Pastor Tony Brock's Lesson - Part III

Don't make memorials from places of pain; make them praise-worthy instead!

What he did next gives me chills.

Right there… in the very spot his loved one departed this earth, he mustered a spiritual maturity that most of us dream of attaining. He then selflessly offered a sacrifice of praise to His Heavenly Father. He praised Him for who He was, who He is and all the wondrous things He has done in spite of the death of his brother.

Pastor Brock transformed that spot of sadness and grief into a place of spiritual beauty. No longer did that street represent death. After his praise offering, it represented the amazing life Jesus died to give all who will accept Him.

I think the best part of all of this is that he did this in the presence of his boys. Whether they realize it or not, they received a spiritual deposit that will empower them for years to come - that is if they learn the lesson.

Pastor Brock said on that day, he turned his heart wound into something other than an ugly scar that refuses healing. The day he surrendered that pain, it became a spiritual “beauty mark” symbolizing praise, worship, and total surrender.

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"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, 

but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by

faith in the Son of God, who loved

me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

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Timing is everything.

Now, healing takes time and happens when it happens. The important thing is not to inhibit it by holding on to the pain. Hey, I'll bet it took Pastor Brock some time to get to that point of surrender. It will take time for you as well.

I'm sure the day after his brother's funeral, he never could not have worshiped as he did on that street the day. No, it likely took some time. So, do not rush yourself, Godsy Girl- but do not stall (or get stuck in the pain) either.

The truth be told, I am currently going through my own season of “deepest darkness”. My tears had been my bread. God has been faithful and His Holy Spirit very present. I am not sharing this with you for sympathy. That's not what I am about. Nevertheless, I want you to know that Pastor Brock's testimony spoke directly into my current life situation.

Sometimes, life is just…hard. A hopeless medical prognosis, a financial burden, rebellious children, a broken relationship, marital problems, and deteriorating health… all threaten our peace and our praise. But, now you know the answer: build an alter.

Build an alter of praise from your illness, sadness, disappointment, grief or trauma. Make the pain a symbol of God's faithfulness, healing power and His endless mercy. Praise Him in it, through it and after it. There is healing in your worship. Now, worship and be made whole in Jesus name.

Note: I emailed Pastor Brock to thank him for his transparency. He responded with grace, encouragement and humility.

God bless you, Pastor and thank you for helping us grow.

Visit his website here.

“Who is this that darkens my counsel

with words without knowledge?

3Brace yourself like a man;

I will question you,

and you shall answer me.

4“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?

Tell me, if you understand. 

Job 38: 3-4

Pastor Tony Brock offers help in dealing with grief and depression - Part II

Visit Pastor's audio blog here:http://www.hopeandlife.tv/media-center

This is part 2 of "Pastor Tony Brock offers help 

dealing with grief and depression" 

Click here to read part 1.

What We Usually Do

One of the biggest mistakes Christians make is to hold on to past wounds, sometimes we even "nurse" them or protect them from healing. Have you ever met someone stalled in the grieving process? Years pass, but they do not heal. As the woman in the Bible, they refuse to be comforted. Their warped sense of comfort comes from nursing the trauma and holding on tightly to the hurt.

Now, to be clear, we all grieve in different ways. For instance, I kept my dad’s cowboy boots for years after his death. Not only that, but I also kept his old documents. By keeping them, I “nursed” the grief. Every time I saw them, every time I walked by them, I felt the twinge of heartache that had become familiar to me. It wasn’t until God began dealing with me that I was able to release them and move on.

Death aside, there are other ways to accommodate pain. People betrayed by an unfaithful mate, may close their hearts, refusing to trust again. Others “nurse” their pain by refusing to try again because of a past failure. The examples are endless.

Here’s what works best…

Instead of accommodating the heartbreak, submit it to God. Turn it into a place of praise in your memory.

“Praise Him?” you ask with a furrowed brow. YES, praise Him for bringing you out of that situation. Praise Him for His provision during it, and glorify Him for the comfort you received in the midst of it. Worship Him because you didn’t lose your mind. A weaker woman would have fallen apart, but you made it! All because God had His hand in the turmoil and on His beloved baby girl (You!) So, heal in the name of Jesus, Godsy Girl!

