A Time to Sow

"To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1, KJV)."
Inspirational Bible Verses: Ecclesiastes 3:1-9

God knows when it is in our best interest to sow or reap. At this point I know I am in the stages of sowing seeds. Sowing is a difficult, dirty, yet necessary time in our lives. Throughout the process of sowing, we get to the core of our shortcomings in Christ. If we are lacking in faith, this time allows us to plant seeds of belief and remove thorns of doubt. Our spirits may be low in unconditional love for our fellowman, therefore we should plant seeds of tolerance and remove weeds of discontent. In a garden over run with pride and self worship, seeds of meekness must be sown. Although reaping gives us rewards of our harvest, it is sowing that builds; faith, love, and meekness. Moreover, sowing strengthens our relationship with God and encourages us to cling closer to Christ. Thankfully God uses this time to mold us into spiritually stronger Christians. So when you find yourself in a spiritually demanding episode of  life, say to yourself, "Thank you God for a time to sow."

AES Horror Stories Part 2

Biblical Inspirational Verses: "Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not (Galatians 6:9, KJV)."

     AES has struck again with unethical practices.In a previous post I mentioned I co-signed a student loan that was given an increase in monthly payments by AES despite being in good standing with that company. Now I would like to share the story about the horrible treatment I've received from a second loan with AES that was a part of their Private Loan Rehabilitation Program. In July 2011 my daughter defaulted on her private student loan, for which I co-singed. However in September AES assigned us to the Loan Rehabilitation Program. The program was designed to put people who have defaulted on their private loans a chance to return to good standing. The terms of the program were clear: pay $1200 down payment, $150 month for 10 months. After ten months of on-time payments we would return to our previous payment agreement and receive a Loan Rehabilitation Closure Statement. In addition our credit report would show the monthly payments. We did everything we were suppose to do; we paid the deposit, made on time monthly payments from 9/201-2/12. However without notice AES pulled us out of the program on 3/21/12 and sent the account to Weldman, Weiberg, & Reis, an attorney/collection agency in Ohio. Again, we did everything we met all terms of the agreement but we were still sent to collections. When we called AES/NCT we were told, "We decided we wanted to collect all the money." They acknowledged the payments were made on time and we kept our end of the agreement. Despite all of this we are now in collections and are expected to pay $33,000 in one shot. The attorneys even said they could; garnish our wages, place a lien on our bank accounts and home, and sue us for the full amount. We are working diligently to resolve this issue. All we want is to continue with the payments of the Loan Rehabilitation program.
     Throughout all of this I have become a little despondent. I can see if we were trying to avoid paying our loan, it would make sense if we were sued. However we followed all of the terms of the agreement and yet we are in worse circumstances than if we never paid. How can a company alter the agreement of their program without warning? As I pray for a solution I keep this scripture in mind, " What shall we then say to these things?If God is for us who can be against us(Romans 8:31,KJV)?"

WANTED:American Education Services(AES) Student Loan Horror Stories

 
I have the misfortune of being a victim of AES student loan services. My story begins in 2004-2005 school years. I co-signed for my daughter's student loans to a private college. The master promissory note gave great terms-4.3% $230/month fixed for the life of the combined loans. At some point AES acquired the loans and we have been bombarded with outrageous rate increases for no apparent reason. In approximately February of 2011 the loans  were split into two separate loans, each $131/month but still remained with AES. We have paid on both loans, and resolved any issues prior to this incident. Without warning in December of 2011 my daughter received a notice stating her monthly payment will increase to $231/month in March of this year. In addition the balance would increase from 32,000 to 44,000 approximately $12,000 added to interest! This makes the total amount of both loans from the original borrowed $40,000 to approximately $76,000!! They have also threatened to add another $5,000 to the total balance with an additional $100 which would increase the total monthly payment to $350/month! When we pressed AES for an explanation to this ridiculous increase we were told, via phone and email, "...the terms of the original contract have been changed..." What does that mean?! Who gave the authority to add $12,000 to the total sum?! At no time did either of us give permission to increase a loan. This loan has been in good standing and was not delinquent, so how can they do this to us?!


