Blog 2023

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We Give You Thanks 6-2-2023

• Our family (Covington and Burnetts) were so blessed to have friends and family who so lovingly supported us during the loss of our dearly beloved Faye Clay (Covington) Valentine.

• Although the song is giving God thanks for what He has done, I do not feel that it is not improper to give thanks to people who have been a blessing in our lives. Jesus, Himself asked this question when He healed ten lepers: So, Jesus answered and said, were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? (Luke 17:17).

• It depends on the way someone looks at it, as to whether someone should be acknowledged for good deeds. The word also tells us if we receive our reward here (from people), then we won’t receive our rewards in heaven.

• Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward (Matthew 6:1-2).

• And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23-24).

Giving Thanks to those who assisted (participated) in Faye’s memorial service

Music

William “Preacha” Ray and Marva McBroom

Arjae Jenkins and Xavier Bell

Prayer, Scripture, Remarks, Acknowledgements

Min. Randy Poole

Sis. Thelma Cheek

Sis. Patricia Norman

Reflective/tribute written by Joannie Burnett (cousin)

Tribute Eulogy – Scott Covington (Faye’s son)

The family thanks everyone who prayed, sent cards, texts, or whatever way you ministered.

We thank Perry J. Brown Funeral Home director and owner, Mr. Charles Coote and his staff for assisting the family.

~ Betty A. Burnett~

In Loving Memory of Faye

Who is Jesus Christ? (Part 2) 5-23-2023

• In continuing with part two of “Who is Jesus Christ” the readers will understand that God’s Word is confirmed by scriptures that connect, support, and relate throughout the Bible. For instance, Jesus being God or part of the Godhead (all equal) which consists of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is written in Genesis 1:2, 26 [God said let us make man…]

• It is confirmed in Colossians 1:15-17, all things were created by Him and by Him all things consist of [made up of by Jesus]. How are all things held together? By the Spirit’s power (Genesis 1:2). Here you have the Triune God working together in creation. God the Father initiated the plan, Jesus the Son carried out the plan, and God the Spirit was and is the power behind everything. No Spirit, no power!

Jesus was identified as being God when He said “I AM”

• Jesus answered, If I honor Myself, My honor is nothing. It is My Father who honors Me, of whom you say that He is your God. Yet you have not known Him, but I know Him. And if I say, I do not know Him, I shall be a liar like you; but I do know Him and keep His word. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.

• Then the Jews said to Him, You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham? Jesus said to them, Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM. Then they took up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them. Wasn’t God the only one to be worshipped? Jesus said it to the devil (Matthew 4:10).

• But wasn’t Jesus worshipped? Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him (Matthew 2:1-2).

• Because Jesus is God, He did not think it robbery to be equal with God: Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

• Therefore, God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name, which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:5-11). The same scripture is also found in Romans 14:11.

You may not do it now or believe it now, but one day every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is LORD!

• Please do not argue with anyone about God’s Word. If one is not open to receive, do like Jesus told His disciples which includes us. And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet (Matthew 10:14).

• Avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth (2 Timothy 2:23-25).

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Who is Jesus Christ? 5-22-2023

• Yesterday, the message was about worshipping Jesus, and the follow-up, however long it takes will prove that Jesus is God in the flesh, or that God came to the earth in the person of His Son. Jesus was one hundred per cent God and one hundred percent human.

• For years I have heard people tell others that the book of John was a good place to start reading the Bible. I would also tell people that, yet I did not understand why until recently.

• In one of the Bible study classes, we are reading the book of John, and it proves what man has tried to disprove (to say it is false) that Jesus is God. In other words, some people say Jesus is not God.

• A little over a week ago, a couple ladies and were talking to a man about Jesus and who He is. The man said, “Jesus was a man.” We quickly changed the conversation to avoid an argument.

• There are many other people, cults and so on who believe that Jesus was a prophet, God’s Son, and so on. However, they don’t believe that Jesus is God in the flesh, or that God came to the earth in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ.

• First of all, the Word of God is proof that Jesus is God regardless of what some others believe. The Word of God says, For what if some did not believe. Will their unbelief make the faithfulness of God without effect? Certainly not! Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar (Romans 3:3-4).

• Let’s go to the Word. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. God said, let us make man in our image and after our likeness (Genesis 1:26a).

• All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made (Colossians 1:15-17).

In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it (John 1:1-5).

• Therefore, I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins (John 8:24). Who was the He Jesus was talking about? He was saying that He was God.

• Although there is another message to be posted about who Jesus is, I want to encourage all readers who are born-again to learn how to witness the Gospel of Jesus Christ effectively.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Lamb of God (Jesus Christ), You are Worthy! 5-21-2023

• Yesterday, I wrote about prayer and praise and how both played a significant part in Paul and Silas’ deliverance (Acts 16:25-26). Today I will continue with Jesus, who is worthy to be praised!

These are the scriptures that I am using today

• And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him (Matthew 2:8).

• After coming into the house, they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11).

• And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “You are certainly God’s Son!” (Matthew 14:33).

• And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him (Matthew 28:9).

• You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, honor, and power; for You have created all things, and for Your pleasure they are and were created (Revelation 4:11).

• Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength, honor, glory, and blessing (Revelation 5:12).

• What about the scripture that says worship God only? Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve (Matthew 4:10).

There will be aa follow-up from the message today about Christ’s deity.

Sunday blessings ~ Betty A. Burnett

Let Everything that has Breath Praise the Lord 5-20-2023

• How about getting some praise today? There is a verse to the song that goes like this: “I love to praise Him, I love to praise His name, I love to praise His holy name”

There are many psalms that talk about praising God.

• In fact, when he was a youngster he played the harp for King Saul. And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him (1 Samuel 16:23).

• I have heard people sing this. “Praise Him in the morning, praise Him at noon , praise Him when the sun goes down.” I am going to take it a little further. God is worthy to be praised all the time, and at any time. From the rising of the sun to its going down, the LORD’s name is to be praised (Psalm 133:3).

Example

• But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loose (Acts 16:25-26).

• These two men of God mixed prayer and praise together and there was a powerful move of God, and a miracle took place.

• Will you consider praising God, even when you don’t feel like it? Paul and Silas were in a situation that could have made them feel down and out, but they chose to praise God in the midst of being locked up and bound in chains.

• Whatever your situation is today, I declare if you start praising God, things will change. Why don’t you try it? I am a witness that it works.

Will you give praise to the Lord God Almighty today?

Ps. I believe the Spirit of God prompted me to write this message because of my experience on yesterday that could have left me feeling down and out, but I am praising God in spite of the situation.

I love to praise the Lord! ~ Betty A. Burnett

Johanna Ballard’s Poem
“Filling My Hollow Soul”

Walking dead with pain, guilt, and sorrow

Always questioning why, it was so,

Only knowing You with the withering ache in my soul.

Always looking for You in that pain, guilt, and strife,

But never looking deep enough to know You through Your eyes.

God, You’ve beside me each moment of each day,

Even as I thought I was alive.

Your heart is bigger than I could fathom, which kept bringing me to fall.

My life became a nuisance, and every time I began to crawl,

I saw myself trying to lead the way, asking for Your forgiveness.

Knowing it was the best for all,

I then felt myself surrender,

understanding I didn’t know it at all.

I called to You so many times saying, I heard no answer.

When I knew deep down inside I felt the need to surrender,

and give up and give You my all.

The power of Your mercy and Your unassuming grace brought a peace and answered prayer to my “hallow soul”

My heart broke open with Your mercy shown wide.

A small black circle gave way with wings out of my soul.

God pieced me back together, and boy do I feel whole.

Thank You for Your wings of grace, underserving I well know.

Johanna Ballard ~ God’s blessings shown

I am grateful for Johanna’s testimony and poetic expressions.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Johanna Ballard’s Testimony 5-18-2023

Introduction

• I met Johanna at Bringhurst Meat Market, during the time Jeff Bringhurst was being interviewed about the story/testimony he was going to share. She agreed to share her story.

• Johanna Ballard was born in Pennsylvania and received her formal education, after which she became an event coordinator. She worked at Crown Plaza, did event planning and finances were included in her education.

• Johanna is the daughter of two Baptist ministers, and she has a twin sister. Being raised properly, somehow she went off on her own, but major problems were still part of her life.

• After her getting back on track with Jesus, major problems were still a part of Johanna’s life. She was a workaholic and a functioning drug addict. During the earlier years when Johanna and her twin sister were together, they were drug buddies off and on as they moved around from place to place.

• Johanna’s addiction began when she was seventeen years old until she was set free nineteen-years later, as Jesus brought her to her knees. At thirty-six years old, Johanna went into a detox center, stayed one month, and walked away clean, never returning to drugs again.

Backtracking – During the years between seventeen and thirty six, Johanna’s addition was heavy on the weekends during her college years, yet she maintained an almost 4.0 average. She used all types of drugs throughout her dependency.

What did all this affect Johanna’s life? There was shame and restlessness-

She felt shame and guilt because of her thoughts of how she could have been a better kid. Shame and guilt for not being good enough, what she was not loved.

Restlessness – She keeps busy so the thoughts of hurts and feeling unloved stop haunting her. Being an employee at Bringhurst has made Johanna feel like she is with family, but that still does not fill the void that has been there since she was a child.

• Here’s a woman who had it all going for herself (so she thought), but God had another place and plan for her. When things took a twist in her life, the world looked down on Johanna, but she finds the greatest joy in knowing God’s will is being done.

• Johanna lived high on the hog and high on drugs, but one day all of it came crashing down. Johanna admits that her life was messed up for years, and it was totally out of control. She admits that if it weren’t for God’s grace, she would be a total wreck. All the illegal things she did, Johanna never went to jail, because God had a destiny for her to fulfill.

• Johanna’s take away from her testimony is, when people think they are at their lowest or at their highest in life, just know that God has the ultimate plan for your life.

• Johanna authored a poem after spending thirty days in rehab, it will be posted tomorrow.

Thank you, Johanna for allowing me to share your story for God’s glory.

Coming tomorrow - Johanna's poem "Filling My Hollow Soul"

Love sharing others’ stories for God’s glory ~ Betty A. Burnett

How the World Views God’s Children 5-17-2023

• Do you ever think about how the world looks at us? Some say we are fanatics; others say we don’t really have a life, or “They ain’t what’s happening” while some may ask “What’s so good about being a Christian?

• There are some who are even saying that hell is more fun, because they think there is a lot of partying going on down there.

• Who are you going to listen to, the people of the world or the Almighty God? Why would anyone want to listen to the creature (Satan) more than the Creator (Romans 1:21-25)- Because their foolish hearts are darkened. How could the thing that was made have more influence than the Creator?

• Hell is a place of torment and that cannot be a fun place. In fact, those who go to hell suffer torment because they are lusting after the things they had strong desires for while they were alive. Their misery will last forever! Tell me, what kind of fun is that?

This is so amazing - I was with a sister yesterday and we were proofreading her upcoming story and the Spirit used her to say what I was trying to find the night before to share in this message.

• A few months ago, while I was watching TV, a man said this during an advertisement, a man was wanting people to join him to keep the religion state free. Quote: “Please join me, I’ve been an atheist my entire life, and as you well know, I don’t mind burning in hell.”[ atheist don’t believe that deities exist]

• When the Word of God says they will be tormented forever, that means they will have total awareness. And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 13:50). No, for “they will have no rest day or night” (Revelation 14:11).

• The man said burning in hell. Isn’t that eternal punishment?

• When foolish people in the world look at us as though we don’t have a great life, they are deceived. I am living my best life! Even though trials, tribulations and persecutions come with the walk of a born again believer, it is nothing compared to living with Jesus throughout eternity.

• The greatest joy that I have is having the assurance of being with Jesus throughout eternity, I have joy when I know that God is pleased with my walk. I have joy in knowing that I can enjoy secular events (not worldly) and still be pleasing to God (1 Timothy 6:17b) [all ungodly things to richly enjoy].

Let’s see what the difference is between secular and worldly

Secular denoting attitudes, activities, or other things that have no religious or spiritual basis.

Example: The Word of God tells how there were sports and other events, festivities, and activities. The Word of God says, If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you (John 15:19).

Worldly of or concerned with material values or ordinary life rather than a spiritual existence.

Example: Going to night clubs, partying, drinking excessively, hanging out with unsaved people, and participating in whatever they are doing.

Heaven is real and so is hell. I don't know about you, but I'm going up yonder (to heaven) to be with my Lord!

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Are Some of God's Children More Special to Him than Others? 5-16-2023

• Yesterday’s post has a connection with today’s message. I thank the readers for encouraging me and writing comments about some of my photos. I also shared how God has kept (preserved) me in spite of all the things I did prior to my new life.

• It was nothing that I did, but by the grace of God, I had been made me new on the inside, and God gave me a make over (new look) on the outside.

