Living In A World We Don’t Understand

aaroads.com

Many times we are faced with bridges in our paths. Some are too icy, too wet, too damaged, too flawed, or just plain difficult. We fight ourselves with the overwhelming decisions and mentality of “what if, I should have, I am no good, I am too difficult, I can’t smile, or I am not the best choice, etc.” Earlier this month, we spoke about passion and purpose so, I want to ensure you that based on that purpose and that wonderful passion – YOU MEAN SOMETHING – YOU ARE HERE FOR A REASON – YOU MATTER – REGARDLESS OF WHAT ANYONE ELSE OR YOURSELF THINKS!

Today, we address and talk about Bipolar disorder. What it is, how one deals with it, and how family and friends can just learn some simple kindness techniques to share with those that suffer from the condition. This is where those bridges comes in. Individuals with Bipolar disorder get up gradually everyday and face many different bridges than we face. However, it is up to each of us to be there to help and guide them through each step of the way.

“Bipolar disorder is extreme changes in mood, thoughts, energy, and behaviors. It is a manic depression where individuals experience highs and lows, unlike normal depression. BiPolar disorder can sometimes last for hours, days, weeks, and/or months. Despite what some believe though – BiPolar Disorder is NOT a CHARACTER FLAW nor is it a PERSONAL WEAKNESS!” (bghope.com – pg. 5 in the book)

Individuals with BiPolar disorder cannot seem to get it together on most days out of the month and well, the other half of the month they can be fully functioning with no signs or symptoms. It doesn’t mean they are healed, it just means they have a few good days where Bipolar doesn’t consume their daily life. It is up to each of us to fully understand the disorder and to move forward accordingly to aid and support our friends and family with this disorder. Which is why we move towards Stephen Propst’s piece of kindness when it comes to family and friends with this heartbreaking condition.

Twenty Acts of Kindness by Stephen Propst (Not exact words however, I will still quote it)

1. “Invites – Inviting someone to lunch or dinner can mean far more than just a meal. Have some flexibility and invite the individual to choose where and when they would like to go and eat.”
2. “Urge family functions – Even if individuals are not blood relatives, still invite them. Some do not have families of their own so, including them in yours can make a real difference.”
3. “Have simple get togethers – Invite individuals to go out after work or take them to work functions. Individuals who may be unemployed may generally like to network and enjoy the real time experience.”
4. “Stay involved – Send random text just to say hi or I am thinking about you. Just letting someone know you are still here and thinking about them means a lot.”
5. “Be consistent – Individuals who experience crisis or just may be having a bad day in general love to have someone to talk to, someone just to be a listening ear. Discard advice and just be there and be consistent in their life.”
6. “Be educable – Share and learn about the disorders an individuals has. Nothing shows you care more than by engaging with the individual about the conditions they face daily.”
7. “Be spontaneous – Send a card, email, or text filled with compassion. Written words generally mean more and express effort however, phone calls always help too.”
8. “Express your thoughts – Tell the individual how much they mean to you. This can be such a boost to their mental health and self-esteem.”
9. “No shaming – If you see and individual who doesn’t engage with social media, understand this may be a trigger and may cause them some harm. Do not shame them for it or make sly jokes. Instead, be the bridge that keeps them in tune with society and ensure they are still knowledgeable about upcoming events they may be interested in. They may not see them so, you could be the only one that keeps them informed.”
10. “Be persistent – Individuals may decline an invitation multiple times. That is okay, continue inviting them as they could always change their mind.”
11. “Talk – Your never have to talk about the same things. Try changing the subject sometimes. If you tend to talk about their disorder, try talking about something they are interested in. Never feel obligated to continue talking about the same thing however, understand what peaks an individuals interest.”
12. “Be forward – Don’t ever talk behind someone’s back. Being forward with someone can show that you have good intentions.”
13. “It is not personal – Individuals tend to have outburst or say something that may hurt your feelings. Don’t take it personal, it may just be a symptom of their disorder.”
14. “Be truthful – Help individuals seek the truth about their disorder. There are so many myths however, you can help someone surface the truth, together.”
15. “Dinner? – Sometimes individuals have a challenging time getting up and doing the simple things for themselves. Instead of hounding them about what they cannot do, make them some dinner and drop it off. Your concern about their health and safety will stand out.”
16. “Check-In – Certain conditions leave individuals missing or unheard from for quite sometime. Check in on your friends and family. Show you haven’t forgotten about them over the course of their quietness.”
17. “It is okay to ask questions – Ask them how they are doing, how they have been, etc. However, never assume or comment negatively.”
18. “Acknowledgement – Understand that not everything may seem small, even if it feels small to you. Perception is everything and just acknowledging small accomplishments makes individuals strive for better in all ways.”
19. “Prayer – Sometimes it truly is the simple things. In many instances we are left only to PRAY. Whether individuals know or not know is up to you. Sometimes praying with them is so much better than praying alone however, that still may be necessary depending on the situation.”
20. “Patience – NEVER GIVE UP ON SOMEONE! You may be all they have so please, please, please be patient and kind.”

