Tag: #outofthebellypodcast

This is Only a Test

This is Only a Test

By | | Comments 0 Comment

This is Only A Test

I’m showing my ages again y’all. How many of you remember this, “This is a test of the emergency broadcast system, this is only a test.” Launched in 1963 It was an eerie buzzing sound done on TV and over the radio. It played for 20 to 25 seconds. I remember the man cartoon figure low to the ground with a helmet on his head and binoculars in his hand as though he was searching for something.

The system was established to provide the president of the United States with an expeditious method of communicating with the American public in the event of war threat of war, or grave national crisis. Did you all know that in February 1971, the Emergency Broadcast System faced a major scare. A teletype operator accidentally broadcasted a real “Emergency Action Notification” instead of a test tape. This caused mass panic, as radio stations abruptly ceased regular programming at the height of the Cold War.

Although the system was never used for a national emergency, it was activated more than 20,000 times between 1976 and 1996 to broadcast civil emergency messages and warnings of severe weather hazards.

Tests are a part of the world we all live in. Whether it is faith, patience, in our minds, and peace. In our homes, on our jobs and everything in between. Nevertheless friends, we are not alone when test come. Jesus Tells us that He is with us. The dictionary defines A “test” is a way to find out if something works or how much you know.

1 John 4:1 command believer not to accept every spiritual claim blindly, but to critically evaluate teachings and leaders. Because many deceptive voices and false teachers exist, Christians must use discernment to test whether the underlying spirit behind a message truly originates from God. John warns against spiritual gullibility. He instructs the church to actively assess the source, character, and content of teachings rather than accepting them simply because they sound spiritual.“Testing the Spirit” refers to the attitude, teaching, or influence driving a person. Believers are to examine whether a teacher’s message aligns with the foundational truths of the gospel. Study to learn these differences.

My friends let me leave you with this thought, true spiritual maturity is measured by how quick you act in obedience even when it makes you uncomfortable. Amen.

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Leftovers

Leftovers

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Leftovers

In the book of John, chapter 6 verse 12, we see that Jesus feed 5,000 people with just five loaves of bread and two fish. No doubt a miracle of the Heavenly kind. And when everyone was full, He told His followers to gather the remaining food, so nothing was wasted. They collected 12 baskets of food.

I’m not gonna kid you I love me some leftovers. My favorite is Thanksgiving dinner, nothing like moms dressing with a little giblet gravy, some cranberry sauce, and don’t forget the rolls. Lordy be!

Leftover is something that remains unused or unconsumed. Most commonly, the plural form leftovers refer to the edible food remaining uneaten at the end of a meal, which is often saved, refrigerated, and eaten later.

Jesus cared about that hungry multitude, and he thought beyond just today, but for tomorrow. In Jesus relationship with people, he never gave us leftover or in other words the bare minimum. He always gave us His absolute best (love, focus, patience, and enthusiasm, just to name a few).

Giving God your best is a recurring theme in the Bible. It generally means prioritizing doing everything with a wholehearted, sincere effort. I get it friends our lives are filled with distractions and busy schedules. Overcoming these challenges often requires setting clear boundaries. It means deciding to put God first before the daily rush begins.

Giving your best to God means offering Him your time, heart, and talents completely. It is a way to say thank you for all His blessings. Give Him your very best every day. No sloppy seconds. Friends ask yourself this question, what would happen if God didn’t give us his very best?

“When we give God our best He will bless the rest.”

Remember friends we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Do Your Homework

Do Your Homework

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Do Your Homework

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV

I used the phrase, “do your homework “ to my daughter Cherelle when she was a kid. However, as a young adult navigating in this big world of ours, I find myself encouraging her that whatever life decisions, plans, career moves, and everything else on her plate, to do her homework.

The phrase “do your homework” has two main meanings. First, it means doing school assignments at home. Second, it is a popular phrase that means to research or prepare for something before acting on it. This is useful at any age. This can be with just about anything we do, whether it is work, a business, finances, jobs, where we would like to live, traveling, and a whole host of other things.

The scripture encourages us to “study” this means to be diligent, strive, or do your best. Show yourself as tried and true aligning with the will of the Lord in your life through your actions. As a workman with no need to ever be ashamed. Doing our homework helps us to rightly dividing the Word of Truth. One thing I do know is that God loves the truth. We cannot know the truth if we don’t get in the Word and learn that truth with our hearts and mind. Knowledge is power and I know friends there is Power in the name of Jesus!

