Moving Forward - Israel Houghton

With only hours left in 2009, let us look to the start of new year and decade with renewed hope and determination. None can rewind the clock to alter what has already passed but we all can move forward toward the destiny that can only be fully realized on our Call Path.



Happy New Year!
Phil 3:12-14

Nugget of Wisdom: Be Shelter Not The Storm

We are individuals...unique. We have different standards. We see things differently. We feel things differently, and we express those feelings differently. That means we won't always agree. We fuss. We fight. We argue. We breakup. We go our separate ways. Such is life. It is as expected as turmultous storms battering the Gulf Coast.

However...

With all that makes us different...unique...individual, we are still HUMAN. We are flesh and blood, with hearts beating, brains computing and lungs taking in the same air. So, as we unashamedly express what makes us uncommon, let us not forget to cover others with Love. Storms will arise in human interaction, but to others, be shelter not the storm.

Creating Shelter,

Byron Jamal

We Are Christmas - Spelman College Glee Club

This is the Spelman College Glee Club singing an amazing rendition of "We Are Christmas," which reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. Merry Christmas from the Call Path Family to you and yours.

Nugget of Wisdom: Love is God

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son. John 3:16a KJV

We are told that God is love (1 John 4:8). That means Love is God. So, when God presented Jesus to the world, God was not merely loving the world, God was sending love into the world. Jesus IS God's Love.

Love is not just an action or feeling; it is an entity, a presence yearning for expression. Love is God, for God is love. When we celebrate Jesus, we do so with us in mind, knowing that God also creates us as a grand display of God’s love, and the power inside of us stems from that love, a great love we must not fear. For, if we fear true love it is only because we fear the true essence of God. God is Love.

Nugget of Wisdom: Creation Confirms Purpose

The fly is often seen as just an annoying insect that helps to spread diseases and ruin perfectly good outdoor meals; however, even the fly has a positive purpose. They are food for many birds, reptiles and amphibians, and they serve us by aiding in decomposition.

Like flies, we all have parts of us that can be seen as negative and annoying to others. Even with those characteristics, bad parts don't negate broad purpose. Creation is a confirmation of purpose, so don't let the pieces of you that aren't as easily accepted stop you from believing in the necessity of your function in the Earth.

ON CALL: Is That Opportunity Knocking?

Early this year, I had an offer to go to Africa. I turned it down because I would have been gone for 3 months. Shortly after that, I moved to Colorado for a frest start. Since I have been here, things have been going extremely slow for me and once again the opportunity to go to Africa has represented itself. I'm confused and not sure what to do. Can you give me some advice?

- Opportunity Knocks
Denver, Colorado

The Gift: Great Gift Ideas for Everyone

Kenneth Hibbler, Contributing Writer

“Christmas time is here. Happiness and cheer…” we all know the words from Charlie Brown’s Christmas. While these words embody the season, the last few year or so have been tough. Christmas for many is synonymous with buying numerous gifts, racking up debt or family stress, especially with the unemployment rate on the rise.

So let’s say you’re in the holiday spirit, yet your pockets are still feeling the recession. Whatever will you do? Easy!

Here are some trendy, stand-out and affordable gifts for the recessionista who’s trying to put a smile on the faces of a few loved ones on Christmas day:

'Tis The Season to Stay Healthy & Happy: Kira's Top 5 Tips for the Holidays

Kira Buckley, Contributing Writer

This is a season filled with good cheer; unfortunately, it can also be a time when we experience a greater degree anxiety, putting more stress on our physical and mental health. If you’re not careful, this joyous time of the year can very easily become chaotic and frustrating. Let’s not forget the diet disasters lurking around every corner from Christmas cookies, eggnog, holiday cakes, and appetizers featuring anything and everything wrapped in bacon.

It's important that we learn to pass on many of those extra helpings of temptation and actively control our stress levels. This year, take care of yourself and your family using these tips for staying stress free and healthy during the holidays.

On Purpose w/Pastor Timothy Ross

My Life's Mission & Purpose

I have been assigned to communicate the Bible in the most relevant way possible, to spiritually equip believers to do what God has placed in their hearts to do. Unlike my pastor, Bishop T. D. Jakes, who wears many hats, I’m more like a Chick-Fil-a; I sell chicken. It may be prepared in many different ways, but at the end of the day, it’s chicken. I am called to simply teach the gospel to those who have made a commitment to Jesus Christ, and show them how to live that life to the fullest. The mandate for this season of my ministry is not evangelism. Since conviction comes from the Holy Spirit, there isn’t much I can do with sinners except present Christ. His Spirit has to compel. In fact, I’m truly called to disciple others, regardless of where they may be on their Christian walk.

