Jesus…Got An App For That?

With advances in technology surfacing every other millisecond, the world has grown accustomed to instant gratification. Instant gratification has now even got a microwave version called Quick Response. Translation—RIGHT NOW! As one of few earthlings who has yet to join the society of smartphone users, I surprisingly don’t feel at a lost. While the world goes around uploading videos, scanning company barcodes, and updating Twitter feeds, I reserve the right to live a simple life. And this vow is simply joyous! My life lacks the toil of trying to remain on top of the up-and-coming; however, I remain keenly aware of the space and time in which I reside. The lack of empty distractions has allowed me to locate my purpose and destiny. Thus, I have progressively been downloading what I’ll dub my Jesus App into my “smart” dome—head that is.

I marvel at people constantly found clicking on their phones, “living” technologically-sound and busy lives. They download game apps for happiness, music apps for relaxation, news feed apps for up-to-date information, and apps for this, and apps for that. But I, with my regular phone, am doing just fine with my one Jesus App! He supplies all of my needs and this is accomplished without the dogged stress that the world endures as they toil to make things happen. My Jesus App equips me for every avenue in life and supplies me with the grace to handle its hiccups. Moreover, when I employ my Jesus App work seems like play, and attempted turmoil; misdirected victory.

With Jesus, all I do is win! Therefore, I suggest that today you clear your schedule, erase some of those screen cluttering life apps, and download a user friendly Jesus App. Allow Him to transfer His grace, mercy, salvation, love, peace, and joy into your spirit today. And as you freely upload your feelings, desires and prayers, Jesus will download your daily bread. Finally, stop the app downloading frenzy that the world requires, and tap into God’s zoe life by today downloading your own Jesus App.

Approve This Download?

Lord I thank you for making clear today the things that are necessary in life. I thank you for de-cluttering my existence so that I can really start living. Thank you for helping me understand that I’m nothing without you, and that only you can supply me with the Bread of Life.

In Jesus Name. Amen.

Blessings good people,

Nikki D

Raw-N-Uncut: Yeah I Said It...!

WARNING: This Ain’t Your Average Blog Entry

Real Talk:

Today I throw structure, syntax, and standard English to the wind! I gotta give it to you how it came to me. I woke up this morning with my heart heavy and speaking loudly! And this was the message it conveyed this fine morning:

It’s sad when you get more sound advice from sinners than supposed saints. I marvel at people who sit on holy pedestals but continue to hold resentment, unforgiveness, strife, and bitterness and think that their spot is secured in heaven. Don’t be deceive because just when you’re certain that your heavenly mansion is guaranteed it gets filled by those who you would least expect. Don’t get caught slipping!

The world knows more about God than you think they do and when given God’s final ultimatum many (especially those thought to be far gone) will choose wisely. So, don’t think that your spot is so secure because you’ve been at this “faith walk” for 20 years! Check yourself daily, renewing your mind with the word; all the while, thanking God for new mercies.

We are all one Jesus away from hell so you better make sure you really know Him, or better yet He really knows you!

And for the record truly knowing Jesus has nothing to do with the number of titles you don, or the special parking space reserved for you at the front of your church building. No, Jesus resides in the day to day decisions that you make when everything in your soul (mind, emotions, & will) screams CHEAT, STEAL, LIE, KILL, and you decide to take the righteous road! That’s true Kingdom living; not how many times you punch in on your “good works” religious time clock.

So don’t be so quick to toot your nose up at those you deem heathens. They may be more Kingdom secure than you POSER!

The very people that are held as pious and upstanding saints in the world’s eyes are the ones whom heaven has yet to check-in on the entry roll. So don’t get it twisted for two seconds when you think your way of praise or worship is more superior than someone who possess no church etiquette. God, desires pure, unadulterated praise and sacrificial worship because those who worship Him, worship Him in spirit and in truth. So, be not deceived because your timely, well choreographed, on-beat, two-step won’t get you into heaven if your heart is found muddied and foul!

So with declaration from my core, I vow to this day to GET OVER MYSELF and I pray you follow suit!

Nikki D

Wal-Mart & Satan: Low Prices...NEVER!

After an interesting conversation with my mother somehow we got on the topic of why I dislike shopping at Wal-Mart. After voicing my longing for the nostalgic “regular” Wal-Marts of yesteryears (wow, has it really been that long?), I left her with a question that sent her on an investigation to the blue warehouse building. I asked her this simple question; “have you not noticed that the whistling 'Rolling Back Prices' Smiley Face logo of Wal-Mart has disappeared altogether?” Accordingly, this fact stood as the basis for my argument. Because without him, Wal-Mart no longer had the lowest prices in the grocery industry (Can you say Krogers?). My mother’s argument was momentarily quieted and then answered with, “you know what, I can’t remember the last time I saw that smiley face.” Exactly!


As an observer by nature I notice everything especially if it relates to the places I often frequent, or the brands that I commonly purchase. Accordingly, I was the first in my family to state my disdain when Orbit removed two sticks of my Sweet Mint gum and still charged me the same price. I mean what are ya’ll doing with my two other pieces of gum Orbit?! But, that’s another story. However, this just adds to the validity of my observation skills when it comes to most things.

It wasn’t until this morning’s shower that I had an epiphany of why Wal-Mart’s phasing out of their smiley face bothered me so. I am aware of the trademark infringement case that caused the megastore to kick Mr. Smiley to the curb, but something still didn’t rub me the right way. And then like a bolt of lightning, I experienced an aha! moment right in mid-lather. I lost all respect for Wal-Mart not because they were forced to rid their company of the Smiley, but because they let their word fall to the waist side as well. As a result, I was made to feel like a dunce in a major bait-and-switch initiative, and I officially had a problem with this “super” establishment. Not only, did I feel hustled by the once “reasonably priced” merchandise ending in a mere $0.88 instead of a full dollar, I now saw the connection between Wal-Mart’s sneaky antics and Satan himself.

Now before I get hate mail, hear me out! God has interesting ways to get life lessons to the masses, so here goes. Just like the enemy, Wal-Mart lured buyers in with the anticipation of getting the best items at the cheapest rates, and for quite a while this was true. And like this Satan, lures us away from salvation with the idea that we can live the “good life” at a lesser sacrificial level than complete holiness and righteousness. And for a moment these things seem proven to an extent. Wal-Mart was indeed, the lowest merchandiser at one point, and I would be a liar if I said I never had a good time partying like a rock star; giving into my every carnal desire. But, when Satan’s rug was pulled from under my footing in a Holy-Ghost-initiated reality check I was left bruised with conviction. Now, fully aware of just how much I was “spending” my life away.

Much like the idea of shopping at a store that is no longer valuable, but the advances of its culture are seemingly irresistible , Satan has this effect on believers who refuse to renew their minds with truth. The deceptions of the enemy are so subtle, and his trickery so well orchestrated that he’ll have people doing things they don’t desire, but they can’t shake because of attachment to their spiritual DNA! However, I have a problem with being hoodwinked and watching others fall prey to lies! Thus, I feel it my duty to reveal when Satan is trying to lead people on a wild goose chase of "comparative shopping" when God’s way has already been paid for. Christ handled our sticker price; so get out of the (Wal-Mart lol) check-out line because there’s no other price that needs to be covered! Just thankfully accept the gift and keep it moving.

Satan is sneaky, but his lies always fall through. Hence, I suggest you follow the King of kings who really does have the “best buys”, and the revelation power to give understanding in all things (like where my two pieces of gum disappeared to!). Let that marinate good peoples as you think twice about your next "shopping" trip. Things are not always as they seem—PAY ATTENTION!

Nikki D

Note To Satan: “This Ain’t What You Want!”: Overcoming Bullies

Ever notice that once confronted, bullies pan out to be nothing more than overstuffed chickens? It’s as if your confrontation of them suddenly makes them realizes just how powerless they really are without a good dose of fear. In my experience, bullies are always bark and no bite. Think back just a moment to those heated “discussions” on the school playground. When Tyrone got tired of BIG Moe constantly jacking him for his lunch money, Moe was eventually defeated with one swift left hook to the nose. The one-hitter-quitter was all it took to slay the seemingly impenetrable Goliath. Why? Why are the world’s biggest giants, obstacles, or bullies defeated by those who seem physically unqualified?

The answer is so simple that it seems like this logic couldn’t possibly be referenced within the “deep” Bible—oh but it is! And the answer for 1000 is get you a crew! People won playground brawls because they had a crew. And whether one's crew was a gang willing to fight, a cheerleading squad, or a hype team; the posse was the inevitable prescription to winning battles. Now, I know some people already have cousin Lou on speed dial ready to murk (Palm Beach slang for “get revenge on”) the dudes bothering you on the block, but wait just one second! Nikki D is not condoning violence because it’s never the answer. But, what I am saying is fight smart, not hard. No need to sweat and mess your hair up when you were given the conqueror’s manual.

Paul had the right idea in Philippians 1:27-28 when he said “stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the Gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but you will be saved—that by God.” I laughed when I read this passage of scripture because Paul was telling believers that it’s necessary that we are just as gangsta as the devils that try to intimidate us on this earth. And not only are we to stand firm in our belief against those who oppose us (see haters), we are not to flinch when they throw their insults, slanders, and digs at our reputation. Nope, we should smile with a countenance that says “This ain’t what you want, because you have no idea who I roll with!” And as we smirk, trust and believe with unyielding faith that God sees and He has your back when you are in His will. Enemies will never defeat believers because the Son professed assuredly that “I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

So the next time Satan sends his workers spewing ying-yang in your direction, smile and summon your authority—your crew. The Father, Son, Holy Ghost, and angels stay strapped and ready to defeat the devourer and his antics. So be of good cheer and fight the good fight of faith because can’t no devil in hell steal a victory that is already awarded to you! And when we look adversity square in the face and say “I’m not scared of you and I’m not moving” guess what that does? It lets enemies know that “they will be destroyed, but you will be saved!” So, stop cowering in fear when God did not give us the spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7). Fight off those attacks with your two-edged sword; keeping your sanity, faith and peace intact. There is nothing better to fight for than the clarity of mind and speech, and peace. The world didn’t give it to you so don’t let the enemy of this world attempt to take it from you!

Fight Baby!

Nikki D

The Great Falling Away… Is This You?

“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.” 1 Timothy 4:1 NIV

The Bible prophesies about a great falling away that will take place in the earth before the return of Christ. And it is righteous men and women who will fall prey to this supernatural phenomenon. However, is this predestined occurrence avoidable? This question rose up in my spirit as I studied the book of Romans. I was revitalized and ignited with new power as I read in 8:30 that I was predestined, called, justified, and glorified by God. As a result, I belted praises to the roof top because of this awesome gift given to such an undeserving candidate. But, as I kept reading into chapter 9 the tough reality of the situation set in.

Just like God has predestined, called, justified, and glorified me, He has also created people to which He will show no mercy. Beginning at the 16th verse of the ninth chapter of Romans, Paul explains that this was the very reason for God’s creation of Pharaoh. “I, [God], raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth” (NIV; emphasis mine). Wow! So, just as God has predestined me to display His greatness, He also chose the “Pharaohs” of the world to display is wrathful and vengeful power in the earth. Why? Neither of us chose our destiny; but, why have mercy on one soul and wrath against the other?

Paul knew that we would ask such question which is why he posed his own set of questions in verse 9; “Shall what was formed say to Him who formed it, ‘Why did you make me this way?’” (20) Again, WOW! So, then where does that leave us as believers who have been chosen? This is the answer that the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart:

“It is imperative that as the chosen of God that we do not take the things of Him lightly. The things that He requires of us on this daily journey we must adhere to them with serious tenacity, and to the best of our God-given ability. For, if we take light the things of God we will most definitely fall prey to the subtle influences of the enemy which will cause us to be led astray by our own fleshly tendencies. Therefore, remain on guard, and be not deceived because your adversary is seeking to snatch you out of the running for your inheritance. So, study, read, meditate, recite the words of God, and pray without ceasing; for your very position in the kingdom is being threatened.”

Hence people of God, in order for us to remain in the running for the inheritance of God’s kingdom we must pursue God’s righteousness with extreme tenacity. We don’t want to look up one day and realize that we have become one of the fallen just, as prophesied about within scripture. Get on your post and remain there! It is here that you will find safety, longevity, predestining, calling, justification, and glorification.

Take Heed!

Nikki D

All Fingers Point Towards D.C.: Black America’s Blame Game

“I thought Barack Obama could have provided some way out. But he lacks backbone.” ~Cornel West (truthdig.com)

Cornel West’s blame of Obama for black America’s problems resonates overwhelmingly in the hearts of many Americans. All fingers point towards D.C. However, with all hands stretched northward, it’s a wonder why there’s no real work taking place. When you remove your hand from the plow, metaphorically speaking, to slap the hand of a supposed oppressor, you miss out on the value of a day’s work. Now, many will take the previous statement as a slavery reference, and this is to be expected by those who always have something to say, but never anything to do. As I channel my inner Michael Jackson (R.I.P.), I think it necessary that we all visit the closest vanity mirror ASAP!

I’ve never encountered a more egotistical, hateful, narcissistic, people than Americans who have found themselves in a position of power; no matter how slight! And this is not everyone, but I speak of those who use their position to cripple rather than empower. Poverty is a creation of Satan and the mentality linked to it is running rampant in minority communities. It’s utterly disgusting the audacity in thinking that one is justly warranted a free “sit on your tail” pass while others remedy your problems. Yes, we all need help from time to time, but the epidemic of passing down this “you owe me” mindset to future generations is deadly!

I knew, undoubtedly, that Obama’s presidency would face such backlash as this. But, it’s an even greater travesty when it comes from a member of the community who has the clout that Cornel West does. To think that a, now, black-occupied presidency seat is the antidote to all black problems is asinine! The only way that black America (and all America for that matter) is going to truly solve the issues our communities face is to take a harsh look at the badmouthing critic in the mirror. Are you pointing the finger of blame towards others because your circumstances are beyond your capable control? Are you like those who have made their brand of complaining, blaming, and nagging a daily staple? When will we grow up and understand that it’s not how loud we whine, but the actual work that gets the job done?

I will be content when people understand that one’s success is not rooted in the tearing down of another; or, for that matter, in the waiting on one to bring about change in your life. It’s your life so if you want change, then it’s going to have to be you that enacts it. Be the change that you desire to see; otherwise, sit there, shut up, and wait until your number is called! And this message is especially for my brothers and sisters of the Christian persuasion. It’s NOW high time we banish excuses and just do what God has required of us. Hence, more working equals less time to complain and point fingers of accusation.

People want others to remedy their problems before they ever check with the Creator to see if there’s anything that can first be done on their part. No one owes you anything, and when this lesson is fully learned, from it flows good character and proper work ethic. Stop the madness people and look to the ant you sluggards!

Real Talk!

Nikki D

Planking… All the Rage…Really?

I was lost, but now I’m found. I have discovered what all the commotion is regarding this planking business. I was tired of being “out of the loop” on numerous FaceBook and Twitter feeds, so I headed over to my trusty compadre Google. And as always, my friend in deed came though like a champ. To my surprise I discovered that planking is just substitute verbiage for another “P” word that Christians have been practicing for centuries. I’ve always known this act as lying prostrate. By definition, prostrate is lying face down on the ground; and this is how Christians traditionally approach God in prayer; showing lowly humility.

Now, don’t get me wrong this “Planking Fiasco” is quite amusing (to each his own), but really people? Do we not have things better to do with our lives? Well, that’s a question that only you can answer. In the meantime, in between time, I’ll keep living while ya’ll play dead!

Holla!

Nikki D

Serving An Invisible God

As I sit here listening to the lyrics of this song, I began to feel deep longing for the companionship of another human being. But, this particular song emphasized how necessary it is for believers to trust and confide in Jesus; an invisible Savior. I think that has been, and continues to be one of the most difficult things about my Christian walk. My putting full and complete faith in someone I cannot even see. It’s tough! And regardless of how many Sunday mornings I attend service, how many messages I hear, or how much advice I seek, this is still the hardest part of my faith. How is it even humanly possible to trust in something or someone we can’t see? If I were to be seated at a table with no visible chairs, would I really risk the chance of falling for what I could not tangibly see? Well, this is what our faith in God is all about. And even though the logical notion of it all seems far beyond reality at times, I am comforted by the words of scripture.

In Hebrews 4:15-16 it reads:

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (NIV).

Truly comprehending these words has softened the blow of my human frailty. So many times as believers we buy into the lie that we can’t approach God with foolishness; reasoning that an Almighty God wouldn’t want to deal with our, seemingly, insignificant life crises. But, today I learned for certain that this is a lie from Satan. The above passage instructs that we should approach God’s throne of grace boldly, accepting His mercy and grace in our time of longing need. And why, because we have a high priest who has felt, dealt with, and overcome the things that we bring to God in prayer. So your unpacking of emotional, physical, and spiritual baggage is not uncommon to God. This is not His first rodeo when it comes to hearing pleas for mercy and grace!

As I continued reading Hebrews I stopped at 5:8-9. The words in this passage literally jumped off the page, saturating my soul with pure unadulterated assurance. These verses read:

“Although [Christ Jesus] was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him” (NIV; emphasis mine).

Wow! This let me know, undoubtedly, that Christ has felt my longing as well. There were indeed times that He had difficulty trusting the plan of His invisible Father. But His secret to success was simply believing that God had His back. He trusted God’s love for Him. And I believe that there were times when Jesus looked around on the earth (as I’ve also done) and asked himself what would be my alternative. If I were to stop trusting God because at the moment my feelings are hurt, I’m wounded, I’m broken and vulnerable, or I am confused, what then would I turn my trusting to? And once we, as Christ did, understand that faith in God has bought the most longevity, out-of-this-world miraculous events, spontaneity, unspeakable joy, and peace that surpasses all understanding, we’ll look boldly towards heaven and receive grace and mercy to continue the race. All the while, happily proclaiming to Abba Father, “Let thine will be done!”

Nikki D



Making Every Scene Your Scene

Now I was the queen of the phrase, “That’s just not my scene”; and rightfully so in many instances. However, I discovered a secret that forever changed my life. I can make any scene my scene. How, by simply promising myself that wherever I am, whether in a stuffy room of borderline pharisaical Christians, or in a crowd of anything-goes-willy-nilliy free spirits, I would have a great time. And as a result, I transferred this social lesson into my lifestyle.

I found my happy medium and truly embody the words of Paul when he said “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11 NIV). It wasn’t that his circumstances morphed or that his “ideal world” was now present; no, Paul’s outlook on life itself changed. He discovered that life is comprised of more than dwelling on routine or happenstance. Paul understood that the secret to activating joy in every aspect of his existence was proper perspective.

Now, when I find myself in less than desirable situations, or in the company of those who are not necessarily “my cup of tea”, I remember Paul’s message. I willingly decide to make a glorious occasion out of every situation. Whether I break up the boring monotony of a lackluster conversation with a corny joke, that only I get, or sing songs of praise in the midst of utter sorrow, I consciously enjoy every moment in my life. Optimism doesn’t necessarily remedy life’s tough scenes, but it sure does help the time go by! And like the adage goes, “time flies when you’re having fun!”

So, enjoy every scene in your life regardless of how mundane or awful it may seem at any particular moment. Make it your own, and you’ll realize just how great God’s Spirit is residing within you. The joy of salvation is our strength! Therefore, live, laugh, love, and make every scene your scene!

Peace Out Home Skillets!

Nikki D

BREAKING NEWS: Boaz is Officially Off the Market!

After an interesting telephone conversation with my sister, we jointly discovered a phenomenon plaguing Christian woman. This epidemic which, I’ll dub “Boaz Obsession”, for naming purposes, is one that I have noticed hinders rather than helps women “locate” mates. Now, for those already scratching their heads, I suggest you head on over to your Bible and read the book of Ruth. It is here that you will find the peculiar love story that so many women long to reenact in their own lives. There have been, however, a vast number of misinterpretations of this romantic account that have left women striving for a man who was officially off the market by the close of the story.

What I gather from most conversations among Christian women is that they are itching to get married. I, myself, was once one of these very women who strived to capture the attention of “My Boaz”, while pretending to glean in a field near his. However, I came to the startling reality that I was doing everything that Ruth did not do to garner the attention of Boaz. First of all, Ruth was not trying to catch a man in the field, per say, when she went out to glean behind the other workers. Nope. Ruth was simply, trying to help the poor household of her mother-in-law Naomi. They were both coping with huge tragedies, and they needed food and money. Ruth saw it as her duty to help out; period.

However comma but, what many Christian women do is dress up, spray on smell good, and then travel out into the field with the intention of nabbing Boaz’s attention. Now don’t get me wrong a pulled together woman who smells good will get attention; and not only from Boaz but, from all the other field hands as well! What these women fail to realize is that their attempts read desperate in the eyes of a discerning potential mate. No man, especially Christian men, wants to feel like he is being forced or trapped into courting a woman. Men like to feel like the whole idea of dating and courting was their own idea. (SN: That’s men for ya! lol) But, the moment men sense that women are coming on too strong they retreat, or try to see what they can get, and then retreat. Now, the latter doesn’t apply to Christian men (wink) because they know better than to take advantage of people!

The second observation I made among searching Ruth’s is that their entire lifestyle becomes centered around preparing themselves for a man. Their career choice, education, style, conversation; EVERYTHING that they eat, breathe, and sleep is with the hopes that Boaz will find them appealing. It’s quite repulsive (yes I said it!), if you ask me. I have watched many a woman lose herself and God’s mission for her life, in order to score the affection of Joe Smoe because he thought she was cute. Don’t get me wrong, from personal experience, I understand the allure of receiving attention from the opposite sex. Every woman wants to know that her efforts are not going unnoticed. But, when your “man catching” efforts shape your livelihood—Houston we have a problem!

So, let’s set the record straight today! Number One: Boaz is off the market, He was Ruth’s man. So stop saying that you are waiting on Boaz! Number Two: Take your longing for a mate to the throne and not to the streets ladies. Desperation, regardless of how pretty her dress, is never a good look! Number Three: Get to work ladies! Ruth came in contact with Boaz because she was concentrating on the mission set before her; she needed to eat! Therefore, whatever tasks, duties, or goals God has placed before you, do them. And once you get busy about your Father’s business, He won’t withhold from you the desires of your heart.

I pray that this helps someone refocus her energies and pursue the things that really matter. Because at the end of the day, when you meet your Maker He won’t ask, “So what did you and Boaz do for the Kingdom?” No, God will want to know what your efforts for His Kingdom were. And you’ll want to have a better answer then, “Well, I got dressed up real nice so my Boaz could find me—”

Get a life ladies—literally!

I have nothing but love for ya!

Nikki D