Responses to Faith (Instagram)

Without faith, it's called religion (something we do to get to God) yet through faith, it's called relationship (something God did to get to us). Religion has taught us to act like the church, which has led to the copy-cat syndrome that births lots of actors, but demonstrates zero power. All the conference going, program having (church folk have a program for everything), declaring, shouting, and sowing is a complete waste of time if there's no time spent studying the Word. In addition to hearing our PASTOR(even Jesus had a Pastor. Please settle in ONE local body to get fed) teaching us the Word, we must be committed to studying so God can speak to us directly! This is where faith exists, through the fellowship of relationship. God wants to direct us, comfort us, and reveal to us His perfect way. Let's settle, be intentional about learning more about this Jesus who loves us. Let's be eager to demonstrate true power and manifesting God's promises rather than demonstrating how "churched" we are. #nextlevel #theresmoretothis #relationship

Pursuing Truth, D.

One Thing (Instagram)

God took our "works" out of the equation because He knew they would not justify us. He took our intellect out of the equation because He knew it would not convince us. He removed the guilt from the equation because He knew it would discourage us. He took the sin out of the equation because He knew it would separate us. The only component He left up to us? Our FREE WILL ...to CHOOSE to BELIEVE. Right believing yields rights living. Romans 10:9
 
Pursuing Truth, D.

Change (Instagram)

I was that person ...until reality slapped me in the face. Funny how you think you're humble until you ask God to show you your true heart. You have to be willing to let YOU go! Pride is deadly and will cause you to think you are more stable than you think, until you fall. It'll cause you to become bitter, wondering why others are pushing forward and you're stuck! "This is how I am!" You don't have to stay that way. "My momma was like this too!" How did that work out for mama? "I wish that teacher would say something to my child!" Did it ever occur to you she has to manage 30+ kids at a time? You have trouble with one! 😳Chill. "I'm broke!" Words can curse you or bless you. Choose wisely. "The white race is always tryna keep the black race down!" Reverse prejudice eh? There are more kind "white people" than not. Racism is a matter of the heart but Jesus overcame the world to give you good success. What other excuses do you have? "All men are dogs!" Not those who are in love with Jesus. Check your heart. You may be attracting what you sincerely like 😳. "The Bible is inaccurate. I need don't Jesus." God doesn't stop loving you nor being who He is just because you don't choose to accept His as Lord. Jesus is still the only way. "I was born like this." Like how? In a sinful state? Sure. We all were. But homosexuality is not the will of God. He loves you, but it's still sin, no way around it. Your feelings don't dictate the truth about who God intended for you to be. Male and female. The perversion of the two is not God's intention. Be willing to change ...the unwillingness keeps you stuck, bitter, and on a downward spiral to nowhere. #wearenotallthat #chill #letitgo

Pursuing Truth, D.

KNOWING the Truth ...Makes Us Free (Instagram)

"Dwan, if Jesus defeated those things that hold people captive, why do they still exist and torment people's lives?" ...Scripture never said those things would cease to exist, but Jesus overcame those things, that satan attempts to continue to entrap us with, to give us another option. Much like a prisoner behind bars ...the warden can bid him/her farewell, but it's up to him/her to walk out of the prison doors ...doesn't mean the prison will cease to exist but when Jesus nailed bondage (of any sorts) to the cross, He paid the penalty ...we are no longer obligated to it. Problem is, most people don't know freedom has been made available so sadly they choose to stay locked up, as though there are no other options. That's why Jesus must be preached, to give the captives hope and another way!! To show them God's unwavering love for them ...Truth is, when we truly know it, we don't have to live helplessly and barely making it. God has an incredible hope-filled life for us to live. It all settles on a choice. I wanted to be free so I dove into His Word to find the Truth to the lies satan had been feeding me for years. Be free today!
 
Pursuing Truth, D.

God Does Not Change (Instagram)

Interestingly enough, when I was set in my ways and dead in sin, this characteristic of God agitated me. I was agitated because I wanted to still do my thing and make life work for me ...when it didn't, I'd refuse God's love because ...well...I thought He was a genie and He was supposed to give me what I wanted. Until I hit bottom ...it was in that moment that I embraced His consistency in love and grace. Today, I'm glad God doesn't change ...I'm glad He doesn't go back on His Word ...I'm glad He doesn't fix His Word to fit my plans and motives. Instead, He is established, settled, and has completed alll things. How we choose to embrace this consistency is up to us. The fact that His Word doesn't change gives me hope, inspires me, and leads me to an expected end! I'm glad He doesn't budge when I have pity parties and temper tantrums ...that's His love towards me ...to challenge towards His best for me ...to stand on His Word as Truth ...that it will work, always. I'm glad that even when I'm slack concerning His Word, He allows me to pick up where I left off. See, His Word will work for us when we choose to commit to it! It's not our committing that causes God to move on our behalf ...it's our committing that enables us to get where and what He's ALREADY made available! Amen!! Happy Monday!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Mourning into Dancing (Instagram)

Nothing missing, nothing broken ...God's Word covers every experience imaginable ....His solutions always end with LIFE!!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Church Musicians and Singers (Instagram)

