Scripture of the Week (SOW) formerly known as the Scripture of the Day (SOD): March 2021

Monday, March 29, 2021

Keep It Positive (3/29/2021)

SALUTATIONS: Hey yall! Apologies about last week. I did not manage my time well. I turned 40 and had several unexpected celebratory gatherings to celebrate 40 years of living and 25+ years of friendship. Those events took time from my normal production, which threw all my other days off as well. However, I believe that had I planned better and gotten more sleep, then I would've still been able to do what I do on Sundays. Anyhow, this week we'll be discussing why it's so important to keep it positive amidst the negative. Let's jump into it. As always, take time to review ALL of the Announcements, Healthy Living Tips, and other information detailed below, following the Reflections and Power in Prayer, whenever time permits. Your continued support is always appreciated. Keep spreading 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: I'm grateful because I have been blessed with 40 years of life. I share my birthday with my dad who is still living - both my parents are living and my parents are still together. I have tons of supportive loving family, shelter, clothes, shoes, food, and clean water. I've been blessed with 4 years and 7 months of motherhood, and I kick it with the same 5 friends from high school - 25 years strong, not to mention my best friend who tops the 25 years with an additional two. I am just blessed and thankful for all the Lord has done and is doing in my life. Yahweh, Abba, Redeemer, we thank you through our struggles, we praise you for our past trials, our current obstacles, and our future triumphs. Help us in our unbelief. Hallelujah! If you have a specific praise report, please share, because we “overcame [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: I'd like us to pray for alignment with God, for ourselves, and for one another. Let's continue to pray for one another and thank 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 download your FREE copy here https://rb.gy/niy4go). 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 amidst adversity… Ponder this: "Being positive isn't pretending that everything is good, it's seeing the good in everything" (Ask-Angels.com). 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. If you need someone to help you get there, or you're looking for an accountability partner, you've come to the right place. Here I am.

FEATURED SONGS OF PRAISE: "Smile" by Kirk Franklin (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/x3939d) and "Brighter Day" by George (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/9dv01x). 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://rb.gy/wtbmva.

OPENING PRAYER: Yahweh, please let your presence set the tone for how this lesson will flow and how we will grow from it. Clear our mind and open our eyes, ears, and heart so that we may be decreased in self and increased in you. Fill us with your presence through the Holy Spirit to see as we look, to listen as we hear, to come into alignment with your word and your will, to receive, believe, and apply your truth, that we may be transformed by your intended message from this fellowship and become better as a result of it. In the name of Yeshua, Amen!

KEY PASSAGE(S) – PHILIPPIANS 4:8: "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

**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: Have you ever tried to frown and smile at the same time? Well, you can't. Frowning is incompatible with smiling. So then let's think about the company we keep, are they often negative or positive? If you say your friends are negative yet you think you're different, then you probably need a self-check. Here's the thing, positivity cannot exist in negativity, just as darkness cannot exist in the light. When we're producing the fruit of the Spirit, positivity, joy, and peace are products thereof. Thus, we will naturally begin to disassociate from people, places, and things that do not cultivate those characteristics.

Our passage this evening tells us what types of things we ought to think about; according to Philippians 4:8, we should be meditating on things that are true, just, pure, and of good report. Here's how The Message breaks it down, "Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse." Now, take a moment to reflect on the things you meditate on. Are you filling your mind with "reality TV" where everything is scripted to some degree, messy, and full of drama? Is it routine for you to welcome and/or participate in gossip? Are you so consumed by where you THINK you should be that you cannot even recognize the blessings in where you are or where you've come from? If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, then you're not meditating on the right things, and/or you're not surrounded by the right circle.

How would you define a friend? Someone you associate with, chill with, have a good time with? If that's all they add to your life is a turn-up moment, then sorry to break it to you, they aren't your friends; a friend is someone with whom you have a bond of mutual affection. If your "friendship" is one-sided, then you have yourself an associate, not a friend. Friends tell you the truth, they are fair, they consider your best interests, and they support your dreams and aspirations. Friends add to, not take away. Same with your significant other - if who you are surrounding yourself with cultivates the negative behaviors more than the positives, then they are NOT for you and it's time to move on.

