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Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. Colossians 4:6 (ESV) So, whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 (ESV) I read an article that mentioned the acronym T.H.I.N.K. and I wanted to share it here, going over the meaning of each letter. T is for Thoughtful… In our dealings with others, whether inside our family circle or not, are we acting from a place of thoughtfulness in our daily interactions? Do we think first, and consider how our words and/or actions, either big or small, will impact another? Let us develop a mindset of being considerate and thoughtful about our actions, as we go about our daily lives. H is for Honesty… Are we always operating from a mindset of honesty in our daily dealings with others, various projects, work, or school? Looking into the core of who we are, do we go through our lives with honesty being high on our list of character traits? I is for Interesting… A lot of people, places, and things can be considered interesting. This word can be used to describe someone or something nice and exciting or, it could be used to describe just the opposite. So, in looking at this word within the acronym, we always need to look at it in context with the other descriptors: thoughtful, honest, necessary & kind. So, combined with the other descriptions, the word interesting should be thought of in a positive and uplifting light. N is for Necessary… Many times, we all will have situations thrown at us that may not be kind or considerate. And our first reaction may be to retaliate in like manner or even worse. However, when I think of the word necessary in this acronym, I think in terms of, is it worth it? Do I need to go “there” with this person or situation? And even if I did, would it change the outcome? If we think things through and apply this word to our thoughts, we will be able to save ourselves and others, a lot of pain and grief, by not adding to the situation. K is for Kind… That word speaks for itself. When we consider interactions with others and our responses to what we will say or do in various situations, we always must remind ourselves to be kind. And I’m not saying to be kind when someone else is kind. That’s easy, we all can do that. The Bible speaks of it beginning in Matthew 5:47 where it states: “For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others?” So, when it says to be kind in this acronym, it suggests being kind always, when it’s easy and when it’s hard. Let’s look to have kindness be a part of our core matrix. Therefore, when we encounter situations as well as individuals, who are not being kind, we will still respond with kindness and consideration. As we go through life, may we incorporate this acronym internally. May we work on it being a part of our psyche and a true part of who we are. So, when we get into a situation where we’re being tested, this acronym will be right there in the forefront of our minds. It will remind us to stop, take a moment, and then respond. If we all did this, what a different world this would be. So, going forward in life let us have this thought before we respond: is it thoughtful, is it honest, is it interesting, is it necessary, and is it kind. Let us remember to T.H.I.N.K always before we act and speak. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. So, you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. Colossians 2:9-10 (NLT) In a popular film called Jerry Maguire, there is a line that has been labeled very romantic and has been used repeatedly by many couples. It is the phrase, “You complete me”. Romantic movies are great, and their famous phrases are wonderful to hear however, in dealing with reality, we must bring context to some of these romantic phrases. You might be surprised to learn a lot of people buy into the notion that another person completes them. Some go so far as believing another mate, child, pet, objects such as a car, property, money, status, etc., will complete them. This notion, however, is so very far from the truth. These thoughts/notions, come from societies in general, that places high values on obtaining a certain external status, that involves other people or things. Societies worldwide have promoted the idea that a person by themselves is not complete and whole unless they have another person. In truth, the only way every human being will feel complete, connected, and at peace, is when they maintain a connection to God. We need to realize that everything on this earth, including ourselves, is temporal. We are living in temporal bodies, and inhabiting a temporal space, during a set time period on this planet. No one knows their life expectancy. So, to feel you will not be complete unless you have another person, a position, status, or objects, can be emotionally and mentally destabilizing. Because at any time people, positions, objects, can be taken away. We have no control of their future, nor of our own. May we always seek to work on our emotional, mental, and spiritual mindset. We should strive to connect with God daily and realize you as an individual are complete. Please understand, I’m not saying everyone should be by themselves and they should not connect with other people. It is good to be with others and the Bible speaks about community and being with other people. Having community and connection is definitely good for all of us. It helps us to thrive in this life when we form connections with other wholesome, healthy individuals. What I am saying is that a person does not need to feel they are incomplete as a person, by themselves. As we continue to grow and work on ourselves, may we feel peace and completeness about who God created us to be. May we aim to learn and cultivate the gifts and talents, that God has placed within each of us. And, as complete individuals, may we seek to share what God has created us to be, with the rest of the world. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; His understanding is unsearchable. Isaiah 40:28 (ESV) All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. John 1:3 (ESV) I once had a discussion with a friend regarding God and the current state of the world. My friend focused on the negatives in this world especially, the horrible things people are doing to one another. She wanted to make a case of blaming God for all the bad that is happening in the world. I listened and let her finish, then I responded. I said God made this world, and us perfect, before sin came into the picture. Our first parents, Adam and Eve did sin however, everyone else who has lived, and is currently living on this planet, have sinned as well. At times we see commentary discussing the fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. So often we like to try and “blame” Adam and Eve however, we are reluctant to point fingers at ourselves, and the wrong choices we have made. I shared with her that God gave all mankind a wonderful gift called, free will. This freedom allows us to choose to do right or the freedom to do what is wrong. The freedom to listen to God, or to listen to our own voice and/or fleshly desires, that the world is constantly inviting us to indulge. I then shared this, God created this planet, as well as every living creature. He set healthy rules in place and boundaries for us all to live by. These rules and boundaries can be found in His Holy Word, the Bible. In setting these rules, God is not trying to be strict or unreasonable. He understands all too well the repercussions that will follow our sinful choices. God has given us His boundaries in love for our ultimate wellbeing and protection. They are there to help us in making the best decisions for ourselves, and for those around us. If every person chose to abide by God’s guidelines, we would not see the current sinful and fallen state of our world. If we all decided to order our lives according to His laws, there would be no sexual sins, no cheating, stealing, lying, jealousies, disregard for the world He created, and the list can go on and on. But because mankind decides to do what they want, the end result is the current state of the world. I also shared this thought with her. It’s strange how people want to call on God as if He’s some genie in a bottle that is to come out, only when needed. So, if all is going well, then we will do what we want, even if it’s against His guidelines. Then when things go wrong, we expect God to fix it immediately, so we can go back to living life the way we want, once again. And if He doesn’t fix things on demand and the way we would like, He’s then labeled mean and uncaring. These characterizations are wrong and very far from the truth. The Creator of the universe is not a genie that we can command when we want. He is not God in a box. However, God is always there for us all. He is there to listen to our prayers and to help us out of various situations we may find ourselves in. May we be willing to follow God’s commands and choose to live our lives making choices, according to His Word. Let us not in our minds, look to put God in a box and to pull Him out only when we need Him. Let us keep God and His Holy Word upfront and the center of our lives. May we desire to seek to make choices and decisions, based on what He would do, in any and every situation. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

But the anointing that you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as His anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in Him. 1John 2:27 (ESV) There are a few definitions regarding the word abide: to continue in a place, to live, to dwell. To abide with God and be in His presence is to seek to spiritually be near Him on a daily basis. We all live here on planet Earth. We are not presently in Heaven next to God, or His Holy Angels. However, as we dwell here on Earth, we can still be near Him and, we can abide with Him. God desperately longs to be close to all of us His children, on a constant basis. He wants us to adopt His ways and be in constant connection with Him through prayer and Bible study. Now, there will be many times you may not feel Him near you or, when you pray, you do not feel He hears nor answers your prayers. Despite your “feelings”, understand and believe, He is near, and He hears you when you call to Him. Will He always give us what we want when we pray? Maybe not. And when He says no or is silent, with our limited human understanding we may feel He is ignoring us. We may feel He is distant and does not care about what we are going through. Realize this however, He cares deeply for His children. What causes us pain also causes Him pain and grief. Just like a good parent, He hurts when we hurt. I personally can attest to God being there for me when I was in my darkest moments. There were times when I did not feel He heard me, nor did I feel Him near. During those times, I felt utterly alone. But after I cried, screamed, and called out to God numerous times, I made a final decision to trust and believe He was there, and that He would bring me through. I chose to believe without physical evidence or really knowing my future outcome. Essentially, I chose to have faith. And, true to His word, He brought me through those very dark, lonely, and challenging times. As I write this, I know there are those who have called out to God for their prayers