HELLO AND WELCOME TO MY BLOG PAGE (1159ANDCOUNTINGDOWN)

...AND THE PRODIGAL SON RETURNS HOME

One of my favorite parables Jesus taught to His disciples was the PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL SON (Luke 15:11-32).  In the story, a father has two sons.  The younger son asks for his inheritance and, after wasting his fortune (the word Prodigal means "wastefully extravagant"), becomes destitute.  He returns home with the intention of begging his father to be made one of his hired servants, expecting his relationship with his father is likely severed.  The father welcomes him back and celebrates his return.  The older son refuses to participate.  The father reminds the older son that one day he will inherit everything, and that they should still celebrate the return of the younger son because he was lost and now found.  

Although, in my case, I am the oldest son--the first of four brothers, and yet, I can relate to the younger son's desire to leave home and see what the world out there had to offer.   I didn't cash in on any inheritance when I left home, but I did disconnect from my family--in search of something that I would later find was always there--in the backyard of my childhood--The Importance of FAITH & FAMILY!   In my wandering aimlessly, at times, I did manage to attain various skills that I would use in my 30 plus years of career in business administration.   But I also found myself mixing with the wrong company and eventually knee deep in pig's slop.   I had made a mess of my life and I believed I had fallen too far to ever be able to return to a loving father.  

What I have always pulled from the Parable of The Prodigal Son is that the son eventually came to his senses and realized things were not at all what he assumed (out in the world and awaiting him back home with his father).   I can only imagine the intense mind games the enemy was playing with this prodigal son-- "You can't go home.  Your father despises you and he will NEVER take you back into the family again!"   I know that when I was out there in the world, I too had many mental battles with what my family thought of me.   In their eyes, had I become a complete failure as a son, dad, husband and brother?  The Accuser of The Brethren (Satan) has a hey day on the Battlefield of our minds folks!    He is ready and willing to join you and I when we tie ourselves to a whipping post and beat ourselves up over and over again.   But praise God, that often what we presume and assume is not what is really going on behind the scenes back on the home-front.  The wrong thoughts and our imagination can really do a number on our brains folks!   This is why God's Word tells us "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5)

 I consider what we refer to as backsliders; those individuals who have walked away from God for one reason or another, as the modern day Prodigal Children.  And just as the father in the parable of the Prodigal Son celebrated the return of his son with a celebratory feast, I believe Father God does this as well--and all of heaven cheers for the return of one's relationship with our heavenly Father.  

I want to encourage everyone today that it is never too late to turn from the world's influences and to return home to God and His plans and purpose for your lives.   I know what it was like being a prodigal son and I praise God that I was restored--refreshed--rekindled with God's purpose for my life.  You too can back home and know that God's loving arms have always been open and ready to receive you again.   Placing a burning candle in one's window is a common tradition that dates back to colonial times.  Candle light often evokes the warmth of home and family....The lit candle was also placed in the window as a sign of good news or as a beacon to weary travelers.    I believe there is a symbolic "Candle" burning in heaven's window at all times as well.  The Light of Truth will always guide the weary travelers-- to the warmth of Family and Home..    


"Your Word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105).  

I pray that you always allow God's Word to shine brightly in your walk with Christ.  Have a blessed weekend and thank you for visiting my blog page.


Brother Jay Hudson   
 

IDENTIFYING THE CHANGE OF SEASONS IN OUR LIVES

Hello everyone!  Welcome to my blog page insertion for today (April 29, 2018).  Yes, it has been quite a while since I last posted anything on this blog.   These last few months have been a challenge for me and my personal growth (and maturity) and relationship with The Lord.   My marital status has changed and I have been learning how to move forward "Solo" in what God has for me to in what I believe to be The Final Mile.   I will explain what I mean in referring to this new season as The Final Mile later on in this article.

 I recently released my new book, THE FEATHER & THE SWORD (Amazon.com - Jay Hudson) and I believe this has been a significant event that has served as a Crossroad for me and the ministry.   Publishing this particular book signifies that I have completed one season and I am now entering into a new season.  It is so important for us to recognize when God desires that we enter into a new season.  Many times we struggle with discontentment, frustration, anger and an uncertainty of why things are the way they are.   Could it be that we are feeling these things because we are refusing to do what we must do in order to move forward with what God has for us to do in the next season?   I know for me, I stifle my own progress--and God is a Progressive God--always moving forward with His plans for our lives--but we have to be willing to walk beside Him; lead by His precious Holy Spirit.   I have been guilty, at times, of trying to run ahead of God and then I wonder why I feel I am suddenly all alone on the journey.   Can anyone else relate?  