He went where???

Pastor Brock returned to the exact physical spot his brother died. His two young boys were with him. Through tears and pain, he re-introduced his children to their uncle and explained the significance of what happened on that street.

What he did next give me chills...

I'll continue this post tomorrow. 
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^6... to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ (Joshua 4:6, New International Version, ©2011)

Pastor Tony Brock offers help in dealing with grief and depression

God turns scars into beauty.

A simple reflection over your life will show how He skillfully took your deepest pains and turned them into victorious testimonies. It's a beautiful thing. However, it's not a passive process. The deepest, most painful wounds often require our participation to be made whole.

Yesterday, on TBN's “Praise the Lord,” one of the guests was Pastor Tony Brock from Hope and Life church in Snellville, Georgia. He shared how God turned the ugly scar of grief into a “beauty mark” in his life. You see, Pastor Brock's sixteen year old brother, David, died several years ago after an encounter with a drunk driver.

Anxious thoughts?

"When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul." Psalms 94:19 (NASV)

The Bible says that we "should be anxious for nothing", but you know how life is. Some times are easier to "NOT WORRY"  than others.

So, praise God for this Psalm to remind us that when we slip into anxiety, God is the perfect comfort for a weary and hurting soul.

This scripture is my anchor this week. I pray it also gives you peace as you continue through the week.

Love you,
GodsyGirl Teri

Being a Christian in everyday situations (and problems with law enforcement)

Today was an amazing morning of Bible study at my church. My hubby usually teaches mind-boggling and challenging lessons, but today one of the associate ministers (Pastor DeLano Sheffield) shared about the beauty of God's grace and the good news of the Gospel.

I respond best to challenging, deep-rooted teachings that expand my spiritual perspective. My husband is a heads above the crowd in this teaching style and God has assembled a wonderful team of leaders around him. We are blessed.

Well, after the Bible Study, I left the church feeling re-invigorated with fresh revelation from Colossians. It was good stuff. I loved the reminder that in Christ we are blameless because of the wonderful work of Jesus Christ on the cross. We can never hear that too much.

God's Presence in our Lives
At one point during the lesson, we chatted in small groups about where we would like to see God's presence in real life situations. Of course, one of the subjects was traffic; there were others, but I can't remember them. My group giggled as we talked about life's troubles and how much we need God to occupy our responses to those “tricky” situations.

This Is A Test And Only A Test
One the way home, I called one of our elderly members. Just wanted to check on her and let her know I loved her. On my usual route home, I often drop calls, so I decided to go home another way.

Why in the world did I do that?

No sooner than I said “good bye,” I heard the dreaded screech of a police siren. I thought he was going on a call, so I pulled over so he could pass me. He pointed to the right. I pulled over to the right. He pointed more aggressively. Then it hit me. HE WAS AFTER ME!

You talk about chaos, I'm confused, my kids is crying and

the police officer is frustrated because he thought

 I was being difficult by not stopping immediately.

Long story short, after Pastor Sheffield's lesson today, I was empowered to keep my heart pure, my disposition pleasant and endure my punishment for speeding. I invited God's presence into the entire interaction and all in all, it was quite pleasant. Before I pulled off, I prayed God would bless and protect the officer. He was kind and open. *Please say a pray for him right now. God knows who he is. Thanks!*

Thank God, for His presence that brings peace to any kind of chaos. Also, praise God that although I am blameless in His sight, I need to slow down in my car.

Check out Pastor Sheffields Colossian handouts here.

Christians scared to speak up or should they keep quiet?

By now, you've likely heard of the princess boy. You know, the little boy that wants to dress like a princess (on a regular basis). His parents completely support his decision and, in fact, his mom wrote a book about her supportive stance.

Then there was the mom that allowed her little boy to dress as female character last Halloween. Did you hear about that one?

There's more.

The latest news is about the popular retailer whose ad depicts a mom painting her son's toe nails a vibrant pink! Again, the social support has flooded in and I'm assure the retailer is simply thrilled for the press and national attention.

But, is a larger issue at play?