• I will always let everybody know that all I am or ever will be, is because of God. This is not bragging: But he who glories, let him glory in the LORD (2 CORINTHIANS 10:17-18). For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends. Did God make me more special? No way! Perhaps God is using me as one of the examples to reveal His glory.

• God kept Sarah looking young and beautiful in her old age. She was so beautiful that the king of Egypt wanted to take her to be his (Genesis, chapter 20). Was Sarah more special to God than other women? Of course not! It was by the Sovereignty of God; He had to choose somebody to be the mother of many nations.

• Why God chooses certain people in life to do certain things is His business. Therefore, whatever one’s positions, titles, affluence, denominations, and so on does not mean that they are more special than others. On the other hand, all of God’s children are special to Him.

• So, if anyone is lifting another person up because of their status, they are wrong and God is displeased. In fact, He tells those in Him who are rich in this world to distribute to the ones who have less (1 Timothy 6:17-19). He tells those who have various gifts and offices to have a servant’s heart.

• On that note, I want to put special emphasis on the children of God when it comes to one being more special than others. Many people put their pastors or other church leaders on a pedestal.

• For instance, they use titles to address certain leaders, which could appear that certain titles hold more weight than others. First of all, ministry is not about a title, it is about serving in whatever capacity one has been called into.

• God calls each person according to the ability He has given them, because He knows what each person is capable of doing. Therefore, we should never belittle ourselves by putting someone on a pedestal. When that happens, what is actually being said is, that person is better than you.

• How do you think the disciples felt when the mother of two of them wanted Jesus to let them sit on each side of Him in His kingdom? The mother of Zebedee’s children (James and John) came to Jesus with her sons. She got down on her knees before Jesus to ask something of Him. He said to her, what do you want? She said, say that my two sons may sit, one at Your right side and one at Your left side, when You are King.

• Jesus said to her, you do not know what you are asking. Are you able to take the suffering that I am about to take? Are you able to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They said, yes, we are able. He said to them, you will suffer as I will suffer. But the places at My right side and at My left side are not Mine to give.

• Whoever My Father says will have those places. The other ten followers heard this. They were angry with the two brothers. Jesus called them to Him and said, you know how the kings of the nations show their power to the people. Important leaders use their power over the people.

• It must not be that way with you. But whoever wants to be great among you, let him care for you. Whoever wants to be first among you, let him be your servant. For the Son of Man came not to be cared for. He came to care for others. He came to give His life so that many could be bought by His blood and made free from the punishment of sin (Matthew 20:20-28).

Are these people that think they are special or being put on a pedestal better or greater than Jesus?

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Greetings to all my wonderful family and friends! 5-15-2023

• I just want to take the time to acknowledge how much I appreciate your readership, support, and encouragement. You have written so many uplifting replies to my messages, the reels and the pictures that are posted on various social media platforms.

• I am not trying to be a show-off, but different pictures are necessary because of the ministry. I will brag about the Lord for how He has preserved me at my age for such a time as this. Another thing is, if you had known me before I was born again and the way I lived, you would brag about God too.

It’s like this, God not only made me new on the inside, He also made me look new on the outside. Nobody could do such an impossible make over but God.

• You have been such a blessing and it motivates me to continue. Every time I get tired and say it’s time to take a break, the Spirit of God gives me that supernatural energy; I get a second wind and ain’t nothing stopping me now - I got that Caleb kind of spirit!

• Again, thanks for all the ways you encourage me. I truly intend to glorify God in whatever I do (1 Corinthians 10:31).

I am also grateful to God for how He has kept (preserved) me.

Blessings!

~ Betty A. Burnett~

"Happy Mother's Day"

You are Priceless!

With Love ~ Betty A. Burnett

“Mother’s Day” 5-14-2023

Remembering the living, and the ones who have passed on. Each one of these women have been instrumental in my life, one way or the other.

“Happy Mother’s Day”

To my aunts (Lorraine Isley and Ophelia Totten), who are still alive and well, praise God!

Honoring my deceased Grandmas

Alice McCain Patrick, Maggie Bell Burnett

Remembering my deceased Aunts

Anna Patrick Herbin, Mary Patrick Owens, Sallie Patrick Owens, Elizabeth Patrick Owens,

Callie Patrick Williamson, Laura Burnett Collins, Hallie Burnett Patterson, Mary Liza Burnett Cobb, Jean Burnett Britton, Irene Burnett Fields,

Aunts in law ( deceased)

Annie Patrick, Mable Patrick, Mary Lee Patrick, Rosa Patrick, Katie Burnett, Rosalyn Burnett

Spiritual Mentors (deceased)

Mrs. Janie Young

Mom Catherine Benson

Sister Doris Nunley

Mother Catherine “Siddy” Steele

“Happy Mother’s Day”

To all my nieces, cousins, and friends

You will never be forgotten~ Betty A. Burnett

Celebrating You Beautiful Queens 5-13-2023

• I do not know of a better time than today, to speak on behalf of God’s daughters. As Stevie Wonder sings “Isn’t She Lovely.” I created a reel and this just a short message to speak to the readers about all my sisters in the family of God.

• We can call ourselves queens, because we are royal daughters of the Most-High God (1 Peter 2:9). Because we are God’s daughters (children), We are heirs of God. And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together (Romans 8:17).

• What an awesome heritage - No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment, You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And their righteousness is from Me, says the LORD. (Isaiah 54:17).

• In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will (Ephesians 1:11).

• We will rule and reign with Christ: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him (2 Timothy 2:12a).

Walk in your blessings, beautiful queens!

• You are lovely - You are wonderful – (Psalm 139:14). You are special (royal) – the called: And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

• You are God’s masterpiece: For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).

• For all of you who are not queens yet, I pray that you will be added to the family of God and become our sisters too.

• Ps. If you are not biological mothers, you have nurtured someone, so “Happy Mother’s Day” to you also.

• Enjoy your Saturday and if it’s the Lord will, and Sunday comes for us “Happy Mother’s Day”

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

“Mother’s Day” Remembering My “Rose” in Spanish Harlem 5-12-2023
Leola

• Although I lived in the Bronx many years ago, and I love to go the city that never sleeps and of course all those bright lights, there is nothing like Harlem.

• During my early adult years, I frequented Harlem, because I was enthused with the Apollo and the Wednesday Matinee Shows were so enjoyable. Small’s Paradise was another favorite place of mine.

• It was years later, after I was born again, the Lord orchestrated circumstances for Leola and me to meet. We bonded immediately and I became a niece to her. This awesome woman became one of the loves of my life. This is the unusual part, Leola lived in Harlem and I resided in Greensboro, but we met in Orrville, Alabama. GOD DID IT!

• Later on, I began to visit her in Harlem, and lodged at her place whenever there was something going on in the area, or whatever else I needed to be in New York for. Leola’s doors were always open wide to me, and we talked on the phone regularly for years.

• No more phone conversations because my “Rose” Leola which had been vibrant, began to droop little by little until the “Rose” drooped completely over and she was gone on February 6, 2023. No more Mother’s Day cards, no more Christmas and birthday cards, no phone conversations, no more staying at her place.

• Spanish Harlem will never be the same to me without my “Rose” Leola. Yet, when I hear the song “There is a Rose in Spanish Harlem,” it is a reminder of Leola whom I will always cherish.

A “Rose" that will never be forgotten ~ Betty A. Burnett

Remembering a “Mother’s Day Carnation” Nancy Burnett Nichols 5-11-2023

• Have ever felt as if you heart had dropped out of your body? It happened to me when my one and only biological sister passed suddenly on February 8, 2009.

• What made it worse was, our mother passed less than a year before my sister passed. At that time in my life the two people that meant the most to me were gone.

• Well, it took some time for me mend from a double loss. However, what helped me most was knowing that they were in the presence of the Lord.

• There is so much that could be said, but today my concentration is on what others and I knew about Nancy. She was known as the “Carnation Lady”

• Since my dearly beloved sister was a lover of carnations, she may not have been what carnations are defined by the world: Renowned globally, these blooms play an essential role in various cultures worldwide.

Yet, in my eyes she was a blessing to many. I believe because God instilled in her the love for carnations and to passionately bless others with carnations, her reward is great (Matthew 25:21, 23)

These carnations are the way I describe my eternal sister

“The Carnation Lady”

• Nancy was a two shaded red carnation – The light red represented friendship and admiration, which was quite befitting of Nancy. She was a friend to many and not only did she show admiration to others, she also was admired for the sharp clothes she wore.

• The dark red carnation expressed sincere love and affection, which Nancy exemplified the Word of God by being kindhearted and affectionate toward others (Romans 12:10a).

• Nancy was a representation of a white carnation or pure love that was evident by the way she gave to others unselfishly, and with a pure heart (Matthew 5:8).

• Nancy was also a pink carnation that symbolized a mother’s love, not a perfect mother in the sight of some people, because nobody is perfect. But in the sight of God, she was perfect because all her imperfections were nailed to the cross and she is now in the presence of the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8).

• My special carnation is gone, but I thank the Lord for the years she bloomed in my life.

• Although she is no longer with me, those precious memories of Nancy still linger, and oh how they flood my soul.

Precious Memories ~ Betty A. Burnett

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Remembering Two Significant Mothers ~ Catherine Patrick Wells & Isabelle Williamson Wade 5-10-2023

•With “Mother’s Day” being celebrated a few days from now, I don’t know of a better time than to write a reflection of two ladies who both had significant roles of being my mother.

Some people say God will give you double for your trouble – the verse is quoted: Now the LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning (Job 42:8a).

• Well, my story was different than Job. During the early years of my life, the Lord blessed me with two mothers; a biological one and a foster mother who cared for and loved me as if I was her own biological child.

• My mother went through some hardships that caused my sister and me to be placed in other homes that were family connected.

• As I remember both of these beautiful women who were mothers indeed, I was doubly blessed to have a mother that never stopped loving her daughters, even though circumstances separated her from them/us. When she was able, we were back in the loving care of our mother.

• In the meantime, my other mother, Isabelle never showed distinction between her biological children and me. As I look back over my life and think things over the Lord has been good to me. There is a purpose for everything and is works out for good to the ones who the called according to God’s purpose (Romans 8:28). The Lord enlarged our families.

• As they say, Give them their flowers while they live. For me, the flowers are remembering how God gave me double flowers of blessings – Catherine and Isabelle

• They both can be considered flowers called hospitality. Isabelle opened her door and heart to me. And later in life my mother was a flower of hospitality by opening her doors to many and providing shelter for them. I believe my mother never forgot how the Lord used Isabelle to open her door and heart to me.

I also thank the Lord for every prayer that both mothers sent up for to Him on my behalf.

• I don’t know of a special flower for these two flowers except hospitality and with that all the beautiful array of flowers perfectly described them.

Always remembering and never forgetting the two flowers of blessings ~ Betty A. Burnett

Remembering Mothers Indeed ~ Grandma Alice 5-9-2023

• This week I want to acknowledge four deceased mothers who were very instrumental in my life. Although there are several other mothers who mentored and encouraged me in my walk with the Lord. Each day will be a story about my relationship with each of them. Also, there is a certain flower that will describe them.

Alice McCain Patrick - my grandmother

• Grandma Alice was the dandelion flower of which she picked from the fields and made wine. I have tasted dandelion wine from various wineries over the years, but they could not compare with Grandma Alice's wine.

• It is possible if she had not been an African American, her recipe could have been patented. There are wineries who make dandelion wine not far from where I live in New Jersey. Even though wine is not considered spirits, like distilled liquor, my Grandma Alice was certainly filled with the Spirit of God.

• Just being around my Grandma was intoxicating. If you ever needed to get high in spirit, all you had to do was go around Grandma. She could really take you on a high with prayers that could be heard throughout the house and heaven too.

• From day one, my Grandma was the greatest light ever in my life. She shone greater than the lights in New York City. When I lived there and was living a riotous life, the first person who came to mind was Grandma and what she would think if she knew about my craziness. That’s how much respect I had for her.

• Later on, in life as a change took place, I realized that Grandma’s prayers did not go unheard or unanswered. I do not believe in receiving other peoples’ mantles, but like Elijah was Elisha’s mentor, Grandma Alice certainly was my mentor. In fact, my mother told me I reminded her of Grandma Alice (her mother).

I know I will never hear her pray again, but memories of her and her prayers will be cherished. And I love the song “If I could hear my mother (grandma) pray again”

Gone but never forgotten ~ Betty A. Burnett

What Does the Word of God Say About His People Wearing Tattoos on Their Bodies? 5-8-2023

• First of all, our bodies are God’s temple, and since we are God’s temple we need to present yourself holy (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). With that being so, why does anyone try to alter or change the way God made them. Our bodies do not belong to us, please don’t say you can do what you want with your body.

• For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10). God made us and He looked in awe at us because we are His masterpieces. In other words, God made the best!