Often times we question whether or not God still desires to use us for His plans and purposes--His Will (and assignment) for our lives while we are journeying through in this life.    There are those who prematurely abandon the Call that God has for their lives--and for a season (or sometimes more), we lay aside The Sword of Truth--feeling that we need a sabbatical of sorts.  We believe it is a time of refreshing, when in truth, it is a time to be in position; in a stance of readiness and a willingness to be obedient to The Holy Spirit's leading.   I tell folks that I would rather be a peasant who lives in the Center of God's Will for my life versus a King who abides in the wealth and prestige in a kingdom--living outside of God's Will for my life.   

I was recently viewing one of my Youtube podcast in July 2016 and I must humbly admit I was a bit disturbed with my appearance/persona.   Although I was speaking Truth and sharing what I believe The Holy Spirit had inspired me to share with the folks, I could see that I was experiencing a personal challenge of my own.   I realized that I was trying to "cosmetically" look better (and younger) by applying men's cosmetics.   In doing so, I am certain that there were those individuals who immediately judged my character based on my trying to look good for the camera(s).   It is amazing how much I believe I have changed in the last year and a half.   I am no longer obsessed with attempting to look better for the camera--I am willing to be absolutely transparent in spirit and in physical appearance.   With this being said, I have stepped into a new season of absolute vulnerability, transparency and authenticity.   My new saying is "You cut me and I bleed too!"   I want folks to see my heart, and I am not going to hide behind some cosmetic cover-up in the attempt to camouflage the reality that I am a 55 year old guy--wrinkles, gray hair and dark circles under my eyes.   I pray that you would hear what The Holy Spirit is speaking through me -- and you would truly hear my heart (and more important, the heart of God) as I am lead to share truth with you.   

THE FINAL MILE:     I recently moved back to my childhood stomping grounds--Wyoming, Michigan.    I had spent several years living in Arizona and then, after a divorce, I and my buddy (Toby- my Bichon Frise).   We had two extensive road trips (from Arizona (3-day drive) to Arkansas and then six months later, a 15 hour road trip back to Michigan).   Now we are back home and God has told me this is to be my last stop--The Final Mile.   He also has inspired me to begin to write a book of this same title - THE FINAL MILE - a poignant, loving reflection of how God has sustained my life as I have lived with "a thorn in the flesh" (HIV/AIDS) since April 12, 1994.    

One of the most precious things God has given me in all of my challenges on this journey has been the ability to be vulnerable.  He has allowed me to encourage others through my own experiences (the good, bad and ugly).   We often hear the phrase "I can read you like a book" and it is true with me--literally, because I wrote a book (my testimony) entitled THE DEVIL'S MISFITS:   My Testimony (Amazon.com - Jay L. Hudson).   I would encourage anyone who has ever struggled with same-sex attraction and/or drug addictions and occult involvements to read my story.   God is so incredibly faithful in ALL of His promises and He is no respecter of persons--what He has done for me He will also do for you my friend!  Since the day I asked Jesus to become my personal Lord and Savior, (August 1988), so many things have changed FOR THE GLORY OF GOD!   Becoming a Christian has been the most adventurous journey I believe man can ever experience.   

A PRAYER OF SALVATION

You too can ask Jesus into your heart today my friend.  It only takes you to be willing to say "Jesus, I am a sinner and I need forgiveness.   I ask that you come into my heart today--as my Lord and Savior.  Forgive me of all of my sins Jesus.   Open my eyes to Truth today God.   Please allow Your Holy Spirit to guide me everyday--leading me into ALL truth so that I will fulfill ALL of the plans and purposes You have ordained for me God.   Thank you Jesus for dying on The Cross at Calvary.   Amen!

