Tag Archives: Jason M. Alexandre

08.28.14
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For His Sake

“Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” –Psalm 44:22 (New International Version)

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Rise up and help us; rescue us because of your unfailing love (Psalm 44:26). May we remember in prayer our brothers and sisters in Christ being persecuted and facing hardship all over the world. Particularly, in the Middle East regions of Israel, Palestine, and the Gaza strip we hear and see on our televisions wars breaking out with matters of religion being at the root of the issues. Yet, it is no surprise to a Christian with spiritual understanding that time of persecution would come. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12). If you live in the United States as I do, you know that persecution is not as intense as in other parts of the world.

We too will inevitably face persecution, hardship or trials. The apostle Paul knew this very well in his lifetime and yet he continued to press on. “Oh we are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair, persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-12)

So when persecution, trouble, calamity or hardship comes, take courage! Christ has already overcome the world! (John 16:32). “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18) Amen

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born in November of 1989 in Brooklyn, N.Y. His family later moved to Philadelphia, Pa., and he now resides in Limerick, Pa. In May of 2014, Jason obtained his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Professionally, Jason counsels persons who are homeless, parents, veterans, and others who suffer from various kinds of abuse. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the Great Commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the Gospel to be spread from person-to-person and nation-to-nation. Annually, Jason travels primarily to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year, Haiti Christianity, Inc., visits cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothing, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly, evangelization takes place. Jason is currently the organization’s public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively. To learn more about the organization for which Jason volunteers, please visit www.HaitiChristianity.org.

 

 

08.09.14
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When It’s More Convenient

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

A few days later Felix came back with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish. Sending for Paul, they listened as he told them about faith in Christ Jesus. As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the coming Day of Judgment, Felix became frightened. “Go away for now,” he replied. “When it is more convenient, I’ll call for you again.” –Acts 24:24-25

Here we have in this passage of scripture the apostle Paul appearing before the Roman governor at the time Felix Antonius. Paul was brought in to trial before this governor in Caesarea to answer charges against him concerning a riot that broke out in Jerusalem. The Jewish high priest and the elders were fed up of this apostle going around spreading what they called the “Nazarene sect.” When it was Paul’s turn to speak, he admitted to being a follower of what he called instead, “the way.” I found it interesting that in verse 22 the Bible says that Felix was “well acquainted with the way” which could possibly and probably mean that he heard the gospel several times before or had a good amount of knowledge concerning it.

About two weeks ago I was evangelizing with a group of missionaries in Petite Rivière de l’Artibonite, Haiti. Several people I spoke to seemed very interested in the gospel message I presented to them but all except one stated “I’m not yet ready to accept Jesus Christ as my Savior.” I heard replies such as “I don’t have the time,” or “I have to get things right in my life first.” Another said “I would accept him but I don’t want to yet because I would feel like you persuaded me into it and it wasn’t my own choice. But someday I will.”

King Agrippa also felt this way when Paul later presented the gospel before him and Festus. For in chapter 26 of Acts he said “I am not insane, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable. The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”– Acts 26:25-28

Salvation

In matters of sharing the gospel, persuasion should not have the determining factor of whether one comes to accept Jesus Christ or not. The question that is most important is a question that every unbeliever should look deep into their heart when presented with the gospel and ask themselves, “Is this the truth or not?” Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me.”-John 14:6 Accepting the gospel is always “convenient.” Tomorrow is not promised and the day to be saved is always now. For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” -2 Corinthians 6:2

On January 12, 2010, a major earthquake with a 7.0 magnitude struck the country of Haiti. Over 160,000 people died that day. It was a regular day just like today. We’re not sure how many died as unbelievers. Friend I urge you today to delay no further if you haven’t accepted Christ. Don’t make the mistake governor Felix did of waiting for a more “convenient” time. There might never be another time except today.

-Jason

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born in November of 1989 in Brooklyn, N.Y. His family later moved to Philadelphia, Pa., and he now resides in Limerick, Pa. In May of 2014, Jason obtained his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Professionally, Jason counsels persons who are homeless, parents, veterans, and others who suffer from various kinds of abuse. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the Great Commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the Gospel to be spread from person-to-person and nation-to-nation. Annually, Jason travels primarily to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year, Haiti Christianity, Inc., visits cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothing, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly, evangelization takes place. Jason is currently the organization’s public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively. To learn more about the organization for which Jason volunteers, please visit www.HaitiChristianity.org.

