Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Be Still Conference 2018

"The Lord said, "If you will just be still, I will touch you." --Pastor Keisha Battle Spivey


On Friday evening, I had the incredible opportunity to travel with some amazing friends to a Woman's Conference for the weekend. It was my prayer that God quiet my mind from all lingering responsibilities, clear the distractions and allow me to enjoy the present on another level.  He did just that and tons more.

Before I arrived to the location where we were to meet, I ate a bag of caramel creme candy to subdue the nervous energy. Maybe that wasn't such a great idea, considering that I talked the entire trip. I found myself being extremely chatty for no apparent reason but maybe I was on a "sugar rush!" Finally, I was living out loud and it felt amazing! I cruised way outside my comfort zone and stepped completely out the box. I wanted to experience life on my own terms, without restriction for a change! I desperately needed the mental break. My emotional baggage was weighing me down but few knew. I'm sure my upbeat energy wouldn't give sign of the inner turmoil. I didn't retreat to the mask but I didn't allow the storm to drown me either. I knew God would take care of the struggles, if I kept my mind and heart intentionally focused on him.

The "Be Still Women's Conference" proved to be a life-transforming game changer. All the pieces of broken ligaments became one again. There weren't any distractions and I was in the correct posture to receive God's best. My hands were empty and available, so he poured like a flood. My spirit was filled to capacity, my soul was on overdrive and my grateful attitude replenished every ounce of lack and voids. There wasn't a need that remained unmet. His grace was more than sufficient. It filled every dry place of emptiness with an abundance of never ending milk and honey.

I witnessed lives changing, sisterhoods forming, and strongholds being loosed. We all came expecting and God delivered. We showed up for each other and He gave us more than our fair portion. He doubled it. We went full throttle into a powerful purpose-driven message of "Be Still and Know" to "Barren, No Longer- Trust Again." Then we heard life testimonies of women's moments of being still.

After lunch, we were filled, spiritually and physically beyond capacity. We were in awe of God's presence. We knew, without doubt, we had been changed from the inside out. We were ready to walk into our new season. The excitement was more than obvious. Burdens were lifted. The water was troubled and we were totally committed for the kingdom journey ahead.
I dare not try to tell it all. Words can't even capture my heart's capacity of the love that overflowed.

Our hugs grew tighter.

Our faith grew stronger.

Our love conquered all doubts, insecurities, and hesitation.

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
-Psalm 46:10

Monday, January 22, 2018

From His Promises to Your Purpose

"Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple."

--1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (ESV)

Last week, I couldn't seem to shake a dormant sense of heaviness. I wasn't in a chronic state of worry, but there wasn't much genuine peace either. In the back of my mind, there was something missing that I couldn't put my finger on. I grew increasingly frustrated because I'm typically, pretty much disciplined regarding goals. However, I couldn't put one foot in front of the other to save my life. I knew it was a practical step that I was overthinking but it didn't make the process proceed any easier.

Normally, restless energy sends me into a "whirlwind of new projects" but my plate was full. I didn't have room to take on anything else, because I made some firm commitments that I was determined to see through without much distraction. To be honest, "my brain" felt like it was running out of room. I wasn't using what was already stored, to some degree. (lol)

I didn't realize God was already working behind the scenes. I met with a friend to discuss some potential writing projects, over coffee, and our conversation turned into a mini health and well-being seminar.  As she talked about the research she had done, the light bulb in my brain went off. I knew what she was talking about because I lived it!  I needed the warm, friendly reminder. As she sat across from me, dressed in athletic gear, my spirit was troubled. What was my real reason for the continued disobedience through lack of action?

When I meet with my mentor, my mind was on overload. I couldn't form a complete thought, let alone a complete sentence. Everything that I proceeded to say aloud, God interrupted. I was incoherent, my words didn't make much sense.  Every word that departed from my lips was wasted energy!  It just wasn't that important. I was trying to hold onto to places, things, and people that weren't assigned to go the distance with me. My heart wanted to mourn the process of elimination but my head was fighting back with the ounce of sense I had remaining. I've always had an innovative, spirit but I didn't realize how deeply rooted my attraction to tradition had become. I didn't like repetition, but I wasn't too fond of change either. Wait! What? The self-help guru had finally come to the end of herself. This season of my life required a mandatory sifting of outdated principles that no longer served present-day purpose.

