Da Wise One

So this is Christmas

2010-12-01T05:10:00.000-08:00

John Lennon wrote a little song called “ Happy Christmas” in 1971, and I like the lyrics. Now, while I appreciate the Beatles, I am not the biggest fan. And though most of Lennon’s later songs were a little too “hippie” for me, this song resonates with me. The song goes:

And so this is Christmas

For weak and for strong

For rich and the poor ones

The world is so wrong

I put a challenging question on a few social networking sites this week and got an interesting response. The question: “Was Jesus born to free us from sin and enslave us in consumer debt because of his birthday? It started a debate on the date of Jesus’ actual birthday rather than the larger issue of debt as a result of the holiday. I think it’s because many people are not willing to curtail their spending.

I honestly don’t believe that it’s Jesus’ goal for people to amass large amounts of consumer debt in His name. The reality is that in this economy people don’t have the money to spend a large amount of money on gifts, but as the black Friday rush indicates, most people will continue with Christmas as usual. To that I agree with Lennon in that the world is so wrong.

Many people could get no Christmas presents under their trees, and it would not affect their standard of living one bit. We don’t need others to charge up their credit cards in an effort to make us feel more loved by them. So this is Christmas? Most people can barely remember what they got last year for Christmas, not to mention who gave it to them.

It is a shame that we have reduced this holiday to such a low state. This is the one time a year that the world turns their attention to Christ. Why not make this season about Him and not about regret or guilt over spending money we don’t have, for gifts people don’t need. That does not mean that we can’t give gifts because Jesus was the greatest present the world has ever known. But, how about giving what we can, and making no excuses for what we can’t. Let’s make Christmas about Jesus.

So Thankful (the poem)

2010-11-24T18:49:00.001-08:00

I’m thankful for my life

I’m thankful for my wife

I’m thankful for my son and how he fought for life

I’m thankful for the good

And even for the bad

I’m thankful for the lessons some of which I wish I never had

I’m thankful for the God’s grace

I’m thankful for His love

Through which the race I run is guided from above

I’m thankful for dad, a man I never knew

Had to learn to be a man here without you

I’m thankful for my mom, who tried to hold me down

Cause daddy played the record, bumped it, and skip town

I’m thankful for the days, back when we were so poor

Don’t got all I want, but much more than before

I’m thankful for my family those who I love so much

When days away I long to see and feel your touch

Especially for my wife, my one, my side, my heart

Please God through death only shall we part

My handsome little son, who brings me so much joy

God’s not done with daddy baby miracle boy

I’m thankful for my friends, those who care and pray

I hope my life encourages to seize the day

I’m thankful for my future, the things yet come to pass

The dreams, the plans, the more of what life eternal has

I’m thankful for all you, reading this even now

I pray thankfulness in you would always much abound

So thankful!

Football Lessons

2010-11-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I love football. I have played the game as long as I can remember. My family has a history of producing great players and I have two cousins that went to the NFL and more that could have. I played all the way through high school and made an intentional decision not to play in college, although I was recruited and could have done well. After college I played flag football and coached my team to 2 league championships. I am even now the coach of my wife’s women’s team. I LOVE FOOTBALL! It played such a pivotal role in my character development and I was reminded of one area recently. That is, my resilience.

It was my freshman year and we had an amazing team. Not everyone on the team was a “superstar”, but the handful we had should have led us to an undefeated season. I was one of the few. But, during a scrimmage I dislocated my thumb and was out for 4 weeks. My friend Damon (who is no longer with us) had a disagreement with the coach and quit. The week I returned to play, the guys holding things together Mike R., Derrick C., and Jamie F. decided to skip a practice and they were ineligible to play. So, I was maybe one of 2 stars left, and I was a little rusty and outfitted with a soft cast on my arm. It didn’t help that we were playing the only team that could beat us, our hated rivals, Florence.

I made up my mind that it was up to me to win the game. Once the game started, I GOT POUNDED! Our main play was, hand the ball to Damian and watch him get his head knocked off. It seemed like everyone on the team had given up. Well, that sent me into a rage. I would get knocked down, and would jump back up, “Hit me harder”. I refused to give in. I argued with my team, the coaches, and the players on the other side. My coaches begged me to keep my composure, but I was not having it. There was no way I was going to let the other team beat me. We lost 44 to nothing. But, at the end of the game all the coaches from Florence shook my hand and told me how impressed they were, with my play. It was a moral victory, but a horrible loss, the only one we would suffer that season.

The lesson was worth the beating. I discovered that the harder the odds were against me, the tougher I became. It would serve as a theme for my life. When I was not accepted to college, I fought hard to get in and even earned better grades than I had in my life. When I was told that my wife was too good for me (I tend to agree), I worked to make myself a man that would be worthy of her. When my son was born with a brain injury, Daddy stepped in and fought for his son. I didn’t know any scripture at that point in my life, but God revealing one in me. “If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small.” Proverbs 24:10 Football showed me how to not fail under pressure. So, no matter what you are going through, don’t quit. No matter how hard the challenge, don’t give up. Others will need your strength…Just a thought.

China (The People)

2010-11-03T04:30:00.000-07:00

Think on this…The crowning jewel of my trip in China apart from some of the most flavorful food I have eaten in my life was the amazing people. Once again nothing in China is, as it seems. I was anticipating a feeling of oppression and control. But, the Chinese people have many more freedoms than we would ever imagine. Outside of all the Asian people and architecture things felt mostly like anywhere here in the states. Conversation was similar to that here, although as a foreigner we were told to avoid the 3 Ts Tibet, Taiwan, and the Tiananmen Square incident. There is a major since that change is in the air and the country is becoming more modern and western.

The Chinese people are exceedingly sweet. I didn’t see one unfriendly face as I endeavored to get out amongst the people. I had the opportunity to visit street markets and by the street food (okay I am trying not to talk about the food), I went through the subway, I spent time on a college campus, and I visited 3 churches. I had an authentic Chinese experience, but all things were consistent, the people are the highlight of the country.

I visited two schools while there. One was the 4^th ranked college in China and the other was a smaller less prestigious one. The top ranked school was much larger and you could tell that this was some of the best students the country had to offer. The students were really smart and their English was as good as mine. They were the future of the country and they felt the pressure from both their families and their nation. The second group of students really grabbed my heart, as they were most likely ones who didn’t test as well and they didn’t carry the same sense of confidence. Both sets of students were very knowledgeable about the world and they seemed to not necessarily embrace the leading parties philosophy.

Trick or Treat

2010-11-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

Think on this…we don’t celebrate All Hallows Eve or Halloween. We understand its origins and it’s not something we endorse. We don’t judge people, or even Christians who do; it’s just not our thing. There are no ghouls and goblins on our door, or scarecrows in our yard. But, we do give out candy to the neighborhood children. I know that it might seem slightly contradictory, but read on to get a better glimpse into our reasoning. Think about it, when else will children from all over the neighborhood come to our door? So we see it as a chance to love on those in our community.

When I was a child I remember trick or treating. I am from a small town where many of the homes are right next to one another, that provides for great candy collection. We would forgo the traditional plastic bags or buckets, because bag snatching was a big thing and they simply could not hold all of the goodies we would collect. I would come home with a pillowcase full of candy that would take us hours to sort. The one thing I remember vividly was the homes that would give us the best candy. To this day I still see one house in particular. I am in my 30’s and I still remember a good Halloween house. Someone had an impact on my life because they gave me candy! That is crazy, but my point exactly.

We believe whole-heartedly that we are to touch the live of those around us. To be honest, it’s a bit creepy for a grown man to strike up conversation with children. So, now that we are the cool candy house both our neighbors and their children know who we are, that we care, and we are safe. We didn’t go cheap on them, we gave out full size candy, and it caused a ruckus. After our house kids were saying, “full sized” in the street. One young lady said, “You’re my new best friend”. Now that we are BFFs maybe they will read the scripture card we attached. I know that some would argue the pagan nature of the holiday and I would agree and simply remind you of the pagan nature of our Christmas trees and Yule Logs (look it up). We are not opposed to using this holiday to touch the lives of our neighbors. The Bible says, “I became like a person weak in faith to win those who are weak in faith. I have become everything to everyone in order to save at least some of them.” 1 Cor. 9:22 The alternative is to hide in our home making a statement nobody will ever hear…Just a thought.

China (The Country)

2010-10-27T21:09:00.001-07:00

Think on this…Many people have been asking about my recent trip to China. I figured I would explain my insights through a few blogs. I do understand the interest people have in that country as very few ever visits this mysterious land. It made sense that the first thing we were told was that nothing in China is, as it seems. I found that to be the theme of my time there.

The purpose of my trip was to learn how I might send students there to teach conversational English to Chinese students. I must admit much of the allure was the opportunity to visit the country. Yes, I always love the chance to touch the live of college students. After all I am the College Impact guy. It’s become a life’s work, but the thought that I could be in a country many people will never see was a big deal.

When I hit the ground in China I was a bit overwhelmed. I am used to being a minority here in the states, but 1 in 1.6 billion is very different. People would stand a few feet away from me and just stare. I was polite and said, “nǐ hǎo” and they responded with hello and would continue looking at me. This was not rudeness on their part it was simply many of them had never seen a black person before. It is an all-Asian world so a black person in their context is just an oddity…

Change the World

2010-10-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

Think on this…Last week was intense and filled with opportunities to make a difference in this world. I think we wrestle with such a lofty goal as changing the world because we see both the greatness of that ambition and the weakness of our own humanity. I believe that this is natural and honest although not the most spiritual response. God has high expectations for us His people, and we will not see the full expansion of His kingdom in the earth unless we choose to follow Him into His prescribed future.

You see I have led a hip-hop environment called Destinations, geared toward reaching urban young adults for almost 10 years now. We have a history of having provocative shows with titles like Naked, Blow, Safeword. We have pushed the boundaries so much that even our more progressive church is a little freaked out at times. We had an idea recently to have a show that married our usual evangelistic focus with a cause. We decided to focus on child sex trafficking. With eighty million children being trafficked for sex, this was more than needed.

We decided to partner with both local and international sex slavery organizations to increase our level of impact. Well this thing took off, and this little event that has had mostly been a local movement got a lot of attention. I was on a national radio broadcast, and we had two media outlets at the event to cover the story. We raised money for a local project as over four hundred new girls are trafficked in Georgia a month, and we raised funds to make a difference in Asia… http://www.damianlboyd.com/college-impact-blog/

Love God & People

2010-09-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

Think on this…it’s easy to love God but people are a different issue all together. Let’s be honest, people have a tendency to be losers. Before you decide that I have completely walked away from God please read on. I just want to admit the truth here. People tell you that they will do something and let you down. People get mad at you and refuse to forgive. People abuse, miss use, bring harm, etc. Can you agree with me that people have a tendency to let you down? Parents, friends, spouses alike either have or will disappoint. It’s their nature.

I would be okay with that thought if church people were better, but they usually aren’t. I know that they are supposed to be, but they often cheat, lie, complain, and gossip as much as non-church folks. For some reading this blog, this is a confirmation of what you have always believed about church people. Others would jump to defend and cover the flaws of other Christians, and I would do the same, but we must first own up to the problem.

What is my point? It’s that people stink; I thought I said that. :-D Just kidding! Jesus was asked about what he considered the most important law in the entire scripture. This was his answer, “Love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy… and love others as well as you love yourself. There is no other commandment that ranks with these." Mark 12:29-31. You see very few people will say that they have a problem loving God. Some will doubt God’s existence and others will argue over His interaction with man, but most have no issue with thought loving God. To love people is hard. Jesus did not tell us to love good people or Christians only he said love everyone. From the most hypocritical to the worst humans alive, we are to love them. We don’t have to like it, but we are to love them anyway. If we loved people more, maybe they would not have such a hard time deciding to love us in return…Just a thought.

Under Construction

2010-09-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

Think on this…we have been raising funds to make our home handicap accessible for my son who has special needs. We are well into the first phase of this process and things and a bit of a mess. There is dust everywhere inside of the house and we have a massive amount of debris outside. We can see steady change and improvement, but the process has my family disheveled and out of sorts. We have had to embrace the reality that this is the new normal, at least for a while. The interesting thing is that I am learning a lot about life transformation as I watch my home renovation.

One lesson I have learned is that whenever a major change needs to happen there is usually destruction that must happen first. Whether quitting smoking, or trying to be a more empathetic person we usually struggle when change starts in our lives. Things get ugly before they get pretty. Another learning is that everyone in the family is affected when an adjustment begins in the life of one person. You can’t avoid it. We are communal beings and when a person is being changed we all have to give them space.

The truth is that we are and should ever be under construction. That is because no person is perfect, and who doesn’t want to grow to reach his or her full potential. But, when people are in transition we need to allow things to be messy and give them an opportunity to make the change. We can desire the needed change so much that we can despise the necessary process. The Bible says, “As all of us reflect the Lord’s glory with faces that are not covered with veils, we are being changed into his image with ever-increasing glory. 2 Corinthians 3:18 As my house is being changed I hope my life is as well…Just a thought

Superhero & Champion

2010-09-08T03:57:00.000-07:00

Think on this...My wife has always called me my son’s superhero. It stems from the first days of his life when I was the primary. I was the one who watched him emerge from the womb blue, saw him take his first breath, was the one fighting with doctors initially when they were saying he needed to be institutionalized long term, etc. My wife had recently had surgery, and I had to be what both she and my son’s hero. The other reasons that she calls me a superhero is the fact that Damian Jr. is a total daddy’s boy, and now he is my full time job. So yes, I will embrace that designation, but she is undoubted his champion.

I remember six years ago with tubes coming out of every part of his little body, and my wife struggled to pull herself up to his bed to see her son. Having had a major surgery, this was no small feat. I tried to explain to her everything that was explained to me while she recovered, and she just stroked his head and whispered into his ear what would be the defining words of his life, “Keep Fighting, just Keep Fighting”. That was all she had that day, but she would quickly model that statement.

