Don't worry God has it

Does she love me? I wonder what he's doing? Will I get job? How many likes or retweets did that post get? As a society we worry and ponder every aspect of our lives. We have succumb the opinions of others. We desire to be accepted and fit in, but at the same time try our hardest to stand out. A contradiction to say the least. Society and media has set such lofty standards for us that we waste our entire day and exhaust ourselves and bank accounts trying to reach that pinnacle of acceptance. Eric Hoffer stated "when people are free to do as they please, they usually imitate each other." That's exactly what we do; imitate celebrities and those we view that have desirable lives. This can become a culmination of a tragic personal journey. As I stated previously your life and journey is unique to you. God has created you and has set you apart from others. Worrying, debating, and doubting with oneself can and will drive you mad (Matthew 6:27). You can plan for the future and aspire to do great. But live this life one day at a time (Matthew 6:34). We should premise every plan and path in our life with, if God willing (James 4:13-16).

I don't trust him! She is always on her phone when I'm around. Who is he/she talking to? For starters being with someone whom you can't or are reluctant to trust is futile. Why subject your mental to such torment. Every moment wondering what the other is doing (1 Corinthians 15:33). I don't know if I can do it. Or I can do it! But we secretly doubt ourselves. Doubt is the opposite of faith. When Peter exited the boat to walk to Jesus and he began to sink and as Jesus caught him he asked "why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:22-33). Until we seek God sincerely we will never realize what we posses. The spirit of God is within us (1 Corinthians 3:16). We are stronger than we know. We are only defeated and bound to the limitations we let ourselves succumb to. Let go and let God!

2 Timothy 1:7 (Amp) For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.


I can't sleep! Heck, lunesta and ambien pills sit on my nightstand as I type. I think too much. My brain is always all over the place. There are entirely too many moving parts associated with life. Between work, school, relationship, social life and like. We tend to dabble in each aspect and in return we are pulled in every direction. Our mental state is stretched thin. We become our own worst enemy and cause of sleep deprivation. Once finally asleep, for a whole three hours our sleep is full of bad dreams and troubling thoughts. Ecclesiastes 5:3 The saying is true: Bad dreams come from too much worrying, and too many words come from foolish people. Instead of worrying, pray. Pray for guidance and discernment. Mental health is more important than one would imagine. Worrying or stress can lead to hypertension. I can personally attest to that. We also look for drugs, drinking and multiple outlets for temporarily release. Antithesis to the aforementioned, having a positive attitude and practicing positive thoughts is essential to our well being (Philippians 4:8). The sooner we realize we can't have everything life has to offer and that our own understanding isn't sufficient we can live healthier and happier lives.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (Amp) 5 Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
6 In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.

Repaid in Glory

The issue of praising God and looking for monetary gifts and an abundance of possessions to validate our praise and worship is a problem in my eyes. It is said that God wants us to prosper and have everything our hearts desire and to obtain these we must have faith in God. And claim it! So instead of seeking God for eternal life, we seek him so we may prosper in life. I oppose to that wholeheartedly because the bible says the opposite. To store your riches in heaven and not earth. Whatever your heart is desired on is where your treasure is. So if you desire to have endless earthly possessions, where do you think your heart lies? (Matthew 6:19-21). It isn't that God doesn't want us to enjoy the life he has set forth for us, he wants us to seek him exclusively. He wants our hearts on Him only. God is a jealous God, he will bless us with what he sees fit. (Matthew 6:3). God isn't impressed by how much you can acquire (Luke 12:15). When its all said and done you don't want to be called a fool by God, when we depart this life the possession we desire will here will be someone else's (Luke 12:20).

As a society we have become greedy. Fixated on money and material gain. I'm guilty of it also. We have more faith that money can solve our problems. But when it comes to having faith in God, we have reservations. Unless we are praying to Him to bless us with money (1 Timothy 6:9-10). I tell you this, you have to choose either God or money. I choose God and urge you to do the same (Matthew 6:24). We can't be lukewarm with God (Revelation 3:16). Look at the people who love money and have it in abundance. They seem to never get enough. Those same money hungry people are driving our country into debt and the impoverished deeper into poverty. I'm sure those same people attend church and profess to be Christians, but read the parable about the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:14-31). Now tell me who fared out better in eternal life. No matter how much you acquire. Those possessions tend to get old, outdated, broken, lost and or lose their value all together. God wants you follow Him and get ready for your true treasure in Heaven!
(Luke 12:33)

When disaster strikes we are all compelled to give for a good cause. When we see someone who is homeless or poor, not so much. Why can't they get a job? It's not my fault they're homeless (Proverbs 21:13) . As a Christian and new creation in Christ. We should be eager to help those we see in need (Matthew 5:42). Jesus showed compassion to the poor, healed the sick and sat with lepers. Jesus flipped tables in the temple area of the greedy and those who were in love with their money (Matthew 21:12). If asked would you be willing to live Mark 10:21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and agive to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

As I said before the bible tells us to be content with what we have because we have God (Hebrew 13:5). Their isn't any amount of money that can get you into heaven. Also the bible states that being with the poor is better than rubbing elbows with the rich (Proverbs 16:9). Even Jesus preferred to be with the oppressed rather than enter into Rome amongst the wealthy and the elite. Also the Beatitudes state that the poor will inherit the Kingdom of God. Furthermore, a camel can go through the eye of a needle easier than a rich man can enter Heaven. Remember at the day of judgment is where you will receive your true reward. (Matthew5:12 Luke14:14). The major premise of this blog is to get your mind off money and onto God. I leave you with this quote:

- Chaz Gerard Tyler

"And I fear that there may be many hearing me who may know well that they are not Christians, because they do not love to give. To give largely and liberally, not grudging at all, requires a new heart. An old heart would rather part with its life-blood than its money. Oh my friends, enjoy your money. Make the most of it. Give none of it away. Enjoy it quickly, for I can tell you, you will be beggars throughout eternity.”