Our musical gifts don't exempt us from studying God's Word, laying out before Him, and living a life in private that is worthy of what we sing about publicly. The local body is not a curse ...it is a blessing and I wish to stay committed to my local body forever. If God never leads me to sing outside of my church, I will be satisfied. Because my blessing is not in how many gigs I have, it's in my obedience. If/when God exalts you, you'll always be tried by fire, first, to ensure you withstand the trappings of the world ...this is His love towards you. The trap is called Luciferianism ...the desire for fame, power, and recognition. This demonic work, PRIDE, seeks to gain popularity at any cost and must maintain fame to continue to satisfy the flesh. In the end, there's always a fall. The scripture reminded us of it: 2 Timothy 3:2 ...Men will become lovers of themselves. We honor God, not ourselves. May we always aspire to seek His validation and use our gifts to bring Him glory!!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Is Jesus the Pawn for Your Fame (Instagram)

Our musical gifts don't exempt us from studying God's Word, laying out before Him, and living a life in private that is worthy of what we sing about publicly. The local body is not a curse ...it is a blessing and I wish to stay committed to my local body forever. If God never leads me to sing outside of my church, I will be satisfied. Because my blessing is not in how many gigs I have, it's in my obedience. If/when God exalts you, you'll always be tried by fire, first, to ensure you withstand the trappings of the world ...this is His love towards you. The trap is called Luciferianism ...the desire for fame, power, and recognition. This demonic work, PRIDE, seeks to gain popularity at any cost and must maintain fame to continue to satisfy the flesh. In the end, there's always a fall. The scripture reminded us of it: 2 Timothy 3:2 ...Men will become lovers of themselves. We honor God, not ourselves. May we always aspire to seek His validation and use our gifts to bring Him glory!!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Be the Mouthpiece (Instagram)

God can use you to begin a process (planting) ...speak it, unashamed!! It took 4000 years for someone (Isaiah) to speak and initiate the redemptive process: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given" (Isaiah 9:6). It was Mary's words that ignited the manifestation of Isaiah's prophecy: "Be it unto me, according to thy Word" (Luke 1:38). One of the benefits of being in Christ is being lead by God. If He said it, believe, speak it, expect it!! Ignite the flame!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Single Ladies (Instagram)

I wasn't always settled on this as I've had my moments of "when am I going to get married?" Marriage should not consist of two halves coming together ...yet two wholes becoming one. Lonely? Planning a wedding...without a groom? You're not ready for marriage. Being single is not a curse ...God has actually anointed single people to do things married people can't do ...vice versa. When you settle on the fact that God loves you and get lost in living to Him, the man will find you ...biggest mistake women make is trying to find the man. Loneliness can cause you to make poor decisions. You DON'T have to put yourself on the market. You DON'T have to casually date to "put yourself out there". God doesn't experiment and He doesn't guess. When He made the male, He made the female. Trust Him. I look forward to my quiet nights at the house!! When I want company, I make a phone call to friends and family. When you find yourself committed to honoring God, a joker with a nice smile, an agenda, and a lie won't fool you!! Stay focused ...

Pursuing Truth, D.

Pray for Your Pastor (Instagram)

I often pray for Pastors because their assignment is not easy. When they are called by God to lead His people, the attack from satan is greater as his goal is to always take the head out. I pray for their spouses too, as they too are faced with the weight of the assignment. They are often ridiculed, overlooked, and the target of criticism. I pray that God will keep husband/wife as ONE, to never allow the enemy a crack nor an inch to cause division. I pray that she/he will be secure in their assignment, humbled and settled in what God has called them to do. And the children, that they will be secure in their purpose, obedient to their parents, never comfortable in their parent's salvation but will allow Jesus to permeate their hearts. Amen.

Pursuing Truth, D.

Keep Selling Your Peanuts (Instagram)

Disappointment is one of those facets of life that we've all experienced. It hurts when things don't turn out as planned, your gifts go unnoticed, your choosing to do things the right way are overshadowed by what's popular but wrong, or when your efforts don't seem "good enough". When you have a God-led vision, don't lose site of it!! ...someone wants to hear your message, someone wants to invest in your dream, someone is watching you, someone kept going because you didn't quit, someone needs to hear your testimony, someone wants your boldness, someone admires your faith, and someone has found hope because of you! Remain faithful, focused, and fervent!! ...and keep.selling.your.peanuts ...

Pursuing Truth, D.

Music and Evangelism (Instagram)

To the Christian/Gospel artist that wants to "crossover" to mainstream for the sake of "reaching the lost", I challenge you to search the true motives of your heart ...fame is a powerful drug 😳 While I believe Jesus will strategically/creatively send His people to every corner of the world to share His truth and love, He will NEVER disguise the packaging!! Men should know that you belong to Jesus. This "out of the box" talk is an attempt to re-invent the wheel and make the Gospel more appealing to this culture. While I believe God is creative, He doesn't need gimmicks nor does He need our help to remain relevant. John 15:19 ...The world loves its own. If the mainstream music industry accepts you, then Houston we have a problem. Think about it, the Gospel changes lives and causes people to live/think right. Whyyy would "the industry" want you changing the minds of their producers/consumers who love themselves (more than Christ), sex, drugs, and fame?? Even as a "cross-over" artist, the label has complete control over your content ...where's the liberty to "spread the Gospel" in that? Music is a conduit for worship, healing, and victory ...scripture doesn't support the notion that music was used to win someone to Christ. 

Scripture does support the truth that it takes the preaching of the Gospel to save someone ...I Corinthians 1:21. In Acts 2:37, after Peter preached the Gospel, the question was asked, "what must we do?" (to be saved)...3000 people were saved that day. There are NO accounts that people were saved because someone sang. I know it's tempting to believe that we artists should use our gifts to draw people to Jesus. Our gifts should be a testimony of how beautiful Jesus is. The thing that will sting the heart of man into understanding why they need to be saved, is preaching the Gospel (tell someone about Jesus). Music stirs emotions. Giving your life to The Lord should not be an emotional experience but a life-changing experience. Again I ask, is Jesus the pawn for your fame/popularity? Lots of "I think", "I feel", "I believe" ...tell me what God said ...
Pursuing Truth, D.