If you have asked Jesus into your heart today, I would love to hear from you.  My email address is jhudson1159@gmail.com.  I am here for you as a resource of Truth, Love, Compassion and Encouragement.   I pray that your New Life (and Journey) with Jesus Christ is amazing. Just know that GOD'S BEST FOR YOUR LIFE IS YET TO COME!!   Welcome into the Family of God and into His Kingdom where we will spend eternity with Our Lord and King, Jesus Christ, my friend!   

In closing, I leave you with the following scripture: 

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

 Be blessed and Be a Blessing to Someone Else Today in Jesus' Name.  Amen!

Brother Jay

WELCOME TO 1159 AND COUNTING DOWN BLOG PAGE

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE - AND MORE IMPORTANT- HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

I am so thrilled to be providing you with a sneak peak of my new book cover for THE FEATHER & THE SWORD.   It is my desire to have this exciting book available through Amazon.com by December 31, 2017.    I can't think of a more appropriate way to begin a New Year (2018) than with TRUTH that we can share with everyone in our daily sphere of influence.   

Apologists today would love for everyone to embrace homosexuality as the norm, but Church Leaders and Christians must not endorse or condone what God calls an abomination and a sin He abhors.     Yes, we are to love those who are in the gay and lesbian lifestyle, and have compassion for them in their plight.  However, we must never mistake our bestowing the Love of Jesus on them as a stamp of approval for their choice of living in sexual sin.   

I chose the title of "The Feather & The Sword" for several reasons; first, the feather symbolizes the gentle touch or "feather stroke" we give with the Love of Jesus towards others; and The Sword symbolizes the power and strength of the Truth of God.   Both the Feather and The Sword points to Jesus Christ--and what I call "the divine rub" - The LOVE & TRUTH together is what brings an individual into the "Totality of Salvation, Deliverance and Eternal Right Standing with Our Heavenly Father.   The Love of Jesus is not what gets anyone into heaven, but rather, "The truth that sets the captives free" (John 8:32).    In truth, "the divine rub of LOVE and TRUTH" are needed for every sinner today.   

Most Christians do well in loving the homosexual who comes into the church today.  Where they tend to be less effective is in sharing the Truth that homosexuality is a sin that God calls an abomination.  Christians CANNOT only LOVE the gay or lesbian--we also have the responsibility to point them to TRUTH.   So many folks  in Christendom today are working so hard to get homosexuals into their church-- and indeed, it is a great first step in reaching out to the gay community and their need to be "set free from the bondage of sexual sin".   However, commendable as it may be, Christians are loving these precious souls right into hell if they are not leading them to the need for repentance.    It is our responsibility to let these individuals know that homosexuality is a sin and that gays and lesbians will not enter the kingdom of heaven.  (1 Corinthians 6:11)   But many Christians are intimidated or afraid to "offend" their homosexual friends and family members with the TRUTH.      What I say to you as a form of both encouragement and warning is:

I WOULD RATHER OFFEND YOU INTO HEAVEN WITH TRUTH THAN LOVE YOU INTO HELL WITH LIES 

I have heard it said, and I have said it a few times myself, "Truth hurts, but it sets you free".   I was 25 years old and a living as a proud gay man in Northern California when a young, beautiful Latin gal walked up and boldly told me that homosexuals can't get into heaven.  As she blew cigarette smoke in my face, she added, "It's true, all gays and lesbians will end up in hell".    Needless to say, I was highly offended at this seeming obnoxious little twit, but the Seed of Truth was deposited in my heart that day-- and it began to germinate over time.   I chewed on what she had said for many days, but inside, I knew that what she was saying was true.   There was something inside of me that knew that beyond what seemed like a hateful thing to hear, it was actually exactly what I needed to hear at the time.     Again, I reiterate, YES, I was OFFENDED and yet, I knew deep inside this gal had told me the TRUTH-- the same TRUTH that soon afterwards would "set me free".   I gave my life to Jesus Christ--recognized that homosexual is a sin and I repented and my life has NEVER been the same.  (This was almost 29 years ago).

As an interesting side note, I ended up marrying this same bold, feisty, little Latin beauty and together, she and I became Youth Leaders (and I returned back to God's Original Blueprint for my life-- His Plans and purpose for my life has continued for almost 29 years now)  GLORY TO GOD!   

