Ladies....something to think about! My personal favorite: Don't be so available!
You can't be a wife until you get your own life!
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Friday, April 13, 2012
Let them Walk
Anybody you have to convince to be in your life, does not belong. Let them walk! T.D Jakes is one of my favorites ministers. I hope this encourages you!
People of the Past
Have you ever gone through something where it seems like no one whose around you now understands you like someone from your past? And when I say people from the past, I'm referring to people who knew you before you really knew yourself. The type of person who could tell what you were thinking by the expression on your face. The type of person who could communicate with you only with a certain glance in your eyes. But also the type of person that really wasn't good for you.
I'm not calling anyone a bad person but there were some people we all had to step back from when we began to get serious in our relationship with God. Maybe there was some romantic interest or maybe there wasn't but I had a dream last night that made me think of this. And I've been there.
I hate to say it but many of those old relationships that surface are a big old distraction. I believe we each move through life in seasons. That's why a transition into a new season can be a bit uncomfortable but it's inevitable. And to be honest, we can't take everyone with us, especially those relationships of the past.
Of course for many people, the past may pop up and come back around but we have to have the discernment to know what steps to take when that happens. Unfortunately a lot of people seek comfort from people from their past because like I said, they KNOW them. But we lie to ourselves when we believe they can offer us something that isn't already readily available to us.
Soul ties are a real thing and can be some of the hardest forms of bondage to break free from. So when God has given you the strength to step away, APPRECIATE IT. DON'T walk back to it when you've already been freed from it. Seeking comfort and acceptance from a person outside of God's will is a trap to get your heart entangled into a season you are already familiar with. Without wisdom and discernment it'll cause you to retrace your footsteps. I've always heard that when you don't learn the lesson the 1st time, God WILL send it back around. Save yourself the backtracking.
I think people should be more open about soul ties. So many people stay in relationships for YEARS while being abused, used, manipulated, disrespected, etc., and that's because their souls will not release them. Of course everyone's relationships haven't ended that way but there was a reason it didn't work in the first place right? Let it be. I have always been told that if you have to hide it, don't do it. Seek accountability and accept what those around you say. Fear of the truth is usually conviction but ultimately can save you from deeper heartache, invested time, and disappointment.
I can only imagine how God feels knowing that He gave so many people the grace and mercy to be able to break free of a bad relationship only to have them resurface into their lives.
When we make up in our minds, "Not my will but Your will," I believe that's when things line up into place. Everyone wants someone who comforts them and knows them like no one else. But you NEED to experience that before you seek PEOPLE because God has already made Himself available to provide us with all that and more. When we seek others for that, we pretty much are telling Him that He is not enough. And from the depths of my heart, I can guarantee you that He's MORE than enough. But He can only give you what you allow Him to.
When you know better, you should do better and God holds US accountable based off of what we know. So it doesn't matter what others are doing. We know to seek Him before making decisions and we know to seek Him before releasing our hearts. Therefore if we don't, we face the consequences. I hope this spoke to someone's heart as I am not aiming to condemn. But to encourage each person reading this to remember that God got you to where you are and freed you from your past and it's only His grace that can keep you and ultimately carry you further. Sometimes the enemy is really the "inner me." Keep it moving!
I'm not calling anyone a bad person but there were some people we all had to step back from when we began to get serious in our relationship with God. Maybe there was some romantic interest or maybe there wasn't but I had a dream last night that made me think of this. And I've been there.
I hate to say it but many of those old relationships that surface are a big old distraction. I believe we each move through life in seasons. That's why a transition into a new season can be a bit uncomfortable but it's inevitable. And to be honest, we can't take everyone with us, especially those relationships of the past.
Of course for many people, the past may pop up and come back around but we have to have the discernment to know what steps to take when that happens. Unfortunately a lot of people seek comfort from people from their past because like I said, they KNOW them. But we lie to ourselves when we believe they can offer us something that isn't already readily available to us.