Jesus On Purpose

This issue we thought it most fitting to interview The Gift, the one we recognize as the real reason for the season, his name is Jesus! In all of our interviews, we ask the same series of questions in order to better understand the journey into purpose. The life of Christ is one that has brought a greater sense of purpose to the lives of millions over the ages. His realm of influence and impact is remarkably unparalleled.

Daily Nugget: Strong AND Mighty

When many of us are asked about life's challenges, we say, "It's nothing," or "It's nothing I can't handle or get through." We are often told to "suck it up" or "get over it," forcing us to make light of the obstacles on our Call Path. There are four vital points to note here:

Stop Sign

Preserving the integrity of another's message preserves your integrity as a messenger.

Nugget of Wisdom: Dying In Fear

For everything that exists, there is a corresponding fear.  There are people who fear dogs, because they might bite.  There are those who fear public speaking, because they might mess up at the mic.  There are those who fear clouds, because it might rain.  There are even those who fear love, because it might cause them pain.

I have found that there is a way to die and still be alive, just live in fear.  What kind of existence is one lived in fear?  If you live in fear of your greatness, you will never attain it.  If you live in fear of success, you will never strive for it.  If you live in fear of your potential, you will always aim lower.  You will have breath, but you won’t be alive.  The purpose God breathed into you will slowly pass away, and you will be stuck on life-support until you realize that yours is not a life of fear but of love, power and soundness of mind.

A Christmas Miracle at the River

This proves that the power of God can turn a person's life around at any age or stage of development.  Only Believe!

Life Begins at the Core: Honoring Your Creator with Healthy Living

Picture This: You start out seeking to remove some unwanted body fat, because you realize that the mirror isn’t lying about how you look. As you go along, you can’t figure out why you keep stalling, getting frustrated and quitting. You lose a pound and then gain five more. With the holidays rapidly approaching, it can seem like there is no hope in sight. Well, the answer to your problem may be much simpler than you once believed. Nourishing the roots of your health by taking care of your core nutritional needs creates a strong foundation for your body and establishes a bank of resources to build, repair and fuel it. Living from the Core is a disciplined self therapy which brings body, mind and spirit together for a holistic approach to health and healing.

What To Do When a Relationship Expires

Everyone has been there once or twice. Your friend meets new friends, and you begin becoming best friends with yourself.  It's not intentional, and, of course, it doesn't happen quickly. You wean yourself. You start noticing that you're not going as many places with your friend as you used to. The conversations you used to have are now dry. The memories you once shared can only be recalled by stumbling upon old pictures instead of "remember when" chats. Your friendship has evolved into a casual acquaintance, but that's not the problem; the problem is that you are OK with that.

A First Impression That Impresses

You’ve probably heard these quotes before: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” or “The first impression is the lasting impression.” Regardless of the thought that you should “never judge a book by its cover,” it’s human nature for us to base our opinion of a person on the first impression. Unfortunately, these first impressions can be the cause for many to be misjudged or disqualified as a potential employee, date, etc.

So how does one overcome such an unforeseen dilemma? Carefully plan your attire and accessories without overdoing it.

Nugget of Wisdom: Destiny Found in the Unfamiliar

While looking for a stream on which to build a dam, a young beaver gets lost in the woods.  She takes a minute and looks around but has no idea which way to go.  Then, she looks up.  An old owl is sitting in the tree.  She calls out to him and asks, "Do you know where I can find the stream?"  He clears his throat and says, "I know where it's not.  It's not where you've been, so it must be where you haven't gone."

Many of us look around for answers to our destiny and our Call Path, but we end up with more questions than before.  It's time to look up and receive the truth that your path is not found where you've been, but the surest path to your destiny is found in the unfamiliar. Don't be afraid to move forward.

Keep Holding On

Avril Lavigne sings a powerful song of encouragement to those who may feel like letting go, reminding you that you can keep holding on, because you are never truly alone.

Nugget of Wisdom: Afraid of Greatness

There is battle between a little boy, David, and a massive warrior, Goliath.  It would seem as though David should be scared to fight a brute like Goliath, but instead, he stands in the face of Goliath without fear.  How?  He embraces the great power that is within him.