This is why I have written "The Feather & The Sword".  Church Leaders and Christians SHOULD NEVER COMPROMISE or water-down THE TRUTH THAT SETS THE CAPTIVES FREE!   I praise God that someone had the courage to tell me the truth 29 years ago-- if folks only "Loved me with The Love of Jesus" but never showed me my need for repentance, I would not be the Servant of God I am today (and more important, I would not be going to heaven when I pass from this world into eternity).    

I encourage you to get a copy of my new book "The Feather & The Sword" through Amazon.com (Book and Kindle).   I am feverishly striving towards achieving an publishing date of December 31, 2017.  I appreciate all of your prayers folks!

May God richly bless you this holiday season.   Be blessed and be a blessing to someone else today in Jesus' name.   Amen! 

Love, Prayers, and Blessings, 

Jay

  

WELCOME TO 1159 AND COUNTING DOWN

November 29, 2017

Hey everyone, I am thrilled to announce that I am in the final stages of completing my new book entitled ""The Feather And The Sword".    The Holy Spirit has inspired me to share the powerful message of what I refer to as "The Divine Rub"; The Love of Jesus Christ and The Sword of Truth.    Many Christians and Church Leaders are doing a great job of bestowing the Love of Jesus on members of the gay community who come into the church today.  I respectfully refer to this as "the feather stroke of the love of Jesus".  However, what these same Saints are not doing is sharing the truth that homosexuality is a sin that God abhors.   This is the second side of "the Divine Rub" (The Sword of Truth).    If we do not share the Love of Jesus AND The Word of Truth with these precious souls, we are loving them right into hell.  These individuals must recognize homosexuality is a sin and that there is need for repentance.   If all we are doing is bestowing the Love of Jesus on these precious souls, and not leading them into all truth, then again I regrettably say, we are loving them right into hell.

In my new book I share a Phrase The Holy Spirit placed on my heart:

I WOULD RATHER OFFEND YOU INTO HEAVEN WITH TRUTH THAN TO LOVE YOU INTO HELL WITH THE ABSENCE OF TRUTH. 

The Holy Spirit has revealed to me that there are three demonic principalities that have been assigned to The Church today; The Spirit of Fear, Intimidation and Manipulation.    It is Satan's goal to keep Christians and Church Leaders (Pastors) from speaking the unadulterated Truth of God.  He desires that Pastors (and Christians) keep from sharing the Truth in the Holy Scriptures that "may offend someone in the congregation"; or, the Pastor will alter Truth to appease what itching ears want to hear; or the Pastor will omit these passages of holy scripture in efforts to protect "the attendance and the "tithers" and avoid what may stir up discomfort (which is another word for "Conviction").  

The Holy Spirit has also shown me a vision of what is soon to come to America in the near future.

THE VISION:    In my vision, I was sitting in a church with a large congregation of Saints.  The Pastor was up behind the podium and he was preaching from 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (where Apostle Paul is telling his congregants in the Church of Corinth there is a list of sins that will keep people out of heaven.   In this list, he shares that drunkards, liars, adulterers and homosexual will not enter the kingdom of heaven.)    The Pastor, in my vision, was lovingly sharing, in particular, about the issue of homosexuality being a sin.  Suddenly, the doors in the back of the church swung open and five men dressed in military uniforms, wearing blue helmets and carrying military rifles, marched up the center of the aisle; they were reciting an "addendum to the First Amendment of the Constitution of The United States of America (Freedom of Speech and Religion), and that the Pastor was in violation of hate speech and a hate crime (because he was preaching against homosexuality).   The Military Officer in charge handcuffed the pastor and they lead him out the back door of the church.   As they were leaving, the Pastor assured His congregation that everything was going to be okay and to pray.    I was sitting in the front row of the church and join everyone in silence and shock.   Suddenly, like sprouting weeds in a garden, individuals began to rise up and started applauding - about 30 members of the congregation standing gathered in the center of aisle and began cheering and declaring, "This is another victory for the LGBT community".   

