Created To Be A Success ~ Jerry Savelle

Taken from www.jerrysavelle.org

Today's Topic: CREATED TO BE A SUCCESS
Author: Jerry Savelle
Verse(s): Jeremiah 29:11
Today's Confession: Winning in life is God's purpose for my life!

Devotional:
God designed you to be successful! You can seize your God-given opportunities and turn them into realities because you were created and designed by God to be successful in EVERY endeavor in your life.
You don't have to be a failure. You were not designed by God to fail. You were designed by God to win. Maybe you have heard this phrase before: It's not whether you win or lose, it is how you play the game that counts.

I first heard that as a little nine year old boy playing baseball. My coach told us that. I thought that was the dumbest thing I had ever heard. If it didn't matter, then why were practicing all the time? It just didn't make sense to me.

Now, I understand he was talking about sportsmanship. But I didn't like that phrase then and I still don't like it. We play to win!

I found out that if you play baseball right, you win. Every time we played the game right, every time we played better than the opposing team, we won! Winning was the purpose of playing the game.

And the same is true in your spiritual life. God intends for us to win EVERY TIME! His plan is that we play the game right. His plan is that we play better than our adversary. And when you and I do that, we will win. Winning is God's purpose for your life.


Light of the World Ministries New Year's Eve Service

After a year like this how can you not end it in church? Meet us on New Year's Eve @ 10pm as we thank God for watching over us for another year. It's going to be an exciting time!!!

www.lowcincy.org

Light of the World Ministries (Cincinnati, OH) Adds A Second Service

Beginning on January 6, 2013 Light of the World Ministries will be adding a 12:30pm service. What an incredible way to begin the new year!!!!

Find us on the web at www.lowcincy.org
Twitter @mvscruggs
Facebook lowcincy

Bind or Burden?

If a thing binds the results are closeness and a difficulty to separate.
A burden weighs.
We get to crossroads in our lives and often questions present themselves.
So, will it bind or burden?
Do I attach to it or allow it to weigh me down?
When one thinks of a burden you have to consider
-the heaviness
-how far you have to travel with it
-is it, whatever it is, worth carrying?
However if I bind I am pulling closer and forming intimate space that says I desire closeness.
Binding results in commitments because you are now tied to it.
Bind or burden?
Attach or get weighed down?
Several months ago I had a writing I wanted to edit.
I printed it out and went to Office Depot for binding.
The end result was that document is permanently in the order I want and need it to be in.
It will only separate if I tear it apart.
When I take it with me it's no longer a burden to carry or to navigate through.
Bind or burden?
Easy to navigate or difficult to carry?
I guess for any given person it would depend on their situation.
Personally I've had more than my share of burden. I've carried more than I needed to. It's time to take the load off.
Imma lay my burdens down.
Bind or burden?
I'll take bind for $200.

Strings of Color by Marian L. Thomas





Sittin' Up In My Room

Whew!!! What a weekend! It was one of those good and busy weekends. Today at work I just wanted to come home and relax. I kept thinking about my blog and how I have not posted as much as I would have like to this year. Mainly because my computer is doing some special stuff and after purchasing a Kindle I am loving the luxury of creating all over my home. With my son being home, from college, I also have access to his laptop.

After regrouping when I came into the house I decided to grab his laptop and sit in the middle of my bed and allow my fingers to glide across the homerow keys for awhile. And since I am sitting in my room it's only right that I put Brandy's, Sittin' Up In My Room, on repeat. For me there is nothing like getting it all out. Even if I write and it only makes sense to me I have to get it out of my head.

So, I am sitting in my room and listening to this song and feeling quite peaceful.  The year is coming to an end and several beginning have started. I don't know where they are headed but it feels good to be a part of adult conversations. Last night my mother made a statement in the presence of some of my girlfriends. It about floored me. I guess it's time for me to consider some things.

Sitting here I'm thinking about so many things. Like I need to paint this room and purge some stuff in here. Since I have lived here this room has never gotten the attention it deserves. Already I have a group of friends willing to help paint and decorate. It needs the perfect set of curtains to compliment the beautiful windows and a craft area where I can sit and bring somethings to life.

