Identity Monitor

TV cannot be watched, the internet cannot be surfed and the radio cannot be searched without credit monitoring ads bleeding through and irking the very nerves we all fight to keep intact. Often, as I make my morning commute, I find myself aggravated listening to these same lines repeated time and time again...most of which are geared to promote a product capable of "protecting" one's identity in the event that it becomes compromised through breach of credit. Collectively, these very ads have caused a factoid to fester in the minds of many -- symptomatically causing them to believe their identity is tied to their credit and/or financial status. Although personal finances are important -- this couldn't be more incorrect.....

Acts 17:28, biblical scripture declares: "For in him we live and move and have our being. As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’"At the heart of this message, composed by the physician Luke, there is a powerful lesson. Through divine inspiration from God, he offers an antidote for the "disease" mentioned above that has affected so many. The scripture clearly reveals that it is in him (God) that we have life and that we even exist. In the second clause, the text dives deeper and states that we are his (God) offspring.

It should be understood that everything we are, and everything we are designed to be was established by God. Because of this, our identity or individuality, which correlates to our divine purpose, can only be found in HIM. The context of the scripture validates this argument. Consider this, if we are IN him, we live and move and have our being. But, to the contrary, if we are NOT in HIM, then we can't move or have our being because we would have no REAL identity. So although we could still go through the motions of life, they would be just that -- motions. God desires each and everyone of us to obtain a clear understanding of WHO we are and WHOSE we are, but it also starts with HIM.

Well, I'd be remiss if I didn't ask, have you discovered your identity in Christ? If not, the guide to discovery is made available through the Holy Bible. If you've been blessed to identify your identity, have you subscribed for an Identity Monitoring service? Can I possibly interest you today?


- Oliver C. Johnson III

"A Change Is Gonna Come"

Dear American,

As of late, the growing magnitude and frequency of various events in our world has aroused much confusion and misunderstanding. Let's be plain, for both the saved and unsaved, the occurrence of natural disasters, economic turmoil/uncertainty, celebrity deaths and scandals has led many to question the very rationale of God (Yahweh). Perhaps for many, it has felt like God has rescinded His love and compassion and slammed down his gavel of judgment & wrath in our present hour. I too, have occasionally echoed such sentiments. But, I'm persuaded that this is not the case! In fact, as I began to feel this way recently, I quickly retrieved my Holy Bible, grabbed tight to its leather binding and thumbed through its 66 books. I did this in search of a remedy -- a beacon of hope a morsel of sustenance capable of sustaining my hunger. Eventually arriving at the Book of Jonah, I was reminded of a few things...

During Jonah's profession, God had become greatly displeased with the center of the Assyrian empire, Nineveh, due to their excessive pride, wickedness and overall DISOBEDIENCE (inability to discern between right and wrong - Jonah 4:11). Nineveh, which rested at the fertile bank of the Tigris River, was a prosperous city. But, it was one that had fallen short in the area of OBEYING God.

As a result of God's distaste, he called the prophet Jonah to speak a word of judgment to this city. Jonah fled and disobeyed God's initial instruction to preach to the Ninevites, a word purposed to lead them to repentance (to turn away from) from evil. Jonah's disobedience resulted in him being swallowed by a great fish (Jonah 1:17). However, he ultimately hearkened to God's second request. Jonah 3:4 records that he told the people "Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown..." Scripture further relays that the people believed the word of the Lord and their king made a decree for all people to humble themselves (wearing sackcloth), fast and cry out to Lord in an act of repentance. God saw how the people had turned from their evil ways and repented which led Him to repent of the evil that he said he would do to them (Jonah 3:10). Ironically this led to Jonah becoming upset with God's decision and display of GRACE. It was by which this same GRACE that God had previously exhibited regarding Jonah and his disobedience.

American, similar to the ancient city of Nineveh and nation of Assyria, God has blessed the United States with much material wealth. Additionally, compared to other nations, the U.S. has much freedom. But, unfortunately, this great nation, founded on biblical principles, has turned from its first love -- God. Collectively, we've become prideful, arrogant and disobedient. We've turned from the very basis our nation is known for -- "liberty and justice for all."

We live in a land (U.S.) where approximately 15% (46 million) of the population finds themselves below the poverty line; but, to the contrary 1% (15 million) find themselves at millionaire status. Pound for pound, the U.S. leads all other nations in terms of millionaires to population. Yet, for some reason, there are still people that are going without raiment! And, for some reason, there are people that have no place to call home! God is certainly not pleased!

We NEVER shall forget that God has called His people to discern from right and wrong; and that He has called us to care for the poor and downtrodden. Yes, it is true; America is currently under turmoil but it is a result of its own doing. This is plea, a wakeup call or sorts, for we Americans to collectively REPENT and turn from our wicked ways that God might heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14). If we don't, the turmoil is only going to get worse. We must understand that collective repentance begins with each individual. Sure, God's GRACE is sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9), but it shouldn't be abused!

