Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Dear Christians: It's Okay to Admit You're Hurting

"You'll pull through this."

"Just tough up, it'll work out."

"Don't lose faith, trust God."

Have you ever been told something along these lines? Have you ever truly struggled with something that shook your heart and threatened to shatter your faith? Have you ever felt like your hope has been locked in a cage in your soul and someone threw away the key?

I'm willing to guess that you have, because I, for one, entirely understand the struggle. Everyone has been hurt, many damaged, and some have believed they are beyond saving. It is easy to look at such people and not imagine that they are Bible-believing Christians.

But, wait, Christians aren't supposed to struggle, right? Aren't we supposed to be living in faith, steadfastly firm in our convictions with God's fire in our hearts? How could we, the Body of Christ, ever have hurting soldiers in our ranks? Friends, I can tell you that unfortunately, that is the case. I know many people who truly love God and seek His face, and yet still struggle in their lives. However, should this really come as a shock?

Ephesians 6:12 says, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."

Sounds to me like we've got a bigger battle then the spat with our next-door neighbors. As Christians, we are not promised an easy life. Nowhere in the Bible does it state that we are commissioned to live cushy lives far away from any confrontation or uncomfortable circumstance. In fact, we are told in the Word that such a situation should be seen as unsurprising.

This is laid out clearly in 1 Peter 4:12, "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing has happened to you;"

Trials WILL come. Difficulty WILL arise. Life will ALWAYS throw a curve-ball at you, and I guarantee that your first response will most likely be to panic and freak out. It's easy to look at the mountain and be overwhelmed by its height. Trust me, I know. I've been in situations where the mountains seem so impossibly tall that speaking to it is the last thing little me would ever consider. Nonetheless, we are told to command it to cast itself into the sea. No, it's not easy, but the life of the Christian was never promised to travel the easy road. We were promised the meaningful one, a road of sacrifice, trials, and unknowns.

In fact, we are told to rejoice. The next verse in 1 Peter 4 states, "But rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."

It's okay to admit that you're hurting, that doesn't make you any less strong. When hope is failing, THAT is the time to grab hold of your faith with both hands and refuse to let go. No matter how hard it is to hold on, or even how much you might want to let go, remember Who is with you. If God is for you, who can REALLY stand against you? No-one, and I can tell you from personal experience that this is true. As Christians, we aren't called to struggle in the mighty gale, the winds whipping us to and fro, tearing us apart and rending us useless. No, we are called to fly ABOVE the storm, in the light of the sun.

Sometimes the darkness of the storm can hinder our vision of the light, but we must remember that the light dwells within us, and can never be extinguished. The fire in our veins is not controlled by emotional whims or a torrential downpour of discouragement, though it may try. Despite the storm, God is ALWAYS true and never will abandon us. If you trust Him, I promise you won't regret it. And in order to do so, you must do something that I still am yet trying to learn. You must stop fighting, and allow Him to rescue you. No matter how far you've fallen, how seemingly hopeless you've become...don't lose heart. No matter the trial, if you allow Him, God will take your ashes of brokenness and turn them into pure, clean snow.

New Poem: "Defiance"


This poem is dedicated to my best friend, a true steadfast warrior, and the wind beneath my wings. 

Here's to the hopeless,
A cry for the forgotten,
The lost, and the broken.

I pray to God you learn
That your purpose
Is far more then worthless.

It hasn't been stolen.

It's hard to find the light,
When you're searching in all the wrong places.
How can you stand in the fight,
Still wearing your braces?

Crippled by doubts,
Plagued with fears,
Worries too much to count...

Is it too close to call?
Or is the fight already over?
Will you get back up?

Or have you laid down your sword?

The greater the victory,
The higher the cost.
If your heart is still beating,

Have you truly lost?

Triumph is a choice,
Likewise is defeat.
My dear, without faith...

How can hope raise a voice?

You say I'm the fire,
And you, in my shadow.
But can an eagle fly without wind?

Every flame needs oxygen to grow.

Stand firm, brave one,
Don't bow to the waves, stay strong.
And when it all is said and done,

You'll realize you had the courage all along. 