As guests on the morning talk shows discussed the latest ad, the commentators largely support it. In fact, conflicting opinions were labeled as "bullying" or inappropriate. In other words, their minds are completely open to accept transgender realities, then completely closed to views of Christianity or any conflicting modalities.

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Have you noticed that society can speak of any lifestyle and any of choice, but when Christisn values are raised, the social "boot" drops. What do you think? Does the world hate authentic Christisnity? Now, I am not speaking of Christianity that is synthetic, all-accepting and wimpy. I mean a true, real depiction of the faith that is Bible-based, and encompasses the Godly standard while mirroring the life, commandments and knowledge of Jesus.

Hey, a simple visit to an online news outlet discussion group quickly reveals the contempt people have for a Christian World view.

A conversation about something as simple as Internet marketing can turn into a Christian hatred session. Check out what I mean here: http://www.warriorforum.com/main-internet-marketing-discussion-forum/204179-how-monetize-christian-website.html

So should Christians assimilate in silence or take a stand to confront wrong, sin and erroneous theologies? If so, then why don't more Christians do it? Bear this scripture in mind as you contemplate your answer:

"If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. "If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you." John 15:18-19

Resources and Stuff

Guest Post: Contemplation

Not long ago, I figured GodsyGirl(tm) readers could benefit from a different voice, experience and Godly woman's journey. We can learn so much from one another.  After much prayer, I invited my cousin write a GodsyGirl post. Boy, she blessed me and I'm sure she will bless you too. So, please meet my wonderful cousin, Gayle.

Contemplation……
by GodsyGirl Gayle Price
Date: 3/22/11

The Price Family

As I sit here at my keyboard the day before my birthday I am contemplating where I am in my life. Turning another year older, puts your mindset on things of your past as well as things to your future but your steps are already ordered and its your responsibility to be obedient and guide your feet in His ordained path.

Burning questions are at the center of my focus; why am I not financially stable, why am I still struggling (emotionally, mentally & financially), is there more in store for me?

Often times you will hear from your fellow warriors that ‘your season is coming’ and my 1st thought is “how long is it gonna take, jeez I aint getting any younger”. The “I wish” is always at the forefront: I wish I had more money, I wish I had a better car, I wish my children were perfect angels, I wish the gas prices would go down, I wish I could stop robbing peter to pay paul, I wish I wish I wish.

When we get into the contemplation mode, all we need to do is go back to the instruction manual….He gives us everything we need right in the Bible. I am not a Bible scholar and don’t have scriptures to quote but I do know that the desires of your heart, that are pleasing to the Father, will always be granted to you. There is a scripture for EVERYTHING you heart desires it’s like the information super highway I tell ya! All your questions are answered and then some.

Whenever you are contemplating your life, how 'bout you contemplate standing on God’s promises instead.

Reading Your Bible, Taking Your Meds

Would you ever consider taking an over-the-counter medication (you have never used or heard of) WITHOUT reading the instructions first?

Of course not! That would be a terrible idea!

But, people do the same with the Word of God all the time. They try to apply God's Word to their lives without knowing the promises, conditions or requirements of God. I personally think this is where doctrine error is birthed. People trying to apply Godly principles without understanding it's context, intent, etc. Scary.

I've said it a million times. Faith works if you work it. Idle faith is nothing without the "work" that ignites it.

For example, tithing God's way is the precursor to financial blessing.
You have to know the Word (read the instructions) to know how to "work" your giving (the right way) to tithe appropriately. Did you know there is a situation Jesus says you should not give? Read Matthew 5:23-24.

God operates by spiritual principles defined in His word. Know His Word, study it so you will walk in accordance to His will.

Ways to learn about God:

1. Private study time. Put the Bible on your phone, IPad, CD or whatever it takes to learn it.

2. Attend a good, strong Bible believing church. Ask pastors that are skilled in the Word.

3. Hang out with people that live God's word, act on it and don't "play around" with sin. Find some serious folks- they are out there. As you mature in the Word, they'll likely find you. Disclaimer: I'm not saying to dump those not walking in God's word to the best of their ability, but your inner circle must be people whose life sharpens the iron in your life.

