From Boot Camp to the Pulpit: “Promotion Comes from the Lord”

By Vivian A. Nesmith M.P.A.

This book is for SAVED FOLK, who desires to reach their potential and vocation in Ministry. Use it as a tool to transform everyday struggles into testimonies and apprehend the gifts of the Holy Ghost. As a prisoner of the Lord, walk according to your Christian profession. Life struggles are the stepping-stones used to shift you into a position to receive God’s favor and anointing. So, use them to your advantage because you are worthy and can reach far beyond the opinions of others. Embrace who you are as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ. From Boot Camp to the Pulpit, know that the struggle is real; but God can do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Keep it simple and moving, adhere to the promises of God for He has petitioned you for greatness.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Nov 10, 2020
• ISBN: 9781664208957

Vivian A. Nesmith M.P.A.

Vivian Nesmith has a treasure in her earthen vessel. The Excellency and Power are of God and not of herself. She is a vessel full of the Holy Ghost and counts not herself to have apprehended all things. This one thing she has done is forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. Rejoicing in the love of Jesus Christ, sharing with others the same power of his resurrection. Vivian lives and abides in the Presence of God. In November 2018, Volumes I and II of “The Lord Is My Everything, He Is the Air That I Breathe,” were published and this is her fourth book. She is a mother of five, a grandmother of seven, a hard worker and enjoys making others smile. Vivian instills in her family that every day is a new day and it is given for the Children of God to worship and exalt the Name of Jesus Christ. She is an Assistant Pastor under the leadership and guidance of Senior Pastor and Teacher Rev. Dr. Charles R. McCormick and her Mentor, Pastor Fred Willis at Gospel Fellowship Church “On The Move For Christ.” The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost have ordained her to fully preach the gospel of Christ. Her educational background includes an A.A in Accounting from Miami Dade College, B.A. in Business Administration, and an M.P.A a Master’s in Public Administration from Nova SouthEastern University.

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Copyright © 2020 Vivian A. Nesmith, M.P.A.

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This book is a work of non-fiction. Unless otherwise noted, the author and the publisher make no explicit guarantees as to the accuracy of the information contained in this book and in some cases, names of people and places have been altered to protect their privacy.

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Scripture taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

ISBN: 978-1-6642-0894-0 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-6642-0893-3 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-6642-0895-7 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2020920136

WestBow Press rev. date: 11/05/2020

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_________________________________

Acknowledgment

In life, we experience the same situations or circumstances; but, we deal with each differently. From the lips of wise women and men, they share golden nuggets or words of wisdom to foster our survival skills. Sowing seeds of wisdom supports increasing areas of our faith in Jesus Christ. The knowledge gained boosts our comprehension. As a result, we can understand how to best deal with the challenges. Often, if one could just simply understand why they must endure such pain, or why on certain days they laugh uncontrollably, or why some days are more energetic than others, maybe everyone could understand how to deal with life in simplicity. However, we fail to understand that life did not come with a manual. Therefore, every circumstance is first-hand knowledge and later known as the perils of life. Growing up, we couldn’t wait to become our own person. It was so important to grow up fast for whatever reasons; that we did not want to take the time to hear and learn from the mistakes made by others. So, we learn from personal failures, what to do differently, and what not to do. Well, trials-and -errors set us back because of poor listening skills.

As a child, we depended on others, such as mothers, fathers, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and the entire family. Someone had to teach us how to live. Yet, as we grew, school taught us how to deal with isolated issues relating to life. They explained How to Become Successful in Life, and remained attentive to those willing to learn. Somewhere in between the teachings, some pupils failed and became lost in the world. Many people did not care about the lost, so they never made it. You see, there is a difference when we are attentive to wise teachings spoken by wise women and men. You see, in this life, they would have not only spoke on the importance of school but also the importance of serving Jesus Christ.