God Never Misses (Instagram)

God never fails, ever! If we fail in an area (business, friendship, career, marriage, money, etc.), it's not because God missed it ...we did! While He will use our failure to teach us, convict us, humble us, and strengthen our faith, ultimately His way always works. Every successful man and woman in the Bible were able to say, "and God said". How many times do we start business ventures without hearing from God? Then when it fails, we blame God or try something different? Or marry a joker without consulting God? Or blow through money without asking God how to invest it? "God will give you the desires of your heart" is the ONLY part that makes us feel good because it feeds on the innately selfish tendencies of mankind. Read alone, the scripture can be taken out of the context. In context, the scripture before and after paints a clearly picture ...Trust in The Lord and Delight yourself in The Lord precede and Commit your way to The Lord follows. God doesn't just give us what we want because we think we deserve it!! He requires us to Trust Him, Delight in Him, and Commit to Him ...that's His way of getting things to us. When we do that, He will reveal HIS plans for our lives, and our trusting, delighting, and committing will manifest the desires HE's placed inside of us. It's NEVER our way, but His way that remains perfect.

Pursuing Truth, D.

Haters (Instagram)

 Yes, negative people are annoying, yet for every person who isn't in our corner, there are 10 who are ...they deserve our focus. Even unto death, Jesus never focused on what people were doing to Him ...He stayed true to His purpose and kept His eyes on His greatest cheerleader ...His Father! "IF GOD IS FOR YOU, WHO CAN BE AGAINST YOU?? Romans 8:31

Pursuing Truth, D.

Faith (Instagram)

What has God promised you? That's the key. Lack of faith will cause you to keep your eyes on everyone and everything else but the Promise Keeper in Jesus. Uncertainty can drive you to act out of haste just to MAKE things work, instead of acting on faith to ensure things work! Ever wonder why people change career paths 10 times? Or try "new" things to MAKE life work? Date multiple people to find the "right" one? Oftentimes we lose faith because (1) we covet what others have, that wasn't promised to us (2) we aren't sure what God has promised (3) we haven't spent time hearing the studying His Word to stand on what God has promised us. If He promised it, we should settle it in our hearts. If He promised He'd keep your marriage, then settle in your heart that divorce is not an option. If He promised He'd save you and your house, don't be moved by the wayward child. If He promised you a car, don't be comfortable with riding the bus forever. If He promised you total health, don't be discouraged by the Doctor's report. If He promised you'd be an entrepreneur, don't covet someone else's company nor grow weary in doing well. When we believe right, we begin to live right. Faith in God's promises will move you to pray for your rocky marriage, speak life into your wayward child, get a job and start the process of looking for a car, see yourself whole and healed, and begin research on the company He's birthed in you! Abraham's proof of belief? He never wavered, He believed God, and then have glory to Him!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Goodness (Instagram)

I used to think that treating people well, going to church, and getting good grades in school made me a "good" person ...until ...I realized, "no one is good except God alone" Mark 10:18. You see, what we consider good deeds, Isaiah 64:6 describes as filthy rags. Our standard of "good" has been diminished to filthy rags ...wow!! Consider this, what's "good" for a suicide bomber is "bad" to most people ...true story, they believe by sacrificing their lives to kill others they are serving their country and god for "good" ...so how then do we measure good? Arrogance/confidence in our goodness is self-righteousness and has the capacity to cause us to condemn a murderer because he/she is a "bad" person. The reality is, because of sin, ALL of humanity is bad ...rotten to the core!! The ONLY person who makes us good, is Jesus! He's the key! Not our service to our community/church, our gentle smile, nor our good choices ...accepting Jesus as Lord! The notion that I'm "good" without Jesus is a set-up ...a false safety blanket ...in the end, Jesus Christ is the only name given to draw man back to God through salvation. Truth is, I was a MESS without Jesus ...but because of Him, now I've been drafted into His Kingdom as a daughter ...with all Heavenly benefits. Share the love of Jesus to ALL men ...don't discriminate.

Pursuing Truth, D.

Investments (Instagram)

Have you made Jesus Christ Lord? Your title won't matter, how many friends you have on Facebook, how many likes you have on Instagram, how much money you make, how many degrees you have, how much you tithe, how often you sing in the choir, how many houses/boats/cars you own, how good your children are in sports, how much liquor you can consume, how good weed makes you feel, how fly your club outfit looks, how perfect your marriage looks ...NOTHING else will matter! Your passport to everlasting life? Jesus Christ. The idea of everlasting life WITHOUT Christ is a fairy tale to some and life now without Jesus Christ is viewed as optional ...no big deal. Sadly, many Christians, those who have experienced new life in Jesus are so consumed with their lives, they don't have time to share Jesus with someone who is lost and dying. Friends, what are you investing in? Salvation cost Jesus His life, but He considered it well worth His life to freely give you an opportunity to truly live!!! Choose life today!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Be Free (Instagram)

Friend, your life matters to God ...good news is, it's not over! Social media is the curtain that hides insecurities and presents the false picture of reality. It's used to PROVE success, joy, and peace or whatever else we wish to portray. Sadly, we don't have to pretend. To the football player that didn't make it to the NFL, the mother with children out of wedlock, the person whose dream marriage ended in divorce, the person whose spent time in jail, the parents with wayward children, the hometown hero whose still back home doing the same thing they were doing 10 years ago, the girl and boy whose confused about their identity ...your life matters now! If God used Moses, an 80 year old man to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt, He can use you! Time is irrelevant to God! No more pity parties, pretending, bragging about your children to prove you're somebody, and/or choosing to stay where you are! New life begins with Jesus ...the one who gave ALL of us a 2nd chance. This time, allow Jesus to lead ...while you follow ...love y'all!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Intentional Focus (Instagram)

