Website: http://www.ready411.weebly.com | http://sodbytye.blogspot.com  ·         Email: professional1_99@hotmail.com ·         Change begins within; work on becoming a better You ·         "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." (Psalm 118:8) ·         Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/fmbsinc.sustenance ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/tylesha-"tye"-allen/a4/599/875 ·         Twitter: https://twitter.com/TyeDreamsBig