• I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your work [we are unique, no two people are alike]. And that my soul knows very well. (Psalm 139:14). Fear means to be in awe of.

• But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, [us] and He who formed you [us], O Israel [us]: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine (Isaiah 43:1).

• So, God created man in His own image; in the image of God, He created him; male and female He created them (Genesis 1:27). Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So, the evening and the morning were the sixth day (Genesis 1:31a). Didn’t that include man? God had admiration for everything He made.

• Suppose this is the way some of you are remembering a deceased loved one? What does the scripture say about that? You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor any marks [tattoos] on you: I am the LORD (Leviticus 19:28).

• To all born-again believers who wants to change the way God made them. Why are you not satisfied with your awesome bodies that God Himself so meticulously put together in His likeness?

• If there are some defects, and we all have them, it was not God who did it. It is evident that somebody did something to cause it, even if it was generations ago.

You may try to challenge me with, “what about pierced ears and other piercing.”

From the Internet

Ear piercing is mentioned in the Bible in several contexts. The most familiar refers to a Hebrew slave who was to be freed in the seventh year of servitude but declares his love for his master and refuses to go free: “…his master shall take him before God. He shall be brought to the door or the doorpost, and his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall then remain his slave for life” (Exodus 21:6).

“I inquired of her, ‘Whose daughter are you?’…And I put the ring on her nose and the bands on her arm” (Genesis 24:47).

Aaron said to them, Take off the gold rings that are on the ears of your wives…(Exodus 32:2).

I decked you out in finery…I put a ring in your nose, and earrings in your ears…(Ezekiel 16:11. See also Exodus 35:22, Numbers 31:50, Judges 8:24, Isaiah 3:21).

• If you already have these markings (tattoos) on your body, you just have to live with it, but how would you explain it to someone you are trying to minister to. This is reason I stated it that way. I was teaching a class and the people were not saved, but many of them grew up in a Bible reading home, some read the Bible while they were incarcerated. People like that may challenge you.

What would your answer be? I suggest you tell them you did it ignorantly, or before you were saved.

Caution: To anyone who professes to be a child of God, I pray that you will not be influenced by whomever or whatever to have tattoos put on your body. Remember, we are in the world but we are not of the world.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Assembling Together 5-7-2023

• When the Covid-19 Pandemic struck and most people were at a standstill for approximately two years, it also paralyzed the church (house of the Lord). Praise God the doors are open again and I am overjoyed to be able to worship with the saints on a regular basis again.

• I was glad when they said unto me, “Let us go into the house of the LORD (Psalm 122:1). God has always had a place for His people to assembly together and worship Him together in unity (oneness), even in the wilderness.

• Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the LORD, and spoke, saying: I will sing to the LORD, for He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea! The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; He is my God, and I will praise Him; My father’s God, and I will exalt Him (Exodus 15:1-2).

• Solomon built the temple. And, in the eleventh year, in the month of Bul, which is the eighth month, the house was finished in all its details and according to all its plans. So, he was seven years in building it (1 Kings 6:38).

• Jesus was dedicated in the temple. Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (Luke 2:22).

• Jesus taught in the temple. Then Jesus cried out, as He taught in the temple, saying, You both know Me, and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know (John 7:28).

• Jesus cleansed the temple. So, they came to Jerusalem. Then Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in the temple and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves (Mark 11:15).

• The principle of assembling together and worshipping has always been God’s desire for His children. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them (Matthew 18:20). Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another (Hebrews 10:25a).

• My brothers and my sisters let’s be glad to go to church somewhere, whenever your day of assembly is. And for those who so erroneously say “The church is in me,” how can I get inside you? The church is a physical place where we assemble together, and we are the church. If it were not for the body of Christ (the born again believers), there would be no church. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually (1 Corinthians 12:27).

I love to be with God’s people and have that sweet fellowship with them; I am glad to go to the house of the Lord.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Greetings!
Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior

What an awesome day that the Lord has made for us to give Him glory for all the wonderful things He has done in our lives.

Whatever your plans may be, don't for to shine for Jesus, because somebody is watching you.

Consider yourself as a letter that someone reads.

Will they be blessed or turned off because there is nothing to encourage and motivate them to be different. And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3).

How is your letter (you) going to make a different in someone's life if what they read doesn't give them hope?

~ Betty A Burnett~

Jesus Paid Our Debt in Full 5-5-2023

• Many people say what was written in the Old Testament does not apply to us today. These very people have not searched out the scriptures to understand principles and see that there is always a connection from Genesis to Revelation. And the entire Bible is about the “Gospel” or “Good news” of Jesus Christ!

• Others say that tithing was pertaining to crops, etc., but as time went on whatever the increase was is what God required. For those who use the excuse as to why they don’t give tithes, the Lord does not accept it. For instance, “I am not giving my money to the preacher” It needs to be understood that the tithe is to honor God.

• From John McArthur ESV Study Bible - The submission of the Israelites was not to honor the priests, but to honor God.

• Note that Abram gave tithe to Melchizedek and Abram was also blessed by the king (Genesis 14:18-20).

• Nothing has changed when it comes to the Word of God, it’s just that as time moved on, because each generation of people was different. God does not change nor does He lie, so what was planned from the beginning of time has not changed (Malachi 3:6).

• In our time period, money is the resource that is used for our livelihood. After all, money does answer all things (Ecclesiastes 10:19).

• God only accepts what He tells us to do in His Word, no two percent, four percent an etc. Tithing is ten percent. I heard some people say, Paul wrote to on the first day of the week, bring as the Lord has prospered you.

• Two things to take notice of: First day of the week according to the Roman calendar, is Sunday! As the Lord has prospered you means how much you make is how much you have prospered and that is what you are supposed to tithe.

• What about offerings? That is over and above the tithe and I allow the Spirit to show me who to bless with the offerings.

• This is a recent experience of God rebuking the devourer (devil), pertaining what was going on in my life. A few months ago, I was having problems with my twelve-year old truck, and I heard the Spirit tell me that bad fuel was in the tank. I ran the fuel out and have not had a problem since. I did not spend unnecessary money for somebody to take advantage of me.

• A couple of months ago, my computer went totally blank, but I decided not to get rid of it. I don’t know why I held on to it; the Spirit of God had to have been the influence in my decision.

• Last week, I decided to turn the computer on and you won’t believe what happened! To my surprise that old slow computer had been upgraded and with the speed like a new one. I did not think about these two testimonies when the message was being written; it had to be the Spirit of God giving me the recall.

• Don’t tell me that the scripture in Malachi is not for today. Not only did God restore and preserve (rebuke the devourer), but He also continues to open the windows of heaven and He is pouring out blessings in such a way that it is overwhelming (mind-boggling).

• Jesus paid the debt that we owed, now we should show our gratitude by obeying what God has told us to do. We should be in humble submission to God our Father for all He has done for us. We should not have a problem doing what we have been told to do, especially when Jesus gave up His riches in glory and became poor so that we would be rich (2 Corinthians 8:9), so why would any of us hold back what belongs to God. What kind of love is that?

• Last week it was mentioned about stealing from God – robbing Him in tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:8-10). It is a shame and disgrace for anyone to say they are a child of God and do not honor His Word. Actually, it is evil for anyone to twist the Word and make it the way they like.

Tithe and you will be abundantly blessed, not just to get the blessing, but because you love the Lord.

Grateful ~ Betty A. Burnett

Tithing (Honoring- Worship) to the King 5-4-2023

• The principle of tithing has been in place since the beginning of time; it can also be called sowing and reaping. God told Adam to reproduce, multiply and replenish the earth and subdue it (Genesis 1:26-27). Adam was to plant, nurture (cultivate) and whatever was sown would reap (produce) a great harvest. Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it (Genesis 2:15).

• God wanted the best from Cain and Abel, regardless of their different ways of giving to God. He wanted them to give their best (can be called gross or off the top). Honor the LORD with your possessions, and with the first fruits of all your increase; so, your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine (Proverbs 3:9-10). The principle is the same today.

• Many people don’t know that Abram gave his tithes to a king who was symbolic of Jesus Christ. This is called a foreshadow of Jesus, meaning that something would be physically revealed in the future. Melchizedek was a type/shadow of Christ.

• Once Jesus appeared physically, there was need for a shadow (Colossians 2:17). Since Christ was going to be revealed physically in the future, let’s go to Hebrews and compare Melchizedek, the king of Salem with Jesus Christ.

1a) Melchizedek – King of Salem [made like the Son of God abiding a priest forever] (Hebrews 7:1-3).

1b) Christ – King will reign in Jerusalem and sit on the throne of David (Isaiah 9:7, Matthew 19:28a). Jerusalem is the same as Salem where Melchizedek was king.

2a) Abram gave tithes to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-21).

2b) We give our tithes to Jesus Christ our King (Hebrews, chapter 7). It is important to learn principles and when they are understood, we work God’s principles and they work for us [quote from a pastor].

3) Symbolism – Melchizedek/Jesus – Both were kings (soon coming king) and Priests (Hebrews 7:1, 21).

• My brothers and sisters, please stop trying to use excuses for not giving God what He commands from us (bring is a command). Remember this, He is only requiring a portion of the one hundred per cent that He owns.

• Please don’t say you worship the Lord and you choose not to tithe, because tithing is one of the ways we worship Christ. Please don’t say you love the Lord and you are not doing what He tells you to do (John 14:15), that is half-stepping. That is not true worship (John 4:24).

• Please do not honor Jesus with your lips and you are not whole-heartedly giving Him what is required.

Why not surrender all and worship the King.

Tomorrow: The Principle of Tithing [Malachi 3:8-11] – "Jesus Paid it All"

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Future Topics and Testimonials 5-3-2023

Grace and Peace to each of you.

Yesterday, I spent several hours interviewing people who will be sharing their story/testimonial soon. When I hear all the great things the Lord has done in others’ lives, I get excited!

• In the meantime, I will list some of my upcoming topics that I feel the Lord would have me to post. Some are because of questions that have come up or what I hear others say. When I hear certain things, it gives me the impression that others may have the same questions, but they do not ask. Also, when someone is seeking answers, I do whatever is possible to provide them with answers.

• Not that I know it all, but I am known to diligently seek answers. The Word of God says to seek and we shall find answers to whatever is going on in our lives (Matthew 7:11). And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

• My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; In the morning I will direct it to You, And I will look up (Psalm 5:3). Jesus Himself, sought the Father early: Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed (Mark 1:35).

Have you ever heard the song “If Jesus had to pray, what about me?”

• This is a scripture that I have quoted for many years: Call Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things that you do not know (Jeremiah 33:3).

With those scriptures and more, I get answers to what the need is, and especially when it comes to sharing the Word of God.

Upcoming Topics

Tithing

Tattoos

Are some of God's children more special to Him than others?

How the World views God’s children

Are Christians supposed to get bored?

Loving to share others’ stories/testimonials ~ Betty A. Burnett

Secret Societies 5-2-2023

• I had a difficult time posting the message yesterday. I am sure the devil does not want people to be free, but as Jesus said this to the Pharisees about the devil:......He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it (John 8:44).

• A few days ago, the Spirit had me to write about “Some people aren’t who they say they are. Be cautious of the company you keep.” “Get that Monkey off Your Back” is deceptive. I was in awe when certain words were typed in on the Facebook music page and some animations came up that took me way back to the time when I asked my uncle what “riding the goat” meant.

• I am here to tell you that when the name devil was typed in, all kinds of evil came up, as well as the goat of Mendez (Baphomet) and other Freemasonry symbols. It was then that I felt the Spirit of God had taken me in that direction to see some truths and that it was time to write to God’s children who were initiated into any society that they pledged allegiance to that was/is ungodly.

• Since I have never been involved in any society, it is not wise to say certain things like I did in the past, the Lord has perfect timing for everything. I am not trying to prove anything about all that information that was obtained over the years.

• What I am saying is this; if you are in any group where you have aligned yourself with ungodly practices, come from among them (2 Corinthians 6:14-17). Repent and move forward in your walk with the Lord.

• People have joined fraternities and sororities for various reasons; it could because it gives them influence or power; make them feel prestigious or whatever the reason, swearing and taking ungodly oaths will take you further away from God. So, whatever is not of God, needs to be squashed.

From the Internet

Fraternities and sororities are social organizations at North American colleges and universities.

Freemasonry, the teachings and practices of the fraternal (men-only) order of Free and Accepted Masons, the largest worldwide secret society—an oath-bound society, often devoted to fellowship, moral discipline, and mutual assistance, that conceals at least some of its rituals, customs, or activities from the public (secret societies do not necessarily conceal their membership or existence).