07.18.14
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No Other God

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

“I will give you one more chance to bow down and worship the statue I have made when you hear the sound of the musical instruments. But if you refuse, you will be thrown immediately into the blazing furnace. And then what god will be able to rescue you from my power? Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, “O Nebuchadnezzar we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” –Daniel 3:15-17

As the annual mission trip for Haiti Christianity Inc., quickly approaches, we ask that you keep us in fervent prayer. Prayers are always needed when our brothers and sisters in Christ are traveling to foreign lands with the intended purpose to encourage believers and carry out the Great Commission in spreading the Gospel to unbelievers. This July in Haiti, we will evangelize, conduct vacation bible school and professional skills conferences and bring an array of children’s clothing, shoes, medical and educational supplies. We thank you in advance for how your prayers will add to the blessing of empowering us through the Holy Spirit to carry the mission to advance the Kingdom of God. Now you may be wondering why this week’s devotional scripture comes from the book of Daniel and how it relates to anything I just mentioned. Let me explain.

This past February, I traveled to the beautiful and rich in history country of Thailand also known as the “land of smiles.” My experience in Thailand was nothing short of amazing. It was everything I envisioned it would be. Although this was not a mission-focused trip but rather a study abroad trip conducted by my former University, time of testing came to me. The Lord’s voice to me was so crystal clear and so loud within my spirit I could not ignore it. At some point during the trip, our kind native volunteers took us to one of the Buddhist temples and engaged us to participate in a worship/mediation demonstration of their Buddha golden statue.

Everything within me said “Do not participate, do not bow” and I did not. I was taken aback that other self-professed Christians with us on the trip decided to participate. I do not know whether I offended our native volunteers or not but two of them came to me and asked why I decided not to participate. I said to her, “I believe my worship and meditation should be only reserved for my Lord Jesus Christ.”

One said, “Oh you’re Christian? It’s okay I have friends who are Christians who do this along with us. It’s okay you can do it.” Once more, I told her I could not, for I knew I would be betraying the One and only true God also known as the “invisible God” or as the “Unknown God” as the apostle Paul put it.

As I close, I want to leave you with an encouraging scripture of when the apostle Paul preached in Athens.

“So Paul, standing before the council, addressed them as follows: “Men of Athens, I notice that you are very religious in every way, for as I was walking along I saw your many shrines. And one of your altars had this inscription on it: ‘To an Unknown God.’ This God, whom you worship without knowing, is the one I’m telling you about. “He is the God who made the world and everything in it. Since he is Lord of heaven and earth, he doesn’t live in man-made temples, and human hands can’t serve his needs-for he has no needs. He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need. From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries.” – Acts 17:22-26

Amen.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

 

07.11.14
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Learning to Obey God

Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” –John 4:34 (New Living Translation)

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

In the Christian walk, “obedience” is a word often associated within a negative context rather than positive. The English dictionary defines obedience to be “the act or practice of obeying; dutiful or submissive compliance.” In a world that is increasingly encouraging personal, financial, and sexual freedom among many other things, obedience can be a dreadful experience if you’re not thinking rightly about it. But Jesus wants us to have JOY in obeying the Father! Just as it pleased Him and gave Him joy to obey God, so it should please us!

But if we desire to obey God, let it not be from a spirit of unwillingness, fear, or contempt but rather because we LOVE Him. For Jesus said, “All who love me will do what I say. My father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.” – John 14:23 Loving God means keeping his commandments, and his commandments are not burdensome. – 1 John 5:2-3

One thing we must remember while being obedient is that we have a High Priest in Jesus who endured obedience before us. In his humanity, he learned the impact of full obedience to God. For even though Jesus was God’s son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. –Hebrews 5:8. And this High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testing’s we do, yet he did not sin. –Hebrews 4:15 He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. –Philippians 2:8 He did this out of LOVE for his father and out of love for us.

So how exactly do we learn how to obey God? Let me suggest a few ways that has worked in my life and other Christians. First we choose to TRUST him and do it his way instead of our own. Jesus gave us an example of this when he said, “For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will.” –John 6:38 Second, understand that patience and faith are requirements in obedience. Be determined to wait upon God in prayer. His timing is always perfect.

Third, we must meditate on His word EVERY single day. It is impossible to live an obedient life with a closed Bible. Finally, we must be CONFIDENT enough to leave all the consequences to him. There is an inexplicable FREEDOM in knowing that you have obeyed God in your life situation and you leave whatever happens next to him. The psalmist knew this very well when he said, “I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments”-Psalm 119:45. Yet, beware of that prowling lion our enemy the Devil. He will keep attempting to move you toward “partial obedience.” Rationalization is one of Satan’s biggest weapons to keep you off base in your relationship with God.