As I drove away from the second meeting, I felt that I had taken advantage of this appointment with useless excuses. Once my words landed in the air, they appeared like a stench of stale cigarette smoke. Physically, I kept choking, like I was in a crowded room of dust mites that sent my allergies into overdrive. I was the problem! I became so comfortable losing that I didn't recognize what winning looked like. My focus was drowning in the despair ditch. I kept climbing up but slid right back down the muddy slope.

I needed a guided meditation activity to dump the "mental junk" I was carrying. I slipped the CD in that I received from my mentor. At first, the title didn't speak directly to my spirit. I was like, great, another assignment! As Pastor Brady started teaching, I promise God took the drivers seat, cause I don't remember if the light was green and didn't notice that I was sitting outside in my aunt's driveway already. Her words were giving me new life!

As I sat at my aunt's dinner table to eat, I couldn't put my friend's manuscript down. I read twenty five pages before I realized my food was getting cold. God definitely orchestrated these encounters. My spirit was bubbling over. I needed to deal with me! The excuses sounded like a broken record and I was getting on my own nerves. God sealed his work with, "It is finished. I've already done my part!"

"Do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward." --Hebrews 10:35 (NKJV)

I planned to spend the weekend, knocking out the manuscript and starting on some projects but I got distracted by family obligations. I was a little annoyed, because I already struggle with time management, so "strategic planning" was at the top of my goal list for 2018. My daily planner was becoming a challenge because planning my time was becoming a burden. My on-call schedule kept shifting me from scheduled personal commitments to random mandatory obligations. No wonder, I suffered from Chronic Fatigue, and "balance" was an ongoing weakness.

On the way to the gym this morning, God shifted my mindset into "bootcamp mode!" I couldn't afford to give anymore of my time or attention to other people's issues. I was physically drowning, trying to save everyone else. Yes, God was my lifeline, but I was swimming backwards in the wrong direction. Every time I got closer to the finish line, I kept turning back around trying to help distressed faces from getting untangled in the enemy's same trap. I no longer felt my age. I felt much older. I was physically tired of being mentally tired!

God referred me back to the CD that my mentor gave me. When I popped it back in, I heard Pastor Sheryl Brady say, "You are the gatekeeper of your mind!" Wow! In all my understanding, I hadn't thought of that, practically. I wanted to travel back to all these intellectual concepts drawn out by Stephen Covey in the, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." I wasted time, trying to make it into a complicated prioritization matrix.

My "help" was in the Word, not the world. (Finally, dumps "self-help" books!)

Last night, as I participated in a self-actualization quiz in my Be Intentional Online Class, I realized an uncomfortable truth. Being passion driven will not deliver the desired results without perseverance. Are you checking in for you or everyone else?

Honor God with your continued commitment of time to self-development and personal growth. Dedicate His promises to your purpose! Align your spirit with His word.

"Passion and perseverance applied to the priorities and the goals that YOU say are vital to you being smack dab in the middle of God's will and becoming all that He has ordained you to be for HIS glory." ---Pastor Keisha Spivey

Friday, January 19, 2018

“Team-No Excuses”

I’ve been dragging my feet from overwhelming responsibilities, goal-oriented activities and family centered tasks. I had everything I needed for a full force take off, but I couldn’t find my rhythm. No matter what I tried, my “center” was out of balance. It literally takes all day to do-nothing! I’m always busy but have failed to produce anything meaningful for my personal satisfaction.

Today, I was determined to spend sometime in meditation to explore the root of my distractions. Some reasons were obvious, but others, not so much. I secretly wondered, if I was unrealistic about the outside demands I placed on myself. I felt the urgent sense of NOW in my spirit but my energy was suffering.

God spoke, but was I listening or was I thrown off by the mountain of surrounding family issues? I just learned how to separate my pain from others. It was way past time to exit their story and to start living my own! What was the hold up? Did I feel guilty about moving on? Maybe, but I didn’t have another decade to figure it out. I was already behind schedule!