Let's all try to do what Jonah didn't do and obey God -- the first time! Let's also take note of the Ninevites and be ever mindful of God's correction and be quick to change.

Even when things seem to go contrary to what we think, and calamity seems common, know that God has only allowed this out of love to prevent self-destruction!

American, "A Change Is Gonna Come," but whether that change is a collective promotion or demotion is dependent upon our ability to recognize the error of our ways and repent. It all starts now with you doing your part!

"Crack Kills"

*Emergency Beep* 

Disclaimer: This post is not intended to target any particular demographic. Its content is not for the faint of heart or for those that are easily offended! This post is for those that are serious about growth in Christ. Its purpose is to incorporate the use of familiar facts with hopes that readers will learn about Christian principles and live the life that God has preordained. 

*End Beep*

I’m sure after you read the title “Crack Kills,” your mind probably jumped immediately to its commonly used context relating to drug usage (i.e. crack-cocaine) --- well, mine did too……..

In the 1980’s, as a result of a growing popularity, there was an influx in the amount of cocaine that was shipped to the US -- most of which routed through the port of Miami. Due to a supply that exceeded the demand (surplus), drug dealers had to devise a tactic that would allow them to continue to maintain a lucrative operation. What was the result? (I’m glad you asked) Dealers decided to convert cocaine powder to a solid smoke-able substance called “crack.” Soon after, this new substance was being sold in major American cities for a mere $2.50 per dosage. Such prices, capable of delivering an elevated high, were unprecedented. Not only was the derivative sold at a more reasonable price, but also it was extremely potent which helped it deliver a quicker longer-lasting high than its contemporary --- cocaine. The culmination of these “benefits” eventually led to users becoming addicted to this substance in a shorter amount of time.

When the smoked cleared, it became evident that a large majority of the US population had become obsessed with the euphoric feeling that smoking “crack-cocaine” created! Over the next several years, the “crack boom” would prove to be devastating, particularly as it pertained to health. According to some, the crack era was an epidemic and over a 3-year period produced in upwards of 90,000 crack-related hospital visits, a majority of which resulted in death.

Additionally during this era, there was also a sudden spike in the amount of babies that were birthed by crack fiends and as a result the term “crack baby” was coined soon after.

All of the above played a part in the urban community embracing the term “crack kills.” 

Now, in addition to the common definition of crack above, they’re some addition meanings of the term that I would like to bring to your attention:

• To break without complete separation of parts; become fissure
• To induce or cause to be stricken with sorrow or emotion; affect deeply
• To suffer a mental or emotional breakdown
• To wreck an automobile, airplane or other vehicle
• A physical or mental defect; flaw

After pondering these definitions, something probably becomes apparent, most definitions of the term “crack” carry a negative connotation and typically have purpose to cause some sort of detriment! This same comprehension carries similar weight when it is used in the context of the Christian walk.

Let’s examine this more closely.

For the believer, the process for understanding the importance of avoiding “crack(s)” begins with a clear understanding of the “vessel”-- the item that is vulnerable to be damaged as well as its importance. (By this time, you are probably wondering where I’m going with this, but I beg of you, please stay with me.) We were created as vessels (containers) to carry God’s Word (water), that His WILL be accomplished in the Earth!

According to Genesis 2:7, God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. Furthermore, 2 Cor. 4:7 states: “We now have this light shinning in our hearts, but we ourselves are like FRAGILE clay jars CONTAINING this great TREASURE. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not ourselves (NLT).” Additionally, as so eloquently relayed through parable, in John 4:13-14, Jesus Christ tells the Samaritan woman at the well that the water He has to offer quenches all thirsts. It becomes evident that Jesus, the son, is offering the “Living Water” that stems from the wellspring of life – God, the Father. It is this same water that He has commanded us to carry. Because this water (spirit) contains God’s word, and because God’s Will is revealed through His Word, we then discover that God desires for all men to learn of Him and to repent that they might inherit eternal life and enjoy the abundance of joy and blessings while here in this Earth. This is TREASURE!

To sum it up, God earnestly longs for all mankind to thirst of Him and to believe on Him so they may experience His goodness. However large the task may sound, the spreading of the gospel (good news), is contingent upon how effectively we can carry it!! Thus, the importance of having a vessel that is whole and without cracks becomes relevant -- even the more!

Being that the vessel is such a vital aspect in the overall efficacy of one being able to carry the water, God’s word (good news), Satan, God’s adversary, works overtime to wreak havoc on the vessel. Some of the tactics Satan uses to facilitate attempts of “crack-making” are:

• Various sins (i.e. temptation, lust, etc.)
• Financial Issues
• Worry or Anxiety (prolonged exposure can lead to nervous breakdowns or have other serious health implications)
• Stress
• Anger
• Sickness
• People (yes, people, the individuals that seem to carry a spirit of conflict…the ones that tend to disagree with EVERYTHING you say….no matter how irrational it may seem!)