to be answered but, the answers they have received were not what they had hoped. Trust me when I say I have had that situation as well. Even if we may not understand why God did not answer our prayers, we still need to have complete faith and trust, that He knows what is best. That He knows what must happen overall, as it concerns us, and this world. Remember the enemy of all mankind is Satan and his evil angels. They will do whatever they can to physically, as well as emotionally and mentally, distract you. They will work to make you and I believe that God does not care, and He is not working everything out for good. Seek to abide with God and His precepts. Do not look to the world or others, (who do not fully follow God) but look to draw close to Him and remain as close as possible. There will be ups and downs in life but the closer you are to Him, the more you will seek to abide in His presence. As you abide with God, you will feel His protection and shield all around you, no matter what this life throws your way. You will grow stronger and be able to handle all aspects of your life. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Matthew 5:6 (ESV) Blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times! Psalm 106:3 (ESV) In living life day to day, do you find yourself thirsting after God’s Righteousness? As we go about our lives, we at times get caught up in the struggles and the cares of this world, that pull us from one situation to the next. And seeking to thirst after God’s Righteousness, is not always at the forefront of our minds. When we hunger for God and His righteousness, we are seeking to make the right decisions and choices on a daily basis. That may sound easy but sometimes it can be a challenge. For example, in life sometimes we are given an option to take shortcuts, in order to help us in our various tasks. But by doing so, this ultimately might help us, but not so with others. By taking the shortcut, we may make it harder for another who comes along and picks up our slack. This scenario can happen at work, school, or in any area of our personal lives. In that scenario, was God’s Righteousness being displayed? We all have to agree no, it was not. The decision was made to do what was good for us, knowing, later on, someone else may have to pay the price. In seeking to do what’s right, always base your thoughts and actions on what Jesus would do in the situation versus a worldly response. In the world, there are a lot of popular views on various topics, on how to interact in society and with each other. Some of these views are trendy and what everyone else is doing, therefore, it is considered acceptable behavior. For a while, we may go along with these worldly views and feel content, as if we are part of the mainstream. For instance, in a non-marital relationship, some decisions and behaviors may be in line with what everyone is doing, but those actions, are very contrary to what God says in His Holy Word. Some will continue to listen to the world and make decisions based on worldly happiness but eventually, there will come a time when they are no longer fulfilled, or at peace. Ultimately, they may find when they get to the end of that journey, there is nothing but emptiness, pain, and hurt. I challenge us all to thirst for God’s Righteousness. To pray on a daily basis for the desire of God and His Holiness. God said in His word we all are born into sin, meaning, we all have a desire for sin and sinful pleasures. We are not born with a natural desire for God’s Holiness. However, let’s continue to pray and seek to have God’s Righteousness, in our day-to-day decisions. May we not be fooled or pulled away from right living, by the shiny pleasures the world offers. Pray that we will have the mindset to always stay on the path of God’s truth. Eventually, as we continue to do this, we will find ourselves filled with His Spirit and, at peace. Thirst for God’s Righteousness always… Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 1 Corinthians 13: 11 (ESV) Two characteristics one should possess would be emotional and relational maturity. A person should always strive to obtain a high level of maturity for themselves and look to seek other individuals who strive for the very same. A definition I found on emotional maturity says this: “Emotional maturity is defined as how well you are able to respond to situations, control your emotions and behave in an adult manner when dealing with others. Being able to have a rational conversation with your significant other when you disagree instead of throwing things and ranting and raving is an example of showing emotional maturity.” As we all grow and evolve, may we strive to be emotionally mature individuals that operate with realistic and honest expectations of ourselves, as well as other people. May we learn to accept responsibility for our actions, our happiness, and/or our unhappiness. To not place the burden of pleasing us onto others, nor looking to blame them for our bad choices and/or life outcomes. Whether it is business, personal, or romantic relationships, we should all seek to partner with individuals who show emotional maturity. We should always keep pursuing to better ourselves in all areas of life, especially in the areas of emotional and relational maturity. For relational maturity, I was not able to find a clear-cut definition. Most of the definitions dealt with romantic relationships only. However, in coming up with my own definition for relational maturity, I have determined the following: a person who exhibits stability and dependability. They give their word and will do what they say, and/or stand by their commitments. They understand