• Quoted from the Candidate Syllabus of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority of 1990 (page 30): “The most direct line of descent from Greek societies to America is the Freemasons (called Masons). Historians of American fraternities and sororities trace most of our rituals, ceremonies, and rites to the Masons.

secret society, any of a large range of membership organizations or associations that utilize secret initiations or other rituals and whose members often employ unique oaths, grips (handshakes), or other signs of recognition. Elements of secrecy may vary from a mere password to elaborate rituals, private languages, costumes, and symbols. The term may be applied to such widely divergent groups as U.S. college fraternities and sororities, the Ku Klux Klan, and international Freemasonry as well as to similar phenomena in ancient or precolonial cultures.

Take away from this message: The word secret means (to hide)- not known or seen or not meant to be known or seen by others. To hide something means that it is wrong. If you have been involved in any ungodly practices, Jesus will set you free- “With arms wide open, He’ll pardon (forgive) you.”

Setting the Captives Free ~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Greetings Family and Friends 5-1-2023

Grace and Peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior.

• First, I want to thank all you wonderful friends and family who have supported my readership and said encouraging things to me. Also, for those who have learned some truths that they didn’t know. Your readership has boosted me to take it to another level and it gives me great Joy!

• Being blessed with innovative and creative writing is one of my passions, as you can see. However, it takes much effort and guidance by the Spirit of God to make this ministry a success. Studying the Word of God and searching the internet can be tedious, but because of my passion, it becomes easier.

• Sometimes when I start digging, it is non-stop until I feel the satisfaction of knowing I have obtained what is necessary for that given time.

This is what happened a couple of hours ago.

• I had prepared a message for today and it was quite lengthy. When I got up the Spirit was telling me to give an introduction before posting the pre-planned message.

• As many of you know, I am passionate about people knowing the truth, and sometimes it is a struggle to post messages that I feel will anger or upset someone because they are not open to the truth. This is not to offend; it is for your spiritual eyes to be enlightened.

• Remember this, God is not trying to expose you, He wants to expose the devil’s lies and deception that he has held you in bondage to.

• Many years ago, when I found out how many people in some churches were a part of the secret organizations, I was baffled. I am going even further back when I was a young adult and I would ask my uncle who was a mason, questions pertaining the organization, what they did and what did riding the goat meant. He never told me; he just laughed.

• Later on, in life my curiosity grew, and I began to search for myself. I went to the library and would be in certain bookstores and the Lord placed material in my path. I would talk to people in the church because I thought their involvement in the Freemasons was wrong.

• One person asked me how was able to get Duncan’s Ritual, a book about the initiations and what would happen to the initiate if the secrets of the organization were revealed.

• After I explained some evils that were in the book, it seemed as though I never made any headway. So, I stopped my pursuits. Yet I knew the Lord didn’t just have me to get all that information without there being a purpose.

• After searching out information over the years, I found out there is plenty information that is has been accessible on the internet. In fact, there is so much that it can be confusing. In order not to make it complicated,

I will simply put it like this. If any child of God is involved with or has aligned themselves with ungodly practices such as sworn on an oath of secrecy that is ungodly, please break your ties and get it right with God our Father.

• Coming tomorrow, Lord willing – Fraternities and Sororities (secret societies).

Setting the Captives free ~ Betty A. Burnett

Get that Monkey (Devil) off Your Back! 4-28-2028

• This message is somewhat in conjunction with “Evil Communication Corrupts Good Morals” The difference between the two is one is knowingly being involved with the wrong people, whereas “Get that Monkey off Your Back” is deceptive.

• The image pertaining to this message is the sheep riding on a wolf’s back, with the words on top: "Some people aren’t who they say they are. Be cautious of the company you keep." There was a song back in the day titled “Don’t let the devil ride, if you let him ride, he’ll want to drive” In essence the devil is in control regardless of which way it is. Either way, it depicts someone who is weak and helpless.

• I used to hear this over and over again, “watch your friends because your enemies can’t do you any harm.” That statement is not true because a true friend will never do you any harm. On the other hand, the devil, who is our enemy came to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). We are in warfare with the devils (Ephesians 6:10-18).

• The Word of God also tells us to be aware (watchout) for the devil; he roams about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8).

• The bottom line is the devil uses people to influence through deception. Some people will act like they love you; they say that they will do anything for you, but their motives are impure. Just as Jesus said, These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me (Matthew 15:8),

and Isaiah prophesied: These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught (Isaiah 29:13); they do the same thing today.

• The apostle Paul wrote about someone that did evil against him. Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works (2 Timothy 4:14).

• Sometimes, it’s your own family; that’s what happened to Joseph – his bothers sold him into slavery because of jealousy. Come and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our hand be upon him, for he is our brother and our flesh. And his brothers listened.

• Then Midianite traders passed by; so, the brothers pulled Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. And they took Joseph to Egypt (Genesis 37:27-28).

• David definitely experienced people coming against him. For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; then I could hide from him. But it was you, a man my equal, my companion and my acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together and walked to the house of God in the throng (Psalm 55:12-14).

• Judas walked with Jesus three years and he ended up betraying our Savior. Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Him to them. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. So, he sought how he might conveniently betray Him (Mark 14:10-11).

Watch out for the wolves, they are out to devour/destroy you.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Misusing What Belongs to God 4-27-2023

• Many people hide behind the church (in the closet, doing things in secret) when it comes to adultery/fornication, but when it comes to gambling and hanging out in the nightclubs and bars, they are wide open!

• As I was studying a few days ago, the Spirit of God took me to the book of Joel pertaining to things the nation of Israel was doing which displeased God. I was trying to write a message about people being restored back into fellowship with God when they stopped their evil ways.

• Many of us have used this scripture: And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you (Joel 2:25). We have slung that scripture around loosely, not knowing the history behind it.

History - footnotes from John McArthur’s Study Bible ESV

• With an increased level of intensity, Joel used the metaphor of a locust plague as a backdrop from which to launch an intensified call to repent ….Even in the midst of judgment, opportunity to repent was given. If they would demonstrate genuine repentance, the Lord stood ready to forgive and bless (Joel 2:1-17).

• The remainder of the book is devoted to restoration - physical restoration, spiritual restoration, and national restoration. Israel was called by God, just as we are called by God, but He gets no pleasure in us mismanaging what He has given us stewardship over. We do not have the right to do what we want to do with our bodies or the money God has entrusted to us.

• Our bodies are His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and money does answer all things (Ecclesiastes 10:19), because we need money as our resource for whatever we purchase. However, when it comes to the love of money, that is totally different.

• This is what the love of money is – Ben Franklin bill with, “In God we trust.” Really? Seems to me they are trusting the paper that has the words “In God we trust” on it.

• The bottom line is, we are not trusting God, and when we don’t trust Him as our Provider (Philippians 4:19), we are sinning, because without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). This means we are acting out of our fleshly desires instead of trusting God (Proverbs 3:5-6).

• Although you will not find the word gambling in the Bible, it means to take a risk. Some people are in a hurry to gain money because of greed. Therefore, whoever does it, is not trusting God. They are looking for more than God wants them to have.

• They love money, which is the root of all evil. The Bible tells those who are rich believers that they should help those who don’t have…..(1 Timothy 6:17-19).

• An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning will not be blessed at the end (Proverbs 20:21). Remember this, God owns everything (Psalm 24:1, Psalm 50:10). He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house (Proverbs 15:27).

• Mismanaging what God has entrusted to us, is the same as stealing – taking something that does not belong to you. The principle is the same as it is in the book of Malachi when God told His people they were robbing Him of tithes and offerings (Malachi 3:8-10).

• This is what happens when we repent: You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, who has dealt wondrously with you; and My people shall never be put to shame. Then you shall know that I am in the midst of Israel: I am the LORD your God and there is no other. My people shall never be put to shame (Joel 2:26-27).

• I genuinely believe many of you love the Lord, but because of a lack of teaching, you didn’t understand how serious your walk with the Lord is, and He intends for children to obey Him.

In reading this message today, my prayer is that you will be restored to your place in God (your first love).

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Evil Communication Corrupts Good Morals 4-26-2023

• Evil communication is a broad word and it covers a lot. to come into communion or fellowship, to become a sharer, be made a partner [Greek meaning]. In other words, you are in agreement with what the evil communicators are doing, and you become like them.

• Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits. Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame (1 Corinthians 15:33-34).

• They say birds of a feather flock together - Two can’t walk together unless they agree with each other (Amos 3:3).

• When serious issues or old habits have been in someone’s life most of their life, it is not easy to overcome because the enemy wants to keep us from walking in victory. But thanks be to God we are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus who loved us and gave His life for us (Romans 8:37).

• The best way to overcome is to be with other children of God who can encourage and motivate you to keep moving forward.

• We are called to be different (Matthew 5:16). With that being so, how are we going to have shining lights if we are doing the same things sinners do?

• To be separate does not mean we are not around unsaved people at all. It means to be a light to them wherever God places us in this world (Matthew 28:19-20). That means it could be on your job, in a store, on a street corner, your family, or wherever the door open for you to share God’s goodness.

• Some people who profess to be born-again are not being lights to others, because they are still doing things unsaved people are doing. Don’t get me wrong, all of us still have things going on that we have not been delivered from. However, it should be our hearts desire to grow closer to our Father. That certainly will not happen when one is being influenced by people who are unsaved.

• Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. …. Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord (2 Corinthians 6:14-17).

• What about that foul language that comes out of some peoples’ mouths? Let no corrupt [filthy] word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29).

• Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers [cursers], nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.

BUT!

• And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

• If you have been called into salvation by God (Ephesians 2:8-9), because you are a child of God, you ought to show some sign. In other words, there should be some evidence that you are a child of God. It takes yielding and surrendering to the Holy Spirit and whatever you need to be delivered from - no peace, no joy, Jesus will fix it!

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Drawing Nearer to God? 4-25-2023

• Yesterday’s message was about carnal believers taking the wide road and how many travel that way, opposed to spiritually mature believers who are sold out and they take the narrow path. There is more related to the message that needs to be conveyed to let the children of God know about other carnal/worldly (ungodly) things that are done and some of these people do not have any shame.

• The best way to post the next few messages is to prepare the readers for the messages. Why? Because I believe God’s Word will not return to Him empty (Isaiah 55:11), and it is going to bring conviction (it will convince) some and they will have a change of heart and become “sold out”

There was a time in my own life when I was not drawing nearer to God, but the Holy Spirit kept nudging me until I was convinced that God's way was best. Don't get me wrong; I still miss the mark (1 John 1:8-9), but I am not continually doing the things that sin that so easily beset me (Hebrews 12:1).

• Some may profess to be saved but are not acting as if they are in a relationship with Christ. I am writing to whomever the shoe fits. You either is, or you ain’t. However, if you is, you ain’t acting like no saint.

• I have been waiting for the Lord to reveal to me when the time would be right to post the warning or correction. Some people don’t understand that God sends messages so our hearts can be changed from falling into those same habits that were a part of our lives before we became children of God.

• This is not to hurt us. As a matter of fact, God speaks to us in various ways – He speaks through His Word, through His Spirit, it could be a through billboard sign or any way He chooses to get our attention. He knows what it takes for each of us. The other way God will speak to us is through His prophets, which is usually the last way, and that happens after all the other ways do not work.

• Now, for your information, God does this because He loves us. So please don’t be mad at me. I certainly hope you don’t get upset with God.

God’s Word

• My son [daughter], do not despise [reject] the chastening of the LORD, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the LORD loves He chastens [disciplines, corrects, educates, trains], and scourges every son whom He receives. Scourges - God sending severe pain in the best eternal interests of the believer (see Heb 12:6)

• If you endure chastening , [correction, discipline] God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? (Hebrews 12:5-9)

If you want to draw nearer/closer to God, just don’t just say it, do it!

Obedience is better than sacrifice

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Follow the Right Path, Even if You Walk Alone? 4-24-2023

• A friend sent me an image with “Follow the right path, even if you walk alone” Sometimes it does seem as though we are walking alone, especially when it comes to comparing ourselves with some professed believers who are allowing the world to influence them.

There are two ways we can look at this particular phrase.

In case you think you are the only one that is on the straight and narrow, you are not alone.

1) Queen Jezebel had Elijah the prophet on the run because he was afraid of her and Elijah thought he was the only one who had not bowed to Baal. The Lord said to Elijah - Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him (1 Kings 19:18).

Jesus talked about two ways (Matthew 7:13-14)

2) He told the disciples about the straight gate. Jesus told them to enter in, which meant they were already saved- remember when Jesus told some to follow Him (Matthew 4:19). This needs to be understood, otherwise it will confuse someone.

• What is the straight gate? The ones who follow that path are sold out! They choose to give up any worldly influence; they are committed (faithful). Not many people want to go that way. They have various reasons, one could be: “Walking the straight and narrow is hard”

• He told them broad was the way that leads to destruction. Let’s look at the word destruction- it means to suffer loss. These types of people who are born-again choose to be influenced by worldly things and people. They will lose rewards in heaven because they were not faithful (sold-out).

