My Book Report (Chapter 21): Every Day A Friday

Smile, and the World Smiles with You

I want to laugh more and stress less. Here’s a joke. Two monkeys were playing but one fell into the water below. The one still dry laughed and laughed, but the wet one, was laughing even harder. The dry one says “what’s so funny, you’re the one that’s wet!” The wet one said, “yeah that’s true, but there’s a cougar behind you... Bon appétit”

“BAPTISM”: What does it mean to you?!

Thought about getting baptized? Want to get baptized? Click here to register.

Beloved, as I wrote this post to inspire and encourage you to go forward with that decision of getting baptized, and what baptism means to me, I had to include this post from a sister of mine. I call her FUNK, but she’s known as Heather Palacios. Check out what this FUNKy chick wrote on Baptism... CLICK HERE and drive on by to HER page.


Baptism means doing the UNthinkABLE.

My Book Report (Chapter 13): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Thirteen

Can you believe it?! Every time I read a chapter out of Joel Osteen’s Every Day A Friday I think it's the best chapter and then I read the very next chapter, and it seems to outdo the previous one. What I realized last night (being Sunday May 6, 2012) and today! Is that we aren't to be in competition with anyone. We are simply to run our race the best way we can, to be the best we can be.

Every chapter seems to get better but not every chapter is competing with the previous or the one that is to follow. No! They were all created for one purpose. To show and help anyone who will read them understand themselves and their God-given potential by coming to understand that God is for them and not against them.

Chapter thirteen has been an exciting reminder and revelation to me, my life and my outlook. I was reminded that if I get caught up in what someone else is doing or accomplishing, I won't realize what I'm able to do and get accomplished. And here's the revelation! Anytime we compete with anyone else, we are really in competition with God. For God outlines a person’s abilities. As it’s written, “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them.” (Romans 12:6 NKJV).
Therefore, who of us can compete and win against the Creator of the Universe?!

I must confess a great pleasure and later an agonizing pain I have experienced. When I first started to walk with the Lord and learn and experience many great things from Him, I came to a cross roads. I saw many things I had in common with the apostle Paul, and I looked up to the Lord in tears and and said to Him, “Am I to be Paul.”

Something dawned on me now. As I progressed from that day nearly three years ago, God never gave me a definitive answer to my question, but He told me along a path that would start to define who I am. Through 3 years of extensive reflection, many falls and many moments of the Lord picking me up and allowing me to pick myself up, I have conclusive facts of who I am. I'm Flavio— a child of Almighty God. No more and no less.

I am me. I am blessed to be me. I am blessed to know God and continually blessed to experience Him in every area of my life. I am me!

There's no one like me. There's no one who can be the best at being me other than me. I may not be as good at many things than others, but I am able, empowered and anointed by God to be the very best Flavio I can be. That isn't just fine with me, that's a relief! Thank you my God!

I know what it is to be in competition with God, with others as well as myself. It's terrible. It's agonizing. It's a lose - lose situation. Therefore, I am recommitting, refocusing, and re-energized to run my race!



My Takeaway:

In a race the runner need not worry about others, but run their race. When the runner decides to look to their left, right or to look back, that's when they stop running their race and start to compete. When it's a competition there's always an approaching risk of failure and defeat. But running your own race will always secure and result in Victory!

Here's God's encouraging word to me, that I share with you all: Keep your eyes forward on the goal and you'll far exceed your own expectations in running YOUR race.

As always...YOU ARE LOVED.

My Book Report (Chapter 14): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Fourteen

As the plug slips away from the socket, the light flickers and suddenly it becomes dark... What happened?! The right connection became no more as the plug and source of power, were no longer connected as one.

Beloved, today I come to you to share some insight into, "Connecting With The Right People." In chapter fourteen of Joel Osteen's Everyday A Friday, it made me explore a very personal look into my faith walk with the Lord as God illuminated the way through Joel's words.

As I read this chapter, I was reminded and encouraged of how God is. I too, like many, have received a word from God as a deposited promise for my life both current and for the future. In other words, God's promise towards my destiny. The Lord spoke to me concerning My life being a life of servitude. Concerning me "not being a rich man but a thankful man." Concerning me being called into ministry. Concerning the wife that is for me.

Not only has God exemplified in my life that He will never leave me, forget me or abandon me, but also, that His Word to me is His very promise and although others may abandon me, forget about me, and their word vanishes not to remain a promise to me, that in this world, all will vanish but the Lord's Word to me (to all of creation) will by no means disappear. Amen.

I am thankful to God just as Joel says, 'that I and God are a majority' because it has been proven over and over again to me. Others say no, but God said yes! Others could not see the vision, but God opened my eyes to see from His view of things. Doubt tried to settle in, yet His voice spoke encouragement into me. When a sea of despair was before me, the presence of the Almighty parted the doom & gloom and made a way for me to remain untouched by it. Amen!

