Long-suffering

2 Peter 3:14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; 16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. 17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. 18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

When the true gospel is not preached and Christians are faced with catastrophes, natural disasters, financial woes or family matters and the like. Christians find themselves questioning God and his decision making and asking where was God in the time of trouble. First and foremost I would like to share Psalms 115:2-3 Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is now there God? But our God is in the heavens; he hath done whatsoever he pleased. Scripture states that God does all for his own sake, which God states twice for emphasis in Isaiah 48:10-11; moreover our ignorance of the knowledge of God is evident because we can't fathom His greatness. That is why we are charged to have faith and lean not on our understanding. Galatians 5:22 states that long-suffering is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. 1 Peter 4:16 says that Christians should be proud to suffer in the name of God. Realizing that this world is much more complex than ourselves and situations, we hope wholly in God and pray without ceasing. As Pilate questioned Jesus, he was reminded that the Kingdom of God is not of the world. That is why we keep on the armor of God and prepared for the spiritual war that is ongoing. Don't lose heart I urge you. God allows long-suffering for the sake of repentance 2 Peter 3:9. God Almighty, contrary to what many say to blaspheme his name, doesn't delight in souls lost.

Ridiculous it is for anyone to expect at the end of their long-suffering is an abundance of worldly gain. Charismatic churches and the "prosperity gospel" is a bane to the Christian faith. Who wouldn't want God if he would give them the lust of their eyes, lust of their flesh and the pride of life. For a person to think themselves to be blessed because they are enjoying benefits and fortune which others are not is ignorant to true happiness and blessings. Are you implying when yourself or others who don’t have these possessions you consider “blessings,” not blessed or less blessed? We should understand true happiness and blessings come from the wisdom, knowledge, and love of God; instead of praying for, we’ll know we are blessed without question and doubt. Continually praising and praying thanks to God. Earthly gain rusts and will be eaten by the moths; and what we entered this world with is what we will exit with. Furthermore for one to think that material gain is to be blessed, has entered the realm of unadulterated ignorance, Proverbs 1:32 provides proof. Mark 8:27-38 Jesus calls Peter "satan" for trying to hinder Him from his mission of suffering and fulfillment of God's will. Then explains distinctly that our soul is worth more than worldly gain. Jesus appeals to us to carry our cross and deny ourselves, additionally Jesus states that the laying down of one's life for a friend is no greater love. Not necessarily death but dedicating your life for the betterment of others. James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. I can flood you with scripture on humility ands service to others but I'm anxious to move on.

If we followed two commandments, we wouldn't have any problems with the others we truly believed in only one God, we wouldn't allow another "god" to come into our lives and take Hs place (idolatry).  If we truly worshiped that one God alone, then we would obey Him and we wouldn't sin against Him- i.e. if I really worshiped God, I wouldn't lie because I'd realize it was a sin against God. I wouldn't steal, I wouldn't covet, I wouldn't murder, I wouldn't lust because all those are sins against God and if I truly worshiped Him, I wouldn't worship something else. - Martin Luther

So you ask why I'm talking to long-suffering. My answer is this, the American Christian fails to realize that luxuries we are afforded. The gospel we preach about abundance, better life now and wealth will hold no weight anywhere else. Especially in countries and to people who have nothing else but their faith. Hearing such would sound like blasphemy to them. This distinct difference should be viewed by all Christians. We take for granted being able to worship freely and carry a bible. We ridicule other Christian denominations, make a mockery of the gospel to appease congregation and praise God not for His sovereignty but more-so for our own selfish gain. We are oblivious to the torment and persecution Christians in the eastern world and third world countries face daily. There needs to be a stop to the manipulation of scripture. Don't be found ignorant of or misinterpreting the scripture. If you have squeamish stomach stop reading now. April 2011 Vietnamese troops raped then killed four Hmong Christian women as their husband and children were beaten and forced to watch. Bishop Su after having served 15 years prior to, at the ripe old age of eighty years old, was hung by his wrist with wire while being beat with a board until it was reduced to splinters. Then he was placed in an enclosed cell in waist high water for days unable to sit or sleep. Lastly Pastor Wanna and his Christian congregation was sent to prison camps after being labeled as Christians for "reeducation programs" and all these events in the name of Jesus. There is a reason why China is on pace to be the country with the largest Christian population. Long-suffereing is the reason, why else would God let them for centuries practice and worship Taoism and Buddhism and so on. These aren't conjured stories thoughts of mine, they are from the book; Persecuted: the Global Assault on Christians. 2 Peter 3:9 KJV The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. As stated in 1 Timothy 2:1, before you start your prayer, say a prayer for others. God's love and blessings to all.

