Wednesday, December 21, 2016

ARTIST

WHAT MATTERS

12/21/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

If your life was a canvas, what will the world's greatest artist paint on it?

Will it be just full of colors or many details displaying who you really are?

Well, believe it or not, you are been framed and displayed everyday for others to see in the museum of life by the world's greatest.

 "I will praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

  your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14.

Your thumb prints and saliva are only two lines in the sketch and He is still working on you.

GIVE GOD PRAISE.

www.artostoday.com


Tuesday, December 20, 2016

ACTION REQUIRED

WHAT MATTERS

12/20/2016

Dr. C. Branker

The smallest action is better than the greatest intention.

Some people are always planning to do big things in their lives but never take the time nor give attention to the little things. The need to dream and hope is human, but we just cannot afford to not take the smaller steps.

Every long journey began with a few steps, and the consistency of hoping will be motivated by actions taken towards the goal.

Move forward and push towards your required results, it may be the right time for you now.

www.artostoday.com

DCB.

Monday, December 19, 2016

DISTRACTIONS

WHAT MATTERS

12/19/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Life is full of distractions, and distractions are the enemies of fulfilling your purpose.

So many people fall short of their goals by being distracted.

The brightest student can fall prey to this enemy and destroyer, as we have seen this happen over and over again.

Twenty years of operating a private school from grades 2-12, were punctuated with hours, days and weeks trying to get students to refocus and get back on tract after being distracted.

Everyone will experience distractions, but the choice must be made individually on refocusing. 

Remind yourself of your desired goals and listen to the inner voice of reason.

You can only become who you were created to be and what you were created for.

DCB.


Wednesday, December 7, 2016

ANGER

WHAT MATTERS

12/7/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Anger is a natural human emotion. According to the the dictionary,

Anger or wrath is an intense emotional response. It is an emotion that involves a strong uncomfortable and emotional response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat. 

Anger can occur when a person feels their personal boundaries are being or going to be violated.

It takes a wise person to control anger. It also takes time and experience to master it.

Here is a tip, NEVER GET ANGRY WHEN YOUR PLATE IS FULL OF ISSUES, OR YOU COULD REGRET THAT YOU GOT ANGRY.

www.artostoday.com

DCB.



Monday, December 5, 2016

MEDITATION

WHAT MATTERS

12/5/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Thinking in a positive way, will leave little room for doubting, not letting present trouble determine the outcome.

When we find  truth, we gain courage and the opinion of others does not matter.

Thinking on things that are pure, lovely, honest and good will only strengthen and not make weak.

Meditation is a practice where an individual trains the mind or induces a mode of consciousness, either to realize some benefit or for the mind to simply acknowledge.

Think beyond your troubles, as Christ has given you grace and victory.

www.artostoday.com

DCB.


Friday, December 2, 2016

CHRISTMAS

WHAT MATTERS

12/2/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

The month of December, being the last month in the Julian calendar year, includes spiritually significant days for Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Pagans and Zoroastrians.

Christmas, celebrated generally on December 25 by millions of people around the world. It recognizes the birth of Jesus so it is celebrated as a very happy holiday, because according to Christians, Jesus came to save people’s souls from hell and gain the redemption of the soul. Christmas is a civil holiday in many of the world’s nations is celebrated by an increasing number of non-Christians and is an integral part of the Christmas and holiday season.

BE JOYFUL AS WE CELEBRATE.

www.artostoday.com

DCB.



Thursday, December 1, 2016

PSYCHE

WHAT MATTERS

12/1/2016

Dr. C. Branker

 The Greek root word psyche (soul), pertains to man, who is completely different from any other biological  creatures. 

Therefore, a study of the soul (or spirit) of man  which is known as psychology cannot alleviate his origin. 

In the book of Job, God asked him a series of questions that he could not answer. 

Job was no doubt mesmerized by what he had to endure by the hands of satan.

He was void of understanding, and his thoughts, (soul) was greatly troubled.

Read Job chapter 38.

A good psyche is described in Proverbs 3:5-8 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”

DCB.

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Blessed

WHAT MATTERS

11/30/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Today I started off counting the different flowers around me. 