Joel shares, "If you remove the negative people from your life, God will bring positive people into it." There may be many obstacles, and many people along the way who simply DO NOT have your best interest in mind, but as the Lord Jesus set the example for us, let us all clear out what isn't an encouragement to us, and is trying to keep us from pursuing, experiencing and accomplishing our God-given destiny. Amen. Joel further shares, "Do not waste time with people who don't value your gifts or appreciate what you have to offer. That's casting your pearls before swine." We all need to conceal what is holy, and surround ourselves with the right people. Not having an inner circle of friends and confidants may very well be what's keeping both you and I from pursuing, experiencing, and accomplishing something that will leave a lasting legacy and fulfill our God-given destiny.



My Takeaway:

Only what God has ordained and anointed for our lives will connect with the dream; the promise, that He deposited within us to start moving, come to life and see the light of day. Amen. 


Here's my prayer:


Father God, thank you for Your Word. A lasting promise to stand forever that You indeed have a plan that is not to harm us, but to give us a hope and future. Father, how amazing You truly are! May You help us O Father, to choose wisely those who we let in our lives, and those who we need to remove from our lives. That we may see the destiny we have in You become a reality and a blessing to You, to us and to all. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.


Beloved, as always...YOU ARE LOVED.

My Book Report (Chapter 12): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Twelve

Don't you just loooove when someone approves of you? Your outfit, your body, your work, your home, your car, your spouse, even the kind of scent your perfume or cologne has. It makes you feel good. It makes you feel loved. It makes you feel valuable— someone who carries worth in the eyes of others.

There's something to approval. It can be dangerously appealing. It can cause us to invest ourselves completely into what others say or think about us. In essence we buy into their willingness to shake there heads up and down in approval at our lives.

Why is this a very dangerous thing? When we have invested everything into others and we decide to do something else, say something unlike we said before, even change the way we act and what we believe in, those who once approved start to disapprove and we don't see a return on our investment. All we're left with is an empty heart depleted and void of everything because we gave it all to those who no longer care to be for us but now are against us.

In Chapter 12 of Every Day A Friday, Joel speaks about not being people pleasers who are with us one moment and the next they're against us; they leave us...as if they forgotten we exist.

The very title of this chapter already gave away what it's about without me even sharing with you all the above. It's titled, “Don't Live for the Approval of Others.” 

I have known what it is to have God speak to me and place a big dream in my heart that He is asking me to walk away from other things, then He can build me up for the amazing things He has in store for me. But those who were for me as long as I did what they thought was best, we're now against me. 

Joel speaks many times about how it was to transition from his father leading the church in Lakewood, TX to Joel leading it after his dad went to be with the Lord. Many people were with him, but there were a few who were against him, or wanted to tell him how to lead the church, how to do ministry, etc... Joel even says that one man actually told him ‘you're making a big mistake. And I just want to let you know if you move the church, I'm not following.’

Sadly, this man wasn't willing to understand and stand with Joel with the big dream God had placed into his heart and was building Joel up for. This is inevitable, just as it was with Jesus and HIS VERY OWN Family and close Confidant . Although at times we may have the best intentions and often times not so much, just as Jesus' family and close friend, we too, may experience others not agreeing with what God has called us to do and other times, people may very well not understand our God-given destiny. But, let not this misunderstanding deteriorate your resolve to bring glory, honor and praise to God in doing as He has called you to accomplish. Amen. 



My Takeaway:

If God is calling you to something bigger and better, know that it is He who has approved you, and as long as the Creator of the universe approves of you, you will be alright. Praise God Almighty that we have His approval which stands forever in Christ Jesus. As it says in His Word, ‘I will not leave you nor forsake you’ and again ‘Be strong and courageous for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.’ Amen! 

Thank you Lord!

As always...YOU ARE LOVED.

My Book Report (Chapter 11): Every Day a Friday

Chapter Eleven

Hola mi amigos...LOL. I thought it would be awesome to start out with a Spanish introduction. For those who are not familiar with the Spanish language, let me translate: Hello my friends. I hope all is well and you are experiencing and desiring God to do amazing things in your lives. We may never meet one another, but I pray over all my blog posts and for every heart, set of eyes, ears, hands and feet that will see, receive and share these words from my heart that comes from God's loving heart to be blessed. Amen. Always know that in Christ Jesus, you have Someone who is praying for you and desires the best for you. YOU ARE LOVED.

Alright! Which chapter we're on? Oh yeah... Chapter 11 "Living Without Crutches." If there was ever a chapter that challenged me it is chapter eleven. Today is May 4, 2012 and I read chapter 11 yesterday, but   you'll be reading this some time in June. How crazy is that?! I chuckle to myself now as I write this blog at my local Starbucks and I know I'm stalling. Why? Because my thoughts on chapter 11 are no longer fresh and I do not want to read the chapter again, but thanks be to God who uses all people in extraordinary ways, whether we know this or not to be a blessing to others. So with that said, I know God is going to hit a grand slam with this post as well. Amen. Okay Lord, do Your thing.

