Weird title, I know, but hear me out. After my last post regarding "I told you so's", I felt a need to clarify my position on the former subject matter. When sin is discovered in the life of a Christian or, better yet, anyone, there are ALWAYS consequences. The mark of true repentance is the accepting of these consequences in a humble and willing manner. For example, when King David sinned by laying with another man's wife and having that man killed to cover it up, the Lord sent a prophet to confront and chasten him. After David repented the prophet said an interesting thing... he said, "The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die. Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also [that is] born unto thee shall surely die".
A little harsh, I know. However, as we all have read, whom the Lord loves, he chastens. That's just the principle of being a son or daughter of God Almighty, he gets to spank us. David immediately repented and the Lord immediately forgave him. However, there were still consequences to be dealt with. His son died. Is this grace? Can punishment be a part of mercy? Yes. It is the grace of being mercifully punished by our father that teaches us to obstain from sin. It brings a depth of character and obedience that is vivid and alive.
Now... with that being said, there is an order to how the Lord punishes. He's not going to automatically kill the first born child every time we sin... or else, we'd never have any children live past 1 day old. This is where the church steps in and gives punishment alongside the natural consequences of the actual sin. I say this because every sin comes with an attached bag of it's very own punishment. The sin itself, not the Lord handing you the wrath. Jeremiah eludes to this by saying, "Thy way and thy doings have procured these [things] unto thee; this [is] thy wickedness..." (4:18). In most cases, our own sin punishes us. However, the Lord has also included the punishment of the body including, being corrected by elders, being addressed by 3 or more, and eventually being brought before the congregation.
The FINAL power of the church is to deliver the offender unto Satan. This comes after continuous unrepentance and resistance on the part of the man/woman in question. They have refused and rejected the rebuke of their peers, elders and congregation, thus, the Lord will use his leashed puppet, Lucifer as a tool to correct their folly.
This is the scary last resort that one would hope to never experience... but it is still good. "How", you say? If a church decides not to deliver an unrepentant offender unto Satan, they run the risk of being an enabler to that person's unrepentance. They figure that they have dodged the bullet of full consequence. Let this never be so. It is hard... but it is good. For when a man is cut off from the graces of the Body of Christ and let loose in the world, they are now faced with more confrontation than their are exits... more opponents than friends and more judgement than mercy. They will remember the grace of the Lord and his people (hopefully) and seek to rejoin the flock. Or, they will run far enough away for the Lord to leave His fold, track them down, break their legs and carry them back upon His own shoulders. This is good. For when they return they will have learned humility, like the prodigal son and they will appreciate the graces of their father instead of seeking to manipulate them.
You see, Satan is a tool (dual meaning intended). As we recall with Job, he is only allowed to do what our God allows to happen to his loved ones. He is an unaware servant of God. He can be used to restore even in the midst of seeking to kill, steal and destroy. However, let's remember that this is the HARDEST road of learning in God's kingdom... the easiest being OBEDIENCE. Let's be honest, if we obeyed, we would never be put into this predicament in the first place, right?
Let me now apply the previous statements to some of the posts on message boards, statements from friends and even to my own former blog.
I have read and heard MANY of my brethren making statements like, "Let's pray for quick restoration" and "Man, I'm shocked. I hope this all gets resolved quickly" or even "Dag... how long is the 'sit down' process gonna be?" These are all good, honest, caring statements and desires. However, what if the man in question is unrepentant? What if he's just sorry he got caught? What if he attempts to flee the situation and not own up to his own embarrassment? Should we be praying for a speedy recovery because of who we all thought this man to be? Absolutely not. We should pray that the Lord take ALL the time He needs to, not only be restored, but for the root cause of the original sin to be obliterated from this persons character. We should pray for all of the consequences of his sin to find him out, and be used a conduits of instruction and character building. We should pray that, if need be, our Good Shepherd would break his legs and carry him back. This is the heart of love. I once heard a father pray for his daughter in this manner...
Lord, I desire to pray that you would save my daughter quickly. But, if you need to, take here through the darkest valleys. Allow here to experience whatever it is that she needs to in order for her to come to you broken. Even if she has to be out in the world, sleeping in a car and brought to her greatest despair. As long as she winds up in your loving arms with a true desire to be saved. Let your will be done.