- Robert Murray M'Cheyne

God Is Love

God is Love (1 John 4:8). My main intention is to tell why we need love. Also to hopefully help differentiate love and lust. Love is the one emotion that conquers all others. Whenever we are overwhelmed with life we search for those who love us. During a heartbreak we search seek refuge in those who love us. Love is healing and the anecdote. Love will cause a parent go to the ends of the world to ensure happiness for their child (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Addicts love their vice, the vain love their beauty, greedy love their money and the prideful love themselves. Even if for the wrong reasons love is the center of all. Learning to focus that love on God will deliver one from all that is wrong and give more fulfillment to life. We are filled with love and that is why we seek it to no end. No matter how much we shun it publicly; secretly we have a desire for it. Seek God and you'll experience true pure love when in a relationship with Him
(Romans 5:8). God loved you when you didn't love you.

So how can Love be dead and God still alive?When searching for a significant other many are blinded by the physical. A nice body, long hair, six pack abs that isn't love. Our human nature allows lust overrides love. Love is internal and works its way outward. It is the at core of our being (2 Corinthians 5:14). To know true love is to know God. Seeking a life partner without God is futile. We tend to get caught up in lust, we let our eyes and sexual desire drive our search for love. Hence the reason so often relationships fail or lack pure mental and spiritual stimulation. (1 Peter 2:11). Those who empower us, the media and society have put a face on what love is and it has caused many to fall victim to it. If love can be bought, it can be squandered away and sold also. If you only think physical attraction is love, in time the physical will deteriorate and so will love. There is a reason God doesn't want us to have countless sexual partners. Scrap YOLO in this department. Also I beg and urge women not to try to think like or live like a man. You feel that it must be in love after that sexual encounter (Song of Solomon 8:4). It was so intense and exhilarating! "I feel like we connected," is what you tell yourself. When we have sex with someone there is a spiritual and emotional tie that is developed (1 Corinthians 6:16). And when that tie is suddenly torn apart it causes heartache, sends a wave of emotions and our mental (thoughts) are in a tailspin. Furthermore, the reason why God wants us to be married; so that we can avoid the ills of lust and experience true and pure love (Ephesians 5:31). Trust me you haven’t been hurt while in love as much as God has. Or was it really lust disguised as love because God wasn't present.
(1 Thessalonians 4:4-5)

So you say you are done loving? How can that be (1 John 4:8). You can't be done with love. It is the main ingredient in the recipe God used to create us. Love God exclusively. Learn to forgive others, it helps love grow. Holding a grudge or hoarding ills from previous relationships cuts love off at its source. As a whole we tend to believe God has forgotten about us because of the struggle which is life, when in hindsight we have really never sought him earnestly and worked our relationship with Him (Acts 17:27). Praising and praying sincerely to God is pleasing to Him. Heck! We praise celebrities and profess our love for them. How much more love and favor would you have in life if you were infatuated with God as you are with the Obamas or Bey and Jay? Endless is the answer.

What if God did the same, imagine where we would be? What if Jesus became scorn by the way he was treated or by the names he was called (Matthew 24:14). All the love Jesus poured out, his preaching and sacrifice. Where would we be if he made the choice to forgo his demise. We would be doomed to perish(John 3:16). But his love for us wouldn't let him, his love never failed him(1 John 4:9-10). The premise of this post that we realize that God is Love (1 John 4:8). So never give up on Love because Love didn't give up on you.

Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.

- Chaz G. Tyler

Seeking a life of significance versus a lifestyle of success requires that you recognize the importance of operating within God’s operation, not your own.

- Marshawn Evans

Help Those Who Need It.

Bureaucrats approach the podium, prepared speech in hand and preach Christian values, but those are just words. Does he really believe them or live by them. I'll let you be the judge. There is no revelation, a lot of what they speak has been said before and selling hope never fails. That revelation comes from God Almighty. The same God that we have slowly and covertly omitted out of every aspect of our life. Sometimes I feel like America is a motherfucking garbage man, tossing out what it doesn't care for. Excuse my candor. There is visible distrust and doubt the citizens experience due to government. Our government also exudes this amongst itself, how can they expect to bear fruit other than what they planted. This same country chastises and degrades those who are hampered and trapped in the perpetual cycle of heart wrenching poverty; does just enough to provide a way out so that they can say, "he or she made it, so can you." (Matthew 25:45). Please don't be facetious and make a mockery of us.

While you sit on your beautiful white high horse, you frown upon poverty as if it is a disease. Provide little hope unless it is election time. Fabrication of lies and plans to acquire funding (1 Timothy 6:10). Followed by misguided, lax, dishonest spending of money that should trickle down to the communities and people so that they may better themselves and living situations. Then you wonder why we take the "by any means necessary" approach. Or as the old New Orleans saying goes "get it how you live." What do you expect!?

We are made to believe that our success corresponds with God's blessings upon us. Now most are under the impression that God doesn't love them or favor them as much. When in reality there is glory in that suffering (Romans 5:3-5). As i digress, the bible says it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for the rich man to enter Kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24). Society has made the majority unknowingly slaves to money. Back to the issue at hand, majority either believe there is no God or believes in a god other than God Almighty. So if you're a firm believer in evolution, which I steadfastly disapprove. We are only exercising our natural instinct to survive. When families and children are involved there isn't a limit to what people won't to do to see those they love avoid suffering and/or heartbreak.

It bothers me deeply when I talk to friends. Not just black or white. My military service has given me privilege to meet and interact with people from a plethora of ethnicities and walks of life. And when the  majority of people who feel as though the government and powers that be don't empathize, one tends to wonder. In turn, hope is lost and love deteriorates. Moral and mental martial law is enacted. And until the problem is supplanted at the root, the tree will continue to bear fruit as aforementioned. I just pray wholeheartedly that a change comes before Jesus Christ does. I have come to a conclusion that the change has to start with me. I vow to share the Word and spread the Gospel so that Jesus' existence and ultimate sacrifice won't be in vain. God's blessings to all.