Chapter eleven, was a chapter that tested me. It caused me to ask myself questions that are hard for me to answer. Based on the title of the chapter in bold italics in the above paragraph, I heard a voice deep within me say to me to ask these questions to myself and to be honest when answering them. Here are those questions: 

What is a crutch to you Flavio? 

Are there any long term crutches in your life?

I'm not going to share to much about what Joel wrote in this chapter, but rather, I will share with you all some crutches I have had, experienced and witnessed along the way. For myself, and bear with me, I am being transparent before you so don't be quick to judge but quick to listen and have compassion on me. I have been a person who in his boredom has took to eating. Much of my weight gain has been due to this. I have known what it is to have family there to bail me out of trouble, and yes, having family to help out in times of need or trouble is a great thing, but if I become too comfortable with that help I will be crippling myself as I won't know how to find a solution on my own or know how to work through problems. I have also experience the crutch of relationships with the opposite sex. A crutch comes in many forms and if we're not careful we can find ourselves a cripple, not in the traditional sense, but practically unable to do for ourselves because we rely fully on others. 

With that being said, let me share some definitions that Joel shared about the word crutch. "A crutch is a temporary tool we use for walking following an injury to a leg or foot. Once the injury is healed, we put the crutch away and walk on our own. The word crutch is also used to describe something or someone we may rely on short-term to help us get through a period of challenge. The term takes on a bad connotation, though, when used to describe something that we've become unnecessarily dependent upon, usually to the detriment of our physical, mental, or emotional progress.

A crutch is supposed to be temporary, just until we heal, or until we can get by on our own. It's not supposed to be permanent, even when our crutch is someone important to us. One of the hardest things to accept is that not everyone is meant to be in our lives forever. Some people are meant to be with you for the long-term, of course- your spouse, your children, your siblings, your parents, and your closest friends. But then there are those God brings across your path for a season, maybe a mentor, a teacher, or a guide of some sort to help you through a certain stage of life or a difficult time."

I have struggled with the above. Sometimes it's hard to let go of others, even when it's apparent that the time you had together is clearly over. That's when heartache and pain set in and before you know it, love becomes hate and eventually indifference where the relationship becomes irreparable. Sometimes people leave our lives. Whether a friendship, a romantic relationship, a co-worker, boss, even someone we did ministry with. As Joel shares, If God didn't move them away, we would become too dependent. Instead of helping us, they would hinder us. Their presence might limit our growth. 

Joel also shares, that we 'have to be big enough to recognize when someone's part in our life story is over.' I believe this is paramount in having a healthy lifestyle. As I have been blessed by God to receive such advice early in my walk with Him, I pass it along to you. 'Everyone that comes into your life will always be a blessing to you whether you realize it then or later. They will either be in your life, "for a day, a season or a lifetime."' 

I will share two more things I believed were a great blessing in this chapter to share with you all. I will list them as bullet points. Why? Because I think bullet points are cool.

• I've learned this: God will always bring the right people into your life, but you have to let the wrong people walk away. The right people will never show up if you don't clear out the wrong people.

• (This one is from a great story in the Bible about a man named Gideon, which takes place in Judges 6-7. Feel free to read up on Gideon's lesson and blessing and how from 32,000 soldiers God took it down to 300 and Gideon experienced victory by God's guidance and promises.) Whether we believe it's all about the quantity that secures us victory, with God, it's about quality. It's not important how many you have on your side. What is important is having the right people on your side. 

My Takeaway:

Being a crutch or having a crutch for a short amount of time is a blessing from God. Long term crutches in any sense hinder us from becoming all that God has created us to become. But, having the right people in our lives is not a dime a dozen. It's not about the quantity but the quality of relationships we forged over time in our lives that will matter most. Only when we surround ourselves with those who will invest in our lives to the point they are giving more than they are taking, that is when we'll experience growth that will surpass all our expectations. In that! We will give all the glory to God. Amen.

A quick prayer. Father God, thank you for doing Your thing in this blog. You totally hit a grand slam...as always. Help us to choose the right people and let go of the wrong. Help us to rise above our crutch and rely on You to get us to where You have us to go. We thank You and give You all the glory and praise. In Jesus name. Amen.

As always...YOU ARE LOVED.

My Book Report (Chapter 10): Every Day A Friday

Chapter 10

How should I open up this chapter of My Book Report? Oh, I know! I'll ask God to bless you and allow you to see those very words of blessing.