My conjecture may be wrong, but I bet that at some point in your adult life, you have experienced one, two, three, maybe ALL of the above. I’ll even take it a step further; you may have experienced ALL of them at the SAME time, possibly even as you read this post!

Satan and his “crew of darkness” have a purpose to destroy the works of the Lord. Because of this, the dark side is intent upon strategizing ways to obliterate our vessels. “Why is he so concerned about this vessel?” (I’m glad you asked!) He’s actually more concerned about what’s in the vessel (the Word), rather than the vessel itself. He knows that if he can BREAK the vessel he can BREAK God’s will for our lives!! He also knows that not only do breaks allow a way for water to escape, but they also allow for contaminants to enter!

Note: As stated above, God’s WILL is His WORD and in his word are promises (peace, joy, blessings, eternal life, salvation, love, patience, etc.). Satan desires to rob us of this with hopes to reduce the Kingdom of Heaven’s power and influence one vessel at a time. 

As Christians and believers in Christ, we ALREADY have the victory through the blood that Jesus shed. Strangely enough, this does not stop the “Father of Lies” persistence in attempting to crack our vessels. 

We must remain cognizant of this!! -----> Hosea 4:6: “My people are destroyed from the lack of knowledge…….”

“So what precautionary measures can I take to prevent my vessel from becoming cracked; and if my vessel has already been cracked, or broken, can it be restored?” 

*Once again, I appreciate the audience participation*

In order to “prevent” cracks in our vessel there are things that we can do routinely as Christians:

1. Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” By making the conscious effort to yield to God’s word and His way we can renew our mind. This is imperative because it allows us to see things the way God sees them which in effect will help us to see the plot of “crack attempts” before they come.

2. 2 Corinthians 10:5 – “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ….” It is ever so important that the Christian exercises authority and casts down attacks from the enemy. According to Luke 10:19, God has given us authority over the enemy and as a result, we don’t have to be passive – we can counteract!

3. Psalm 51:7 – “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Similar to David, it is crucial that we remain in a humble state, willing to be made pure by our God. Such demonstrative display of humility shows God that we realize we are fragile (as previously mentioned above in 2 Cor. 4:7) and that we are prone to cracks. It also shows that we are dependent upon Him to successfully fulfill our purpose of carrying His word and His will!

4. Mark 1:15 – "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" When it comes to carrying God’s word (good news) it is also important that we repent regularly (daily). Repentance not only means that we ask for forgiveness of our sins, but it also means that we turn from the displeasing behavior that caused us to sin. Repentance’s relation to the vessel is monumental in the fact that it welcomes God to repair any hairline cracks (cracks that can unknowingly occur), it also welcomes God to repair any noticeable cracks (those that we’re fully aware of). In addition, repentance also welcomes God to strengthen our vessels for the journey ahead so that cracks do not occur in the first place! 

This covers some preventive measures and eludes to some restoration procedures….but for the completely broken vessel, there is also good news! 

We’ve already established the fact that we’re fragile clay jars and a product of the mighty works of God’s creative “hands.” I would like to point our conversation to Isaiah 64:8, where God reveals through the major prophet, that HE is the potter and WE are the clay. I’m not sure how many art advocates are reading this, but this implies that because he formed us, and because we are on His WHEEL and desire to be in His WILL, He has the right to shape, form and make us over anew!! (Someone should be rejoicing right now!) God is so merciful, kind and loving that through humble submission and repentance, offers the option to us of being “made-over.” And because we’ve already been bought with a price through the blood of the perfect lamb (Jesus), all we owe Him is our FAITH. Yes, that means that a home equity loan is not necessary for this “remodel!”

By now you are probably trying to process all that has been discussed. Let me help…

You may be feeling like the enemy is trying to crack your vessel; if not you, then maybe it’s someone near and dear to you. Or, you may feel a strong sense of despair, as you’ve become victim to the wiles of the enemy, resulting in your very own vessel becoming cracked. It may be that you’ve dealt with “crack” so long that you’ve become comfortable and complacent, a “crack addict” if you will. Maybe you feel like you are “strung-out.” If this is the case, then there is hope despite how daunting the “withdrawal” symptoms may seem!

Many times on this journey temptation can seem tantalizing but we must keep in mind that “the grass is not greener on the other side,” in fact, it’s not even real grass it’s ASTROTURF! Meaning that everything Satan has to offer, crack and all, is not the REAL thing! Such things are only distractions and delusions to get us away from the TRUTH ---- God’s word. 

If you are cracked or even completely broken, hold close this TRUTH -- God is a mender and He is waiting on YOU to simply recognize Him as being just that! God is ready to pick up the pieces so that you can be about your Father’s business (walking in God’s will) and ultimately fulfill your divine destiny!

Please, choose today to be mended; remember – “Crack-Kills”

*Unless noted otherwise, all referenced bible scriptures were cited from the New International Version, 1984