Soul ties are a real thing and can be some of the hardest forms of bondage to break free from. So when God has given you the strength to step away, APPRECIATE IT. DON'T walk back to it when you've already been freed from it. Seeking comfort and acceptance from a person outside of God's will is a trap to get your heart entangled into a season you are already familiar with. Without wisdom and discernment it'll cause you to retrace your footsteps. I've always heard that when you don't learn the lesson the 1st time, God WILL send it back around. Save yourself the backtracking.
I think people should be more open about soul ties. So many people stay in relationships for YEARS while being abused, used, manipulated, disrespected, etc., and that's because their souls will not release them. Of course everyone's relationships haven't ended that way but there was a reason it didn't work in the first place right? Let it be. I have always been told that if you have to hide it, don't do it. Seek accountability and accept what those around you say. Fear of the truth is usually conviction but ultimately can save you from deeper heartache, invested time, and disappointment.
I can only imagine how God feels knowing that He gave so many people the grace and mercy to be able to break free of a bad relationship only to have them resurface into their lives.
When we make up in our minds, "Not my will but Your will," I believe that's when things line up into place. Everyone wants someone who comforts them and knows them like no one else. But you NEED to experience that before you seek PEOPLE because God has already made Himself available to provide us with all that and more. When we seek others for that, we pretty much are telling Him that He is not enough. And from the depths of my heart, I can guarantee you that He's MORE than enough. But He can only give you what you allow Him to.
When you know better, you should do better and God holds US accountable based off of what we know. So it doesn't matter what others are doing. We know to seek Him before making decisions and we know to seek Him before releasing our hearts. Therefore if we don't, we face the consequences. I hope this spoke to someone's heart as I am not aiming to condemn. But to encourage each person reading this to remember that God got you to where you are and freed you from your past and it's only His grace that can keep you and ultimately carry you further. Sometimes the enemy is really the "inner me." Keep it moving!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
#TheEndZone Update
AWESOME UPDATE:
This is an update from what I discussed in this post.
I'm pleased to announce that my church, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries, is now officially debt free!!! Praise GOD!
We raised 1.6 million dollars in 3 months and one week! The church is now a debt free facility, as well as other property that we have accumulated.
GOD is so awesome! I'm not here to brag on my church, but to brag on GOD. If any of you sowed anything into this movement, just EXPECT TO RECEIVE! From God's house to your house! If you take care of His stuff, he most certainly will take care of yours!
Too many times we try to figure it out on our own. We essentially try to be GOD in some situations. But how will you experience His power and His faithfulness if you don't let him in and allow Him to do His job? Be still, pray, and watch Him work miracles in your life. He's just waiting on you.
And remember: Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
This is an update from what I discussed in this post.
I'm pleased to announce that my church, Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries, is now officially debt free!!! Praise GOD!
GOD is so awesome! I'm not here to brag on my church, but to brag on GOD. If any of you sowed anything into this movement, just EXPECT TO RECEIVE! From God's house to your house! If you take care of His stuff, he most certainly will take care of yours!
Too many times we try to figure it out on our own. We essentially try to be GOD in some situations. But how will you experience His power and His faithfulness if you don't let him in and allow Him to do His job? Be still, pray, and watch Him work miracles in your life. He's just waiting on you.
And remember: Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Healthy Options
Ok so this healthy journey is continuing. I went grocery shopping today to get a few items that I needed. (Oatmeal, chicken breast, veggies etc.) I found a recipe online for a low calorie Pulled Chicken BBQ Sandwich which is pretty much the same as pork BBQ but just with chicken.
Chicken is a healthier alternative to pork. And I LOVE BBQ sauce like nothing else! Anyway, I was looking at BBQ sauces and wanted to make sure I try my best to pick a healthier choice. While looking at the ingredients, I noticed something I've never noticed before. MOST BBQ sauce has a main ingredient of High Fructose Corn Syrup. According to the USDA, HFCS consists of 24% water, and the rest sugars. It's not good for you at all.
Every sauce that I picked up either had HFCS as it's first or second ingredient. After a little more research, I realized that most sauces including ketchup and liquid marinades are mostly made of HFCS. I wanted to cry lol But I found ONE that didn't have it at all! All natural Weber Real Molasses BBQ sauce has zero high fructose corn syrup in it. Of course it does have some sugars so you would need to eat it in moderation but it's better than the originals.