Everyone and everything that no longer serves you, meaning, if he, she, it, or they, are not helping to positively facilitate your spiritual, professional, and/or personal growth in some way, then LET GO! You cannot keep it positive while simultaneously keeping it negative. Just like Elijah spoke to the people about taking a stand to either follow God or Baal (read 1 Kings 18:21, NIV, here https://rb.gy/d5ehsg), we have to decide whether we want to walk in peace, joy, and thankfulness, or, stress, hatred, and ungratefulness. Here's the thing, to keep it positive you must think positive thoughts. Those thoughts then form words, and our words then influence our actions. Therefore, the things we listen to (everyone with the sense of hearing can hear, but listening is an act of absorbing and applying that which was heard), the things we allow our eyes to see (the gift of sight allows us to watch anything, but it is the Holy Spirit that allows us to see past the surface of things), and the things we meditate on (thinking is something everyone does, even those with mental disabilities can think, but the act of meditation is our ability to focus our attention on something) ought to nurture our character so that what we think, do, and say is true, kind, necessary, and edifying. Whatever and whoever cannot help to cultivate your character is NOT for you, let them go.

To keep it positive amidst the negative you must be able to distinguish between the two, and when who you are is being lifted, nurtured, and developed by the people, things, and environments you immerse yourself in, you'll start to see the difference. As you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you to those friendships, those circles, and those environments, you're connecting with the Father and strengthening your oneness with Him. As He develops you, ONLY when you're willing to work on that spiritual relationship just as hard as you would a physical one, then you begin to discern the best people, programming, music, and activities to develop the most efficient habits, mindset, and actions to keep it positive even when everything else appears to be negative. #SOW

POWER IN PRAYER: POWER IN PRAYER: Father God we thank you for life, for grace, for mercy, and for forgiveness. We thank you that you are our Provider, even when we are blinded by negativity and fail to recognize the blessings and/or lessons within our circumstances. Help us in our unbelief Father, so that we may spend more time focused on your goodness, meditating on your truth, and things that are edifying. Reveal to us the environments and company that are for us, and give us the strength to part ways with those that no longer serve us. We ask that you give us alignment with you so that as your sheep, we recognize your voice even at the slightest whisper. May what we think, do, and say be true, kind, necessary, and edifying, and may we always be pleasing to you. Show us who and what will help to cultivate character traits that mimic yours, and give us the courage and willingness to immerse ourselves in it. May our lifestyle choices be bathed in positivity so that no matter how negative the world around us is, we can keep it positive and continue to give you glory. May your will be done in our lives, and may our trust in you be secure enough to render this request genuine in your sight. As your angels and Holy Spirit do your bidding on Earth and in Heaven, protect us and them with your recourse as you bind, loose, and cast out the demonic spirits of distraction, destruction, retaliation, revenge, and backlash. All these things we ask in the matchless name of Yeshua, Amen!

HEALTHY LIVING TIPS: Change begins within... With all the negatives in the world, it can be challenging to maintain a positive outlook. Here are 4 ways you can keep it positive even when everything else appears to be negative:

Accept your weaknesses and work to improve them; what's weak can be made strong. Celebrate your strengths and use them to build up yourself and others (i.e. if you're a writer, start a blog giving tips on how to improve your writing).
Love yourself: no one can love you better than you can; you know how love looks to you - model what and how you want others to value you. Self-care is a part of self-love; if taking care of yourself looks like two scoops of ice cream from 31 Flavors, then go get yourself some ice cream. If it means 10 minutes of me-time, then find your place of peace and do you. If it's watching a movie, do it. Just be sure you're taking time to celebrate yourself. If you've matured and grown from who you were 5 years ago, then that's something to celebrate. Every step towards improvement is something to acknowledge, adding to your self-care.
Change your language: the more you say something it begins to become a belief, therefore, when you're mindful of speaking positively and edifying, you're cultivating a positive mindset which develops your lifestyle choices.
Create your own peace: determine NOT to allow others to affect your mood. You choose to react to your circumstances positively or negatively. Be sure the company you keep and the physical environments you enter add to your positive energy not take away from it.