Jesus is the answer ...always. What consumes your time? What has your attention? The answer is the product of where you are today! We are all a product of our decision making. More focused on finding a boo, making money, pleasing people,living vicariously through your children, complaining, blaming the white man, hating the black man, fearful of the economy, trying to come up with a master plan, just stuck, etc.? The answer is in Jesus ...a life filled with joy unheard of! He wants to consume your life so that you intentionally produce good fruit!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

False Motives and Fame (Instagram)

Sadly "To God be the glory" has become a mere buzz-phrase for the confirmation of Jesus being glorified in what we do ...the true confirmation is when we are committed to the assignment regardless of how many people are present or willing to promote us. Let's remain humble and content in the process so that God may prove us, as we are tried by fire!!

Pursuing Truth, D.

We Will Serve the Lord (Instagram)

Draw a line in the sand, whose side are you on? "But if serving The Lord is undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves who you will serve"....Choose life!! Deuteronomy 30:19 ...

Pursuing Truth, D.

Thorn in our Flesh (Instagram)

"My GRACE is sufficient (all you need); my strength (power) works best (is most effective) in weakness. So now I am glad to boast in my weakness so that the power of Christ can work through me. Therefore I take pleasure in my weakness, hardships, persecutions, and troubles...for when I am WEAK then am I STRONG" ...II Corinthians 12:9-10. The ultimate exchange ...THIS is why we always win!! Grace gives us power over sin. Not that we'll never be tempted, become weak or perhaps fall, but His grace enables us to depend on his strength as a way of escape!! Not our self-efforts, discipline, strong mind, but His strength!! Thank God for Jesus, that we don't have to be enslaved to sin! Freedom!! #Godbenefits #TheWord #Study #Takethetime #Jesusistheanswer

Pursuing Truth, D.

The Truth Behind the Music (Instagram)

This is one of the most difficult messages to teach believers because when their music collection is challenged then there's resistance ..."my music isn't bad" is usually the sentiment. I've been called weird, deep, and non-relevant because of my stance. Yet as confirmed in the scripture, satan is subtle. He knows most believers wouldn't dare listen to music about violence, drugs, sexing, or drinking. But if he inspired a funky beat, used a pretty girl, and used metaphors as lyrics then the song would bypass normal "Christian radar" undetected. Truth is, music is always created through the supernatural ...what we hear from mortal beings (humans) is the duplicated form. I'm a musician and I own a studio. What most musicians won't tell you (because they want the spotlight) is there is a supernatural encounter that takes place before music is produced. In other words, whether it's the spirit of satan or the Spirit of God, the human is merely the host for reproduction.

So what you hear as a consumer is much deeper than what the ear detects!! The message is in the music!! Whether your conscious picks up on it or not, you're being fed something and what that something is depends on the spirit of the artist. Here's how it works and this is why believers fight it ..."but it's just music, I just listen to the beat, it's a fun song, etc." ...sadly, satan has worked his craft to perfection. This goes for Christian/Gospel music as well ...artists hiding behind Jesus only to promote their agendas for fame....just like satan ...they want the spotlight. When churches begin playing music from artists who don't honor Jesus as Lord, that's the cue that's satan has worked his plan. What's in your music collection?

Do your research, the music industry is dark ...that's not to assume that those who God has placed in it to be a light have been compromised ...that is to say, many are being deceived ...don't let anyone convince you otherwise. Many of these artists aren't who you think they are ...I pray you'll simply ask God to reveal the truth behind your music, to be open to this revelation, and be willing to let it go for the sake of honoring Jesus in allll things.

Pursuing Truth, D.

The Promises of God (Instagram)

Friend, don't lose heart ...God always wins!! While these are critical times, there's no need to panic and lose hope. Nothing surprises God ...Jesus was sent as the solution to ALL things!! Our faith in Him gives us peace ...Ebola? "No evil will conquer you, neither shall any plague come near your home" ...Psalm 91:10. Disobedient children and fatherless homes? "The preaching will return the hearts of the children to the fathers and the hearts of the fathers to their children" Malachi 4:6. Failing economy? "My God shall supply all my need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" ...Philippians 4:19. Our children are NOT hopeless because God has the power to restore and capture their hearts!! Our fathers are NOT helpless ...because God can and will restore their authority. IS THERE ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR GOD????

Pursuing Truth, D.

Our Children Shall Live! (Instagram)

Pursuing Truth, D.

Comfortable Christian (Instagram)

OMG!! This used to be me!!! ...I was complacent and comfortable until I realized this life isn't about ME but about investing in others. I realized God had greater on the inside of me with potential to change the world!! Interestingly enough, we don't mind being challenged in sports, marriage, friendships, and on our jobs. But when it comes to Christian development, we believers become fearful when challenging our brothers and sisters. This week, I challenge YOU to be more and please do the same for me! As a trainer, I challenge my athletes and clients physically and mentally ...pushing them to always give their BEST and to FINISH! God expects more of us!! Our Mondays shouldn't be dreaded ...but seen as another opportunity to grow and get better! Does someone know Jesus because of the life you live? Are you living towards being ALL that God created you to be? Don't leave this earth filled with "stuff" inside of you! That's the problem with graveyards ...the richest places on earth!!...filled with people full of gifts they never fulfilled! Today, is a new day!!...