Red, white, purple, orange, pink and more.  A kind lady also gave me a beautiful plant with flowers. Then I suddenly realize I was counting my blessings. Yes blessings,  as I looked up and saw a blind man crossing the street with his cane and a dog.

Today is not a day to complain for anything. 

Just look around you and count your blessings.

DCB


Tuesday, November 29, 2016

LOVE

WHAT MATTERS

11/29/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Every human being on the planet can experience and respond to the love of God.

This is God's will, and should be the hope of born- again sinners.

The scriptures says,  " For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son". John 3:16.

When you receive His love, share it with others and avoid self- righteousness.

Self-righteousness is a feeling or display of moral superiority derived from a sense that one's beliefs, actions, or affiliations are of greater virtue than those of the average person. Self-righteous individuals are often intolerant of the opinions and behaviors of others. Read Luke 18:9-14.

DCB.


Monday, November 28, 2016

EARTH

WHAT MATTERS

11/28/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Another beautiful day In the journey of life.

Just to think we are on this planet call earth, revolving somewhere in space in a precise  position and perfect orbit. Some may ask, who cares? but the very thought is beyond amazing.

Scientist say we are 92 million miles from the Sun and the Earth completes an orbit every 365 days, plus we are traveling at 66,600 miles per hour and spinning at the same time.

Continue to enjoy the ride, but make sure you get life insurance from Jesus.

YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS.

DCB.

IMG_1719.JPG


Tuesday, November 22, 2016

PROVIDER

WHAT MATTERS

11/22/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Our Heavenly Father prepares all the things in advance, that is necessary to sustain life on planet earth.

He gives sun, moon, rain and seasons in an orderly and consistent fashion, and the end result is food of every kind.

Farmers know when to sow the seeds, and God brings the harvest.

Every season brings a harvest, and every harvest produces life to humanity.

The seas and rivers regenerate new life also as many nets are drawn each day harvesting life to feed us.

2 Corinthians 9: 9-10.

Dr. C. Branker.


Monday, November 21, 2016

GOODNESS

WHAT MATTERS

11/21/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

The Psalmist David wrote many psalms about the goodness of the Lord.

" Oh, how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for those who trust in you".

Ps. 31:19.

"I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living". Ps. 27:13.

There are over 61 other scripture reference to God's goodness.

The psalms wrote these psalms while his enemies were saying evil things against him, including plots for his destruction.

There is hope in God, for all who trust in Him, do not be afraid of flesh and blood.

DCB

Friday, November 18, 2016

FAILURE

WHAT MATTERS

11/18/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Failure will cause you to do your homework.

Most students after a long day at school are really not anxious to dive into the books again to do homework. They do it because of the consequences of not doing it.

As homework was design to increase your skills, so too is FAILURE.

When you fail, you take it home with you, you think about it, you dream about it and you worry about it. 

You will definitely get another shot at it, if it is something you really want, because failing gives many opportunities.

Failure must never be a permanent option, but homework to increase your knowledge and enjoy success.

DCB.

Friday, November 11, 2016

PAINFUL

WHAT MATTERS

11/11/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Hillary Clinton described her lost of the election as painful.

Millions of Americans across the country are feeling the same, as they try of heal from their social pain caused by hurtful words.

Psychological, emotional or social pain can really affect the lives of people in so many different ways, therefore healing is necessary quickly, though some may take longer.

The healing process begins with communication. Yes, words of sincerity, kindness and forgiveness. Words that strengthen and mends. 

If half the body is ill, the whole body cannot function. So too, if half the nation is sick, we cannot function as a whole.

Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

LET THE HEALING BEGIN.

Proverbs 16:24.

DCB. 


Thursday, November 10, 2016

AMERICA

WHAT MATTERS

11/10/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

No where in scriptures plainly states that America is part of the end game among the other nations that are mentioned.

If that be the case, then the USA is subjected  to the same fate with all other nations with perilous times ahead.

The idea that we are a great special nation in God's eyes that will spare us from destruction is simply a false expectation.

We are now hoping to be great again, proves that we have fallen from our past glory, and no nation nor kingdom with that mandate, has accomplished that in history. The Roman Empire, Spain, The British Empire etc.

Russia is a good example, bullying and forcing its way to retrieve Soviet style glory by invading Georgia and Crimea. 