This article was pulled from Page 15 of BP Hope – You can also look it up online at bphope.com (Mind Over Mood)

Bring kind can get us and other individuals so far in life than we think. However, it doesn’t end there. It is important to know what can be possible triggers or set backs for individuals with Bipolar disorder. We need to understand what to avoid or what can be set-backs for individuals.

Very Well Mind

Working in mental health has shown me that the list and expand by so many more items however, we will keep it at a minimum. Through so simple acts of kindness listed above and understanding triggers life can be so much more wonderful for you and others. We all want to see others succeed and it might just be you that makes the difference. We often look at individuals and judge based on actions, how they are dressed, or if their hair is a mess – we do this instead of looking deeper to see what may be their internal issues instead of their outer. We do it in the moment and dismiss them just because we may not feel what they feel or see what they see. We must end the stigmas, the judgements, etc. We must be there for others needs (NOT AS A SAVIOR however, AS A CONCERNED FAMIKY OR FRIEND).

Will you start today? Will you be someone’s balance? Their aid and encouragement? Can you commit to introducing those twenty steps of kindness into your life starting today?

I am wishing you all a fantastic year. May it bring forth happiness and joy. May be abundant in every step. May you obtain wisdom and have spectacular health. With it may you be able to bless those around you. Enjoy your Saturday as we are almost finished with one month a new one shall come. Be blessed Then There Was Hope Family.

Livelifehappy.com

Passion and Purpose

We often seek fulfillment from man-made achievements, blessings, and worldly items. We overlook the missions, visions, and adequate help from something far more spiritual than ourselves. We often forget that we were birthed, equally and unapologetically, with passion and purpose.

So, to start, what is passion? Passion according to the dictionary is a “strong and barely controllable emotion” or “an intense desire or enthusiasm for something.” Now, there is something that constantly surfaces your mind when you are thinking about. It often pulls your heart and makes it feel on fire when the random thoughts cross your mind. It is the random thoughts that you are unstoppable when aiming to achieve this very thing. Maybe it is your degree, human rights, civil rights, family, friends, hobbies, security, finances, sports, etc. No matter what is is, THIS IS YOUR PASSION! So, Tab, what does this have to do with anything?

With your passion comes purpose! Purpose, context of the dictionary, would be “the reason for which something is done or created or which something exists.” Also, “a person’s sense of resolve or determination.” Now, you can start putting two and two together on your own however, just in case you cannot I will lay it out… PASSION AND PURPOSE GO TOGETHER… HAND IN HAND! We live this life with a purpose yet, we are required to form the passion on our own to gather our own knowledge on what our purpose is. Sounds insane right?

Matthew 6:21 says,

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

PASSION AND PURPOSE!!!!!!!!!

Passion is about EMOTION whereas Purpose is the reason BEHIND THE EMOTIONS! Passion will forever come before purpose as passion ignites the flames – purpose just keeps the flames burning.

We often see individuals doing some kind of work they are not passionate about and it shows in their mentality. Since you all know that I relatively use my own experiences to give examples, I will save the time and energy of going through the disclaimer of I use my own stories : )

I was able to be a part of some amazing things this past summer during the 2020 chaos and confusion, pandemic, and racial demonizing we endured. I was also able to partner with a few organizations to advocate and help in areas that were much needed, maybe a time will come to share those stories. However, I joined one and never felt so out of place. When we seek change it is apparent to ensure that we are not being picky when we choose where change is established in our lives. Sometimes it can take you by surprise. I thought this organization (as I might add does not have the current credentials to be named as such) would be the one that aided in encouraging the change the community and I sought out for. Instead what I found was a masked delivery of things the community wished for but this org lacked. Four months of my life chewed, swallowed, and spit back up in my face. Four months of hearing how diversity and inclusion meant so much yet, the first sign of opposing was a no go (only for white people). Beyond that, I watched as funding was accumulated by asking the community for help yet, those funds were never used for actually helping the community. Instead members were forced to commit even if they had little themselves, which that was okay… it was principle. For months, I sat observing and taking everything in until I couldn’t resolve my feelings/emotions towards the selfishness, greed, envy, hostility, and savior mentality. The org had a wonderful sense of purpose yet, there was simply no passion. Without these two things, there is nothing but one and it doesn’t fit the servicing that one would recommend.

Hence, the importance of knowing both and utilizing both as we proceed into 2021, with extreme caution. Our lives are constantly changing due to the unforeseen events of today. We are not promised today nor tomorrow as we venture out into our homes, grocery store, or our jobs. We must be ready in case we lose it all. We need the passion and the purpose yet, we have to listen to where our heart and minds are calling us. An article on Very Well Mind (https://www.verywellmind.com/tips-for-finding-your-purpose-in-life-4164689) stated seven tips that someone could use in order to find purpose in their life.