Pursuing Truth, D.

New Creature (Instagram)

Jesus Christ has made me new ...I have a new nature so my identity is not one of a sinner (one who is not redeemed) ...but by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord, I have taken on the identity of my Savior. Furthermore, now, there needs to be a demonstration of this new life: Joy is times of sorrow, peace in times of lack, a sincere smile, and a heart to serve ...versus cussing, complaining, living in fear, and/or making excuses. Time out for the OLD THINGS and making excuses for sin ...as a believer it should be uncomfortable to sin. Do we miss it at times? sure! But we don't practice sin ...we learn to overcome sin as we grow in the Word of God. Christians should be demonstrating power!! ...changing the negative culture of this generation on our jobs, in the schools, etc. Clubbing, being/speaking reckless doesn't demonstrate the power of God in your life ...yet the evidence of CHANGE draws people to your God. There must be a difference between the profane and the holy. Believers should never apologize for their past nor use it as an excuse not to share the truth. We are ambassadors of Christ, mandated to share the love of Jesus and His redemptive work on the cross. There is a standard to this ...and it's the perfected holiness of Jesus!! If we present Jesus and allow the Word of God to teach us how to be like Him, the proof will be in our family, neighbor, co-worker, etc. wanting to know more about this incredible life!! Christianity is set-apart ...what are you demonstrating?

Pursuing Truth, D.

Perfect God for Imperfect (Instagram)

When God sees me, He sees His son Jesus!!! I am no longer a sinner ...I am The Righteousness of God!! II Corinthians 5:17 ....Godbenefits

Pursuing Truth, D.

People Bondage (Instagram)

Dad taught me early ...the old saying, "what people think about you is none of your business" is true. If you think rocking pink boots with orange sweats and a button down is fly, wear it!! That doesn't match and you may not get hired but that's your decision ...It's your style, so rock it!! lol!! 😄There's a difference between desiring to make people, who matter, proud of you and wanting/needing their affirmations ...as well, sometimes being the peace maker and talking things through with someone who incorrectly perceived what you did or said is necessary. I believe those relationships and conflicts are vital for human development ...and even in that, ultimately our validation has to come from God! But when God has called you to do something and be who He created you to be, worrying about how you look or sound to someone who didn't die for you is bondage ...don't go broke trying to impress and maintain a reputation and certainly don't lose who you are to gain someone's validation. We can't stop people from talking so we might as well live life FREE of other's opinions. I'm actually surprised when I hear someone has an issue with me or doesn't like me, because that's never my focus ...I'm not aware of what others think of me ...I have an idea perhaps, but I don't care. Haters??? I want to meet them!! ...and demonstrate the love of Jesus, not PROVE THEM WRONG or show them how "I made it". I live to honor God. #truestory #befree

Pursuing Truth, D.

You are Loved (Instagram)

Jesus loves you ...He's passionate and concerned about you ...regardless of your past and/or current condition ...if.you.only.knew ..."where do I start?" ...start with accepting His love for you ..."I'm too far gone" ...He wants to restore you ...Is.there.anything.too.hard.for.God??...He's willing to meet you right where you are ...for He cares for you. I love that God is patient, kind, and gentle towards the matters of our hearts ...always willing to prove His love for us ...
 
Pursuing Truth, D.

Speak to Produce (Instagram)

Ladies and Gentlemen, you'll recognize a snake when the two don't add up ...you must have both ...production and speaking from their heart. He/she may be able to show you what you want to see but that "thing" isn't truly in their heart. Example...He/she goes to church but Jesus isn't the core of their conversation. Or he/she shows you money but doesn't speak about a legit job. Or he/she can talk a good game but ain producing a thang!!!! What's in their heart will come out ...hang around then long enough, and they won't stop talking about it. Their character will always produce the corresponding fruit!! God has given us His Word to help us with relationships (of any kind) ..."Just as you can identify a tree by it's fruit, so you can identify people by their actions" ...Matthew 7:20..."A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart"...Luke 6:45.
 
Pursuing Truth, D.

Role Model (Instagram)

...or the millionaire that doesn't know you nor your child??? There's nothing wrong with children wanting to aspire to be like great leaders but their first model of leadership should begin in the home. When parents fail to provide sound structure, leadership, and support, children will naturally divert their attention to what's popular. Political, sports, and Hollywood superstars don't feed your children, take them to school, help them with homework, travel to tournaments, dry runny noses, nor wipe tears away ...you do!! They should aspire to follow you as you follow Christ! So instead of investing in those superstars' children's college tuition, invest in your children so they model after what's right. Don't be so quick to send them to their grandparents or sleepover to a neighbor's house just because you're tired of them. And please stop beating yourself up because of your past and inadequacies ...be encouraged to start today fresh, choose fellowship with Christ, and allow Him to show you how to be who He created them to be!! Love y'all...

Pursuing Truth, D.

Jesus is my everything! (Instagram)

The name above ALL names ...Jesus!!! has moved from being "a part" of my life to being my life!! I use to make Him "a part" of my day or schedule as if I was doing Him a favor ...however, my Pastor often says, "In these days, you're going to need Jesus"...a day will come when our "investments" will reveal their true worth!! If Jesus isn't the center of it, in the end, it won't matter. All the money, accolades, turn-ups, people pleasing, palm reading, star gazing, and vain worship to false gods won't have the power to withstand the demise of this world. But because I'm in Christ, I'm SURE to win, always ...living void of fear because I know who holds my future!!