What made us powerful, were the seeds of goodwill and kindness sown towards others around the world, and welcoming strangers to our shores for a better future.

IT IS TIME TO PRAY.

DCB.

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

God Is In Control

WHAT MATTERS

11/9/2016

Dr. C. Branker

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

Excited, Scared, Optimistic and Concerned are the moods of Americans today.

We have a new  president that will lead the nation for the next four years.

Let us pray for the president and all the new leaders who will be part of his government.

Remember God is in control of all things and His will is paramount.

Romans 13:1.  "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God."

DCB.

Monday, November 7, 2016

PURE LOVE

WHAT MATTERS

11/7/2016

Dr. C. Branker

Love is a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend. Yet, love has degrees.

Jesus said " You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind."  And you shall love your neighbor as yourself. Matthew 22: 37&38.

Since Love comes from God, and it is pure, God requires nothing less than pure love from us. In regards to our neighbor we ought to love, as we love ourselves.

This commandment is a challenge to many people, as they struggle with loving themselves. 

There is a tendency to mix human emotions with love, but Love must be pure.

 Let love be without dissimulation, which means hiding under a false appearance Romans 12:9.

When love is pure in the heart, there is no fear.

DCB





Friday, November 4, 2016

TOTAL COMMITMENT

WHAT MATTERS

11/4/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

I heard a story of a farmer with a chicken and a pig who loved him  because he was so good to them.

On the farmer's birthday, the chicken went to the pig and said, "Let's do something special for him," and the pig said, " That's  sounds great, but what can we do?"

The chicken said, Let's serve him breakfast. I'll give him eggs, and you give him the bacon."

The pig said , "Wait a minute. You are only giving an offering, but your' asking total commitment out of me!"

To serve God is self denial and a cross which reminds us that we are not our own, because we were bought with a price of True Commitment. 1 Corinthians 6:20.

God cannot except our spare time.

DCB.


Thursday, November 3, 2016

SOWING

WHAT MATTERS

11/3/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

I was reflecting recently on the pumpkins harvest for 2016.

In 2015 there was a national harvest shortage due to heavy rains and floods. This year, the harvest was plentiful and good, and growers are expecting a bumper crop in 2017. 

They did not quit nor forsake planting pumpkin seeds.

The biblical principle works the same. As the seed of the pumpkin is sown, the harvest will come with many pumpkins.

So to, the seeds of a man are many, they involve the Spirit and the Flesh.

What ever he sows, he will reap. No rain nor floods will alter his crop.

His harvest will produce life or death.

Galatians 6: 7

DCB.


Wednesday, November 2, 2016

AMERICA

WHAT MATTERS

11/2/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Our nation is polarized by the months of preparation for the upcoming election along the lines of race, faith, class, gender, and status.

One candidate advocates 'Greatness Again' which speaks of the good old days, and the other wants 'Togetherness' with a progressive mandate.

The citizens of America are divided by the millions, as they all want what they think is best for their families and themselves.

No political party nor individual, can change the course to better their nation except they go back to what really matters, which is 

CHANGING THE HEART OF THE PEOPLE THROUGH DIVINE INTERVENTION.

2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV.)

If my people, who are called by my name, will humblethemselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

MAY GOD HELP AMERICA!

www.artostoday.com

DCB. 


Tuesday, November 1, 2016

HALLOWEEN



WHAT MATTERS

1/1/2016

Dr. C. Branker

Pumpkins are low in calories, fat, and sodium and high in fiber. They are good sources of Vitamin A, Vitamin B, potassium, protein, and iron

This food is harvested in the fall in large numbers as they are easily grown.

Today in America it is used as a lantern at the front of the house for Halloween.

Halloween was also the festival of Samhain (god of the dead) and was seen as a time when supernatural beings and the souls of the dead, roamed the earth. 

According to the folktale, Stingy Jack invited the Devil to have a drink. Not wanting to pay, he convinced the Devil to turn himself into a coin. However, rather than use the coin to pay for the drinks, Jack kept it for himself. Eventually Jack freed the Devil who promised not to take his soul to Hell. Instead, he gave Jack an ember that he placed in a hollowed-out turnip and carried as he walked the Earth forever.

The carved pumpkin with the lantern signifies the driving away of evil spirits.