As always, be mindful of the things you feed your body, both physically and figuratively. Be safe, be blessed, and prioritize your health and wellbeing!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, I invite you to join my virtual support group via Zoom; we meet every 3rd Sunday at 2:30 pm PST. Just text "heal" to (323) 800-8616 to be added to our text notifications/reminders.
Help me get FMBS Inc. back active in the community yall! I'd like to start regular community beautification projects, homeless outreach, and live workshops that will provide guidance, mentorship, resources, and helpful information for at-risk youth. Here's the thing, I don't know how to do any of this, but I'm willing to learn; if you have any helpful information or affordable training opportunities please share.
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. To enroll, you must go to their website here http://www.friendsindeedpas.org/get-involved/ralphs-community-contribution-program/ and link your rewards cards and/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.
Update on my 1st children's book, Color Isn't Who I AM © 2019: I'm still praying for God to come through in the hearts of those at Covenant Books to come down on that hefty price tag and select a reasonable price for my book to be sold so that it's accessible to everyone. When He does, my book will be on a bookshelf near you.
Be on the lookout for the relaunch of my non-profit organization, Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.). Although I am willing to carry out my plans solo, I would be remiss if I didn't extend an invitation to ALL willing volunteers to help me serve our communities by accepting a significant role as a committed and trusted board member, or a contributor of time (physical volunteer work), monies, supplies, and/or resources. My appreciation is extended to anyone that can help facilitate making an impact in surrounding at-risk and underprivileged communities throughout Southern California. Part of our mission is to help supply the homeless as well as needy families with food and hygiene bags throughout the year and especially during the holidays and to serve as mentors and/or advocates for at-risk youth and victims of abuse. Reach out to me regarding your interest in service or to arrange another form of contribution; contact me via email at fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com, or leave a voicemail and/or text at (951) 790-2127.

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 and address some of the needs of our 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.

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)

Monday, March 15, 2021

Even If (3/14/2021)

SALUTATIONS: Happy Sunday yall! Integrity is a highly valued character trait, yet, I believe that in this day and age so many lacks it. So, tonight we'll be talking about what it looks like to stand fast even if it goes against the grain. Let's jump into it. As always, take time to review ALL of the Announcements, Healthy Living Tips, and other information detailed below, following the Reflections and Power in Prayer, whenever time permits. Your continued support is always appreciated. Keep spreading 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: I am thankful for having a life coach who is also a believer - who reminds me that I am equipped with every skill I need, it's just a matter of allowing the Holy Spirit to teach me to tap into it. Our Lord, Our Redeemer, we thank you through our struggles, we praise you for our past trials, our current obstacles, and our future triumphs. Help us in our unbelief. Hallelujah! If you have a specific praise report, please share, because we “overcame [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: My friend asked that we pray for his nephew Gabriel who had one successful surgery last week, but has another one coming next month; let's pray for the success of that procedure as well as a speedy and complete recovery. Let's continue to pray for one another and thank 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 download your FREE copy here https://rb.gy/niy4go). 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 amidst adversity… Ponder this: "Integrity is not something you show others. It is how you behave behind their back" (PictureQuotes.com). 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. If you need someone to help you get there, or you're looking for an accountability partner, you've come to the right place. Here I am.

FEATURED SONGS OF PRAISE: "Love Theory" by Kirk Franklin (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/dlll0a) and "Your Greater is Coming" by Jekalyn Carr (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/dph1zq). 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://rb.gy/wtbmva.

OPENING PRAYER: Yahweh, please let your presence set the tone for how this lesson will flow and how we will grow from it. Clear our mind and open our eyes, ears, and heart so that we may be decreased in self and increased in you. Fill us with your presence through the Holy Spirit to see as we look, to listen as we hear, to come into alignment with your word and your will, to receive, believe, and apply your truth, that we may be transformed by your intended message from this fellowship and become better as a result of it. In the name of Yeshua, Amen!

KEY PASSAGE(S) – DANIEL 3:16-18 (NIV): "16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, 'King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and He will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. 18 But even if He does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.'"

**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: Yo! How powerful is their stance? Simply put, the king was like, Aye, yall betta bow down to this gold image I built or yall getting tossed in the flames. Fo'real Fo'real, how many of yall can honestly say that if you had to choose between bowing down to an engraved image and being put on a blazing BBQ grill or in a rotisserie oven, that you'd be wit' it? I'm gonna keep it 100, I cannot say with all honesty what I would or wouldn't do if I were in that predicament. From experience, I have done things that I said and thought I never would, and I have not done things that I said and thought I would because when I was in the situation my outlook surrounding it was different. What I do know, however, is that I desire to be strong enough in my faith and my faithfulness to God that even if my circumstance is unfavorable, even if God chooses to allow me to go through it instead of delivering me from it, that I'll stand fast anyhow.