Donate time, money, or talent

Listen to feedback

Surround yourself with positive people

Start new conversations with new people

Explore your interest

Consider injustices that bother you

Discover what you love to do

https://www.verywellmind.com/tips-for-finding-your-purpose-in-life-4164689

Now, I agree with most of these however, I think they can be summed up in less than seven tips… don’t you? In fact, I would think many of us are passionate people so finding the purpose should be reasonable, right? We are three days into the new year so channeling our heart, mind, and spirit into one is a big must. We have an entire year to get the things we want done completed. We have the opportunity to start now and get that business off the ground. We have the time to start writing, to get that degree, to finish a hobby, to apply for that sport. We are starting fresh and what better way to do it then by generating the mindset… digging deep to surface the passion… and engaging that the passion leads to the purpose.

Let this year be the year that you succeed so much that even you are blown away. Some of us don’t know you and we are rooting for your success. I look at Facebook and see how it started and what it has become. You can be that very same product of completion, you just have to start. Facebook now generates ads based on what we say out loud… I swear it does. I was on wayfair attempting to find a new bathroom sink all while talking to my husband about it and next thing you know I had thirty sink ads on Facebook. Remember, we are what we speak. Be your own ad and stop relying on someone else. We work jobs because we don’t really have a choice if we want to survive… learn to channel your own income through your passion and purpose. Speak what you desire into existence and watch the world as you know it manifest into what you were looking for.

I look forward to our future together. May today be the start of your new future.

The Ones Who Cry “Wolf”

Matthew 10:16,

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”

Also know as: Calling for help when it is not directly needed!

It always amazed me how unaccountable we all are, of course in our very own way. However, this isn’t the most striking characteristic that blows my mind. The one thing that always sends me overboard into total disbelief is the ones who do not hold themselves accountable but “cry wolf” with everything they do… the ones that are extra, as in they could be crying wolf and be asleep… are you familiar with the kind??

Aesop’s Fable is an extraordinary fable that sheds light on how we view many individuals who “cry wolf.” The young boy was manipulative, narcissistic, and abusive to his role. However, this did not stop the villagers from coming to his aid the first few times he cried out claiming there was a wolf amongst the midst of the sheep. It is later that we realize that even the villagers suffered consequences behind this young boy. Let me explain:

Image Credit goes to Northpoint Centre of Learning

The villagers, being of due diligence, attempted to run to every beckoning call this young boy had, however, at the end of the story we see that the villagers lacked to run to the boys call and in return the young boy and the sheep have been slaughtered by the wolf. How necessary is it to say that they suffered from not running to the boys call? Just as in everything we do, we do it believing that individuals have good intentions, and when we find out who they are, we distance ourselves, we do not answers their calls, text, or messages. We ignore them to our fullest potential because we have been used, mistreated, and our kindness has been taken out of context. However, is this what God has intended for us to do? Also, how familiar does this sound to situations you have encountered recently, or by past experiences?

Not only did they have to receive the consequences of losing their sheep and this young boy, the watcher of the flock, but they then had to pay the consequences of the other villagers who may not have been happy about their choices. Just as in this modern day world, we have individuals who “cry wolf” and there is nothing absolutely wrong, except for themselves. They have found ways to manipulate situations, ways to abuse those helping them when they call, and ways to disregard the facts of being unaccountable in their lies.

Did you know that an article on Psychology Today, released July 1st, 2004 stated that

“They are not acting out of boredom. In fact, these damsels in distress (closely referring to the three women who fabricated stories of sexual assault, kidnapping, and abuse) are very often motivated by an intense desire for attention and may feel unfairly neglected by those close to them, often romantic partners. Others are simply crying out to a world they feels ignores them.”

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200407/crying-wolf-fabricated-crimes

Therefore, knowing this how do we deal with those individuals who “cry wolf” because the Christian thing to do doesn’t always help, right?

1. We access the information, because
2. We know that it could potentially be false.
3. We never let them know that we are underestimating their story, just allow them to know that we are looking into details to find out what we can do to help (specific areas).
4. Never allow yourself to be victimized by the individual “crying wolf.”
5. The bible says to help others in versus such as: Hebrews 13:16, Philippians 2:4, Galatians 6:2, Acts 20:35, John 15:12, Romans 12:13, 1 John 4:19-20, Ephesians 2:10, Matthew 5:13-16, and Romans 12:20.
6. We help others out of the kindness of our hearts and because it is the law that God has laid before us, however, we heed the warning of: 2 Corinthians 11:14 (manipulation), Matthew 24:40 (manipulation), James 1:8 (instability), Proverbs 22:24 (abuse/anger), Proverbs 29:22 (abuse/anger), Proverbs 6:16-19 (the six things the Lord hates), Psalm 101:7 (lying), Proverbs 24:28 (manipulation/lying), Proverbs 21:6 (manipulation/lying/deceit), and Exodus 23:1 (lying).
7. We then stand on the values and morals that Christ has laid before us: Matthew 7:12, 1 Corinthians 15:33, Romans 12:2, Colossians 3:9, Ephesians 5:15-16, Ephesians 4:32, and Ephesians 2:9.
8. Lastly, We follow God’s commandments:

The Ten Commandments
Photo Credit to Amazon.com

These eight bullet points may not keep individuals from “crying wolf” however, it will help in how you interact with them.