Fresh manna dropped daily, so what was the problem? God said, “you’re trying too hard!” I wasn’t fully committed—to me! I failed to give my undivided attention to personal projects, because they still hadn’t become a top priority. Everyone else claimed my attention.

Well, after two phenomenal back to back meetings today, I literally, felt the Earth shake underneath me. God downloaded and I pulled double duty, listening attentively.

Sometimes, all it takes is for us to say things aloud and God will send immediate correction. 

I rambled from a past place of failures with doubt and insecurities present.

I tried to justify stagnation with blind excuses.

I refused to receive what I needed because I still felt defeated.

I attempted to find reason to terminate the process before it got started. 

I was afraid to be stretched.

During my reflection and meditation on tonight, God revealed some of my ugly truths. He showed me a vision of a lady that went to the emergency room for acute treatment, but she turned the “waiting room” into her new, comfortable residence. 

But who goes to the hospital to hide from the physician? 

In fact, who asks God for help but then refuses treatment!

It’s time to move from excuses to execution.

For the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.”

—-Proverbs 3:26






Thursday, January 18, 2018

When Dreams Speak


“Now Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more.” -Genesis 37:5

I’ve always been a nomad, reaching for destiny, within my clouded “dreams”. I carried the scattered pieces, around in my head, but I failed to see the visions manifest. Somewhere the translation got lost between the blueprint from my head to my heart and then collapsed onto empty hands. Needless to say, I searched for purpose and fulfillment in all the wrong places.

Like Joseph, I shared my dreams with comrades who were not interested in forming alliances, so they secretly counted me out.

Sometimes, I wonder if Joseph hadn’t told his “dreams” to his brothers, would they still have thrown him into the pit and sold him into slavery? But then, he wouldn’t have the chance to rise from slave to ruler.

Perhaps, our “dreams” have caused us to experience some unnecessary hardships. However, God always uses those same setbacks to propel us forward right into our destiny.
So when your “dreams” speak, please take heed. God is tugging at your heart. He is increasing the friction of discomfort for an ordained reason.

It’s not always about the “hardships,” but how you respond to them. Like Joseph, keep your personal integrity in tact. Remember with God’s present help, any situation can be used for good, even when others intend it for evil. Joseph was rejected, kidnapped, enslaved and imprisoned but he never folded.

Joseph’s story didn’t just end with the “dream”. He was made ruler of Egypt. In fact, his faithfulness affected his entire family. He saved their lives.

Don’t let your “dreams” lie dormant due to hardships, crisis or even disobedience.
Your “dream” might serve as the missing key for some unanswered prayers.





Monday, January 15, 2018

The Identity Trap

I wish I could tell you that - I am a Christian disciple that has it all together; however, I don't. To try to paint this elaborate picture of a "perfect journey" serves no real purpose, because it is not my truth.

I miss the mark.
I mess up.
I fall short.
I have weak moments.

I don't always manage my emotions well. Sometimes I fall victim to the lies of the enemy by magnifying insecurities. Sometimes I still seek outside approval for validation.

I fall down,
I fail daily,
BUT I GET BACK UP!

On Friday morning, I allowed a situation to get under my skin and take me back to a past, familiar place of rage! Actually, in all honesty, it threw "my energy" off balance for the entire weekend. I was treated harsh and unfair by someone in a public place. Every ounce of flesh wanted to rise up in me but I said nothing! I was afraid to open my mouth, because I was terrified of my reaction. Although I'm learning to be more proactive rather than reactive, I wasn't fully prepared for the test. Truth be told, I wasn't looking for a battle on today! I didn't want to "fight" to be heard, seen or respected. I was tired of fighting! Warfare had been a way of life for far too long. I came to this place of business ,looking to be treated fairly with dignity and compassion but I received the exact opposite. With all the studying, meditating and reading I'd been doing, I don't know why this attack caught me off guard but it did.