Daniel had already stood his ground by praying to God regardless of the king's decree and was delivered from the lion's den. Now, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were being challenged but faced with an even tougher fate - a fiery furnace. In an age where integrity, values, morals, and ethics seem to diminish with each new generation, it is rare to see someone practice what they preach, stand up for what they believe in, and/or take action instead of just talking about the issues plaguing society. Not to mention, there is so much tradition being taught over doctrine, that many people would feel safe to assume that if placed in this situation, they could bow down to the image and then ask for forgiveness later. Here's the thing, what if later never comes?

Having integrity means that you live for honesty, are a woman/man of your word, and you live by your own values. It's a trait that is highly revered in leadership and professionalism. Essentially, how you respond even if no one is watching, is a test of your core values. When you humbly serve, honor, and obey the Lord outside of public observation and recognition, it attests to your integrity. John 14:15 (NIV) says, "If you love me, keep my commandments." Tradition teaches us to obey God to avoid hell as if salvation is earned by works; doctrine states that "the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people" (Titus 2:11, NIV) "and everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Acts 2:21, NIV), "if you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9, NIV).

Unfortunately, some religious leaders skip past the doctrine that confirms that "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth" (Romans 10:4); Jesus did not come "to abolish the Law or the Prophets; ...but to fulfill them" (Matthew 5:17, NIV). Jesus was crucified to establish a NEW covenant, that whoever believes in Him shall be saved. Doing good deeds isn't what gets us a place in God's Kingdom, our faith does. However, just as integrity reveals one's innermost values, our true dedication to Christ is revealed through ACTION; our faithfulness to God and our love for Him is expressed through our good deeds and our obedience to His decrees - as a result of our gratitude and love for His provisions, we keep His commands, NOT as a condition thereof. Although, for many of us, we obey, serve, and "love" when it's convenient. However, the true testament of love for God is to follow His decrees even if your circumstances aren't as pretty as you think they should be. #SOW

POWER IN PRAYER: POWER IN PRAYER: Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Lord, we thank you for our daily bread. We thank you for your love and grace. We thank you for the gift of salvation and transformation. We thank you in advance for Gabriel's successful surgery and speedy recovery. We thank you for pruning us so that the parts of us that are undesirable are weeded out so that your seed may blossom in us to produce good fruit in love and deeds. Give us the willingness and courage to be steadfast in our convictions no matter the consequence, even if the outcome is unfavorable. Help us tap into every skill that you have equipped us with so that our character traits mimic yours. May our lifestyle choices be bathed in integrity so that the life we live may bring you glory. May your will be done in our lives, and may our trust in you be secure enough to render this request genuine in your sight. As your angels and Holy Spirit do your bidding on Earth and in Heaven, protect us and them with your recourse as you bind, loose, and cast out the demonic spirits of distraction, destruction, retaliation, revenge, and backlash. All these things we ask in the matchless name of Yeshua, Amen!

HEALTHY LIVING TIPS: Change begins within... If you're anything like me and my family, you're no stranger to occasional bouts of insomnia. So, here are some remedies that have worked for me, members of my family, friends, and/or associates:

**DISCLAIMER: This Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.**

Melatonin - a non-habit-forming supplement that helps to regulate or form better sleep patterns. Depending on your age, the dosage can range anywhere from 0.5mg to 10mg or higher. It comes in liquid form, gummies, pills, and sublingual tablets. 5mg worked for me, whereas 15mg was my brother's dosage, and 1mg for my 4-year-old. Melatonin is not a sleeping pill, it is something our bodies produce naturally to regulate our sleep-wake cycles, but when one suffers from insomnia or hyperactivity when taken 30 minutes before bed, this supplement helps to calm you enough to reach a state of sleep, and/or to increase the amount of time you stay asleep during the night. Note: for the best effectiveness in hyperactive children, after administration of this supplement, make sure your child is in bed or a relaxed position; if your child is still running around after administration, this supplement may not produce desired results.
Benadryl - is an antihistamine typically used for allergic reactions, however, it can cause drowsiness. I've found that taking 50mg can act as a non-habit-forming sleep-aid, whereas 25mg can counteract allergies and even assist with the management of anxiety attacks.
Sleepytime Tea - is a tea that consists of a blend of chamomile, spearmint, lemongrass, and a few other herbs and flowers; this tea has a variety of flavors and ingredients. I've found this tea to help calm my nerves to help me reach a level of comfort before bed and assisting with restful sleep.
Valerian Root Tea or Supplements - is an herb that I found out about watching the movie Fight Club. Tim Norton's character was suffering a severe case of insomnia and his doctor had recommended valerian root. I'd never heard of it before then, I don't recall finding it in the grocery store, so I must've ordered it online. To be honest, I don't recall whether or not it was effective but it's supposed to aid in nervous tension caused by anxiety and has a claim to fame for curing insomnia.
Warm Milk - I'm no fan of this one, but I did try it. #Gross. I prefer icy cold milk whenever I do partake. However, I elected to mix a hot cocoa packet in warm milk at bedtime, and that helped elicit sleep.
Binaural Beats or Meditation Music - I love this one. You can do a YouTube search for them, they have ones that require headphone use to hear, and those that do not. However, I prefer the ones that require headphones usage. Jody Hatton has a variety of them that I've found to be very effective. Yes, it is odd at first to sleep with earbuds at night, but my sleep when using these binaural beats was more restful than without. Here's one that I use frequently https://rb.gy/utw9bk. I'd also recommend finding binaural beats for power naps on his channel as well.
Hot Bath - with or without bubbles, Epsom salt, essential oils, or candles, a nice hot bath relaxes your body. If you're like me and dislike the idea of bathing in your own dirt, soak for 10-20 mins, or more, whatever floats your boat, and then take a shower once you've reached your desired level of relaxation.
Regular Exercise - I've found that when I maintain a moderate exercise routine 4-6 days out of the week, my body has more energy in the day and requires less need for aided sleep.
CBD Gummies or Oil - these are candies that are made with hemp without the euphoric effects of THC; they can help with pain, anxiety, and sleep. I have used the Just CBD brand, their apple rings taste just like the real thing, with no weird aftertaste. 50mg, which is 2 gummies, has provided relief of anxiety and aided in sleep. I haven't tried CBD oil, however, one of my aunts uses it to manage her pain, and swears by it.
THC Edibles or Oil - I listed this one last because it does alter your state of sobriety. THC can cause paranoia, euphoria, and even hallucinations in some people, while others cannot function without it. It was recommended to treat my severe TMJ pain and chronic anxiety, however, most of it tastes gross (to me), and if you're not a pro, you have to be mindful of your dosage otherwise you may end up having body twitching, deja vu, increased hunger, amongst other side effects. If you do choose to try THC edibles or oil, take it slow and start at the lowest dose, allowing a full hour to render effects before increasing your dosage. Additionally, be sure not to operate heavy-duty machinery or vehicles while using these products.

It is my experience that the effectiveness of any of the mentioned remedies is on a case-to-case basis, and relies heavily on one's lifestyle and stress levels. There are times when mild approaches were effective and other times when they were not. So be mindful that what may work for me and my loved ones may not work for you. As always, be mindful of the things you feed your body, both physically and figuratively. Be safe, be blessed, and prioritize your health and wellbeing!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Join me for the Neighborhood Beautification Project in Los Angeles, taking place on Saturday, March 27th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the West Athens area. If you're interested in physically joining this crusade, donating supplies, and/or know of resources or contacts that can assist in this venture, hit me up.
If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, I invite you to join my virtual support group via Zoom; we meet every 3rd Sunday at 2:30 PST. Just text "heal" to (323) 800-8616 to be added to our text notifications/reminders.
Help me get FMBS Inc. back active in the community yall! I'd like to start regular community beautification projects, homeless outreach, and live workshops that will provide guidance, mentorship, resources, and helpful information for at-risk youth. Here's the thing, I don't know how to do any of this, but I'm willing to learn; if you have any helpful information or affordable training opportunities please share.
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. To enroll, you must go to their website here http://www.friendsindeedpas.org/get-involved/ralphs-community-contribution-program/ and link your rewards cards and/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.
Update on my 1st children's book, Color Isn't Who I AM © 2019: There was a minor setback on its suggested retail pricing but it's just the setup for my God to come through. When He does, my book will be on a bookshelf near you.
Be on the lookout for the relaunch of my non-profit organization, Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.). Although I am willing to carry out my plans solo, I would be remiss if I didn't extend an invitation to ALL willing volunteers to help me serve our communities by accepting a significant role as a committed and trusted board member, or a contributor of time (physical volunteer work), monies, supplies, and/or resources. My appreciation is extended to anyone that can help facilitate making an impact in surrounding at-risk and underprivileged communities throughout Southern California. Part of our mission is to help supply the homeless as well as needy families with food and hygiene bags throughout the year and especially during the holidays and to serve as mentors and/or advocates for at-risk youth and victims of abuse. Reach out to me regarding your interest in service or to arrange another form of contribution; contact me via email at fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com, or leave a voicemail and/or text at (951) 790-2127.