Many churches sell pumpkins on their front lawns at this season.

Teach your generation that The Lord sets us free from all spirits and bondage, and it is He who provides our food. Matthew 6:11.

www.artostoday.com

DCB.


Monday, October 31, 2016

GENERATION

WHAT MATTERS

10/31/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Every generation has its own culture, morals and customs. When a generation dies, the same dies with it.

There maybe a remnant from the previous generation in the new, but the new create their own as they please, sometimes letting go of good time tested values.

Generations of the past, were more Godly and religious. They lived and raised their children to honor and serve God. They attended church services regularly. They prayed more and recognized each holy day with reverence.

This generation calls themselves progressive with little recognition of God.

When a generation refuses to acknowledge God, judgement is not far away.

Judges 2:10.

IT IS TIME TO PRAY FOR THIS GENERATION.

DCB.

Friday, October 28, 2016

PEACE /LOVE

WHAT MATTERS

10/28/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

The greatest feeling in life, is to know that there is love all around you.

I know some people rather spend their whole day worrying about stuff they cannot fix, but that is their choice.

Have you ever taken a vacation visiting another place, enjoying the scenery, the beaches and having fun; then all of a sudden it comes to you that the world is not on vacation. You Are.

Well, when you embrace peace and love as treasures, life can be a vacation in difficult times.

There are people in Haiti singing, dancing, laughing and cleaning up after Hurricane Matthew.

Love your friends, families and neighbors.

DCB.


Thursday, October 27, 2016

KINDNESS

WHAT MATTERS

10/27/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

What is desired in a man is kindness.

If men would show kindness all over the world, the world would be healed from many troubles.

Wars, diseases, poverty, hurt, and loneliness will disappear. 

Love and celebration will be constant in the heart and lives of women and children.

Kindness is a behavior marked by ethical characteristics, a pleasant disposition, and concern for others. It is known as a virtue, and recognized as a value in many cultures and religions. (Wikipedia).

SHOW SOME KINDNESS TODAY.

DCB.


Wednesday, October 26, 2016

HIS DAY

WHAT MATTERS

10/26/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

We awoke this morning to another brand new day, first for giving Praise and Thanks to the Lord.

Second, for His purpose being fulfilled in our lives.

The primary purpose is, God is first in everything. Our plans are not the most important thing for this day, even though it might be very necessary for your life.

In all we do, His name will be praised, from the rising of the sun to its setting.

He allow us to live and breathe in this wonderful day He has made.

DCB.


Tuesday, October 25, 2016

HAITI

WHAT MATTERS

10/25/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

My wife and I just returned from a five day trip to Haiti.

To be back at home is a blessing beyond blessings. We have made this trip many times before, but the sober mindedness and the reality of having constant food, water, lights, clothes and transportation should never be taken for granted.

We love Haiti and the people. They are poor, yet rich in gratitude and zeal.

They are innovative, hard-working, and make the best out of little.

We believe that their situation, grants us the opportunity to express our love for God, by sharing our abundance.

Through no choice of their own, the young people of this land must worker harder than any other people, as opportunity is not to distant away, yet so difficult to attain.

God will Intervene shortly. KEEP PRAYING.

www.artostoday.com

DCB.


Thursday, October 20, 2016

HAITI

WHAT MATTERS

10/20/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

One of the most important lessons I have learnt in life is, never let other people define you. 

When people define you, they will decline you.

Your enemies always look for your weaknesses and things that make you vulnerable to their advantage.

The young man from Nazareth, didn't walk around telling everyone who he was nor what his mission was. He kept his purpose in his heart but never revealed himself until his time had come.

To the very end of his life, he asked his friends, "Who do you say I am"? and who do people think I am?.

Continue your mission that is in your heart, and don't let others give their opinions.

DCB

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

HAITI

WHAT MATTERS

3/19/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

I had to readjust my mind visiting Haiti again since the earthquake in 2012.

Port au prince, a city that seems to be overcrowded and hot, is really a challenge to navigate unless you have a guide to take you where you're going.

The street vendors are everywhere merchandising their goods, trying to make a living. At one point it seems like they are buying from each other as I do not see any shoppers, or anyone showing interest of buying anything.

The people are so busy on the streets, that from the outside, you can almost forget that a hurricane past through here a week and a half ago.