- Chaz G. Tyler

Bliss

I refuse to believe ignorance is bliss. In reality ignorance is just that, ignorance. Being content with ignorance in terms of education, life, or a situation is everything but bliss. Ignorance has never been a valid excuse or explanation. Once reality arrives and you are faced with what you considered bliss it leads to heartaches, headaches, and pain. Equip yourself with knowledge. Don't be blatantly oblivious to what's going on around and inside you. Once secure, there is comfort in knowing. Knowledge is bliss.

- Chaz Tyler

1st Amendment

The Free Exercise Clause is the accompanying clause with the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution that reads :

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof...

I always wondered as a kid, why does my mom beat me if i refuse to go to church? Yes beat, she was a stern believer in spare the rod spoil the child. It had to be an important place I thought and I knew God whether I liked it or not. But in school we always pledged allegiance to the flag and we mentioned God somewhere towards the end to appease the religious zealots I guess. As the clause says, no establishment of religion. Furthermore, how can a nation that claims to be born in Christian values and abides by Christian principles and doctrine, yet doesn't uniquely, specifically and directly state such in the 1st Amendment. Then be bold enough to enact a clause to deter any thought of establishing Christian for the appeasement of other religions. Since the genesis of the United States of America, God Almighty hasn't been properly acknowledged and engrained into our society. Moreover, we aren't a Christian nation, just a nation that wants the protection and blessing of God, hence one nation under God. We ignore Him when things are going as we plan. Then in the face of dire situations we either pray, question and ask why, blame and make a mockery of Him. Yet he still loves us and waits patiently, eagerly and with an unparalleled Spirit of grace to save us from our own transgressions. The devil is champing at the bit to devour whomever grants him the authority. Pray for our leaders, our country and the people living in. God's Blessing to all.

- Chaz G. Tyler

Wait on The Lord

Contrary to popular belief, life isn't a race.Patience truly is a virtue and not just a popular quote. Trying to keep up with the Joneses will have you counting pennies and you can only keep up a facadefor so long until it's too much to bear. We have become so self-righteous thatwe truly believe what we want, we deserve. We use God as though he is ouranointed ATM. I compare it to the stock market. We invest and buy stock in whatwe think God is willing to buy. For the view of others we sell shares bring ourstocks down but secretly engage insider trading. We kick and claw for ourappeasement and advantage even if at the expense of others. St. Peter and theangels aren’t standing around with scorecards. There is only one road that leads to glory, that narrow path and Jesus is at the toll booth. No one gets through without his approval (Matthew 7:13-14 John 14:6).

Patience is a virtue. If I had a dollar for every time I heard that therewouldn't be enough banks to hold them all. The honest truth is that God'stimeline doesn't exactly match ours. We profess God's will be done, but we needto remember it’s when God sees fit also. If we had everything we wanted when wewanted it, yes would praise and thank God but we would probably be too caughtup to live as God desires (Proverbs 16:8-9 Proverbs 16 18:19). Society or theworld that satan is the ruler of and has domain on only the unbelievers ofChrist, tells us we need all these different possessions to be happy (2Corinthians 4:4). So we pray to God to bless us, because he wants us to behappy and prosper. The belief is that God will grant me my every desire if Ifollow Him. That old saying, “the best things in life are free” is absolutelytrue. God’s amazing saving grace, his love and Jesus coming to atone for oursins. However, the ever clever creatures that we are will devise a plan to getit, by any means necessary. We become immensely engaged in the thought that Godwants us to prosper; our valid reason for going to any lengths to consume it.If God wants you to have it you won’t have to compromise your morals for it bybeing greedy and gluttonous. Showing no patience or trust in God, believing thedevil when he says we need it and then we have the audacity to praise God forit. (Hebrews 13:5 2 Corinthians 12:6-10) Just as God will not give us more thanwe can bear; he will not give us in excess more than we can bear so that we mayavoid a haughty spirit. God does this because he loves us and doesn't want usto stray. (2 Peter 3:9)

Don't compare your life and situation to others. Uniqueness as a person meanshaving a unique path in life. When wrapped up in comparing yourself to others, youplace unfair goals onto yourself. You have the slightest clue what the nextperson did to get there and we tend to comprise ourselves and well-being toachieve what others have. Oh yea, comparison is a sin too (2 Corinthians10:12)! He, satan compared himself to God Almighty and wanted to replace God tobecome a god himself. (Ezekiel 28:15 Isaiah 14:13-14). Comparing yourself toothers reveal secret insecurities we are oblivious too, and that most don'trealize. When we are comfortable and content with what God has giving us, whatothers have is of little concern. Rather than comparing, we thank God for theblessings he has bestowed upon us and others. Comparing ourselves to otherstakes the uniqueness out of our life. Instead of people saying you remind meof, they should see someone content with God.(1 Timothy 6:6-7)

We have faith that our paychecks and taxes will be on time. Faith in a man orwoman who proclaims they love us. Have patience and faith in The Lord. God hasgiven assurance through salvation. (Hebrews 10:22) Seek God eagerly and earnestly, let the plan God has set forth come to fruition. (Habakuk 2:3)

- Chaz Gerard Tyler

Life Live Love: Black Women

I'll start by saying Proverbs 31:10-31 will forever be a passage women should try to mirror themselves and principles against. Angry, mad, disgruntled, illogical, irrational just a few words used to describe black women. But these words can be used to describe a woman of any race or ethnicity. Even in cultures where women are dominated by their male counterparts and have no voice, albeit it secretly, they suffer the same frustrations. So why have black women garnered such negative connotations? I felt obligated to write on this subject because those same women made me what I am today.