Sunday, March 26, 2017

Tale (Not So) Old as (Modern) Time

Few films I have seen this year have left me with as many mixed emotions as Disney's live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast. Even if the controversy swirling among Christian circles had never occurred, I'm fairly certain I would have left the theater feeling exactly the same. However, because the controversy did take place and posed very real concerns, I went into the film with my guard warily raised, for after what I heard, how could I not?  

First and foremost, I want to state that my intention is not to simply bash the film. As with most movies, there were indeed some parts that I found incredibly impressive, in particular the "be our guest" sequence, which was breathtakingly gorgeous in cinematography and scope. However, I cannot say that it was an excellent film as a whole. 

I won't lie, as soon as the movie began, and the first notes of the swirling score played, I felt a rush of nostalgia as childhood memories of the original animated film hearkened to mind. Due to the original being a particular favorite of mine, it was truly wonderful as the scenes unfolded quite similarly. The introduction of new story material provided more meat to the story's bones, which I found encouraging. Right from the beginning, I was given the impression that I was in for a visual feast, and the worries I had previously held almost faded away. 

Almost. After a few hiccups and blunders in the plot, I began to see a common vein in the story, a vein that was honestly frustrating. As a fantasy author, I completely understand the need to expand stories to give them many layers of complexity and intrigue. I myself have the desire to tell an original tale with as much creativity as I can muster, and I also entirely relate with the great struggle it can be to succeed. The film was audacious in their method, but ultimately failed in its scope. I was given the impression that the creators were almost self-conscious about the additions to the plot, and felt as if they had to drive the intended point home several times. Because of this, plot holes deepened, possible connections were lost, and the story left me wanting.

Visually, it was bold and rich; a true masterpiece. The dance sequences were fantastic, and the singers' voices rose with beautiful clarity. The score was beautifully made, and added the punching emotion that the film required. Yet, my concerns of the beast's appearance were sadly confirmed to be valid, and I found it hard to accept his 'werewolf' and goat-like design. His 'tameness' was simply confusing, and he just didn't seem as beast-like as the original, which I preferred. 

Which leads me to my last, but most important concerns regarding the film. Despite the attempt to give the film a semi-historical feeling, I never truly felt as if I were seeing a glimpse into the small, provincial French village they wanted to create. To be honest, the movie carried such a modern, progressive vibe that couldn't be ignored, and was entirely out of place. If modern storytelling could be accused of a particular fault, it would be that current issues are often pasted on top of a tale that wasn't the best platform to promote the ideal. This couldn't have a better example then the 'gay story-line' that combated with Belle's adventure. Not only was it entirely unnecessary and added nothing to the story, it was simply bad storytelling. I understand that the issue is a big topic in our culture, but Disney's ploy to essentially place such controversial views in a children's film is entirely ridiculous. As a Christian, I believe that it isn't right to promote anything that blatantly goes against God's Word, and considering how some of the cast has handled the situation makes me feel even more repulsed.  

Overall, it is a film I probably won't watch again, and I certainly won't purchase it when it is released on DVD. No, I haven't made this choice simply because of the gay content, even though that certainly was a factor. It simply was not the best remake of a story cherished by many, and in my opinion the live-action remake didn't top the original by any means. It was largely disappointing, despite my expectations never being that high to begin with. 

If you want my advice, use discretion before walking in the theater. If your children want to watch Beauty and the Beast, I'd recommend the original animated film where the characters aren't as confusing and the heart of the story shines though, surely as the sun will rise. 

Prayer of the Lonesome Heart

(And now, I believe that this blog will henceforth be a place to post my many poems...enjoy!)

I thank God for the lonely days,
The hours, fading, blindly rushing by.
Colorful yet somber, cutting through the grey.

I thank God for the silence, even in a crowd,
Despite chaotic scrambling, a peace...
It washes over me, a blessed shroud.

How magnificently proud, the clouds roll,
Like a billowing storm inside my heart.
Eerily still, how the sight stirs my soul.

For how can I despise the darkness?
When indeed, a part of it hides in me?
Can I stand in a world that is heartless?

Can they ever understand what I see?
Or has loneliness become the norm?
Is silence the price of maturity?

Regardless of the jaded eyes, I digress,
To empty my convictions without a fight.
My heart is weak, but doubtless I confess.

Apathy cannot hinder a faithful flight. 