From a personal experience:

I once helped someone because they said they needed help (the first time). Then, they called and said they needed help again (the second time), so I ran to their aid. Then, they called numerous times after (third, forth, fifth… etc), and once I again I ran to their aid. Finally, my husband sat me down and said, “you have to know the difference of when they need help and when they are using you.” That statement stuck with me, this individual was “crying wolf” and never actually needed me, they were instead just using me. I was paying bills, giving rides, sharing resources, letting this individual borrow items (and large items at that)… in the end, I paid the consequences of doing to much and letting them go. I was now a person they targeted and aimed to receive social interaction (fame) based on a hoax of violence. When seeking for the help (far less than I expressed to this individual), I was given false hope and deceit that I would receive the help that I needed during this trying time. It was then that my eyes were fully awakened and God was able to shed light on the history and context of our relationship.

The moral of this story, is I did the very Christian thing I could do, I helped until I realized that help was something this individual did not need. Now, I have sought to use my spiritual discernment in the order that God has intended me to. I have been able to understand and visually see the Narcissistic Disorder in many individuals that have stepped in when they thought I was weak. In the end, it is not about what you are doing for them, it is about how much they can get from you. Therefore, I leave you with this, Be Careful Of The One’s Who “Cry Wolf.” Not all individuals are seeking your best interest, some are coming to destroy you, to take your sanity, to steal your joy, and to rip your inheritance from you (John 10:10). Trust God when He sends the signs that you need to stop doing what you are doing for individuals. However, this does not mean that you do not forgive and move forward, in fact God says that in Matthew 6:14-15 that, ^“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Keep Your Eyes on the Signs

• Sense of Self-Importance
• Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love
• Belief they are special and unique and can only be understood or associate with others of high-status individuals or institutions
• Need an abundance of admiration (positive or negative)
• Sense of entitlement (may not show until years later)
• Interpersonally exploitative behavior
• Lack of empathy
• Envious of others or a belief that other individuals are envious of them
• Lastly, they demonstrate arrogant, egotistical, or haughty behaviors and/or attitudes.

In Reference to the Signs, They May Say:

• “You need me, You cannot do this without me, Let me help you because you do not understand.” (Initiating a sense of self-importance regarding any role in your life.)
• “I have the best job and the income is more than you can imagine, do you want to work for me… or… I pay xx amount towards where I rent and it is far more that you can afford… or… I work at this establishment, I seen someone we mutually know and had a long talk (meanwhile, the individual just wanted to get out of line) referring to someone considering they have power.” (Do not let these statements fool you, they are in depth and real life conversations that have been stated from actual narcissistic individuals.
• “You do not understand what I am saying, therefore I need to break it down to your level” (Insinuating that you are unintelligent and able to comprehend those higher level words they are using, also, initiating sequences to make you feel less about yourself.
• This is not an actual sentence, however from previous experience, one would seek positive attention by involving themselves in environments and gaining attention, once the positive attention is gone, they will then seek the negative attention with “I don’t care how they talk or look at me” attitudes.
• “You owe me for this, You should be grateful I did this for you.” (This individual will claim an entitlement to anything you own, material and nonmaterial, this step is vital that you remain guarded and guided by God or they will strip everything from you.)
• This portion is not in a sentence form, however, this person will now use you to get them where they need to be. They will take advantage of you on their own levels so they can progress.
• The lack of empathy reveals that this individual does not have a personal relationship with you. This is not referring to sympathy, however, does refer to the initial thoughts of what we refer to as “walking in others shoes.”
• Envious or claimant of envious individuals is not always the case… I have heard narcissist claim, “I do not envy anybody, they have nothing I want!” Yet, in the same order, will underhandedly take everything they own within moments.
• A narcissist may not always show these signs in the beginning of any relationship, however, it will show at anytime thereafter. Monitor these behaviors and write them down in unique places to reflect on when God starts giving you that level of discernment.

You see, when we deal with individuals, we want to reap no consequences. However, this is far from possible, as every action has a reaction. We learn as we go. We have all the right motives and we act on those right motives until we are completely burdened and burned out. No more, I claim today that you adhere to God’s knowledge and instruction and that you are clearly able to discern between “help and use.” God has already declared that we were sheep and that He was sending us out among wolves (Matthew 10:16)… the goal is to not be devoured!

Photo Credit: Limerick City Church
Sheep Among Wolves

Last of Praying and Preying

Sometimes in life we get knocked off track and life overwhelms us with sickness and a busy schedule. In my house over the last few weeks, sharing has been caring, due to sickness. We are maneuvering back to a normal lifestyle, therefore, it is evident that I finish this series. God laid it upon me for those that need to be informed, therefore, I will finish my calling (for God’s glory).