It felt like someone had literally shook my 2018 foundation to the core. I've been intentionally preparing to give my best, do my best and be the best me (within my God given capabilities.) I know the devil was furious because my day proceeded in the same direction. Other things, out of the ordinary happened. The devil wasn't letting up! Funny thing is, we wouldn't allow another human to put us through this much distress but we pull back from the devil. Honestly, he was kicking my butt and I was allowing it to happen. Once again, I was distracted by his shenanigans. I took my eyes off of God and fell prey to his nonsense. I had the power within to defeat him, but I entertained his foolishness.

Sunday, I was late to worship service. I didn't even realize, I was subconsciously stewing over the same Friday mishap. I walked in the Sanctuary with a heavy sense of "numbness." I decided that people were not going to move me anymore. I was worn out! I was tired of trying to find a rightful place, a comfortable fit, and I no longer cared to bring the bubbly personality along for the ride.

I would retreat back into the background, with my hardened outer shell, because I didn't want to be rejected by anyone else. I would resort back into survival. Thriving required too much work!

On this morning, I skipped my normal routine and collapsed right back into that funky mood. Actually, I tried to defend the offense against me. Somehow, I tried to rationalize the mistreatment, as if I deserved to suffer. I beat myself up over it repeatedly. I wasn't coping, I was running!

BUT GOD.....is so very faithful! As I was laying around moping, I received a phone call for a lunch invitation. We had some church, right there, in the restaurant. Self-reflection nuggets were falling from the sky into my lap. My mood drastically shifted! We didn't spend this time negatively reflecting over the situation. We addressed the "why" so that I will be well prepared in the future.

In fact, it was my decision to not return to the establishment, where the incident occurred, but God laid something totally different on my heart. I am no longer defeated by the enemy, so there's no reason to quit. I don't have to FIGHT this battle because it's already won! I can walk confidently, through those same double doors with His authority, resting firmly on me.

Tonight in Bible Study, the spirit of conviction hit hard, because I realized I was guilty as charged. I fell for the "identity trap." I no longer needed to be apart of this invisible rivalry with the devil. My place was already solidified in God. I already had the victory. I just needed to learn to walk in it.

I leave you with something the facilitator said on tonight that made me silently scream within,

"What takes you from a place of receiving (from God) to a seat of deceiving (from the enemy)?"

Don't fall for the "identity trap," it's just a set up to take you back into the wilderness. The enemy desires you to withdraw from intercessors and retreat back to isolation, so that he can whisper false beliefs in your ear and to separate you from God's truth.

Don't repeatedly subject yourself to the same pain, same failure, and same heartache through disobedience. Stay girded and covered in HIM.

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Friday, January 12, 2018

Closed Legs Do Get Fed

I’m not out hear screaming from the rooftop that I’m celibate to be seen. However, it does make for “uncomfortable conversation” at times, not self discomfort, but I always stumble upon people that want to biblically oppose my position. They try to argue my decision of abstinence, like it’s up for public debate or something. I never feel compelled to justify my position. To each it’s own, our convictions aren’t universal.

The main opposition comes from those that don’t view “premarital sex” as a sin. I assume, in their opinion, biblical scriptures don’t serve as evidence or the interpretations are highly controversial. I’m not sure, what the reasons maybe, but I’ve had this conversation with lots of single women and was quite shocked at the various beliefs, as Christian believers.

As a society, we think openly discussing “sex” is taboo. We tend to pass judgment on the rising epidemic of teen pregnancies, without exploring the root of the problem. I was a teenage mother that was never properly taught to view my body as a sacred temple. I didn’t have the spiritual foundation to make the best choices. I was too broken to convince myself that I was worthy of so much more. Low self-esteem played a major part in giving the most intimate parts of me away, without ever realizing, there was so much more that I was missing.

I never knew what a healthy sexual relationship looked like. Most of my high school peers made sex seem like an amicable exchange for some tangible thing. As if, you had to “give” in order to “receive.” Like God designed our feminine parts as a bargaining tool.

I’m here to tell you, “closed legs do get fed by God, not man.” Your temple is sacred and not meant to be apart of some superficial barter system. God has exceeded every want and need in my life without compromising. I don’t have to freely give away my body in exchange for intimacy.