Crazy thing is, this man's daughter actually wound up sleeping in the backseat of a car and wandering in the world before coming to repentance. But, when she came, it was with honest, true and humble brokenness. And we know the Lord LOVES a broken and contrite heart. Let this be our prayer... Lord YOUR WILL BE DONE.
One other thought to consider. Why is it that when someone whom we don't agree with, have doctrinal quams with, have disagreements on methods of ministry or a person we just don't like falls, we are like... "Well, he deserved it... I knew that dude was shady... It was only a matter of time... If he hadn't (this that and the third) maybe he wouldn't have fallen"? And yet, when someone we IDOLIZE (sin) falls, we are on some... "I don't believe it... I'm so broken... I hope that they are restored quickly... I pray for the best and hope that he (fluff, fluff, fluff)"? Is this not hypocrisy? Is this not a double standard? Seems a little suspect to me. Just a thought.
Thanks for reading.
Please share your questions and comments.
Grace and Peace
muzeONE
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
I Told You So's...
I received some very grieving news this week. Another man has fallen. Fallen into a sin that seems to capture men like a Siren wooing her victims in at a gradual pace and devouring them without warning. It is a crafty sin... one that all honest, God-fearing men swear they will never fall prey to, yet all to often, is the downfall of mighty hearts.
How should I take this news? To be honest, I have had mixed feelings since I received it. Many thoughts have ran through my head, varying from arrogant ones that separate myself from every falling into this trap, to angry ones that are weary and tired of hearing the same story again and again. These are thoughts that are best held captive and given to God, for they are evil and have wicked intentions.
However, one of the most logical thoughts to have, yet the most devastatingly wicked perspectives, is the every ready "kick-you-while-you're-down" phrase... I TOLD YOU SO! This phrase has been the determining factor between the restoration and condemnation of many fallen men for ages. It is logical in our own thinking to observe a trend, identify it and glory in that early sighting when the event actually occurs. However, in this case, one should find themselves not wanting to utter such words, for a pure heart should never desire to see a brother fall. If these words are uttered, does it not show a heart of bitterness that would rather relish the chance to mock a wounded solider than help him to his feet? Are we not called ministers of peace, love and reconciliation? Or should we be able to speak our mind in a manner that can further harm that injured brother? After all, it is a free country and we do have the freedom of speech, right?
Its not often that I quote this verse, but I believe that it does apply in this situation. The Bible says, "The power of life and death are in the tongue..." During this pivotal time in a man's life, it is important to remember this when applying ANY sort of commentary to his current situation. Will an "I TOLD YOU SO" change anything? Will it benefit? Will it help restore a broken heart that is truly repentant of sin? Absolutely not.
With this particular situation, I myself observed some trends surrounding this brother that were warning signs of a potential error in the future. I had even received much criticism and flack for speaking my mind on a flaw in his character that was dangerous, in my mind. So, am I able to say "I TOLD YOU SO"? No... because, to be honest, I never could have seen this coming, nor would I ever wish this on this man or his family and loved ones. So, I didn't call it... I didn't want to. It never crossed my mind. I would be lying if I said, "I TOLD YOU SO"... which, by the way, is a sin (lying) worthy of the same consequences of this man's sin in the eyes of God. Let us not forget this.
And let us ALL remember this other truth... WE ARE ALL MADE OF THE SAME DIRT AND SUSCEPTIBLE TO THE SAME SINS. You could sit on a high and mighty seat saying, "I would never..." or "Well, he deserved it..." but you are treading upon the wrath of God with that mindset. Granted, I have heard that there are a multitude of brethren that claim to have been hurt or offended by this individual. So, in the world, one could expect to hear some shouts of rejoicing for the downfall of the offender. BUT... as I previously mentioned... are we not called ministers of peace, love and reconciliation? ARE WE NOT CHRISTIANS? We are NEVER given the right to behave like the world. There are NO grounds for glorying in the fall of a family member, EVEN IF he has offended you. As a matter of fact, you are in the wrong for having stored up such bitterness in your heart, making you as guilty as your offender!
Brethren... let us pray for the afflicted, for the poor in spirit, for those who are ashamed of their sins. Let us speak words of encouragement, of love, of restoration and of life. We have no grounds for I TOLD YOU SO's. In fact, the only one who every owns the right to that statement is GOD ALMIGHTY himself... a phrase which he could easily speak to you every time you fall, yet out of love, never does. Let us remember that we have been forgiven a great debt, and we are now required to forgive much. Love your neighbor. Pray for him and rejoice in his restoration, not his failure.