• This is the way the image is portrayed. But in reality, even those who sell out are not alone, and this is why. The Word of God says, I will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). In addition to that, Jesus said He would be with always until the end of the world (Matthew 28:20).

• This is why we can’t go our feelings. Sometimes it feels like we’re in this walk all by ourselves. Sometimes, we don’t feel the Lord’s presence, but He can’t lie, so put the feelings aside and stand on His truth.

• The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever (Psalm 119:160), Your Word is truth (John 17:17).

• Regardless of what/how you may feel, always remember that you are not alone.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

A Soldier in the Army of the Lord? 4-23-2023

Are you prepared for battle? Got your war clothes on, and ready to win against the enemy?

You must be trained and empowered to fight those forces that are in opposition to you. And who are the forces?

They are definitely not people; you must recognize who the enemy is. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

In order to win the battle, you must understand the strategies of the enemy, therefore it is necessary to go through basic training first. No soldier never goes into battle unprepared.

This is the artillery that a soldier needs, and each piece is absolutely necessary.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might [His empowerment]. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles [ticks] of the devil.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

1) Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth,

2) having put on the breastplate of righteousness,

3) and having shod your feet [readiness] with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

4) above all, taking the shield of faith with which, you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.

5) And take the helmet of salvation,

6) and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

7) praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints

Prepared for war!

Betty A. Burnett

Remembering Dr. Charles Stanley 4-22-2023

• As Dr. Charles Stanley’s body lies in repose today, cherished memories of him will remain in my heart.

• When I opened my email a few days ago and read that Dr. Stanley had passed on to be with the Lord, I felt as though my heart had dropped to my stomach. It took me some time to regain my composure.

Betty’s reflection

• I have followed Dr. Stanley’s ministry for many years; he had a simplistic and practical way of bringing forth his messages. He also was balanced in his teaching, and having been affiliated with several denominational churches, I really was blessed to hear and read his messages with understanding.

• I admired several things about Dr. Stanley, but what stuck out the most was this quote that still resonates with me: “Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him.”

• I also believe when one obeys God, the rewards are great because of their faithfulness.

In loving memory of a man who served well,

Betty A. Burnett

The Bringhurst Family – Testimonial 4-21-2023

• I learned about Bringhurst Meats by word of mouth and was asked to take someone shopping there. Within a few days, my love and taste for their scrumptious meats had an immediate desire to “Go back for more.” And that is exactly what I have been doing!

• When I looked on their website, I was really impressed to see how they are bold in their faith. The Scripture impressed me more than meat. However, they both go hand in hand. From what I observed in talking to Mr. Jeff Bringhurst, their meat was to be about our Father’s business. Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work (John 4:4).

• I noticed that they play Christian music in the store, which is another indication of their boldness. They also give out witnessing tracks, and Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, tracks are placed in the customers’ grocery bags.

• This is Mr. Jeff Bringhurst’s take-away. Wherever God places us, that’s our ministry. He learned that through his company, which was one aspect of the ministry, the Gospel is being shared.

This is how the Bringhurst family contributes to the community.

• offering the freshest meats from regional farms.

• specialty products like grass fed beef and cage-free chicken

• dry-aging our steaks.

• our own award-winning sausage and jerky.

• our famous roasting pigs (available raw, cooked whole, or carved).

• being the hunters’ choice for deer processing.

• our custom processing service.

• catering services for any occasion; made from scratch meals using the freshest ingredients.

• our knowledgeable butchers and excellent service.

Stop in and see why Bringhurst has become a South Jersey institution.

___________________________________

Our Purpose: To give our customers the best products and services that we can, so that our belief that "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men" (Colossians 3:23) will shine through our work and service.

• I am grateful to the Lord for how He orchestrated circumstances for me to form a relationship with the people in this company.

• Thank You, Mr. (Brother) Bringhurst for allowing me to share some of your testimony for God’s glory.

• My takeaway is this: For a business to still be prospering after eighty-seven years, certainly proves that the Lord is in it, and that alone speaks volumes. This is living proof that the Bringhursts did not forget the Lord who caused them to prosper in the natural and spiritual business.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Upcoming Testimonial 4-20-2023

• Before sharing about the Friday blessed testimony, I would like to clear up something that was brought to my attention yesterday pertaining to the message: Flipping the Coin from Children being disobedient to “Fathers do Not Provoke Your Children to Anger," which was really a piggy-back from the message the day before “Respect – Honoring Elders.”

• Sometimes previous messages are not read because some people don’t read the messages every day. With that being so, what seemed to be left out of yesterday’s message was sparing the rod. Yet, in the message the day before, the words sparing the rod was not mentioned, but it was written what my mother would have done to me; she did not spare the rod (Proverbs 13:24).

• Even though spare the rod was not mentioned, that was what it meant.

The animation of the father and child were depicting abuse, which was not meant when the Bible was written, nor is it to be done today.

From the internet

Provoking a child to anger could be abuse. Children are also abused verbally. A parent can as easily overpower a child with words as with physical force. Putting him down with superior arguments or sarcasm can inflict serious harm and provokes him to anger and resentment.

From me:

• Hopefully, this makes it plain and clear for the readers. I certainly do not mind challenges, because it makes me dig more. I am not always correct, but I do put forth my best effort in searching the scriptures and any other resources that are available.

• There are so many people who have awesome testimonies of God’s goodness. As a matter of fact, each of has many stories about certain intervals of our lives. Our lives are just full of stories. I have given different testimonies of certain experiences and will give more as time goes on.

• I have been blessed to interview some locals in the surrounding townships in Camden County and their testimonies as well as others will be posted. It doesn’t matter about your location, because there are various types of technology that the Lord uses to connect us.

• The criterion is, I must have some knowledge of you and if the Lord approves what you would like to share, then so be it.

Contact information:

[email protected]

Text (336) 681-2973

Coming tomorrow, Lord willing – The Bringhurst Family Testimonial

Ps. If God has done anything for you, and He has, “You are a living testimony”

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Flipping the Coin From Children Being Disobedient to Parents, to Fathers Do Not Provoke Your Children to Anger 4-19-2023

• Yesterday, the message was pertaining to respect and honoring parents, along with honoring other elders.

Also mentioned were the consequences that resulted from disrespect were severe.

• On the flip side, the scripture also tells fathers this: And you, fathers, do not provoke [stir up anger in them] your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4).

• In addition to the Ephesians scripture, another book states it like this: Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged (Colossians 3:21).

• Let’s concentrate on training the children in the admonition of the Lord [urging them to choose (turn to) God's best].

Footnotes from John McArthur study Bible on these scriptures

Fathers: The word technically refers to male parents, but also used of parents in general. In the pagan world of Paul’s day, and even in many Jewish households, most fathers ruled their family with rigid and domineering authority. The desires of children and wives were seldom considered.

• The apostle makes clear that a Christian father’s authority over his children does not allow for unreasonable demands and strictures that might drive his children to anger, despair and resentment.

• From me - This needs to be brought to single mothers’ attention: Please do not cause your children to be angry. Everything is not spelled out, but the principal is the same as it is with the fathers.

History repeats itself

• I certainly can attest to what this can do to children. It could cause deeply embedded roots that end up being permanent if it is not confronted and dealt with. Even as a female, I am still being delivered from deeply embedded roots that held me captive (in bondage), as they are being revealed.

Let’s flip again to the footnotes and the history:

• Knowing the language and culture of the people is extremely important. If not, there is confusion.

Example:

• One of my friends is Hispanic and if she speaks to me in her language, since I don’t speak Spanish fluently, I will not understand what she is saying.

• Thank the Lord that everything one needs to know pertaining to life is in God’s Word.

Final note:

• Wisdom is the principal thing, but above all, get understanding. Not understanding history will cause one to miss important facts.

• Thank the Lord that everything one needs to know pertaining to life is in His Word, and that is a fact!

Passing on historical facts!

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Respect – Honoring Elders 4-18-2023

• In piggy backing on yesterday’s message, I loved my mother, my grandmother, my sister, and many more loved ones who have passed on, but as much as I loved them, the first one I want to see is Jesus. In addition to that someone added a comment “I hope we all make it” and my reply was “Only those who belong to Christ, and the truth is, we don’t know who they are.” We should be thankful that we are.

• I am moving on with today’s message that was written before. However, I am led to go another way with it today. This is about respecting people, but especially elders (older people). Although the scripture tells children to honor their parents that their days may be long upon the earth (Ephesians 6:1-3), this is the first commandment with promise (long life). In writing this particular message, it is not limited to parents only. Although you will not find it in the Word of God, the principle is the same.

• Why do you think that back in the day, a community raised a child? The morals were different then. You had better not be disrespectful any older person. Over the years, I have experienced many younger people dishonoring me as an elder, (not just one of the five ministry offices), but an elder in age.

• If whoever is reading this and have been guilty of dishonoring their elders, you are treading on dangerous ground. There are severe consequences to disrespecting elders. Because nothing seems to have happened to those who are guilty, it is by the grace of God that your days are still rolling on. So, please don’t push what some call ‘your luck’ or for me, I say don’t take God’s grace for granted.

• Some things are already happening in certain people, like sickness, and so on. They don’t realize that it is because they dishonored their elders and that they are suffering because of it.

• Even if my momma was wrong, I dare not have disrespected/dishonored her, she would have beaten me to a pulp; definitely no back talk, or I would not have a mouth.

Examples of severe consequences for dishonoring, or having no respect for the elders

• Then he [Elisha] went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up the road, some youths [may have been twenty-years old] came from the city and mocked him, and said to him, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!

• So, he turned around and looked at them and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the LORD. And two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths (2 Kings 2:23-25). This is to caution all of the young people who are dishonoring or being disrespectful to older people. Caution- we do not pronounce curses on people, but blessings in spite of the way we are treated (Matthew 5:44).

• King David’s son Absalom dishonored him and he came to no good end. He conspired against his own father to take David’s kingdom. The handsome and admired son of David whose had long hair was caught in a branch and as he was hanging from the tree, someone stabbed him to death. Despite Absalom coming against his father, David loved him and he mourned over his son’s death (please read 2 Samuel, chapters 16-19).

I am praying for those who have a lack of respect for any and all elders.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Looking Forward to Seeing Your Loved Ones in Heaven? 4-17-2023

• I have been reading and hearing people say they go to heaven because they want to see their loved ones. If all anyone thinks about is seeing their loved ones, that is sad and it reveals that the loved one is more important than Christ is.

• First of all, how does anyone know who went or is going to heaven? When people die the first thing some people say is they are in heaven. That is another indication that these types of people have very little understanding about the Word of God.

• Yet only the Lord knows who is going to heaven. Example: The disciples thought Judas Iscariot was one of their brothers in Christ (paraphrasing). Even though Judas were on of the disciples, he was not born-again. When Jesus prayed to His Father (this is the Lord’s prayer), He said: While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name.

• Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled (John 17:12).

• How do we know Judas was the son of perdition? Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Him to them. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. So, he sought how he might conveniently betray Him (Mark 14:10-11).

• I certainly believe that the brothers and sisters I am intricately connected to are going to heaven.

• If you are truly born again, at least say you want to see Jesus, instead of mentioning your loved one. Did your loved one suffer and die and was buried and resurrected so you could be saved?

The last stanza of Candi Staton's song

“Your face is the first face I want to see”

I want to see Jesus

You suffered and died for me

Jesus, oh you freed me from myself

I want to see Jesus

And Your face will be the first face I want to see

"And, when we see Jesus, Amen! We will sing and shout the victory!"

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Got a Problem? Guess Who can Work it Out? 4-15-2023

• A few weeks ago, I was wondering how Shirley Caesar’s song “He's Working it Out” tied in with a message. I didn’t come up with anything until yesterday morning.

• Some situations came up on the prayer line pertaining to how certain families are against other family members for what seems to be no reason at all. I am sure most people can identify with it happening in their family, I can certainly attest to it.

• If you are born again, it will happen, because you have a light and Darkness cannot stand light – Jesus came into the world with the greatest light to dispel darkness I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness (John 12:46).

• Look what Jesus went through - All the way to the cross because He was hated by many. If the world hate you, you know that it hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hated you (John 15:18-19).

• He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him (John 1:11). The Pharisees were green with jealousy because the focus went from them to Jesus who came to set people free, whereas, they had the people in bondage. Then the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him (Matthew 12:14).

• If you walk in the light, not only will the world hate you, but sometimes it will come from and through your own family. So don't be alarmed because these things are going to happen. Although it hurts, God will help you to get through it.

Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law (Luke 12:53). This includes any family member who is against another another family member.

• To those of you who are concerned about others being against you, or wondering how you can change people. You/we can’t! Just keep praying and letting our light so shine….. (Matthew 5:1-16), and let God work it out. Remember, everybody will be judged by their evil works.

• Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Hang in there!