the importance of honesty in all of their dealings with others. They are the opposite of immature meaning, they are not spoiled or wanting their way all the time. And if they cannot get their way, they do not go around pouting or having a sour disposition. They understand how to regulate themselves (that comes with emotional maturity) and gauge their responses to situations, when faced with different, and sometimes not so pleasant outcomes. They understand to not expect perfection from other people because they know they are not perfect. They understand accepting others and their differences can lead to mutual understanding in various situations. They understand when dealing with another individual, whether it be business or personal, there will be situations that need to be addressed or discussed respectfully, due to misunderstandings. They are willing to be open to see another’s point of view and to not pass judgment or speak harmful words against another. They strive to respect another person’s outlook in life and the contributions this other person may bring to the relationship. When learning to be emotionally and relationally mature, one can always look to the Master Architect of our world, and of us, God and His Word. I’ve stated many times the Bible is God’s blueprint for how we all can live our best lives. Chapters in the Bible that discuss how to live as emotionally and relationally mature people would be the Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Solomon, and Ecclesiastes. Quite honestly throughout the Bible, you will find how we should behave individually, as well as collectively, as a community. The Bible teaches us all how to become the best versions of ourselves and how to treat others with love and respect. I encourage us all to work on ourselves emotionally and relationally. To always strive for the maturity level that pleases God and is a blessing to those we meet. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.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) I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (ESV) In the time that we’re living in, so many are struggling to stay healthy and stay alive. I’m referring to the COVID-19 Pandemic that has engulfed this nation, as well as the entire world. As I write this I know of loved ones, church family, friends, and coworkers, who are battling and/or have battled, this virus. Even though the worries and concerns about the pandemic are ever before us, sometimes we forget there are others still struggling with different issues like other health crises, negative family changes, and looming debt-financial situations. As we look around it seems we all are struggling to keep a positive present, as well as future outlook, while still going about our lives day by day. It seems many are becoming discouraged, disheartened, and wondering will this ever end. This is a question we all have in our minds but in truth, man has no known answer. We all hope and pray that this time and season of life will come to an end soon. But the future and its promises, are ultimately in the hands of God. Despite the gloom of this pandemic, and perhaps other issues as well, I want to encourage us all to dig deep in our faith and trust in God. To truly rest in Him is to give our lives (present and future), as well as the lives of our friends and loved ones, to Him. When we are uncertain of what tomorrow has in store for us, let’s remember God is already there in the future, working out the Master Plan. Despite what we see around us and the doubts we may be feeling, let us reach deep inside and hold onto the notion that no matter what happens, we will be secure in God, and His plan for our lives. We will hold on to God even when we do not understand and do not feel the assurance that everything will be alright. As the strong winds and storms of life blow against us, no matter what, we will hold fast and hang on to God, His Word, and His Principles. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

…But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ Luke 15:20-21 The Prodigal Son story is a very moving example that reminds us of the extent of God’s love, for His children. You may at times feel you have traveled or strayed so far from God, that you are lost forever. However, God’s word throughout the Bible, and especially in the Prodigal Son story, tell of His love and care, for us all. This life is definitely hard at times, for all of us. The difficulties could be due to circumstances we were born into via our family network or, due to our own actions. During those times we may find ourselves lost, and adrift in life. We feel as if we failed and cannot make it back into God’s good graces. But this story and many others in the Bible, let us know we are God’s children, and He loves us with an unmeasurable amount of love and care. It is up to us to look within and assess where we are in life. To stop and take a good look at our current situation, just like the prodigal son did. I pray that no matter where we are in life, we all will come to that moment when we realize we cannot make it in this world without Him. That we, like the prodigal son, will come to ourselves, get up, and go back to our Spiritual Father, which is God our Creator. If you find yourself wanting to return to God but feeling inadequate or ashamed, realize in your heart He loves you, and His arms are open to receive you. As much as possible, never allow this world and its various vices, pull you away physically, emotionally, and mentally from God. However, if you ever find yourself lost and wandering, always remember you can run back to God. His arms are always wide open to receive you! Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. Colossians 2:8 (ESV) Having the appearance of godliness but denying its power. Avoid such people. 2 Timothy 3:5(ESV) In a morning devotion, I heard the Pastor state we need to be cautious of who we allow in our circle of influence. We have perhaps all heard this warning stated by other pastors, speakers, and writers; and I believe we all can attest to its truth. Last week I wrote about integrity, and how we all need to constantly develop its character traits. In living our lives, we will meet many different people and personality types. However, the ones who you chose to keep close to you, including family and friends, need to be on the same trajectory and mindset as yourself. And, they definitely need to have the integrity we discussed last week. All of us should want to live the life that God has ordained for each of us. We need to realize what He has purposed for you and I will impact this world for the better. And in living out that purpose, hopefully, we will seek to surround ourselves with others who have a mindset and a life trajectory, that is very much God-centered. As we stay close to God and His principles, we will desire to be closely aligned with others who are like-minded. With God’s guidance, we will not allow individuals into our inner circle, who will seek to derail us from our Godly purpose in this life. In interpreting God’s word in Matthew 7:15, it basically states one needs to be careful of wolves in sheep’s clothing. Also, as we read in the verses for today, we must be careful of those who seem to walk and talk honorably however, their actions and their thought patterns, are far from God. If possible, we must not allow these people to be in our inner circle of influence. Of course, we always need to be kind and loving to all people but, we must be careful of who we allow in our inner circle. We must do our best to not allow anyone to derail us from our Godly mission in this world. Not allow ourselves to be lured or steered away from God’s principles by worldly customs or ideals. Keep your resolve and focus to be the best God created you to be. And remember, do not be derailed!! Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. Proverbs 10:9 (ESV) And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. Luke 6:31 (ESV) Integrity definition: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness. This word encompasses one of my favorite core virtues and values that a person should possess. In all relationships I hope to form, whether it be romantic, business, friends, family members, and church family members, I seek out individuals who possess integrity. I pray that all of us will seek to be a person of integrity and will look to associate with others who embody this quality. People with integrity are generally known to be trustworthy, honest, and kind. I read an article where it was stated that integrity lays the foundation, as well as being fundamental, for all other virtues. Let’s take a moment to break down some of the main components that make up integrity. Humility: The virtue of humility encompasses people who are humble and not haughty. They tend to not be arrogant nor think too highly of themselves. Joyful spirit: These are individuals who seek to enrich the lives of those they meet, without seeking anything in return. They look forward to helping better other people’s lives and are not so consumed, with just bettering themselves. Authentic: They seek to show their true selves, in all situations. They do not live in a manipulative/ lying atmosphere. You know who they really are, and what they really stand for. Kind: When you encounter them, they are considerate individuals. They have problems just like everyone but ultimately, they look to always exhibit kindness and patience towards others. From time to time, they too will run out of patience in dealing with various situations and people however, it is not the norm for them to be impatient, arrogant, and rude, on a consistent basis. Lying: They are not known, liars. They do not look to tell big, intricate, or even small, insignificant lies. For them, lying, whether big or small, is wrong on all levels. Trustworthy: They stick to what they said they would do, as much as possible. They try to do everything to complete agreed-upon deadlines and schedules. Also, in being trustworthy, they own up to their errors. If they know they did something wrong, they’re not going to try and pin it on someone else or blame others for the cause of their mistakes. They own up to whatever shortcomings they have and look to try to rectify the situation. Even-tempered: They do not have violent outbursts and tempers on a regular basis. There may be times of being very upset and angry but, that is not their true nature, nor their way of handling themselves. It’s a rarity to see them very angry and having violent outbursts. In describing integrity, of course, it sounds like the perfect person. However, all of us are sinners saved by the grace of God through the blood of His Son Jesus Christ. What I am suggesting, is that all of us strive to embody the qualities of integrity and seek to always increase these qualities in our lives. All should strive to have integrity be a part of their core character. We all should long to have these character traits become intricately a part of who we are, and how we operate in society. As you go about living your life, strive to be a person with high integrity. Strive to be humble, trustworthy, and kind, to everyone that you meet. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