Before she was well enough to move around, she was working to make sure that our son had everything he needed. It started with his breast-feeding; as she was in tears making sure that he had what was most nutritious. I soon had to go back to work so she took the lead. There was meeting after meeting with doctors and specialists. She was interviewing therapists, finding programs, and firing people who weren’t in agreement with what we believed God was doing in his life. She was a force to be reckoned with...(read more) http://www.damianjrstory.blogspot.com/

Family Business

2010-09-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

Think on this…ever wonder why as children we were told to always wear clean underwear in case we get in a car accident? As if while bleeding profusely a medical professional would look for dirty underwear. There is a deep philosophy that we were being taught. It simply, you don’t embarrass the family in public. We are supposed to represent ourselves well when outside of our homes.

If I am completely honest I feel this way about Christians. So many of us live with such low standards that it makes me a little ashamed of us. Not ashamed of Christ, but of others in His family. I understand that it takes new believers some time to develop Christ-like character. I fully believe that even though we have been clean from all sin we still have habits that are hard to shake. I am no different. But, we can do better. We lie, cheat, divorce, quit, and complain just as much as people who don’t have the hope of Glory living in them. Not to mention all of the sexual, financial, and marital scandals of church leaders that have been in the news. We are supposed to be better than this!

I am not condemning anyone, but my heart breaks when someone outside of the family of God says, “See, they are all a bunch of hypocrites”. Yes, God’s grace covers us and we are in continual need of a savior. But, we must remember that people are watching us, and they may or may not join our family based on what they see in our conduct. The Bible says, " The name of God is maligned and blasphemed among the outsiders because of you! " . Romans 2:24 I love both God’s people and those who have yet to join His household. It’s a shame that people won’t give their hearts to God because of our poor character. I know that this is family business, but it needs to be said…Just a thought.

Tree Hugging Dirt Worshiper

2010-08-31T04:38:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I recently saw a bumper sticker that read, ‘Tree Hugging Dirt Worshiper’. At first it made me chuckle, then it saddened me. Now, I am not a fan of bumper stickers, both Christian and other wise. I simply believe that a car looks better without them. But, every so often I will see one that makes me think. This was one of those. It was in the midst of a bunch of messages, but none of which grabbed my attention like that one.

On the surface, this bumper sticker was of care and concern for the earth. I can wholeheartedly agree with that. Save the whales, decrease your carbon footprint, conserve when possible. I am fully on board with that. My family recycles, and we even try to use eco friendly detergents, because the Bible encourages us to be good managers of this planet. But, I saw a deeper meaning in the message. It was that the environment is the most important thing, and life is all about taking care of the planet. With that thought, I strongly disagree.

You see, saving the planet doesn’t do anything for our inward souls. The environment is not important enough to pour our entire lives into. Preserving this world is valuable and necessary, just not worth our devotion. The Bible says, “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” Mark 8:36 We shouldn’t be ‘Tree Hugging Dirt Worshipers’ because the ball of dirt we live on is too small. The solar system, galaxies, and universe are all too insignificant in comparison to the God who created everything. We must choose to live for the One who designed, shaped, and is holding them all together. His name is Jesus…Just a thought.

Still Breathing…

2010-08-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

I came across a box of photos of Damian Jr being resuscitated in the delivery room. When Damian Jr was born, he came out blue and was not breathing. The medical staff invested 30-45 seconds resuscitating him.

I was unaware that all this was happening. The doctors and nurses intentionally did not indicate that anything was wrong as to not put me into to shock. All I remember is one of the nurses crying and whispering in my ear with such joy and relief, “He made it…”. My initial reaction was, “Of course, he made it!”. I no idea what our son had just experienced.

My husband, on the other hand, witnessed every second. He kept pacing back and forth and taking pictures. He too was crying while holding it all together. And he finally shared that our son almost didn’t make it. BUT he was breathing.

About the Breathing Process

You have to breathe because all of the cells in your body require oxygen. Without oxygen, your body wouldn't move. It would be like a parked car with no battery. The car might have gas, but without a battery, you are not going anywhere! So you might have blood in your body, but without oxygen, forget it! You receive oxygen from breathing in air, and then the oxygen goes to your blood which is then circulated throughout your entire body….Read more http://www.damianjrstory.blogspot.com/

Suffering, No Thank you

2010-08-24T10:07:00.001-07:00

Think on this…we can be our children’s worst enemy as it pertains to their health and development. We can be so focused on giving them what we didn’t have that we forget to give them what we had, that got us to where we are. I grew up with very little, so I would often have to eat what ever what was available. To my chagrin that was often liver, yuck! Liver, although disgusting to my palate is rich in iron and very good for you. But, ever so often it would be what’s for dinner and if you didn’t eat it you didn’t eat.

There were no special meals for little people who were not pleased with the selection. There was no, “If you don’t like your veggies then you have the option to opt out”. It was eat or starve. Many of us are so far removed from that life that we have succumbed to the pressure from ungrateful mouths that don’t know how good they have it. Now we have to give our kids supplements because they don’t have the enough vitamins in their systems because we have acquiesced to their desires and not given what they needed most, to gives them what they wanted most. If we as their parents don’t give them what they need they will be malnourished.

Spiritually the same thing applies, we often want what sounds and feels good and not what is going to be most beneficial. Suffering is one of those things, which the church has lost a taste for. Early Christians saw it as a necessary part of their journey. Now we want fast food faith that tells us we can have it our way. No, God does not care about our childish ranting; He wants us to eat what is necessary for growth. The Bible says, ““ . We can kick, scream, hold our collective breaths, proclaim prophecy, quote scripture and the same thing will be waiting for us, when done complaining. God loves us too much to keep suffering off our plate. That is good news for us…Just a thought.

National Exposure

2010-08-17T05:31:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I recently had an opportunity to do my first national interview, and it was amazing. I did better than even I expected. I have an extensive production background so I know what makes for good broadcasts, but my experience has been being the camera not in front of it. I did have a cheat; in that, my local church has been using me to do video devotionals, which gave me a chance to develop my skills. Then following the national interview, I had an opportunity to go into a studio and shoot promotional segments for my book. This has been a great learning and marketing all at the same time.

One thing I have come to learn is that just because you have a video, interview, promotional material, people won’t necessarily purchase the product or bring you out to speak about it. I was keeping my eyes on the book sales, and there has no direct connection. The people who book my speaking engagements were waiting for nothing. All I could think was, “COME ON!” I have hustled to get this resource done. Students that have received the book, love it. Still, trickle, trickle, trickle… What do you do when you have done everything you know to do?

I believe the answer is wait. Wait for the people who have it to read it…wait. Wait for the people who are waiting to view the interview to view it…wait. Wait for those who are interested in having me come to their event to move on it…wait. Wait for the right person to mention back both the book wait and me... Wait for God to do what I can’t do…wait. The Bible says, “Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living. Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.” …Just a thought.

Damian Jr.'s Story

2010-08-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

I have a new favorite blog. It just so happens to be one telling the story of my favorite little kid of all time. Please visit the site and make it a regular stop.

Welcome to the story! Damian Jr is a young man full of joy, laughter and musical passion who happens to have multiple medical diagnoses. His story is one of hope, determination, and love as he fights for the best life possible! We hope you find inspiration, resources, and support! Enjoy! http://damianjrstory.blogspot.com/

Squash Lessons

2010-08-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

Think on this…my wife and I have been growing squash on our deck. I don’t know if you have ever seen squash growing, but it is wild. It grows like ivy in that it quickly stretches wide across everything. We anxiously awaited the moment when we could harvest this crop which was talking over our deck. We would check them everyday while water them (they take a lot of water and fertilizer). We even began to talk about what we would make with them once they arrived.

Well the day was quickly approaching and we were more excited then ever. I was waiting for them to begin to turn the proper color. Well, calamity hit when I saw small holes in my squash and upon closer examination I saw that some small creature had eaten its way into every one of them. It was devastating. I put time, serious time into caring for what was supposed to be our dinner and now it’s some insects dinner.

I realized something, that is the way many Christians live. We do our best to grow and take care of our spiritual well being. We struggle to water and feed our souls. But, we forget to get rid of the small things that are looking to sabotage our progress and it ruins us. The bible says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up…” Hebrews 12:1 It’s the small things that get us off track. This week carefully consider addressing at least one thing that trips you up…Just a thought

College Impact spoken word by Sam Tulin

2010-07-23T06:09:00.000-07:00

This is just awesome. I am honored to lead amazing students like Sam. Request your copy of College Impact where ever books are sold. ...Just a thought!

Overwhelmed

2010-07-08T16:21:00.001-07:00

Think on this…When creating the College Impact resource I did it with the greatest of intentions with hopes that God would use it to make a difference. The truth of the matter is, that no one really knows if the work they are doing will be well received. Especially, when you are doing something for the first time. That has been my experience.

So, I finished the book and trusted God with the rest. I was anticipating quick responses from the people who had received advanced copies and those who ordered it early, but that didn’t happen. Then I thought, ‘Well I will get feedback from my family because they love me’, to no avail. Then I thought, that since the book was quickly being purchased at my local church, sure my church would read it and nothing.

All I wanted was some feedback. Why, because I wrote it and thought it was good, necessary, and vital, but as a person who was barely literate until the 7^th grade you never know. So I waited, and waited and finally an adult from the church responded with, “I wished I’d had this as a student”. Then my siblings started reading it and they were complementary. That was a big boost.

More and more responses started coming in and I started to see that what I’d hoped for was happening. Students were connecting with the material and it was showing them how to make an impact on their campuses. It’s about what God wants to do through them, and they saw it. I even had one student say that he believed God wanted me to write the book for that purpose.

I am simply overwhelmed. I take it this is what all writers and musical artist experience when they put projects out their hoping that people actually embrace them. So, hearing the rave reviews on the book doesn’t change my resolve, but it is confirmation for what I trusted God to do. It’s encouraging, but now I must do all I can to continue to get the out to students and those who love them…Just a thought

Purchase your copy at http://www.amazon.com/College-Impact-Empowering-Collegiate-Christians/dp/0976273829/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1278631154&sr=8-1

Come on In

2010-07-07T11:19:00.000-07:00

Think on this…my wife and I enjoy having people over to the house. It’s actually a pleasure to host people and to serve them. I usually cook a lot of food and she labors for hours to get the house ready for our guest. It takes us maybe 6-9 hours of preparation for about 3-4 hours of connection time. It may seem like a waste, but for us it is an act of service that brings blessings to our home.

For the holiday we fed what seemed like the world. There were two soon to be married couples at the house and a college student. Then we had an older couple and their mother as well. There were even more people invited, but they could not make it. The conversation jumped from such trivial issues as the love or hate for thrift stores to weighty issues as breast cancer. The group was so diverse that we all learned from each other.

You see it’s enriching to our lives when we serve others. The Bible says, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Galatians 6:7 You see we feed and welcome people, because we love them. Then in response God makes sure that we are taken care of. We don’t do it to receive, but its good to know that as we give out of our desire to love on people we have watched his provision in our lives. It’s a blessing to be able to bless others…Just a thought.

Really?!

2010-06-30T22:15:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I love sketch comedy and one of my all-time favorite shows is Saturday Night Live. They have a recurring segment called, Really?! It’s aimed at asking that old question that need not be answered. My life in so many ways reflects this sketch.

Leave your job, really?! Walk away from a job that has help you provide for your family for 10 years, really?! That’s like telling a lion to leave a fresh zebra kill to search for food in the desert. Really?! Right a book, really?! That’s like asking Animal from the Muppets to do story time for a high school English class, really?! Become a primary care giver, really?! That’s like asking the crazy cat lady from your neighborhood to keep a brand new puppy, really?!

Trust God with your finances, family, and future, really?! REALLY?! Actually, that is not a bad idea, really! We have a tendency to do only the things that make since to us. But, trusting God is never wrong. The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.” Psalm 3:5 That is the biggest lesson God has been teaching me, lately. In which areas of your life are you struggling to trust God? How can you trust Him this week? The most secure place you could ever be is right where God leads you. Really!...Just a thought.

(for your viewing pleasure http://www.hulu.com/watch/56636/saturday-night-live-really-michael-phelps )

Patience Please

2010-06-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

Think on this…it seems like the theme of my life for the past 10+ has been patience. Patience is one of those character traits that we all wish to have, but like many things it doesn’t come easy. I think about the dreams that haven’t happened yet, patience. There are areas of my life in which I thought I would be so much farther than where I am and again, patience. How is this elusive value learned? It’s developed while hanging on to hope as you wait.

When I decided to step out onto the waters and pursue a life of full time service to God and people I thought things would move faster then they have. In my mind I was walking into the great future and everything I desired would be on the other side of my obedience. No, that did not happen. I was diligent to finish my book and to send books to key relationships that I have nurtured. Now, all I can do is wait. Wait for what, you ask? Wait for people to read the book. Wait for those who have read it to book to tell others about it. Wait for people to ask me to come and speak on the matter. Waiting.

I realize one key thing. I am one connection, one endorsement, one mention away from everything I have worked so hard to accomplish with this book to gain momentum. The thing is, I am not on some ego trip, it’s all about accomplishing what I believe God has for me. Even when doing what God has for us there is often a time of challenge and struggle. Jesus had his time in the wilderness; David had to tend his father sheep, Moses lived in exile. This is my time to develop the patience I need to fulfill God’s desired purpose within me. The Bible says, “I pray to God—my life a prayer—and wait for what he'll say and do. My life's on the line before God, my Lord“ Psalm 130:5-6 What are you waiting on God to do in your life? It’s a hard lesson, but a good one…Just a thought

Purpose-versary

2010-06-23T05:49:00.000-07:00

Think on this...I just crossed a major anniversary in my life. No, I am not referencing my 10 year wedding anniversary, that has just past(that is an awesome thing). My Purpose-versary is the 1-year celebration of my leaving corporate America to walk in what I believe God has for me. This was a major transition in my life and I have learned lessons that have drawn my heart closer to Christ. It’s not an easy path that we have been on, but it is one on which we are glad to follow God on.

You see there have been some things that have required us to live differently then before. With one of our incomes being eliminated and the other person working for a church (nobody works for a church to get rich) things have been tighter then ever. We aren’t able to have the things with which we have become accustomed. Even our ten year wedding anniversary was scaled all the way back from Japan, to a Japanese restaurant.

Instead of a steady check for coming as a form of income now my income is based on speaking engagements and book sales. Neither is moving at a substantial pace, although I am grateful for the opportunities that have come. So, we are ever in a hurry up and wait situation. Self-employed people understand that struggle all to well.

