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Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 (ESV) Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. Proverbs 13:20 (ESV) Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, Proverbs 22:24 (ESV)   In our current society, social media is very popular and made even more so by various influencers. The definition of an influencer is this: “a person who has the power to affect others’ purchasing decisions or actions because of their authority, knowledge, position, or relationship with their audience, typically achieved through content on social media.” Being an influencer is not necessarily bad but, it can be harmful depending on your platform - what you are influencing others to do or believe in. Have you ever stopped to think how incredibly different this world would be if everyone became an influencer for God and spread His messages throughout the world.   To be an influencer for God, a person needs to keep a connection with Him, have a desire to live by His precepts, and look to have positive interactions with everyone they meet. People may not have been called influencers in Bible times but, many of the faithful witnesses throughout the Bible, who adhere to God‘s precepts on right living and behavior, were influencers for His ministry of spreading the gospel to the entire world.   Currently in this world, we are bombarded constantly with selfish thoughts, unholy sexual pleasures, money/greed, hate, prejudice, misogynistic ideals, and the list can go on and on. We have constant influence and/or are being influenced by all types of propaganda, from political, monetary, racial, ethnic, etc. People are being influenced to believe in groups and/or movements whose entire agenda is to cause division and hate; ideals that definitely go against God’s word. People seek to join/listen to these negative/detrimental influencers for several reasons; one being they need to belong and, feel they have found it within these fringe groups. The problem is, no other individual or group/movement will satisfy the longing and desire for connection, except God. This world and all its vices will always keep one searching and scratching trying to fill a void that only God can.   As we move forward in life, I pray that all of us develop a strong connection and desire to be close to God, to continue studying His word, and applying its truth to our lives. I pray we will all look to be daily influencers for God in our part of the world.   Blessings Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

“Judge not, that you be not judged. Matthew 7:1 (ESV ) For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Romans 3:23 (ESV) Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV)   In our world and society today, many people look to point to others and their faults rather than focus on their own problems and shortcomings. Since the beginning of time until now, many have avoided their own negative choices/situations by trying to shine a light on others and their sinful choices. Everyone has issues and problems in their life that they need to focus on and work on. No sinful human being is perfect. No one who has lived, is living now, or who will live in the future, has the right to look down upon others because of their lifestyle and their choices. Of course, one may be concerned with the choices people make and the ripple effects those detrimental choices bring. But it still does not give anyone the right to condemn another because of their mistakes. Instead, we all must turn our attention to and focus on our lives and the choices we have made or have failed to make.   I love to use the analogy of a garden. In a garden, there will be soil, fertilizer, water, and plants. In addition, there will be weeds and thistles that grow along with the plants. Now, the focus of the gardener would be to pull the weeds and thistles that have grown, thereby preventing them from choking the healthy plants that keep them from growing. So, in using this analogy, we need to imagine we have a spiritual garden where we are the gardener. Our focus needs to be tending to our “weeds and thistles” or rather, our own sins and shortcomings. In doing so, we do not have time to look at others or point out their faults/problems when we have enough of our own.   It does not make one look good when they make fun of or point out the faults of others. Besides what people think of that type of behavior, know for certain that God is definitely not pleased. Our focus and concentration should be connecting and staying connected to God and His principles; and on how to live on this Earth with one another. Our energy needs to be on using our gifts and talents (in a Godly manner) that reach out to others and shine God‘s light of love, hope, and peace to this dark and sinful world.   I pray our focus will be on our own shortcomings and not on pointing fingers and looking down on others. If anything, may we lift them in prayer and if possible, turn and help them in their time of need. God wants us to have love and empathy for each other and, to share our lives as a witness of His grace, forgiveness, and the blessings He has given. When you focus on your faults, your sins, and your shortcomings, you will have no time to fixate on anyone else.   Blessings Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