Respectfully,

Monday, March 8, 2021

Refocus (3/7/2021)

SALUTATIONS: Greetings Everyone, I hope you have had a wonderful week. You ever start the morning off great, then somewhere down the line you get distracted by life, social media, emotions, or some other diversion? Welp, that is a weekly - daily battle for me. Yall who have been part of this ministry since I began many years ago, know how tough it's been for me to stay consistent. I'll be the first to admit, it's always due to my loss of focus. Tonight we're going to discuss practical ways to refocus our attention on the Lord. Let's get right into it. As always, take time to review ALL of the Announcements, Healthy Living Tips, and other information detailed below, following the Reflections and Power in Prayer, whenever time permits. Your continued support is always appreciated. Keep spreading 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: I am grateful to be here delivering another word to you all. Abba, Father, we thank you through our struggles, we praise you for our past trials, our current obstacles, and our future triumphs. Help us in our unbelief. Hallelujah! If you have a specific praise report, please share, because we “overcame [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 women who struggle with fertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, and/or loss of a child. Let's continue to pray for one another and thank 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 download your FREE copy here https://rb.gy/niy4go). 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 amidst adversity… Ponder this: "Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses. Focus on your character, not your reputation. Focus on your blessings, not your misfortunes" (Roy T. Bennett). 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. If you need someone to help you get there, or you're looking for an accountability partner, you've come to the right place. Here I am.

FEATURED SONGS OF PRAISE: "God Great God" by Kurt Carr (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/upaa5s) and "When You Praise" by Fred Hammond & Radical for Christ (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/hfnigs). 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://rb.gy/wtbmva.

**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: I don't know about yall, but I have been on a 20 plus year journey to find self-discipline and consistency. Every time I think I've mastered it, BOOM, life happens. Or does it? Often we blame the devil for our poor decisions, and even more baffling, we often blame God. But who's really at fault? Every day is an opportunity for us to make good or bad choices, right? True, God allows every temptation the enemy presents us with. However, it is YOU, it is ME, it is US who make our daily DECISIONS whether in wisdom or folly. So again, who can we blame but self?

That's tough, right? I know. I don't always want to swallow that horse pill either, but it's reality. Happiness is a choice. Joy is a choice. You can mope around and complain about what's going on in your life all you want. Did you take time to consider how you may have gotten there? When I almost lost my home to foreclosure, I had to accept the fact that me quitting a good-paying, stable position with the federal prison system without a backup plan was a poor decision. I had already depleted my savings to front the closing costs as opposed to saving up for them before I hastily purchased my home. I also hadn't considered the miscellaneous expenses that came with homeownership - more expenses that tapped out my savings accounts. Naturally, when I came close to losing my home, people wanted to comfort me by saying Satan was attacking me. However, he wasn't. It was God allowing me to learn a lesson while taking me the scenic route of my journey.

When God brought the Israelites out of Egypt and they built the tabernacle, that temporary dwelling moved when the Lord moved, it was still when the Lord was still. Could He have just taken them straight to the promised land? Absolutely, but He didn't, because they lacked trust. With every complaint, He had to show them how they lost their focus and He'd refocus their attention on Him by sentencing them to deserved consequences for their CHOICE to complain though He provided every NEED. God knows the end result and how to lead us there, however, He often allows the detours to distract us from our destiny so that we can pick up a lesson along the way. We've lost our focus on God and have allowed our distractions - our detours to keep us focused on the things of this world.

