With all that is going on around the world today, this is not a time to be “Playing Church.” There are many Christians who do NOT understand that we are at war, the enemy is winning some very intense battles and people that we love and care about are going to end up in hell. And why is that? I believe that the churches in America are developing halfhearted believers who are more concerned with the outward appearance of spirituality than the inward power of God. The Pastors in most pulpits are more worried about views on social media than they are the souls of those sitting in front of them listening to them give a motivational Ted talk. I challenge you to take a personal inventory and ask yourself, do the qualities of a dedicated disciple of the Lord Jesus agree with you and your lifestyle? As I evaluate my own life I reflect on what is written in *Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish desires, disregard, lose sight of, and forget himself and his own interests] and take up his cross [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [cleave steadfastly to Me, believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].* Charles Spurgeon said, “Discipleship: If persecution should arise, you should be willing to part with all that you possess—with your liberty, with your life itself, for Christ—or you cannot be his disciple.” My intention is not to offend, but it is also not to “Not” offend. I am more concerned about souls than feelings. My Brethren, honestly evaluate yourself, does your life involve loving God outwardly, loving others intentionally, denying yourself, being firm in God’s word, fellowshipping with other believers, being imitators of Christ, dedicated, steadfast, investing in the lives of those in our lost and broken world, and sharing the Good News to non-believers? Or, are you more concerned with earthly desires, pleasure, popularity, fame and fortune? My desire is to have my life be condensed into one statement, one line that marks my life as a true disciple, “I have lived my life to make Christ known.” My question to all who read these words is, does your life reflect true discipleship? If not, today is the day to make it happen. A Christian life, true discipleship, is walking by faith in Christ, living in the Spirit, and resting in the grace of God. May all who read these words desire to be intentional to Sharpen Yourself and Sharpen Others. My BeLoved, may the grace of the Lord Jesus, and the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.