~ Betty A. Burnett~

O’ Magnify the Lord with Me! 4-14-2023

• Yesterday, the message was about getting off course and getting back on track; how our Father forgives us and restores us. From that, I believe that the message convinced some people to change and get back on track.

• Since the Lord forgives and restores us: if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14) and If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

• When we are back in fellowship with God, we should be giving Him some Hallelujah praise! We should exalt Him, for He is worthy to be praised, for His new mercies, His faithfulness, His goodness, and His Agape (unconditional Love) to and for us.

• As the Psalmist David phrased it: “O magnify the Lord with and let’s exalt His name together, for He is worthy to be praised.”(Psalm 34)

• Once you have been forgiven, you are free. Don’t allow the devil to put condemnation on you. Leave your past faults behind and only use those experiences to tell others how you were delivered and set free from whatever had you bound, even if it was taking ownership of a pew. We don’t own anything, not even ourselves.

To have that kind of mindset stems from pride, which is sin. That's what got Lucifer kicked out of heaven (Isaiah 14:12-14).

• The earth is the LORD's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein (Psalm 24:1); for every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills.. (Psalm 50:10).

• Aren’t you glad we belong to such a wonderful Father? There is nothing or anybody that can be compared to Him. That’s why He deserves the highest praise.

Will you magnify the Lord with me?

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Have You Lost Your Focus?
“Take Me Back – Things Sho Ain’t the Way They Used to be” 4-13-2023

• Years ago, I wrote several plays for the church where I was a member and also for other places in the community. It was based on church folks and things that that were not becoming for those who professed to be born-again.

What one could take away from the play was, regardless of what they did, God would forgive and restore them back into fellowship with Him.

This is a synopsis

• Some people were founding members who felt that they had more privilege than others and that should run the show (church).

• It appeared like some of the members took ownership of certain pews. In other words, no one could sit in their pew. Even if someone came in that did not know, the so-called pew owner would ask them to move.

• Some choir members would go out on Saturday and party most of the night and would come and sing in the choir Sunday morning, and they had a hangover.

• To top it off, the preacher’s (pastor) lifestyle was so messed up, doing any and everything he thought he could get away with. Then, God sent a prophet in warn the church. The final words spoken after correcting the church, the prophet spoke was: If He has to reach way down, Jesus will pick you up.

The church needed to go back to its first love. The emphasis was the same as when Jesus told John to write to the seven churches in Asia (Revelation, chapters 2 and 3). Some were commended, but some were warned.

• In any case, God wants His church to be what He called it to be. The church is being invaded by worldly influence, which brings me to the way many of them dress. Our bodies are holy and we are God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), therefore, it is ungodly to carry ourselves like the world (2 Corinthians 6:14-17). We are commanded to be separate and different. What kind of light do we have acting like the world does?

• “Take Me Back” depicted how God’s people should return to their first love. He not only forgives, but He also heals and restores us. Praise the Lord for a church (body of believers) that has a repentant heart, wants to get back on track, and fix their eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

• If we are truly walking by faith, we are walking according to the Word of God, which means we are doing what the Word of God tells us to do.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

The Goodness, Mercy, and Faithfulness of God 4-12-2023

• I love listening to the many songs that minister to me. As I write new messages, some of the songs and the messages relate and that makes it better for some people. During the few years that my plays were presented, each of them had songs that helped to capture the audience’s attention.

• In talking to one of my sisters, we agreed that in church services, songs set the stage/atmosphere for the sermon (Word of God). Many people love rhythm and so do I, as long as it is not overboard.

• The message about “All my life, You’ve been good” is such a blessing to me, because when we are not or have not been faithful or acting good, God is always good, merciful, faithful, and His love never ends.

These are just a few scriptures about God’s faithfulness

• God is faithful - No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13).

• Faithful is He who called you, He will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:24). Not only did God call us into salvation He also has called us to serve in various capacities, and He is faithful in the work He’s called us to do. Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6). [Until Christ returns]

• Great is His faithfulness – God has new mercies every day (Lamentations 3:22). For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations (Psalm 100:5).

• He is Faithful with His goodness/blessings - The principle in the Old Testament is still for today. The Lord’s blessings are running (chasing) after us (Deuteronomy 28:2).

• Sing of His goodness - put a song in my heart; every day I hum a song continually.

• All our lives He has been good, when the demons tried to destroy us, God had His protection on us. Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:14).

• He’s so good - It is the goodness of God that leads people to repent (Romans 2:4), He is merciful, the Lord is faithful, and all of this is because He loves us.

• God does not change, even when we are not faithful. However, when we are faithful, our rewards will be great (Matthew 25:21-23). Don’t you want to hear Jesus say, “Well done, good and faithful servant?”

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

The LORD GOD Knows What’s in the Heart of Everyone 4-11-2023

• Yesterday’s message was about the change that has taken place in our lives; we’re no longer the same. With that being so, what about some people who profess to be born-again and they are holding something against someone else?

• There is a song titled “You Know My Name” The song is great, however for those who use this song , scriptures, or anything else and think that it works for people who profess to be children of God are and they are harboring unforgiveness. I felt the readers could understand what happens when a child of God is holding resentment against others.

• There is a hindrance when it comes to moving forward spiritually. Some people are being deceived because they think their ministry is moving forward. The truth is, these types of people are spinning wheels and going nowhere, or they are just chasing the wind.

• The Word of God is the proof of what happens to people who hold resentment against others.

• You can be going to heaven anyhow, or on your way to heaven, not trying to judge; only God knows the heart, but there will be a loss of rewards. Did you know that Love is the first fruit mentioned in (Galatians 5:22,) and everything is hinged on Love 1 Corinthians, chapter 13). If one is unforgiving, that reveals that they don’t love.

• Harboring unforgiveness not only hinders our walk, but it also affects our prayers. If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear (Psalm 66:18). Unforgiveness is sin!

• What about forgiving others? And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).

• God not only knows our names, But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. (Luke 12:7). That’s how much God values us, even if some are bald like me, the follicles are still there; God knows our thoughts before we think them (Psalm 139:2); the entire chapter sums up how God knows everything about us, after all He created us.

• God also knows that our hearts are deceitful above all things and desperately wicked- who can know it- we don’t know our own hearts, only God does (Jeremiah 17:9). Why wouldn’t God know everything about us, it was He who made us. The Almighty God is Omnipotent [He is all-powerful), God is Omniscience [He knows everything], God is Omnipresent [He is every where at the same time].

• Jesus said to His disciples: By this all will know that you are My disciples if you have love for one another (John 13:35).

How can others know that you are holding unforgiveness? By your actions and things, you say.

• Remember this, He only knows your name, God knows everything about you. So let the song “You hold my hand” minister to you and allow the words to sink deep into your soul and you will walk in victory - no mountain, giants and so on, can stop you.

He knows my name ~ Betty A. Burnett ~

A Brand New Life – Changed 4-10-2023

• Last week was such a high time of preparation and commemorating “Holy” or “Passion Week,” I read many posts and they were such a blessing.

• Now that we have celebrated Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, what happens next? Many people who celebrated these wonderful events may have been doing it by tradition or ritualistically.

• Whatever the case may be, my concern is this. How many of these people have a relationship with Christ. One may go through all the motions and their intent may be good and do good deeds, but being born again makes all the difference.

• The new life brings about a transformation (Greek Bible-metamorphóō) a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance:, we are no longer the same. Metamorphosis – example: An ugly worm/caterpillar turns into a beautiful butterfly. This means that the ugly sinful person we were changed into a beautiful person inside and out.

This is of utmost importance

• Once the change (transformation) is made, a butterfly can never be a caterpillar again. In other words, there is nothing we can do to change our relationship with Christ. However, not being faithful to the calling affects how we will be rewarded.

• Think about it! As much as Christ has done for us, why can’t we do what God has called us to do? Having a changed heart should drive us to be pleasing to God.

• It not only benefits us, but others will see the change and it can make a difference in their lives. Have you ever had someone to tell you that you don’t look the same, there is a glow on your face?

• Since a change has taken place in your life, if you just happen to where you’re not supposed to, you will be convicted (convinced) that it is wrong. And eventually, as you continue to be in fellowship with other saints, get in a Bible study class where you can grow, have you own personal Bible study and prayer time, those things will not be what you focus on. You will begin to fix your eyes more on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)

It may not be easy, but it is worth it!

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

He is Risen – Jesus Rose from the Dead! 4-9-2023
Evidence – Full proof that Jesus is no longer in the grave.

1) Let’s start off with Jesus identifying Himself as “I AM” (John 8:58), and how he who believes in Him will have eternal life (John 11:25-26). God Almighty, the “I AM” gave His Son for us to have eternal life (John 3:16).

2) The empty tomb proved that Jesus was resurrected from the dead. Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus (Luke 24:1-3).

3) Jesus’ body was not there because He had risen from the dead (Luke 24:6).

4) The angel said to the women, “He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again (Luke 24:6-7).

5) He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying (Matthew 28:6).

6) If Christ had not risen we would be miserable: For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; you are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished (1 Corinthians 15:16-19). If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.

7) Since the numbers three and seven mean perfect, and you are complete [perfect] in Him, who is the head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:10). This is from God’s perspective. These are the greatest phrases that a child of God should remember.

To you who are born-again, I wish you a “Blessed Resurrection Day” and those who are not born-again, I pray that one day you will be resurrected into the newness of life.

Forever Grateful ~ Betty A. Burnett

Who is The Passover Lamb? 4-8-2023

By this time (day) Jesus had already been in the heart of the earth two days. with the stone closed, and guarded to make sure nobody would take His body. However, this is what was said after Jesus was placed in the tomb.

The chief priests and Pharisees gathered together to Pilate, saying, Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, After three days I will rise.

Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away, and say to the people, He has risen from the dead. So the last deception will be worse than the first Pilate said to them, You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how. So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard (Matthew 27:62-66).

I found this article on the internet from Compelling Truth Ministries that lines up what I believe according to the Word of God, pertaining to Jesus Christ, the "Passover Lamb."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ became the final Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). Perhaps more accurately, the Passover lamb of the Old Testament was a foreshadowing of Jesus' sacrifice on our behalf.

John the Baptist called Jesus "the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). He was "a lamb without blemish or spot" for He lived a perfect life that was free from sin (1 Peter 1:19; Hebrews 4:15).

In the book of Revelation, John has a vision of Jesus as "a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain" (Revelation 5:6). Finally, Jesus was crucified during the season of Passover (Mark 14:12).

Jesus is our Passover Lamb; He was slaughtered so that we may be saved. His blood is the sacrifice that covered the penalty for our sins once and for all, removing any need for further animal sacrifices.

According to Jesus' own words, His blood gave us a new covenant for salvation: "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood" (Luke 22:20). His blood provides us with forgiveness: "this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:28).

By applying the blood of Jesus to our lives through salvation, we are saved from eternal damnation and are granted everlasting life instead (Hebrews 9:12–14).

From the Jewish Voice: For Messianic Jews, the death and resurrection of Jesus are inseparably tied to Passover week. So, while you won’t find Messianic Jewish congregations celebrating Easter, you will find them worshipping the Messiah Yeshua each Shabbat (Shah-BAHT), or Sabbath.

And at Passover, Messianic Jews commemorate the biblical Feast commanded by God along with its prophetic fulfillment in Yeshua’s death and resurrection to deliver us from our bondage to sin and free us to eternal life.

My belief: Because Christ The Passover Lamb has been sacrificed, there is no need to celebrate “Passover”

Easter was a Roman holiday festival that that they celebrated their goddess (Estra”) and it is a day, but the “Resurrection” is the day that we celebrate our “Risen Savior.”

Here is the key

• No two people are going to agree on everything. However, what matters is having a relationship with Christ. Receiving Jesus Christ as Messiah takes care of everything else when we are open to the truth.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Jesus Died on Good Friday? 4-7-2023

• Who is the greatest mathematician? Who is precise in everything? The reason those two questions were asked is because somebody doesn’t know how to count and somebody is in error. And it certainly is not God.

• Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy [Philosophy is a way of thinking about certain subjects such as ethics, thought, existence, time, meaning and value] and empty deceit [the act of causing someone to accept as true or valid what is false or invalid], according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ (Colossians 2:7-8).

• How in the world can anybody make three complete days (72 hours) from Friday to Sunday (the first day of the week)? Many children of God have been duped (tricked/deceived) by the devil. Don’t you know that the demons are laughing at us? Anybody that can count at all, knows Friday to Sunday is not three days.

• God made evening and then He made the morning each day of the week was repeated (Genesis 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31), except for the seventh day. Even though it is not written, the seventh day of creation was evening and morning just as the other six days.

• When it came to the timeline pertaining to Jesus’ death burial and resurrection, six o’clock PM was the beginning of a day. Therefore, He could not have died on a Friday and be resurrected from the dead on Sunday.