Then you must consider my son’s special needs into the equation. He has nonstop therapy sessions, equipment needs, basic requirements that come with having his challenges. Those financial needs have only increased as he has grown. Life is challenging at best!...[Expanded blog http://www.damianlboyd.com/college-impact-blog/ ]

The Power of a Father

2010-06-17T14:59:00.000-07:00

Think on this…with Father’s Day approaching I am thinking about the power of a father. We need not look far to see the effects of poor examples of fatherhood. I see it often as a minister. There are many people that come to me for pastoral care that are dealing with issues stemming from their dads. Some people struggle with abusive dads that have destroyed their since of self worth, and left them with little esteem. Others are left trying to teach themselves lessons that should come from a father, but due to his absence they have to figure it out on there own.

Then you have the overly permissive fathers out there that either didn’t have a backbone enough, or didn’t know how to put healthy boundaries in the home. Their children have a tendency to explore so many pursuits that they can wreck their lives. There is still the adoring fathers out there that can, with great intentions smother, their children and give them the false impression that life is about them. Then when those kids grow up they run into a world that is not centered around them.

The harsh truth is that fathers have a lot of influence over who their children become. It’s not easy being a good, well-balanced dad. It takes everything you have to figure out how to show the right amount of discipline, guidance, and affection. I don’t want my son to have to deal with issues because I was ineffective in my raising him. Especially when my son will use my relationship with him as a template for his relationship with God. That’s a lot of pressure. But, I wonder how many people’s lives would be better if more fathers would wrestle with these thoughts.

Whether or not you have had an exceptional dad in your life or not its good to be grateful for positive they have done. Sometimes we need to be grateful for the areas in which our fathers were good, even if that is hard to identify. If you had no father at all(like me) then thank God for the father figures you have been able to interact with. Why? The bible says, "Behold, I will send youElijah the prophetbefore the great and awesome day of the LORD comes. And he willturn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers, lest I come andstrike the land with a decree of utter destruction." Malachi 4:6 You see, God cares about the fathers in our lives. Honor the men in your life that have taken on this vital challenge and responsibility...Just a thought

10-Year Anniversary

2010-06-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

I have officially been married for 10 years today. It has been one crazy journey, but I truly love that woman more today than I ever have. She is not only beautiful, but she is also extremely intelligent and so spiritual. She is such an encouragement to me, and with her I know I can accomplish all my dreams. She makes me a better man. To add to that she is an incredible mother. I truly have a hard time believing that I have done anything in my life to make me worthy of her. So, I see her as an extension of God’s love and grace towards me. And I get to sleep with her. I apologize if that offends any one but…no I am not I GET TO SLEEP WITH HER :P

To appreciate why this matters so much to me you have to understand that I didn’t grow up with a healthy view of marriage. The few men I saw around me either cheated on or treated their wives horribly. I have no context for having an amazing marriage and I am 10 years into one. That blows my mind! She didn’t have the greatest examples either yet she is a wonderful wife.So you see, why I am so happy to tell the world of my love for this woman? The thing that fires me up is that we have only touched the surface of what we believe we are supposed to accomplish together. Our future is so much brighter than our past.

Now, I want to encourage anyone who is in the rough place of relationship, it’s worth it to stick it out. It’s worth it to go the distance. It gets better if you allow it to. For those who long to be married, I will give you the lessons we learned leading up to June 10, 2000. Love God with everything you have and serve Him faithfully. That’s it! To my bride, I love you with my life. Except for Jesus, you are the love of my life! Thank you for a 10 wonderful year and here is to 50 more. “Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.”

Lessons from the Sitter

2010-06-08T08:04:00.001-07:00

Think on this…my wife and I had a chance get away recently and of course we had to find a sitter for our son. Our usual go to folks were away so we had to find some new people to cover us. Due to my son’s special needs we don’t leave him over night with just anybody. We decided to go with an older couple that both love him, and us, but they had never before watched him. The night before we left, he was up all night and understandably in a funky mood when we dropped him off. I was completely prepared to go back and get him had he “showed the wrong side of himself.”

We picked him up and he was as content as can be. He was smiling and playing. We expected the worst based on how we left him (we felt a little guilty for leaving him with them while he had such a bad attitude). They told us that he didn’t misbehave in the least bit. He didn’t cry once. The husband told me, “He represented you well”. I was relieved to hear that. Then it dawned on me, all parents want their children to represent them well.

I remembered my upbringing and my mom warning us to behave over other people’s houses. She didn’t want us misrepresenting her. My mom was in no way a perfect parent, but she taught us better than we(rather I, as the problem child) often displayed. I remember the look in her eye upon hearing that I had been, in a fight, suspended, or the time the police brought me home. I made her look bad. Now, as a child that was the least of my concerns, but it was at the top of mother’s. My son in this moment had made me as a father look good.

I think that is how God views many Christians. It’s obvious that we belong to him, but sometimes we misrepresent him with our behavior. We are usually not thinking about His reputation as a parent, just our wants and needs. I do it! I think about how sorry I am at following up with people after saying I will. That makes him look bad. I wonder how his face looks when we are brought back to Him because of our horrible behavior. That thought should break our hearts. The Bible says, “As it is written: "God's name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”. Romans 2:24 Do people reject Him because of how we, His children behave? In what way can you better represent Him this week?...Just a thought.

Peace?!

2010-06-01T06:51:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I have been talking to some friends about the concept of peace; in light of our countries current wars it is a good conversation to have. In the late 60s John Lennon’s song was the anthem “All we are saying is give peace a chance.” The thought was that where peace is there is no conflict. I don’t know that I agree with that philosophy. One reason is that I have been in plenty of environment were there was no conflict and still no peace. The second is that peace sometimes comes at the end of the sword, sad as it might be.

Have you considered that war is a part of the human condition? I believe that is God’s plan for us to have to work through the difficult moments for the purpose of creating peace. It’s in the fighting that we see who we are, what we are capable of, and hopefully see whom the real opponent is. For that reason I think many peoples perspective on peace is a little naïve.

The Bible says, “God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 In scripture peace didn’t always mean the absence of war. In this context peace starts on the inside and was settled on the inside. That’s why we need it to guard our thoughts and emotions because there would be things that would challenge our peace. So, peace is not something that is easily attained, whether in an individual or a nation. …Just a thought.

Graduation

2010-05-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

Think on this…Lately, I have been thinking about all of these new high school seniors being released into a collegiate world that many of them are not prepared for. I don’t believe that it’s the goal of parents and youth ministers to send the students’ ill prepared. Actually, I believe they are doing their level best to get these students ready. I think the challenge is that the collegiate environment has a lot more experience attacking our faith then the parents and youth ministries could imagine.

That is why I wrote College Impact. The Bible says, “ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. Blessed is the man  whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.” Psalm 127:4-5 I love the analogy of children being arrows because it gives us God’s purpose for sending them into the world. Instead of sitting idly by as their faith is assaulted they should in turn touch lives, stand for truth, and raise a banner for Christ at their colleges.

How do we make that change? To get that answer pick up a copy of College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence. THIS IS A GREAT GRADUATION PRESENT! You can request the book at your local bookstore or online at http://www.paramindpublications.com/collegeimpact.html or http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0976273829/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=&seller=

...Just a thought.

Fruit from College

2010-05-20T04:24:00.001-07:00

It has been made very clear to me that my book College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence is not only vital, but the fruit from my college career is being produced. I recently ran into a young lady who I went to school with and she really blessed me with her story. She was an “it” girl on campus, she and her friends had the attention of all of the men on campus. She was a sweet girl with a very friendly personality, but she was not at all Christian. We (me and other men called the MOGs-men of God) had begun to make an impact on our campus and she was there to see it. At the time we would pray for her, but she was frankly one of the last people that we thought would become a Christian.

After delivering the message on this Sunday, she ran up to me asked, do you remember me? I said of course and I even remembered her whole name. She told me that not only was she a believer, but she was in a theological program and wanted to work in the ministry. My mind was blown. I usually try to hold my shock, when someone tells me they have received Christ, but I couldn’t help it. I even called my former residential director and he had the same reaction.

He and I began to reminisce over the times we would pray for and talk to her about Christ. My book outlines the importance of making a difference on the college campus, and how it has reverberations long after. She is the living example of my college influence. She literally overwhelmed me with her life transformation. This is only one of many ways the campuses are critical in God’s plan to advance his Kingdom in the earth. I pray that more students embrace the principles in the book and make a difference at their colleges. “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us…Ephesians 3:20 ”

Naked

2010-05-18T03:57:00.000-07:00

Think on this…being naked is about stripping off the layers that we put on ourselves to present positive images to others. The reality is that we often cover our flaws and weaknesses to appear to be something that we wished we were. We see this in relationships all the time. The guys will be so considerate and attentive, but underneath he is selfish and lazy. The woman will be so delicate and sweet, then the moment you see her with the make up off so too some the facade. We walk around in interview mode hoping to fool people with a padded resume. It’s all to avoid being exposed to the truth of who we are. So we cover up.

I have a reputation at my church. I am the speaker, preacher, minister guy, but I have a tendency to tell people how screwed up I am. Why, because I don’t want to project something that I am not. There are too many “preachers” projecting perfection and people need to know that we have issues to. That gives others hope! We all need to be stripped of the stuff that keeps our true selves hidden. When we are finally naked we can deal with the good, bad, and ugly of who we really are. I am not just talking about “keeping it real” because I have discovered that you can be real and wrong at the same time. The difference between naked and real is that naked allows you to deal with the reality instead of settling for it.

Jesus hated people putting on facades. While talking to people in his day he point out those who tried to act as if they had it all together. "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” Matthew 23:24-27 I think Jesus hated it so much because he came to give people a chance to be authentic and clean to the core. That is why he died on the cross, to take all of our mess. But, if we keep all of the layers then we can’t even see how much we need him to cleanse us. Naked is the new Real…Just a thought.

Advance

2010-05-13T06:42:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I have been thinking about what I am supposed to be doing with my life. The chances I must take, and the risk that are involved. I realized one important thing, its time to move forward! Honestly, I have not seen the full scope of what I am to accomplish and my heart longs for it. Okay, yes I have stepped into part of it in that I have left my corporate job. And yes, I have completed my first book, College Impact. Most people would say that I have arrived, based on what they see me accomplishing. One thing I have learned is that success is relative.

I do have some real needs requiring me to continue to push forward like, my family needing to eat. But, I am also feeling the weight and call of things God had spoken to me while in high school. I can’t look at where I am as a gauge for where God is taking me. This is not an attempt to think more highly of myself then I ought to, it’s an admission that I have so much more to do and I need God to do it. There are more dreams to be realized, more people to be touched by the love of God, and more leaders to be developed. There is a world that needs to be reached.

I know that this may sound weird to some, but I am not satisfied. I hope that you feel the same way about your life. God is not done with you yet. You have more to accomplish then you have thus far. How do I know that? YOUR STILL BREATHING! I can’t quit and neither can you. The Bible gives us the remedy, “I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.” Philippians 3:12-14…Let’s advance.

Coaching

2010-05-11T07:01:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I coach some amazing ladies that we lovingly call the Pinkies. It’s the Pink Team from my wife’s flag football league. We have a couple of championships and lost in last year’s championship game, so yeah, we are pretty good. This year we have had some major challenges at 3-3. We almost didn’t make it into the playoffs, so we have had some cause for concerns. We have been coming together as a team and are fired up to play the team that beat us in last year’s championship.

As a coach, it’s my job to make sure my team is ready for the challenges ahead, and at game time I guide them effectively. Why, because I can see what they can’t. I have given more of my time and energy to knowing the game. During the game I can see things that they can’t. I have to plan based on the tendencies of the other teams strategy, because I study them. I have to motivate the team to push when they feel that they can’t go on, because I have to know their limits more than they do. That’s coaching!

God coaches us in similar ways. Why, because He can see what we can’t. He has given more time and energy to knowing the His plan. In our lives He can see things that we can’t. He has already planned based on the tendencies of the enemy, because He made them also. He has to motivate us to push when we feel like we they can’t go on, because He knows our limits more than we do. The Bible says, “I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” Jeremiah 29:11 …Just a thought.

My Two Favorite Women

2010-05-07T09:48:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I had an amazing weekend with some amazing ladies. One was my wife and she is a great mother, wife, and friend. The second was my mother who was all I had growing up and who I love with all my heart. Most people assume that when a wife and mother-in-law are in the same house things would be contentious. On the contrary, it was a wonderful time of connection. I realized in that moment that the two most important women in my life were there at the same time. It was calming for me.

My mom is a study in compassion. As long as I can remember she has had a big heart. She has some big flaws too, but she has a heart of gold, and that heart always forgives. My wife has shown me the meaning of commitment. She is a constant force in my and my son’s life. With our son’s special needs she has more than become his hero and mine also. You see how these two women are awesome? I was blessed to have them both in my presence.

The bible says, “Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.” Romans 13:7 I love these women and I give them all the honor and respect due them. I would not be who I am without them and I am so grateful. These two women mean so much to me. Who are the women in their lives that have made the difference? How can you make sure they know how much they mean to you?...Just a thought.

So Emotional

2010-05-04T04:04:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I recently wrote about my licensing/ordination. Well, the day finally came and even though the Boyd contingency was smaller due to a tragic death in the family, the moment was still very special. It was an emotional experience for me. I was so grateful for the family that was able to come, even though I fully understood why others couldn’t make it. One of my cousins, in particular, spent his 17-year wedding anniversary with us. They thought it was fitting because I introduced them to one another. That was so humbling to see their love for me expressed in that way. So, while hugging them I broke into tears. I cried like a baby.

Then there was my mom. You have to look over my past blogs to get a good idea of my relationship with my mom. I love her, but life was hard for me as a child. So looking into the audience and seeing that lady looking up at her son, a licensed minister was too much for me to bare. I wept like a little girl. People in the back were asking, “Who is that woman crying?” It was just so overwhelming. If I would have been licensed years ago (which could have been the case because I have been doing it for a while) it would have not had been so special.

So, the big message today is that I cry like a spanked 2-year-old. No, I guess the message is that we should cherish the relationships we have and the people that love us. We can have a tendency to think that we are deserving of both love and respect, but that attitude reeks of a bloated since of self-importance. It also keeps us from appreciating the people in our lives…Just a thought.

Mountain High/Valley Low

2010-04-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

Think on this…It’s has been a wild week for me emotionally. The week began with me finishing the final ministerial assessment. The process has been intense and required a lot from my family and me. This was supposed to be a triumphant moment. I was excitedly anticipating seeing my family who were preparing to see our home for the first time. This week began with lots of potential and hope. Tuesday morning while recovering from that last session I got several calls that would change things significantly.

Both of my siblings were calling me to tell me that my brother-in-law’s son died suddenly, that morning. Sixteen years old and gone, just like that. Of course that changed the trip to Atlanta and the celebratory atmosphere, and rightly so. What it created in me was a major dichotomy of emotions. Joy over finally getting my ministerial license (I have honestly been doing the duties for a years, so this should be a big moment). The other feeling was one of morning and heartache over my family being in such great pain.

If I am honest I don’t know what to feel. In the midst all of the festivities I have tried to simply be present, and the same while talking to my family. There is no formula for this place in which I find myself. There are no quick fixes. This is a great moment in personal and ministry life and a horrible one for my families. It is, what it is. “Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” 2 Tim. 2:3 Moments like this are to be walked through, not avoided or belittled. Life happens, and ceases to happen, that is the rhythm with which we live…Just a thought.

That’s just Awesome!

2010-04-26T04:09:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I have been busy. I mean really busy. I of course have been doing my best to make sure that my book gets into people’s hands. I have also been completing a very rigorous ministerial class. I have been in meetings upon meetings and missing other meetings. Then, I have been in the never-ending struggle to get baby sitters for my son while my wife and I tag team all of these meetings. Also, I haven’t been sleeping very well because my son has his two bottom teeth coming in and he has been getting up at all times of the night uncomfortable. It’s been crazy in the Boyd household.

Most people that have been reading these blogs have noticed my repeated mention of College Impact. Rightly so, because I really need to sell books, but also because someone is reading this blog thinking, ‘Yeah, I still need to get a copy of that’. The interesting thing is that I had been quieter than usual lately because of all of the craziness. Guess what? My wife was looking on Amazon the other day and there was a flurry of activity around my book. College Impact was as high as 33,000 of all books selling at that time. That’s just awesome! I have no idea who was buying them, or where that came from. But thank you, God!

That is the struggle. I know that it’s my job to do what I can do. But, the tricky part is that God does what He does and He doesn’t need to check in with us to do so. He moves in his timing and in his own way. We never know if what we have done was enough. All we can do is our best. I think I have been doing that, but only He knows. That’s why I love how the Bible says, “Now tohim who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 That’s just AWESOME!...and that’s Just a thought.

Paramind Publications

http://www.paramindpublications.com/collegeimpact.html

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/College-Impact-Empowering-Collegiate-Christians/dp/0976273829/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271542074&sr=8-1

2010-04-23T04:00:00.000-07:00

Think on this... As I was preparing to write todays blog I realized that I had already written it! So I will send you to my other blog today. Just a reminder I still need as much support as possible getting the word out about College Impact. Any help you could provide would be so appreciated...Just a thought.

http://www.damianlboyd.com/college-impact-blog/

My Brothers

2010-04-21T06:47:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I recently spent a couple of days with some great men. These gentlemen were like me in their dedication to working with college students and young adults. One thing was amazingly clear to me. College Impact is so needed. I was considering dialing down the continual writings about the book, but these brothers of mine encouraged me to keep going. The overwhelming consensus was that this book was the missing component in the college arena. It was so affirming.

The danger for someone like me is that people will grow weary in hearing about the same thing repeatedly. But, since one of the points of a blog is to update people as to how I am doing this message is still relevant. Greater then that I hope that this blog in some way shows my tenacity and trust for God in the light of challenges and difficulty. I also hope that in some way people are inspired to live their dreams out.

The big message is trust God with your dreams. Why, Because God is trustworthy or worthy of your trust. If you have been following these blogs for a while you know that it has been a road littered with set back and frustration. But, I followed him in spite of funds getting low and disappointment. All I know is that God has me! The Bible says, “O Sovereign LORD, you are God! Your words are trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant.” 2 Samuel 7:28 So, yes I enjoyed my time with my brothers because they reminded me of why I have done this and I will continue to trust Him with everything I am as I move forward. College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence is available at the links below.

Paramind Publications

http://www.paramindpublications.com/collegeimpact.html

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/College-Impact-Empowering-Collegiate-Christians/dp/0976273829/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271542074&sr=8-1

So Encouraged

2010-04-19T06:34:00.001-07:00

Think on this…I must make a confession. I have been nervous about the response to my book College Impact. You see, people have been purchasing it, slowly but steadily and I was getting little to no feedback. Now, for someone who has a tendency to care about what people think, that was hard. I felt God saying to me, “Don’t worry about what they think, know that I am proud of you.” That was so encouraging, but it didn’t stop my inward struggle right away. Peace came over time. But, it came.

There is a healthy side of getting feedback. The reality is, I produced a product that needs to be purchased. So I need to know if it is good and helpful. What benefit is a book that no one wants to buy? My challenge was not being ruled by others opinions of my work. I used to be such a people pleaser that I had to quiet the old voices in my head. It was harder then I want to admit. But, here I am saying IT TOOK A COUPLE OF DAYS!

Now, the responses are rolling in, more like trickling in, but they are coming and are affirming. It was my job to write what I believed needed to be said. I had to write what I believed God wanted me to say, and leave the rest up to Him. We took a lot of time to get it to be as good as possible and then release it into His hands. This is not a veiled attempt to get words of support; it’s just an honest tale from my journey. I have learned to rest in these words, “Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age." Matt 28:20 …Just a thought.

Salesman

2010-04-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I’m realizing lately I am a bit of a salesman. I have a problem with that because I used to work for sales people and I honestly don’t have a favorable image of them. It always seemed as if they were great at over selling and under delivering. My struggle was that I had to come through on the big promises they made. FRUSTRATING.

I have to settle the reality that I am a salesman. It’s my job to tell people about a product (the love of God) and try to convince them to make an investment. What is a preacher, but a salesman? Add to that the reality that I am in the process of trying to get a physical book sold, and yes I have officially joined the sales ranks.

Here is the truth; I need not be ashamed of getting people to embrace the love of God because it is quite frankly the best “product” on the market. I’m saying, invest your life in God’s love and get more then you can receive in return. Instead of investing in pursuits that don’t satisfy, embrace a God who wants to give you life to the full. I can stand behind this “product” because I am in love with it. So I can sell it proudly. Then, because my book College Impact is all about representing the same “product” I can stand behind it as well. So, yes I am a salesman!

The challenge arises when we don’t use the “product”. So many people talk about God and His love and never engage with Him themselves. A friend of mine once said, “I feel like an infomercial for a product I don’t use.” That is the danger. I am learning to stand firm in what, or rather whom I represent. I believe in the love of God and I am overtaken by it. The bible says, “However, as it is written: No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 That is worth selling…Just a thought.

to purchase College Impact visit- http://www.amazon.com/College-Impact-Empowering-Collegiate-Christians/dp/0976273829/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271155843&sr=1-3

The Process

2010-04-07T06:11:00.000-07:00

Think on this…In 2007 I had a crazy idea to write a book. Now, with my background that is a high and lofty goal. But, I had been working with college students for ten years and I wasn’t seeing the type of impact that I was anticipating in the collegiate arena. I would see a room full of college students that would worship in large gatherings and go to their campuses and live lives that were incongruent with the big experience that they just had. Maybe it was an intimidation factor or maybe a mindset thing, but something had to change. Why? Because there was more that God wanted to do with, for, and through them. So, I started writing.

Well a year later I was still working at my corporate job and I had little time to devote to the writing process. One of my writing mentors, Tim Elmore, said just keep writing. I listened and would have ebbs and flows of writing moments that got me to about half way there. Then in the middle of 2008 I heard a very clear, “finish it!” So, I feverishly put down what I was writing and by early 2009 there was an interested publisher and a looming layoff at my job. Once the job ended we were already in full swing with the publisher and the dream I had was almost a reality.

Enter 2010 and the book is finally here. College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence is a reality and now what. Well it’s time to sell the dream. That is where things get a little funky. I can truly say that I believe the collegiate world will truly be touched by God’s love if college students read this book. But, I have a struggle going in and telling people why they should buy into what I am doing. It could be humility or just plain nervousness. So, what I am doing is getting a little help from my friends. Instead of doing cold calls I am recruiting my friend who know and believe in me to be the bridges to relationships and opportunities that I don’t have. Cold calls rarely work.

I have to use relationships to get where I believe God wants me to be to make a difference. That is a good thing. You see my tendency is to try and shoulder things on my own, but I need the people I love to help me. So, my questions to you are, are there things that God has place inside of you that you have refused to do? Next, what help do you need to get that done? Why? The Bible says, “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 No one benefits when we sit on what God has given us and refuse to ask for the help we need to get it out there…Just a thought.

Everyday I’m Hustlin’

2010-04-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

There is a hip-hop song by a rapper named Rick Ross called Hustlin’. The hook or chorus of the song has as its anthem “Everyday I’m Hustlin’” I can totally understand the sentiment now that I am working to get my first book in the hands of those for whom it’s written. Because many people have attributed nefarious connotations to the concept of hustling or its urban derivative hustlin’, lets use definition of hustle that I mean in this context. “Hus·tle: to proceed or work rapidly or energetically; to be aggressive, esp. in business or other financial dealings.”
I have always been a bit of a hustler (based on the above definition). For instance, during my middle school years I lived in Camden, NJ. We were very poor, so to get a little extra money I would buy candy from the corner store and sell it to my classmates. I was so successful that the school developed its own store. While in college to support myself, I had several hustles. I shined shoes, started selling drinks and snacks while undercutting the overpriced vending machines. I was also a freelance photographer for local college. Hustlin’!

Now, I have a new book! College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence. I am hustlin’ again. I really believe in the products end goal. The goal of the book is for collegiate Christians to awaken to the full life in Christ and touch the live of others for the Glory of God. It’s all about the Glory of God! That is something that is worth hustlin’ for. “All thy works shall praise thee, O LORD; and thy saints shall bless thee.” Psalm 145:10

(to read the full article visit http://www.damianlboyd.com/college-impact-blog/ )

College Impact is Here We NEED YOUR HELP!

2010-03-31T11:20:00.000-07:00

With the arrival of my first book College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence, we are intensely trying to get the word out. We need your help to let people know about it. How?

1. By letting every church you either attend or know of about it. Why, because statistics say that most High School church kids will walk away from the Christian faith. Its an important resource for their students.

2. By buying books for high school and seniors and college students in your life. It is a great graduation gift.

3. By telling friends and relatives who have college students and high school seniors in their lives about the book.

4. By getting the word out to any media outlets that you know of that would be interested in this type of books. i.e. I am from New Jersey and my home town paper might be interested.

5. By passing on the information about the book on any and all social media outlets with which you are apart.

How can you purchase a copy?

1. http://www.amazon.com/College-Impact-Empowering-Collegiate-Christians/dp/0976273829/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1270052317&sr=1-2

2. http://www.paramindpublications.com/collegeimpact.html

Please know that we both need and value your assistance. This has been a labor of love. Thank you so much for your support!

Separation Anxiety

2010-03-29T05:40:00.001-07:00

Think on this…An interesting dynamic has been happening in my house. My 5-year-old son is having a difficult time. Children with my son’s type of special needs have ebbs and flows in their development. When he was younger we dealt with his separation anxiety and thought it was over. Well, we are going through another round of that process, and it is hard to deal with to say the least.

Every time I walk away for a brief moment he looses it. In his mind I have abandoned him. I found myself reassuring him. “Daddy is here, I am not going anywhere. If I go away for a moment I will always come back if I can.” I hope to get through to him that daddy is dependable and that I am always here for him. Even though I have not done anything to undermine his trust in my stability and love for him, all I can do is continually remind him that daddy is here.

While encouraging my son I believe I heard God speaking to me. While telling Him that I was still there, God was saying the same thing to me. He was there, because He loved me and didn’t leave me alone. He like me was as close as a call or prayer away. It was hard to hear, but powerful at the same time. It’s really impacting my life and I hope I am showing my son a better way. “So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, Abba, Father.”…Just a thought

(for the expanded blog on this topic visit http://www.damianlboyd.com/college-impact-blog/ )

Preaching to Myself

2010-03-26T07:57:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I have had a number of good conversations with people lately. I am not saying the conversations have been about good things, but they have been important. Whether it’s a friend who is struggling in their marriage, to a person dealing with esteem issues, or a leader afraid take a step of boldness. I have learned that when speaking to others I am in essence talking to myself.

What do I mean that I preach to myself? I listen intently to what they are saying, I think about an appropriate response to their query, and I say things that make sense to them as though I were talking to myself. I try to learn as I am speaking and place myself in their shoes. It’s both a lesson of empathy and willingness to learn all at the same time. The tendency for most people is to say really good things to others and that don’t change to communicator, just the one being communicated to.

I don’t want to tell someone else truth and it bounce of me. That prepares me for hypocrisy. We can be geniuses as it pertains to others problems and idiots when it comes to our own. Have you ever heard a person give advice and realized that they we saying the very thing that they needed to hear? We need to learn to preach to ourselves. It would be dumb to tell a man to listen to his wife’s needs more and I don’t listen to my wife. The bible says, “I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.” 1 Corinthians 9:27b It’s a life lesson that I think would benefit is all…Just a thought.

Update

2010-03-24T09:15:00.001-07:00

Think on this…if you are a constant reader of this blog. I have good and important news. We are officially ready to release the first printing of College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence. YEAH! Sorry, I am just a little excited. We have labored over this thing for 3 months beyond the initial due date. Things have not grown more urgent in the Boyd household, and we have seen God’s faithfulness along the way. But, its here, finally!

I have said before that we need your help. Yes, we need your help to push the book to college students and anyone who loves them. We are asking that you consider purchasing your copy. We also need you to tell every news outlet and person of influence in the college arena about it. We need your help. We believe that this book is going to be a spark that ignites a revolution. Please, consider becoming a part of the movement by getting the word out. Next week we will have all the marketing opportunities ready for you. If you are willing to help, then just post a comment on this blog and we will get back to you. Thank you in advance for your support…Just a thought.