- Chaz Gerard Tyler

Fear Not

In this blog I would like to discuss a topic that is holding too many from reaching their potential that God has already planned for them. I will provide as always scriptures for reference. What causes fear? Too many broken hearts, parents who weren't there, fear of failure, or not being accepted. We all have life events and stories that attribute to our fear. Warranted it may be. We have every reason to fear and live in it. If I say I haven't  lived in fear at one point in my life is a lie if one was ever told. Then I realized there are two types of fear. First, fear of the Lord, not to be confused with being "afraid of." Luke 12:5 tells why we should do so. Secondly there is the fear that if we live in, it will be a hindrance to my growth and development, spiritually, mentally, and physically. Fear is a debilitating disease in my opinion. When fear is the deciding factor in our decision making we tend to be irrational in doing so. I pray that all who deal with fear overcome and are able to live life more abundantly. Never fear trying something new; amateurs built Noah's Ark and professionals built the levees in New Orleans.

Deuteronomy 31:8 And the Lord, he it is that does go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: FEAR NOT, neither be dismayed 

1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Did you know that consistently living in fear and being reluctant to overcome and conquer it will get you a first rate ticket to hell!? Revelation 21:8 You may ask, why would God send me to hell for being fearful. First if God is with you, who is against you. Secondly being fearful was never a characteristic of Jesus whom we are to follow. Lastly God didn't give you a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7).

Fear is lies you tell yourself. I can't, I'm scared to, I don't want to be hurt and the list goes on. Fear is being deceitful to oneself. We all know who's the father of lies and deceit. I rebuke satan in the name of Jesus. You can, you will and you must defeat fear. If you don't try because you are afraid to fail, you have failed already. If you enter a relationship fearful of being hurt, refer to Matthew 7:16. Can a bad tree bear good fruit? If God is calling you to be great and receive your blessing but you are too fearful to listen and act in accordance with direction. Fill your soul with righteousness or chance being overtaken by wickedness. The fault is yours.  Don't miss life and all blessings living in fear. You can't have faith and fear. Just as oil and water don't mix. Faith and fear don't mix either. 

Isaiah 41:10 “Do not FEAR, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

How does one conquer fear. May I disclaim that I am not an expert. But I will share what helped me. With any other problem, acknowledging it is essential. Next, sincerely and earnestly confronting that problem and taking it to God in prayer. May I add that fear breeds doubt, and you can't approach God in prayer with doubt in your heart (James 1:8). When you take it to God in prayer, you must have faith that God will free you of that "spirit of fear." If you want help you have to help yourself. When fear arises you must face it head on and pray your way through it. Fear is a tactic the devil uses to defeat you. Ephesians 6:13-18 is the "armor of God." Whatever you are dealing with, take your bible and find scriptures that pertain to what is afflicting you. Write them down and carry them in your purse or wallet until you memorize them. When that fear comes, use the Word of God to slay it! Say this prayer: Lord I give you the troubles of my heart. I know with you in my corner I can defeat fear. I was once entangled in fear but your Word freed me. I built a wall of fear but your Love knocked it down. I battled fear alone and the Holy Spirit came to my rescue. In the name of Jesus I declare this fear defeated. Amen. God's Blessings and Love to you.