Some falsely view celibacy as a declaration of not wanting a spouse. Wrong! I’m not over here, pretending that I don’t desire to be married, but I choose to honor God with my obedience to keep my legs closed. I’ve had some experiences with “unwanted soul ties” and it’s definitely not worth it! Trust me, “soul ties” keep you in Egypt! You don’t belong there!

Regardless of your personal beliefs or convictions, I’m not passing judgment, but I stand firm on my beliefs. I think it’s a huge disservice to God, not to teach young women the value in waiting! Don’t condemn the actions without addressing the root. There is a overwhelming need for positive role models and mentors throughout all ages of life. You don’t need a mic or a title to make a difference. Be the example that’s needed and teach the truth!

Don’t be intimidated by taking a firm stance because societal norms has made “premarital sex” into a prerequisite for marriage. It’s not controversial to stand on biblical principles.

I allowed a live-in boyfriend to occupy my bed before marriage in the presence of my teenage daughter. (Huge mistake) We eventually got married but the seeds had already been planted, that “shacking” was acceptable. Now, to this day, her concept of shacking has been tainted by my corrupt unintentional actions. My witness isn’t credible in her eyes because I was guilty of doing the same.
Lord, I thank you for growth. When you know better, you do better. I will not expose my grandson to that lifestyle. I will teach him, as well as others, the importance of waiting!

Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.”——1 Corinthians 6:18

The Word is the word, all by itself, without Modern Day societal justification. There is no gray area!











Tuesday, January 9, 2018

After the Storm

I enjoyed the “stillness” of our few, snowy days, but I was ecstatic to welcome warmer temperatures back. I woke up, before dawn as usual, but I did something outside the norm. I didn’t sprint out of bed and start my normal routine. I laid completely still and thanked God. Life hasn’t been perfect; but the good moments, definitely, outweigh the bad. I talked to God, till I fell back asleep. I assumed, I hit the snooze button, cause I didn’t wake up again till the phone rang.

Oh my! My daughter called to say that my grandson was out of school for the day. Lord, help me! This would prove to be an interesting one. It would throw a monkey wrench into my schedule. My nine o’clock meeting would require me to rush him to my mom’s and juggle somethings around. I began mentally readjusting my schedule, when I heard the pitter patter of two, familiar feet.

My grandson was up, ready for breakfast and I hadn’t even jumped in the shower yet. Panic crept in. I allowed my morning routine to drift off course and now it was catch up time. My to-do-list was planned to near perfection but God said, “Be Still!” I cancelled my morning meeting and allowed my day to go much slower. I cooked my grandson’s favorite, homemade pancakes, got some work done and when we headed out God said, “pause again!”

God interrupted the regular programmed schedule for His good. I stopped at the park to take a brisk walk and allow my grandson to ride his bike. Being outdoors does something supernatural for my mental health. Of course, God already knew that.

My mind was a bursting cloud and creative masterpiece with every step. I thought about everything under the sun. My grandson was so glad to be outside, his bicycle was an adventure in itself, to occupy his restlessness.

Today, was like a day after the storm...
Quiet, relaxing and full of new life.
The presence of sunlight after the storm is truly refreshing.
Lord, I thank you for the light!

“Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”—Psalm 34:8



Monday, January 8, 2018

A New Chapter Begins

  Search for Significance Women Bible Study Begins.........

This bright, yellow room provided the perfect setting for the "expectant women" that were greeted by warm, familiar smiles. There weren't any nonchalant, dismissive looks; side-eyes given; or shade throwing because we were all here, for the same purpose! We didn't have to wonder, guess or assume the roles of each, cause God had already set the atmosphere. There weren't any title divisions, power struggles or hidden agendas presented. We came "expecting" to receive all God's promises, without distraction.

Well, there was one small distraction, a moist, lemon pound cake whispered my name from afar. Hey, I can only be me! Lol

With the beginning of this new chapter, there weren’t any butterflies lingering, apprehension or uneasiness. I was right where God needed me to be. Here we were, right back in the "birthing station" for round two. We've all been talking about this Monday night for quite sometime, and I gotta admit, it felt really good to be in the midst of these intercessors

Look out world, God is doing something truly amazing in the lives of these mighty women.