That was crazy to me. When I thought of HFCS, I thought of sodas and desserts but sauces? No clue. It's surprising what you'll find when you read labels.I've heard of people who have cut out sodas and they end up losing weight. Healthier choices are a bit more expensive but I think it's worth it.
Chicken is a healthier alternative to pork. And I LOVE BBQ sauce like nothing else! Anyway, I was looking at BBQ sauces and wanted to make sure I try my best to pick a healthier choice. While looking at the ingredients, I noticed something I've never noticed before. MOST BBQ sauce has a main ingredient of High Fructose Corn Syrup. According to the USDA, HFCS consists of 24% water, and the rest sugars. It's not good for you at all.
Every sauce that I picked up either had HFCS as it's first or second ingredient. After a little more research, I realized that most sauces including ketchup and liquid marinades are mostly made of HFCS. I wanted to cry lol But I found ONE that didn't have it at all! All natural Weber Real Molasses BBQ sauce has zero high fructose corn syrup in it. Of course it does have some sugars so you would need to eat it in moderation but it's better than the originals.
That was crazy to me. When I thought of HFCS, I thought of sodas and desserts but sauces? No clue. It's surprising what you'll find when you read labels.I've heard of people who have cut out sodas and they end up losing weight. Healthier choices are a bit more expensive but I think it's worth it.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
#TheEndZone
I think I've been neglecting to write about this, because I just don't know how to put this move of GOD into words. It's almost like one of those "you gotta see it for yourself" things to understand completely. But I'll try my best to get the point across.
There have been so many testimonies coming in, as a result of people sowing (giving) into this cause. Financial favor is everywhere. Bills are getting paid, jobs are being offered, and debt is literally being wiped away. A lot of folks are receiving checks in the mail, stating that they had been "paying too much." It's nothing but GOD just removing it. I can't wait to share my testimony, because I know there will be one. I'm believing for no more car note and for ALL my student loans to be paid off. I'm even believing to already cancel any future debt that may try to enter my life.
My church, Mt.Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries, located in Richmond VA has been heading up an awesome DEBT FREE campaign.
What does this mean?
The goal for our church this year was to pay the remaining balance on our existing building, which was $1.6 million. Several churches hold rallies, sell products, collect offerings, etc. to reach financial goals and/or to make provisions for a new building. However, this is unlike anything I've ever seen! This is an anointed move of God with the simple intention that "if you take care of God's stuff, He will take care of your stuff!"
God doesn't want us to be in debt. Debt is bondage. It can rule your life and force you to become a slave to the rituals and customs of the world. The world convinces us that credit cards are absolutely necessary, while we're paying double the amount of our purchases in interest. The world constantly persuades us to invest more in materials that depreciate in value, as opposed to engaging in the opposite (buying houses, property, stocks, etc.).
If we must owe anyone anything, it should only be to love them. (Romans 13:8)
My church has done two rallies since the first Sunday in February. There's only one more rally left coming up on this Sunday, April 1. If you have ANY debt that you're trying to cancel in your life, I would check this out. And of course, I understand that not all of our readers live in the Greater Richmond, VA area. But you can still get in on this as well.
There have been so many testimonies coming in, as a result of people sowing (giving) into this cause. Financial favor is everywhere. Bills are getting paid, jobs are being offered, and debt is literally being wiped away. A lot of folks are receiving checks in the mail, stating that they had been "paying too much." It's nothing but GOD just removing it. I can't wait to share my testimony, because I know there will be one. I'm believing for no more car note and for ALL my student loans to be paid off. I'm even believing to already cancel any future debt that may try to enter my life.
If you only have faith and believe that GOD can do it for you too, HE can! And sowing (giving) in general is your main ticket to getting out of debt. Let's face it. Your 9-5 job can only do so much. You would be working to the death, if you were expecting that job alone to somehow give you an ounce of financial freedom.