Father and God, thank you for all the millions of readers that will take in these words. I thank you Lord for their lives. I thank you my God that they were born. I thank you for what you will do in their lives.  Thank you for their eyes, their ears, their hearts, their minds, their hands and their feet. I thank you for all of this as I ask you to bless all of them. May these words not escape their eyes, and may they not allow these words to escape the eyes of their families, friends, and co-workers. Thank you my God for hearing my words and moving in me to bless them, in Jesus name. Amen

That's a blessed opening, and now I want to share with all your precious hearts what I learned from chapter ten of Joel Osteen's "Every Day A Friday." Chapter ten is titled "You Can Have the Last Laugh." The title is intriguing. Isn't it?! Right off the back, the title makes me think of not so nice things. People getting revenge on others. Witnessing people scheming and plotting to repay back people evil for the evil they have done to them. Even a saying I have heard a few times. "You want to get back at someone, become rich." I don't think money may be an answer of retaliation as it may very well cause others to hate you, and envy you even more. That may seem well and good with others, but not with me. I'm not here to rub anything in any one's face, but I am here to show that a life lived to honor God, will result in God honoring you despite those who look to bring you down, and according to God's Word, God will make it that your critics (those who want you to fail) will see how blessed YOU ARE. Amen.

In reading chapter ten Joel took me on a journey throughout the Bible. I went to the books of Deuteronomy, Romans, 1 Samuel, Psalm, Proverbs, and Genesis. It was amazing. A thrill ride that doesn't leave you dizzy but with the treasury of your heart overflowing and spilling over. Amen. Joel goes on to advise us that although in life we may very well encounter dealings with critics, naysayers, backbiters, backstabbers, those who are jealous and who say we'll never make it, we who believe and receive God through Christ Jesus can be assured that God will give those individuals a clear view of our table of blessing. Joel goes on to say, that God will make sure those individuals will see us promoted, honored, and accomplished. 

The above words are summed up from these Two Verses, and they are evident blessings that are direct results of someone who trusts, believes and lives out these Two Verses. 

As I read chapter ten, it had me reflecting on one key moment in my walk with the Lord. Very early in my walk, the Lord asked me to leave a position I had great comfort and influence in. Three years exactly at a particular company, and in the last year of those three years, things really started to go well for me. I had peace with my bosses, my co-workers and I truly enjoyed my work. 

Although leaving seemed absolutely crazy as I received good pay, had great benefits and seniority, the Lord said this to me repeatedly, "If you don't leave, you'll miss out on the blessing I have for you." Even others in the Lord and those close to me said I was wrong to leave and that wasn't what God said to me. 

Sometimes, it could take years for someone to come up to you and congratulate you, but the Word of God says, "..let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up." (Galatians 6:9 NLT). 

My takeaway: 

For me in my life and the clear and concise way the Lord has spoken to me translates into this: Although it'll probably be some time before others can see the good work God is doing in my life, it may very well be the Lord building me up, and as I grow in the Lord, in due time what He first said to me will finally be made known to everyone else. Amen.

God is a promise keeper. It may not happen the way we want or expect, but be assured and at peace that it WILL happen. Amen.

As always...YOU ARE LOVED.

My Book Report (Chapter 9): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Nine

Whoa baby! Chapter nine is amazing. You definitely need to get this book. I must say, by far this is my favorite book. I am pumped to share what God placed into my heart to share with all of you wonderful people.

Let me start by sharing something I am not particularly proud of... I have been a major complainer in my life. Yup! One excuse after another has been the name of the game when it has come to failing to reach my goals in life. I'm working on this. But here's some good news for myself and anyone who may share in this way of thinking, doing and living. What we may consider to be a disadvantage, shortcoming, or liability in our lives, God sees it as an advantage. An opportunity for God's glory to be made known, seen and shared with others. Amen, Lord Jesus!

That's right! God never calls anyone who has it all figured out. He doesn't call someone who thinks they're the bombdiggity.com God doesn't call those who walk around thinking they're big and bad, all that and a bag of chips. No certainly not! God calls those who are humble at heart. Those who would be quick to say that they aren't the right man or woman for the job, the task or the challenge. In fact, God loves an underdog. God loves a challenge. God loves when the odds are stacked up. God, wants to move mountains before us, take down fierce lions that roar at us, and split the opposition in two right before our eyes. Yes! That is our great God! C'mon somebody...Can I get an Amen?!

The title of chapter nine is, "A No-Excuses Life" and the challenge is this! Will we as individuals gain a right perspective on our lives, on the shortcomings we have, and look to God to help us use it to the best of our ability to impact this world for the good? That's a challenge alright. A challenge, that will only get accomplished if we look to God to help us, inspire us, encourage us, and lead us to that very purpose and calling we all have.

Joel shares so many wonderful things in this chapter. It would be presumptuous of me to say that chapter nine is the best chapter thus far. Especially when there's 27 chapters in total. But I'll say this. This is a must read chapter.

Here's something that many of us get hung up on. I am not talented enough. If you are anything like me, the words highlighted here are a bold reality in our thought process. We see ourselves as not tall enough. Too short. having the wrong upbringing. lacking the intelligence, the strength, the ability, the courage, the know how to get anything accomplished. I know I have. But once again, here's the good news. God made you exactly as you are. God didn't form you and say, Man! I messed that one up, oh well. No! God created you exactly the way you are, specific for the life you would experience, and absolutely gifted you with everything you need to accomplish what He purposed you for. Isn't that reassuring?! But many of you are saying, 'That is good and all, but you don't know my situation.' That is true. I don't know your situation. But God does. If we all will look to God, he will awaken in us the very talents, gifts, and skill set we already have and sharpen them in order to be used to make a difference in this world. But first! You and I need to understand and be willing to thank God for who He is, what He's done and everything He will do in and through our lives. Even if that situation we're praying to be removed never gets answered. This is tough, but God is Sovereign, faithful and just. He will always make a way if we're willing to follow Him.