Dear friends, life at its best comes from obeying the Father. Obedience is something you will never regret for it ALWAYS brings blessings. Amen.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

07.04.14
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Fear? It’s Not From God

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline (sound mind).” -2 Timothy 1:7 (New International Version)

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

We all have experienced in our lives that uneasy, dreadful, threatening, and imbalanced feeling and emotion of “fear.” Some of us deal with feelings of fear each day and we ask God, “When we will this ever end?” Maybe you’re feeling fearful about what the doctor will say about your condition next visit? Maybe you’re not sure what direction you’re heading in life and that’s causing you to fear? Whatever is causing you to fear, know that the emotion of fear is NOT from our loving God.

The Bible says that God did not give us that sort of spirit but he gave us one of power, love, and self-discipline. Furthermore, our loving Father said, “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand” –Isaiah 41:10.

So where exactly did feelings of fear come from? Let me suggest that it may have been a result of learned perceptions or attitudes we may have picked up as children from someone else. Often times it could be our family members and we consequently carried those same attitudes and perceptions into our adulthood. There is NOTHING good or beneficial to holding on to feelings of fear.

2-Timothy-1-7

Fear undermines our self-confidence, produces poor self-images of ourselves, stifles our abilities to think creatively and make sound decisions from an inner place of wisdom, forces us to doubt, and ultimately gives us a wrong view of an all-loving God. Sin is also deceptively crafty at inviting fear into our lives. If we blindly live in it, a series of other damaging feelings can follow such as guilt, anger, jealously, rejection and many other similar feelings toward ourselves and we’ll project those feelings onto others.

Yet, God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him (John 3:16). This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and His love is brought to full expression in us. And God has given us His spirit as proof that we live in Him and He in us”-1 John 4:9-13.

Friend, the next time you feel fear, stop what you’re doing, slow down and make the CHOICE to embrace the LOVE of God that is readily accessible to you at every moment.  Amen

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

06.26.14
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Truth, Camouflage or False: Exercise Discernment

“You have dealt well with your servant, O Lord, according to your word. Teach me good discernment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments.” –Psalm 119:65-66 (New American Standard Bible)

 

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

If you want to know the power of the Word of God and its benefits, read the entire chapter of Psalm 119. In this chapter, you will soon realize the Christian’s need for the Word of God. If you wholly trusted in Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, you now have the gift of the Holy Spirit to help guide you through every single decision or circumstance you will face today and in the future. As Christians, we must distinguish truth from error. We need to exercise always a discerning spirit.

We live in a deceitful world, half-truths mixed with truth and counterfeit ideas where we need to constantly ask ourselves: “Am I hearing the truth or not?”

Unfortunately, I have visited many churches and heard many Pastors’ preach sermons where the content was not biblically based and it pained my heart to walk out of those churches each time.  And I think of the Christians who remained in those pews possibly and probably believing that what they were hearing was a message from “The Lord.” It is the responsibility of the Pastor to teach right doctrine according to the Bible.-Ezekiel 44:22-23 I want to caution and exhort you to discern always. Discerning is about making right-judgments. It’s not about judging someone in a condemning sort of fashion but it’s about making sure that you are truly listening to the voice of God.

Many folks will go to church year after year, week after week and never learn how to listen to the voice of God because they put their trust in a Pastor who may be telling them a message totally erroneous and contradictory to the Word of God. Any church that does not believe in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, from cover to cover, leave that church as fast as you can before you and your family are contaminated by false doctrine. The Bible says, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”-1 John 4:1 And for the unbeliever confronted with truth, the Bible says“But a natural man does not accept the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised.” –1 Corinthians 2:14

We must constantly be reading the Word of God so that we can discern rightly. If we neglect it, in no time we’ll begin to start thinking as the world thinks. We live in an age where we are constantly bombarded with information. Think about how much time we spend listening to the TV, radio, and music and then the little time we read spending the word of God.

