The Erroneous Use of Hebrews 10:25

I've been wanting to write about this scripture for a while since I've left the crack epidemic called "church." Since I've been in the "detox program",  I've ran into many people who've heard our story and the first thing they say to me is, "You should come to my church. I think you'll really like it. You know what the Bible says in Hebrews, 'Forsake not the assembly..." I've heard this, in a percentage rate, of 95.7% of my conversations with people who are obviously suffering from CTSD (Church Traumatic Stress Disorder). For some of us who don't know what Hebrews 10:25 says, let me help you:

"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."

Of course, a lot of these people forget what Hebrews 10:23-24 and Matthew 18:20 (the words of Jesus by the way) say but that's neither here or there. Throughout the 20th and 21st century (thanks to the Azuza Street Revival that unleashed the plague of religion), people have used this scripture to "guilt" people from missing church or to attend church if they are "fellowshipping with the Lord" on their own (i.e. - at home reading the Bible, etc.). When people use this scripture as they talk to me (not with me), the mind frame they are coming from is that their pastor "has what I need." I know, I used to the same thing to others. They believe the "level of the their pastor's anointing" will free me from whatever I'm going through and what I'm thinking. They believe "fellowshipping with saints" is restricted to coming to a church building "whenever the doors of the church are open." They believe that people should be an open book (i.e.-accountable to "leadership), in various parts for their life. People live others who are not attending church aren't growing in God or if they are doing things in "ministry" that they are moving "illegally in the spirit" without a "covering (a pastor)." It's funny how people are so seduced by these points and many more I can't put in one blog. These points I've mentioned and more are just regurgitated bull---- statements made by people throughout the ages to keep people locked up in the penitentiary of religion (which people call a part of the grace of God). Let me tell you people what Paul meant when he wrote Hebrews 10:25. He was referring to Matthew 18:20. He was referring to Proverbs 18:24. The relationships between David and Jonathan, Abraham and Sarah, Ruth and Naomi, Peter and Silas, and the list goes on. Did any of these people gather in a building all the time to hear the middle man give them a word? Or to be encouraged? Or to worship God? Even with the worship of God, do we have to go to certain place to meet God and to hear him speak to us? If that's the truth, then why in the hell did Jesus die for to "break down the middle wall of partition between us and God (Ephesians 2:14/Matthew 27:51)?" I recently read Ja Rule's new book "Unruly" and in one of the chapters about his mother, he notes seeing how to this very day how his mother won't attend church. You want to know why? Why should we have to go to church to hear the middle man (the pastor) give you a word when you can open up your Bible and get one for yourself.... Some of these people (I think most of 'em) are lazy and go to church for their weekly fixes of word and worship that have nothing to do with how we should live our daily lives (notice how much of these powerful words from God are always about the spiritual realm instead of how to treat your fellow man). Here's my take on Hebrews 10:25, especially to you folks who keep quoting that scripture incorrectly. It's about maintaining relationships with people who believe in the same God as you do. Not always agreeing with each other (for it's common for people in God reality to agree to disagree) but helping each other stay on the "right path" in this thing we call life. So, when the next person tells me I "need to come to their church" and uses Hebrews 10:25 to "guilt me into going back to church", I'm just going to say hell no. Keep your church. To all those who are taking this approach on people who don't go to church, let me give you something, matter of fact someone better to reference them to instead of referencing them to church, Jesus.

Well, that's going to piss some people. Good.

Til next time.......

The Question of Armor Bearing, Is It Right?

I was listening to a radio interview over the Internet (pimppreacher.com) and the discussion was about the "office of an armor bearer." As I got into the first 15-20 minutes of it, all I could do was shake my head. To give you guys a back story of my former "ministry" days, I was an armor bearer for a "small-time" ministry church that was into the "big-time" church image for over 7 years. When I look back those wasteful years in this position, it's a bit embarrassing. If you take time to read Judges and 1st Samuel in the Bible, this position is mentioned in a few areas. We mostly see this title used for King Saul and Jonathan. The famous king (and pimp) David was King Saul's armor bearer until spears and accusations were being thrown at him. Through years of screw ups, living the real "trife life", and doing dirty things in the name of himself, the Philistines, Israel's famed enemy, killed Saul's sons and basically had him surrounded. After facing the truth of his demise, he asks his "armor bearer" to kill him so he wouldn't face torture from the Philistines (like a b----). The armor bearer said nope so Saul committed suicide and looking at the fate of his "master", he went out the same way. There's a book by a famed armor bearer by Terry Nance called, "God's Armor bearer." My first experience with this book (after making some copies of it), I immersed myself in this indoctrination of this:

For the vision, purpose, dreams, opportunities, and goals for my own life and family must "die" to ensure the promotion and success of my pastor.