Fridays

2010-03-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I love Fridays. Since I was a child I remember the anticipation building on Friday during school. It was the thought that I would be free and from the rigor that the week brought. That continued with 10 years in the corporate environment looking forward to being home on the weekends. Friday was a day filled with the promise of peace and rest.

The harsh reality is that weekends don’t hold the same mystique as they used to. Now that I am working from home and I can rest more often than before. Actually, weekends are harder then the weeks nowadays. For instance, I have to teach tonight, I have to coach a football game tomorrow, I have to work most of the day on Sunday and I still love Fridays.

The reason I love Fridays is that I like the fact that there is a collective sigh of relief from everyone. Everyone has that same since of expectation around the concept of weekend. There is the overall feeling of freedom and relaxation. I think that is a healthy thing. “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. Psalm 62:5” That’s why I love Fridays…Just a thought.

Being-Haved

2010-03-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

Think on this…our whole lived we are told to behave. This is the goal of all children, to act in a way as to not bring shame on your parents. I remember times when I was misbehaving and someone would tell me ‘I’m telling your mom’. That would often be just the encouragement I needed to act better. That was the problem, I was acting, I wasn’t actually better I was just trying to perform well. You could find me later doing the very same things. It was an issue of Character verses Behavior.

Behavior is what you see when people try to live up to cultural norms. Character is who you are when no one is looking. It’s the seat of your moral center. You can alter behavior, but your underlying Character will eventually present itself. Whether good or bad your character will ultimately breakthrough. We are not usually taught how to develop those inner attributes to ensure good character. Internally do we not only understand why we are to behave, but are we in agreement. That is when we start to touch approach the inward character.

If we learn to deal with our character then our habits change automatically not the other way around. Nothing just happens. The issue is often that we have refused or neglected to deal with our character. The bible says, “For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy—full of greed and self-indulgence! … First wash the inside of the cup and the dish, and then the outside will become clean, too.” Matt 23:25-27 I am learning to work on the person within, and I encourage you to do the same…Just a thought.

Just Sick

2010-03-15T11:27:00.000-07:00

Think on this…I have been under the weather lately and I am desperately trying to shake it. The crazy thing is, I know exactly where this came from. I have been burning the preverbal candle at both ends and in the middle. I have been speaking quite frequently, I am in a training class, I just sent the final version of my book, etc. Things are busy, and my body is having a hard time keeping up. I am not complaining because I love my life. It can be challenging, but this is much better then the former. I used to work two jobs and I was sick more often as my body just couldn’t keep up.

I have learned that sometimes, sickness comes right when you need to slow down. It is just interesting that our bodies are made that way. I have learned to appreciate my bodies’ ability to make me slow down. I find comfort in that. Why? Because I am prone to run myself ragged. So slowing down is a good thing for me.

What is the solution? I think it’s learning to slow down more frequently. The Bible has a perfect solution; it’s called a Sabbath. One day in a week to rest, really rest. Now, I am not one of those people that thinks we need to not buy food, or wash clothes on Saturday, but it is biblical that 1 day out of 7 we rest. The Bible says, “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his.” Hebrews 4:9-10 There will always be more to do. If we don’t learn to rest, we might not be around long enough to actually get it done…Just a thought.

Hypocritical

2010-03-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I believe there is a little hypocrisy in most of us. Now, I know that is a bad thing for a preacher to say. It’s the nature of man is to say one thing and do another. I remember the old adage ‘do what I say and not what I do’. How many parents, even if they have not said it, have done it? Don’t smoke, yet they smoke. Don’t lie, yet the tell stories about Santa Clause and the Easter Bunny. That is hypocrisy.

I wrestle with that as well. I tell people to keep their minds and hearts clean, but I am sometimes challenged with my own. I am not saying that I have killed someone, or committed adultery, but in the areas people deem less important I sometimes struggle. The truth of the matter is that God sees all sin the same. So what do you do with your own hypocrisy?

The correct approach is to deal with your own heart. It doesn’t mean that truth is not truth and doesn’t need to be communicated. It’s my responsibility to remain as clean as possible on the inside and do my very best preach what I practice. The bible says, “You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.” Matthew 7:5 As I continue to deal with my own issues I am more capable to help others. That’s the remedy for hypocrisy…Just a thought.

Oscars

2010-03-08T06:33:00.000-08:00

Think on this... I love the Oscars. I guess it’s the whole spectacle and grander of the event that draws me in. I try to forget that the awards are mostly political. I try to forget that we as society place some of these people on such a high pedestal that they will never live up to our expectations. I even try to forget that there are more pressing issues in the world. I just enjoy the moment for what it is and nothing more.

It kind of reminds me of heaven. How? We one day we will be ushered down a long runway. In that moment our work will be evaluated. Whether we lived up to the hype or fell flat. How many resources were invested verses the quality of the end product. In that moment will we be adorned correctly or will we be ill dressed for the occasion. Ultimately, will we receive any rewards for our work or will we just be happy we were invited at all.

The reality is that we will all be evaluated for the work we do in this life. The pomp and circumstances aside, what truly matters is that moment. “This proves that the conscience is like a law written in the human heart. And it will show whether we are forgiven or condemned, when God appoints Jesus Christ to judge everyone's secret thoughts, just as my message says.” Romans 2:15-17 On that day I want to walk away with the prize…Just a thought.

Finding Your Strength

2010-03-05T04:17:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I have been very busy lately speaking, teaching, mentoring, and writing. The cool thing is, that is what I am supposed to be doing with my life. That is why I desired to leave Corporate America to more fully find my area of greatest effectiveness. It’s all based on my personal strengths and abilities. I can’t take credit for them, all I can do is maximize what God has given me.

We all need to find the areas in which we absolutely ROCK! We can spend so many years of our lives drifting through our days only wanting more. But, we rarely take the time to mine out the richness that is within to discover the treasure beneath. It’s not an easy process, and it could take some people years, but it’s worth the time. So many people ignore that deep calling and in their 40’s and 50’s they have a radical realization that they have wasted their lives. This is called the mid-life crisis. This can be avoided by searching for significance sooner rather than later.

Life is way too short to be wasted on pursuits that don’t satisfy. God cares about the work you do. “God planned for us to do good things and to live as he has always wanted us to live. That's why he sent Christ to make us what we are.” Ephesians 2:10 If God cares about what you do, then it makes sense that he would help you discover it. But, you must do your part by intentionally looking inside to find it. It’s a worthwhile expedition…Just a thought.

Learning to Trust More

2010-03-03T06:24:00.000-08:00

Think on this…about 9 months ago I lost my job. It was perfect for me because I was about to walk away from it. That to most people seemed like the worst thing imaginable in an economy such as ours. But, we believed God was leading me to do my life’s passion, which is to communicate a message of hope to the world, full time. That sounds good, but it doesn’t pay that much initially.

So, things have been lean in the Boyd household. On top of that we have my 18-year-old nephew living with us and that is like having 3 new mouths to feed. It would be awesome to tell you that money has flooded in and speaking opportunities are numerous, but that hasn’t happened. What has transpired is, every time we get low on funds more is made available. It’s a miracle. What has also happened is, I have finished my first book, College Impact, available next week. I have developed a website www.damianlboyd.com . I am a blog writing machine. I am tweeting and facebook-ing regularly. And yes, I have even done a speaking engagement here and there.

I have seen God in the process of trusting him with my life more fully. Either you trust God or you don’t. I have learned to allow Him to show Himself faithful and I have found He is. My responsibility is to continue trusting Him. “ But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; I say, “You are my God.” Psalm 31:14 I love the old hymn, “Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus. Just to take Him at His word. Just to wait upon his promise. Just to know thus saith the Lord” …Just a thought.

Another Twit that Tweets

2010-03-01T04:18:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I recently joined the twitter craze. I have been fighting it for a while, not because I am against technology. Not because I am an old man that doesn’t understand what the kids are doing nowadays (well maybe a little). My reluctance was more an issue of self-preservation. From what? Narcissism! I have a tendency to think too much of my life and myself and minimize what is most important. Twitter seems to feed that practice.

Twitter enables the narcissist by making their every thought, whim, and experience news worthy. I AM NOT THAT IMPORTANT, and neither are you. Whether or not I had eggs or cereal for breakfast this morning is not something to broadcast to the world. Even worst, many people are hoping to say something provocative enough to gain global, wide spread, acclaim and acquire their 15 min. of fame.

So, to protect my own heart I have been resisting Twitter. I had some of my good friends fuss at me lately, because I was not apart of the cool crowd. They reminded me that I have a book coming out, I speak to young adults regularly, and as far as they are concerned I have something important to say. So, here is my compromise, I endeavor to tweet something important and meaningful, and as always make much of God and less of me. “He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30 I don’t want to be another twit that tweets…Just a thought.

What if?

2010-02-26T04:53:00.000-08:00

Think on this…what if your life is supposed to me more than it has become?

What if your life is not an accident?

What if you were born for a greater purpose?

What if all mighty God does love you?

What if God has a plan for your life?

What if everything that the Bible says is true?

What if Jesus did come to the earth?

What if Jesus actually lived a perfect life, died on a cross for your sins, was raised from the grave, all to give you a relationship with God?

What if all of the bad things you have ever done have already been atoned for and God is just waiting for you to embrace it?

What if those random thoughts of going to church, getting to know God, and reading the Bible is God’s way of trying to get your attention?

What if God is able to do more than you could ever ask or think?

What if God is whom He says He is, and will reward you for deciding to trust Him with your life?

What if?

…Just a thought.

Coaching

2010-02-24T06:39:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I am a football coach for my wife’s flag football team. I never thought I would enjoy coaching women. Yuck! Stupid girls! But, I have fallen in love with these women and have come to appreciate their willingness to learn and develop into true football players. We recently started prepping for the upcoming season and I am working them out.

It’s fun to watch them get mad at me for making them run. To be honest, I get a kick out of making them do more then they would like to on their own. That is the job of a coach, to push, train, develop, and fight for them, and with them if necessary. It is all for one reason, so that they can be as successful as possible. It’s all about helping them win.

I realized recently, that’s what the Holy Spirit does with us. God is always pushing and working with us to help us grow and be all we can be. It doesn’t always feel good when He is leading us, but the end goal is our victory. That is so encouraging to a former loser like me. The Bible says, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” John 14:26 When we follow the leadership of the coach, victory is in our sights…Just a thought.

Tiger, Tiger, Tiger Woods Y’all

2010-02-22T05:20:00.000-08:00

Think on this…with Tiger Woods’ recent public statement about his infidelity, it is interesting to watch the reactions of reporters and cultural critics. It’s odd to hear people’s opinion of his apology, because I can’t help but wonder how I would feel in that situation. This is not to excuse his bad behavior. But, how would you like it if others judge your every apology?

Did you really mean you where sorry for cutting someone off in traffic? Are you truly apologetic about your bad attitude? I know that I can’t stand it when people think they know what I am thinking. Now, Tiger may or may not be sincere, I don’t know. The one thing I do know is that I am way under qualified to figure it out. We spend way too much time trying to judge others motives, and so little time ensuring our own are pure.

The Bible says, “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.“ Matt 7:2 I know I don’t want to be held hostage by other people opinions. I believe him, because he said it. Anymore then that is speculation at best…Just a thought.

I Keep Forgettin

2010-02-19T04:19:00.000-08:00

Think on this…if you are a child of the 70’ and early 80’s you probably remember the Michael McDonald song, “I Keep Forgettin.” That anthem has been repeating in my head lately, and it made me think about my own life. The truth is, I keep forgettin who I am and who I am supposed to be. Why, because it’s easy to forget the things that we ought to never forget.

I don’t know if it’s just the human condition, or my own weakness, but I tend to have a long memory when it comes to my faults and a short memory when it comes to my strengths. I can be so focused on where I fall short, that I miss the fact that I have greatness on the inside of me. I think that is true for most people. I can be so comforting with others as they learn to live above their depravity. I am awesome at reminding people of their journey and the potential on the inside of them. But, when it comes to me, I keep forgettin.

So, what is the solution? I have to remind myself constantly, so that I never again forget. There is a catch though; in my own ability I am a wreck! What I have to remember is, who Christ is in me. Trust me, all who knew me before my conversion would echo that statement. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 That is something that is too important to keep forgettin…Just a thought.

Quality Time

2010-02-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

Think on this…it’s rare that I get a moment away with my wife. I love that woman, but life has a way of keeping us focused on the daily grind. We are left filling our days with stuff that is not connected to the romantic notions that we would rather indulge. We connect periodically, and I am happy for the fact that we are still going strong after 10 years.

We used to get away more, but life with a child of special needs has its demands. So, when we can get a moment with each other we cherish it. We were in one of those windows and it was awesome. If you are a regular reader then you may have notice a slight delay in my posts, but I was with my woman. And it was so good. I love that woman!

We are learning to invest more time in our relationship, in the light of our difficult circumstances. If our relationship doesn’t work then our family doesn’t work. If we focus more on our son and his issues then we do one another then we all loose. I must continue to treasure her above all, but Jesus. That is the role of a husband. “Be happy with the wife you married when you were young.” Proverb 5:18 …Just a thought

Happy to be me!

2010-02-09T17:36:00.001-08:00

Think on this… I have spent many years worried about my looks, my hair loss, and my overall value. It is exhausting to be burdened with what everyone else thinks of you. That time could have been better invested in other ways. Maybe you can’t understand that way of life, and I am happy for you if that is your story. But, if you identify with the value struggle then this will hopefully encourage you.

I worked hard to be like other people. At first it was my friends Damon and Mike. Both were outrageously confident and I love surfing in the wake of their strength. Then there was my cousin Kyle who by his own admission was, “Not conceded but convinced.” I even tried to walk with his bowlegged gate. Then I wanted to be like my pastor and command authority. I would try to speak in his deep tone. All of these failed because that was not who God had created me to be.

So, I had to discover the beauty inside of me. I am special, and God has a plan for me. I am so unique that he wired me to do what only I was meant to do. God knows how flawed I am, and He loves me anyway. So, who am I to think less of myself then I ought. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 I am who I am by the grace of God and if you don’t like it, that is your problem. …Just a thought

Promise Keeper

2010-02-03T04:31:00.001-08:00

Think on this…a friend of mine once told a story that both encouraged and challenged me. He told a story about his son, who before he passed away said this of his father. “He has always kept his promises to me.” His son died knowing that his father’s word was always dependable. Upon hearing that, I was quietly moved, as I want that to be said of me.

Years ago there was a saying; “My word is my bond”. In the urban community it became, “Word is bond.” We said that with so much enthusiasm, although I think we missed it’s meaning. That phrase carries the promise that if I say it, you can count on it. There was no maybe, might, or possibly in that statement. If I say it, that settles it. There is so much power in that concept. I think we give ourselves too many excuses for why we are justified in not keeping our word.

I wish I could say that I have never faltered in this area. But, I endeavor to be the type of man who can be trusted to do what he says he will do. I have discovered that it takes a couple key characteristics to do that. First, we must not commit to anything we can’t do. Second we must have a, whatever it takes approach to keeping our word. The bible says, “Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” Matthew 5:37 I invite you to join me in becoming a promise keeper…Just a thought.

Black History

2010-02-01T05:09:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I love being a black American, African American, and/or a descendant of enslaved Africans in America. I don’t really have any hang ups on which of these phrases chosen to describe me, I love it. I value my history. My ancestors were taken from their homes in Africa, probably sold off by someone who looked like them. Then they were subjected to a torturous journey across the ocean jammed into ships like sardines and many died. Upon arrival they were sold like cattle in open squares. Forced to work, bred like beast, raped, etc. Then once they were free endured lynching and unjust laws. Years later we still wrestle with the ramifications of all of these atrocities.

All of that and one thing still grabs my heart; we are still here. In spite of all that has been done to us and all that we have done to ourselves, we are still here. We have overcome, and are still overcoming. I don’t think this is a license to hold grudges, but I see one outstanding quality, resilience. I know it’s my custom to reference scriptures, no one scripture seems appropriate, and I don’t desire to have blogs with 20+ verses. So, I will end this blog with the words of an old Negro spiritual. “Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty we are free at last”…Just a thought.

Somebody’s Watching Me

2010-01-29T10:46:00.000-08:00

Think on this…Do you remember the 80’s song, “Somebody’s Watching Me”? It went something like, “I always feel like, somebody’s watching me, I can’t get no privacy, ohh, ohh, ohh.” It wasn’t a creative or thought provoking song, but man it was catchy. I fully understand that feeling. It all happen when I started speaking more frequently at my local church, Destiny Metropolitan Worship Church. You see, it is what is called a mega-church with about 6,000 people in its membership. So, when you get popular in that crowd people start noticing you in the strangest places.

The first time, happened at a red light. A lady got out of her car, ran up to ours and gave us some money and said, “Thank you for the message. Breakfast is on me.” We just sat there slack jawed. Then I was at a store buying a gift for my wife and, “Hey aren’t you the wise guy.” (It was obvious they had been to a Destinations Event). Since then I have grown in the little notoriety that I have and it happens all the time. Now, I’m likely see people at my son’s school, while grocery shopping, and even in men’s rooms. It’s a bit unnerving, but I realized something. I can’t mess up. There are eyes ever looking to see if I am going to be what they have seen on stage.

This is the burden and responsibility of leadership. I can’t spur the attention because I didn’t bring it on myself, it’s God’s doing. The bible says, “Above all else, you must live in a way that brings honor to the good news about Christ.” Philippians 1:27 What if you were more visible? What would people see in your conduct? Would you make them want to love God more or less? This is the wrestle I must embrace everyday. I think more people would desire to become followers of Jesus if the people that said the represented him lived based on this scripture…Just a thought.

Waiting, Waiting, Waiting…

2010-01-27T06:49:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I am not the biggest fan of waiting. I have learned over the years the benefits of waiting, but I still don’t like it. It’s just not fun. I am in a holding pattern with the production of my first book “College Impact” J, and process is excruciating. Now, those in the publishing arena will tell you, “that’s book publishing”, but they always fail to tell you why it’s that way. My own brother is calling me saying, “where is my book.”

You see the first proof had some issues many of which were my fault. If you are a fan of my blogs you probably noticed that I have a tendency to be a little liberal with my typos. I have written about it before and there is no need to rehash it. On top of that we had to make some alterations with the cover design. The truth is, I just want the job to be done. I want the product in my hands. Now, the printer has the book and is taking what I think is their sweet time getting the second proof to me. So, again I have to wait.

You may understand what I am going through. Whether waiting for test results, a person to make up their mind, or a job opportunity waiting kicks rocks! My only confidence is that God knows what he is doing in, through, and in spite of me. So, my waiting is not in vain. It still challenges me to my core, but what is happening in my heart in the mean time is the real miracle. So, I wait. “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen you heart: wait, I say, on the LORD” Psalms 27:14…Just a thought.

Repent?

2010-01-25T03:58:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I don’t know what you think about when you hear the word repent. It has been made to sound like an aggressive word that religious people use to make the spiritually unassociated feel bad. That is not the true connotation of the word. It means to make a 180° turn in a better, more beneficial direction. It’s not a bad word, at all.

Here is the truth. No matter how bad you have messed up your life or how wrong you have been, God still loves you. His amazing grace is for you. We often see God as someone who is trying to ruin our fun. That is the furthest thing from the truth. God is the one trying to forgive your wrongs and give you a beautiful future. He loves you enough to say repent so that you can have the best life possible. Who in their right mind would reject that? But people do it everyday. I think that part of the problem is that people like me have not fully explained this word.

Yes, repent and be saved from living below what God has for you. Repent and turn from the things in your life that you know are wrong. Repent and embrace a heavenly Father who loves you. Repent and live the life you were always meant to live. Repentance is a good word for everyone. “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?” Romans 2:4…Just a thought

Politically Speaking

2010-01-22T04:51:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I usually don’t chime in on the politics of politics because it all seems like foolishness to me. So much of I scratch your back…you get the picture. I do, on the other hand, believe in standing behind issues. We recently had an interesting occurrence that grabbed the headlines from a serious matter such as Haiti. One political party was able to stop another from holding an uncontestable majority. Call me crazy, but I think that it’s a good thing.

I am not aligned with either of the major political parties. Because I am an unapologetically evangelical some would say that I am a Republican. Others would assume because of my race I would automatically be a democrat. Neither is true, and I resent the thought that I have to be one or the other. That’s just me. It does rather give me a chance to see things from a balanced perspective.

The reason I am happy for neither party to hold a super majority is that it keeps both parties honest. It forces the leading party at the time to allow push back on the ideas they are putting forth. That is how the system is supposed to work. When everyone in the room tends to think alike you have what is called “group think”. Which means it is easy to have blind spots in the pervading perspective and in the worst case scenario one party can just bully their way through bad legislation. So yes, I am happy that Massachusetts elected a republican for that fact alone.

I believe that when we see things as democrats and republicans it prohibits us from seeing things as Christians (if you are one of course). We should never be so supportive of a party that it blinds us to the issues they endorse that are in contrast to the bible. If you are in a party, fine. But have your views rooted in something greater than some party’s platform. The bible says, “But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…” Joshua 24:15 I refuse to serve a political agenda…Just a thought.

Thank you Louis and Elaine Williams

2010-01-20T06:46:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I have an infection; it’s called an 18-year-old living in my house! I am attempting to train him to be a better man then he would be on his own. Its tough! But, I am reminded of when I was 18; I had some amazing people who allowed me live with them while in college. They taught me everything from lawn care to childcare, and I was glad to learn it (most of the time). I was so overwhelmed by their generosity that there was nothing that they could have asked that would have been refused.

Now, one distinction this family had was stern discipline. The husband was amazing at barking just loud enough to inspire fear while hugging enough to evoke confidence. The wife had a way of looking at you with, the Claire Huxtable stare, except you knew she would actually take you out if needed. She was from Philly, so she could back it up. They loved me. Their love helped me be the man that I am by, helping me get into college, see a healthy family dynamic up close, and develop skills to be a successful as a Christian. It’s the template I now use to do the same thing for my nephew.

The Williams were a model for one of my favorite scriptures, “And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own?” Luke 16:12 As frustrating as it can get raising an 18-year-old, I have an awesome example before me. I hope that someday he will be able to look back and see the value we have added to his life and endeavor to do the same to another 18-year-old. I am apart of a rich legacy. What kind of legacy are you leaving? ...Just a thought

Prayer for Haiti

2010-01-18T09:28:00.000-08:00

Father, I pray for the country of Haiti. In light of the country experiencing this devastating catastrophe let your grace to cover the country. Speed help there, and give strength to those who are in need. Bring coordination of resources and people that can truly support and offer assistance. Let relief and from countries around the world be distributed quickly.

I pray that the people of the Haiti would be comforted. For those people who are still alive, let them know healing and hope in the light of who you are. Let neighbor stand with neighbor and that nation come together like never before. For those injured, supernaturally heal wounds, where no doctor is present. Where families are separated allow connections to be made and information to be disseminated quickly. Allow supplies to get to those who are in the most need.

Where people have looked down on Haiti now cause Haiti to rise as a jewel here in the west. Allow that government to stand with and for the people of that country and be true servants. Please let all of the money donated be used for its desired use.

I pray that churches would prove their worth during this time. Let those who can’t get to Haiti pray like crazy for that nation. Where we have allocated resources to frivolous things, inspire them to allocate it to the least of these in this desperate time. Teach your church to once again love mercy, deal justly, and walk humbly with you God. In Jesus Name.

Your Help is Needed!

2010-01-15T03:48:00.000-08:00

As we spread the word about College Impact:Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence we are asking that you help us. You can help by going to Damian's facebook page and tagging yourself in the College Impact Trailer video. By doing so you will increase the amount of people that are aware of this life changing book by Damian L. Boyd. You can also help by letting every college student and person that serves them know about the book as well. Thank you for being apart of the movement.

Stay in Your Lane

2010-01-13T10:30:00.000-08:00

Think on this…while working on my upcoming book College Impact (okay that was a shameless plug, but follow me it gets better J) We did as much as we possibly could on our own. My wife and I put in countless hours trying to cross every “t” and dot every “I”. We eventually came to a place where we just couldn’t do anymore. Not that we didn’t try but when you get your hard work sent back 8+ times you begin to get the hint. There are some things that you just can’t and shouldn’t do.

Now, I grew up with a great sense of the “I can’t(s)” There were actually many things that I could do, but told myself I couldn’t. My wife comes from a family where their mantra was, “Why pay somebody else, I can do it myself.” So, we took on this challenge with that mindset. Every time we sent in another draft something was wrong. We eventually had to admit defeat. It was very clear WE WERE NOT ABLE TO DO IT. We had to get a professional. We discovered that there was a reason people got paid to do what we were screwing up.

Here is the truth; you can’t do everything. No matter how gifted you are there are some things in which you will need to let someone else do. That is how God designed us. The bible says, “Once the commitment is clear, you do what you can, not what you can't.” I Corinthians 8:11 You could save a lot of time and money by staying in your lane. Do what you can do, and let someone else do the rest…Just a thought.

Passion

2010-01-11T05:02:00.001-08:00

Think on this…passion is defined as the degree of difficulty in which you are willing to endure to accomplish a desired goal. I have been passionate about a lot of things in my life like women, clothes, affirmation, and acceptance. I have pursued them all hard at different points in my life. The interesting thing is after acquiring them I was still left with the sinking in my gut that said they were not truly enough. None satisfied.

What was crazy about those desires is that for a while I was consumed by them. I would get up in the morning thinking about them and I talked about them excessively. They literally drove my very actions. You would think that the payoff would be more fulfilling. What I learned is that no matter what the goal if its essence is too small, then you will have wasted your fervor. And life is too short to waste any time and focus.

I want my life to matter for that, which matters most. I have spent too many years chasing after fleeting passions that would never have an appropriate payoff. Our hearts were made to go after things that would be pleasurable, of that I am convinced. The reality is God alone can satiate the thirsty soul. “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” John 7:37 Now that is something worthy of your passion. The question is how bad do you want it…Just a thought.

Daddy’s Boy…Pure delight!

2010-01-08T07:17:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I love my son. He lights up when I enter a room. He is without a doubt a daddy’s boy. That is in direct contrast to me, a momma’s boy. I didn’t have a choice my mom was all I had. It sets up an interesting scenario now that I have an opportunity to learn about how I should approach God as a Father. Jesus said, "This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name” Matt 6:9 The best way we could understand a relationship with God is as a father. That is mind blowing, one that we could know God, two that he wanted to be known as a father.

You see my son delights in his daddy. For some reason he can’t get enough of me. My wife uses it to her advantage, she loves saying, “He wants you”. He doesn’t care about my absences, he is just happy when I arrive. It’s his joy just to be with me. Even when I am mad at him he is most upset at the fact that he hurt the one person he loves most. In that moment all he wants is to be back in daddy’s good graces. Because he loves me so much I delight in being his father and there is nothing good from him I would withhold.

I am learning to approach God with the same passion which my son applies to me. Since, I didn’t have a father I am prone to look at God as one who would not truly care or be interested in me. Much like my own father. But, God is a perfect father. Even my son’s father will let him down at some point, I'm human. I want to long for God the way my son longs for me. When I am satisfied in Him, He is made great in me. Even when I am bad, I want to get it right because I don’t want to hurt the one whom I love most. Just sitting with him, should make my heart leap. My son is teaching me to be a daddy’s boy…Just a thought.

The Exchange

2010-01-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

Think on this...sometimes we look at the whole “Christian” thing incorrectly. We see God as a bully who wants to steal our lunch and ruin our fun. That couldn’t be further from the truth! I think we would be less reluctant to embrace what we have been offered from a God who loves us, if we saw things from the proper perspective. It’s more about an exchange, of the really small and insignificant for the huge and incredibly important in your life.

For instance, I grew up poor. A babysitter abused me. I have been in a gang. I felt less than important. My grades were horrible. That was my small and insignificant. You can see why I would trade that for something larger. But, your story may be, of middle to upper class roots. You may have had a loving, supportive and healthy home environment. You may never have been in a fight in your whole life. You may have never even seen anything lower than a B-. I would tell you that you still need an exchange. Why, because God has so much more for you then you could ever imagine.