For the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:20 (ESV) Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27 (ESV) Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” Romans 12:19 (ESV)   In speaking with family members, friends, and colleagues, recently over the latest news reports, people are extremely frustrated, upset, and angry. In truth, it seems clear in this country (the United States) as well as other parts of the world, there is blatant neglect of individuals and their rights, as well as favoritism towards one group of people and injustice towards others.   I, too, have experienced growing distress regarding the current state of our world. However, upon a thorough examination of the pressing issues, I recognize that while the recent events are concerning, they are not isolated incidents. The historical abuses perpetrated against certain groups over centuries have contributed to the current situation. In times of intense anger, it is natural to feel the urge to lash out as a means of venting our pain, frustration, and anguish. However, as children of God, it is imperative that we seek guidance from the Bible and follow its principles regarding our anger.   However, as God’s children, it is during these times especially, that we must look to the Bible and follow what it says about dealing with anger. We must allow God’s word to help us understand these feelings of bitterness and rage, and how to move forward and not display these emotions in a harmful way toward others. We need to live a life where we are not holding onto negative emotions that will weigh us down mentally, emotionally, as well as physically. We need to give our anger, hurt, and pain to God, and allow Him to carry our burdens as stated in Psalm 55:22, “Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you”.   We must remember that God is clear when He says vengeance is His and He will repay. In our human, finite minds, we do not understand the greater picture of what is, or what will happen throughout life. We must trust God, His process, and His timing, to handle difficult people and/or situations. It is ultimately not up to us to fix a situation or make a person or group of people do right. In addition, we also cannot seek vengeance for a wrong that we or others have endured. As we allow God to handle difficult people/situations, God wants us to seek to walk in love, kindness, and forgiveness. Will it be easy? Absolutely not! The most difficult thing we need to do, is to trust God and allow Him to handle the troubling situation.   As we move forward, remember to always stand for the right and do the right thing as this is what God requires of us. During these hard and challenging times, we need not to shrink back, but to stand up for what is right. We need to control our tempers and allow our actions to be nonviolent and our behavior to always show humility, honesty, and love.   Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.   Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:17-18 (NLT)   In today’s society in the United States, as well as the rest of the world, it is so easy to come across individuals and/or groups of people who will disturb your peace! Whether it is their bigotry and hatred towards you or other groups, their anger with life in general, and looking to project it onto others, whether they have lost jobs and are having financial difficulties, or whether they are dealing with sickness and various other stressors, the list can go on and on. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul says clearly in Romans 16:17b-18 (NLT), “Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people's faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ, our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests.   When you encounter difficult people, it depends on who they are and how you handle the situation. For example, if they are close family members, try to have healthy boundaries in place when having to interact with them. The same goes for friends, co-workers, and those in educational spaces. Sometimes you must interact with these individuals consistently but, do what you can to keep healthy boundaries in place and limit whenever possible, your interaction with them. Unless God is specifically telling you to witness to these people, keep your distance so that their toxicity will not infect you. As God commands us in Proverbs 22:24 (NLT), we are not to associate or befriend angry/hot-tempered people; that includes listening to their lies, their spreading vitriol, their division, and hate.   Continue praying and asking God for patience and strength for when you do encounter and deal with mean-spirited/evil people. In addition to praying for yourself, also seek to diligently pray on their behalf as well. Ask the Father to open their eyes and their hearts for them to see the error of their ways.   As for you, look to live peacefully with everyone as stated in the opening verse. God expects all His children to behave in this manner. You can seek to witness to these individuals but understand, you cannot change them. They must want to change and turn away from their evil ways. You cannot control others but, you can control your thoughts, your actions, and your response when you encounter such individuals. Look to always be a blessing and spread God’s messages of love, hope, and faith, throughout this world. Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