Tuesday, March 21, 2017

When Art Collides with Vision



A couple years back, I never thought that I would have the ability to created stunning digital pieces of art. It wasn't because I didn't want to become a digital artist; it was simply that I didn't believe I had what it took to do so. I limited myself by my own doubts and fears, and if I had continued to follow that path; I fear what the outcome would have been.

However, thankfully I did not remain in the slumps of despair, and instead let the fire in my heart overwhelm my doubts and contend with my fears. Every day, I am challenged with a new trial, and every day I must try my best to overcome it. For can any do any more, or less? Even when I feel like I've failed, and at the end of the day I have nothing to show for my efforts; yet still, I praise God.

He gave me the talents I have grown to love so deeply, but even more so, through my stories and my art; God has shown Himself to me in ways that still are unfathomable. While I've by no means arrived, I know I'm further ahead then I was those years ago. And that alone is enough to encourage me to keep looking forward, head high and heart full of hope. Without hope, we would lose far more then our passions. We would lose ourselves. I for one refuse to let the enemy take my dream, and no matter the trial or the circumstance; I believe that God gives us our talents and abilities to bring glory to His name.

What dream has God given you? What will you do with it? Are you slipping into the dangerous slopes of hopelessness and defeat? Do you feel like your passion has been asleep? If so, I have good news for you. It's not dead. I'll say that again: IT'S NOT DEAD. It is time for the sleepers to arise, for the lost, rejected, and broken ones to raise their blades with quivering hands and shout triumphantly with ragged, precious hearts ablaze. This day is not for the perfect, it is for the prepared. Those who are familiar with the taste of defeat will be given the liberty to dance with unshackled feet.

Precious one, loved by God; you are not alone in your fight. No matter the darkness, no matter it's might...you were never alone; all wrong will be made right.

Afterglow: A Poem Inspired by my Books

"Afterglow" was inspired by the story of Nula Swiftblade, the adoptive brother of Leah Sunstrider. Their story is told in The Peace Keepers Chronicles; soon to be released. 
More details coming soon!


You were always ahead of your time,
Standing so strong, gaze set forward.
The fiery heart, consuming your mind.

I always slipped behind, never ahead,
I watch you rise, unafraid of the night.
Yes, here I hide from my demons instead.

You slip from my gaze, a new day,
I'm trying to fight, but audacity,
Isn't what strikes me as I slip away.

Can't you see your fire is what I lack?
Do you notice the hurt dancing inside,
Drowned in the hope that I want back?

You fight so hard; eyes aflame, you strive,
Pain is a familiarity, rejection my friend.
I try to rise, but in the end, I'm barely alive.

Please don't misunderstand my pain,
For selfish need, I'm no-one's leech. 
My God, I just want to feel again.

So take your destiny in your hands,
Ride the wind upon broad wings.
Fearless, bring healing to our land.

I'll always follow in your great shadow,
Crippled but fighting, ever your rear guard.
I'm not whole, but I swear, I'm caught up in your afterglow.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

A Christians' Look at Racial Tension in the United States

     One does not have to look long and hard at our country, as well as the world at large, to see the mass racial tension that holds us in its vise-like grip. Even though this tension is by no means new, there has been a drastic shift in how it is expressed; and it is not a good one. Especially after the election of President Trump, the riots have not only increased in volume, but in violence as well; only further damaging already shattered ties. In a country torn asunder by hate and prejudice, it poses the question, “why?” and begs for an explanation, as well as a solution. What could that solution be? That depends on whom you ask. Ardent supporters of movements such as Black Lives Matter are armed with pointed declarations of injustice, and strive to improve the lives of African Americans; a certainly admirable goal to strive for.

     However, their actions do not always line up with what they say they believe. The ever-growing list of BLM violent protests and riots plaguing the nation tell us a different story; one of unified anger infused with hate, soaked through with blood. Whereas there are others who disagree with such actions, and slogans such as “all lives matter” have arisen in opposition. Contrasting with the often-violent actions of many on both sides, various organizations such as Star Parker’s CURE offer peaceful, Biblical solutions to the very real issues African Americans face. The difficulty with this subject is that the Church remains heavily divided regarding racial issues. Many Christians support groups such as Black Lives Matter, whereas others will adamantly disagree with the movement’s methods of addressing the situation, and propose differing solutions.  
   