So, I'm petitioning you to give to this cause. This is GOD's cause, and He will take care of things near and dear to your heart as well.
I can't really put into words how EXCITED I am! You gotta be there, I guess. The environment in church feels so light to me now; I feel a heaviness has lifted itself. People are becoming debt free! They're starting to live in the freedom that God designed from the beginning.
Just imagine how your life would be with no bills. No more stress and scrambling for extra change and money. You could live the life you always imagined. Your creativity would soar; you would be a happier person, right?
Take a chance with this. Sow and believe. Tell God what you're believing Him to pay off. Find a way to get one of those bands pictured above. I think we will be selling them now. People are getting favor, just from being spotted with one of those bad boys!
Check out our site. You can give online, or come by for a visit. We also stream our services online at 9AM and 11:30AM. So tune in if you can! Thanks again for reading.
#TheEndZone = DEBT FREE
Money Problems
I'm SO overdue for this post by the way. Please forgive me.
Hopefully, if you haven't waited until the last minute to file your taxes, you have started receiving any sort of tax refunds that you are eligible for. I received my State ones last week, and I was super amped to see that envelope with my name on it. Finally! I was running on nearly "E" in regards to my available funds.
I had to monitor my spending habits very closely, because of the little bit I had to work with. It was kind of hard, mainly because I like to eat out and have fun. But when there's no money to accommodate those desires, I'm often left feeling like I'm living paycheck to paycheck. No bueno!
So when one of my refund checks came in the mail, there were many choices as to how I could dispose of it. I could go stock up on my spring wardrobe. I could go get that mani/pedi I've been wanting for awhile. I could go to the salon and get that honey blonde color put in my hair. I could finally join ShoeDazzle or JustFab to step my "grown woman" shoe game up. And of course, food! I could just go anywhere and not worry about the cost. Life would be sweeeetttt, living in pure materialistic bliss!
Or would it?
Why not put the extra money down on my car note? Or those wretched Sallie Mae student loans? Or pay my outstanding library fine? Or even start saving money for a change, instead of letting it burn a hole in my pocket?
But that's not how most people think. Debt is a commonplace occurrence in this day and age. This is the "microwave" generation; everything has to be instantaneous. Nobody wants to wait days, months, or even a year or two for something....if they can get it with a swipe of their credit card, just like that.
I'm so thankful that my parents "caught" me in my financial turmoil. I was in over my head in credit card debt last year, so much that I was missing my monthly payments. Somehow a message got on the house phone (my cell was the only number on the account) and my parents got involved in my secret mess. They ended up paying both of my credit cards off! Thank GOD! Stress over financial matters is no joke, and I would definitely still be in a rut...had it not been for my folks.
You may not be as fortunate as I was. You may be living from paycheck to paycheck, have a family to support, a mortgage and a car note, student loans, and dreaded credit card debt to pay. It probably feels like you're just going around in circles, in the dark with no lighted escape.
Like I stated earlier, I'm mad late with this post. But I'd like to make a proposal for you to get involved in an awesome DEBT FREE campaign going on right now in Richmond, VA!
Check out my next post for more info!
Hopefully, if you haven't waited until the last minute to file your taxes, you have started receiving any sort of tax refunds that you are eligible for. I received my State ones last week, and I was super amped to see that envelope with my name on it. Finally! I was running on nearly "E" in regards to my available funds.
So when one of my refund checks came in the mail, there were many choices as to how I could dispose of it. I could go stock up on my spring wardrobe. I could go get that mani/pedi I've been wanting for awhile. I could go to the salon and get that honey blonde color put in my hair. I could finally join ShoeDazzle or JustFab to step my "grown woman" shoe game up. And of course, food! I could just go anywhere and not worry about the cost. Life would be sweeeetttt, living in pure materialistic bliss!
Or would it?
Why not put the extra money down on my car note? Or those wretched Sallie Mae student loans? Or pay my outstanding library fine? Or even start saving money for a change, instead of letting it burn a hole in my pocket?