Praying or Preying (week 3 & 4)

I needed to discern, to be guided, to be in the most spiritualist realm I could be. I needed to hear God when I asked the question of are they praying on me or preying on me. I needed God’s structure, and I needed to be able to hear His every word when He gave me the insight He so intended for me to have.

I sought His face, His word, His wisdom, His intelligence and much more. I had to set myself back in order to gain the very answers I needed. As I evaluated much of my life, much of my thoughts, much of my actions, I had to see that I was accountable for how others thought of me, acted toward me, and preyed for me. Notice: I said preyed, not prayed!

I had to realize that God also needed to help me take accountability for those things I was doing in order for those to prey on me. How exactly do you fix yourself so that you can discern what the enemy is doing? How exactly do you take accountability for something you do not even realize is happening? Then, how do you move forward?

Accountability – the fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility.

Discernment – perception in the absence of judgment with a view to obtaining spiritual guidance and understanding.

Preying – take advantage of; exploit or injure or cause constant trouble and distress to.

Praying – address a solemn request or expression of thanks to a deity or other object of worship or wish or hope strongly for a particular outcome or situation.

As we take a look, let us indulge a little deeper on how each one relates to the other.

Accountability – Romans 14:12, Galatians 6:1-5, James 5:16, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Proverbs 27:17, Luke 17:3, Matthew 12:36-37, Hebrews 4:13, etc.

Discernment – 1 John 4:1, Philippians 1:9-10, Hebrews 5:14, Hebrews 4:12, 1 Kings 3:9, Romans 12:2, James 1:5, 1 Corinthians 2:14, etc.

Preying – 1 Corinthians 10:13, Revelation 2:1-29, 1 Timothy 4:1-5, Isaiah 65:25, Numbers 14:3, Numbers 31:27, Kings-2 21:14, Psalms 17:12, etc.

Praying – John 15:7, Philippians 4:6, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Romans 8:26, Matthew 21:22, Exodus 14:14, 1 Corinthians 14:15, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, etc.

**NOTE THAT ALL SCRIPTURE IS PROVIDED THROUGH OPENBIBLE.COM DURING THIS BLOG POST.

Accountability and discernment give not just you, but others the notion that you/them are accountable in all things (right and wrong). It can hurt people’s feelings, make them turn their backs on you, however, those that leave were the ones preying on you instead of those praying for you.

Accountability, Discernment and Praying are all vital to having positive relationships with other individuals. Whether this be of a friendship or spousal relationship. However, it is necessary for all of us to take accountability for our actions, learn the motives of others, and be able to process what God has intended for us to process. God’s design was not the desire of evil, although evil inhabits the world. Therefore, in order to know what we are to do and how we are to carry about, we must be accountable and discern when someone is preying upon each of us, and even those we have relationships with. Also, I want you to know that you will not get it right everytime, there will be many times as your journey expands that the enemy will disguise themselves to look as if they are truly praying when indeed they are preying.

Always stay on alert until God has given you the notion to move forward!

I hope that you all have enjoyed this mini-series and I deeply apologize on the delay. February was an awful month of sickness and we will be working towards getting back on track sooner than later. I love writing to you all and enjoy the wisdom that God has instilled within me.

I hope that you enjoy the rest of your Sunday, and may you have a prosperous week. Happy March 2020!

Before you go, do you have a subject you do not understand? If so, email me via thentherewashope1@gmail.com so that we can discuss what it is. Also, if you would like for me to do a series (of any kind) just email me at the same address and surely it will be in your news feed, when you look again. Thank you for all of your love and support as this journey has been nothing short of amazing.

Discernment of Praying and Preying

Let’s Recap from Praying and Preying week 1

These questions were asked on February 9th, 2020. The answers were meant to be left on the comment section from before, however, that did not tend to happen as sometimes things do not go according to plan.

• Are you Praying?
• Are you Preying?
• Are you the one who is Preying on someone else?
• What are your reasons?
• What do you mean when you tell someone you are Praying for them?
• Do you consider the actions, motives, and rewards of others who claim to be praying for you? Also, do you consider your actions, motives, and/or rewards?
• Have you researched the 132 mentions of “Pray” in the Bible? or the 128 instances of “Prey?”
• How is your relationship with God, and how does that motivate you to be thoughtful when sending a prayer up for someone else.