The following post was first shared in July of 2020. In the current state of our world, I thought to share it again and add a little to the original post.   The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. Job 33:4 (ESV)   Have you ever broken down how many seconds of life, you have each day? In a 24-hour period, we have 86,400 seconds of life. Now that you know, what are you doing with this precious gift that God has given you? If you and I are blessed to wake up and read this message, we were given another chance at 86,400 seconds of life. What are you going to do? How are you going to live? What positive impact are you going to make on God's world? What positive impact on another person's life, as God's Ambassador, are you going to undertake?   So many times, we use our seconds for our own selfish reasons and personal gains. God allows us to do this however, He also gives us free choice, to make a difference in this world, for Him.                      Some may say I don't know what to do or I don’t know how to use my talents. But if we look around, we can definitely see where help is needed. Look first to the needs of your own family, friends, church/church members, neighbors, and co-workers; to see where you can be of assistance.      Then perhaps turn your attention to programs that feed/clothe the homeless. Or join reading and teaching programs for all ages. Orphanages may need assistance with funds, clothes, or fun activities for the children. There are programs for helping the elderly with their various needs. The elderly would love someone to come by and visit with them, read to them, or sing/play an instrument. There are also various programs to help single parents in your community. The list can go on and on of things that can be done as God's disciples.   “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few…” Luke 10:2 (ESV)   So today is a new day. What are you going to do with your 86,400 seconds of life?   Blessings, Angélique~   To contact: angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water.   When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”    But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” Matthew 14:25-27 (NLT)   Matthew 14:28-31 from the Bible, is the story of the Disciple Peter walking on water. Let me ask this question, “Are you ready and willing, to walk on water”? We all know that without God's help, man cannot walk on water. Scientifically and physically, we would not stay afloat, and we would sink. So, in asking the question, I am not focusing on the science of walking on water but, the focus is on Peter’s willingness  to trust in God, and to step out of the boat by faith.   When Peter stepped out of the boat after Jesus permitted him, he initially kept his eyes focused on Jesus as he walked toward Him. However, when he started looking around at the wind and the waves, then looking down at his feet, he lost his focus, his confidence, his faith; and it was at that moment, he started to sink. Using our imagination, we can suppose that later after this incident, the other disciples would have teased Peter about his sinking and all that had happened. But the point is this, all of the other eleven disciples stayed  in the boat and did not step out on faith as Peter had done. They never even attempted to do what he did. He may have failed in the end but, he was willing to be obedient and to do what was impossible by trusting God.   So, what about us? Are we willing to step out on faith and trust in God when He tells us to move or to come? Are we willing to allow the Holy Spirit to come into our hearts and then look to use our gifts to share God’s gospel to this dark and unrepentant world? Or are we going to be like the eleven disciples, snickering, and cowering in the boat; looking at others who chose to exercise bold faith and stepped out at God’s command?   May we live our lives for Christ and be willing to “ get out of the boat ” when He calls us. May we be willing to have faith and courage to live for God and to live a life pleasing to Him and not this world.   Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (NLT) Love is a powerful emotion, and one God expects of all of us to have. What a different world we would live in if people tried a minimal amount of love daily towards each other. If every single person on this planet decided to show love, care, and respect for each other, this would totally change the outlook of the world in which we currently live. But, for all of us to have the desire to show brotherly love to everyone we meet, we need to be willing to work on ourselves.   In a devotion I read recently, a person shared how they sought to substitute their name in the place of the word love in the verses from 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7. I loved this idea and decided to try it. The verses below are from the NLT version of the Bible: “Angelique  is patient and kind. Angelique  is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. She  does not demand her  own way. She  is not irritable, and she  keeps no record of being wronged. She  does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Angelique  never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” In the devotional, they went on to say that when they substituted their name, they would stop at each verse to see if it was true to their character at the time. If it were not, they would put this area of improvement before God and continue to work on themselves to grow and become better. Of course, none of us is perfect nor will we ever be however, that does not mean we should not continue to strive to be the person God created us to be.   As we mature in our Christian journey, let us look to allow love, kindness, and humility to reign supreme in our minds and in our hearts. As we become closer to Christ, we must realize we cannot follow God and say we love Him, then turn around and hate His children, our fellow human beings. This world is very self-centered, materialistic, and seems to embody/promote narcissistic tendencies. These characteristics are the very opposite of Godly behaviors. May we all choose to turn away from the worldly way of thinking and behaving and instead embrace God's holy precepts and ideals. May we learn to love as God loves.   Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1 (ESV But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”  Acts 6:4 (ESV) And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8 (ESV)   Has God chosen a replacement for your ministry? That is something to think about. I listened to a sermon recently, where the pastor shared that many people in the Bible were God’s first choice for ministry. Had they followed through, they would have been effective witnesses for His people and His kingdom here on Earth. However, because they allowed the cares of life, other individuals, fear, etc. to paralyze them, they never moved forward. Then as a result, God chose another, a replacement, who did listen, obey, and move to carry out His will.   There are many examples of people in the Bible who were replaced due to their life choices. One example is Jacob and Esau. Esau was the firstborn despite being a twin and was destined to carry on the family name and legacy as the firstborn son. However, he consistently showed no regard for his position and casually sold his birthright for food. Jacob, his brother, took his place and eventually God’s son Jesus, was born through Jacob’s lineage instead. Another example is Saul and David. Saul was king at the time when he and the tribe of Israel faced off with the giant Goliath and the Philistines. Saul was a large man who if he still had the Spirit of God upon him, could have taken on Goliath himself. But he had made poor choices in his past and the Spirit of God had left him. But David in contrast, was a small shepherd boy filled with God’s Spirit, who was willing to step up and do what needed to be done. David went on to defeat Goliath and save Israel in that battle.   How many of us were God’s first choice to move out and do His will? We were chosen first but for whatever reason, we did not move out and as a result, He moved on and chose another. We all should want to live our lives here on Earth to the fullest. We do not want to be guilty of taking to the grave, the ministry that God had for us while we were alive. God has given all of us gifts and talents that are to be used to uplift His kingdom here on Earth. In addition to uplifting His kingdom, God will at times allow us to use our talents to enrich our own lives as well.   As we look to move forward in life, I want to encourage us all not to squander the ministry God has given. When God places on our hearts to go out, may we use our gifts and talents to uplift this sinful world. At times we may have apprehension or fear but, we must realize God will be with us and will bless our efforts. May we be willing to do the ministry God gives us and not have Him turn to our replacement. Let us seek to move out and use our gifts and talents, whether great or small, to spread His message to a dying world. Blessings, Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) Have you ever felt down, not necessarily depressed, but just down and feeling that things in life are not where you would like them to be? I recently had that feeling come over me. Giving all praises to God, I can safely say those feelings come infrequently and they usually last just a few hours. But when the feelings do come, I know that’s when I need to take extra care of myself by getting rest, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and most importantly turning to God's word. In addition to studying the Bible, I seek to listen to Christian music as well as watch good bible-based preaching videos. Then, after a short amount of time, I started feeling better, more focused, and more centered, and my trust and belief in God strengthened despite the current negativity that surrounds us daily.   One popular set of verses in the Bible that gives me (and many others) encouragement is Psalm 23. Even though David, the author of this psalm defeated Goliath and had many other victories, he had his down  days in life as well. Yet, he trusted God and allowed his relationship with God to become real to him as he went through troubled times. Having head knowledge of Psalm 23 is important but what is of greater importance is to truly experience God, His presence, and His guidance; this is the ultimate goal.   As you read Psalm 23 below, notice that I have emphasized the words my, me, I, you, and your. When I did this, it really brought this psalm to life and reinforced the notion that these are not just mere words on a page. Enjoy anew God’s words of encouragement…   Psalm 23 (from the New Living Translation) The Lord is my  shepherd; I  have all that I  need. He lets me  rest in green meadows; he leads me  beside peaceful streams. He renewed my  strength. He guides me  along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I  walk through the darkest valley, I  will not be afraid, for you  are close beside me . Your  rod and your  staff protect and comfort me . You  prepare a feast for me  in the presence of my  enemies. You  honor me  by anointing my  head with oil. My  cup overflows with blessings. Surely your  goodness and unfailing love will pursue me  all the days of my  life, and I  will live in the house of the Lord forever.   Blessings,   Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