When God offered to give Solomon whatever he desired, he asked for wisdom and an understanding heart. Wisdom and understanding both can help us make good choices solve problems and live peacefully. When we take the time to do our homework in this life, it helps us to see that facts of a situation and the best way to handle them. They bring clarity, joy and better relationships. Amen.

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

God’s Band-Aid

God’s Band-Aid

By | | Comments 0 Comment

God’s Band-Aid

“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” Psalm 91:4 NIV

Do you remember the iconic Band-Aid song called “Stuck on You?” It features the famous lyrics: “I am stuck on Band-Aid brand, ’cause Band-Aid’s stuck on me!” Did you know the jingle was originally written in 1975 by the legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow. Yep, that song has been around for 50 years.

What is the job of a band-aid?  It is designed to protect minor wounds, cuts, and scrapes. It promotes faster healing by maintaining a moist environment, preventing scabs, and keeping out bacteria, dirt, and water.

God’s Band-aid is designed to not only handle minor wounds, but big gaping holes that are large and deep. His grace offering spiritual protection, forgiveness, and unconditional love. He acts as a shield against spiritual harm, granting peace to guard our hearts, and wraps us in His favor.

God gave us a wearable band-aid, that covers us from head to toe. The Whole Armor. The book of Ephesians 6:11-12 says, “put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

God’s Band-aid releases, recovers, and restores. Friends, the safest place in the world is in the will of God. Get in it and stay covered. Amen.

Remember Friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Something to Hold on To

Something to Hold on To

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Something to Hold on To

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23 NIV

How many of you remember playing tug of war in gym class? It was physical game in which two opposing teams compete in a test of strength and endurance by pulling on opposite ends of a rope, aiming to drag the other team a specific distance or across a center line. This game dates back over 4,000 years, the game has roots in ancient Egypt, China, and Greece. It was even featured as an official Olympic sport from 1900 to 1920. Today, it remains a heavily competitive organized sport governed by the Tug of War International Federation and is a staple event at The World Games.

When we need something firm to cling to, like that tug of war rope, the Scripture provides a steadfast anchor for our soul. Hold on tight friends, no matter what we are facing, we have King Jesus to help us. What season of life  are you navigating right now? When everything feels heavy, these scriptures provide a reliable anchor. They remind us that we never walking through the storms alone. I dare you to call on Him.

 Here are some other anchoring scriptures:

  • Colossians 1:17 (NIV): “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
  • Isaiah 41:13 (NIV): “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, ‘Do not fear; I will help you.'”
  • Psalm 46:1 (NIV): “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Keep holding on. God Knows what He’s doing! Make up your mind that no matter what comes your way, you will do more than just survive, you will thrive despite it all. Amen.

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Come on Down!

Come on Down!

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Come on Down!

1 Timothy 4:15 (NCV) “Continue to do those things; give your life to doing them so your progress may be seen by everyone.”

 I’m telling my age again, how many of you remember The Price is Right? This game show premiered September 4, 1972, on CBS. Bob Barker was on the series’ longest-running host from its debut until his retirement in June 2007.

The most famous catchphrase of the show was “Come on down!” It was shouted by the show’s announcer to invite four lucky audience members to the stage. Some of the prizes included cars, living and dining room sets, swimming pool, televisions, refrigerator, jewelry, mink coats, and all-expense paid vacations.

Putting my own spin on the topic, Let’s look at it from a Christian perspective, like when God calls us to come on down to get our blessings by use our gifts for his service. Not only has he called us friends, He has also equipped us for the task. When we give over our times and talents to God, we embrace our divine purpose.

“Your willingness to serve God is as important as your service is to God.” Nothing like a willing vessel that says, send me, I’ll go. Amen.

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

What You Fussing About?

What You Fussing About?

By | | Comments 0 Comment

What You Fussing About?

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing,” Philippians 2:14 NIV

In this verse, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to maintain a positive and unified attitude in all their tasks and interactions, avoiding the negativity that comes from complaining or quarreling.

  • Grumbling/Complaining: Refers to expressing discontent or muttering, which can bring a negative, faithless spirit into a community.
  • Arguing/Disputing: Refers to questioning, bickering, or constantly challenging others, which disrupts unity.

This is to include this like our jobs, family functions, the church, cheer team, sorority, and fraternal organizations, in your home, with your spouse, sisters and brothers. And the list goes on and on.

The scripture is a reminder about our approach to life, service, and relationships with a positive, humble, attitude rather than complaining or debating, ensuring that personal discontentment doesn’t hinder the us.

