Good morning,

The worst thing you can do is - minimize God’s goodness to make others comfortable - feel guilty for blessings you didn’t earn that God provided and explain away the favor on your life that God has put there. When God blesses you, lifts you, restores you, or favors you - don’t shrink back just because others don’t understand it. Don’t dim the light of God’s goodness to match someone else’s darkness. People may be uncomfortable with your peace, joy, growth, blessings, open doors, and your answered prayers. But you were not called to shrink; instead, you were called to shine. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Living in God’s favor is, without a doubt, the most wonderful, rewarding, reassuring, and stress-free feeling a person can have. The favor of God in your life acts as a shield, bringing peace that surpasses our understanding. When you’re living in God’s favor, you will attract His blessings like a magnet. He will activate the gifts and tools you need to be a blessing to fulfill your calling. Your perspective will change, your focus will change, and the storms and hurdles life will throw at you will seem like mere steppingstones because of His Grace and favor.

When storms come into our lives, which is inevitable, you will find yourself at peace, knowing that God is in control and will show you unwavering love, no matter your current situation. A Prayer of gratitude will help you to acknowledge your blessings and connect deeply with God. Taking a few moments to center ourselves in prayer can cultivate a mindset of gratitude and purpose, helping us approach our daily tasks with renewed vigor and clarity.

Thank you for your continued financial contributions to support the church’s work. Please continue mailing your checks to Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church, 2701 Lee St, Houston, Texas 77026, or use Givelify.com on the church website.

Finally, I would like to leave you with this thought for meditation: “I am not lucky, but I am favored because luck runs out; but God’s favor will abide with me forever.” - Gift Gugu Mona.

Blessings to you and your family,

Pastor Kevin L. Bullock, Sr.