Proverbs 4:25 says, "Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee." We need to concentrate on the desires that keep us God-centered. It is necessary to place boundaries on the things we're feeding our internal selves; mindset is developed by allowing the opinions of others to define us, or allowing insecurities to settle within as we compare ourselves to someone else. I read a quote earlier today that said something to the effect of "popcorn kernels enter the same pot with the same oil but not all the kernels pop at the same time"; someone else's journey isn't yours. God doesn't need our help to usher us into status, materials, relationships, or anything else. But like Peter, we lose sight of God when we focus on the wrong things. In the Book of Matthew, Peter was walking fine on the water with all the elements the same, but then he shifted his focus away from God and to the wind, only then did he begin to sink (read Matthew 14:28-30 here https://rb.gy/uhntmv); Peter's circumstances hadn't changed, the wind and waves were already surrounding the ship when Jesus called Peter to Him, but when he "saw" the wind, he was "afraid." Here's the thing, our circumstances only scare and worry us because we've grown so comfortable with shifting our attention away from the Lord, that we've forgotten how to refocus our attention to Him.

"Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest" (Hebrews 3:1, NIV). The apostles are acknowledging Jesus as the Apostle of the apostles - the master teacher, and the Chief of all the high priests; the Lord is our Authority, or Leader, one whom we should follow, listen to, and obey. In following, that means to walk with Him, learn His Word and His decrees so that we become more like Him, allowing our spirits to be lead by His Holy Spirit so that our desires mature and we can distinguish the difference between affection for materials as opposed to sustenance and contentment with necessity. As we refocus our attention, we're able to consider the Lord's significance in and over our lives. Think about it, if your desires and habits aren't pushing you in the right direction (toward a deeper relationship with God, self-improvement, spiritual growth), then they aren't serving you. When you're focused and following the Lord, you're walking in forgiveness, love, and service to others in the world, NOT trying to figure out how you can be serviced by the things and people of this world.

To "fix" your thoughts on the Lord is to securely fasten your attention to the Word so that your mindset postures you, and helps you to approach your circumstances with a positive attitude. As you "look straight" you aren't allowing your peripheral vision to affect your focus. And as you "set your affection on the things above" you are being trained to love the things that mature your relationship with God. Don't be sidetracked by the detours of temptation. The difference between a Christian who is content and one who is consumed by worries is the object of their focus. When you refocus your attention to the Lord, your focus is on your BEST outcome, everything else is out of focus because all you're giving attention to is the feelings YOU've attached to the circumstance. Neither God, the devil, nor your circumstances are responsible for how YOU choose to FOCUS your attention and energy to manifest your happiness, contentment, and joy. Refocus your attention on God so that your circumstance doesn't lead you to falsely accuse the devil or the Lord for your blurred vision. #SOW

POWER IN PRAYER: POWER IN PRAYER: Father God, King of kings, Lord of lords, our Deliverer, our Provider, we thank you for your everlasting love and grace. We thank you for the gift of salvation we inherited through the blood of your Son, Jesus. We thank you for the resilience, strength, power, and self-discipline that we've been equipped with, and for your Spirit's guidance to help us tap into those Christ-like characteristics so that we are an embodiment of your written word. Father, we call upon you with aching hearts for the mothers who have suffered inhospitable wombs that have terminated their desired pregnancies and robbed them of the joy of motherhood. We need you to touch the mothers who have lost a child to miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, or some other unfortunate circumstance. But Lord, we know that not every one of those women we're praying for was entering motherhood as a single mother. So, we thank you for not only healing the void caused by the loss of a child to those women, but also to the fathers who were present and who stepped up to train their children in the way they should go; for every parent who has suffered the loss of a child at any stage of development, we thank you for your grace, love, comfort, and triumph over their grief. If you will it, we ask for you to touch the barren wombs, tame the inhospitable wombs, and protect those future men and women of the world before, during, and after their conception, and give their parents the strength, patience, and know-how to handle every circumstance. In the name of your Son, Jesus, we ask that you accelerate every Christ-like trait within us so that we may fully mature in you. Transform our misery, our disbelief, our doubts, our worries, our fears, and our insecurities into peace and joy as we refocus our attention to you so that we will trust and allow you to work through us to carry out the purpose you have over our lives. Thank you for helping us to avoid every detour that leads to distraction and temptation. Thank you for helping us to fix our eyes on you and consider your ways over our own. May your will be done in our lives, and may our trust in you be secure enough to render this request genuine in your sight. As your angels and Holy Spirit do your bidding on Earth and in Heaven, protect us and them with your recourse as you bind, loose, and cast out the demonic spirits of distraction, destruction, retaliation, revenge, and backlash. All these things we ask in the matchless name of Yeshua, Amen!