• I am not going to get technical with this, just providing enough information to help you to think. I also want the readers to know that we should not accept anything that is not biblically correct.

Words of Jesus Christ: For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth (Matthew 12:40).

• To say that Jesus Christ did not stay in the heart of the day for three days and three nights as Jesus Himself said, is discrediting His finished work (John 19:30) and at the end of the sabbath as it began to dawn the first day of the week….. the angel said to the women: He is risen (Matthew 28:6). For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth (Matthew 12:40).

• To say that Jesus Christ died on Friday and rose on Sunday is actually saying He did not stay in the heart of the earth three full days and three full nights. Some are enslaved by being ignorant of God’s Word, which makes them ignorant of Satan’s devices.

• I too overlooked this especially important event that was miscalculated, and I’ve known for many years that it was wrong. I would talk about it in groups or among certain people but it was written publicly like this.

• Remember what Jesus said about Satan: He was a liar from the beginning and he was the father of lies John 8:44). If you are a born-again believer, why are you allowing the demons to continue deceiving (lying) you about the timeline of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection?

• From the internet: The general consensus on both sides is that you can’t have 3 literal days and 3 literal nights, if you hold to the Friday Sunday timeline. If “heart of the earth” is a reference to the grave, there is not enough time between the death of Jesus Friday evening, and his resurrection Sunday morning.

• The resurrection of Jesus from the dead took place at sunset Saturday, April 8, 30 A.D. This is three complete days and nights, or seventy-two hours, after he died and was placed in the heart of the earth (i.e. tomb). This fulfilled the sign of Jonah the prophet he gave in Matthew 12:38 - 40 and proved He was the TRUE Messiah!

www.biblestudy.org/basicart/was-jesus-in-the-grave-for-three-days-and-nights.

Tomorrow: “The Passover Lamb

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

“Walking by Faith” 4-6-2023

• A couple of weeks ago, a friend and I went to Hobby Lobby (I love that store), and a decorative shoe was where other Christian figurines were on display. We looked with admiration and said that the gorgeous shoe figurine looked like me, but I did not purchase it.

• On Monday, we went back to Hobby Lobby and the figurine was still there. I said, it must have been waiting for me. I purchased the shoe, not knowing where it was going to fit in with the other decorative pieces. Upon my arrival at home, I sat it on an end table, and Wow! It matched perfectly with what was already on the table.

• I believe the Lord wanted me to have the shoe to share about my faith walk. Truly, it has been quite a walk by faith experience for me. Over the years I have learn to trust God more and more; I learned how to lean and depend on Him. When I didn’t see how I was going to make it, God made possible, what seemed to be impossible.

• The Spirit of God has led me to do things that seemed like I was crazy to some people, but many of them are seeing how our amazing God has blessed me. My cup is overflowing, it is running over.

• It’s like Deuteronomy 28:1-14 says, when we obey our [awesome] God, His blessings will chase us down and overtake us, we will be blessed wherever we go, the Lord will cause our enemies to scatter…… And on and on and on will the blessings of the Lord be on all those who are obedient to His Word.

• I also have experienced the truth of God’s Word when it comes to what He will do when it comes to our enemies. When a man’s ways please God, He make His enemies to be at peace with him (Proverbs 16:7).

I never said this faith walk was easy because it isn’t, but it is worth it! And it is so rewarding. We are to trust God for whatever and whomever He brings into our lives, knowing that something good will come out of it (Romans 8:28). For, without faith it is impossible to please Him (Hebrews 11:6).

• This part of the story of my walk with the Lord leads up to tomorrow’s message about “Good Friday” and the “Resurrection.”

• I have the kind of faith that believes every Word of this incredible God is true, so, when you read my message tomorrow, I believe it will be an eye-opener to many of God’s children, and that it will bring conviction, that they will be convinced that it is best to believe God’s Word rather than man’s traditions and rituals.

God bless you,

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

What Happens When a Child of God Slips and Fall Down? 4-4-2023

Yesterday’s message was about pressing forward and not giving up or “Throwing the towel in.”

What happens we slip and fall during our walk with Christ? Since we are still living in these bodies (our temple), we will fall into sin. Why? Because the flesh craves unholy desires. In fact, Paul said, in this flesh dwells no good thing (Romans 7:18).

The Word of God tells us what happens when we fall into sin.

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD,

And He delights in his way.

Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;

For the LORD upholds him with His hand.

I have been young, and now am old;

Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,

Nor his descendants begging bread (Psalm 37:23-25).

God never leaves us nor will He forsake us (Hebrews 13:5); He is always with us no matter what we do. However, we get out of fellowship with Him when we fall into sin (miss the mark). You won’t stay down because Jesus will pick you up.

You can never go so low that you can’t get back up - God’s grace goes beyond any and every sin for the believer. Moreover, the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more (Romans 5:20).

Examples

Moses was a murderer – He killed an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew. Now it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out to his brethren and looked at their burdens. And he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his brethren. So, he looked this way and that way, and when he saw no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. (Exodus 2:11-12)

David was an adulterer, and he had the man murdered whose wife he committed adultery with (2 Samuel, chapter 11). Please read the scriptures.

Don’t try to justify sins or take God’s grace for granted because sin can never be excused, therefore we should not take it lightly. All in all, we are going to miss the mark, but remember Jesus reached way down to pick us up, no matter how far we fall.

Encouragement

Lay aside every sin and weight that so easily beset you and look to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2). Also, get with someone who cares about you and they are concerned about your spiritual walk. It is important for you to be accountable to someone and perhaps more than one person.

Coming tomorrow, Lord willing “Walking by Faith”

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

The Blessings of the Lord
Maica’s Past and Current Achievements 4-4-2023

I find it quite a delight to write a second message about Maica. The last one was “Maica, the Achiever”. Any time someone continues to move forward at different intervals of their lives, I want to share their story.

As they say, the proof is in the pudding (an expression that means the value, quality, or truth of something must be judged based on direct experience with it—or on its results), and Maica is living proof of what the Lord is doing in her life.

She is an incredible 14 year old who has had many achievements, academically, sports, dancing, singing and acting are just a few of what is mentioned about this all-around teenager.

Both sides of Maica’s family are proud of her and we do everything possible to support and encourage her to “keep it moving”

This is from the Playbill book – Who’s Who

Maica Nesmith as Piragua Guy – Student Choreographer

Maica is a sophomore and very actively involved at PHS. She returns to our stage from Chicago: School Edition (Student Choreographer, Ensemble) and Lion King Jr. (Lioness). She is a cheerleader and on the LaCrosse and Flag Football teams. She is a member of FCA, Gospel Choir, BSU. She participates in Kids First! Film Critics and dance outside of school.

Maica Nesmith is certainly reaching for the stars!

And, to anyone who was a part of this awesome play, "Hats off to You"- You were superb!

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Young Men and Young Women, Don't Forget God 4-3-2023

• Some of you young women have shared your story, but some others that I did not choose to, and that is okay. Whatever the case, this message is to help you continue moving forward if have already reached certain goals. For both groups (males and females), there is a caution sign to be careful as to how you handle your success, whether futuristic or in the now.

• I understand that you are young and things are different, but remember this, the Word of God does not change. As children of God, we should not compromise our spiritual values.

• Timothy was a young person in ministry; and since you are born again, you also have a ministry that is more than likely connected to your business or career. Timothy was a young pastor and false teachers had come in the church. Paul encouraged Timothy, whom he considered his son in the ministry.

• You, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.

• And also, if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things (2 Timothy 2:1-7). This is the way I feel about all those God places in my path.

• The second book of Timothy has much about what happens in the end times. Please read the few short chapters.

• This is another important point. Don’t forget about God! Afterall, none of these things could happen without Him. The Word of God says, we can do nothing without Him (Philippians 4:13).

• And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

• So it shall be, when the LORD your God brings you into the land of which He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give you large and beautiful cities which you did not build, houses full of all good things, which you did not fill, hewn-out wells which you did not dig, vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant—when you have eaten and are full— then beware, lest you forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.

• You shall fear [reverence] the LORD your God and serve Him and shall take oaths in His name. You shall not go after other gods, the gods of the peoples who are all around you (for the LORD your God is a jealous God…. The principle is the same for God’s children today, keep His Word in front of you, lest you forget. Also, when others who are unsaved hear of the testimony that you give for God’s glory, it can lead them to salvation – It is the goodness of God that leads men [and women] to repentance (Romans 2:4).

Leave a legacy that will be beneficial to others.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Palm Sunday – The Triumphal Entry of Jesus 4-2-2023

The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out:

“Hosanna!

‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’

The King of Israel!” (John 12:12-13).

Let’s Magnify the Lord, for He is worthy to be praised!

Wishing you a Joyous Palm Sunday!

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

April Fools Day? 4-1-2023

The first of April has long been celebrated as a day of playing practical jokes and tricks on unwitting people and making them feel foolish—hence, the day's name: April Fools' Day. (There's not a singular fool on this day—or any day, for that matter—hence our less common designation on April Fool's Day.) The term April fool can refer to both the people tricked and to the trick itself.

• If one is doing this as a way of having fun and pulling an innocent trick on others, I feel it is okay.

• Some historians believe that April Fools Day originates from the Roman festival known as Hilaria (that’s Latin for joyful), observed in ancient Rome at the end of March. It is said that followers of the cult of Cybele celebrated this holiday by disguising themselves with masks and ridiculing other citizens. This paragraph reminds me of the scripture pertaining to how the apostle Paul and other apostles were being treated.

• With that being said, I feel that this is the appropriate time to write about fools and how the word is used in a way that it puts people down.

• The definition a fool in the Greek Bible. 3474 mōrós (the root of the English terms, "moron, moronic") – properly, dull (insipid), flat ("without an edge"); (figuratively) "mentally inert"; dull in understanding; nonsensical ("moronic"), lacking a grip on reality (acting as though "brainless").

• Have you ever heard the song, “What kind of fool do you think I am?” This is the kind of fool I am. I am a fool for Christ’s sake! Now read on and I hope you will understand.

Fools for Christ’s Sake

• Paul was addressing born-again believers who were well off in their status. He was rebuking them because of their pride and operating in the flesh (carnal), people who saw themselves at the top, while the humble apostle considered himself at the bottom.

• Now these things, brothers, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?

• You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you! For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men.

• We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now (1 Corinthians 4:9-13).

• Call me what you want to, but you didn’t make me, God did! And I will continue to serve God until I die, and that includes being a fool for Christ’s sake. The bottom line is this, "I'm Sold-Out!”

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

National Physicians Week 3-31-2023

• Since I have spent the month of March writing about “Women’s History Month” and one of those days was set aside to celebrate “Colecterol Cancer Day.”

• Although I didn’t write messages the entire week pertaining to National Physicians Week, I feel it would be an injustice not to post something. In fact, this will be the most notable story of the month. But first, let’s get to the doctors and the vital role the play in most people’s lives.

• Doctors deal with years of school, grueling shifts, and emotionally difficult decisions, and still manage to care for us with focus and kindness.

• Physicians drastically improve the duration and quality of life for everyone, and throughout history have done their best to use cutting-edge science to care for others. [some words slightly changed -not to be repetitive]

• There is a saying “Save the best for last” It’s time for the best part, He is Dr. Jesus, the greatest physician of all time. And He never lost a patient (soul), They were made completely whole.

Grueling shifts –Jesus became and had to rest (Mark 6:31). Compassion - Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd (Matthew 9:35-36)

God gave His best by caring (loving) us that He sent His Son to die for us (John 3:16)

• The other person that should model Jesus Christ even more so than physicians is a pastor. Every attribute mentioned previously should certainly fit the role of a pastor.

• Emotionally difficult decision –He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” (Matthew 26:39). Going to the cross and being separated from His Father temporarily because He became sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21). Remember God hates sin.

• This is very important, when Jesus was talking to God, He addressed Him as Father, yet when He hung on the cross, “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama Sabbathani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46).

• One can quote the Model prayer over and over, but if they are not born-again, God is not their Father (Matthew 6:9). Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, and that includes everybody who is born-again.

• So Jesus tells Nicodemus “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life” (John 3:14).

• Therefore, the people came to Moses, and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against the LORD and against you; pray to the LORD that He take away the serpents from us.” So, Moses prayed for the people.

• Then the LORD said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent, and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live.” So Moses made a bronze serpent, and put it on a pole; and so, it was, if a serpent had bitten anyone, when he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived. (Numbers 21:7-9).

• The brazen serpent was a type of Christ made sin for us (John 3:13-14, 2 Corinthians 5:21). Physicians display the serpent symbol which means to heal the sick, whereas Jesus did both: He physically and the body and He healed the sin-sick soul.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

The Team at Burnett Ministries – Women’s History Month 3-30-2023

Yesterday, I posted the history of Burnett Ministries and this is a continuation about those who are involved. They will share what their experience with Burnett Ministries means to them.