But that's not how most people think. Debt is a commonplace occurrence in this day and age. This is the "microwave" generation; everything has to be instantaneous. Nobody wants to wait days, months, or even a year or two for something....if they can get it with a swipe of their credit card, just like that.
I'm so thankful that my parents "caught" me in my financial turmoil. I was in over my head in credit card debt last year, so much that I was missing my monthly payments. Somehow a message got on the house phone (my cell was the only number on the account) and my parents got involved in my secret mess. They ended up paying both of my credit cards off! Thank GOD! Stress over financial matters is no joke, and I would definitely still be in a rut...had it not been for my folks.
You may not be as fortunate as I was. You may be living from paycheck to paycheck, have a family to support, a mortgage and a car note, student loans, and dreaded credit card debt to pay. It probably feels like you're just going around in circles, in the dark with no lighted escape.
Like I stated earlier, I'm mad late with this post. But I'd like to make a proposal for you to get involved in an awesome DEBT FREE campaign going on right now in Richmond, VA!
Check out my next post for more info!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Red Flags Part 2
I realized that there are so many RED FLAGS so I figured I'd break them up and write a Part 2 for Christian dating. Hopefully my big bro will finally contribute "Red Flags:The Male Edition" that I've been requesting for WEEKS! (Won't say any names *cough cough* Ty Francis) He'll get to it soon hopefully. We were talking about RED FLAGS this morning before church started and it inspired me to write these tonight.
Here's Part 2!
Here's Part 2!
- Everyone knows that first impressions are important. Most people put their best foot forward at the beginning especially the "first date." If he's not even at his best on the first date (picking up the check, opening the door, dressing/looking nice) then how will he act when he's comfortable?? RED FLAG
- If he NEVER takes the initiative when going places and the question is always "What do you wanna do?" RED FLAG Of course he should do something you'd enjoy but if he doesn't know what you like he should ask your friends/fam about possible ideas. Gotta be an initiator and take some decisions off YOUR hands!
- What is his financial status? Not saying he has to be making 6 figures but how does he handle what he does make? If he has zero financial goals AND no financial plan, RED FLAG
- If he exhibits feminine qualities (a little twist in his step, a weak wrist, rolling his eyes, smacking his mouth etc.) Enough said, RED FLAG lol Just run
- If he can't remember what he read and what he learned during his quiet time and it's a consistent occurrence, then why is he even reading the Bible? RED FLAG
- Not all women prefer the same speed of a relationship but if the guy is moving faster than you would like, "Day 1:You're the greatest girl I've ever met. Day 2: I love you. Day 3: You're my wife. etc." RED FLAG
- Does he keep his word? Do not date someone who has an issue keeping commitments! RED FLAG
- Evaluating who a person surrounds themselves with is a good indicator of how they're being influenced. If his friends are promiscuous drug dealers, then that's not a good sign RED FLAG
- How does he act in tempting situations? If you happen to find yourselves alone and temptation arises does he get up and run while yelling behind him that he'll call you tomorrow (Thumbs up!) Or allow his flesh to take over? Chances are if he can't resist temptation (Control his flesh) while you're dating, what would he do if you all are married and he's tempted at work or other places outside of your home by someone who isn't you? RED FLAG
- How do kids react to him? Kids always run up to me and grab my leg like they know me. I love it because I've heard they recognize good people. However, if kids run screaming in the opposite direction then that's a RED FLAG.
- Is he flirtatious? The last thing you need is someone who flirts with every girl they see. A man of God won't disrespect you that way. RED FLAG
- How does he handle conflict? Nothings worse than a man who has temper tantrums when things don't go his way. If he retreats to childlike behavior instead of mature conversations to find a resolution RED FLAG
- Is he more concerned about what you eat than what he eats? He orders you a salad while he eats ribs. Not cool. RED FLAG
- Does he keep the relationship alive? (Creative outings, activities, gifts that aren't necessarily expensive but thoughtful) If not, imagine how dull your relationship could be down the road. Gotta be creative, if not RED FLAG
- Is he open to your opinions? (I didn't like that shirt. You need a fresh hair cut.I don't think that's a good idea.) Or does he struggle with a spirit of offense? If you can't be honest with him then you can't have a real relationship RED FLAG
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Everything you could ever need
I was listening to a sermon from my bishop from 2008 (Before I even joined my church) and it was entitled Relationship. That sermon was AMAZING. All of the sermons are amazing but you know what I mean. He was talking about the importance of having a relationship with God because when all others fail, God will always be there.