Pursuing Truth, D.

Stay In a Child's Place (Instagram)

Thesssseeee were the words of warning from ANY adult to me when I stepped out of my lane as a child!! The next offense was a "rod"!! Since when do children run things???!!! Videos of children cursing adults, fighting their parents, and adults getting their cues from this generation is not funny. What ever happened to parents leading their children to doing what's right? or teaching young kids how to respect adults? Today, it's admirable for a parent to curse their child's teacher out or encourage bad behavior. Time out for the non-sense! Listennnnnn, I've had children bow up at me but at 5'4, they learn QUICKLY, that "this ain what they want!" ...it doesn't take them long to return to a child's place ...I tell them to "go in peace" LOL!! God has given we adults the authority to lead the way, not follow their lead. I work at a school ...and children don't tell me what to do, ever!! They don't intimidate me, they don't manipulate me, and they don't instruct me. I have the responsibility as the adult to lead the way, establish rules, and enforce fair discipline ...allll while loving on EACH one with unique care. I establish order, because I LOVE THEM!! 

Parents and anyone who works with children and teens ...I'm praying for you today!! That God will give parents the supernatural strength to ...SPANK your children in love (not frustration) when they need correction and to love on and encourage them to righteousness. Youth workers, I pray that God will give you wisdom on how to conduct your leadership. Take your rightful place back!! If your children are causing you stress in your home and in the classroom, it's time to re-establish order!! Don't ever allow children to disturb your peace, ever. When we train them up God's way, we teach them authority, order, and proper conduct! ...Happy Monday!!


Pursuing Truth, D.

Jesus has done it!! (Instagram)

This is the message of hope ...God's grace is NOT based on your performance but operates by what you believe!! When you believe right, you'll live right!!

Friends, our self-efforts to impress God or people have already been take care of. Sin, is no longer the problem...the problem is what we choose to (or not to) believe. Our response to the life that God intends for us to have should be, "I believe and thank you". There's nothing that we can ever do to deserve Heaven, the finer things in life, and ultimately the best God has for us. God freely gives to those who will receive. When we surrender our lives, repent (this is not mere remorse but a decision to turn away from self and sin), and accept Jesus into our lives, we're saying "I believe and thank you!"

I, Dwan Riggins, haven't been afforded the Blessing of The Lord because I get everything right ...I mess up!!..But I've learned how to believe right...and the longer I continue in God's Truth, unashamed and un-bothered by people's opinion, and trust Him with my life, those "mess-ups" will turn into triumphs! Let's live this good life, completely!"
Pursuing Truth, D.

The Blessing of The Lord (Instagram)

The Blessing of the Lord always brings peace, contentment, causes you to live right, and proves the power fo God by exceeding your self-efforts/natural ability. If the riches came from stealing, cheating, clubbing, working to exhaustion...causes you to miss church (because you're working 5 jobs), neglect your family, adds stress, exhorts pride, promotes self, and/or leads to poor decisions, then it's not eh Blessing of The Lord. His Blessing cause no sorrow.

Pursuing Truth, D.

Dating ...(Instagram)

Dating, I'm always fascinated with this word as it has become the buzz word for teenagers and/or older singles who are looking to mingle ;) I'll share my personal journey later but here's what I believe: (1) I believe that God has already determined our spouses (yes, He's that specific) so we don't have to guess, but we do have the power to choose ...(2) Finding God's BEST way of doing things saves time, heartache, and energy. When we've heard ONE way for so long it can falsely pose as the truth. When the truth comes along, it's often rejected as a lie.

You see, dating has been one of those things that society has encouraged for years, to the point where parents encourage it as early as 12 years old. But what does God say? I submit I Corinthians &:32, 24. The scriptures describes the responsibilities of single people ...their focus should be on pleasing the Lord. Here's what happens when we expose our children to dating: we teach them early on how to rely on their flesh. Now, I'm not condemning crushing to hell...please hear the heart of this: what I am saying is, we are encouraging our children to partake in an overly-sexualized culture. Harmless? They may never have sex, but when they break up, their intimate moments (holding hands, kissing, etc.) leads to soul ties that they can not emotionally handle. On to the next...and the cycle continues. They end up attached, distracted, and heart broken..fighting to find their identity in another girl or boy, rather than Jesus.

Here's what I suggest: encouraged friendship, always. The relationships your children should have with their peers should remain as a brother or sister ...thereby, they can learn how to resist temptation and encourage intimate relationship with Jesus rather than each other. Why have adult-like titles for someone who may or may not be your spouse? Ever heard of the dating game? That's what it ends up being, when we guess or "try the market". God's message to us? Trust Him in ALL things. I encourage teens to stay focused on the things of the Lord and enjoy life as a single youthful person! Don't grow up too fast. If you're crushing, keep it classy and remain friends. 

Pursuing Truth, D.

God is Not ...(Instagram)

Society honors mortal men as God and honors God as mortal men...But let's be clear, The God of Genesis 1:1 is like no other!! He was there before the beginning and will be there after it ends ...too bib to conceptualize and too wise to fully comprehend. For those who believe on His son Jesus, God is not a genie ...we want it, we wish it, and God come through. Nor is He the homie, who we treat like a common friend. He is no our errand boy ..we make decisions and tell God to bless it. Or a temporary solution, we only talked to Him when we're in trouble. Contrary to popular believe, He's no mythical...He's real and man's opinion of Him doesn't change His sovereignty.