 “Defining myself, as opposed to being defined by others, is one of the most difficult challenges I face” - Carol Moseley-Braun


Diary of a MAD black woman, why women love this movie but despise the title is beyond my comprehension. Looking back as far as slavery, a black woman was a symbol of beauty, strength, and perseverance. Forceful separated from her husband and forced to be head of her family and care for masta' and his household. Cooking, cleaning, and nursing. Her sun-torched skin even without the ability to pamper her femininity, refused to crack and she aged beautifully and gracefully. She was degradingly mocked by white women because of her full coarse hair prominent facial features, voluptuous breast and her healthy derrière. All of which made her secretly desirable to her masta'. At this time strong, resilient, fierce and all the while being loving and comforting were characteristics of this beautiful woman. Perseverance, in my opinion, was the main characteristic that embodied every aspect of her and her being at the time.

 “I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the washtub. From there I was promoted to the kitchen cook. And from there I promoted myself into business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations. I have built my factory on my own ground” - Madame C.J. Walker


Looking now into the civil rights era when the black woman was just as important if not more important. Many carved their own piece of history. Fannie Lou Hamer an advocate for black voter registration and helped to fund the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party in a time when the South was a racial cesspool of injustice and Mississippi was well known and proud of their white heritage. Fannie Lou Hamer boldly stated, I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired. Ella Baker a pioneer of the civil rights movement dating back to the 1930s, was a mentor to Rosa Parks and we know her significance. She was also leader of the NAACP in New York fighting for the desegregation of New York public schools. In the words of Ella Baker and I quote, “remember we are not fighting for the freedom of the negro alone, but for the freedom of the human spirit a larger freedom that encompasses all mankind.”  While her husband was out working or engaged in the civil rights movement or revolution; the black woman proved critical to the success of each. Many women handled the donations, planning, and organizing affairs all of which were essential to these operations going off without a hitch. Even taking care of the household and supporting her husband, being the helper God intended her to be. Do you think MLK or Malcolm X were the men they were without Coretta and Betty? As strong a black man in their generation, where do you think they received their comfort and loving from. When times were calloused I'm more than sure, even though they feared for their man's well-being they supported him to no end. Without a doubt, home was in order, how else could that man lead others if his home wasn't taken care of by his black woman. At the height of the war when the draft swooped in and sent men off to war, away from their families the black woman was the backbone of the community. Making sure affairs were handled. There was no Skype, FaceTime, e-mail and the like. The strength that black woman had to posses not knowing daily if her husband was still alive and shaken to the core by every knock at the door in fear of getting news of his demise. She prayed earnestly, kids still made it to school, and home was orderly. No matter what she dealt with internally, her faith was never shaken. Education was available to black women at that time but it was more for the privileged and headstrong I would imagine. Tending to home was the primary role of a black women, a role she embraced and excelled in.

 “I used to want the words ‘She tried’ on my tombstone. Now I want ‘She did.’”
  -Katherine Dunham

 “It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” – Lena Horne


Fast forward to today. Black women were previously obligated to household duties now we have plethora of doctors, dentist, writers, pastors, entrepreneurs, actresses. Fiercely independent, immensely educated, and financially secure. I love my black women. So why black women are still viewed in such a negative, degrading manner and labeled unjustly? The media plays a role in this and black women have also become their own worst enemies. Educated, professional and working class black women have waged war against uneducated women, strippers, video vixens and the like. The claims are that they are dragging down and helping to further degrade the black woman's image. In the latter’s defense they view “educated black women” a term I use loosely as insensitive and snobbish. Viewed as daddy's girl who had things handed to them, and instead of criticizing they should reach back and help out. Both make valid points. I reserve the right to not choose a side. Impartial to either but I will say that black women should reach back and help their black sisters who want the help and try to convince those who don't they do. Also black sisters should stop degrading themselves for money, fame, and attention and using surviving as a motive and complaining about the "double standard" that pertains to men. In my opinion, women should not try go about life as a man should. Of what value is living like a man adding to life. So many black women have to be the mother and father; provider and comforter. May I add that black women need to stop attacking each other because of skin color and weight. Judging and condemning are not tools to build confidence or inspiration. It plants a seed of self-doubt and ineptitude. Don’t add to the stress of life. Media mainly shows black women in music videos, scantily clad and degraded by the same men whom God created to protect them. These air regularly on a daily basis. He may not be rapping about you specifically, but some guy you come in contact is. Or on reality TV shows that is labeled "entertainment" but it portrays black women as short tempered, confrontational, superficial and self-righteous. Black women are also on television positively, but those shows are few and are aired on television networks that are mediocre in comparison. By having such few and only aired once a week, it’s apparent why little black girls are choosing the glamorous life. I have yet to see black woman cast as a lead exclusively on HBO or Showtime, but I'm not a huge TV person, so if they have I stand corrected. Now Oprah's impact on society has transcended every boundary across the gamut. I recommend any young woman to read the success of Ms. Winfrey or read the biography of Maya Angelou. Now before I proceed, which are aired more, music videos or TV shows, and why? The infatuation society has with the female body is grossly overlooked. Many commercials, movies and products are now centered on the woman’s body for selling and advertising. Think on it. Now back on track, we have Michelle Obama, the Queen Nefertiti of her time in my opinion. Her faith, support, strength, loyalty and love helped mold Barack, he said so himself. She has headed the Let’s Move campaign to prevent and combat child obesity. She is the reason Barack Obama is the man he is today. The First Lady has thrust an unambiguous spotlight on the black woman. Let's work to keep it that way.

 “Deal with yourself as an individual worthy of self respect, and make everyone else deal with you the same way” – Nikki Giovanni

“Just because I have my standards they think I’m a bitch” - Diana Ross


What a perfect segue. Black women have found it increasingly hard to find a good black man. As I digress, depending on the woman the term "good black man" varies. So I'll refrain trying to pinpoint, but I have a clue. The assassination of the black man's character by the media causes plenty men, from my experience talking to, feel inferior to a successful and independent black woman. In a sense it emasculates the man. I am not saying that a woman should put off success for a chance at marriage. Then there are the main culprits; jail, commitment issues, and homosexuality. Commitment issues encompass all the ills women suffer in relationships from dishonesty to promiscuity. Now as much as black women love there homosexual friends they should be upset that so many men continue to chose that path in life; this further depletes the number of possible suitors. Jail, that's self explanatory. For my ladies who still love him while on lockdown. Free him, whoever he is. Lastly but never to be mistaken as the least; more often seen as the number one culprit, white women. The equivalent to war our country is now engaged has being waged against white women. Just the thought of a black man with a white woman tends to make black women cringe. "Why is he with her, there are plenty good black women." Many view it as repulsive, despicable, a heinous act punishable by death. There may or may not be a little exaggeration in that last statement. I'm a big proponent of black love and preserving the integrity of the black family. But I still believe love is color blind. Don't get caught in the mindset of settling for a man because you have a timeline to complete or you feel as though you deserve one because you believe your credentials warrant a husband. A man doesn't measure your worth, but the person you are and your beauty inside and out is the stamp that validates you.

 "Trust yourself. Think for yourself. Act for yourself. Speak for yourself. Be yourself. Imitation is suicide." - Marva Collins

 "A woman's heart should be so hidden in God that a man has to seek Him just to find her."
- Maya Angelou


Moreover, I would like to retract to the beginning of the post if I may. Just because you have been labeled as such, doesn't mean you have to act as such. Accepting and being content with those labels are antithesis to what a black woman is. Don't take my words as gospel. Check your history. I'd be typing for a year trying to touch on the significance of the black woman. At times those labels may fit temporarily within the circumstances, but they should not define you, ever. No matter your shade, from the fairest skin to the darkest. Black is beautiful.

 “What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can imagine” - Oprah Winfrey


- Chaz G. Tyler

Zodiac Karma & Christianity

I'll try my best to explain how and why the zodiac and karma are contradictory to what Christianity teaches. A brief, concise description of the two. In the end the choice is yours if you decide to live by Karma and rely on the zodiac for daily inspiration, or insight to the future. I'm not judging or condemning at all, just informing.

 

Let’s start with zodiac or the signs. My birthday indicated that I was Gemini and I partially intrigued but the horoscopes. Now my stance has changed, never really saw the significance or lack thereof.  Just thought it was cool to check in with the stars to see what was in my future. The reasons we check horoscopes vary but in the end, the world and its vast complexity is the driving force. Yes they may lift your spirits and provide hope, that’s why we check them daily. But if you examine your horoscope against another there isn’t much difference. The statements are very vague and ambiguous and can associate with any sign and be interpreted in more than one way. “You have been dealing with a weight issue, eat healthy and stick to your diet; watch the transformation take place.” Two-thirds of America is considered overweight and countless others have self-esteem issues or are self conscious about their weight. So how can an astrologer possibly miss anyone? Lastly, the one thing astrologers and horoscopes never make mention of is the “shadow side.” Why? Because no one wants to hear or read anything negative that pertains to them, others yes. If your horoscope enlightened you and others to the negative about yourself, or read something that was unfavorable about your future would you still believe your horoscope? Confiding in or viewing a horoscope as outlook life dilutes the significance of God and the Word. The Word of God along with prayer and faith is the lamp that leads you to God (Psalms 119:105). Seeking counsel and validity for life's occurrences and dilemmas either present or soon coming to fruition is futile when God already has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11 Proverbs 3:5-6). Astrology defined the study that assumes and attempts to interpret the influence of the heavenly bodies on human affairs. Horoscope defined a prediction of future events or advice for future behavior based on such a diagram. For starters the bible warns against astrology (Isaiah 47:10-14). How accurate are interpretations and predictions? The Mayans used their popular 260 day calendar, the Tzolk’in, along with their interpretation of the stars coupled with mathematics allowed them to predict the end of the world. Accurate? Not in the least. The purpose of a horoscope is to gain insight into a person’s character and foretell the future. Complete contradiction to Christianity. Being in search of a person's character arouses antagonism that causes you to conjure a judgment against. Worrying about the future causes you to lose focus of the present, and may cause you to repeat your past (Matthew 6:27-30). Allow God to lead trust him wholly (Psalms 143:10). I challenge anyone who is a horoscope enthusiast to keep journal daily for one week without viewing your horoscope. Then compare and contrast the two. Let me know the results and accuracy or lack thereof.

 

Karma is a bitch isn’t it? God knows what you did, now karma is biting you in the ass. Simply put karma isn’t a Christian belief and God doesn’t exercise karma. God sees our secrets and will judge them (Romans 2:16). So what would your fate be?  If he did and all those secret spiteful acts or deeds you perform even though to hurt others would literally be the death of you and/or you would probably be rat or rodent of some sort in the next life. Karma defined, action seen as bringing upon oneself inevitable results, good or bad, either in this life or in a reincarnation. Good deeds and bad deeds yield the like, is a common practiced associated with Buddhism and Hinduism. A red flag should be raised instantly! God Almighty is the only God worthy of worship and praise (Jeremiah 25:6 Exodus 34:15). How many, if they truly believed in karma know they would be destined to perish? Karma states that if you do bad expect bad. Christianity teaches and I believe that if you do badly, God's amazing saving grace is still available to you (Ephesians 2:8-9 Psalms 34:18). I'm going to venture into a recent touchy subject, just to make a point. Early December, sadly 26 victims, children and adults were murdered in a senseless act. So you're telling me those children at such a tender age committed and act so heinous that it warranted death. Please explain to me how 26 people who either in this life or the last, by chance happened to be in the same location when karma struck and they just so happened to all be violators of Karma. In the same breath if you believe karma they will go on to another miserable existence due to reincarnation. Christianity teaches and I believe me that these children will be forever in the love and care of God (Matthew 18:14). The teachers whom sacrificed their lives are in the host of angles also. I'm sure Jesus Christ validated their sacrifice (John 14:6). Wholeheartedly I disagree. Everyday babies are born with illnesses that will tug at even the most hateful person. The karmic fallacy that those babies are receiving due punishment for being a detestable person in the previous life adds fuel to the sheer disdain I posses for karma. Christianity offers God's amazing grace. Jesus sacrificed himself for our sins so that we may have eternal life and be glorified on the day of judgment (Romans 8:30). Pray for patience and have faith in God. I'll say it until I'm purple in the face. If you're ever going through anything in life and you look down to see one set of footprints. You're not alone. Jesus Christ is carrying you until you're strong enough to make the journey.