(End of Vision)

I believe The Holy Spirit was revealing to me that the so called "violation" the Pastor in the vision was guilty of was  "Hate Speech" and "Hate Crime".   These terms are going to become the norm in America-- which means that anything that is preached from the Church pulpits in our nation that may "offend" someone who is living in these sinful lifestyles (homosexuality, adultery, drunkards, etc.,) (but homosexuality in particular with this vision), will be charged with a violation of hate speech or hate crime.   I also believe this vision indicates that there will be gays and lesbians who will be among congregations and will serve as "watchman" who will readily report when any Pastor begins to preach truth from the Word of God.    (Duly Note:   After pondering on this vision, I was curious about the blue helmets these military soldiers were wearing and I began to research and found that the United Nations military wear blue helmets.   So in my vision, this could indicate that the U.N. Military Forces were now playing an active role in what very well may be a part of The One World Government.)

Saints of God, we are currently experiencing a short season of God's mercy in this nation and I do believe America will still be judged for her Sin of Lawlessness (Sexual Perversion, Abortions, and so many other acts of defiance against God Almighty.   The time is fast approaching when there is going to be a shift in our government leadership and a new world order will eventually be established.   The day will come when Holy Bibles are outlawed and replaced with a One World Religion Bible; and a One-World Religion will be required in all houses of worship throughout the world.   Also, Great Persecution is coming to our nation, but rest assured that with great persecution also comes GREAT REVIVAL.   The Holy Spirit has revealed to me that a great revival is coming to The United States of America, but it will not be as many Christians believe it will come and in what form.   He has told me that "Revival will arise from up out of the ashes and debris of great destruction".    Revival will bring the refiner's fire to God's People -- The Bride will be holy and sanctified.    In great darkness and chaos, God's People will serve as "The Salt of the Earth" and "Light of the World" and many souls will give their lives to Jesus Christ.   

I am asking myself, how do I conclude this blog page after sharing such things, so I will simply say, "GOD IS LARGE AND IN CHARGE!   GOD IS IN CONTROL!    REJOICE SAINTS OF GOD BECAUSE HIS WORD TELLS US THAT IN THE END WE WIN-- THANK YOU JESUS!     

May Father God richly bless you all during this holiday season.   And let us all declare what the real reason for the season is-- The Birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.   Have a joyful, blessed Christmas with your family and friends. 

Be blessed and be a blessing to someone today in Jesus' Name!  

Jay

WELCOME TO 1159 AND COUNTING DOWN BLOG PAGE

November 26, 2017

This morning I began studying 2 Timothy, Chapter 4 -- Apostle Paul was giving his final instructions to his servant and friend, Timothy.   As I read through each passage of holy scripture, I found one thing that stood out to me most-- Apostle Paul KNEW he was close to the Finish Line of Heaven.   He was aware that he was about to wrap up his final season (assignment) here on earth.  Many folks would debate on whether or not God lets a person know that their Final Season here on earth is coming to an end.   I personally believe God does speak to certain people about how they are now running in the Final Mile in the race towards Heaven's Finish Line.   

As I pondered on the things Apostle Paul admonished young Timothy with in his final instructions as he approached the finish line towards heaven, I began to question what advice I would leave behind to those individuals whom I may have had the privilege and honor of guiding, challenging, teaching and inspiring in their faith walk.    Like leaving a legacy, not of materialism or fortune, or a tangible inheritance (which we all should stride to do so if we are able to do so for our children and grandchildren), but what wisdom did we bestow on those God allowed our lives to touch along the way.  

I know I have little to nothing of great worldly value to give to my son as an inheritance, but I do believe, nevertheless, that I do have a legacy of my faith to leave as an example of how my son should stride to become more like Jesus Christ everyday!    As I have thought about the issue of leaving a legacy it has brought back fond memories of when my son, then age 11 years old, looked me in the eye and said, "Dad, you are always so nice to EVERYONE!"    Ever since I became a born-again Christian, folks have taken notice of my having The Gift of Mercy and The Gift of Exhortation (All Glory To God).   I love people and I always want the very BEST for them in everything they endure in life.   I know I've made a hill of mistakes along my journey, but I have also seen God turn those "hills of mistakes" into "Mountains of His Mercy and Grace"-- Praise God that He turns around what the enemy meant for evil for good.   I know God has saved me from myself (and the sinful nature I am working to overcome daily)-- many times.    I feel there have been times when I have cashed in on His Mercy far too many times-- but I am reminded in His Word "His mercies are NEW every morning".     This is not a pass to just keep repeating the same sins again and again.   The Holy Spirit is an expert on revealing to us how we can overcome anything that tends to try to cause an entanglement in our lives.    I praise God for all the chains that have fallen from my life and the shackles that have been loosed because Jesus set this captive free.   Amen?    