The scripture breakdown:

  • Do everything”: This applies to all areas of life, from everyday responsibilities to serving within the community.
  • “Without grumbling”: In the original Greek, this points to quiet muttering or murmuring. Paul warns against secret discontentment that slowly erodes trust and unity.
  • “Without arguing”: This refers to open debates, quarreling, and outright disputes.

I get it sometimes it a lot easier said than done. Lord knows there’s people in this world who wanna take you there. Do your best friends to aim high when others go low!!

I read this quote that said, “Complaining is like bad breath. We notice it when it comes out of someone else’s mouth, but not when it comes out of our own.”

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Favor

Favor

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Favor

Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” Luke 1:30 ESV

The scripture today represents a pivotal moment of divine reassurance and grace. The angel Gabriel commands fear to leave, validating Mary’s role in God’s plan. It signifies that being chosen is a gift of unmerited grace rather than a reward for righteousness.

“Favour” in Greek is translated as chári, the noun meaning grace, kindness, or a favor done and as a verb it means to favor/support. To have favor means to be regarded with special kindness, preferential treatment, or goodwill, often resulting in unearned advantages, support, or opportunities. It signifies being held in high regard—either by people or by God—leading to blessing and tangible assistance in difficult situations.

Individual Examples of Favor in the Scripture

  • Noah: Found favor in the eyes of the Lord to build the ark and save his family.
  • Joseph: Experienced favor with both God and humans, moving from prison to Prime Minister of Egypt.
  • Moses: Known to speak with God “face to face” and was chosen to lead Israel out of Egypt.
  • Ruth: Found favor with Boaz, allowing her to glean in his fields, which led to her protection and marriage.
  • Esther: Received favor in the sight of King Xerxes, enabling her to save the Jewish people.
  • Daniel: Was given favor and compassion by officials in Babylon, allowing him to thrive in captivity.
  • Mary (Mother of Jesus): Described as “highly favored” by God to bear the Savior.
  • Jesus: Grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with both God and man.

Think about the favor the good lord has given you over the years. If you are like me so many thoughts, come to mind, that nothing but God could have done. Gods favor chases us down wherever we go friends. His scripture is proof. Psalm 23:6 says, “Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down one someone is when we are helping them up.

Cloak and Dagger

Cloak and Dagger

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Cloak and Dagger

Jesus tells his disciples, “But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” Luke 22:36 NIV

The synonyms for cloak and dagger, describes activity intense secrecy, mystery, or espionage, including activities of undercover and hush-hush. These terms also describe secretive operations of mysterious situations.

The scripture I shared today, marks a shift from their previous mission (where they relied on hospitality) as Jesus addresses his disciple of a future facing intense opposition, persecution, and the need for preparation.

In the scripture I shared today, Jesus is preparing the disciples for his impending crucifixion and the hostile environment they will face afterwards. “Cloak and dagger” can relate with themes of hidden motives, spiritual warfare, or literal concealed weapons used for divine purposes. While not mentioning literal “cloak and dagger” can be a battle against invisible or wicked forces.

These scenarios often highlight that God works through both open means and secret calculated tactics to achieve His purposes, requiring his followers to be both harmless as doves and wise as serpents.

My friends in times like these we need to adhere to the word which tells us to “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:11-13

Remember friends, we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Wisdom

Wisdom

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Wisdom

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7 KJV

Wisdom is an essential and important pursuit. It urges us to acquiring wisdom above all else, placing it as more crucial than knowledge or material wealth. It emphasizes seeking understanding. The verse advises us to “get wisdom.”

Haven’t we all been there, thinking we were wiser than our parents. When you think about it, were you? Over the years my friends I found out that ma’am and daddy knew and understood so much more about life then I ever could. They knew there is nothing new under the sun. I have been blessed to tell them thank you for sharing with me. Do you realize that God can and does bring wisdom to us through other people.

When we exercise wisdom, we can save ourselves time, energy, and money in many cases. Get off that hamster wheel of going nowhere fast. Distractions my friends are going to come. We all know that. But even in those difficult times we have a God who tells us he is the way, truth and the light. Not our will but his shall be done in heaven as it is on earth. We have access to the way maker! And might I add who better to lead us?

Wisdom is not about words it’s the action of thoughtfully thinking things through and seeking the guidance of the Good Lord. Take to heart the scripture of how to use wisdom and what it can mean for your life, when you take that one pause. Of all the things King Solomon could have asked the Lord for, he chose wisdom.

How many of you have heard the quote, give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. This is what wisdom is all about. The importance of getting an understanding where you are and that the great navigator sees in all directions. Glory to God! Amen!

Remember friends we are each other’s keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.

Canadian Book Publishing

Menu

Latest Release

The Armor Project