GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE ….

“While You Are Waiting”

“Pay attention! I’m getting ready to give you some instructions!” – Rev. Seymore Brice

Rev. Seymore Brice proceeded to give us instructions on what to do while waiting for Christ’s return, because … “The Son of Man is coming!”

“Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”            – Matthew 24:42 (NIV)

We are being warned to keep watch. Therefore, we must prepare ourselves for His return by watching what we say – how we say it – when we say it. We must also watch where we go – what we do – and who we are with. Ready or not – He is returning! We don’t know the day nor the hour because time belongs to God.

“If you stay ready – you don’t have to get ready!” – Rev. Seymore Brice

Pay attention to the Word of God. Listen attentively as your pastor – preacher – teacher is giving you a Word for your soul – your deliverance – your heart. Live the Word as you eat, drink, sleep. Guard your heart with the Word of God.

“Serving the Lord will pay off after a while.” – Rev. Seymore Brice

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I am come that they may have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10 (KJV)

“Guard your heart – pay attention – then look straight ahead!” – Rev. Seymore Brice

The life Jesus gives us is richer, fuller, eternal and begins when you accept Him. After you accept Him look straight ahead – no turning back. He is paving the Way – keep moving forward – keep preparing for His return. Stay ready while you are waiting…and…

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE …

“In Control ”

It’s common for one to believe that they are in control of their life – their situations – their company, etc. Whatever we take ownership of, we like to believe that we are also in control of. Actually – what is control? Control is the power to influence or direct one’s (people’s) behavior or course of events.

“You’re out of control!” “Control your tongue!” “Control your speech!” “Control yourself!”

Control is a sharp word. Let’s substitute the word – manage. Manage: in charge of – supervise – oversee – direct – guide – run. Run! How often do you overhear someone saying: “All she does is run her mouth!” Oops! Maybe I’ll leave out the word run as it relates to managing our mouth since it has a negative connotation.

Pastor Brice has been teaching on managing our tongues for a while now. This leads me to believe that this is something, I personally, need to work on. This is critical. He wants me, and others in our congregation to get under good Management with our tongues.

“The tongue of the righteous know what is acceptable and pleasing to God.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Our tongue is one of the many non-deserving gifts that God has graced us with. Let’s manage our gift to show appreciation and honor Him with tongues that are uplifting and motivating. When used righteously the tongue is like choice silver.

“The tongue of the righteous is choice silver.” – Proverbs 10:20 (NIV)

“Don’t replace the Word of God with something else.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Remain steadfast in the Word and choose your words wisely as you speak. Use words that will make Satan run. Use the Word of God! Yes, making Satan run is winning. Don’t you enjoy being on the winning team? Feels good, doesn’t it? Makes you smile? Well, keep smiling and keep on winning!

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

HELLO FROM THE TEMPLE …

“Take Ownership!”

Take ownership! These words were spoken by our pastor, Rev. Victor S. Brice, during our Tuesday night Bible study. Subject: “Managing Our Tongues”.

“God holds us responsible for the words we speak – take ownership!” – Pastor V.S. Brice

“You must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.”                            – Matthew 12:36 (NLT)

We are all guilty of using inappropriate words from time to time that may stem from anger, frustration, or envy. We will, most times, apologize to the person whom we’ve offended. But, do you realize that the words you speak are not a “slip of the tongue”?

“The heart speaks when no one is listening.”

“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”                                        – Psalm 119:11 (NLT)

Your mind – heart – and tongue are a team. What’s on your mind comes from your heart and will eventually roll off your tongue. To remember this is to better prepare – better equip – your heart with the Word of God. You may hear this often: “Stay in the Word!” “Seek the Word!” “Live the Word!” “Get the Word in your heart!”

“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you.”                     – Psalm 19:14 (NLT) 

This is a good Scripture to pray every morning – pray daily – because during a 24-hour period we are bound to say something that will not be pleasing to the Lord. Trust the Lord to guide you!