Apostle Paul was young Timothy's mentor and in the aforementioned passages of scripture (2 Timothy, Chapter 4) Paul is giving final instructions to Timothy because Paul knew he was fast approaching heaven's finish line.    I pose a question to you my friends!    If you knew you were on the last stretch and stride in the race towards heaven's finish line, what is the last advice or words of encouragement would you leave to those you mentor, disciple, fellowship with in your sphere of influence?      

We all should be living as if our tomorrow may never come and today is our last day on earth!   Would you be able to say without a shadow of doubt that you have run the race to the best of your ability and have been obedient to do the "assignments" Father God has asked you to do?   I know, for me, I make a sincere attempt to live today with the idea of fulfilling whatever Father God has asked of me to do in my daily walk with Jesus.      Jesus Christ is the Author and Finisher of my faith and I desire to complete every assignment to the best of my abilities before I am called Home to Heaven.   My personal prayer has been, "Lord, please allow me to complete the work God has asked me to do and may I be able to leave this world when you say "Jay, It's time to go home", knowing that I have been successful in advancing the Kingdom of God during my life here on earth.      

My friends, I pray that you always are found fulfilling all that Father God has assigned you to do and that Jesus Christ is in the center of every area of your life.   Live your life like today is your last day my friends.    Be blessed and be a blessing today. 

Much love, prayers and blessings, 

Jay

 

STANDING IN GOD'S WAITING ROOM! (GOD'S TIMING IS RARELY IN SYNCH WITH OUR WRISTWATCH)

Welcome to 1159AndCountingDown Blog Page 

Isaiah 40:31 "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint".

I remember so vividly watching my mom flutter around the house on a mission to rid the house of hibernating dust bunnies and stale odors.   She would insist that I and my brothers, her four "volunteers" (NOT!), open up all the windows; shake out every rug that wasn't nailed down, and bring out every cleanser and air freshener stored under the sinks in the kitchen, the pantry and the bathroom.

As mom reviews her check-list, you would recognize this familiar scenario as "Spring Cleaning".   But what if my mom would have begun shouting such orders in the middle of Winter?   We would insist that she was in the wrong season in her efforts to do "Her Annual Spring Cleaning" project.   The massive snow drifts that now block your front door due to harsh winter weather would prevent Mom (and her "team") from doing everything that is on "The To-Do List" for the Annual Spring Cleaner.   

Why did I even bring up this story at all?   Because I remember that as the snow and ice began to melt, and the first signs of flower sprouts breaking through and into the full view of the sun, there was an expectation; an excitement that the seasons were changing.  A person would almost have to experience five to six months of a long, cold winter season (ie., Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota, New York, and other states) to understand the excitement and great anticipation of seeing nature awaken like Rip Van Winkle and his long winter's nap.   There were days, when I would sit wrapped in a thick layer of blankets and homemade quilts, longing to see the snow and ice melt away.    As much as I wanted it to happen when I wanted it to happen, it was really all about the Cycle of Seasons which God Himself has determined since the beginning of time.   Speaking of "time"-- no matter how much I desired for Spring to come sooner, it was always on God's Timing...His Perfect Timing, that Spring did finally arrive-- and with Springtime life sprang forth and reminded mankind of just how magnificent and glorious is Our Creator's Artistic Design of Creation. 

Many of us have heard the phrase "All On God's Timing".  Or "God's Timing is Always Perfect".  These well known phrases sound good until a person has to adhere to what really lies behind these sayings-- waiting until God says things will happen.  I realize God is  Omnipotent (All-Knowing) concerning everything in our lives.   He knows what lies ahead for my life and  yet, this doesn't stop me from wanting to get things done on "My Timing".   I sometimes feel as if He is lagging in His timing because it doesn't mesh with when I think, pray or hope things happen.    Admittedly, God's Timing is Always Perfect -- and He is God and I am not so who am I too argue - Right?