Joel shares a story of a man by the name of Tony Melendez. Joel writes, Tony was born without any arms. (Now there's a roadblock if any.) But Tony, as a little boy had a desire to play the guitar. Something inside said, You're supposed to sing and write music. Tony didn't know any better. He could have said, "Too bad for me. I'd love to play the guitar, but I don't have any arms." Instead, his attitude was, I may not have any arms, but I do have feet. I may not have any fingers, but I do have ten toes. 


Tony learned to play the guitar with his feet. Joel goes on to share that Tony can play the guitar better with his feet than most people play with their hands. Something occurred to me as I was reading this chapter. God is in the business of amazingly using ordinary and seemingly handicap people to do extraordinary things. Joel goes on to share some other stories with people who had genuine handicaps, but those handicaps were used to their advantage, but I want to share one last story. This story took place thousands of years ago. We can read it in the Bible in Luke 19:1-10. It's a story of a man who seemingly had two handicaps working against him. His height and his reputation. This story is a friendly reminder that God notices our so-called "disadvantages" and wants to reward us, when we don't allow them to get in our way of having God very much a part of our lives. Amen.




My Takeaway:

When we're called to do something of significance; something extraordinary by God, although we're humbled and excited by it, we tend to respond with this attitude, 'how can lil' oh me accomplish this?' God responds, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." I want to do myself a favor, and you're welcomed to do the same... Trust and allow God to show up and show out! He never fails to disappoint. Amen.

As always...YOU ARE LOVED.

My Book Report (Chapter 7): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Seven

Today is April 5, 2012. I'm including the date on this particular post as what I will share with you in this paragraph took place today, and not the day you will read this. Just me being thoughtful, that's all. This chapter was one that I didn't read through completely in one sitting. It actually took me several days to read through it. Not because I'm a slow reader, but because of many factors, but I tell you this! I'm glad It took the time it did, as it was a confirmation to me from another post I wrote earlier in the morning (in which you can see by clicking HERE), and a conversation I had earlier in the morning with my girl friend over the stresses of this world and how they can overwhelm us but the good news of how the circumstances of this world do not affect God, who is Jehovah Jireh; The Lord Our Provider. Amen.

I don't know about you, but I'm amazed at how God pieces everything together. Only someone who believes in God and the Salvation received only through His Son Jesus, can understand what I'm saying. So know that I'll be praying if you don't already know Jesus, by the end of this read, you will! Here's another place where you can experience that in your own personal time (PLEASE ENTER THIS PLACE OF BLESSING HERE.)

Getting back to Every Day A Friday in this chapter Joel gives many practical ways to "Know What To Ignore." Knowing what to ignore isn't as easily done as said. It all boils down to choosing our battles wisely. Something I'm steadily learning. Please pray for me on that. That word battle, makes knowing what to ignore something that will hurt you, right? Battles do cause and create pain. But I believe more importantly we can see from this word, that battles also are fought for something. If we are choosing our battles wisely, then it's safe to say we are choosing wisely what rewards will come from those battles. That's exactly what Joel suggests. He says we should ask ourselves when we are going to enter into battle, "Are the battles I'm engaged in worth fighting? Do they have any rewards? Are they furthering me toward my God-given destiny?"


Many things in life have the potential to be seen as a battle. The question both you and I have to ask ourselves is this: Will I enter into this battle to settle to injure and be injured, or am I wisely choosing this battle because the rewards far exceed everything else?


My Takeaway:


In knowing what to ignore and what to engage, shows great integrity on your behalf. It shows that you choose your battles wisely, and lead out by example. Choosing your battles wisely isn't easy. It takes practice. It takes a heart that desires to be of peace. It takes a problem solver by being a solution giver...It takes a peacemaker.

Father, thank You for a Spirit of peace, that leads to so many other blessings. Give us the strength to endure all challenges with peace and a good attitude. In Jesus name, Amen.

My Book Report (Chapter 6): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Six
“An Attitude of Gratitude is not a catchy slogan. It's an untapped resource.” – F. Lugo

I am amazed! I repeat I am amazed! How amazing it is to receive such wonderful blessings from words in a book. Words on a screen. Words delivered through a social networking site. Words from someone who cares. When these words are filled with goodness. When these words are uplifting, and never aimed to bring you down, I write to you all, be amazed! And thank God!


Chapter six from those words above you can probably put together in your amazing mind that it's a chapter that will have you thankful and amazed. By the way did you know one of my favorite words in the English dictionary is Awesome! Why do I let you know that? Because the word amazing is AWESOME!