I truly believe we are not the only victims of AES unscrupulous practices. PLEASE POST IN THE COMMENTS SECTION YOUR EXPERIENCES WITH AES, OR OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS WHICH PREY ON UNSUSPECTING STUDENTS AND CO-SIGNERS.

I would like to gather information and possibly post further blogs on this company, as well as other student loan companies, with unethical practices.

Thanks

"The Voice" Silenced-Whitney Houston Dead at 48

 “Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” - John 16:22


     Whitney Houston, "The Voice", passed away Saturday February 11, 2012  in a Beverly Hills Hotel despite efforts to be revived by emergency services. The Voice that soothed aching souls in the 80's and 90's with her amazing love songs;"All the Man I Need", "The Greatest Love of All", and of course her timeless rendition, "I Will Always Love You," has left this earth. There has been, nor I fear will there ever be, a talent so captivating as to enrapture us all with a single note.

     Throughout the late 90's and early 2000's, Ms. Houston was plagued with admitted drug abuse issues. Her infamous Diane Sawyer 20/20 interview, with her then husband Bobby Brown, showed a less than graceful diva entangled with drugs and excess. Yet we all pulled for her recovery, and return to star status with hope and compassion.

     Last night I thought I would find verses to help fans deal with the loss of such and icon. No matter the circumstances of her death, she was a child of God. We should not wallow in the emptiness of what may have become of her under different circumstances. Rather, we should continue to enjoy the voice and unmistakable talent she donated to the world every time she opened her mouth to sing.


1.)I am feeble and utterly crushed; I groan in anguish of heart. All my longings lie open before you, O Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you. I wait for you, O LORD; you will answer, O Lord my God. - Psalm 38:8-9,15
2.)So my spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.
3.)Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. - Psalm 143:4, 6-8
4.)The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. - Psalm 34:18
5.)Jesus said, “Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” - John 16:22

6.)I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. - Jeremiah 31:13






     My prayers and condolences are extended to; her family, friends, and of course, the millions of fans around the world. God Bless

     

Don Cornelius Dead From Apparent Suicide: Sources Cite Depression as Cause

 

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.(Philippians 4: 6,7 KJV)


      I was shocked and saddened to hear about the apparent suicide of  Don Cornelius, creator of "Soul Train". As with most people across the country, my Saturday mornings were spent in front of the television watching the iconic show. Soul train was not just another show  about black people dancing to the latest music; rather it was a forum for African American entertainment. Moreover, artists who  were not considered mainstream for American Bandstand, could exhibit their unique skills for a neglected audience.
     According to the Chicago Sun Times many acquaintances of Mr. Cornelius cite depression, and possible bipolar disorder, as the cause of  his apparent suicide. Former friends state he was depressed due to, "constant pain and financial worries." Yet other friends state he often dealt with depression recently due to lack of respect from the music industry. "He felt badly snubbed by music executives who did not attend a  recent publicity party," stated another source.

Depression a Weapon of the Enemy
     Depression is a fiery dart the enemy uses to keep us away from God's true calling for our lives. Webster's Dictionary defines depression as, "Severe despondency and dejection(lowliness of spirit), accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy." I'd like to add depression causes us to wallow in feelings of; helplessness, shame, and unworthiness. Fortunately Christians have protection against depression in God's word.
Scriptures for Hope, Peace, and Patience


Hope

• Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.(Psalms 55:2)
• May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit(Romans 15:13)
• Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.(1Peter 5:7)

Peace

• Nevertheless God, that comforts, those that are depressed, comforted us by the coming of Titus; (7) And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.(2 Corinthians 7:6,7)
• Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.(Philippians 4:6,7)
• Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.(Mark 4:37-39)

Patience

• But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.(Isiah 4:31)
• Everything is possible for him who believes.(Mark 9:23)
• Dear Friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.(1Peter 4:12)

Put on the Whole Armor of God


     God forewarns us in his word that we will have problems in this life. Our Christian walk will not always be shouts of "Hallelujah". We will go through storms and trials regardless of our attempts to walk on the straight and narrow. Thankfully our heavenly father has given us the whole armor in his word. Our best ally against the enemies strongholds is God's word.





10Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

 11Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

 12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

 13Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

 14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

 15And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

 16Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

 17And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

 18Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;(Ephesians 6:10-18)

God Bless

Should Christians Go To Church?

Inspirational Bible Verses: Psalms 122:1, Romans 8:35-3

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. — Psalm 122:1

Yes, Christians should attend the house of God for worship and spiritual support. Throughout our daily lives we come upon instances which erode our belief in Christian values. Whether we are tested with private temptations; lust, anger, pride, etc; or we are under attack for holding to biblical principles, the house of God is our refuge.God"s holy temple is a place for spiritual restoration. By meeting with other Christians we can; express our concerns about secular events, restore our faith, and grown in the Lord, in a supportive and spirit filled environment.

       "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore." — Psalm 133:1-3

But what about church scandals?

There have been several church scandals which have led to Christians leaving houses of worship in large numbers. Many church leaders have been exposed committing the same sins they preach against during Sunday services. For example Bishop Eddie Long pastor of New Birth Church in Lithonia, Georgia recently settled a multi-million dollar lawsuit to five young men for accusations of sexual impropriety. On several occasions Mr. Long spoke vehemently against homosexuality during sermons. Ted Haggard, former pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs, was removed from his position when news broke about activities with a male escort and methamphetamine use. There are several other situations of ministers behaving badly which have destroyed many Christian's belief in the purpose of fellowship.

Christians, as well as secular citizens, are discouraged from attending church services out of sheer disgust for the blatant hypocrisy that emanates from pulpits. Although non-Christians have no spiritual recourse; Christians have God's word to support remaining in the pews for service: 

         "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." — Hebrews 10:23

In addition, God will provide Christians with pastors who are willing to follow his word and feed his flock.         "And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. And it shall come to pass, when ye be multiplied and increased in the land, in those days." — Jeremiah 3:15

Moreover, God has no set number as to how many Christians make up a church. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.(Matthew 18:20KJV)

The next time you are discouraged from attending services-pray and ask God for guidance, patience, and love.

God Bless

NDAA- Why Are Christians Afraid?

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."(KJV, Ephesians 6:12)
Inspirational  Bible Verses: Ephesians 6:10-18
Inspirational Thought: Put on the Whole Armour of God

There has been much debate on some Christian forums about the National Defense Authorization Act(NDAA); and the effects on religious freedom. The areas of most concern are Title X  Subtitle D subsections 1021 & 1022 entitled,"Counter terrorism." In short the counter terrorism section allows our government to detain anyone, even American citizens, suspected of terrorist activities indefinitely and without trial. Furthermore, an amendment which would have prevented American citizens, both naturalized and residential aliens, from being held was removed from the act. Although the act speaks specifically about those engaged in terrorist activities; the ever fluctuating definition of terrorists is of much concern to Christians. In these times, due to standing our moral grounds; we can be considered terrorists.

To most Christians the NDAA is the final bell for religious persecution as stated in biblical end times prophecy. Many recall biblical scriptures which foretell the torment and torture of Christians who would not accept the mark of the beast(Revelations 9:4, 14:9-11,16:2, 19:20) during the tribulation of saints. Many express fear and concern about the upcoming events of persecution; believed to be brought on by NDAA. To those Christians I ask, "Why are you afraid?"

Jesus spoke clearly to those who would follow him about persecution and the blessings Christians will receive:
Matt. 5:10-12 “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Remember this is the path we have chosen. Jesus was persecuted despite all he did for mankind while he walked the earth. Did we, Christians, honestly believe we would escape suffering in his name? God, in all of his love and wisdom, gave Christians his word which foretells these events. His grace is sufficient to help us through the times of tribulation. He is aware of our vulnerabilities and fears. Therefore, he only asks that we stand on his word and with the full amour of God(Ephesians 6:10-18). Remember, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."(2Tim. 1:7)
God Bless