Friends, God wants relationship with us and He is worthy of full honor, always, and forever!! He should be worshiped as the King of all kings, not as a pop star or side piece. When we have a true revelation of God and His love for us, we'll begin to see the manifestation of His power demonstrated in our lives. Let's be sure to uphold the standard of honor He deserves.

Pursuing Truth, D.

Faith vs Works (Instagram)

Without faith (not works), it's impossible to please God. Our relationship with Jesus should never be founded in what we must do for Him. The scriptures validate this. What God wants to reveal is, Jesus is the key!! When we fail, we naturally become sin-conscious which leads to pride (self-centered). We begin thinking of all of the ways we disappointed God and how we have failed Him. In reality, those who are born-again, God doesn't look at us, but at Jesus!

Does this give us the right to sin? No. Here's what sin does ...it breeds condemnation, caused us to hide from God, thus prevents us from abiding (accepting) in God's love. Sin also has natural consequences, that destroys relationships and lives. So the aim shouldn't be to avoid sin because we don't want to fail God, but to resist temptation because we ant to stay connected (conscious) to His love. This is what Jesus meant in John 15:10 .."If you continue to obey my instructions, you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed my Father's instructions and live on it in His love".

You see, obeying His commandments doesn't prove our love to God, as we are incapable of keeping the book of the law in our own strength. Jesus fulfilled the law and it's only by grace and the power of God's Spirit that enables us to live the Christian life.

Pride can cause us to think we've accomplished something great in our own will when we avoid temptation. But what God wants us to know, "As long as you stay connected to me and follow my instructions, my love enables you to live the holy life." Our only requirement? Is to believe!!! Not prove to God, but believe on Jesus! This the grace that enables us to overcome ins. As the old people used say, "Thank God for Jesus!"

Pursuing Truth, D.

The Great Exchange (Instagram)

The great exchange ...a man who knew no sin chose to take our place, pay the penalty for sin, and present to us His life of righteousness...it's up to us to receive. Wow! There's no greater love! You see, our good works don't justify us, our wealth doesn't validate us, our intellect doesn't esteem us, and our own way doesn't deliver us. We need a Savior to restore us ...

Pursuing Truth, D.

Relevancy (Instagram)

Pop-culture is not the key to relevancy ...hearing from God is the key! If the lost have to filter through the profane to get to your message, then it weakens the potential for the power of God's Word to do what it needs to do!

Why do Christians endorse profane rappers and sexually explicit pop-artists? Because there's so much energy spent brainstorming flesh-led ideas, trying to fit in, capture an audience, be cook, liked and up-to-date that we reach at what's "popular" in attempts to remain "relevant".

My grandparents had very little secular education and no experience with pop-culture yet inspired several generations of children to grow up loving Jesus! Jesus was able to related to all walks of life because He was anointed to do so! That's what made Him powerful and engaging! Just because there's a crowd doesn't mean something is happening. We should always seek to inspire fruit that remains.

 Pursuing Truth, D.

Who Do They See? (Instagram)

When the world sees you, your Facebook page, Twitter feed, and Instagram page ..do they see Jesus??!! Extreme? Super-deep? Assertive? Yes, yes, and yes!! ...all characteristics of Jesus ..who was passionate about the liberty of the people and the sate of the world. I'm confident in this: people are watching you! They may never double tap but God's Words are powerful enough to permeate social media and make them free!!...never be afraid of men and their faces ..seeking affirmations and likes. Your life has the capacity to impact one life ..and that one life has the capacity to impact an entire generation!! Let's gooo!! #iliveforthis #nomoreselfpromotion #wehaveworktodo

Pursuing Truth, D.

Authority protects (Instagram)

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Authority is designed to protect us. If I get pulled over for not wearing my seat belt and receive a ticket, will my argument, "I think we should have the right to choose seat belts or not" hold up in the court of law? Or what if I choose to jump off of a cliff because I don't agree with the law of gravity? Will I begin to fly? Likely not. Why? Because the law has already been established ...it's the final authority!

Likewise, opinions about basic Biblical principles that have already been established by God (the only god who takes full responsibility for creating the Heavens and the Earth ..Genesis 1:1). Our personal pinions about matters of sex, marriage, homosexuality, politics, raising children, etc. really hold no value in the grand scheme of things. While they make for great conversations (and arguments) in the end, what's the Final authority? ..what's right?

I submit, the Bible. Its book of rules, laws, instructions or whatever we call them are designed to protect us. He loves us enough to design sex within the context of marriage between male and female to protect us from soul ties, STD's, children out of wedlock, abortions, etc. Homosexuality/Lesbianism? ..God opposes because He created male and female and loves us enough to protect us from the dangers of this perverted relationship. Money ...He loves us enough to warn us that the love of it is the root of all evil. These are just a few examples and while God loves us, He can't go against His Word. So, the Bible isn't a book of cant dos ...it's a book of love, instruction, and protection to show God's BEST way for living. "we all make mistakes" ..yes!! ...I do! And I'm thankful for God's grace and mercy. But we should be on a daily conquest to find out God's BEST way of doing things.

Just as it is foolish for me to deny a natural law that protects me, so is it foolish to deny God's Truth. I love yall and God cares. Please don't allow society to trap you into the belief that "it's my life, I can do what I want". While you are free to do what you want, you don't determine the consequences. Set before you are life or death ...choose LIFE because God loves you just that much!

Pursuing Truth, D.