"The Right Perspective" would be an awesome way to describe chapter six. In fact, that's the title of chapter 6: "The Right Perspective." Throughout this chapter there is one underlining truth that is amazingly awesome. We are so blessed, the mere fact that all of us at some point or another think we aren't blessed is staggering. Therefore, let me take the initiative and let you in on a little secret. I have often thought I wasn't as blessed as I should have. Are you in shock? I hope you are, because chances are high, you too, have thought, felt and expressed in your life more than once that you were not blessed. Maybe you didn't use those exact words, but maybe these sound more familiar,"Nothing good ever happens to me," or better yet, "Why me?"


Here's a little snippet of something Joel mentioned, shedding light on The Right Perspective to have in his book Every Day A Friday. "I read recently that more than a million people die every single week. Think about it. You made it another week! You're better off than a million people. You can thank God you're alive."  (Here) is where you can find some sobering statistics.  


Joel goes on to share this as well, "The article also said that if you have a roof over your head, you are better off than 75 percent of the world's population. And if you have fifteen dollars to your name, you are in the top 8 percent of the world's wealthiest people- fifteen dollars!"


How's that for the right perspective? There is so much to be thankful for, and as Joel shared a great exercise to gain the right perspective, I share it all with you. Make a list of everything God has blessed you with, and by the end of it, you'll have gained The Right Perspective.


Here's a bit of direction for you when writing your list. Joel mentions a man who complained he had 'no good shoes,' then he met a man without feet. In that very moment and from then on, that man had The Right Perspective.



My Takeaway:

The Right Perspective comes from the heart that praises and thanks God. The more I praise God the less I see room to complain. If I develop a spirit of continual thanks and praise to God while meditating on His goodness, I wont have time to focus on what's wrong or to complain about what I don't have or what I can't do, because I'll be to grateful to God for what I DO have and what I CAN do. Just as King David wrote, and knew the secret to The Right Perspective, I share this secret with you. "I WILL bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth." (Psalm 34:1 AMP) and apparently the apostle Paul knew this secret as well, as he wrote, 'give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.' (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)




Beloved, I leave you with these words. They are my words to God as soon as I finished reading chapter six and reflecting on His goodness in my life.

Father, I want to apologize for not appreciating everything I have been blessed with as if it were the first time I received it. Thank you for your friendly reminders. Thank you for personalities like Joel Osteen. Thank you that the smiling saints belonging to your kingdom have been here on earth gracing us with their demeanor and amazing perspective. Help me to always have The Right Perspective. Amazed by You, my God!

My Book Report (Chapter 5): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Five

"Enjoy The Journey." These words are synonymous with anything that puts a smile on our faces and contentment in our hearts. But why do so many of us fail to experience a life that would have those words as a banner of accomplishment in all our endeavors? One word- Busy. 


As I read chapter five of Every Day A Friday by Joel Osteen, I was amazed to be reminded of something so simple I shouldn't have to be reminded of it. That's to stop and smell the roses. Joel shares many incidences were he was caught up on the excitement and grandeur that is, to be busy. Yet Joel is quick to inform us of a lesson to be learned in every moment he passed on enjoying his journey for being busy. That although being goal-oriented is a good thing, never allow it to supersede spending time with those of whom matter most as they are here one day and gone the next. Joel further displays that sentiment by these words from the Bible, 'you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. (James 4:14 NIV). There is one thing I desire more than anything for my life. That is to experience it with enjoyment.


My Takeaway:

I myself am extremely guilty of looking to be so busy to feel as if I accomplished something, that I just blow right past the roses and trample them underfoot. Enjoying life should be easy but our unwillingness to slow down and our stubborn willingness to speed up has made enjoyment something to work hard at. If what we're doing is wrong, let's do the opposite.

Beloved, I am not the worlds smartest man, or the worlds most handsome man. I do not have tremendous influence on many and I make a ton of mistakes. But this one thing I know. Unless you and I desire enjoyment in our lives, we won't experience it. As chapter five is so appropriately titled, as I started with them, I'll leave you with these words...Enjoy The Journey.


As always...YOU ARE LOVED

Emergency Post: Hope Filled Words

Reflecting Me

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11 NKV)


For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV)


For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)


For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. (Jeremiah 29:11 Amplified)




Today as I was talking with God, the verse above came to mind and it was shown to me in a whole new way. I have always heard this verse used in the context of the Good things God has in store for those who believe in Him. Today, as I shared some things that were scaring me with my Father in heaven, yet saying to God, "I will continue to place my hope in you," God shared this with me. 'Hope comes from what my Son Jesus did on the Cross for you, and for all others that would place their faith and lives in His hands, and my ability to always keep my Word.'


Then God shared His promise and declaration to all who have placed that trust in Him, with me, in which you see in the above verse in scripture in red. Those thoughts, those plans of hope for our futures; for our expected end God said comes through only One person- His one and only Son Jesus. 