“Spoken words can never be retrieved. They can be repaired through repentance and forgiveness.”            – Pastor V.S. Brice

You are remembered by the words you speak. God gave us our tongues to be used for His Glory. Therefore, say what is pleasing and good – say what edifies God – and own what you say because ……

“The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” – Matthew 12:37 (NLT)

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

HELLO FROM THE TEMPLE …

“How Are You?”

Fine? Are you feeling rested after a good night’s sleep and ready to start a new day? How is your spiritual health? How is your tongue?

“Your speech reveals what kind of Christian you are. Your tongue is an indicator of your Christian spiritual health.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.”           – James 3:10 (NIV)

Our tongues have more power than we realize. An unhealthy tongue has the power to cut down and destroy. An unhealthy tongue will affect your physical health as well as your emotional – mental – and spiritual health. Hateful words have a negative impact on your spiritual health.

“What comes out of your mouth determines your direction: life or destruction.”                                            – Pastor V.S. Brice

“The tongue has the power of life and death.” – Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)

What starts in your mind will gravitate to your heart. What’s in your heart will roll off your tongue. Your mind, heart, and tongue all affect your spiritual health. We are dead to Christ when we sin. We must turn from sin and use our tongues to speak life into a situation – to speak Truth.

“When you meet someone let them talk – eventually their speech will reveal who they really are.”            – Pastor V. S. Brice

Your speech reveals what kind of Christian you are. Since God has predestined us to be conformed to the likeness of His Son, we should always be mindful of this and use our tongues accordingly. The Bible is our Instruction Manual for living. Therefore, we must stop hiding It in plain sight. Take your Bible off that bookcase and read It. His Word is meant to be read – to be heard – and His Instructions are meant to be followed.

We all must stop hindering God and stay steadfast in His Word. We must let the Word of God manage our thoughts and our tongue will follow. Then our Christian spiritual health will be beyond reproach.

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE …

“Are You Bonded?”

No, I’m not speaking to a group of people who arrange bail or a group of contractors. As we all know, to be bonded is to be connected – cemented – glued – secured. I’m speaking to Christians who attend church on a regular basis. Therefore, a better question: Are you bonded to a church? Are you bonded to Christ?

Our Sunday Leadership class was about: “Bonding People to The Church”. Did you know that we are all responsible for bonding people to the church?

“A healthy church member bonds with people.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Pastor Brice gave us a list of signs of a healthy church member: Read: Philippians 1:3-8

• You think of other members often. (Philippians 1:3)
• You pray for each other. (Philippians 1:4)
• You fellowship often. (Philippians 1:5)
• You have confidence in God that He is bonding us together. (Philippians 1:6)
• You love one another. (Philippians 1:7)
• You long to be with the church. (Philippians 1:8)

Think on this for a moment. We often leave the bonding of people to the church up to others. You may even have a hospitality group in your church that does this. However, everyone associated with the church has the responsibility to bond with each other – to share the goodness of God with each other. Whether a new member or an established member of the church.

“And don’t forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16 (NIV)

Smiling – saying: “Good morning!” – giving Christian hugs or handshakes – just breaks the surface of fellowshipping and bonding. Why? Do you even know the name of the person you just gave a hug or handshake? Their status: single – married – children – grandchildren – or if students: school – college, etc.? How can you be of encouragement to someone if you don’t really know them? Yes, I’m speaking to me also, because I’m guilty of this.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Stop being a back-seat driver – get in the driver’s seat. Be the one bonding. Get behind the helm of the ship – don’t let the ship sail without you. You’re the captain – let God direct you! Follow His instructions. Embody the signs of a healthy church member. Read: Philippians 1:3-8. Bond!

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE …

“Have You Looked in The Mirror Lately?”

When is the last time you’ve looked in the mirror? Take a moment …. look in the mirror…. I mean really look at yourself. What do you see? How would you describe yourself? How would others describe you?