 

- Chaz G. Tyler

 

 

Life is similar to mathematics. There are many problems. Not every answer is achieved with the same solution.

- Chaz G. Tyler

God Completes. We Compliment.

In the beginning when God created man, he knew it wasn't best for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). So at the vertex of his creation, woman was created. A helper as stated in scripture. A few ways helper can be described; companion, colleague, someone who assist, supports or compliments. Man and woman, one in the same, guided by God who completes that union (Ephesians 5:21). Humbling yourself, loving God and building a relationship with Him first and foremost. Trying to find someone who puts the S in US and the E in WE without loving ME first is a search in futility. A relationship with God once attained can't be broken, it completes you. The search commences to find a spouse to compliment you spiritual, mentally and physically. Physical attraction is essential but as time passes so does the physical. If you lost your eyesight would you still love the person? The spiritual and mental is what continues to flourish in a relationship. When man and woman join in union under the watch of God their spirits are intertwined. Not just their fingers as they stand at the altar. This body will deteriorate eventually but in a relationship, their is no limit to the love we can experience spiritually and mentally. We are made in the image of God, his Spirit is in us and his love has no plateau or boundary. (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Too many are making this choice on there own. We have our own characteristics of the ideal spouse. I'll refrain from making a list. Anyway, everyone we met isn't "the one." Remember everything is in God's plan. Even the husband or wife. I'm guilty of this myself, on the surface they are everything we want; just what we dreamt of and envision. Some go as far as judging against what society approves. We'll come back to this later. "God send me a good man/woman, I'm ready and your will be done." Unconsciously we are asking God to send us the good man/woman we want. And when they come along, secretly we rejoice, Amen! Be careful what you pray for. When you get what you desire and it's not what you expect, don't ask God why. Or sit and wonder why me or what did I do? You prayed to no end and received what you requested. When we pray for anything and in our hearts and conscience have your own selfish concerns we tend to experience adverse consequences (Jeremiah 17 9-10). We can't outsmart God and our decision making is subpar when God is the measuring stick (Proverbs 28:26).

Lets look at this word discernment. Discernment should be applied in every aspect of life. But for the sake of this article, discernment in choosing a husband or wife. Don't consult with those who may have a bias; friends, family, a book (Think Like A Man), the media, society, and definitely not a social network. Let God find that husband or wife. God knows so let Him search their heart (Matthew 5:8). God knows our plans and has the blueprint to our life (Jeremiah 29:11). No amount of schooling or experience from a self proclaimed relationship expert can find the mate for you that God can. God is a Spirit (John 4:24). Now you find me someone better to find you a SOULmate.

Stay with me as I detour briefly but this has to stated, same subject but in a different light. Truthfully speaking, not everyone will be married. That doesn't mean that you're not in the favor of God. You are still a child of God and he loves you all the same. As stated previously, God has a plan for you also. There is a misconception that to be happy and enjoy life fully you have to be married. Truth be told although a beautiful union, marriage will not bra stroll in the park (1Corinthians 7:28). Just look at the divorce numbers and unhappy people who are married. A myth if I ever heard one. Moreover, Jesus wasn't married, look at the life he lived. The effect he had on the world. His existence is the reason we are blessed with the grace of God. Not being married, we have more time to devote to God's plan. There are a plethora of ways to do so, just pray earnestly and let God lead (1 Corinthians (7:32-34).

Newlyweds fresh off honeymoon, bliss. Time to build this union, don't get too crazy, it's just the beginning. Man and woman are both responsible and shoulder an equal share in doing so. God created roles for man and woman. First, I would like to highlight that the Bible doesn't state that a woman finds a husband. That's why finding a wife is such a blessing incomparable and unparalleled (Proverbs 18:22 Proverbs 31:-10)! For this union to flourish, each role has to be fulfilled. Man is the head of the wife, not her master. Leading the household. c
Considering his wife in all decisions, unselfish and always having his wife's interest at heart. His role as provider and protector. Loving and cherishing her as Jesus loved the church. Giving the same love to her as he would to himself (Ephesians 5:28-29). Loving her so that he would sacrifice his own existence for her (Ephesians 5:25). That's love! God's role for a woman, the helper of her man. His companion and confidant, best friend and biggest supporter, the mother of his children and most importantly, his wife. A good wife bestows pride upon her husband (Proverbs 31:11-31). Ain't nothing like a heavy praying woman.

Rare and unique. Man and woman brought together to compliment the other. Joined together in marriage, that choice is made with discernment from God. Pure love, unselfishness, support, joy, and a foundation rooted by God. It's a truly beautiful union only completed by God.

- Chaz G. Tyler

Prayer Faith and Sublimation

Prayer: Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up Luke 18:1

Faith: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

Sublimation: "used to denote diversion of undesirable natural trends or impulses, by education or conscious effort, into some more desirable type of behavior or activity."