Another principle I definitely don't agree with is having "the spirit of the pastor." If you're a "Christian" shouldn't you only be concerned with having the spirit of Christ? So what do I do if my pastor is emotional, a liar, a cheater, a robber, prideful, a "tambourine player" (hahaha), a robber, a philanderer, etc.? What then? Think about it.

Now, after reading these statements, the average American would be like, "what the hell?" Well, this is what I'm saying. For 7 years, my friends, I took hold of various perspectives this book talked about but later I see that 99.9% of it is wrong and a blatant twist of God's intent about "ministry." For years, I allowed myself to get used and abused, washing my former "spiritual leaders" (pastors) cars, dress like 'em, talk like them, preach like them, teach like them, think like them, act like them, and the list goes on. Carrying their bibles when they were about to preach with a clean sweat rag, and a bottled water. Carrying their things to and from their office when they arrived to and from the church (Alcatraz). Building new "ministries" within their pathetic and fledgling church like audio (with the assistance of others), music (with the assistance of others), websites, Facebook, and various other methods/ideas. Hell, it even got so bad I was washing their cars, taking off of work, etc. because I allowed myself to become indoctrinated in a system of abuse. Basically, my life was all about them and not about God until 2013 (when I came back from B-more), the light switch came on. I was mentally, emotionally, and spiritual emasculated, a man without his own identity or country. But that's when I got me back and rebelled. I learned that these things they learned in this same position they used to be in was the same crap I allowed them to feed me. When I began seeing them "fall like the stars of heaven", that's when I knew this armor bearer thing is nothing but effeminate-like, subservient, slavery-like position no man or woman should ever accept. Some or many who may read this may be in the same position I used to be in may feel a bit offended. That's what the truth does. My questions are these:

Why should you carry your pastor's bible, don't they have two hands? Can't they carry their own?

Their making payments on the car, so why can't they get their lazy butt up and wash their own car?

Why do they need someone to "cover" them when they're laying hands on folks? Where's your armor bearer when you're praying for someone you meet on the street?

Why should you give up your dreams, goals, and job opportunities to stay in the same place for years doing the same old thing like good and obedient lil' servant to a pastor's over the top vision?

If this is you, you're caught up in religion and a religious-exalting position that brings your life to a permanent halt and the person or people you're "serving" are getting all the rewards. Think about. I could go on and on but I'll leave you with some references to see where I'm coming from and a bugged out video from a bugged out preacher man who's been snorting some heavy doses of religious crack cocaine (more potent than what you'll find in Southeast DC). You may agree or disagree, cool. Do your research but if you're feeling what I felt, it's time for you to be like Abraham and run for the border.

Til Next Time, You know the name

References:

http://youtu.be/mJVV1huRN3M  (A hot messsss by the way, you'll see)

http://www.christianpost.com/news/armor-bearer-is-not-a-biblical-church-office-says-fla-pastor-in-viral-post-108998/

http://pimppreacher.com/CFR%20Radio  (choose number 69)