Unashamed Gospel (Instagram)

Jesus is the hope and answer for you today! ...whatever it is, He loves you and cares about you!! I can offer you the most incredible gift from a jewelry store but it's up to you to accept it ...likewise, God has offered His son Jesus who cares about you so much that He died for every mistake, failure, sickness, and sin ..to give you an opportunity to live an incredible life of fullness of joy, peace, and purpose ...you no longer have to figure life out ..will you receive Him as Lord today??
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Truth is, people are hurting and want answers. Even when they seem to have life figure out, money is right, etc. ...something is still missing. We can't be afraid nor ashamed to share Jesus in His purity, truth unaltered. Ambassadors of the United States represent the government of the USA. When asked their opinions, their response? "My government says..." As ambassadors of Christ, when asked opinions about basic Biblical principles, core issues of life, etc. our response? "The Bible says.." Tapping around just to appease the listener, to seem "normal" or cool, and not to offend someone is fear driven and people pleasing. Being preachy, too churchy, or deep shouldn't be our concern. Jesus ins the (only) way, truth, and LIFE and if we love someone, we'll give them the gift of life. Jesus changed my life and my testimony will never be altered to fit my surrounding. I'm not ashamed of the Gospel because I understand the power it has to bring salvation.

"People shouldn't look at me, they should look at Jesus" is a cop out! When they see you, they should see Jesus operation through you. My past nor my shortcoming don't disqualify me from the Gospel. God's grace qualifies every believer to speak His love in power and authority. Jesus' disciples shared the uncompromising Gospel even when their lives were on the line. The same is taking place oversees today! Yet we have the opportunity to share Jesus in complete freedom and we downplay Him? make Him an undertone because we ant to appeal to the masses? Jesus is still Lord and deserves to be the center of attention ...#unashamed #unaltered #unmoved #notcountingfollowers #makingdisciples


Pursuing Truth, D.

Youth Leaders ...(Instragram)

YOUTH LEADERS, pleassseeee, I beg of you ...be careful in using the world to make your message relevant. The very worlds that we should be trying to rescue our youth from is the same world that we can expose them to!!

Mixing the holy with the profane voids God's Word and makes it of no effect. We don't need Beyonce, Young Thug, nor Smurda (I think that's his name) to make our message powerful, relevant, and influential ...that's not creativity ...that's leaning on our own understanding.

We should be trying to win these artists to Jesus ...not enabling them nor endorsing them. When we use the profane (in any form), we also welcome the spirit behind it.

If you ask the kids, they'll tell, they want truth!! ...and they want it in it's purest form! ...Because they know the only thing that has the power to help them deal with divorce, molestation, insecurity, etc. is something that is all.the.way.real...not something bottled up in profane lyrics and sayings. That method may lead to fruit, but not fruit that remains!!!

With the vile and evil things they are exposed to on a daily basis, we can't afford to expose them any long. God has called us to be different, set apart and its our responsibility to pull them out of the darkness and expose them to the light!!

Since when do we get our cues from an evil, God-rejecting world? Ask God for His words of hope to feed our kids ...not what you think will get their attention. While its our responsibility to help them guard their hearts, wallow Jesus to CAPTURE THEIR HEARTS!!

When an 8 year old freely walks up to give his life The Lord, or is eager to go to Bible Study, I know THE WORD WORKS. WE DON"T NEED TO REVAMP THE GOSPEL!! #stayintheBible #adultshavetobemoreresposnbile #dontexposethemtotheprofane #exposethemtopurefiathinJesus

Pursuing Truth, D.

Lack of Knowledge (Instagram)

God knew that His Word would be the foundation to life ...and when it's not present in our lives, destruction is the end result: divorce, broken marriages/homes, senseless deaths, famine, even catastrophic weather (yest eh weather) ...because the integrity of the The Word and our existence are held together by God's Word. it's just that powerful!

So when our homes are void of God's Word, destruction is imminent. Schools void of God, destruction. Marriages, destruction. Politics, destruction.

This truth is undeniable yet is rejected because we we have been tricked into believing we don't need God; a lie that causes us to be arrogant in our own abilities and intellect.

But today, I declare God' glory will be revealed in our lives, that we'll look to Him in all things and allow Him to be the final authority in our lives: that we don't be mere hearers but doers of His Word; that we won't simply believe in God but we'll study His Word and DO everything He's instructed us to do.

Jesus is Lord and I'm not ashamed of the Gospel, for it's the POWER of God unto salvation, to everyone who believes ...

Romans 1:16 ...oooo, God is just that good!!!


Pursuing Truth, D.

Youth: Capturing the Heart (Instagram)

His Word works and endures throughout all generations, always and forever ...I Peter 1:25, Isaiah 40:8

Pursuing Truth, D.

Fear vs Faith (Instagram)

Ever wonder why the media is always negative? Its purpose is to keep you in fear which leads to unbelief, worry, doubt, unnecessary spending ("what if" insurance), oppression, and depression.

If you read (watch, listen) to it long enough you'll begin believing the lies and garbage they sell...causing you to be afraid to raise you children in this evil world, afraid of losing your job, afraid of people (pleasing), and hesitant to believe the Bible.

What are you fearful of today? Whatever it is, know that God doesn't want you fearful, but living in power, love, and stable in your mind (I Timothy 1:7).

He loves you and it's His LOVE (faith-confidence in God) that drives out FEAR!! #Jesusfirst

Pursuing Truth, D.

HONOR (Instagram)

HONOR: to regard with high respect; esteem in humility.

Honor opens the door for good success!! Adults are subject to honoring too. Honor God, PARENTS (being "grown" does not exempt us from this principle), supervisors, etc.

Honor does not make us weak; it empowers us. Struggling in life? Things not working out? Check who you are choosing to disHONOR...

Pursuing Truth, D.