The wise elders would try to catch the young before their wholly counted out. You would hear words such as, it is never too late, to get it right, and you still have time. Or maybe, you have listened to, keep on trusting God, and never give up. These are words that imprint and take charge for a lifetime. Sowing seeds of wisdom not only supports increasing areas of our faith in Jesus Christ, but it also sows seeds of wisdom in the secular bowels of carnal thinking. Hopefully, every soul will take heed to understand and accept Jesus Christ as their "Lord and Savior, The Great Teacher, and Master of All Things.

We acknowledge the Godly wisdom of every Elder, that took the time to share their life’s experience and helping to guide our footsteps on the paths of righteousness. For your testimonies have enabled us to become walking epistles of the Gospel of Truth.

James 1:5

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Hebrews 12:2

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Always look to Christ for a resolution to all problems. He is the provider and the author of your life’s story. As the author, He wrote your life’s plan and perfected it according to His will, power, and authority. Hence, without taking a deep breath to reside within His Presence, we falter. Unknowingly, we quietly invite imperfections that sting for a lifetime. Although these faults may appear to overwhelm these vessels of clay, Jesus Christ can perfect all that He has created. As we continue to rehearse the phrase, The Lord is My Everything; He Is The Air That I Breathe. We proclaim total dependence upon our Master. The One, that has all the power to erase sins. Take your hardships and turn them into everlasting testimonies. Continuously travel on your journey to perfecting your Spiritual Success, focusing strongly on what you are called to do for the Kingdom of God. Nothing else matters, travail in the anointing placed on your life. Never give up on the struggles of life is the battlefield where you are armed to win. From Boot Camp to The Pulpit, take nothing for granted. Your struggles are golden nuggets to support the ministry of others. We all need to know how to soar high on the wings of God and not lose altitude and fall to the ground.

When no one else believes in You! Understand your position in Jesus Christ and lean on Him for everything. By human nature, flesh envies flesh and will do whatever to keep you down and counted out. Remember, you are a Child of the Living King. For what glory is it? If beaten for your faults, you should tolerate it and push through the pain and reclaim happiness. Battling through adversities should not weaken your faith. It should build your stance and render power, authority, and relationship in Jesus Christ. Stand up and focus on whose and who you are because Jesus Christ has equipped you to win. Patiently wait on him, to strengthen your hands for the battles, and you must be willing to learn obedience. Surrendering your life—and adopting the ways of the Holy Ghost, which is acceptable to God. For even hereunto were you called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should follow his steps.

Let them beat you with their wagging tongues filled with lies and deceit. Even if some of their words are true, a real person will never embarrass the one they profess to love. The flesh is evil, untrustworthy, and only a few are real to their hearts. Do not allow the opinions of others to detour your focus. Feelings of doubt should transition to determination and persistence. Never stand still at one point, daydreaming about the next move in life. Take hold of the Holy Ghost, strap up your boots, and prepare for combat training in the Spirit.

Often, we lose sight of the things that have a higher value. We have become accustomed to trying to make something fit into nothing. Since Jesus is all so familiar with our mishaps, He is waiting for the opportunity to converse with you. Therefore, the heart must trust and abide by the Book of the Law, treasuring every Word and applying the precepts daily. Know that Righteousness will support growth. But our Faith will give us the tools for total submission. We as Saints look to Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith, and for His wisdom to do what is pleasing unto Him. Although we are called and chosen to share in the gospel, we must mimic the Walk of Jesus Christ and learn about His glory and honor.

The love and kindness that he so willingly portrayed on behalf of a dying world are evidence that we are more than simple creatures. He lovingly breaths upon the frailty of His people and pleads for all to return to Him. God Bless you, look up and live in the Name of Jesus Christ.

Contents

Acknowledgment

Introduction

What to Expect

Accepting Jesus Christ

Choose Repentance

The Initial Draft

Promise To Seekers

In Times of Trouble

Preparation for Blessings

Your Position is Not in the Line of Fire

Commander In Chief

The Great I AM THAT I AM

Comparison to Another

God and God Alone

The Armour of God

Suit up

The Armour of God

Put Away the Strange Gods

No Other God

Prisoners of War

Faithfulness

Likeminded in Christ

The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

Wait Until I Find Him Seek and You Shall Find

Changing Partners

Strengthen Your Hands

Who is on the LORD’S Side?