In no time at all, naturally, the messages of the world’s viewpoints will start over powering God’s viewpoints on life decisions and circumstances. No Christian can live a godly life with a closed Bible. You cannot. It is absolutely essential to recognizing God’s voice (truth), counterfeit, or what is not truth. Friend, I caution you to stay in the Word of God so that you can learn to discern in a world where truth is becoming less and less. God bless you. Amen.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

 

06.13.14
by

Intimacy With the Father

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

“O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy. I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night. Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.” –Psalm 63:1-8

What an admirable and authentic intimate relationship we see in this passage of scripture between David and the father. At a time when it would have been understandable if David felt confused, alienated, afraid or hopeless, he decided that he would put his trust in God and give him praises. David had been crowned King of Israel and yet he had not yet taken the throne or began to rule. Instead he was sojourning from cave to cave and wilderness to wilderness running away from King Saul and other enemies. However, like a child who finds security in his parents, David consistently remembered the faithfulness of God. “The Lord will work out his plans for my life-for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for you made me.”–Psalm 138:8

Friend, an intimate loving relationship with the Lord is of a different quality than that which we experience with people. Often times in our relationships with people we don’t go beyond the touch and feeling and are satisfied with what is presented on the surface. But the very reason we were created was for us to come into an intimate relationship with God. And the only way in which we can truly come to know him is if we transcend the physical into the spiritual. “For God is spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” –John 4:24 And we have the capacity to come to know him and worship in the spirit because we were made in his image. For the Bible says, “Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us.” –Genesis 1:26

Friend, like David knew, God is personally INTERESTED IN YOU. Yes you! He wants you to enter into a loving spiritual intimate relationship with him that is beyond what you can see, touch, and feel. One that is open and transparent. A relationship that is loving, trusting, honest, and free. If you trusted in Jesus Christ as your personal savior, you don’t have to worry about judgment and him condemning you for what you have to share with him. This relationship is different than that you experience with people.

When you pray, EXPECT God to respond back to you. An intimate relationship with God requires real TIME and EFFORT. It’s a two-way street of prayer and listening. Hurriedness, pride, and rebellion will undoubtedly block us from the benefits of understanding, stability, security, and serenity we can experience in an intimate relationship with God.  Friend, I have named a few of benefits of intimacy with God. There is so much more. Spend time with him today. When we express love to God, we are giving ourselves to him totally and completely for his purpose to bring him joy. “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guards your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”-Philippians 4:7 Amen. God bless you.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

06.05.14
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Day and Night

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:6-9 (New Living Translation)

This passage of scripture reminds us of a time in the past where the nation of Israel should have been afraid. For their leader, a godly man named Moses, just passed away. Now who would lead the people into the Promised Land? The Lord gave that special charge to Joshua and God assured Joshua that just as he was with Moses so he would be with him. –Joshua 1:2-5. Yet, this was a conditional promise. For Joshua had to study the book of instruction, meditate on it day and night, and obey what was written in it. Only then would he and the Israelites prosper and succeed in everything they did. At that time, their book of instruction is what our Bible is today.  Although, the Bible was written thousands of years ago, its content is still applicable to us today and was written for us.

“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” –2 Timothy 3:16-17. The Word of God (Bible) teaches us His will and purpose for our lives. It is the very mind of God on paper that was imparted to us and for our benefit. He speaks to us through it. Not only can the word give us direction but it also encourages us and gives us courage to face a world and its many contradictory belief systems on how to truly live a successful godly life. The psalmist knew this very well when he said, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”-Psalm 119:105

Truth is, although it may look like many people have the appearance of success and seem to get along without reading and absorbing the Bible, whatever one acquires outside of God’s will eventually turns to ashes. “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.”-James 1:22. If you are reading this today and forget everything tomorrow, remember this, OBEDIENCE ALWAYS BRINGS BLESSINGS.

Friend, I encourage you today to stay in the Word of God each day and each night. But don’t do it because God commanded it although we should. Do it because he loves you and you love him. For Jesus said “if you love me, obey my commandments”-John 14:15. God wants the BEST for you friend and he wants to show you all that he has for you. Yes! He is faithful and will keep his promises. I am a witness. Just as he was with those who came before us so he will be with us. Indeed, “No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced.” –Psalm 25:3

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

05.30.14
by

Are You Available? F.A.T.?

And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” –Isaiah 6:8 (English Standard Version)

 

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Jason M. Alexandre, Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

I once had a compelling conversation with a deacon at my church about a year ago about the state of the Christian church today and its Christians. He said, “God is looking for F.A.T. Christians, ones who are faithful, available, and teachable.”  He was expressing his frustration in the increasing lethargic attitude of getting and staying involved in ministries our church cohort was presently experiencing and the unwillingness to evangelize to the outside world. But which characteristic should come first in being a F.A.T. Christian? Let me suggest that a spirit of availability should. For being available for the Lord will then lead to being teachable, which will ultimately lead to being faithful to the Kingdom of God and his purposes because you now know the truth. Have we overtime become complacent and forgotten the great commission given to us by the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? The truth is, the gospel was never meant for us to keep for ourselves. Getting saved was just the beginning and we ought not sit down after that doing nothing. The gospel was meant to be shared with others once we received that unearned, undeserving, and all-loving gift.