It kind of brought me back to the way I used to be. I was a very emotionally driven teenager up until like twenty years old. I laugh now at the thought of it but I was a drama queen. I was one of those teenagers that was moody, impatient and all over the place lol But thank God for growth and maturity because I'm no longer moved by emotions.One thing that my bishop said was you have to die to your feelings. In 1 Corinthians 15 Paul said, "I die daily." Dying daily means to die to your fleshly tendencies and desires. Emotions will lead you all over the place.
What I loved most about that sermon was understanding the importance of leaning on God. Bishop was talking about seeking counsel. "I need help. I need advice. I need direction." And no one being able to provide it. I've been there and I can say that that provoked so much growth for me, physically and spiritually. At that moment when family didn't have the answers, friends didn't have the answers, church members, etc., when I thought no one had the answer, God had the answer! And that's exactly where He wanted me, leaning and depending on Him.
People are human so that means they will let you down at some point or another. And if your emotions rule over you, then you will be overwhelmed and easily offended. You ever hear someone say, "I'm offended?" Well offense is a CHOICE. Being angry, upset or resentful are all emotions that can easily peak their heads if others don't rise to expectations or if they say things or do things that let you down. But those very situations are being controlled by God to help you grow up. Not to be mean but you have to suck it up and keep moving. Who told you life was easy? It's not but it's possible.
When you've found yourself running around with what seems like no direction, that is an indicator that God is calling you to Him. I think God has a way of silencing those who you rely on more than Him. People aren't suppose to have all the answers. That's why a solid relationship with God is important. It puts you in a position to seek counsel from the truest Counselor.
I've grown to love and respect my Bishop more and more every time I hear him. He's tough. He gives a Word on a weekly basis that will cut you but force you to change. I've compared him to a drill sergeant lol He's all about business and that's why I'm so grateful to be at my church. He's training us for battle. We can't be weak and emotionally driven if we're going to fight against darkness. God has given him a mighty mighty vision. We're suppose to reach the world right? You have to be strong and courageous but you also have to depend on God more than anyone.
If I became offended every time someone said something I didn't like, didn't come through, didn't rise to expectations, etc., I would be a very emotionally unstable person lol But because of my faith and trust in the One who has promised to always be there and because of those moments when it seemed like no one could come though, I have peace even in those moments that used to offend me.
If I could write down all the times that my emotions tried to get in the way of God's voice and almost caused me to move out of His Will, I would. But it's way too many to name. Emotions can cause you to say things and make decisions that you regret. Be led by the Spirit and not by the flesh. Your flesh will get it wrong every time.
God is the one who has created each of us. No one can tell us who we are, what's placed inside of us, and the way He desires us to use those things except God. It's so important, especially during the journey of learning who you are, to fully rely on Him. I'll be honest and say that it's incredibly HARD but you'll never grow up by desiring counsel from a person more than counsel from God. That is a difficult lesson but a vital one to learn.
I'm grateful for the journey and where God has me. I feel that the hand of God is truly on my church. I can feel it. There is so much going on and I feel very blessed that God would allow me to be a part of it. I'm filled with much gratitude. And to be honest, I almost missed out on it. But praise God for being led by the spirit and not the flesh. Things don't always make sense but the season of seclusion/solitude is when you grow. When no one seems to come through, it's a blessing in disguise! Those are the moments where God is pulling you closer.
Take possession of your own mind. Your thoughts, emotions, feelings, and flesh all want to dominate you. But faith comes from a relationship with God. When you know that all things will work for your good, (Romans 8:28) you won't be shaken even when people, situations, and misfortunes try to move you. Focus on Jesus! There's nothing like having a real relationship with Him. God is the only one guaranteed to give you all that you will ever need.