The bible says, “A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” John 10:10 God is not trying to ruin your fun He is trying to give you more than fun, that is, REAL LIFE. Whether down and out, or up and out, He loves you and is trying to rescue you from settling for the small, which seems big at the moment. He wants to give you the something so large that you can’t live it all in this lifetime. That is so amazing!...Just a thought.

The Gathering

2010-01-01T06:00:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I have been to many gatherings and for many reasons. There has been hundreds of sporting events, and family times alike. Rare is the moment when I have been in an environment where my life has truly been changed. Tomorrow I will be in such a place. I will be apart of a gathering called Passion. It is the largest gathering of young adults around the world. It’s a movement really. So for today and Monday I will not be doing blog. I leave you with the scripture that I we will be centering on. "Yes, Lord, walking in the way of Your Truth, we wait eagerly for You, for Your name and Your renown are the desire of our souls." Isaiah 26:8 I should be back on Wednesday…Just a thought.

Resolution?!

2009-12-30T09:35:00.000-08:00

Think on this…its comical to me how people make New Year’s resolutions. They desire to loose weight, workout more, and be better human beings. Now, you may be thinking, "what’s wrong with that"? Nothing, but the issue is, most people break those resolutions within the first few days of the year. How about we approach this new century a new way? Let’s stop making resolutions and start asking God to both guide and lead us into the better future He already has for us.

My wife and I have discovered that when we commit our plans into the Lord’s hands things work better than we could ever anticipate. While going over our 2009 prayer requests, we discovered that God had done almost everything we prayed. The challenge for many is they don’t believe that God would hear their prayer, or they don’t like depending on anyone else including God to get things done. I am convinced that I can’t do anything good unless He helps me. But that’s just me.

God loves you, and He has so much more for you than you could imagine. “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 God has a plan we just have to follow. He knows how to lead us toward better health, a better life, and a more glorious future. Follow Him and your future is resolved! ... Just a thought.

May Christmas Never End

2009-12-28T12:02:00.000-08:00

Think on this…some people can’t stand the hoopla around Christmas. It has a lot to do with the commercialism and the shallow things attributed with the day. I understand that. I have a solution; let Christmas day, be everyday. I think there is merit to the frustration people feel over the December 25^th push. What would it look like if we carried the true spirit of Christmas everyday?

I think it would be amazing if the warm feelings persisted all the time. How wonderful would it be to see smiles in March? What if the people you loved looked for opportunities to make you feel special in June? How wonderful would it be to have families coming together in August? Then they would tell their relatives how much the loved them, and make sure that no good thing went unsaid. Awesome.

What I am learning is, that is the way God wanted things to be. That is the way people who are overwhelmed by the fact that heaven came to earth are supposed live and interact. “And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:12-14 When we get a glimpse of that miracle we might live everyday like it was Christmas…Just a thought.

2009-12-24T21:16:00.000-08:00

Think on this..."The birth of Jesus took place like this. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. Before they came to the marriage bed, Joseph discovered she was pregnant. (It was by the Holy Spirit, but he didn't know that.) Joseph, chagrined but noble, determined to take care of things quietly so Mary would not be disgraced.

While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God's angel spoke in the dream: "Joseph, son of David, don't hesitate to get married. Mary's pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God's Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—'God saves'—because he will save his people from their sins." This would bring the prophet's embryonic sermon to full term:

Watch for this—a virgin will get pregnant and bear a son;
They will name him Immanuel (Hebrew for "God is with us").

Then Joseph woke up. He did exactly what God's angel commanded in the dream: He married Mary. But he did not consummate the marriage until she had the baby. He named the baby Jesus." Matt 1:18-25 ...Just a thought.

Worst – Best Christmas Ever

2009-12-23T07:04:00.001-08:00

Think on this…when I was a child Christmas was a big deal. We were poor so my mom would often get help from local charities to supply us with more toys than a kid in the projects should have. It was wonderful. It was all preceded by my hometown’s big Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony. The entire main street was lit up beautifully. It set such high expectations for the season.

As was our custom we moved a lot. We not only moved to most dangerous city in New Jersey, but also the country, Camden. This is where I was exposed to gang violence, guns, and gambling. That Christmas we had nothing, and I mean nothing! No food, no tree, no nothing. I got a “hi” for Christmas, and that was that. It was depressing, to say the least, for my little sister and me. I didn’t have the true meaning of Christmas (the story of Jesus) to give me hope, so long faces were abundant.

Then about mid afternoon there was a knock at the door. My older sister and brother entered. We had not seen them for a while; so our spirits were up. They also had presents with them, and the tone of the day turned on a dime. My older sister, who was in high school, spent almost all of her money buying us gifts, anticipating our lack. My brother and I went to the local Chinese store to purchase fried chicken and fries for dinner. Why are Chinese store always open? Never mind. The point was they came, and they were Christmas!

As I am listening to my wife read the Christmas story from the Bible with our Godson, I am taken back to my worst-best Christmas. We decided that he would not have to go through what I went through, as he is also the child of a single mother. We can give gifts, and he has been given plenty, but we want to be the gift. I challenge you to follow the example of my older sister and brother, the example I now follow; it’s the example of Jesus. BE THE GIFT. “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christthe Lord.” Luke 2:11 …Just a thought.

Beginning to look at lot like Christmas

2009-12-21T05:09:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I love Christmas. I know for many it is just another day, but you must admit, people are often nicer and more compassionate around this time. Well, not if you are in the middle of the shopping frenzy. My point is that this should be a special time in which we remember the greatest gift the world has ever known, and that is the birth of Jesus. Once you look past the overwhelming commercialism you might just see what is so special about this season.

I do understand that Jesus was most likely not born in December. I also grasp the fact that traditions like a Christmas tree, and a Yule log are rooted in pagan rituals. Don’t get me started on the whole Santa Clause mythology; all these things make it hard to see power and the worth of the holiday. Then you have countless people going into debt to buy gifts that will totally forgotten by the next Christmas. Do you recall the Christmas shopping season starting after Thanksgiving? All of a sudden Christmas starts the day after Halloween, it all seems to be about the money. Looking at what this holiday has become, makes me sad.

What is Christmas supposed to be? It’s supposed to be a day in which we remember that when we were without hope, God did for us what we could not do for ourselves. Jesus came to the earth to rescue us from our impending doom. So, Almighty God, identified with our human condition. We didn’t have a God who watched us from afar, but one who understood what we were going through and cared enough to do something about it. "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" —which means, "God with us." Matt 1:23

That is Christmas. That is a reason to celebrate. We are celebrating God’s love, not store discounts, red-nosed reindeer, of jolly snowmen. Jesus is the reason for the season. Of all my non-Christian friends I have not met one person who thinks that Jesus’ birth and life was a bad thing. So, his birth should be celebrated! I am sorry that people would make you think the holiday was about anything other then that… Just a thought.

Avatar

2009-12-18T04:04:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I went to a see the movie AVATAR and it was the best movie I have seen in a really long time. (No spoilers here). I left the movie wanting to stay in that world painted by the creators. The concept of an avatar is intriguing as a Christian. The principle is, although your body is in one world, your true self is in another. The avatar is another representation of you that exists in a new reality. I know it is a bit out there, but due to the emergence of online virtual worlds the idea of an avatar is quite common.

As a Christian this rings true. How? The bible says, “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 As comfortable as I have become in this world, its not my ultimate reality. I have a spirit that lives in this body that is tied to this world. In essence what you see is my avatar. That is why I am constantly fighting against these desires in me that long for the unhealthy yearnings that this life provides. The real me longs to live in the wide-open spaces with God. The more we remember that the more victory we will see in our lives…Just a thought.

Tired Yet Determined

2009-12-16T05:55:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I have been investing a heavy amount of time, energy, and money into finishing my book, College Impact: Empowering Collegiate Christians for Campus Influence. I am so tired. I am wired to knock things out fast, because my attention span is not the longest. Processes that take a long time to complete wear me out. Now, I know that this is a journey that God has me on, so what do I do in the mean time?

I work, I stand, I continue, I endure! I have learn that sometimes God allows life to hits you with exactly what you need to not only help you grow, but to see your own resolve and commitment. Sometimes you can’t and won’t be able to stop while working through issues and/or circumstances. Your responsibility is to not quit. That is the lesson I am learning at a whole other level and I share it with you. Don’t give up because you are tired, frustrated, and ready to quit. If it’s worth it, then fight for it. “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:24 …Just a thought.

News Worthy?

2009-12-14T04:12:00.000-08:00

Think on this… I miss the good old days when the top news story was of a shooting, stabbing, major fire, etc. Now to gain headlines all you need is to have cheated on your spouse, dated someone who dated someone famous, or “accidentally” shown your genitals. All these things have somehow become news worthy.

Now, some would blame the media, because they control the content. But, as a former employee of a national news agency, I don’t think they are to hold the bulk of the blame. They are in the business of sharing content that grabs your attention long enough to show advertisements. The more people they can get to watch their network the more money sponsors pay. It’s we the viewer who drive what’s important to the broadcaster. If we want to see nipple slips, then they are sadly way too happy to oblige us.

Yes, there used to be standards and practices that kept news people’s feet to the proverbial fire, but those rules shift with our standards. I think we should look to our thirst for meaningless content before we lob arrows at the media. Then and only then we will be able to keep them in check. The bible says, “What sorrow for those who say that evil is good and good is evil, that dark is light and light is dark, that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter.” Isaiah 5:20 We have lost our sense of what is right and important. We should require more from ourselves first… Just a thought.

Unemployment Lessons

2009-12-11T06:48:00.001-08:00

Think on this…I have been talking to many people that are either unemployed, nervous about losing a job, or are wrestling with financial stresses. As an unemployed person, I have learned a lot about myself and the whole emotional struggle people go through in the process. The reality is that we as a country are having a difficult time economically. It affects everyone. I have friends that are upper middle class and higher and even they are living much leaner than before. The moral of the story is that you are not alone in the struggle.

Now, as a “preacher” or “minister” how am I supposed to guide people in this tough season of life, when I myself am in the same situation? First, I don’t put that pressure on myself. Second, I have learned that God does not sit by and watch us suffer. He is at work in the midst. As a Christian, I have learn to trust Him with my every need. While trusting, I am to do what I can do.

That means that I can write, work on blogs, encourage others, and learn new skill sets. There is always something that we can do as individuals. Then, we present what we can do, and God does what we can’t do. I love that. So many people are asking God to do what they can do, and why would He need to do what he has gifted us to do. Here is the principle, “Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.” God wants us to exercise our faith by taking the steps we know to take and trusting him with the rest…Just a thought.

Tiger Woods

2009-12-09T05:05:00.001-08:00

Think on this…everybody is talking about Tiger Woods, some would argue for good reason. Okay, so another privileged athlete tries to get away with cheating on his wife and kids (when you cheat on a wife you cheat on the kids, don’t get it twisted). Haven’t we heard this story before? Why are we so shocked? So disappointed? Aren’t these people doing exactly what we as society want them to do?

You see, we love to deify athletes and celebrities. They are the glamorous beings with which we can’t get enough. Due to the TMZs of the world, we must know every time they get onto or off of a plane, go to a public bathroom, or throw trash away. This creates a “them and us” mentality that gives them license to be or at least feel they are above the law. Then when they don’t live up to our high standards for them we demonize them, it’s the cycle that repeats. It’s so bad that celebrities can’t even go to most churches because star-struck pastors are asking them to “share something “ with the people. That is the saddest of all.

What do we do then? I think we need to no longer participate in the paparazzi driven media. Let these people live like humans instead of gods. Maybe they won’t feel the sense of entitlement that empowers this bad behavior. If someone should falter, we should have some compassion because, but by the grace of God, we would be in the same situation. Then we can let the family work through the tough issue in private instead of the court of public opinion. The whole situation is bad, but for the sake of his children, maybe we should let them work this out.

I have much compassion because the Bible says, “Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.”…Just a thought.

Down with OPP

2009-12-07T03:49:00.001-08:00

Think on this…Those who are into hip-hop from the 90's will remember the song, "OPP" from a group called Naughty by Nature. The song was vulgar in its suggestion as the trio's name suggests, but they had thousand yelling their anthem. I have a different approach for the acronym, O-Other P-People's P-Perspective. I can be so committed to “my vision” and “my way” of accomplishing that vision that I can actually kill it. There are people whose job is to help me. To that degree their perspective is as valuable as mine.

I challenge you to allow someone new to push on the “vision” God has given you. God brings the right people at the right time to accomplish His purpose within you. Those additional voices can sometimes come from the most unsuspecting places. "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." Proverb 11:14 If you always have to be the smartest person in the room that is a problem…Just a thought.

It’s simple, LIVE YOUR DREAM!

2009-12-04T04:26:00.001-08:00

Think on this…if you have been following my blogs you probably have seen the recurring theme of becoming who you are suppose to be in spite of your past. That is my story. Even now while unemployed, I am still pushing toward the dreams God has given me. I am have finished my book, created a website, signed a contract with a publisher, produced a trailer for the book, and am on the brink of the books release. I have been hustling. I have to do my little part so God can have something to bless. Please, live your dream. Life’s too short not to. “The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.”1 Thessalonians 5:24 I hope my life encourages you to trust God and take a chance. Please visit www.damianlboyd.com …Just a thought.

Holding you Down

2009-12-02T06:46:00.001-08:00

Think on this…it goes without saying that there are some people with whom you need around you, to keep your sanity. To say it in the current vernacular these people “hold you down.” For some it’s their parents and for others it’s good friends. There is nothing sadder then witnessing relationships that are vital to an individual’s mental health deteriorate. Whether through anger, bitterness, misunderstanding, or intentional injury these separations happen every day. To the detriment of both parties involved.

For me, it’s my wife who “holds me down.” She is my sounding board when all else is unclear. I honestly don’t know what I would do without her. But some times she bugs me J (love you baby, she reads my blogs). We don’t always flow as smoothly as I wish we would. On occasion we hurt each other, but to the degree that I excommunicate her from my life, is to the degree I will fail. Why? Because she is there to “hold me down!” I can’t allow petty things to get in the way of my own success or her success for that matter.