(1st published April 2024...Reposted) Answer my prayers oh Lord for your unfailing love is wonderful. Take care of me, but your mercy is plentiful. Psalm 69:16 (NLT)   Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.   Isaiah 46:4 (ESV)   As we transverse life, many of us may wonder from time to time if God really cares for us. We’ll ask the question, is He really going through life with us? We especially have this question come up when we’re dealing with challenges and difficulties in our lives. I think some people have the belief that once you become a Christian and put your faith in God, from that point on, you won’t have significant problems or burdens.  However, this is far from the truth. Everyone, whether they believe in God or not, will still have ups and downs as they go through life. The difference with our belief in God, His son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, is that we know the down periods in life, are just a moment in time. That God will be with us and will eventually bring us through to the other side.   Now, there will be times when some who go through trials will fall asleep in Jesus.  Even though their life has ended, they, as well as their loved ones, have faith that they will live again on the Earth made new, at the resurrection of the righteous.  So, no matter what course our life will take, we must know and believe that God will be with us every step of the way.  As the verses above have stated, as well as many others, throughout the Bible, God truly cares for His children. The entire Bible is His manuscript to us on how to live our best life and, how much love and sacrifice He has done in order for us to one day be with Him in paradise. An example of God‘s love is like loving parents here on Earth but, even deeper.  God's love for His children cannot truly be comprehended with our limited human minds.  So, when you ask the question, does God care for me? The answer is yes!  He does now and will always! Blessings,   Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

…having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.   14  For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland.   16  But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. Hebrews 11:13-14 & 16 (ESV)   At times here on earth, we will see beauty, joy, and peace surrounding us but unfortunately however, this is not the reality for everyone. While living on Earth, experiencing both good and challenging times, some may perceive this as the entirety of life. But, as God’s children, we know that this Earth is not our final destination, it is not our forever home. What we all must realize is this: we are merely passing through, and we should not become attached to this world and its failing systems.   We should think of our journey here on Earth as training ground and preparation for Heaven. How we behave and interact here with others, is training for living eternally in Heaven. It would be great practice for us to adopt the mindset that we are pilgrims passing through as opposed to citizens. The definition of a citizen is a person who is a member of a country or place where they live but a pilgrim on the other hand, is a person who is traveling through, usually on a long journey. Of course, while here on Earth we are citizens of a particular country but, as God’s children, we need to remind ourselves this world is not our forever home.   Currently, we face uncertain and challenging news that permeates our daily lives. It is refreshing to know that one day we will live eternally with God and there will be no more hatred, bitterness, depression, physical ailments/diseases, financial problems, breakdown of relationships, etc. Earth and its systems will pass away, and we will be living eternally with God in the Earth made new. What a wonderful time it will be to live in a place where beauty, honesty, purity, and most importantly love prevails.   My encouragement to you is when times get tough, and it is hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel, know that you are just a pilgrim passing through on this life‘s journey. The current challenging situations you may be handling are not permanent, and this sinful Earth is not your permanent destination. While here of course, look to do good and to light up your corner of this world but, realize you are truly a pilgrim seeking to settle in your forever home called Heaven.   Blessings,   Angélique 💐 To contact:   21stcglmediateam@gmail.com

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 (ESV)   Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV)   God, the creator of all humanity embodies equality amongst His children as the Apostle Paul stated in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus”. As all human beings are God’s children, differences such as race, ethnicity, gender, or social status should not lead to discrimination that is in the world as well as the church.   Innately, many humans harbor a desire to dominate and feel superior to others. This often stems from a sense of inadequacy and a lack of control over certain aspects of their lives. Consequently, individuals may resort to belittling others due to their differences. Throughout the Bible, humans have consistently looked to assert authority and project an image of superiority through various systems and rankings. However, it is crucial to recognize that God is the creator of the diversity we see in our world! Whether it be people, plants, animals, the environment, the Earthly terrain; all the differences and variety we see have their origin from God.   Even though we all equally receive God‘s love and blessing, many will struggle with this notion and living out God‘s ideal for His children and His world. It may be difficult for some, but not impossible. God’s word teaches us that the diversity of people who unite, through faith and belief in Christ, will best reflect His ultimate plan for life here on Earth and eternity. May we all seek to celebrate the diversity that we see all around us. May we not be pulled into the polarization and division that many encourage, which brings about animosity and hatred. May we seek to be a unifying people that has a common goal of love, respect, and desire for the common good of everyone.   Seek to be one with Christ and in so doing, one with your fellow human beings. This is God‘s ultimate purpose and plan.   Blessings, Angélique To contact:  21stcglmediateam@gmail.com