Does your outer personality match your inner – dormant – personality? Yes, we all have two personalities. One we display – the other lies dormant. Be aware of your dormant personality. Your personal goal as a Christian should be to bring your dormant personality up to par with your outer personality. Ok, wait for it ..…… wait for it …….. How would God describe you?  My – my – my!

As a people, our opinions of ourselves will lean towards the higher end of friendliness and goodness. Whereas, others may not see you at that level. But, God!  During our Thursday Night Bible Study, Pastor Brice used the mirror as an analogy for God’s Word.

“The Word of God is a Mirror – stay in the Mirror of God’s Word.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Our actions should mirror God’s Word. Can others see the Mirror in you? Our pastor has been diligently teaching us the Word – patiently leading us through Scripture with explanation and illustration. Are you getting It?

“God’s Word will show you things – will reveal who you really are.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

“So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God.” – 1 Corinthians 4:1 (NIV)

We are servants – stewards – and God has entrusted us with much. Everything – and I do mean everything, belongs to God. Every place – every possession – every provision. We are simply His managers.

“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”

– 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV)

Let His Light illuminate your faithfulness – loyalty – trustworthiness. Give Him your “hallelujah” praise – give Him your, “Yes, Lord!”   Share your time – talent – treasure with Him – with others.  Stay in the Mirror – ensure a reveal of a faithful follower of Christ.

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE …

“Do You Need an Upgrade?”

An upgrade can be in the physical, mental, or spiritual. Although most of us, myself included, might be due for an upgrade or renewal in all three categories this writing is centered on spiritual upgrade.

Pastor Brice is taking us through a series of teachings on witnessing – winning souls to Christ – spreading the gospel. Although this may seem simple – easy enough – there are barriers that may make it difficult or may even prevent you from spreading the gospel – from witnessing to the unsaved.

“If we don’t see the need for God in others, we’ll never share the gospel.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

This is a barrier in the form of apathy and lack of compassion. Other barriers include but are not limited to lack of gospel knowledge and fear. Before you can rid yourself of these barriers you must first acknowledge them. Then move on to upgrading your walk with Christ.

• Lack of gospel knowledge: You must go through the process of reading – studying – understanding the Word. You can’t share the Word until you’ve processed the Word.
• Apathy: Stop being apathetic. Some of us don’t care enough about others therefore we don’t share the gospel. Get to know your neighbors, care about them. Share!
• Fear: We’re afraid that we might quote the wrong Scripture and by doing so, turn others away from rather than towards the gospel. Learn Scripture that will capture the heart of the unsaved: John 3:16 (“God so loved the world….”)   Romans 3:23 (“For all have sinned…..”)    Romans 10:9 (“That if you confess with your mouth ………..”)   Romans 10:13 (“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord…”)   Revelations 3:20 (“To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me…….)   Get rid of the fear. Make your witnessing Scripture based.
• Lack of compassion: We’ve lost the ability to “walk in another man’s shoes” – to feel his hurt – to feel his pain. Again, get to know your neighbor. This will allow you to walk in his shoes – to feel compassion. Then you will freely share the gospel.

“By the renewing of our minds we get transformed from the inside out.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Upgrade your spiritual walk with the Lord

1. Upgrade your confessions – words. Psalm 19:14 – “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight…”
2. Upgrade your conscious – mind. Keep you mind stayed on Jesus – stayed on the Word.
3. Upgrade your commitment. Proverbs 16:3 – “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”
4. Upgrade your confidence. Staying committed to the Word will build your confidence. Philippians 1:6 – “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
5. Upgrade your connections. Watch the company you keep. Stop fooling with people who have a worldly mind-set. 2 Corinthians 6:17 – “Therefore come out from them and be separate.”

Connect with STMI. Get under the teachings of Pastor Victor S. Brice. Upgrade your spiritual walk: confession – conscious – commitment – confidence – connections.

Spread the Gospel (and) Stay Connected!

Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE …

“Why Are You Holding the Word Hostage?”

If you’re not sharing the Word of God, you’re holding the Word hostage. What will it take for you to commit to sharing the Word of God?

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” – Psalm 119:11 (NIV)

Keeping God’s Word in your heart is a deterrent to sin. What’s in your heart will be at the forefront of your actions. Let God’s Word be your guide. God has called us to share His Word with others.

“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.’” – Mark 16:15 (NIV)

“We must stop concealing the Word.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Sinning comes easy to us because it’s in our nature to sin. Sharing the Word of God should come easy to us as well, because that is what we are called to do. Don’t be afraid, as I’ve been, of quoting Scripture incorrectly. Personally, I’m now committed to memorizing Scripture that will help in my witnessing to others.

“How many of us can quote 10 Scriptures?    5 Scriptures?” – Pastor V.S. Brice

“But the word of God continued to increase and spread.” – Acts 12:24 (NIV)

Members of the early church worked diligently in spreading the gospel. It is now our time to work diligently in sharing the Word along with our gifts (treasures) – talents – time.

“The Word is meant to be shared!   The Word is waiting on us to release It.”  – Pastor V.S. Brice

Do you need a hostage negotiator for the Word?

Pastor Victor S. Brice, STMI preacher – teacher, son – father, brother – friend, will share a Word with the weak – strong, sick – healthy, old – young, that will prick your heart – enter your soul – lift you up! Let the Word go forth! Don’t doubt It – Shout It!  Don’t spare It – Share It!

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

HELLO FROM THE TEMPLE …

“What Kind of Fruit Are You?”

Pastor Brice is teaching on: “Repentance”. Repentance is change – a change of heart – a change of mind-set – a change in your attitude. Your change should show in your actions. Others should be able to see the change in you.

“The evidence of your repentance should show in your fruit.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

Let your known actions precede you into a room. Although as Christians we are not here to show-case (so to speak) but our actions should say a lot about our Christian way of life. Our actions will take a “hit” when they don’t match our beliefs.

“Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” – Matthew 3:8 (NIV)

“Repentance produces fruit – We should be change-making fruit.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

What kind of fruit are you?

Your immediate thoughts were on fresh produce. Right? Or your thoughts may have gone wild and rested on: fruit cake. Don’t even go there! We’ve all heard the term: “Nutty as a fruit cake!”  Although humor is a way to relax and have fun with any situation, lets stick to the Spiritual.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

The Fruit of the Spirit – beneficial Fruit – life sustaining Fruit – Fruit to live by. Do you see where I’m going with this? Fruit is the Word of God. Let Fruit be your sustenance! Let repentance – your change – be evident as you live by the Fruit of the Holy Spirit!

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan

GREETINGS FROM THE TEMPLE …

“A Win – Win Situation”

In our Sunday Leadership Class, we are studying from the book: “Winning the Winnable: Friendship Evangelism” – by Elmer Towns. This past Sunday our discussion was on “Targeting Receptive-Responsive People”.

Our goal as disciples or evangelist is to communicate the gospel – share the Good News with those who need it –and win souls to Christ. When communicating the gospel, we must get everyone to understand that:

• God loves them. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NIV)
• We all have a need for the gospel. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23 (NIV)
• We all must be saved. “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” – Romans 10:13 (NIV)

“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.’” – Mark 16:15 (NIV)

Our most likely converts will be the people we are close to or have daily contact with. Such as: friends – relatives – associates – neighbors. Why? Because these are the groups of people who know you and will most likely trust what you have to say.

“Win the person – they win the Message.” – Pastor V.S. Brice

When someone is receptive to you, they will more than likely be receptive to or have a willingness to consider the Message. This puts you in a “win-win situation”. You will win them while they win the Message. Their souls will be saved! Trusting – believing – and obeying God is a win-win situation.

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Solomon Temple Ministries International – Blogger – Othella Hill-Jordan