Mirrored Effect

Clean The Mirror To See Your Reflection

Battle Cry

STOP, STAND, AND TAKE A DEEP BREATH

Echoes Through The Bones

Seven Trumpets of Ram’s Horn

Singing Song of Praise

Treason

The Insecurities of a Pawn

Reinforcing Your Strategy

She Wants to Talk

Betrayed by Family

Faithful Stands Tall Looking Up to The Sky

Wrong Camp

Relationships

Stay on your side

The Noise of War

Arms Up

Praise Him

Find A Stronger Partner

Duke Amalek father of The Amalekites

The Bully and The first to Attack Children of Israel

Shielded

Caught In Between A Waging War

The Battles

Building Barriers

Good Name

God Fearing

Let Your Works Speak For You

Devoted to The Law

Known by Your Praise

Truthfulness

Prepare for War

Training Grounds

Hiding from The Enemy

Surrounded by The Enemy

Never Surrender

Surrender to The LORD and Not The Enemy

Smiling Through The Pain

Hunger Pains

This Satisfies the Soul

It Is A New Day!

Imprisoned by Circumstances

Fiery Darts

Believing the Commander In Chief

The Voices of God

Be Prepared for Brewing Storms

Listen for The Voices of God

Bloody and Rescued

Bloody and Rescued

When Your Mind Plays Tricks With You

Grace Rescued Us

What Will It Take?

The Call

The Correct Blood Type

Rescued and The Way of Escape

What Is Your Testimony

The Enemy is A Snitch

Snitch

Deception

Separation

Opposition

Be It Known

The Word of God Quickens the Spirit

Foot Soldiers

Go and Teach All Nations

Ranks in The Ministry

The Brigades

We Are One Body

Explaining It To The New Comer

Salvation – Restoring your relationship, walking in the light, the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin.

Lookup

Beware of the Strong man

Sanctification – Deny the flesh and restrain yourself from indulging in ungodliness or worldly lusts.

Purification – the state and process of becoming free, purer than snow, flawless, perfect, clean, to return to cleanliness through the washing away of sins.

Edification – build-up, encourage one another equally and intellectually.

Mortification – deny the flesh

The Ranks or Positions in Ministry

Some Friends Sticks Closer Than A Brother

Full Report

Delirious, Confused & Rambling

SMILE

Jesus Won The Battle

The Battle Is Now

The War Zone In the Mind.

The War Zone In Your Faith.

The War Zone Warring Within Yourself.

Crossing Over Jordan

Single Combat

Learn How to Win

The Cadence of Praises in The Heart

Give Thanks

He Has Made Me Glad, Glad, Glad!

Why Do I Lift him Up

Do You Know?

Snares and Tears

Why Do You Sing Ole Child of God

The Promotion

The Promotion

Poetry

Life Is Funny

I Was Not Expecting That

A Friend Forever

The Little Girl

Soap Opera Conversation

Light the Way

Do You Know

Hey You

Thankful

Listen

Rags

Take Five

Get Up! Strive for Perfection

Say, What? Say, It Ain’t So!

My Hands Are T.I.E.D

From One – To - Ten

Sunshine

Exquisitely You

My Story

The Struggles Are Real

From Boot Camp to The Pulpit

This book is for SAVED FOLK, who desires to reach their potential and vocation in Ministry. Use it as a tool to transform everyday struggles into testimonies and apprehend the gifts of the Holy Ghost. As a prisoner of the Lord, walk according to your Christian profession. Life struggles are the stepping-stones used to shift you into a position to receive God’s favor and anointing. So, use them to your advantage because you are worthy and can reach far beyond the opinions of others. Embrace who you are as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ. From Boot Camp to the Pulpit, know that the struggle is real; but God can do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.

As you read this book, you will notice the mispronunciations, grammatical errors, and comma splices, and much more. Please, excuse all my mistakes, for I am not perfect, and thank you for purchasing this book.