My answers are as follows:

• I always pray for others, even when they have hurt me. I believe that God sends us individuals that help us learn lessons sometimes. It is still the God in me that sees the best in everyone regardless of the bad they have done. Therefore, praying is always a conversation with God that I know I can have on their behalf.
• I would like to say that I have never “preyed” on anyone but that would be telling you a lie. A few years ago, I preyed on someone very hard. I made their life a mess and every day I have had to seek God to ask for forgiveness for my actions.
• When I tell someone I am praying for them, I mean that I am stopping what I am doing and I am going to God on their behalf in pursuit of what they have going on in their life. If someone is sick, I am asking for healing. If someone is heartbroken, then I am asking God to mend them and show them that they are better than what has broken them. If they are grieving, then I am asking God to give them relief, to know that God now has a great angel among them that will always look out for them. These things may not be the specific prayer that I send up for someone, but it is the idea that God can complete you, even when someone else goes to Him for the prayer you are asking for.
• My reasoning, not everyone is praying for your best. In fact, many pray on the downfall. God has equipped me to have the conversation with Him, even if I have nothing to gain.
• I always consider motives of others and myself. If I did not consider them, then I would have no idea how to handle myself when those downfall prayers arose on my behalf. I need to be equipped and able to stand in the armor that God has generated me with.
• I have researched all scriptures regarding pray, praying, prey, and preying.
• My relationship with God is far from perfect. I am still learning as I go, however, I truly believe that when we are grounded in His word, and when we have those conversations (prayer) with Him then we will continue to walk in the paths that He has directed. I have a long way to go and my religion cannot be a religion without first making it my lifestyle.

Discernment of Praying and Preying

1 John 4:1 says, Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Every person you meet may not have the best intentions towards you. Therefore, it is up to you to understand your gift of discernment and be able to utilize the gift to know if they are for you or against you. In the acts of praying or preying, we have to utilize the gift to know how to uphold our position in the most Christlike form we possibly can. Even knowing that someone may set out to intentionally harm us spirtually, financially, mentally, or emotionally we must carry on in the form that Christ has intended us to.

The issues can arise when we are not under the full armor of God, the enemy can come in and strip of those valuables that God has intended for us to have. So, let me ask you this… Do you use discernment when dealing with individuals? How is it helping you? How has the discernment equipped you to deal with those who may even harm you? Have you made yourself aware of those praying or preying upon you?

As you address these questions within yourself, I want you to research biblical truths that revolve around discernment. In order to do this you may need to find yourself isolated from individuals who could potentially harm your spirit in this process. After you have researched discernment, apply your knowledge of pray and prey, praying and preying and I want you to seek wisdom and knowledge through a communicative relationship with Christ. This can take as long as needed, once you have finished, I would like for you to write down what God has given you, fold the document in half and place it in your bible. Whenever you feel the need to access this document, I want it to be in a safe place so that you can grab it when you need it. This will be God’s promise to you and a guidance of how He intends for you to deal with situations that arise.

1 John 4:1. Philippians 1:9-10, Hebrews 4:12; 5:14, 1 Kings 3:9, Romans 12:2, James 1:5, 1 Corinthians 2:14, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, Matthew 10:16, and Psalms 119:25 are all wonderful starting places.

If you have any questions please email me at thentherewashope1@gmail.com. I will be willing to assist you in any way I can. I want to see you succeed and be the person that God has designed for you to be.

Are Your Praying or Preying?

Are you Praying or Preying is something that we should truly analyze in our lives daily. Instead of taking the time to analyze whether we want apples or bananas, we should be determining all motives for everything that takes place (past, present, and future).

I once had someone tell me they were “praying” for me, and I never understood the reason why. I never understood their motives, therefore it had made me concerned with their intentions. I had to look unemotionally at their motives, especially as I was down mentally, physically, and emtionally, myself. I had to view the meaning, the why, and the rewards.

I am going to say this unapologetically, as it has happened over and over in my life and in the lives of others. Some will say they are praying, but in reality they are preying. They are coming to take control of the very things that will allow them access to what makes you unique. As they gain this access they will manipulate you, destroy you, and make you feel as you are insane, yet, their highest priority. God created you with discernment so that you may see the motives of those around you. However, that topic will be for another day. Today we address the difference in Praying and Preying. Today we address; is it us, that is praying or preying. What are our key triggers, what are our motives, and what is the cause.

Praying is mentioned 132 times in the bible, whereas Preying accounts for 128 instances. How bizarre right?

Praying is described as an address or a solemn request or expression of thanks to a deity or other object of worship, or a wish or hope strongly for a particular outcome or situation.

Source: Oxford Dictionary

What we know about Prayer is that it is the most intimate from of conversation with God. It is an act of worship, and an form of our response. However, it is something also done on behalf of someone else, as long as it is engaged with true intentions. See, the enemies (devil and/or demons), are also at work. For every prayer we send to God, the enemies will prey just as equally.

Preying, therefore, is known as; to hunt and kill for food, take advantage of; exploit or injure, or to cause constant trouble and distress to.

Oxford Dictionary

Think about everytime an incident hits the news,

Despite the fact that most crime is fairly routine, trivial and non-dramatic, TV programmes such as Crimewatch often pick up on the more serious and violent offences like sexual assault, murder or armed robbery – with reconstructions giving quite a frightening insight into the crime. This focus on the dramatic side of crime is a routine feature on TV programmes or film as well as news reports, and gives a false and misleading impression of the real extent of such crimes.