Most of my family and friends know that I have often described myself as a "race horse at the starting gate"....just waiting for that Starting Shot to be fired.    I am like that horse caged in and anxiously awaiting for the little gate to spring open so I can dash toward the finish line and win the prize.   I have always been a competitive guy who hits the ground running.  I am a stickler for following the rules, but this doesn't mean that I am not always looking for a fair and honest shortcut or an alternate quicker route. God knows this about my character and I believe this is why often times He doesn't reveal to me too much of His plans for my life because He knows I would take off in a mad dash into my future and try to fulfill everything without seeking His wisdom.     I'm learning, the older I get, that I can no longer tackle tasks and assignments on my own strength--- because my body isn't in its early twenties anyone.  Can anyone else relate?   But there is also the biblical truth found in the holy scripture below:

John 15:5 Jesus says,  "I am the Vine; you are the branches.  If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing".

 So as I enter into this new season in Grand Rapids, Michigan, my childhood stomping grounds, I must allow "God's Timing" to unfold all that He desires for me to do in any assignment He gives me over the next few months.   I also must grow LESS anxious as the Race Horse at the gate-- because God may sound the Starting Shot at any time and I want to be ready and focused to run the race HE has planned out for me-- a race towards "heaven's finish line"with hopes of crossing it with great success.   I also must remember that "Jesus is The VINE and I am a Branch and that as long as I remain connected with Him, and He with me, that I will able to bear much fruit.  However, apart from Him I AM ABLE TO NOTHING!   Duly Note:   This applies to ALL authentic believers and followers of The Lord Jesus Christ!!

I pray that over the next few months I will be able to be a resource of encouragement, inspiration, knowledge and godly insight, and a blessing to all of you who follow this blog page.    

ANNOUNCEMENTS:     I AM BEGINNING A YOUTUBE PODCAST TITLED "THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM" AND MY NEW RADIO PROGRAM CALLED "1159 WITH JAY HUDSON" WHERE I WILL DISCUSS CONTROVERSIAL TOPICS IN TODAY'S SOCIETY, PROVIDE BIBLICAL INSIGHTS AND AS THE HOLY SPIRIT LEADS ME TO DO SO, I WILL ALSO PROVIDE PROPHETIC WORDS.       PLEASE SHARE THIS BLOG SPOT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.  AND I WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS AND OTHER BLOG SPOT ARTICLES.   

MAY FATHER GOD'S FAVOR SHINE UPON YOU EVERYWHERE YOU TO GO!   BE ABUNDANTLY BLESSED AND BE A BLESSING TO SOMEONE TODAY IN JESUS' NAME! 

LOVE, PRAYERS, AND BLESSINGS, 

J.

 

THE GOOD SHEPHERD'S SHEEP KNOW HIS VOICE AND FOLLOW HIM!

Welcome To 1158AndCountingDown Blog Page

Therefore Jesus said again, "Very truly I tell you, I am the Gate for the Sheep.  All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the Sheep have not listened to them".

(John 10:7-8) 

I must preface what I am about to talk about by giving credit to a precious Sister-In-Christ named Brenda Strohbehn Henderson (petalfromthebasket.com).   As I began writing my blog page today, I realized that I have been running around in circles; trying to get everything on my "To Do List" done today.   My personality type is one who sets goals and objectives daily and if I am not successful in fulfilling EVERYTHING on the "To Do List", I feel like I have not had a productive day.     This frustration rolls into the time I attempt to spend time in The SECRET PLACE with Father God.   As much as I would like to say that I discard any of the personal frustration from earlier in the day, I tend to bring a pocketful of disappointment in myself into my fellowship and communion time with Father God.  I am a former semi-professional actor of stage, and as "talented" as I may have thought I was when I was younger (and far better looking LOL), Father God could see right through any attempts to mask my inner frustrations.   There are so many VOICES that continually vying for our attention-- these "Voices", though some have very legitimate things to share, there are other "voices" (what I refer to those inner voices that tend to cause inner turmoil on the battlefield of the mind.   Can anyone out there relate to this?    

Again, may I draw your attention to Blogger and Writer, Sister Brenda, and her beautiful Blog page.  