Always keep it simple and moving, adhere to the promises of God, for He has petitioned you for greatness.

Introduction

Today is a good day! Trust me; it is a good day. For starters, you purchased a book that will help support your journey towards holiness. Secondly, we are always curious about many things and let me intrigue your mind. This book is written by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. So, if you are not SAVED, then we must get you to repentance. Romans 10:9…That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

If you are not ready to serve Jesus Christ, then maybe you should pass this book over as a gift to someone else. Hopefully, that person is prepared for a complete change in themselves as well as their lifestyles. Often, we encounter new things without having the full inclination of what it is that we are doing. Well, I have been SAVED for 27 years, and I am thankful for Jesus Christ saving an old soul such as myself.

Anyways, there are a few things that must be understood. Now, if you are employed, you will do what it takes to ensure that the employer does not terminate your employment. So, you try to arrive to work on time, perform all duties and responsibilities, close-up, and go home. When you chose SALVATION, it is like a job. It requires commitment, devotion, separation, and love.

Physically, confronted with diverse problems, and the sensuality of our thinking will produce a solution that may not be in your best interest. There is an old saying that The world takes care of its own. I never understood this; but, you can remain sure that it entraps and detonates much grief. On the contrary, having Jesus Christ as your LORD and Savior; becomes a game-changer. You see, spiritually, we endure different trials and tribulations. Although these tribulations confine themselves to us, Christ becomes the problem solver. He works the problem, and in return, we are to publish his name and make known his marvelous works.

When you make the transition, a Christian must be comfortable with being called a Child of God. Commonly, many proclaim to be Christians; but are far from understanding their obligations. Now, a Christian is committed to following Jesus Christ. Hence, your behavior, speech, and lifestyle should mirror Christlike attributes. Moreover, you will experience difficulties; but, not so different than what life has already thrown at you. I know that you may not understand what I mean. The Word of God reminds us (1 Corinthians 10:13) that no temptation will overtake us, such as what is common. Whatever may be the problem, circumstance, or issue, we have the strength to endure. We reach far beyond our breaking point and push harder to live. Live according to the Gospel of Truth, designed to Set-Free, those seeking righteousness inwardly.

Nonetheless, we can get over the problem. As a Christian or Saint belonging to Jesus Christ, He is faithful and will not allow the temptation to be more than what we can bear. He will make way for you to escape. Again, Jesus Christ will make way for us to survive. When you look around wondering, how? That will be your cue that The LORD your God has prepared the way. Sounds a bit simple and fantastic, Huh?

What to Expect

Before we get started, there are a few items that you will need for the duration of this journey. Materials: Bible, Spiral notebook, Bible dictionary, Bible concordance, Pastor to provide instruction and guidance, A place of Worship (preferably you obtaining Church Membership by joining a Church) Prayer, Devoted Christian Mentor, Persistence, Patience, and The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Friend, to know Jesus Christ, you must know His Word. At this moment, nothing else mattered more than having and building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Remember, this is your Soul and your journey. Therefore, this thing is between the Father, Son, Holy Ghost, and you. He can be found in the volume of the book, which is the Holy Bible, and in it is written of Him. Break for a side note - Commonly, some people use the Word of God or (Bible) to reference other things. They would say something of the sort like the employee manual, cookbook, or this, and that is your bible. I don’t get it – many take Christianity so lightly and easily disrespect the religion. Well, to God Be the Glory! To each its own opinion—but, this book references the Holy Bible King James Version.

Anyway, you should find a sanctified, Holy Ghost filled, handclapping, and feet stomping Pentecostal Church. No, all Churches are not the same. Furthermore, some are dignified, whereas; you cannot praise the name of God. Others are so self-righteous that they lead you into becoming a religious nut. Let me pause – I just don’t get it. Again, to each, its own opinion—connect yourself to a Church where you can worship the LORD and not feel bound to act or dress a certain way. Ladies, let’s be real about how we dress going to Church, which is modest apparel and is different from nightlife dressing. You don’t have to wear skirts down to the floor or shirts that button up under the throat. Ask the Holy Ghost to teach you how to dress, and he will touch your heart and give guidance on what is and not appropriate.