As I thought of what God spoke into my heart, I started to see that verse in a whole different way. I saw those words of Truth from God Himself as a road map. A map that not only leads to Jesus at the Cross, but beyond that, through Jesus' resurrection. I saw that my hope does lie in Jesus Himself, and not only my hope, but my dreams for today and for tomorrow. That very future that I along with countless others, always want to be bright and filled with amazing and exciting things. 


But as I included four different translations I am reminded of how intentional God is. Those four translations aren't meant to confuse us at all. Nope! They're meant to point out the obvious. What is that obvious?! We all have different perspectives, and God is willing to speak to each and every one of us personally. How amazing is that?!


So, as I wrap this amazing blessing that God gave to me, to not only enjoy and experience the treasury of my heart grow, but also, to share it with all of you. Nothing I receive from God will ever be of worth unless I share it. That's the true gift that keeps on giving...a willing heart. 


God bless you all, with a prosperous future through an expectant hope for a wonderful outcome. In Jesus name, Amen.

My Book Report (Chapter 3): Every Day A Friday

Chapter Three

I'm absolutely thrilled to be writing a book report on this amazing book. Joel Osteen hits the matter of the heart in this chapter. "Express Your Joy" is the title and I believe the very essence of making the most of every moment. In joy we can witness great turnarounds in a person's life. I've heard others say, "I won't let them steal my joy," and I too have uttered such words in many situations, and I'm sure many more situations will arise to keep my joy and better yet! Share my joy.

Not to sound to prolific but joy is a building block for character. It certainly is needed in dealing with challenging people. I'm sure a raise of hands is warranted right now in how many people want to experience joy when dealing with knuckleheads (did I just write that?). Joel points out something interesting. He refers to a verse in scripture that speaks to joy being a great and thick fragrance if you will. "God has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions." (Hebrews 1:9 NKJV). Now this verse is speaking of Jesus Himself but it's the very blessing we all can have in Jesus. Such is to say that Joel was onto something when he used this verse. We too, can have an aroma that is inviting and doesn't fade away if we as Christ are anointed with joy (gladness). That's an amazing and descriptive way of showing how joy is something sweet to the senses. Amen.

Here's a quote my day was blessed with. "Joy is the serious business of Heaven." - (CS Lewis). To that, I have witnessed, experienced and modeled these very words. "Modeling Heaven doesn't start in heaven. It starts everywhere your joy is seen." - (F. Lugo)


Although chapter 3 has much more to share, I'll leave it up to you to purchase this book for yourselves and enjoy the blessings that it holds.



My Takeaway:

Joy is something that is contagious. Sometimes the best way to reach someone is to share the joy you have. Just like a water well, many times people will need to work at experiencing joy, but just as a geyser, others have joy that's seen from afar and it's explosive!


Beloved, I leave you with these final words the Lord just put into my heart to share with you in closing. Although it's a challenging principle, it's worth praying and believing, God will work it into you that you may not lack it at all. "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, ³ knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. ⁴ But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." (James 1:2-4 NKJV)




As always...YOU ARE LOVED.

A Beautiful Attitude (Part 8): Persecuted Righteousness

"Persecuted Righteousness many have suffered, but few know of it. In unveiling the Truth many lives will be forever changed. Do you know the Truth? His name is Jesus." - F. Lugo

Wow! This post is bitter sweet. I have come to the end of the words God shared with me concerning the Beatitudes in which the man, Jesus of Nazareth spoke to a great multitude. The Beatitudes is the amazing introduction to the greatest sermon ever preached: The Sermon on the Mount

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven."(Matthew 5:10 NKJV)  "Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:11-12 NKJV)

The Beatitudes are staples for good living and the blessings that go along with such a life lived. As we come to the end of this journey called "A Beautiful Attitude" I have experienced and witnessed many blessings in my life and the lives of others. Easter was just a few days ago, and although the day April 8th has came and gone, the everlasting impression it has left behind both now and when the events took place 2000+ years ago remain and continue to shape the lives and eternities of a great many who experience the love of Jesus Christ. Amen.

As I read and reread the verses in scripture above, so many things speak to me. But it's not about me, it's about you. Therefore, what do you think of the above words in scripture. The above words in red. The above words spoken by Jesus to a grand crowd that stood before Him? I prayed an amazing prayer before placing my fingers to the keys of my laptop. I asked God to give me the words to write that would change the lives of a great many forever. I asked God now to not allow these words, this series, this journey called A Beautiful Attitude to escape any eyes, and to lead many to share their thoughts, their insights, their experience with God through these words, even words of encouragement for the author. And as I said it to Him, I say it again...It's in Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Beloved, I am so overwhelmed by the love of God. I am so honored that God would choose me to write about such precious words, that were spoken so long ago and are forever ingrained in the hearts, minds, bodies and souls of a great many. The words are known as the Beatitudes. The speaker and Author is Jesus the Nazarene. And they are located in the Book of Matthew in the Fifth Chapter verses 1-12. It's been a great honor and privilege to receive from the pages of God's heart, as a deposit into my heart, as God's extended hand of friendship to all of your precious hearts. God bless you all.