It was while I was researching to find particular scriptures in the Bible that referred to voices that continue vying for our attention throughout our entire day (and night), that Sister Brenda's Blog Page showed up on my IPAD screen.   As I read her incredible blog addressing the very same issue I was planning to address today in my blog, I felt comforted to know that I was not the only one who has the challenge of following the right voices.  From this point in my blog page, I would like to refer you to this precious sister's website because she so eloquently shares about this same challenge of hearing all of the voices (good and bad) that continue in attempt to pull us away from hearing The Good Shepherd's Voice.   Her website address is as follows:     petalsfromthebasket.com    

THE SHEEP HEAR THEIR SHEPHERD'S VOICE AND FOLLOW:
The Bible describes our relationship with God as in the relationship between JESUS (The Good Shepherd) and WE (The Sheep).    We must understand that the responsibility of a Shepherd (at least in the Middle Eastern Culture) is to protect the sheep from danger and enemies.  The shepherd makes sure  that the sheep have nourishing food to eat and sufficient clean water to drink. But the Middle Eastern agricultural practices are very different than ours are in North America.  There a shepherd does not keep the sheep penned up for 24 hours a day and bring fresh food and clean water to the sheep like we do here.   A Middle Eastern shepherd does not use a dog to herd the sheep like we sometimes do here.  And the Middle Eastern shepherd also does not use a dog to to herd the sheep from pasture to pasture as is done in Australia and New Zealand.  In the Middle East, sheep may be penned up for safety at night. But during the day, the shepherd directs his or her sheep, not with barriers, and not with force, but with his or her voice.  The shepherd talks to the sheep and sheep follow the shepherd because they know the voice of the shepherd.   

JOHN 10:2-4 says, "The ONE WHO ENTERS by the GATE is THE SHEPHERD OF THE SHEEP.   The GATEKEEPER opens the gate for HIM, and the SHEEP LISTEN TO HIS VOICE..  HE CALLS HIS OWN SHEEP BY NAME AND LEADS THEM OUT.  When he has BROUGHT OUT ALL HIS OWN,  HE goes on ahead of them, and HIS SHEEP FOLLOW HIM BECAUSE THEY KNOW HIS VOICE".  (My Emphasis)    

DULY NOTE:   The terms used in this aforementioned passage of scripture:   

1)   The ONE WHO ENTERS by The GATE (Shepherd of the Sheep)

2)  The GATEKEEPER (This is not referring to The Shepherd who is there to bring His Own Sheep out of         the gate of protection during the night hours.   The "Gatekeeper" was an individual who made his or her    
     wages on providing a "Lodging for the Sheep during the night hours)" until The Shepherd Came to          
     Bring His Own Sheep Out.

3)  The SHEEP LISTEN TO HIS (The Shepherd's) VOICE

4)  The Shepherd Calls His Own Sheep BY NAME and LEADS THEM OUT.

5)  When He has brought out ALL HIS OWN, He goes on AHEAD OF THEM; and

6)  HIS SHEEP FOLLOW HIM Because They KNOW HIS VOICE 

In conclusion, my friends, I want to encourage and challenge all of us to pray for great clarity in our ability to hear (and discern) the Voice of The Good Shepherd (JESUS CHRIST).   We all experience MANY other voices that constantly bombard us -- demanding our attention, and although there are some very legitimate voices we should adhere (and tend to) (ie., our spouse, our children, spouse, "paying Cesar what is due Cesar (Bills Y'All) etc.,) we must also be certain that these "voices" (legitimate and those that the enemy will use to distract us from taking the time to get before GOD in THE SECRET PLACE and spend time in quiet fellowship), we DESPERATELY NEED to spend time in(Your "War Room of Prayer), or driving on the way to work....wherever Your Secret Place with God may be)-- More than ever, especially with Heaven's Clock that reads "11:59 and counting down" we need divine Wisdom, Discernment, Encouragement, Holy Insights and Instructions from The Holy Spirit of God in This Final Moment.   

I love you all and pray that I am able to serve as a resource of encouragement, inspiration, blessing (and The Holy Spirit may impart a divine perspective that may challenge you in your daily with Jesus Christ and Almighty God).     I would love to hear from you.  Getting feedback is a great gift to a blogger-- we need the encouragement as much as we desire to encourage you, our readership (my friends).  Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment on this blog site or you can contact me with your comments, thoughts, suggestions, healthy critiques or concerns at:   JHudson1159@gmail. com 

Be blessed and be a blessing to someone else today in Jesus' Name! 

J.