When Karma Strikes

I remember my grandma used to say me to me, "what goes around, comes around." Well her and Aunt Edna both said it. 20 something years later, I see that "corner phrase" is more relevant in life than I've realized. I recently had a discussion with a good friend of mine and we came to a conclusion about the result of people's intentional wrongdoing, what my grandma and aunt used to say (and probably still saying, bless their sweet hearts). I can say from doing a lot of people dirty in the past, whether it was lying to cops, turning on people who had my best interest, or judging people prematurely, the same things happened to me. As one old friend from back in the day used to say, "it's reciprocal." It sure is. Nowadays, there are more mean spirited, heartless, straight emotionally sadistic people in the world today. They are blatantly and unrelenting in their actions and have much publications, scriptures, and excuses to condone their own behavior towards others. They find ways to rob from others of their time, money, and abilities (physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc.). They attack folks they feel are a threat to their status, position, or prestige. Take for example King Saul. Due to his arrogance, pride, insecurities, and immaturity, he tried to kill a cool and honest mentee named David (wow, it's kind of ironic....). No matter what good David did to build Saul's honor and kingdom, Saul's jealousy led him to throw javelins at him. When people showed support to Daivd, Saul killed the. All and those who stood with them kept their mouths closed (in fear of facing the same fate). Although David faced "exiled", this thing called life through a force named karma caught up with Saul. A ghost by the name of Samuel said, "you'll be here with me in the grave." Lo and behold, all of Saul's sons died in a battle with the Phillistines. As he stood on the hill seeing his life has drawn to a close, he asks his helper to kill him but he refused. Therefore, Saul took the sword in fear of what karma was going to deal him (probably torture by his enemies for an extended periodKama  of time) and killed himself. His helper followed suit. Karma is a mother------. Same people you see on top one day bites the dust like the Queen rendition due to the force of karma. The point is my friends, watch how we treat others because the same measure you give it, it'll get returned to you at the same level but in most cases, much higher. Learn to do others right just as others just as you want others to treat you. Think about it. So to all you people knowingly doing wrong to others, you're time is coming and karma is going to light you up.

Til next time, Karma's student.....

"Who The Cap Fits"

Some of who see the title of today's blog may wonder, "What the heck is this?" It's the title of an old Bob Marley track, which is really really popular in Jamaican, blues, and rock n roll cultures. It's a real song because it talks about how we as people have to be careful who we trust. I can tell you all that David O has been crossed by folks so many times and I've done the same to many good friends, too. A double cross of a friend or loved one comes in so many packages. People will "eat and drink with you", smiling in your face. Their words are "smoother than butter" but in their heart, they have "war in their heart." People will encourage you one minute but as soon as they congregate with their their circle of vultures, they dog you out, telling Peter, Paul, Pam, and Precious your most personal business. When you come around these same people or others you are cool with (some people, for years and years), folks look at you funny and treat you different. People start getting offended by rumors of what you said (the result of he say, she say = gossip) and start accusing you of things you didn't do. Oh, here's a better one, maybe you shared some confidential information and that same person runs and tells that info that was for their eyes only. Now the truth you spoke from the heart is now transformed into a pool of lies. Better yet, you get blasted in front of a group of people for no reason and now people are looking at you as the enemy (having no idea that there is always two sides to one story). Wow. As the late great Rastafari poet stated, "your worst enemy can be your best friend..." So true and I've come to find that out in very recent weeks. I remember a time when my grandfather, the late great Jamss Williams, a deacon, got his name dragge through the mud. Although I was 7 or 8, I sensed what was going on. In all my years, I never saw my grandmother so furious because those "ignorant people". (Sorry can't use the n word,  some of you may get offended) called their house phone accusing them of things they didn't do. Back mouthing them, shoot, it was like they was stalking them and provoking them to anger. You know, those fake church folks who "call" themselves Christians (but ain't nothing like the Christ). She almost slammed the phone but my granddaddy, in his Fonzi (being cool) mode, sat there in his recliner, feet kicked up, remote in hand, sweet iced tea in seat cup holder, and Cosby on the TV screen said, "Laura, don't worry about them, call down, God will get the,." She huffed and puffed a bit but walked away into the kitchen know he was rite and cooked us a mean North Carolina style catfish dinner. That's how we have to be, as Samuel Jackson would say "Cool." People are going to people. Only God can change the heart of men. Right now, we're seeing betrayal, dishonesty (I'm bad at this), manipulation, jealousy (like Ghostfsce Killah said in Bulletproof Wallets circa 2001), and maliciousness at an all time high. But we got townies up and know who we're dealing with it. It may be a supervisor, teacher, fellow employee, business, pastor, parent, sibling, or even your best friend you'll throw "javelins" to kill you, your reputation,  and your density. But we have to be like that man David of Bethelehem, "behaving wisely." As one of my mentors used to tell me, life is like a game a chess, you've got to think two or three steps ahead to defeat your opponent. When these jokers try to push your buttons to get you mad, keep calm and realize they are trying to get you to help assassinate your character. When sensing your people about to "sun you", learn to love those jokers with a long handed spoon. When you get hit up, don't stay in that relationship place, or situation when a way of escape has been given to you, be like David run (even if you are out in the wilderness by yourself). When you see the cap of Saul on top of somebody's head, you better get wise and know you've got a war on your hands. Evil will use anyone to destroy all that's good in your life. "Life can be unjust and you won't know who to trust" sometimes but know God is the one that sticks closer to you than any brother. Plus, His put His characteristics in others on this planet (no matter who they are, where they're from, or what they believe in) to keep you moving forward in life. My friends, all I'm asking us to do is get wise so we won't die but live.