Pray Charlie is what my mother told me. Have Faith is what my grandmother taught me. But what is sublimation and how can we use it to better ourselves?

Prayer filled with doubt or lack of faith is a prayer in futility. I use (James 1:6-8) as my reference. I believe every follower of Christ has some form of faith. Why? We have faith that if we follow God that we will be blessed with our heart's desire. That same faith we have in acquiring earthly possession tends to be lacking when it comes acquiring the spiritual. We have a wall of deeply rooted secrets and insecurities we live with.  No way God can turn me around we proclaim. How could God, it's something that's engrained in me. Toxic thoughts that reaffirm bad habits or as I like to say, a deathly vice. Thomas Browne states that, “The vices we scoff at in others, laugh at us within ourselves.” Vice defined, immoral conduct; depraved or degrading behavior. From the Latin word vitium, meaning failing or defect. Drug use, sexual promiscuity, prostitution, gambling, recklessness, cheating, lying, and selfishness are commonly considered vices. How can God, even with his grace, infinite love and wisdom supplant something that is so deeply rooted?

 

Too often leaning on our own wisdom, we cause our prayer to be ineffective. I know me and I can't change. Doubt is one of satan's most effective tools of deception. Sidestepping for a moment, I refuse to capitalize satan. When we doubt that God can "fix" us, we believe that satan is correct. There isn’t too many who haven't dealt with some type of childhood, parental or relational heart wrenching and life altering situation. In wake of the previous; insecurity, inferiority, depression, anxiety, self consciousness, and self esteem to name a few tend to cultivate. Hopelessness and despair along with acceptance and contentment allow the aforementioned to flourish. No one understands and no one cares flood our mind. Trust is just about nonexistent and love is similar to the weather changing daily. We are subject to the occasional rainy day that wasn't expected and there isn't any umbrella in sight. Sunny days arrive but clouds of doubt usually hamper us from experiencing them in their entirety. We should take off our mental boxing gloves and stop beating ourselves down; instead sublimation infused with prayerful discernment and faith from God Almighty without doubt we will overcome. Moreover, professing your faith for all to see and possessing faith internally are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Why? Because God examines your heart! He knows you better than you know yourself.

Sublimation is defined so let's undress this word. Beginning with, used to denote diversion of undesirable natural trends or impulses. Diversion defined: the act or an instance of diverting or turning aside; deviation. Trend defined, prevailing tendencies, we tend to unconsciously follow and impulses, the influence of a particular feeling or mental state are acted out either in thought or physically. Take for example, when dating we have a trend of having reservations rather than approaching with an open mind. Yes we want to protect our hearts and ourselves but if you have a trend of thinking negatively your perspective will be skewed as such. Let's look at an example of how our impulses affect us in thought and the physical. Now in dealing with this new person as soon as they act in a manner we aren't comfortable with or reminds of our past (thoughts) we impulsively think their motives are bad and we may rid ourselves of their presence (physical). Continuing to break down sublimation, by education or conscious effort. Education isn't exclusive to a book or classroom setting. Education in this instance is learning what triggers these feelings in us and how they continue to hold us hostage and from God’s grace. With prayer and faith we have to learn to make a conscious effort to combat those negatives in life so we can experience life as God expects us to. Being fearful of being hurt again or having a past experience revisited is a hindrance to defeating satan (Ephesians 6:12). I'll put this into perspective for you. As I stated previously all are mental strangleholds that neatly make the bed for vices to lay in comfortable. We are then stuck in a perpetual cycle of insanity with repetitive actions searching for a distinctive conclusion. As I digress, we are further giving foothold to satan, and believing that God cant "fix" me. Thinking that you're destined to be a certain way and deal with issues that seem to continually arise is toxic to your mental and spiritual being. I'm here to combat that. Strap on your spiritual seatbelt. God didn't give you a spirit of fear (2 Tim. 1:7). Jesus' entire existence and manifestation was not only to save us but to destroy the works of satan (1 John 3:8). Harsh as it may sound, but I refuse to apologize for my frankness. Scripture states that the pit of fire is reserved for the fearful (Revelations 21:8). When we are fearful and doubtful we acknowledge that we are defeated. And that Jesus' existence and sacrifice was in vain. I want to take time a moment to share a couple verses (Isaiah 50:6 Isaiah 52:14). Simply put, Jesus endured! We need not be bothered endlessly by our past. Disregard fearfulness and doubtful of ourselves and whatever mental stranglehold we deal with. It's already defeated, have faith.

Lastly, into some more desirable type of behavior or activity. Faith affects behavior in every aspect of our being and prayer is exercise for our spiritual, the activity. No further explanation is needed as far as I’m concerned.

 

Prayer, faith and sublimation, hence the title, lets conjure this healing gumbo baby into something we can use as food for the soul.

In military terms diversion and deviation is used to confuse and defeat the enemy, that enemy being satan. Stripping him of his authority on our lives and letting God take control and allowing God's will to done. Whatever the trends in life we follow and cause us to act impulsively can be combated with unwavering prayer and faith. Making a conscious effort to become educated and immersed into the Word, the sword of the Spirit. Ephesians (6:10-18). Having faith in God affects your behavior more that you may know. When we are faced with fear, begin to feel mentally defeated, trapped by a vice or attacked by an emotion that is opposite of love; our faith can and will pull us through. The activity of prayer and meditation strengthens, ties up loose ends and makes sturdy a shaky foundation. In conclusion, ; instead sublimation infused with prayerful discernment and faith from God Almighty without doubt we will overcome

 

- Chaz G. Tyler

 

Bring God Back.