Courtald, A. (2014, July 11). How the Media Controls Our Perceptions of Crime. Retrieved from Shout Out UK: The Voice of the Next Generation: https://www.shoutoutuk.org/2014/11/08/how-the-media-controls-our-perceptions-of-crime/

Just as in the the quote, we could assume that the news exploits all of us and our crimes only to engage in possible rating. It does seem unreal to say they would be the ones “Preying,” unless you had actually been one that was victimized and the facts were not actually produced. In fact, I was one of those and the entire replay of news castings I watched, showed me they will disregard information, and hide it from the public to get the only story they want. However, the flip side to that is knowing that God has chosen you and when you have a story, regardless of if it ever makes it to the news, you better tell it. No longer be the Prey to what you have Prayed your way out of.

So, in hindsight, let me ask you this… Are you Praying or Preying? I’ve been on the side of both previously and still often speak aloud things I wish I could take back. This is where our motives come in, preying: because you have been hurt, because you want revenge, because you are jealous, etc. The list could honestly go on, but we will leave it at this.

Retrieved from: beforeyouquit.us

How many times have you heard this and went about your natural day knowing that someone has prayed for you. As in you were not the least bit concerned to know if they were truly praying or not? This one sentence, “I am Praying for you” or “I Prayed for you,” gets tossed around from those who do not necessarily mean it. Who knows what exactly they are praying for? Who knows did they even really pray? Did they really have a sentimental conversation with God on your behalf, to help you?

This week, I would like for you to read those questions and determine are you Praying or Preying. Then look in the Bible that you use to find references that resort to outcome of 1. Praying 2. Preying 3. and Discernment (Topic of Week 2).

• Are you Praying?
• Are you Preying?
• Are you the one who is Preying on someone else?
• What are your reasons?
• What do you mean when you tell someone you are Praying for them?
• Do you consider the actions, motives, and rewards of others who claim to be praying for you? Also, do you consider your actions, motives, and/or rewards?
• Have you researched the 132 mentions of “Pray” in the Bible? or the 128 instances of “Prey?”
• How is your relationship with God, and how does that motivate you to be thoughtful when sending a prayer up for someone else.

Next week when we begin “Discernment of Praying and Preying,” I will post my own answers in the comment section of this thread. I hope you all do the same as I look forward to your responses. I want you to relax and prepare yourself for the next three sections of this month. Remember this God loves you and so do I… we will make it!

Inmates With Disabilities Should Not Be Held At The Same Standards As Other Citizens!

Before I begin the blogging series to start the first week in February, I must distinguish the facts of discussion between one of the most heart felt cases I have endured. The case of mental illness and the corruption of the judicial system.

January tenth two-thousand twenty, is a reckoning day for a close relative of mine. It would be a subject that would cause many to turn their noses in disbelief of someone being subjected to the matters at hand. To be subjected on a Felony Statutory Rape Case, convicted by the media, and portrayed as a child rapist is not the path any individual would even begin to want to endure. It would come as no surprise that the judicial system fails those with mental illnesses such as: Bi-polar, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), and Mental Retardation. Upon receipts of those diagnosis, one would proclaim that no action should have been taken, yet, within the judicial system process… it has.

In the case of the mentally retarded (excuse the bluntness of the diagnosis), the rape charge was established anyway. The guideline that those with diagnosis must go through the detention centers own evaluation, despite fiscal evidence of life long illness, is beyond me. When advocating for this individual it was tiring, heart-felt, and discouraging the amount of research on cases such as this. It was informative that the chances of beating such cases is entirely up to the judge, nonetheless the peers on the jury (which mental illness in the form of a jury cannot be determined). Therefore, solely assuming that the jury, being corrupted by the media, would have already determined a decision in the case against this individual.

The issue lies when the Detective on the case was violating the individuals rights under The American Disabilities Act. The course of action was subjected into place by a sanction called a “consent to search” in the city limits and digressed to the county limits under a different case (revolving around the same individual – alleged victim). This should not have taken place as the alleged victim was making a statement of knowledge and distinguishing the difference between the two parties. It would be vital to the courts to take in the information of the ADA, American Disabilities Act, the knowledge of what a “disability” is and the way the impact of such impairments could not constitutionally hold someone with said “mental retardation” impairments at the same equivalency as someone that is considered to be “sane, non-disabled, or indeed a viable citizen with full functions.”

Through guidelines of the judicial system, they should have been able to access the information provided to the Detective and District Attorney in regards to how this individual was processed and held on bail limitations. Disabled individuals are unaware of their rights and are therefore held upon criminal charges, based on their interrogation process. The judicial system has disregarded their rights because they are increasingly subjectible to incriminate themselves, even when a crime is not committed.