Til Next Time....

Reference:
1st  Samuel 18
Proverbs 18:24
Psalms 55:21
...and Bob Marley...

Laughter Is Good For The Soul

It's the last day of July, the second hottest month of the year. Thank God it's about over. This was a pretty difficult month but one thing I can say is that last night, I laughed like the jokers used to laugh on Def Comedy Jam (when Martin Lawrence was the host, no offense to Joe Torry). The brothers got together last night to help one of the couples at our church move to their new "mansion." We were bagging on each other the whole night. I was clowning Mr. Rowland because he let his wife Mrs. Rowland pack all the boxes except one I helped him pack. My other friend Mr. Williams was clowning Mr. Rowland for carrying a light box full of tissues like it was heavy. Mr. McCallum was clowning me for how I can't sing when really he's worse than I am (I'm just saying). Mr. Williams was clowning Mrs. Rowland's brother Mr. Baptiste because everyone else was loading the truck while he was stuck in happy land looking at photos he hasn't seen in years. Dude, we clowned on each other for like 3 straight hours. It was a good night. While I was driving home, I was thinking the wonderful gift of laughter. We take this gift of God for granted. Solomon said in Proverbs 17:22 that a merry heart (that includes laughter) is like a good medicine. Laughter relieves stress. It helps us let go the cares and problems of the day. It helps us forget our worries of future events. The tension that's in our bodies is gone and we feel lighter than we did before. My beautiful wife Dionn is always showing me these videos by the Playmakers (http://www.youtube.com/user/thePlaymakers1), Phil Wade (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hFoTamYzuY), and Sweet Brown videos (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udS-OcNtSWo). Man, I just cry up a storm because those videos are so funny. Sometimes, I get so frustrated and stressed about certain things in my life, I don't enjoy it. Then, something funny happens and I just laugh. I laugh my little heart. Those tears of pain become tears of joy when I laugh. It's such a good release for the body, soul, and spirit. Research shows that it provides us three benefits (materials from HelpGuide.org):

1.Physical benefits: relaxes muscles, boosts immunity, decreases pain
2. Mental benefits: relieves stress, improves mood, eases anxiety and fear
3. Social benefits: improves relationships, enhances teamwork, helps diffuse conflicts


The spiritual benefits are the following:
1. trusting God in tight situations and believing He will help us in times of need
2. releases the burdens of oppression, frustration, bitterness, and stress
3. helps us appreciate God, friends, family, and even our enemies


I experienced all this last night and of course when I'm chilling at the house with my cupcake, Dionn. Most of us think that God is always serious. Yes, He can be but He has a crazy sense of humor. The next time you're going through something or notice something strange (that's funny of course), you'll see that's an indicator of His great humor. Sarah knew about it when He said she would have a child when she was passed 90 something years old. David wrote about it because he had to laugh so many times when he went through. Shoot, the Bible says God rejoices over His people when their ways please Him (Isaiah 62:5). You want to know what that includes? Laughter. We make God laugh all the time. Like the old saying goes, "you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans." He's probably falling over His throne 24/7 days in the week at us crazy jokers. My friends, preachers, lawyers, doctors, atheists, politicians, law enforcers, kids, parents, husbands, and wives, you better learn how to laugh. It's God's gift to us, a stress relieving, burden lifting experience given to mankind in the midst of his most arduous labor called life. Plus for some of us who are so knowledgeable, educated, and spiritual, we need to learn how to loosen up. Dude, chick, relax. Chill. Take a breather. "Saddown (Madea voice)." Some of us are just too serious. We need to loosen up and enjoy life through the gift of laughter.  Aiight?! Go on YouTube (JackValeFilms my favorite), go to the movies, talk with your friends and family about events of funny moments. Shoot, go to Walmart, you'll always see interesting things and people there that'll make you laugh. You'll feel better and life in general will get better. And this will make God laugh because we've learned to rightly use this wonderful gift.

Til next time, dgwo.

P.S. - To Mr. Carl Rowland - I told you I was going to get you back. :)

Reference:

-Proverbs 17:22
-HelpGuide.org - http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm