FOLLOW JESUS

WHAT MATTERS

3/31/2015

Dr. C. Branker

Over 2000 years ago, as the week begun; He knew His time was getting closer to fulfill His purpose on earth. He had already made His triumph entry into Jerusalem riding upon the back of a colt, with the cheerful sounds of hosanna from an exciting crowd.

The cheers and shouts were about to end as the days progressed. 

Accusations, prejudice, lies, threats, evil planning were brewing against Him from every circle.

The celebrated messiah of the masses, will soon be declared a betrayer and criminal.

God's plan for your life, will not always be accepted by the crowd that follow you.

But Keep on loving Him.

Dr. C. Branker.

BE YOURSELF, LOVE STRANGERS

WHAT MATTERS

3/20/2015

Dr. C. Branker

In my experience, communicating the good news was not dependent on my oratorical ability, nor someone giving me a special introduction; but my integration with the locals. Understanding their culture and lifestyle was more effective than a method of pre- planned approach and lecture.

I once climbed a tree to get a fruit in a poor village, but got stuck and couldn't descend without help. The young men and women laughed at my dilemma as they gathered under the tree watching this stranger stucked in a tree.  It wasn't long before I got their help to come down. 

As soon as I got down, I started to talk about a man who got stuck in a tree in the bible.

I shared the story of Zacchaeus who got stuck in a sycamore tree because he wanted to see Jesus. The people of that little village in Antigua, heard the good news and attended the meetings where lives were transformed that evening. The next day I rode donkeys with the Young men of the village.

Be yourself and love strangers, your message could be interesting to others.

Dr. C. Branker.

FAIL TO WIN

FAIL TO WIN

BE AN OVERCOMER

WHAT MATTERS

3/19/2015

Dr. C. Branker

The philosophy of disqualifying someone due to a failure, was never a good thing.

I cannot remember how many times I failed algebra, but I remember how many times my teacher told me that I was too smart. NEVER!!

Failure became an enemy, as a flop. Millions of people around the world are so afraid of failure.

This kind of thinking is a big mistake; failure should be treated as a friend.

Your reaction to failure determines what you do with it. If you treat your failure as a foe, for example, you'll hide it.

Whenever you fail in a certain area, you'll want to get out of that area, whatever it is --- a job, a marriage, a relationship, even a hobby. I stayed away from algebra for many years.

If you treat your failure as a foe, you will take your mistakes too seriously. You'll be ridden with anxiety. Every mistake will be a life-or- death situation. On the other hand, if you can see failure as a friend, a helper, then you'll react positively to it. GO FOR IT!

Dr. C. Branker.

     

ALL POWERFUL AND FULL OF WISDOM

WHAT MATTERS

3/18/2015

Dr. C. Branker

The Earth and Universe was  created by the one who is All Powerful and Full of Wisdom.

Stars and planets, oceans and forest, huge mountains and valleys with rivers and great water falls are only a few sights that stuns and confound humanity.

The depths of the deep blue are filled with living sea creatures of every kind; some of which we depend on daily for food.

The master created keeps us revolving in an orbit that is perfect for sustaining our well-being and survival. Winter, spring, summer and fall, are our treasured seasons and His orchestrated plan. A Sun to warm us and maintain life in every form. A Moon to regulate gravity and light the dark places. Of all mankind inventions, none is from nothing; everything requires substance, form and design. But God created all things out of nothing.

Job 38:"Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand".

Dr. C. Branker

FORGIVENESS IS OF GOD

WHAT MATTERS

3/17/2015

Dr. C. Branker

I meet  many different kinds of people any given week. Ever so often, I run into a person who is bitter. Bitterness is a serious condition of the heart. It is unforgiveness marinated.  

Usually a person who didn't use the grace of God to forgive an offender is a bitter individual.

Bitterness is a root which springs up in the heart and cause defilement. Forgiveness guards against bitterness. It is important to forgive as quickly as possible, sometimes before confronting the offender; or not confronting at all. Everybody should practice a lifestyle of quickly forgiving those who offend you. It is the wisdom of God, and His grace is ever present.

Allowing bitterness to grow, is to close the door of the heart from the Holy Spirit willingness to purge and set free.

Hebrews 12:12-17.

Dr. C. Branker.

Rewire your brain

OWHAT MATTERS

3/16/2015

Dr. C. Branker.

Of all the things we treasure in life, Peace of mind is not usually at the top of the list for many people.

Man's computer the  (brain), is never unplugged  nor discharged. The brain functions constantly, even when we are asleep. Every animal you can think of -- mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, amphibians -- has a brain. But the human brain is unique. Although it's not the largest, it gives us the power to speak, imagine and problem solve. It is truly an amazing organ.

The brain performs an incredible number of tasks including the following:

• It controls body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate and breathing.
• It accepts a flood of information about the world around you from your various senses (seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting and touching).
• It handles your physical movement when walking, talking, standing or sitting.
• It lets you think, dream, reason and experience emotions. All of these tasks are coordinated, controlled and regulated by an organ that is about the size of a small head of cauliflower. Neuroscience says we can relax and rewire the brain by how we think.
• Philippians 4:8  "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things
• Have a peaceful day

Dr. C. Branker.

SHOUT FOR JOY

WHAT MATTERS

3/13/2015

Dr. C. Branker

 What ever makes you joyful, deserves a shout. We read of so many historical events where people shout for joy and happiness. Whether the ending of a war and solders returning home from battle, or a new born baby is born, that brought shouts of joy in the streets of many cities and villages in time past. Today we see few cities shouting for joy. 

Qatar shouted for joy, when they heard the news they were selected for the next World Cup. Usually a victory of a sporting event will bring that shout to a community. Everyone needs to express joy and happiness.

Joy represents strength, courage and pleasure.

Here in the U.S., the Declaration of Independence, states that "we are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." This was penned in 1776. Since then we have been pursuing happiness as a nation.

Individually, we should set goals for the things that will make us joyful. When they are accomplished, don't forget to shout for joy. Don't just wait for graduation or buying a new house or car, but practice shouting for joy for the little things.

The world is full of sadness and hopelessness and it is not getting better.

Remember the scriptures Psalms 118:24 "This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it".

Nehemiah 8:10. Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." HAVE A SHOUTING JOYFUL DAY.

Dr. C. Branker

LOVE TRUTH

WHAT MATTERS

3/12/2015

Dr. C. Branker.

Sometimes you cannot share the truth with the people you love. It takes time and patience to open a closed mind.

Truth is the key that unlocks a blinded mind. When we love Truth, we are constantly free from the pressure that harnesses and hinder maturity. So many people live trapped in their world of disillusionment and fray as their means of self- protection.

Learn to love truth, for truth only makes one free. Examine yourself, your personality when it comes to facing truth.

Jesus told His disciples " I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.

However when He the Spirit of truth has come, He will guide you into all truth. St. John 16:12.

Dr. C. Branker.

ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY

WHAT MATTERS

3/11/2015

Dr. C. Branker

Everyday is a perfectly created day. There are really no bad days.

The dawning and  ending of each day is filled with beauty, joy and hope.

Each day brings new opportunities, growth, experiences which takes us closer to fulfilling our purposes. 

Each day, some people celebrate a birthday, anniversary or something special. Someone goes on vacation, to the beach, or a planned journey across the highways. Yes, we may have some not so good memories of past incidences, but it was never a bad day. 

New flowers display their beauty, colors and fragrance. Bees and birds fly buzzing and singing from branch to branch enjoying the new day.

The snow, the rain, the cold, the heat; they all contribute to a perfect day.

The day is blessed because the Lord has created it.....REJOICE!

Dr. C. Branker

FISHING IN GHANA AFRICA

BE FEARLESS

WHAT MATTERS

Dr. C. Branker

3/10/2015

 Fear is the the only emotion that can threaten the things we care about the most.

Fear may occur in response to a specific stimulus happening in the present, or to a future situation, which is perceived as risk to health or life, status, power, security, or in the case of humans wealth or anything held valuable.

 A noun "fear" can be used in three ways with different meanings: fear is a strong, uncontrollable and unpleasant emotion caused by actual or perceived danger.

We make decisions every day motivated by the spirit of fear. What we do, where we go, how we get there, when we need to get back, and so on.

Fear restricts our ability to stand and perform our duties. Fear intimidates and humiliates people who are well trained and able to accomplish their assignments.  Our Heavenly Father did not infuse us with a spirit of fear, His love for us is much greater.

 For  God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

 2 Timothy 1:7. Go ahead today with confidence, relax in God's word and overcome your fears.

Dr. C. Branker.

GOD FEEDS EVERY CREATURE

 WHAT MATTERS

3/9/2015

Dr. C. Branker

So many times we awake to a new day, with only the thoughts that concern and consume us.

Whether it is an appointment, off to work, or the daily ritual of duties. We hustle about trying to fix every thing before the day is ended.

Some of God's creatures seek His presence, while many others rush to fulfill obligations.

"Man goes out to work and to his labor until the evening". Psalm 104:23 NKJV.

The scriptures tell us, that the lions look to Him for food, and He feeds every one of them. 

God goes to the depths of the oceans where they all wait for Him to be fed. He opens His hand and they are all filled with good.

Let's us look to Him as our God. He is our maker. All that we need is in the palm of His hand.

Be at peace today and be assured, He cares for all His creation.

GOD IS SO GREAT

WHAT MATTERS

3/6/2015

Dr. C. Branker

Today is a day to Praise the Lord for His greatness and declare His power.

His work we see daily, deserves our acknowledging with Shouts and Praise.

The seas and waves roaring constantly since He made it; the Sun and the Moon!

Psalm 66: 1-10 

Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands:

2 Sing forth the honor of his name: make his praise glorious.

3 Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

4 All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah.

5 Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men.

6 He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.

7 He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.

8 O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard:

9 Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved.

10 For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.

Dr. C. Branker.

FREE YOUR MIND AND LIVE

WHAT MATTERS

3/5/2015

Dr. C. Branker

Pain and anguish can control your life, unless healing takes place. 

The persistent fear of a situation in which the sufferer commits to great lengths in avoiding, is a mental prison.

Sato lives by the sea but doesn't trust it. The tsunami of March 11th 2011, stole close to 20,000 people.

The tsunami has left him deeply conflicted about the ocean, whose bounty has sustained his family since at least his great-grandfather. The sea has also become the cruel thief that stole everything from him and the last link to what he has lost.

"To tell you the truth, I want to get away from the sea,'' he says. ``But at the same time, I am not able to leave this ocean that swallowed my mother and wife. If their bodies are found, it will bring some closure. As long as they remain missing, I don't want to leave this place.''

He lives on top of a hill barely existing from day to day. Jesus heals and transforms minds.Sato doesn't have to live like this.  This is my prayer for him.

Dr. C. Branker.

JOY IN DANCING

WHAT MATTERS

3/4/2015

Dr. C. Branker.

I recently met a couple from Cali Colombia who knew each other for fourteen years.

They seem to be madly in love with each other as they fell in love only four months ago. They are planning to get married in December, and  all signs show that they are a happy couple. As they were telling me of their plans to get married on the beach, I inquired about their readiness to be joined together as husband and wife. They explained to me that they are so compatible because they do not allow work nor anything else to get in the way of them dancing. That's right, they spend more time dancing than anything else.

I was surprised for a minute, but they both being Colombian; I understood.

Just imagine being in love, and spending a lot of time dancing and holding each other.

I congratulated the couple, and wished them God's continual blessings.

Dancing with your lover can only cement your relationship for a happy life.

Every couple should dance more as they go through life daily.

Dr. C. Branker.

DON'T WORRY

WHAT MATTERS

3/2/2015

Dr. C. Branker

To worry, is not good for anybody. The word worry means, to annoy, bother, harass, vex, etc.

Worrying is not positive force, but destructive. You can become physically sick, weak and eventually from worrying.

Proverbs 12:25 says worry in the heart of a man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad. 

We are surrounded by bad news and negativity all day long. People are worried about everything. Their children, home, jobs, finances, health, retirement, etc. 

My mom recently told me this about worry. " Why worry and die? If you worry you die, if you don't worry you die so why die from worrying"?

The scripture tells us in Matthew chapter 6, that we should not worry about anything, because worrying wouldn't fix any problems, but we should trust God.

Dr. C. Branker.

LIFT UP YOUR HEADS.....REJOICE

WHAT MATTERS

3/2/2015

Dr. C. Branker

But when these things begin to come to pass, look up, and lift up your heads; because your redemption draweth nigh. Luke 21:28.

These are the words of Jesus as He answered questions concerning the end of times. 

We are already living in the days Jesus said would come, all the signs He predicted are here. There are more earthquakes daily around the world than we realize, more famines, pestilences, wars and threat of wars between nations, more persecutions of the Saints, and more signs in the heavens.

We are reminded in the scriptures, to "Lift Up Our Heads" and look for our Redemption.

Even though bad and evil things would be present, this is the sign of redemption for the church of Jesus Christ. REJOICE!!!!!

Dr. C. Branker.