"For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them." ---Matthew 18:20



*Everyone not pictured above that attended for respect of privacy*

Sunday, January 7, 2018

F-e-a-r Can’t Hold Me


I recall reading in a health journal, the acronym for fear, “false evidence appearing real.” Wooh, can I relate! I know a thing or two about over preparing, training excessively, and working twice as hard, without ample rest and still felt “inadequate.” Unrealistic expectations can become a whirlwind of mixed emotions for an extremist personality type. It will literally drive them to a cliffhanger of unfulfillment because, success isn’t attainable with a defeated mindset.

Three lessons I’ve learned about “fear:”

“Fear” drains the life out of you. You won’t take pleasure in a task that you’re obsessing over. It takes the fun out of it! When you’re overly concerned with mistakes, you fail to enjoy the process and you reach exhaustion more frequently. Fear can also cause chronic illnesses.

“Fear” stifles your creative ability. You won’t reach your highest potential with limited vision. Pastor Spivey, says all the time, “You get what you expect!” How can you expect anything that you fail to reproduce?

“Fear” is the culprit that destroys the harvest. It’s a permanent, future placeholder, because potential never meets purpose. It keeps you waiting, stagnant and wishing but never reaping!

“Fear” is an outdated tactic that the enemy uses to keep you distracted from God’s best.

I dare you to tap into your unlimited potential.
I dare you to give birth to your purpose in this season.
I dare you to G-E-T U-P & G-O!!!!

Psalm 34:4
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”

Friday, January 5, 2018

Get Out The Way



It takes an incredible “act of faith” to step out on the unknown, but that’s exactly what God did—pushed me right out of the nest. I extended my stay, way beyond the appointed time. My wings were ready, but I secretly clipped them, so I could remain still.

I’d been comfortably nested for years, while focused on the “lack of my own hands,” but failed to trust the real provider. I was so keyed in on my inabilities that I refused to take the first step. It was just too scary! What if I failed? Never once realized, that I was equipped to succeed!

I’ve always known my life purpose was tied to the ministry of “service,” but I failed to develop that hidden potential. I was afraid of rejection. I was afraid to be seen or even heard. I didn’t like attention because it came with an army or critics, including the biggest one within.

How would I ever help anyone, if I refused to help myself? 

I ran into a former high school classmate at the gym. We briefly talked about life, goals and ambitions. The life, he spoke into me, made my heart warm and fuzzy! He planted a seed that I kept close. He saw in me, what I refused to acknowledge. Being around other positive people always made me feel like I could accomplish anything; but then, in the confines of home, I remained stagnant and afraid.

It’s never been an inconvenience for me to jump at the chance to serve others. My problem is that I felt unworthy of self-care. It seemed pretty selfish, since others had more struggles than my shallow complaints.

Maybe, I secretly became addicted to the struggle, because that’s all I’ve ever known. I still feel convicted about treating myself to an occasional five dollar cup of Starbucks coffee. I even sleep in spurts cause “rest” appears unrealistic with so much to do!

I challenge you in the New Year to make “self” a priority and not an inconvenience. You can’t serve others from a place of lack.

Rest.
Recharge.
Reignite the fire within.


God has ordained you to “soar” with the eagles. You never belonged in the chicken coop. 

It stinks. 
It’s crowded. 
It doesn’t accommodate your calling.

2 Corinthians 6:17 says, “Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean and I will receive you.”

Thursday, January 4, 2018

First Snow Funnies

“Certain things catch your eye, but pursue only those that capture the heart.”
—Ancient Indian Proverb

I fell asleep on the couch, with the television blasting and lights on. I was way past exhausted. I’d been sitting in front of a computer screen, working non stop for hours. Maybe there were some imaginary “electromagnetic waves” that zapped my brain cells with a case of silliness, because I woke up in a goofy mood. 

I woke up, laughing about the video, I recorded on yesterday. It was still funny to me! Why? Because it was way outside of my comfort zone, and I had fun doing it. I literally cracked myself up!For the first time in years, I didn’t care that it wasn’t perfect. I didn’t care that I had no idea of what I was doing, I just enjoyed the process!