Haitians are determined and hard working, yet there is a government that seems laid back and slow to respond to its citizens.

I hope my visit here will inspire and envision some to be hopeful for this great land.

PRAY FOR CHANGE IN HAITI.

DCB


Tuesday, October 18, 2016

POST

WHAT MATTERS

10/18/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Just imagine, if all the people around the world who wake up to post little silly messages on Facebook, Instagram, text, tweets, email etc., were to post a message on Love and Forgiveness; what a beautiful world that would be!

The lack of Love and Forgiveness is what makes people sick psychologically and spiritually.

The need to love and to be loved is the foundation for life and existence, yet so many people struggle to survive without it from day to day.

The sharing of Love and Forgiveness can begin online, It will outlast Zika, Cholera,

HIV/AIDS, Ebola, and any other contagious diseases. 

One person can become infected with a disease and kill millions.

One person can preach a message on hate and affect millions.

One person can preach a message on Love and save millions.

If all the social media people can post Love and Forgiveness daily, 

What A World........WAW.

DCB.


Monday, October 17, 2016

SHOW LOVE

WHAT MATTERS

10/17/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

The power of negative words has affected to many precious lives. 

People all around the world are victims of  hurtful and insulting words spoken to them daily.

A kind word can do a lot of good in to broken heart. If people can practice speaking kind words to others, WE CAN HEAL OUR WORLD!

Instant messaging has become popular with young people because of its speed, ease of use and privacy over the internet.

Let us trend now by speaking kind words, followed by acts of kindness and showing compassion to everyone.

IT IS TIME TO SHOW LOVE, THE GREATEST AND MOST POWERFUL FORCE.

DCB.


Friday, October 14, 2016

WORTHY TO BE PRAISED

WHAT MATTERS

10/14/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

The Lord is worthy to be praised. Psalm 147:3-10

3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 

4 He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. 

5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit. 

6 The LORD sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground. 

7 Sing to the LORD with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. 

8 He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. 

9 He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. 

10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man.

We can put our hope in the Lord because His testimonies are great. From generation to generation His name is praised and His goodness is toward all the inhabitants of the earth. 

LET US CONTINUE TO TRUST HIM IN THIS GENERATION.

DCB.

Thursday, October 13, 2016

GOD FIRST

WHAT MATTERS

10/13/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Cross-bearers were never invited to the cross, but to share the message of the one who died on the cross.

"If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." Matthew 16:24.  Loving the Lord first, will give you life.

There is a glorious reward for those who labor in the service of the Lord. Those who place Him first in their lives.

He promised, that all things that are needed will be added to them who loved Him, and seek The Kingdom first. Matthew 6:33.

Turn Things Around And Put Him First.

DCB.




Wednesday, October 12, 2016

CROSS-BEARERS

WHAT MATTERS

10/12/2016

Dr. C. Branker.

Every day we need to remind ourselves, that we are here to do God's will and not fashion our own lives for ourselves.

Jesus taught His disciples the lesson on the importance of doing the Father's  will and not their own.

He said " Whosoever want to be my disciple must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me". Matthew 6:24.

Perhaps it would have been befitting, if Peter or another disciple was selected to help Jesus carry the cross to Calvary, but that didn't happen. A total stranger from a different country, who was doing his own business was chosen. Simon from Cyrene.

Needless to say, the man's life was totally changed as the mob and the government soldiers marched to Golgotha's hill.

Simon was snatched and forced to carry the cross. 

The purpose for cross-bearers, is that no one can do the work that Jesus did on the cross for the world, but He need cross-bearers to carry the message.

DCB.



Tuesday, October 11, 2016

FREE YOUR MIND

WHAT MATTERS

10/11/2016

Dr. C. Branker

The people in the world who accepts the norm, never fully exercise their full potential.

So many things we enjoy today were design and made by others who did not believe what was design before was good enough. They saw a better and easier product that could make the job easier, so they redesigned it and made better.

The world is full of people who are conformed to the ordinary. People who have a day to day way of thinking of life and things.

Only those who stretch their imagination and think out side the norm, will continue to advance on new ideas and discoveries.

The limitless mindset will continue to change the world and the things we are conformed to.

Free Your Mind.

DCB.