There is great power inside of us as well.  It can be intimidating to know we wield such great potential; however, we will always fear others when we fear the greatness in ourselves.  Once we acknowledge and embrace the power inside of us, we will begin to overcome the obstacles that stand in the face of our future. In the face of a giant, remember your greatness.

Nugget of Wisdom: When Loss Occurs

When I lost my grandfather, I felt a void was left in the space he once occupied in my life. I was grief-stricken for some time. Now that I acknowledge loss as a natural part of path progression, I realize anger was mixed in with my sorrow. I was sad that I lost my grandfather, but I was also angry that he left me, his grandson.

Whether we lose a person, job or any other element in our lives, when we experience loss two natures rise in us: grief and pride. Grief emerges out of what it meant to us; pride emerges due to what we meant to it. Grief occurs when you think of the end of your relationship; pride occurs when you think of the end of your ownership. We control or own nothing but ourselves, so when we lose something, we should focus on the purpose and not the possession of what we once had.

Nugget of Wisdom: Closed Hearts Die

The heart is an organ that pumps blood delivering life-sustaining oxygen and nutrients to 300 trillion cells in your body.  If the blood flow to your heart ever becomes blocked, you will suffer what is known as a heart attack.  The longer it stays blocked, the higher your potential for death becomes.

What happens physiologically happens emotionally as well.  We all suffer heart attacks (breaks) at one point or another.  Just don't allow the breaks to become a barrier to the future flow of love in your life.  If a heart is broken, it can heal, but if a heart is closed, it will die.

God Always Leaves You With Enough

Despite what you've lost, what may have been stolen, what you wasted, took for granted, discounted or rejected, shortcomings, deficits, seasons of lack... just remember, whatever you have left is enough to start again... God ALWAYS leaves you with enough.

Help Me Believe

This is one of my favorite songs from Kirk Franklin. It's an honest and heart felt plea. I hope that you find inspiration and hope in its message.

The Sweet Taste of a Job Well Done

What is better than the satisfaction of a job well done? Whether finishing an intense workout, completing a home improvement project, or even a great performance, accomplishing any goal where real effort has been expended, produces the sweet taste of a job well done.

Nugget of Wisdom: Let Faith Work Then Work Faith

Before a bird leaps from a branch to soar through the air, the bird first breathes in that air. Before a fish begins to start swimming through the ocean waters, the fish first breathes in that water. The only way birds and fish thrive in their environment is by taking it in and working what's in it.


Faith works the same way in us. Before you can walk or run into new faith ventures, you first must let faith override the fear in you and then use that faith to thrive in your enviroment. Let faith work in you, and then work in your faith.

Nugget of Wisdom: Power In Purpose

When you were young, there were all kinds of things to fear: the dark, monsters, even artichokes...lol. You were afraid because those things were unfamiliar and you were uncertain of your potential in the presence of them. As an adult, there are still many things you can fear: debt, layoffs, failure and loneliness.

However, the same power that you possessed when you realized there was no monster under your bed is the same power that is in someone who recognizes their purpose. You have to power to have peace in darkness and in storms. There is so much more to say about the power in you, but for now know that you’ll laugh at your fears when you realize the true power in your purpose.

Nugget of Wisdom: Helping Others

A business man sees a young lady fall ahead of him.  On her back, she looks and sees him approaching.  She begins to cry out, "Sir, can you help me?"  Without a word, he points to his watch and begins to walk past her.  However, he is soon lying next to her on the ground.  Rolling onto his side, he looks at her and asks, "Why didn't you tell me there was black ice here?"  She responds, attempting to get to her feet, "You were in too much of a hurry to help."

The Relevant Truth: Helping others helps you.

Nugget of Wisdom: Give Thanks

Giving thanks is the purest sign of intelligence, so this Thanksgiving be smart and give thanks for your life, your journey and everything associated with it.  You have more to be thankful for than you could ever know.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Nugget of Wisdom: Humble Beginnings

None of us are born walking. In fact, when we are born we are defenseless, naive and  ignorant to the reality that we have entered. Yet, despite how much we don't know or possess, our guardians still have great expectations that one day we will walk.

Since most of us accomplish this, it is safe to say that a humble beginning shouldn't be the deterrent to success, but it should be the motivation that promotes great expectation. Don't doubt and deviate from destiny because of deficiency. If God indeed exalts the humble, then God exalts humble beginnings. Only believe!

Relevant Text: 1 Peter 5:6 (Amplified Bible)
Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you.

On Call: I Need More

I am 31 years old and have been attending the same church for my entire life. My father is a bishop and the pastor. Although there are many aspects of the ministry that I love, I am not getting the spiritual nourishment that I need. It's not that what my father is preaching is wrong, but it is just so predictable. The only thing different about the messages that he preaches now and when I was growing up is the date on the cd or dvd. How do I tell my father that I am going to look for another church without him taking it personal? Obviously, someone is getting what they need from his preaching and teaching or else the church would be empty. I just need more! In my situation, is conflict unavoidable?


I Need More - in TX

-------------------------

Dear I Need More, 
It's pretty safe to assume that some level of conflict is unavoidable. However, don't fret. One definition for conflict is simply a disagreement. While the situation you find yourself in could potentially excalate beyond a simple disagreement, be careful not to approach him with a defensive attitude. Its better to handle this with humility and sensitivity. For many parents who also happen to be pastors to their children, over time the two become so intertwined that they can't clearly distinguish the difference. It is important that your father is clear that in finding a new church home that better suites your spiritual needs that it doesnt mean that he has lost your respect or support. Ecc. 3:1 says To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. Those times and seasons are not set but us, our parents, or anyone else.

Employ the prayers of your father as you embark upon this new spiritual journey. Because you go in a spirit of meekness and humility, if by chance your leaving the church is a mistake, you will have left in such a way that should make returning fairly easy. In the end there is no way to fully know how he will respond or react to your decision or this conversation. However, you still have a personal responsibility to follow what you believe you are being lead to do. To stay for any other reason besides the fact that YOU believe you are supposed to be there will ultimately not be enough (in the long run) to keep you there. If the truth be told, a portion of the people at your father's church probably came from or grew up in some one else's church. He, no doubt, came from another ministry to lead or create this one. That said, he would have no church without people who responded to their spirit's cry for something more than what they were getting. Continue to be there for your father and pray for him, but do what needs to be done. 

Clogged Tub

What only took seconds to drain in the past was almost up to my calf muscles. I checked the stop and it was up. Uggh...The tub was clogged. There had been no gradual change, no warning that there was about to be a problem. This awareness snuck up on me like a heart attack....so abrupt and unexpected.

I did what most of us do. I got frustrated and then tried to ignore it. Then I blamed it on the soap or perhaps the neighbors who had put something in their sink or tub and it was causing a massive back up for all of us... stupid neighbors. 

Nugget of Wisdom: What Do You Do With It?

Have you ever had a great idea or vision, but just didn't have the immediate resources to make it happen?  Illness, poverty, lack of degree or pedigree can make you feel like you shouldn't even try to make your dream a reality.

A childhood illness caused Helen Keller to grow up blind and deaf, but she became a famous author and political activist.  Lance Armstrong was diagnosed with cancer, but didn't let his diagnosis stop him from being a seven time Tour de France winner.  During 27 years of imprisonment, Nelson Mandela continued to fight against apartheid, and he lived to see the practice overturned and become President of South Africa. 

What are we to learn from these individuals? It doesn’t matter what you start with; what matters is what you do with what you have.

Much Life and Love,

Byron Jamal

Nugget of Wisdom: Weighted Not Worthless

Last Thanksgiving I ate the most I think I have ever eaten in my life.  I had so much on my plate that the food seemed to all run together.  All that food made the plate and eventually my stomach feel weighted.  That food made me feel sluggish, and I caught a case of the...you know what.

Isn't this what happens to us in our lives?  We pile so much stuff on the plate of our lives that our lives are weighed down with busyness, mistakes and failures.  Some of the stuff is healthy, but most of it is drenched in nasty, life-clogging grease.  What is the grease?  The grease is simply the stuff that you know is making you feel weighted and sluggish.  You wonder why you are sluggish in classes, sluggish in relationships, and sluggish at work...you're weighted.

The simple truth is that while you may feel weighed down you're not worthless.  All the junk of your life that seems to weigh you down doesn't negate your worth.  Let me pose it like this:  Is a diamond in the dirt still worth the same as a diamond in a jewelry store?  YES!!!!   One's just weighed down by dirt and the other free.  You're worth the same whether you're weighed down or free.  Let me try it one more way: Junk in your truck doesn't decrease the value of your vehicle!  While your trying to get stuff out the trunk of your life REMEMBER: You're weighted not worthless.

Much Life and Love,

Byron Jamal