     Amidst the confusing turmoil of beliefs and convictions, many are seeking answers not from a politician but the Word of God. What does the Bible say about racial issues? What stance should a Christian concerned about their ethnicity as well as their nation take? The first course of action is to delve into the Word itself. Right from the beginning, God clearly states that He made man in His own image; a special creation with a unique task. (Gen. 1:26) God did not create several races of men on the sixth day, there was only one race, and once race we remain. While there certainly are differences in ethnicity and culture; claiming that there are multiple races simply is not a Biblical position, nor is it supported in Scripture at all. We were all created and seen equally in His eyes, and many scriptures show God’s command to care for one another, including those that we might be tempted to see as lesser then ourselves. The Bible leaves no room for misinterpretation when we are admonished to love our neighbors as ourselves. We are even told that if we show favor to some, but not all, we are committing a sin. (James 2:8-9) Now, make no mistake, I am not saying that racial issues are invalid and are not a serious concern in our nation, on the contrary; I believe that they are very real and need to be properly addressed. We as Christians are called to do what is good, pursue justice for the oppressed and the fatherless, and take up for the widowed and the poor. (Isaiah 1:17) That doesn’t sound like a call to prejudice and hate, if you ask me.

     I’ll be the first to state that there are indeed issues infecting our nation, and the racial tension we all face isn’t simply an issue of a lack of education or understanding. There are legitimate concerns regarding the quality of life that many African Americans face, as well as many other ethnic groups in our nation. Many of the organizations and movements that have risen in the past few years have very valid reasons to exist, and some pose very truthful and hard-hitting questions that cannot be ignored. For example, the Black Lives Matter movement has shed light into impoverished and unmentioned struggles many African Americans face; struggles that have largely gone unmentioned in the public square, as well as unaddressed. 

     However, I cannot agree with the methods that many of these groups have employed to combat this issue. Christians are called to speak for the unspoken, to fight for the rights of the oppressed, and open our mouths in righteous judgment. (Proverbs 31:8-9) Oh, how we love to act out the ‘judging’ part of that passage. We are so quick to cast our judgments and biases that we fail to walk in love; and we, the Church, wound where we should heal. Almost every day I check the news, I will hear of the newest protest, and in most cases, it involves unjustifiable violence and rage-which points directly to a spiritual issue, not a physical one. It is not simply an ideal, but a disease that spreads like a wildfire and infects us to the very core with vengeful wrath and blind savagery.   

     Christians should not stand with organizations of any kind that promote further division and bloodshed in our country, as well as the Church. Such actions go against Jesus’s command for us to love one another, and to bring true change and healing, it must be through the saving grace of Christ. Many who fight for this cause are lost in the chaotic darkness of the world system, and need salvation to truly see the root of racial division; as well as Biblical ways to solve it. Instead of digging further in our separate trenches of division and strife, we should unite and work together to reach these people, and actually BE the change we wish to see in the world. I don't want to simply write this article and then never do anything other then penning my thoughts and convictions behind closed doors. The only way to change the world is to go out into the world and put your hands to the plow. How is this possible? One way to do so is to walk in love, and to see those around us as fellow human beings; loved by God as much as ourselves. The Bible warns us to avoid all manner of division among believers, and to beware false of doctrine being taught by those who do not truly serve Jesus. (Romans 16:17-18) We must be discerning regarding what and who we choose to listen to, and what we allow ourselves to believe. It is dangerously easy to slip into a strong emotional state and make decisions that do not line up with God’s Word; and this issue is no different. 

     Racial division is an issue that has lasted since the dawn of time, and while we can always combat flawed, incorrect ideology; it will never truly disappear until Christ returns and establishes His perfect reign over all. We must combat division within our ranks, and strive to see the world through God’s eyes, and not our own flawed perceptions. This starts when we make a choice to see our fellow man, as well as the world, differently. Instead of taking from the Bible what we like, and ignoring the parts that don’t line up with our own held beliefs, we must choose to stand on the Word as a whole. We, as the bearers of the message of His salvation, must do all that we can to raise the standard of living justly; treating all men and woman as equally loved creations in God’s eyes.  

The Warriors of Aragnar isn't Gone and Neither am I!

  This. Has. Been. A. Year. I have wanted to write so much on this blog over the past months. So, so, many things have taken place. In many ...