- Chaz Gerard Tyler

Are We Lukewarm Believers

I will inject many scriptures for your reference. I strongly urge you take the time to look at them either during or after you finish reading. As Gandhi stated: I have nothing new to teach you truth and nonviolence are as old as the hills. If I may, the truth being God Almighty and nonviolence in spirit and displaying love that we as believers of Christ send forth; through the grace of God that was given to us (Ephesians 2:8). The premise of this post is to vehemently reassure that God's way is not the best way, because that would imply there are other ways. But furthermore, by professing, accepting and following Christ as our Saviour we are undoubtedly on that narrow path to God's Kingdom. In life we can be indifferent "lukewarm" at work or with friends, but not with God. If you don't lose anything in your new walk with Christ you need to pray and reevaluate your situation (2 Corinthians 13:5). We can't go about life as we did without Christ the same when we choose to walk with Him. As a Christian, in my opinion, we are to be as Paul was 1 Corinthians 2:2 knowing nothing but Christ. As I write this, I dare not to be better than anyone. But I ask that you please add me to your prayer list. I need prayer as much as the next man. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing is a favorite verse of mine, reason being, if you're praying its hard to sin and if you're sinning prayer is absent. Moreover, God is the substance of our morality and the conviction of the Holy Spirit should correct us abruptly when sin comes throughout us if we are sincerely following God.

Revelation 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

"There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, 'Thy will be done,' and those whom God says, 'All right, then have it your way.'" - C.S. Lewis

In this war we must choose a side which we support. Paul gives instruction to those who firmly and sincerely follow God (Ephesians 6:10-18); which is the whole armor of God. We are to embrace those whom actions indicate that they are indifferent, and restore, urge and build their faith (Galatians 6:1). We must take heed and accept our role in this war. The Spirit of God should be so intertwined within us that it should cause distress in our soul to see other Christians lost in the world (Proverbs 24:11-12). As for unbelievers rather than beating them down. We should tell them of the innumerable wonders of God and his son Jesus Christ (Colossians 4:5-6). There is a limit to what they are doing wrong, but there is no obstruction to or limitation on God Almighty and Jesus Christ. As for the war, when Jesus Christ uttered three words, It is finished (John 19:30) satan was defeated! Allow God's will to be done, resist evil (James 4:7); studying and applying the Word of God to our lives.

2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Let's look at the word loyalty. Loyalty defined: faithful adherence to a sovereign, government, leader, cause. Will you pledge loyalty to God? No eye can see, ears can't hear, mouth can profess or the most revered brilliant mind can't imagine! 1 Corinthians 2:9 should undoubtedly win your loyalty. As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. It is not different with God( Isaiah 29:13 & James 1:22-25). Take for instance you are engaged in a dispute and your most esteemed confidante decides to  remain indifferent "lukewarm" in the matter. Or even worse they become a Judas Iscariot! What emotions, feelings, words and sense of betrayal would you feel? Now remember that when the devil comes with his temptations and trails. Remain loyal and be tested so that you are seen blameless in the eyes of God. What better feeling to be seen as worthy by the Almighty God! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

James 4:8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double minded

“When I took up the cross I recognized it's meaning. The cross is something that you bear, and ultimately, that you die on.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.

As I close, Christians are exhorted to bear their cross. Jesus stated in Luke 14:27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. Going to the alter one Sunday and reciting the infamous, Sinners' prayer, isn't going to save your soul. We must crucify our flesh everyday, in faith that God will manifest the Holy Spirit within us; being conscious of the company we keep (1 Corinthians 15:31-33). We may be seen as a radicals, but only for Christ. Because of his teaching Christ was called Beezlebul, the prince of demons (Matthew 12:24). 1 Peter 2:21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example, so that you might follow in his steps. Everything done for the glory of God! Whom is righteous and always on time will exalt you when the time is ripe. Scripture says, if God is with who can be against! Clinging to God always, he promised to make your enemies your footstool. Matthew 24:13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Praying with a unrepentant and sinful heart is no different than having a conversation inside an empty room. One last thought, you can't test the waters with God in regards to your faith. You have to leap in knowing God will sustain you. I pray that you take what is good and plant your seed of faith on good soil as Jesus instructs. Examine yourself, pray and repent sincerely and have the enthusiasm of a new convert to Christianity eager to know God with all humility and faith anew. God's blessings and love to you.