Correspondingly, never get entrapped by the feel of the music or the size of the congregation. The beat of the music, choir, or the Church’s magnitude will not and cannot SAVE, your soul. Again, it is the LORD, your God. Never mind the size of the Church. Some folk enjoy large congregations’ others prefer medium or small. I have been a part of all three and found that the medium to small Churches was adequate for me.

What is the difference? I am glad that you asked. Some medium to small Churches does not require their members to make an appointment to meet their Church leadership when a dire emergency arises. Secondly, some realize the importance of securing the flock while building their trust in the Word of God. Depending on the distance and location, they are there to comfort and encourage the congregation. Throughout the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, we are told of great men and women that provided support to bring God’s people through the ordeal, and they did not have to make an appointment. Furthermore, at the end of the Church service, you get to shake the Church leadership hand and not worry about the bodyguard, who is ready to tackle you, as if you were on a football team.

Also, you have more access to Church leadership to converse with them one on one; in the presence of another and not privately. They are responsible for your soul. The Church should feel like a family. When it feels like family, you will love going to Church. Finally, it is vital the Church leadership know your name and can put a face with the name. It is not good to be recognized by the amount of money you contributed or by a number.

As for the music and choir - it is okay. But, when the music is no more, learn how to praise God with your hands and feet. Many psalmists can bellow out a melody that soothes your soul, and that is without all the screaming and hollering. Some perform an overkill on a simple song. Just do not get caught up on the music. A pure offbeat Saint singing from their heart sings better than all the rest. (Laughing) Trust me. You will know when you are in the right Church. The LORD will show you. You will know.

As a Saint, we experience different trials, tribulations, hardships, pain, joy, happiness, and the list can go on. Sometimes we are wounded, counted down; but not counted out. In Church, you are more than a brother or sister. Take up the Armour of God, stay on the battlefield, and introduce a lost soul to Jesus Christ. If you allow Him to peel away the old layers of sin, you will begin to grow in Him. As you increase in your faith, Christ will start to elevate you even more. Always keep in mind, Every year, should be better than the year before. Nothing should remain the same, Not even you in the house of God. For, promotion comes from Jesus Christ, and he is ready to teach you how to fly high like an eagle.

Jesus Christ is real. He is the air that I breathe, and I cannot do anything without Him. So, as we journey together, be real about who you are, and walk in the vocation, you are called. Now, the time has come for us to work. Always remain in the "Mode of Repentance." Get into the habit of repenting throughout the day; because we never know who we may have insulted or if we have sinned. Learn to give thanks to Jesus Christ, love yourself and others.

Accepting Jesus Christ

Deuteronomy 4:29-31; Hosea 10:12-13; Exodus 2;

Exodus 12:40-42; 2 Peter 3:9;

Luke 13:3-5; Romans 10:9; Isaiah 64:4

Choose Repentance

Exodus 12

Unlike men, Jesus Christ is not slack concerning his promises. If he said he would forgive you then, it is best to receive his Word. He is not a man that he should lie, and therefore will not delay, and in his appointed time, he will deliver you out of bondage. He has the power to turn around your current situation. The appointed time for deliverance is, according to God’s timing. For instance, it took the Children of Israel four hundred and thirty years to travel from Ramses to Succoth; in the end, the LORD brought them out of Egypt. A land that caused great affliction and the Lord heard the groanings of the Children of Israel. Jesus knows the cries of his sheep and sees the oppression wherewith they endure. He remembers the covenant that was established with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. To rid the Children of Israel out of bondage and redeem them with a stretched out arm and with excellent judgment.

The Lord keeps his promise, and we ought to wait for his set time and not that of our own. He will not fail because he is not slack concerning his promise. Therefore, you must choose repentance and wait for your change. When you are called to repentance, accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. When you receive him,