I love being able to call my friends and getting the Word of God before opinions, ideas, etc.

Read the instructions, GodsyGirl and grow in the Lord!

Your Destiny

Scriptures from the Rescue Baptist WIA meeting in Kansas City, Missouri.

Romans 8:29 - 30, 12:6
Luke 1:26-42
Gen. 37-7
Hebrews 10:38
Gal. 6:7-8
Psalm 56:3

Thanks to the WIA president, Melissa Robinson and all the wonderful ladies in attendance.

Extra special love to my sisters and daughters from Macedonia Baptist Church in Kansas City.

Should Christians be wimpy?

Have you ever seen ancient paintings that depict a soft, spongy, almost effeminate Jesus? I have. Most museums have them. Once, I even saw one that showed Jesus looking almost like a teenage girl. Lion of Judah - not in that painting!

Sometimes artist portray historical figures incorrectly because they do not know much about them. Sure, they may know some facts, but not their true character. Therefore, they either illustrate them from their perceptions or from their own imaginations.

Sometimes, folks do the same with Christians. They draw conclusions about us based on their own perceptions. They mistakenly think all Christians should saunter through life with no opinions, no authority, and no personal boundaries.

An assertive Christian? No way!

An opinionated Christian? Get outta here! 

Needless to say, I don't subscribe to this theory.  Let me tell you why.

For many, many years, I was a 5 foot 5 walking speed bump. My terribly low self image was a curse and because of it, I allowed others to mistreat me time and time again. Believe me; it was spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically exhausting. If you are mistreated enough, I believe your self esteem will soon diminish even lower over time.

By the time I became a Christian, my image of my self was completely shot. Serving God was tough because I always felt second-best. I couldn't speak up and rarely contributed my opinions. Ever been there? I expected mistreatment and tolerated it as normal. Sad.

Faulty Christian teaching also contributed to my problem because it portrayed Jesus as weak, just like those silly photos did. So, I assumed a posture of weakness (not meekness) and let folks misuse me, mistreat me, repeatedly insult me and take my money (Really!).

I was of little use to God scared, intimidated and downtrodden.A simple study of Jesus' life on earth and you will see He was none of these things. He stood up to bullies, called wrong "wrong" and wasn't the least bit concerned about what people thought about Him. Now, He did this with love and without demeaning - that's the key.

A Word in Due Season

When I was in my lowest state of timidity, I visited my friend's church.  A woman named Evelyn Hudson was speaking that day. I had never heard of her, but wanted to support friend so I went. As I entered, it was clear to me that this Hudson lady had no problems with her self-image. I admired her confidence as she spoke God's word with authority holding a trash can lid...yep...a trash can lid. Now, Joyce Meyer uses props all the time, but back then, you didn't see much of that kind of thing.

Toward the end of the service, she did the worse thing one could do to a person with a low self image; she called me out and asked me to come up front because "God had a word for me.”

“Coo-Coo”, I thought to myself, but headed up anyway.

I'll never forget it. She said instantly said, "you're going to need a backbone to do what God has called you to do.  Raise your hands." She prayed for me for me.  I had no clue to what she was referring, but God knew. He knew almost twenty years later, I would need that “backbone” to live my current life. Thank God for Evelyn and her willingness to be bold, unusual and obedient to the Holy Spirit. Praise God for the liberty of being free from a low self image and the need to please, impress or appease people!

Be Nice
With all this "backbone" talk, please don't get me wrong. I'm not advocating meanness, rudeness or un-Godly behavior. God forbid! I am simply stating God can't use a wimpy, scared, insecure Christian as easily as He can a strong, eager willing one. Regardless of your personality, learn how to say "no" with kindness, set boundaries with skill, correct in love and be a Christian of strength and Godly power.


Finally, please know your worth, Godsy Girl. Don't mistreat others nor allow them to mistreat you. Seek God and ask His Holy Spirit to reveal the true fruits of the Spirit and an authentic love walk as exemplified by a fearless, "unintimidatable" Christ. Respect is earned with kindness and knowing when to set boundaries.

Be bold in your witness, confident in your God-given gifts and turn your community on it's ear for Christ! Amen or Uh-O?