HEALTHY LIVING TIPS: Change begins within... I have another quick full-body workout for you this week, although, I didn't time this one so I cannot give you the exact time frame. I encourage you to just pound out each circuit (one round/set of each exercise) taking a 40-second break between each circuit, or a 10 to 15-second break between each set/round of reps. Here it goes:

4 rounds of chin-ups - how many reps you do is purely up to your capabilities, post covid, I can only do about 4 each set. The main difference between a pullup and a chin-up is the position of your hand-grip on the bar; your grip should be facing you for a chin-up. Now, if you don't have a pullup bar, then alternatively, you can do a bent-over dumbbell row (use something with some weight, like canned food if you don't have dumbbells). Both exercises work out your biceps, triceps, and shoulders to improve your upper body strength, posture, and strengthen back muscles to help stabilize the spine.
4 rounds of 30-rep lateral reach for ankle crunches - (lay on your back and lift in a crunch, leaning side to side as you reach for your ankles; a reach for each ankle constitutes one rep) these crunches help to strengthen your oblique and transverse abdominal muscles.
4 rounds of 15-rep weighted situps with a Russian twist at the up position - situps help to improve core strength, which contributes to improved posture and lessens your chance for back injuries in later years. Russian twists slim your midsection increases your core balance and strength, works your obliques, hip flexors, and transverse muscles.
4 rounds of 20-rep wall pushups (alternating each rep between wide and close hand) - pushups activate your chest and tricep muscles, builds upper body strength, strengthen your back, and can also improve core strength and posture.
4 rounds of 30-rep squats (use a leg band to increase your resistance) - squats work your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Engage your core by holding in your abs as you complete each rep, which will work your abdominal muscles. If you want to challenge yourself, add ankle weights and/or add an alternate leg lift at the standing position after each squat.

Don't forget to stretch before and after any exercise routine, to reduce achy muscles and to prevent injuries. As always, be mindful of the things you feed your body, both physically and figuratively. Be safe, be blessed, and prioritize your health and wellbeing!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Join me for the Neighborhood Beautification Project in Los Angeles, taking place on Saturday, March 27th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the West Athens area. If you're interested in physically joining this crusade, donating supplies, and/or know of resources or contacts that can assist in this venture, hit me up.
If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, I invite you to join my virtual support group via Zoom; we meet every 3rd Sunday at 2:30 PST. Just text "heal" to (323) 800-8616 to be added to our text notifications/reminders.
Help me get FMBS Inc. back active in the community yall! I'd like to start regular community beautification projects, homeless outreach, and live workshops that will provide guidance, mentorship, resources, and helpful information for at-risk youth. Here's the thing, I don't know how to do any of this, but I'm willing to learn; if you have any helpful information or affordable training opportunities please share.
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. To enroll, you must go to their website here http://www.friendsindeedpas.org/get-involved/ralphs-community-contribution-program/ and link your rewards cards and/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.
Update on my 1st children's book, Color Isn't Who I AM © 2019: There was a minor setback on its suggested retail pricing but it's just the setup for my God to come through. When He does, my book will be on a bookshelf near you.
Be on the lookout for the relaunch of my non-profit organization, Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.). Although I am willing to carry out my plans solo, I would be remiss if I didn't extend an invitation to ALL willing volunteers to help me serve our communities by accepting a significant role as a committed and trusted board member, or a contributor of time (physical volunteer work), monies, supplies, and/or resources. My appreciation is extended to anyone that can help facilitate making an impact in surrounding at-risk and underprivileged communities throughout Southern California. Part of our mission is to help supply the homeless as well as needy families with food and hygiene bags throughout the year and especially during the holidays and to serve as mentors and/or advocates for at-risk youth and victims of abuse. Reach out to me regarding your interest in service or to arrange another form of contribution; contact me via email at fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com, or leave a voicemail and/or text at (951) 790-2127.

Respectfully,