Upon the processing of my relative, the bail was set at a substantial value that would leave him no chance of getting a release anytime soon. There are also factors of discrimination and violation of his Fifth and Eighth Amendment, Title II of The American Disability Act and Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act. These can cause a lot of uproar when mentioning in the judicial system as they will be proven that such incidents have not occurred. It is apparent that we, as individuals, must speak for those that no longer have a voice. Therefore, the reason that we have put sanctions into place where that can happen. Since the processing of my relative, we have been unable to speak or see him. The Detention officers have revoked to acknowledge his mental retardation diagnosis and therefore violated those mentioned above. The facts of knowledge that could be used for him to properly use the functions of the facility have been unaddressed.

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I say this with great regard for individuals that need us to stand. We are their voice, their weapon of defense. Without us, some of them would not be able to survive. Therefore, if you or a family member are being subjected to a prison or county jail, I highly recommend reading on your rights. Know the law, and become that person’s voice. It will seem like an inevitable situation, however, know that many of us will have your side.

If you would like further info on how to access prisoners, need to understand their rights, or would like to be their voice, then please contact me via email (thentherewashope1@gmail.com) or by phone (919.904.4063). Also, my partner is available if needed, you may contact her as well via phone. Her number will be listed below.

***** We are willing to speak with anyone regardless of location!

The Hard Truth

We live in a society where everyone wants and likes to have opinions, yet no one faces the truth on the statistics, politics, and the war on all people. We previously spoke on racism and the effects it has on many, no matter the nationality. At some point in time we just need to hear from someone who is unbiased and who isn’t likely to comment on the world we live in from ethical point of views.

“I would die again and again if it meant absolute freedom and peace. If I had to get up everyday just to enter a war zone so that the next generations could be better I would do it… again… and again!” -T.D

Life can be mistaken as the generations coming along are handed life off silver spoons, silver platters as they drink from their silver cups. The cold hard truth is that none of what we have today mattered anything to Jesus when He walked this earth. None of the broken paved highways mattered, no one’s race mattered, no one’s gender mattered, and no one’s money mattered. When God set forth and instructed Moses on the “Ten Commandments,” that what His expectations were… not what the world has become today. To love one another, to follow and obey Him, to not steal, to not kill, etc (Exodus 20).

The cold hard truth is that we all play toward the wars on each other. Either by our judging, our remarks, our belittlement, our hypocrisy (yes I said it), or by stature as a whole. We have set aside the God in us to be filled with the world. Pastors preaching Grace but are not teaching on Grace’s stipulations. Pastors preaching on forgiveness but not clarifying that forgiveness only comes when a person forgets. Citizens screaming ban the illegals, lock them in cages… yet none of us are legal (get yourself a history lesson). We have America torn into an outrage all because we grew up with Caucasian characters that are fake, but as soon as they make a movie with an African American there is outrage (oh and I have seen some outrage plenty this month). Oh, let us not forget that the opinions of many say we shouldn’t celebrate July 4th, only Juneteenth (wish you could see my hand covering my eyes right now in disbelief). Why can’t we celebrate both? Why can’t we live in a world that we were created to live in loving each other equally (because we are selfish and blinded by color… another hand goes over eye).

We study everyone’s actions, words, and responses yet pay no attention to our own. We are the problem to the problem. We disregard others because they don’t have what we have or because they aren’t on the same “level”… craziness!! The bible says:

Luke 6:31, And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.

Ephesians 4:29-32, Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

1 John 4:20-21, If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.

“Numerous states introducing Bible Literacy classes, giving students the option of studying the Bible. Starting to make a turn back? Great! “

Tweeted straight from the Donald J. Trump Twitter Page on Jan 28, 2019 at 9:21 AM

http://nymag.com/intelligencer/2019/01/trump-bible-literacy-public-schools.html

It should be in these things when our President says that he wants bibles in our schools that should encourage us to encourage him that treating people fairly is in those guidelines written in the bible. That in order for him to be a respectable President that maybe he should first lead by example and quit being an hypocrite. I am just saying… we can be honest right? If you were in his shoes what could you do differently to lead our country without being such a racist prick?? Yes, I am baffled that this guy is our President and hope that we do not have to spend an additional four years with him. (In my judgmental voice, I said this — see how quick we are?)

However, I hope that with moving forward we all can indivually move past our own mistakes with allowing someone to speculate how we are inteded to be when that is not God’s law!

Also, I would like to leave with this, thank you to all who have prayed for us during this trying time. We appreciate and love you all. ❤

Prayer

Often we judge and often we dismiss. I just ask that those that are unable, keep them in your prayers. This isn’t your ordinary blog post from me, just continue to pray. Thank you.

There You Were!

It doesn’t take much to get too busy and to forget where we were at certain stages in our lives… however, to forget the one who got us through would be unimaginable.

How many times have you felt so torn by things that have previously happened or are happening? Now is your chance… go to the rock, the source, and the healer. Through Him all things come. Through Him… we all live.

Hope you all are having an amazing Wednesday. May the rest of your week be blessed.