We preach Christian values, but those are just words without revelation. The revelation comes from God Almighty, the same God that we have slowly and covertly omitted out of every aspect of our life. There is visible distrust and doubt that citizens experience from the government. Our government also exhibits this type of disbelief. How can they expect to bear fruit other than what they planted? The same country that chastises and degrades those who are hampered and trapped in the perpetual cycle of heart wrenching poverty, does just enough to provide a "way out" so they can say; "he or she made it, so can you." Please don't make a mockery of us! As they sit on their beautiful white high horse and frown upon poverty as if it is a disease. While providing little hope unless it is election time and fabricating lies and plans to acquire funding. This is followed by misguided, lax, and dishonest spending of money that should trickle down to the people and their communities, so that they may better themselves. All of these inconsistencies occur daily, but there is question of why we take the "by any means necessary" approach. What do you expect!? We are made to believe that our success corresponds with God's blessings upon us. Unfortunately, most are under the impression that God doesn't love them or favor them. When in reality there is glory in that suffering (Romans 5:3-5) . The bible says it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for the rich man to enter Kingdom of God (Matthew 19:24). Society has made many, unknowingly slaves to money. I digress, back to the issue at hand. Majority either believe there is no God or believe in a god other than God Almighty. So if you're a firm believer in evolution, which I steadfastly disapprove, we are only exercising our natural instinct to survive. When families and children are involved, there isn't a limit to what people won't do to see those they love avoid suffering and/or heartbreak. It bothers me deeply when I talk to friends, not just black or white. My military service has given me privilege to meet and interact with people from a myriad of ethnicities and walks of life. When you have a large group of people who feel as though the government and powers that be don't empathize, one tends to wonder. In turn or (As a result) hope is lost and love deteriorates. Moral and mental martial law is enacted And until the problem is supplanted at the root, the tree will continue to bear fruit as aforementioned. I truly pray wholeheartedly that a change comes before Jesus Christ does. I have come to a conclusion that the change has to start within. Share the word and spread the gospel so that Jesus' existence and ultimate sacrifice won't be in vain. God's blessings to all.

Chaz G. Tyler

Response to Sen. Reid comments

Sen. Harry Reid stated that Hurricane Katrina paled in comparison to Hurricane Sandy. As an N.O native & survivor I beg to differ. Not to downplay Hurricane Sandy and those affected at all. First I would like to state that northern residents didn't have to suffering the embarrassment being viewed as a "third world country and citizens labeled refugees in the same country they inhabit and pay taxes. But me and my family and countless others sat in a flooded city 5 days after "Katrina." Oil, infection and dead bodies infested the waters. Also martial law and near 100 degree heat and humidity on days to follow. One deceased family member and neighbors I can't count. Placing my elderly family members and other elderly in the 'hood inside a small fishing boat to insure their safety as me and two others walked 3 miles. In waist to eyelid high water depending on the area of the lopsided and unleveled streets of New Orleans. My own mother had to be quarantined due to an infection. The mental anguish not just from "Katrina" and the city and state government dragging their feet. Also federal government hesitant, and a president who flew over to view us suffering. I digress...just had to vent.

Between Lonely & Lust

Too many are looking for love, somewhere between lonely and lust. Love isn't found between one's legs either. No hand can pull love out of a pocket or purse. Love isn't driven nor can a price tag be popped to validate it. Love is deep in the soul and engrained in a person's thoughts and heart. A mute can't say that they love you, but they can display it in their actions.

- Chaz G. Tyler

Stereotypes are for the neglectful and ignorant who are reluctant to find out otherwise or are too arrogant to risk being proven wrong.

- Chaz G. Tyler

INTIMACY

Genuine INTIMACY can best be defined by breaking the word into syllables, in-to-me-see. In other words, "I will let you see into the deepest parts of me without fear or hesitation. I will peer into the deepest parts of you without judgment and condemnation. I will love you as completely and unconditionally as I love myself."

- Shannon Ethridge
The Fantasy Fallacy

Praying to God for direction and change in your life and not heeding what is asked of you is futile. Its no different than asking for directions and choosing instead to take the path you see fit. You'll end up lost in both situations.

- Chaz G. Tyler

1 Timothy 1:15-17

15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise,[a] be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Love Isn't In A Phone

I assembled this in response to a blog I came across titled, Locked Phones=Red Flags. Written by AskCheyB is the blog's author. A locked phone doesn't constitute a woman not having trust in a man. It's not a far-fetched idea but its reaching a little. Me personally I keep my phone locked for security reasons. In today's society a lost phone can mean compromising confidential personal information which many have in their hand held device, hence the reason to keep it locked. Don't run someone off trying to be sneaky by investigating his phone without permission. Which makes you no different than the man who may or may not be hiding info in his phone. If a relationship's trust is hinged on if a IPhone is accessible or not, that relationship has deeper problems and there are hidden insecurities that exist. Not to say that men and women don’t keep their phone locked for the aforementioned reason, but if it is that big of an issue its best you end things. A problem as small as a locked cell phone will only open doors to a myriad of trust issues. Trust is defined, reliance on the integrity and integrity is doing the right thing when no one is watching. So if he or lacks integrity and not worthy of trust than I suggest you seek another companion who is. Because once you place a negative filter on things you tend to view all things in a negative light and with an obscured reality. Give your man a chance to prove their worth and trust before you jump to conclusion about a locked cell phone. Don't emasculate him by attacking his character and not taking his word as truth. At a certain point he may concede to the lack of trust and seek someone who does value his character and word. It’s the heart of a man you should be after. Ephesians 5:22-23  are two verses to apply to your spirit and life. If a man hasn't openly in his actions submitted to God what do you want with him anyway. Prayer and discernment will help you rid yourself of the stereotypes of men. Making God the center of your relationship and not the judging on whether his phone locked or not is the basis of his true love for you. Don't let lust and loneliness be a deciding factor in your decision. In conclusion, be patient and love yourself. You think you know what you want in a man, but God knows what you need and he will make the addition when and if he sees fit. Focus on God and wait until he guides the proper man into your life.

Don't take everything people say to appease you as truth. Practice discernment and pray.

- Chaz G. Tyler