Snippets of My Sisters’ Experience

Thelma Cheek…

• For me, being a part of Burnett Ministries means knowing the Lord more personally and growing through my relationship with Him. Being in a ministry where we are able to share the word daily, pray for others in our communities and the world, and seeing the answers to those prayers. I am thankful for being able to reach out through the daily word, bible study, prayer, and supporting/encouraging others and most of all furthering our relationship with God.

Lisa Garner…

• As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17) Burnett Ministries has done just that for me. From the outset of the ministries birth, it has been an integral part of my spiritual growth. The relationships within ministry leadership and fellowships with ministry supporters throughout the years have nurtured, encouraged, and strengthened my faith. I am grateful for the prayers of the ministry submitted on my behalf that ushered me into the presence of the Lord and to a place of restoration.

Susan Smith…

• My experience being a part of Burnett Ministries is a very vital part of my walk with the Lord. The messages are so enlightening in my spiritual growth. They have also made me want to know what my gift (s) are and to use them for God to be Glorified. Being a part of the ministry has helped me to love and have more compassion for others.

In Proverbs 4:7 it states: Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding. Burnett Ministries and the Bible Sharing class teaches principles, make the Word clear and has allowed me to get better understanding of God’s Word.

Betty A. Burnett…

• These awesome women of God have been my right hands that have been faithful to the ministry. Although they are behind the scenes, if had not been for them and some other prayer warriors, this ministry would not be what it is today. The Word of God says: Get to know those who labor among you (1 Thessalonians 5:12). We have known each other for approximately twenty-four years.

It humbles me to know that no ministry can run alone, we need each other because we are one body functioning with different parts to make whatever goal we are striving to reach, there is good success, especially when we trust God!

Thank you ladies, for being here for me. I have no doubt this was ordained by God.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Burnett Ministries History – Women’s History Month 3-29-2023

• We started with a couple of men on the board of directors as well as several women who still remain. Eventually, the board consisted of a few women. It was in 2005 when I received the vision to start Burnett Ministries.

• I joined Facebook in 2009 to connect with others through social media. I took a step- by- step process in allowing the Spirit of God to direct me. I had no idea how this was going to work, because I really did not like being on Facebook and had thought about closing my account. There were so many negative and ungodly things being posted, but what was I to expect, since it was worldly.

• The Spirit spoke to me around April of 2011 and told me to start posting messages on Facebook. However, it was not until September 2012 that I started posting messages. I had a ministry blog, but at this point I don’t remember why it was set up initially. Yet God had given me a vision at the onset of the ministry that it would be global.

• The board of directors agreed with my vision and we also used this “Do not despise small beginnings” This is the actual scripture: Though your beginning is small, yet your latter end shall greatly increase (Job 8:7), and God certainly is enlarging our territory.

• Now, it really took a step of faith to continue moving forward. There were times it did not seem like anything was happening; we were at a standstill. Sometimes I wanted to throw the towel in, but thanks be to God for using my sisters in the ministry with me, as an encouragement for me not to give up.

• As I look back, I see that the enemy was behind this because he did not want to see this ministry of deliverance to be developed more and more in “Setting the Captives Free” (our theme), by breaking the chains off the lives of others. Some born-gain believers who are ignorant of the Word, others who are not saved and still others who may be saved and do not have an understanding of God’s principles, are being set free.

• In 2012, God sent someone along to encourage me to post the messages on the blog page, and from there it went global - burnettministries.org

• The ministry has progressed (expanded) to a conference call Bible sharing with teachers who have been called by God to fulfill their assignment, which includes being a part of Burnett Ministries, messages are being posted more frequently, and the Spirit has directed me in a way that will also capture some of the younger generation.

• I have certainly been blessed with the ministry God has entrusted to me and I am grateful to God for these wonderful women (His masterpieces), He has placed in my life to support, encourage, comfort, pray for and believe in what God has called me to do. This gives me the drive to continue moving forward (Philippians 3:14). “Keep on Pushing”

• Tomorrow Lord willing, each of my sisters will share their experience and what Burnett Ministries means to them.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

Women's History Month - Diana's Story 3-28-2023

Introduction

I met this awesome woman of God on Saturday, March 25, 2023 in Hamilton, New Jersey through my niece at a Pop-up event. It was an immediate spiritual attraction, we hit it off right away. As we continued conversations a few times, I felt that Diana’s story would be of great encouragement and motivational for readers.

Diana’s Story

On October 22nd of 2022, I decided to re-align myself with God and get baptized. I was originally baptized when I was 10 years old, but I didn’t remember the details. This time my experience was so real and very emotional. A few days later after being baptized I felt that God began to highlight all the things that I needed to change in my life.

I also felt this deep desire to serve in my church and in my community. In January 2023, I participated in a 21 day fast with my church and that’s when my deep relationship with God began. During my fast I found a quiet place in my home and started and ended my day in prayer. When you pray and read His word you will feel the Holy Spirit in you, and you will start living the life that God had always planned for you.

Life can be hard and filled with sadness at times. In the past when I was going through difficult times in my life, I would cry myself to sleep and just be depressed and feel defeated. When you give your life to God and put Him first in your life you will no longer feel alone. You will feel loved and empowered, now when I am facing challenges in my life I just talk to God and give it all to Him and in return he affirms me with peace.

I am so excited for my future! God has given me visions of what he has planned for me, and they are more then what I could ever dream of for me and my family. Psalm 57:2 says, “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me.” This is key in understanding God's purpose for your life. God has numbered your days and will fulfill every purpose He has for you.

Diana Edwards

Owner of Diana Glamazon Boutique

Women’s History – All of You Wonderful Women of God 3-27-2023

• There is a saying that lines up with the Word of God, we should always be ready to deliver a word just in case. Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season, (2 Timothy 2:4a) it means to always “on-duty,” “ready to go.” The emphasis is the same. Many times, I don’t have a message and at the last minute the Spirit of God prompts me to write.

• It is amazing because, our dependency becomes totally on God, which should always be. It is a blessing to know that God has a ram in the bush, and He is certainly an “On-Time” God!

• Today, I want to honor my sisters who may not be in the lime-light like some “Quote on Quote” famous but you are important to me. You did not share your story like some others did, but you are still important to me, and most of all, you are important to God.

• God does not show partiality (Romans 2:11), He loves us all the same, even though we are different, and our assignment is different. If you are born again, we are on the same journey, on our way to our eternal home.

• I say it like this: “There are no BIG I’s and little u’s.” One person is just as important as the other. So, to all of you masterpieces of God (Ephesians 2:10), walk tall, but humble. Some of you may be short in stature like me, but height, size and not even physical beauty makes anybody more important than the other.

• Fix your eyes on Jesus who is the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:1-2), and don’t be thrown by what is happening in someone else’s life. In other words, run your own race.

God loves you and so do I.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

A Biblical Intercessory Prayer Warrior 3-26-2023

• Today is Sunday and many people attend church services, either physically (the first preference is assembling together with other saints (Hebrews 10:25), or through Zoom.

• Whatever the case, I felt this would be the appropriate time to highlight prayer since it was the topic this past week. In other words, this message will be a conclusion on this awesome calling.

• Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. (Luke 2:36-38).

• Anna was an awesome woman of God who did not stop serving her purpose despite her age. And she was a prophetess. Many times, those who have the prophetic call are also intercessors. Abraham and Moses were prophets, and they interceded (prayed) for the people.

• Prophets/prophetesses intercede, encourage, warn, correct, which is to protect people, and they see things pertaining to the future. They fore tell (future), and they forth tell, whether it is a message to encourage, warn, and so on.

• Anna had a call from God and she served in her call by giving it her all. Are you fulfilling your purpose? Do you know what God has assigned for you to do on this earth? Did you know that you are not here by accident? Do you know that you are not here just to be here?

• As I traveled with my nieces yesterday, some of the conversation was pertaining to where God has placed them in their careers. Whether it is in the secular realm, being a born again believer it is also ministry. Didn’t Jesus commission us to go into the world and witness the Gospel (Matthew 28:19-20)?

• Did you know He meant that wherever you are and whatever you are doing, it has been ordained by God for you to be at that particular place?

• When one understands their assignment (gifts and calling), they will not resist another child of God that is being used in their gift. For instance, even as a child of God, we miss the mark, we get caught up in ungodly things. Therefore, God has placed prophets (Ephesians 4:11) to help the us to get back on course.

• These prophets don’t jump (are not quick) to give a word of correction, warning and so on, they pray and get directions from the Spirit of God. Many times, we see a change in others’ lives through intercessory prayer. So, please seek the Lord as to which way to minister; otherwise, more harm can be done than good.

Allow the Lord to order your steps, and you will never go wrong.

~ Betty A. Burnett ~

We Give You Thanks 6-2-2023

Who is Jesus Christ? (Part 2) 5-23-2023

Who is Jesus Christ? 5-22-2023

Lamb of God (Jesus Christ), You are Worthy! 5-21-2023

Let Everything that has Breath Praise the Lord 5-20-2023

Johanna Ballard’s Poem “Filling My Hollow Soul”

Johanna Ballard’s Testimony 5-18-2023

How the World Views God’s Children 5-17-2023

Are Some of God's Children More Special to Him than Others? 5-16-2023

Greetings to all my wonderful family and friends! 5-15-2023

"Happy Mother's Day"

“Mother’s Day” 5-14-2023

Celebrating You Beautiful Queens 5-13-2023

“Mother’s Day” Remembering My “Rose” in Spanish Harlem 5-12-2023Leola

Remembering a “Mother’s Day Carnation” Nancy Burnett Nichols 5-11-2023

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Remembering Two Significant Mothers ~ Catherine Patrick Wells & Isabelle Williamson Wade 5-10-2023

Remembering Mothers Indeed ~ Grandma Alice 5-9-2023

What Does the Word of God Say About His People Wearing Tattoos on Their Bodies? 5-8-2023

Assembling Together 5-7-2023

Greetings!Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior

Jesus Paid Our Debt in Full 5-5-2023

Tithing (Honoring- Worship) to the King 5-4-2023

Future Topics and Testimonials 5-3-2023

Secret Societies 5-2-2023

Greetings Family and Friends 5-1-2023

Get that Monkey (Devil) off Your Back! 4-28-2028

Misusing What Belongs to God 4-27-2023

Evil Communication Corrupts Good Morals 4-26-2023

Drawing Nearer to God? 4-25-2023

Follow the Right Path, Even if You Walk Alone? 4-24-2023

A Soldier in the Army of the Lord? 4-23-2023

Remembering Dr. Charles Stanley 4-22-2023

The Bringhurst Family – Testimonial 4-21-2023

Upcoming Testimonial 4-20-2023

Flipping the Coin From Children Being Disobedient to Parents, to Fathers Do Not Provoke Your Children to Anger 4-19-2023

Respect – Honoring Elders 4-18-2023

Looking Forward to Seeing Your Loved Ones in Heaven? 4-17-2023

Got a Problem? Guess Who can Work it Out? 4-15-2023

O’ Magnify the Lord with Me! 4-14-2023

Have You Lost Your Focus? “Take Me Back – Things Sho Ain’t the Way They Used to be” 4-13-2023

The Goodness, Mercy, and Faithfulness of God 4-12-2023

The LORD GOD Knows What’s in the Heart of Everyone 4-11-2023

A Brand New Life – Changed 4-10-2023

He is Risen – Jesus Rose from the Dead! 4-9-2023Evidence – Full proof that Jesus is no longer in the grave.

Who is The Passover Lamb? 4-8-2023

Jesus Died on Good Friday? 4-7-2023

“Walking by Faith” 4-6-2023

What Happens When a Child of God Slips and Fall Down? 4-4-2023

The Blessings of the Lord Maica’s Past and Current Achievements 4-4-2023

Young Men and Young Women, Don't Forget God 4-3-2023

Palm Sunday – The Triumphal Entry of Jesus 4-2-2023

April Fools Day? 4-1-2023

National Physicians Week 3-31-2023

The Team at Burnett Ministries – Women’s History Month 3-30-2023

Burnett Ministries History – Women’s History Month 3-29-2023

Women's History Month - Diana's Story 3-28-2023

Women’s History – All of You Wonderful Women of God 3-27-2023

A Biblical Intercessory Prayer Warrior 3-26-2023

Johanna Ballard’s Poem
“Filling My Hollow Soul”

“Mother’s Day” Remembering My “Rose” in Spanish Harlem 5-12-2023
Leola

Greetings!
Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior

Have You Lost Your Focus?
“Take Me Back – Things Sho Ain’t the Way They Used to be” 4-13-2023

He is Risen – Jesus Rose from the Dead! 4-9-2023
Evidence – Full proof that Jesus is no longer in the grave.

The Blessings of the Lord
Maica’s Past and Current Achievements 4-4-2023