“And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” –Mark 16:15-16. One might say who am I? I have no special training, taken no theological courses, I’m no deacon and I’m no pastor! Well friend, while you might not have taken any courses nor are you a Deacon or a Pastor, you do have a powerful testimony of where God has brought YOU from into the gift of salvation. Your testimony is vast and full of godly gems in it’s content. The gospel is a simple message and it starts with YOUR life!

For you were lost, but now you are found. You didn’t believe but now you do. Somebody introduced you to the gospel and somebody out there still needs to hear it. All it starts with is your life story and what Jesus Christ has done for you through his saving work on the cross. Don’t be afraid of what you will say.

You have a helper in the Holy Spirit. For the Bible says, “But when the father sends the advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”–John 14:26. The question is, are you available? Friend, let us embrace the spirit Isaiah the prophet had when the Lord called for someone to speak on his behalf to the people of Israel. A spirit of willing availability. Here I am! Send me. I tell you friend, once you start opening your heart to be used by the Lord, he will give you all the confidence you need to get the task done. In Jesus’ name. Amen. Be blessed.

-Jason M. Alexandre

About Jason M. Alexandre

Jason Melchizedek Alexandre was born on November 29, 1989 in Brooklyn, New York. However, at two years old he and his family moved to Philadelphia, PA. Later, Jason moved to Limerick, PA where he now resides. Jason is currently working toward obtaining his Master of Social Work degree at Widener University. Although Jason’s career is Social Work, his spiritual passion is missions. Jason believes in actively answering the great commission call Jesus gave all Christians for the gospel to be spread from nation to nation. On a yearly basis, Jason primarily goes to Haiti on a mission trip with Haiti Christianity Inc. Each year Haiti Christianity visits different cities and/or villages in Haiti bringing children educational supplies, clothes, and medical supplies. They also facilitate conferences in which bible study, budgeting tips, financial planning and most importantly evangelization takes place. Jason is currently their public relations director. Jason’s vision is for the gospel to continue to be spread throughout the world and believes it is Christian’s responsibility to carry out this mission effectively.

05.28.14
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1 Year Later: Blessings, Joy, Service Continues

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Nicole D. Hayes, Creator of Voices Against the Grain

Today, May 28, 2014, is the one-year anniversary of Voices Against the Grain media ministry. The blog launched on May 28, 2013, followed by the radio show’s first episode that aired on September 4, 2013.  In March 2013, the Holy Spirit prompted me to launch this bold platform where we are “advancing God’s Kingdom in a ‘do your own thing’ society.” A platform that allows God’s people to share the messages He has placed on their hearts to equip others in Christ and free those enslaved by the deceptions and bondage of this world. To bring clarity amidst confusion. To bring truth where there is deception. To bring healing where there is brokenness.

Within this past year, God has blessed us to be connected with more Kingdom-minded people, including our devotional writers, show guests, supporters and others. He has given us favor in areas and territories unexpected. He has allowed us to touch lives in ways I had not conceived. It is a joy to serve with the Lord and His people, as we equip and empower others to stand as Christ’s light and truth in a fallen world.

The blessings continue to come, as witnessed in the following post below. Our devotional writer Ana Martinez, through the almighty power of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, was freed this year from 22 years of shame, self-hatred and brokenness brought on by sexual abuse and rape that occurred in her youth. Voices Against the Grain served as part of that healing when Ana bravely and authentically shared her testimony during our February 12, 2014 episode. After the show, many people contacted her and us to thank her for inspiring them to seek their healing. Today, she continues to share her testimony to help free others and remind them how the Lord will restore what was stolen from us. He will break the chains that enslave us.

I invite you to read her post, “Loss of Innocence, A Future Restored” published on the blog of pureHOPE, a ministry that envisions a world free of sexual exploitation and brokenness by providing Christian solutions in a sexualized culture. pureHOPE and Voices Against the Grain became partners in January 2014, with a passion to combat porn and other forms of sexual exploitation. During the February 12, 2014 radio show, we were grateful to be joined by pureHOPE president Noel Bouché. We thank pureHOPE for publishing Ana’s story.

We also invite you to listen to today’s radio show as our team reflects on the past year in “Still Punchin’: Voices Against the Grain 1-Year Anniversary.”

We have more work to do, but stay encouraged and stay staunch. Keep moving. We have the victory through Christ! We are excited to continue serving with you. Thank you for your support and prayers.

God Bless You,

Nicole