Beloved, here are the links to the first 7 parts of "A Beautiful Attitude"

PART 1: Poor In Spirit

PART 2: Your Mourning Will Be Comforted

PART 3: Lay It Down

PART 4: A Satisfied Life Is A Righteous Life

PART 5: Show Mercy

PART 6: A Pure Heart

PART 7: Are You A Peacemaker?

A Beautiful Attitude (Part 7): Are You A Peacemaker?

Are you a peacemaker?

Today as I woke up, I contemplated going back to sleep for another hour. As I thought of the upside of resting another hour, I also thought about the downside of losing an hour and going back to a bad habit. This thought came to mind that helped win over the decision to stay up- Writing a book. I have been thinking of writing a book for quite some time but I always had that voice of restlessness saying to me, 'what you have to say, no one wants to hear...c'mon! you barely lived life. You're too young. God and life is a topic you are inexperienced at.' Sadly I have listened to that voice many times. A voice not of peace, but a voice robbing my peace to write what God has been putting in my heart to write. Despite that voice constantly taunting me, I will rise above it. I will say to it, "I am a child of God." Amen.

That leads me to what's in my heart to speak with you about today. The Beatitudes. If you have been going along on this journey with me, you know that today we will see what God had to share with me on this portion of the greatest sermon ever preached- The Sermon on the Mount.

Now the Beatitudes are what? They are staples for good living and the blessings that go along with it.

A Beautiful Attitude is something that is rare in my opinion and even more rare is displaying that beautiful attitude consistently in and through your life. But! I believe there is one thing that will allow you to display a beautiful attitude on a consistent basis, and that is peace. Today's portion of the Beatitudes speaks to that. Let's take a look. Shall we?

"Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God." (Matthew 5:9 NKJV) 

That statement above is so powerful. Wouldn't you agree? Think about that for a moment...peacemakers will be called sons of God. Wow! That's tremendous. Oftentimes, If I'm not sure what to write on yet have the topic; subject already in mind, in specific the verse in scripture that was speaking to me on a particular day or throughout the week, I'd see if there was a referencing verse that went along with it in my study Bible. To my amazement and relief, there was no referenced verse that spoke to the verse in scripture above. Therefore, this thought came to mind. "Flavio, there's no referencing verse because the verse in Matthew 5:9 says it all!"

Being a peacemaker, is just that! Being someone who looks to not create problems, but resolve problems. Someone who doesn't look to gossip or spread gossip, is a peacemaker. Someone who doesn't waste all their time looking to the problem, but being a solution visionary. I myself look to not dwell on problems, but always see the solution. Do I succeed every time? Of course! Actually, I don't but that would be nice. I've been telling my girlfriend as of lately, "I'm the Solution man." You'd be surprised to see that being a peacemaker; in being a solution man/woman, life is much easier. You could say, that being a person of solution and not problem is being someone who is blessed. 

Therefore, look to be of peace. As I have failed at this many times, and experienced the heartache and pain of being all about problems, I wouldn't want you to go down the same road. So in all things, ask God for the wisdom to be a person who sees past the problem towards the solution. Seek to be blessed by being a peacemaker and in turn live life as a child of God in the name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.

Emergency Post: What Does An Apple Have To Do With Your Day?

“Seeing the apple reminds me to never give into compromise” – F. Lugo 

So serious I had to repost. “The devil is a hustler. Trading apples in exchange for paradise. Don't be fooled.” – @lecrae

As I reflect on that, I thought to myself. What would be your apple Flavio?

Not praying?  Not giving thanks to God for all I have?  Not reading His Word daily?  Not attending His house of prayer, worship and praise on a committed basis?  Not serving His house with a committed servants heart?  Not sharing what God is doing in my life with others? Not being an example of Christ to my family and all others? Not living a life that shows that God has done something and is still doing something in and through me?  Having sex before marriage? Looking at things on the Internet, in a magazine, or in a store I don't need to be looking at?  Not honoring my mother?  Not honoring my leaders?  Not obeying the laws of the land and the authority of those laws? Driving recklessly to get somewhere on time?  Thinking, speaking and acting in a selfish manner that brings down others as well as myself?  Not utilizing the gift of money well?  Not taking care of my body or honoring God with it? Will I trust in my own ability or God's?  Will I give into the pressures of unbelievers or trust in God? Not following God to my fullest potential?

These are all temptations– These are apples. These can easily hustle me out of my God destiny to be in paradise forever. What are some of your apples? Click here FOR THE FIRST APPLE STORY

Just like lecrae said...Don’t be fooled! Stay prayed up and in God’s Word. Remember the devil is a roaring lion on the prowl for his next victim. But our God is is greater! Amen.

Beloved, as always...YOU ARE LOVED.