My aunt called to tell me that the snow was still expected. She knows I never watch the news, it’s just way too depressing. Anyway, I peeked through the blinds and to my surprise, it was already here. Ha, imagine that! Here I am, walking around, enjoying my own company and God sent snow!

It’s been a long time since I pranced around the house, enjoying life...just because!

Laughter is indeed, the best natural remedy for the soul.

Never mind me, I’m just relaxing and enjoying our “first snow” in NC, with my fuzzy socks, pajamas and coffee mug.

Life ain’t perfect, but it’s rather sweet on my end today. Hope you make the best of this beautiful, blessed day!






Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Dig Up The Negative Seeds

"So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”  
  --Isaiah 55:11

I eagerly hopped out of bed this morning, and sat at my desk for my early morning routine. I like to start my day off with devotional, meditation, and prayer time--Oh and let's not forget the coffee! This morning wasn't any different. With all the talk about the anticipated bad weather, I thought about staying indoors to get some writing, reading and studying done. Well, I stayed indoors yesterday, and while it was a somewhat productive day, my mind began to entertain some negative energy out of nowhere.

In Battlefield of the Mind, Joyce Myer says, "Idle time is the devil's playground!" Boy, was she right! I intentionally started to dig up the negative seeds and speak peace into existence with my God given authority.  I started a decluttering project that grew bigger than I imagined, so I stopped. My actions were interrupted by the memory of a full voicemail box and phone calls I needed to return.  My to-do-list was overwhelming. Uh-oh!!  The residue of yesterday, started to spill over into today. I started to dig up those negative seeds once again and shift the atmosphere!

I needed to get out of this house, so I meet with my Women's Bible Study group. God is so faithful, because I got just what I needed. The facilitator chose the perfect message for our weekly discussion, "Attitude Determines Destiny." We jumped right into this discussion, without any hesitation. Maybe we all felt a little bogged down from the holidays and needed a "pick me up." I rarely give away other people's nuggets, but out of our collaboration came some noteworthy reminders.

Ten things to shift your "negative thinking:"

 1.     Stop criticizing.
 2.     Cease the derogatory speaking.
 3.     Change how you "respond" to other's energy.
 4.     Let your light shine before others.
 5.     Intentionally, feed your spirit daily with positivity.
 6.     Stop claiming the negative.
 7.     Don't receive Satan's seeds.
 8.     Walk, the process out with accountability.
 9.     Detach from the baggage, burdens and strongholds.
10.    Be proactive rather than reactive

I'm sure this list sounds familiar. It's an awesome reminder, as you make preparations to set the tone for your upcoming year. Don't focus on the problems, rather speak the solutions. I'm so glad that my "accountability circle" loves me enough to equip me with the truth.








Tuesday, January 2, 2018

Be The Flow

Don't just go with the natural flow of "daily living." Your faith walk requires that you adjust your sails, according to the wind velocity.

You wouldn't plan to wear shorts, tanks and flip flops, outside in the snow for obvious reasons. You wouldn't plan a family picnic outdoors, in the midst of a thunderstorm.

When God chooses you to deliver, don't expect others to handle your baby with same care as you. In fact, you would NEVER hand your newborn over to a stranger with a chronic cough and lit cigarette.

 Protecting your "spiritual baby" is equally as important.

Don't be intimidated by the critics.

Don't respond to the doubters.

Don't measure progress by lack of feedback.

Don't yield to competitive sprits.

In other words, "Don't go with the flow, BE THE FLOW!"

You will deliver as expected, so don't allow distractions to disrupt your momentum. Sometimes lack of support can micmic past, unhealed, childhood rejections. I promise you, it's the enemies' same old tactic to terminate your pregnancy. Don't fall for the 2017 nonsense.

Stepping into the New Year requires a new level of faith, dedication and determination. You don't fall over, each time the wind blows.

You prepare,

stand flat footed on your solid foundation (God),

and proceed ahead (without doubt)

If you don't believe in your vision, how can God trust you with the provision?

Pull up in 2018 with a BIGGER level of FAITH! All gas & no brakes!

Reminder:

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength. --Philippians 4:13


The Glass Ceiling of Fear

"You can't "prop up" a person that refuses to stand ."-me Recently, I asked one of my " homeboys " to re...