How should I take this news? To be honest, I have had mixed feelings since I received it. Many thoughts have ran through my head, varying from arrogant ones that separate myself from every falling into this trap, to angry ones that are weary and tired of hearing the same story again and again. These are thoughts that are best held captive and given to God, for they are evil and have wicked intentions.
However, one of the most logical thoughts to have, yet the most devastatingly wicked perspectives, is the every ready "kick-you-while-you're-down" phrase... I TOLD YOU SO! This phrase has been the determining factor between the restoration and condemnation of many fallen men for ages. It is logical in our own thinking to observe a trend, identify it and glory in that early sighting when the event actually occurs. However, in this case, one should find themselves not wanting to utter such words, for a pure heart should never desire to see a brother fall. If these words are uttered, does it not show a heart of bitterness that would rather relish the chance to mock a wounded solider than help him to his feet? Are we not called ministers of peace, love and reconciliation? Or should we be able to speak our mind in a manner that can further harm that injured brother? After all, it is a free country and we do have the freedom of speech, right?
Its not often that I quote this verse, but I believe that it does apply in this situation. The Bible says, "The power of life and death are in the tongue..." During this pivotal time in a man's life, it is important to remember this when applying ANY sort of commentary to his current situation. Will an "I TOLD YOU SO" change anything? Will it benefit? Will it help restore a broken heart that is truly repentant of sin? Absolutely not.
With this particular situation, I myself observed some trends surrounding this brother that were warning signs of a potential error in the future. I had even received much criticism and flack for speaking my mind on a flaw in his character that was dangerous, in my mind. So, am I able to say "I TOLD YOU SO"? No... because, to be honest, I never could have seen this coming, nor would I ever wish this on this man or his family and loved ones. So, I didn't call it... I didn't want to. It never crossed my mind. I would be lying if I said, "I TOLD YOU SO"... which, by the way, is a sin (lying) worthy of the same consequences of this man's sin in the eyes of God. Let us not forget this.
And let us ALL remember this other truth... WE ARE ALL MADE OF THE SAME DIRT AND SUSCEPTIBLE TO THE SAME SINS. You could sit on a high and mighty seat saying, "I would never..." or "Well, he deserved it..." but you are treading upon the wrath of God with that mindset. Granted, I have heard that there are a multitude of brethren that claim to have been hurt or offended by this individual. So, in the world, one could expect to hear some shouts of rejoicing for the downfall of the offender. BUT... as I previously mentioned... are we not called ministers of peace, love and reconciliation? ARE WE NOT CHRISTIANS? We are NEVER given the right to behave like the world. There are NO grounds for glorying in the fall of a family member, EVEN IF he has offended you. As a matter of fact, you are in the wrong for having stored up such bitterness in your heart, making you as guilty as your offender!
Brethren... let us pray for the afflicted, for the poor in spirit, for those who are ashamed of their sins. Let us speak words of encouragement, of love, of restoration and of life. We have no grounds for I TOLD YOU SO's. In fact, the only one who every owns the right to that statement is GOD ALMIGHTY himself... a phrase which he could easily speak to you every time you fall, yet out of love, never does. Let us remember that we have been forgiven a great debt, and we are now required to forgive much. Love your neighbor. Pray for him and rejoice in his restoration, not his failure.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Peanut Butter, Gospel Music, Industry and New Homies.
After a long weekend in Nashville, attending the opening weekend of the Gospel Music Awards Week, I had a few thoughts that I wanted to drop on ya'll. First of all, much love and respect to my Illect and Scribbling Idiots family. You dudes gave me an awesome experience and much needed fellowship, not to mention writing inspiration.
I have never been a fan of gospel award shows. They seem to me an event where we throw away our heavenly rewards in exchange for earthy recognition and praise. However, this weekend presented a great opportunity to meet and greet brothers and sisters on all levels of the music industry. This is both good and bad. Good when you meet a person and either gain respect or further the respect you already had for that persons music and message. Bad when you see Christian family members behaving like the world for the sake of their 15 mins of fame.