If we knew the damage we cause ourselves by allowing our relationships to wither we would think twice. “Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody.” Romans 12:17-18 Yes, some people are toxic, but many more are simply flawed and in need of our forgiveness. Why? For our own sake and theirs…Just a thought.

Fighting Words

2009-11-29T19:08:00.001-08:00

Think on this...Words are powerful. We need only look at some  parents/child interactions and see name calling, completely wreck a  child's self esteem and confidence. Your ugly, stupid, etc are some  favorites. Sticks and stones may break your bones, and words can kill you...fighting words! Is it possible that you may have received or  delivered words that destroy?  

If I am honest, I have been damaged by many words (and have dished them  out too). I was told that I was dumb, and would not amount to anything.  It took many years to get over that. I didn't believe I was smart until  I was in the 10th grade. How crazy is that? When you look at my life to  that point, it made sense. I had bad grades almost all my life (until  college). I had no real aspirations. It was sad. I became the sum total  of what had been spoken over me. I was told that I would probably end up  like others in my family. Drugs and jail were on my horizon, and I was  on my way there.  

It wasn't until I had become a Christian that I could even begin to  believe that I was made for greatness. I still have to remind myself of  that now. WORDS ARE POWERFUL! I want to encourage you to continually  speak words of affirmation and life to those around you. Tell people who  you believe they can be, and not just what they have become. Who knows,  your words may be the ones that cause them to believe in themselves.  Make your words count! "The tongue has the power of life and death..." Prov. 18:21 Just a thought.

Windows

2009-11-27T05:46:00.000-08:00

Think on this… We often have many choices to make in a given day. Some are simple like, what should I wear, eat, which smell good to splash on. But, often we miss the more challenging opportunities around us. It's in the simplicity of our day that we miss chances to show steady, honest, character. These are the chances to share a kind word to someone having a rough day, allowing someone to go ahead of you in traffic, or by simply doing a great job. These are all windows of opportunity.

People forget that God is always watching. The good, bad, and ugly are ever before His eyes. He is always opening windows of opportunities for us to exemplify His character before people who need to see Him in us. How many windows do we miss in a day, truly how many? We do this by refusing to forgive someone even though God always forgives us, or by holding on to a horrible attitude. The bible says we are to, “Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everybody." 2 Peter 1:5-7 How amazing would your life be if you lived like that…Just a thought.

A Different Kind of Gratitude (inspired by m. celita lewis)

2009-11-25T08:19:00.000-08:00

Think on this…we are often grateful for the good things in our lives, but what about the bad. Have you ever thanked God for the things that you wished hadn’t happened in your life because of what they produced in you? That is a hard thing.

For me it looks like; thank you God that my father abandoned me shortly after my birth. Thank you for the abuse my family suffered from a crazy man. Thank you for the woman that sexually abused me. Thank you for growing up poor. Thank you for the gang of which I used to be apart. Thank you for those friends and loved ones who have died prematurely. Thank you for all the people who have called me names, put me down, and said I would amount to nothing. Thank you for a child with special needs. For all this, I say thank you, in Jesus name Amen. Does that sound spiritual?

You see my hard childhood produced a resiliency in me that I may not have had otherwise. Every death reminded me that my life would not last forever, and it showed me that I needed to live for what matters most. The people who have spoken against me allowed me to develop tenacity that I didn’t have previously. Having a son with disabilities gave me more compassion for those for whom others overlook. The bible says… “But we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4 I thank God for my journey, good, bad, and ugly...Just a thought.

Thank you

2009-11-23T04:14:00.000-08:00

Think on this…it’s Thanksgiving week in the United States. This is a holiday that has its roots in early America where the native born people taught the European settlers how to utilize the local resources. The settlers in response gave thanks for what they were given and what they had learned. I have conflicted feelings about the roots of the holiday due to the abuse of the settlers toward the Native American’s which was right on the heels of this benevolent act. It seems to me if you are truly thankful you don’t steal land and almost wipe out the indigenousness population. That’s just me.

I do like the holiday for another reason. It simply reminds us to be thankful for what we have. Thankfulness is something I can sink my teeth into. We can be so focused on what we don’t have that we can miss the blessings around us. If you don’t have a job, be thankful for unemployment checks. If you aren’t married, be thankful you’re your friendships. If you have one leg, be thankful for the other one. If you are jobless, unmarried, and legless you still have breath in your body. Remember that things could always be worse. “Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them.” Psalm 107:21. As an exercise of thankfulness; respond by writing a list of the things for which you are thankful. Start with; you are still breathing…Just a thought.

Editing

2009-11-20T03:53:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I had an interaction with my sister that caused me to think about these blogs. Her exact words were, “Do you or does someone proof read your blogs?” Basically, she was saying I have too many typos or grammatical errors. If you are in agreement with her I apologize J, I will try to do better. She tried to spare my feelings by telling me how she just picks up on these things and it wasn’t so much my writing as it was her inability to withhold her critiques. So yes, I kick rocks. I love it; family keeps you honest and humble.

I think that is how we live our lives. We are so focused on trying to project perfection to those reading our lives, that we leave little room for mistakes. The challenge is we rarely see what we don’t see. We grow accustomed to the regular mistakes we make. I think these areas, like my sister, keep us honest. Not that you shouldn't present your best, but try embrace the fact that you are prone to get things wrong in some areas.

So, if you see a grammatical error going forward, I’m working on it. If you should happen to see a flaw in my character I am doing the same, it may take some time, so please be patient with me. The bible says, “You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all 2 Corinthians 3:2. I desire to be a compelling read...Just a thought.

Boogers taste good!

2009-11-18T10:34:00.001-08:00

Think on this...I have school age son. It’s cold and flu season and the kids in his school are ripe with runny noses, and congestion. On any given day you can see some kindergartener with a dried, crusty, force field of snot caked to his/her face. The crazy thing is for some reason they are oblivious to how gross they look with this disgusting patch on their face. Inevitably, a small worm like finger will go digging for gold! Once the sought after treasure is obtained it goes right in the mouth. Umm! I have come to one conclusion; boogers taste good. They are a little salty, and little creamy. Okay, who has not eaten a booger? You used to be one of those gross little booger-eating machines too. Don't judge me.

As adults the pattern persists. We consume unhealthy things just because they are there. No matter what our vice, we are prone to hold tight to unseemly habits. I love that God patiently works with us to help us be who he wants us to be. The bible says, “he wants to keep us from falling and present us faultless before His presence with great joy.” Jude 24 It’s our one responsibility to decide that we want to be freed from our nasty habits…Just a thought.

I'm a mess (the truth about DaWiseOne)

2009-11-16T04:47:00.000-08:00

Think on this...Believe it or not I am a mess. A pure mess! I love to say that I love God, but do I really? (Before you think, I am just another preacher losing his nerve and quitting, read on.) Jesus said, "If you love me obey my commands." John14:21 I don't always obey. I like to think that I do, but to be honest I don't all the time. At times I find other things more pleasing, more alluring, and in my mind just better. Or (this is the kicker) I come up with excuses for why I can’t obey him and try to act like I am mature enough to “test the waters”. Basically, that means I love things more than God (in that moment at least). Like I said, I am a mess.

Is this too much reality for a communicator of God's word to reveal? Maybe it is, or maybe we are human and have to find God's forgiveness and grace like everyone else. We have struggles and things we have to overcome. Not that we should not be held to a high standard (we should), but why do we set such high standards for ministers, we all have the bible as our standard. Yes, positioned leaders should meet certain qualifications, and I do.

My point is, I have to fight for a pure heart. God gave me a clean heart at salvation but I can allow habits, history, and hazardous living to get it dirty again. I have to make sure that I regularly keep Jesus as my source to ensure that I am not following my base nature. That is my challenge, and I present that to you…Just a thought

Exposed

2009-11-13T14:07:00.000-08:00

Think on this…Ever been naked? Not as in, I was in the shower this morning and I didn't have clothes on. Really exposed, like before someone with whom you don’t want to see you naked? It's a humbling experience. No matter how nice you think you look underneath your clothes it's humbling! The bottom line is we are taught to keep our privates' private. We generally don't want people to see what we have been spending most of our lives hiding. Then we start to ask them, "So what did you see", the answer, "everything". Then the insecurity and healthy shame steps in. It's just a rough situation.

The truth of the matter is many of us are exposed and we don't even know it. Not by some peeping tom, but by almighty God. He sees all perfectly. Everything is exposed before him. The crazy thing is we will often be afraid to do before others what we do before God. I think its because we either forget that He is watching, or He seems so far away that we rarely feel exposed. God is always looking beneath the surface to our very core. He knows what you and I did last summer. The Bible says, "Oh Lord, you have searched me and you know me" Psalm 139:1. The crazy thing is, he sees us and still loves us in spite of the ugly. I am so grateful for that…Just a thought.

Self-Destruction

2009-11-11T04:12:00.000-08:00

Think on this…do you remember that song? The biggest names in hip-hop coming together (circa 1989) to, "stop the violence and kick the science." This was back before women were throwing themselves at Flava Flav on reality shows. The whole goal was to stop people from killing themselves. It's so relevant to our lives because, often we are the masters of our own demise. We keep very unhealthy habits that add to our own destruction. We keep going around the same mountains and expecting that things will change because we occasionally see new scenery.

The bible says, "As a dog eats its own vomit, so fools recycle silliness." (Proverbs 26:11) Can you imagine eating you own…? I will go on. But it's nasty and gets you nowhere. We have to admit our negative cycles, and realize that we can get out if we ask for help. If you could have gotten yourself out you would have by now. That's the hardest part for many of us, admitting that we need help. The good news is, God wants us to live free. All you have to do is ask for it. "Or else it's, self destruction, you're headed for self destruction…Just a thought.

Gravity- Inspired by John Mayer

2009-11-09T05:50:00.000-08:00

Think on this…to be honest I am not a John Mayer fan. I am not an anti-Mayer, I am just not an avid listener, but this song grabs me. "Gravity is working against me…I'll never know what makes this man, with all the love that his heart can stand, dream of ways to throw it all away”. This rings true for me and I imagine for you as well. It's all about our struggle with depravity. It doesn’t help anyone to pretend that we don’t have self-destructive tendencies. We all have those feelings, deal with it.

The bible says, "I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out…Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it." Romans 7:18-20. I am ever mindful of my weakness and desire to abandon everything that I hold dear. Is it because I am just a bad Christian? I don't think so. I have learn to be ever mindful of my challenges so that I know what enemies I am facing. If I am blind to my own temptations how do I overcome them?

So what do we do? John Mayer had the right solution. “Keep me where the light is.” That is what we need, to be where God’s light is. I am not perfect, but I know who is, and I want to stay in His light as to not embrace my own darkness…Just a thought.

Sick and Shut-in

2009-11-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

Think on this…when I was a child in church I heard a common phrase, Sick and Shut-in. The church used these terms to speak of those who were infirmed and needed either prayer or comfort. I lived with my sister’s grandmother for years and she was on the Sick and Shut-in list. We regularly watched as deacons from the large local church visited. It was amazing really, the loved they showed for this elderly woman. I think about the fact that she had us there and didn’t go without a constant touch from someone. There were so many others who never saw another face, or felt the warmth from another person’s affection.

I understand the concept more fully as I have been wrestling with the flu this week. I have been in quarantine in my bed for days now and I am getting a little stir crazy. I get the need for my exile, but I miss human contact. I feel Sick and Shut-in. It’s the flu so I will get over it, but there are others who never get that connection. This year I started delivering food to the elderly and those with HIV and AIDS, and now I really see why they need that service. That simple act shows love in ways that I am only now discovering.

Jesus taught, “When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Show love this weekend…Just a thought.

Imagery

2009-11-04T06:25:00.000-08:00

Think on this… I like television. I know, once again the ultra spiritual will think that I am being sacrilegious. I grew up on the television, and it was an important part of my upbringing. It was a way we learned about the world. There are some terrible things on TV, make no mistake about it. But, the awe and wonder, of Transformers, GI Joe, and thunder, Thunder, THUNDER CATS HOOO! Yes! As a child it was the greatest thing ever. Conversely, It was also the instrument through which I discovered naked women, way too early. Wow, that was an eye opener. But, once again, wonder! (But let’s move on J)

I think the TV is just a tool, for good or bad it’s a tool. I am an ex television network employee. I get it. Television can give you a glimpse of what is possible, and even show you the impossible. It’s amazing imagery, things that were once only in our minds eye is before us. For this reason, I realize more and more that I have to be careful with what I allow to hit my eyes because it affects my heart. Those early years were good, but when the naked women came in it messed me up. It determined how I saw women in general, which was not healthy. The bible says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Psalms 4:23 Your heart is where your affections and your desires are, it the place from where you live and emote. We can't allow HBO, Cinemax, and MTV to determine our desires. You can guard your heart, by guarding what you watch on television…Just a thought.

Goodness Gracious

2009-11-02T03:39:00.000-08:00

Think on this…I am a part of a unique people. The African American people are special in one major way. Hardship? No, people all over the world experience that. Oppression? No, the Native Americans were robbed of their land and almost wiped out, and blacks in South Africa experienced apartheid. We are special in that we have been bred, yes bred like horses or dogs. We have been bred to work. When master wasn’t chasing the slave women around to create little mixed race babies he was matching up slaves for their best genes. My ancestors had it rough. Please don’t tune out because I mentioned slavery, it happened, deal with it. The point is we were bred for work. I believe that is why we see so many black Americans thriving at athletics where being bigger, stronger, and faster is at a premium. Good breeding.

This is a particular problem when it comes to embracing God’s grace. Grace is a church term that means, God decided to rescue us from the penalty that our sins (faults) demanded. You can’t earn grace. Many people look at God as a mean personality, but I see love perfected. Why? Because he could have let us try to repay a debt that could never have been paid, but instead he paid it, himself. That is what the cross is about. God is trying to give us what we need, ultimately. He loves us. As an African American who was bred to work, I have a hard time with grace because I have an internal tendency to try and work my way to heaven. “Let me do more, and I just need to”, are common phrases for me. I’m a worker bee. But, grace says, just take the gift.

This truth is wrecking my “worker” mentality. I can’t, but God did. I am learning to rest and embrace the grace of God. It’s weird, but so liberating. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men and women.” Titus 2:11 We don’t have to work to earn anything from God, all we have to do is receive it. That’s so awesome!...Just a thought.