It kind of brought me back to the way I used to be. I was a very emotionally driven teenager up until like twenty years old. I laugh now at the thought of it but I was a drama queen. I was one of those teenagers that was moody, impatient and all over the place lol But thank God for growth and maturity because I'm no longer moved by emotions.One thing that my bishop said was you have to die to your feelings. In 1 Corinthians 15 Paul said, "I die daily." Dying daily means to die to your fleshly tendencies and desires. Emotions will lead you all over the place.
What I loved most about that sermon was understanding the importance of leaning on God. Bishop was talking about seeking counsel. "I need help. I need advice. I need direction." And no one being able to provide it. I've been there and I can say that that provoked so much growth for me, physically and spiritually. At that moment when family didn't have the answers, friends didn't have the answers, church members, etc., when I thought no one had the answer, God had the answer! And that's exactly where He wanted me, leaning and depending on Him.
People are human so that means they will let you down at some point or another. And if your emotions rule over you, then you will be overwhelmed and easily offended. You ever hear someone say, "I'm offended?" Well offense is a CHOICE. Being angry, upset or resentful are all emotions that can easily peak their heads if others don't rise to expectations or if they say things or do things that let you down. But those very situations are being controlled by God to help you grow up. Not to be mean but you have to suck it up and keep moving. Who told you life was easy? It's not but it's possible.
When you've found yourself running around with what seems like no direction, that is an indicator that God is calling you to Him. I think God has a way of silencing those who you rely on more than Him. People aren't suppose to have all the answers. That's why a solid relationship with God is important. It puts you in a position to seek counsel from the truest Counselor.
I've grown to love and respect my Bishop more and more every time I hear him. He's tough. He gives a Word on a weekly basis that will cut you but force you to change. I've compared him to a drill sergeant lol He's all about business and that's why I'm so grateful to be at my church. He's training us for battle. We can't be weak and emotionally driven if we're going to fight against darkness. God has given him a mighty mighty vision. We're suppose to reach the world right? You have to be strong and courageous but you also have to depend on God more than anyone.
If I became offended every time someone said something I didn't like, didn't come through, didn't rise to expectations, etc., I would be a very emotionally unstable person lol But because of my faith and trust in the One who has promised to always be there and because of those moments when it seemed like no one could come though, I have peace even in those moments that used to offend me.
If I could write down all the times that my emotions tried to get in the way of God's voice and almost caused me to move out of His Will, I would. But it's way too many to name. Emotions can cause you to say things and make decisions that you regret. Be led by the Spirit and not by the flesh. Your flesh will get it wrong every time.
God is the one who has created each of us. No one can tell us who we are, what's placed inside of us, and the way He desires us to use those things except God. It's so important, especially during the journey of learning who you are, to fully rely on Him. I'll be honest and say that it's incredibly HARD but you'll never grow up by desiring counsel from a person more than counsel from God. That is a difficult lesson but a vital one to learn.
Take possession of your own mind. Your thoughts, emotions, feelings, and flesh all want to dominate you. But faith comes from a relationship with God. When you know that all things will work for your good, (Romans 8:28) you won't be shaken even when people, situations, and misfortunes try to move you. Focus on Jesus! There's nothing like having a real relationship with Him. God is the only one guaranteed to give you all that you will ever need.
Monday, March 19, 2012
HEY LADIES & GENTS!
GREAT NEWS: Chelsea & yours truly will be featured on the Sharvette Mitchell Radio Show tomorrow, (Tuesday, March 20) at 6:40PM!
We will be discussing Project Wifey! We are both extremely excited and appreciative for this opportunity! So if you're free during that time, please check out the show. We love y'all! Thank you for the continuous love and support!
GREAT NEWS: Chelsea & yours truly will be featured on the Sharvette Mitchell Radio Show tomorrow, (Tuesday, March 20) at 6:40PM!
We will be discussing Project Wifey! We are both extremely excited and appreciative for this opportunity! So if you're free during that time, please check out the show. We love y'all! Thank you for the continuous love and support!
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