- Chaz Gerard Tyler

Be Strong; Play the Man

1 Kings 2:2 I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man; 3 And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself.

Guilty of it myself. Many men wear the title of man in the physical sense; spiritually and mentally they miss the mark, sadly. The role of the man in American society has been watered down in such a manner that women are willing to settle for a man even though she knows he isn't best for her. Why, because you'd have to take three different men to make a good one. Selfish and vain are two words that shouldn't describe a man, but in my opinion it does. It's one thing to be in touch with our emotions and sympathetic as men but to have our actions and thoughts skewed by them is another. Too many men are gossipers. If I'm lying you can stop reading right now. Our society regardless of class, ethnicity and race need stronger men of faith and character.

2 Samuel 10:12 Be of good courage, and let us play the men for our people, and for the cities of our God: and the Lord do that which seemeth him good.

Women are too independent and don't need a man. Young men don't want the pressure of being a man but want the title of grown man. Young boys aren't taught how to be men. Then there is that little girl who's never had a father to guide and teach her. So she is taken advantage of by young men and boys. She then shuns and develops a scornful disdain for men. Grows to be an independent woman scared to be hurt by men and now we are stuck in perpetual sadness and loneliness. And a society with a shortage of genuine God-fearing men who will love, protect and care for the little girls, young and old women. It’s extremely sad, but true. Men should be protectors not predators. Lovers not lusters. Faithful not faithless. Selfless not selfish. And lastly God-fearing not godless.

I'm not here to condemn all men. But I'll be honest and say that there are far more males than men. I challenge men to be themselves. Don't lose your true identity. Stop imitating others. Reevaluate your role models. Be original, genuine and an individual. William Shakespeare stated." But, O, how bitter a thing it is to look into happiness through another man's eyes!" Sacrificing your happiness for the sake of others perception and opinions of yourself is poison to your character. Life is a more tolerable when you're living yours and not someone else's. Don’t exert all your energy trying to be someone you’re not. Use that energy to make who you are better. Get God in your life. Keep God in your life. Lastly, and more importantly, trust God and let Him guide your path.

“A Christian man is the most free lord of all, and subject to none; a Christian man is the most dutiful servant of all, and subject to everyone.”
- Martin Luther

- Chaz Gerard Tyler

Alan Keyes: Charity

"I believe if the churches were doing their job there shouldbe no such thing as a government welfare system. And I think that people would be inclined to do the job that the Lord means for us to do. If we were not burdened by a tax system that takes the money out of our hands, before we get achance to decide what to do with it. Think about this from a Christian point ofview. What in fact is a true work of charity? As I see it, a true work of charity is actually as Christ portrays it, an overflow of that abundant grace that God has shared with us on account of our faith. Is it not, it is a free flowing thing. It’s not coerced; it’s a simple consequence of the presence of Jesus Christ in our lives. And If that overflowing is properly taking place, nobody needs to beat us over the head. Put a gun to our head; whip us out so we’ll be doing things for the poor and others. That Christ has enjoined uponus. No! It is a step we take because we think with his mind that within us. We are feeling with his heart that is within us. Now when they setup a government system and coerce money out of our pockets through taxation, and then say weare going to spend it on good works. Do you know what they have deprived us of? They have deprived us of the opportunity to display true charity. And believe me, I think that is important. Why, because the works of charity did not haveas their objective to feed and to clothe in the physical sense. They have as their objective to give glory to God so that we can achieve the conversion of hearts to Jesus Christ. And I have to tell you. I am afraid that when we move this into a government sphere, we are in danger of letting the glory go to the government, which should really belong to God."

- Allen Keyes