So Jesus said to him, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.” John 4:48 (ESV) I recently read the story of the widow whose son was brought back to life by Elijah the Prophet, in 1st Kings 17: 23-24. What came to me was what she told Elijah after he gave her back her son. She told him, now she believes he is a man of God. When you stop to ponder her comment, it would also seem, what she was saying is that now, she believes in God and His power, as well. Here is a question for us all. What has to happen in our lives, for us to believe God exists? Do we have to have huge miraculous signs and wonders, performed before our eyes? Or will we believe by just beholding God’s creation: birds in the sky, the air we breathe, waking up each day, the sun/daylight, and the moon/stars at night? Will the thought of various forms of creation coming to life on this earth, be enough for us to realize He exists? Do you ever find it strange that as humans, we ask God to perform supernatural works and acts for us to believe in Him? Yet in our various relationships with people, flawed and sinful as we all are, we don’t require them to perform great signs of wonder, in order for us to believe and trust in them. Sometimes we don’t require very much from people at all before we begin to open up and totally believe and trust in them. But with God, at times we feel He has to do something spectacular in order for us to follow and trust Him. God, the ultimate Creator of the universe and of every living creature, we still require Him to “prove” Himself, time and time again. Requesting God to pass various tests and fulfill high expectations that we would not dare require from another human being. I pray that we all take a moment out of our busy lives and appreciate God by really taking a good look around. Start by looking in the mirror and thanking Him for the marvelous creation of you. Then look around you with childlike wonder and admiration, at other people and all of His creation. Believe and know that He does not have to “prove” to any of us that He is real, and that He exists! Just believe that He does! Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com

“Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” John 7:24 (ESV) “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven…Luke 6:37 (ESV) If you see a male individual dressed in baggy pants, a T-shirt, tennis shoes, and a hoodie, what would your assessment be? Especially if this individual was part of the black or brown race, with ethnic or natural styled hair? What would be your first assessment upon seeing this individual coming towards you? Would you immediately think investment banker, a store/business owner, an electrical or computer engineer, a doctor, or a lawyer? Will that be your immediate assessment? Or would you think this individual was from the “poor side” of town, part of the lower echelon of society? Would you think he most likely has a criminal background, and more often than not, probably does not make good life decisions? Now taking the same descriptions above, change his racial profile to being white or Asian. Does that impact your initial assessment? How about if we change the profile to a female who is black or brown-skinned? What is your assessment then? And if we changed it once more to a white female, what would be your assessment? In looking at various individuals who we do not know, all of us from the human family will make assessments based on how we were raised, our circle of influence, as well as societal programming. The programing from society can be from various platforms of the media: print, television, radio, podcasts, music, etc. And depending on our background of influence, we all will make assumptions about certain individuals, based on their outward appearance. Making assumptions about people is something God does not want any of His children to do. In the past, I wrote a couple of articles entitled God’s Kids, parts 1 and 2. And it was true then as well as now, that all of us, no matter our race, size, religious background, ethnicities, social-economic status, etc., are His children. He created every human being and every creature on this earth. He created the earth itself along with the stars, moon, constellations, etc. Everything living and created can be traced back to God. And He does not take kindly to any of His children, making wrong assumptions about another. Especially formulating negative assumptions, before you actually come to know the other individual. Perhaps they do come from a poorer section of society, but that does not mean they should be automatically considered bad people. Likewise, some people may come from the higher levels of society with a lot of money, power, and influence, and that does not necessarily make them good people. As God’s children, we need to step back and view His world and His kids (all of us) as a work in progress. We all have issues, various trials, and tribulations, as we live out our lives. Therefore, when you see someone who’s crossing your path, don’t assume the worst of this individual. Still look to treat every human being with kindness, dignity, and respect. Because for all you know, the person could be an investment banker, a doctor, a philanthropic individual who gives back to their community. Also, we must realize we could be entertaining angels when we meet strangers. The Bible states plainly in Hebrews 13:2; “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares”. Look to carry God’s love and humility with you wherever you go. And if you see a stranger, don’t assume you know about his or her life. Show Christlike behavior in your greeting, then continue on your life’s journey. Blessings, Angélique To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com