The Peanut Butter & Jelly party was the highlight of my weekend. Big up to Syntax, Illect and all the sponsors for putting on an honest, real, raw, banging concert. I had a chance to meet and build with a few of my favorite artists. Propaganda and Odd Thomas impressed me with both their humility and ability to melt the faces of their audience during their performances. Sintax the Terrific and his crew Caramel Skillington wrecked shop. My new crew, Scribbling Idiots had a very amazing performance. Imagine a mob of talent spewing from the stage... it was ill to say the least. The headliners had some hard acts to follow, however, Kaboose, RedCloud and my man Braille Brizzy all lived up to the challenge.
Overall, this was exactly what I needed. With most of the relationships that I have in Philly left at a stalemate, it was encouraging to see the beginnings of real, honest, transparent friendships with dudes who are much more talented than myself. It was a confirmation of my recent decision to align myself with these cats in ministry and music. God is great in redeeming wasted time and refreshing fellowship and family. Any questions? Hit me up... info@muze1.com
Grace and Peace
I have never been a fan of gospel award shows. They seem to me an event where we throw away our heavenly rewards in exchange for earthy recognition and praise. However, this weekend presented a great opportunity to meet and greet brothers and sisters on all levels of the music industry. This is both good and bad. Good when you meet a person and either gain respect or further the respect you already had for that persons music and message. Bad when you see Christian family members behaving like the world for the sake of their 15 mins of fame.
The Peanut Butter & Jelly party was the highlight of my weekend. Big up to Syntax, Illect and all the sponsors for putting on an honest, real, raw, banging concert. I had a chance to meet and build with a few of my favorite artists. Propaganda and Odd Thomas impressed me with both their humility and ability to melt the faces of their audience during their performances. Sintax the Terrific and his crew Caramel Skillington wrecked shop. My new crew, Scribbling Idiots had a very amazing performance. Imagine a mob of talent spewing from the stage... it was ill to say the least. The headliners had some hard acts to follow, however, Kaboose, RedCloud and my man Braille Brizzy all lived up to the challenge.
Overall, this was exactly what I needed. With most of the relationships that I have in Philly left at a stalemate, it was encouraging to see the beginnings of real, honest, transparent friendships with dudes who are much more talented than myself. It was a confirmation of my recent decision to align myself with these cats in ministry and music. God is great in redeeming wasted time and refreshing fellowship and family. Any questions? Hit me up... info@muze1.com
Grace and Peace
Thursday, April 2, 2009
THE BODY OF CHRIST EP- REDEEMED THOUGHT
This was first released back in '02. Some cats were asking for it, so here it is. Enjoy.
CLICK HERE!!!
CLICK HERE!!!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
FEBRUARY BEAT CLEARANCE EXTRAVAGANZA!!!
What's up brethren? It's a new year and I'm selling all my beats to make room for new material. This is also a fund raiser of sorts... I'm trying to make it to GMA this year with the ILLECT familia. But, having a wife and kid keeps my loot on lock! So come support a brotha and cop a beat! Over 20+ tracks to choose from....
WWW.SOUNDCLICK.COM/SOMEDUDE
WWW.MUZE1.COM/BEATS.HTM
ALL BEATS ONLY $50 FOR STEREO AND $100 FOR MULTI TRACK.
DON'T SLEEP, THIS SALE ENDS ON FEBRUARY 22nd!
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE!
thanks again brethren.
Grace and Peace
muzeONE
www.muze1.com
www.myspace.com/muzeONE
www.myspace.com/somedude215
www.soundclick.com/somedude
WWW.SOUNDCLICK.COM/SOMEDUDE
WWW.MUZE1.COM/BEATS.HTM
ALL BEATS ONLY $50 FOR STEREO AND $100 FOR MULTI TRACK.
DON'T SLEEP, THIS SALE ENDS ON FEBRUARY 22nd!
FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE!
thanks again brethren.
Grace and Peace
muzeONE
www.muze1.com
www.myspace.com/muzeONE
www.myspace.com/somedude215
www.soundclick.com/somedude
Monday, February 9, 2009
The Proposal EP
I recently reworked the design of the website and had to take down the proposal. So, seeing that people are still looking for it, click HERE.
Enjoy.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
WELCOME
Thanks for tuning in. This is the OFFICIAL blog of hip hop emcee muzeONE. I will be posting updates, release dates, news, exclusive music and random thoughts here frequently, so keep it locked. Grace and Peace.
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