Well the time has arrived. Time for new beginnings. Out with the old and in with the new. And like Brandy I'm sitting here thinking about who God has for me. I pray that he'll invest in my happiness.

Just Every Now & Then

You know, life just gives you stuff.
Stuff that's unexpected, some good and some bad.
As hard as you try some stuff just don't work the way you want it to.
I want to be at my best without someone questioning "am I doing enough" or "stating I should do more".
I know to whom much is given much is required.
I know He gives the desires of our hearts.
My heart?.... See there's the issue. It's only so much my heart can take.
So much pain
So much disappointment
Yeah! Yeah! I know let the past go.
But what about when the voices of the past haunt you?
You're not enough. You're not doing enough suddenly creeps in.
Well for me that happens just every now and then.

The Kiss That I Have Been Waiting For

A couple of years ago I made a huge decision
It was just between Him and I
That I would wait on what He has for me
Not what I wanted for myself
A couple of years can be a long time
Especially if you are emotional, sensual
A Scorpio....Hello!!!!
Since that time I have stayed true
Leary of most brothers coming out the blue
Praying the Prayer of Jabez
The Prayer of Serenity
The past two years have put me really in tune to me
I've learned to rest in His arms
As He dries my tears
Holds me til I fall asleep
Once I fall asleep He kisses me
And tells me He loves me
Isn't that how it's suppose to be?
Those kisses are dear to my heart
They are worlds apart
From any kiss that I've ever had
Now that's the kiss
The kiss that I have waited for.
Not some cheap thrill that can
Walk in and out of any door.



.

A Greater Promise

On the eve of another year given
I have in my sight, in my ear, in my heart is a greater promise.

Believing that all things work for good then all of the heartaches and disappointments were for good.
For they put me on a path to be set in the presence of a greater promise.

Popular song tells me "He's been so good to me. He dried all of my tears away. Turned my midnights into day.
So I'll just say thank you Lord." I can't complain for He knew of the greater promise.

My greatest gift to self today is the releasing of those former things that held me captive. Now I set out for not that which has to catch up to me, not what matches me but that which exceeds me and prods me to constantly seek best and be best.

A greater promise is not perfect and neither am I. Damaged and fragile at the onset now make way for a higher power to take over, erase and make all things new.

Isaiah 48:6 You have heard these things; look at them all. Will you not admit them?“From now on I will tell you of new things, of hidden things unknown to you.

Why Pray?

You can't pray for something and then refuse to deal with it when it shows up. What God has for you was specifically designed for you. Even if you don't recognize it, God will make it known in due season. It's not about you but God's will for your life.

Ty Goes To See President Obama in Cincy

When President Obama cancelled his event in Cincinnati on Wednesday October 31 I had a whole lot of thoughts. One being what if President Obama was not reelected. I wanted to see him while he was still in office.

Being a part of the campaign proved advantageous when I received the email that he would be at UC on Sunday November 4. I immediately confirmed my ticket. About 2-3 minutes later it hit me. Take Ty too, be a part of history together.

On Sunday we left for church. Immediately afterwards we headed up to Clifton where we stood in line for over 4 hours to grab our bleacher seats with thousands of other supporters. We saw people from church and school. Ty played with children he had never met and took directions from folk he didn't know.

We stood on Jefferson Avenue for what seemed forever. It was cold and sunny. Then at times sunny then cold. Believe me there was a difference. Then around 8pm after hearing the incredible Stevie Wonder out came President Obama. I watched Tyler as he watched the arena go completely crazy. I wondered what he was thinking. Once the president started speaking Ty's eyes were glued to the stage.

I didn't take a lot of pictures but I am sharing what I took. We left the arena and saw the Secret Service, armed guards and Big Bird. As we made our way to the car I asked Ty what would he tell his teachers on the next day. His response, "Oh I got to write some sentences about this!"

Yes!!!!!! Moving Forward!!

Make A Diagnosis ~ Terri Savelle Foy

9/11/2012

Today's Topic: Make a Diagnosis
Author: Terri Savelle Foy
Verse(s): Isaiah 61:1

Devotional:

As I began seeking God for my own healing, I discovered that in order to be healed, you first have to diagnose the problem. You could be taking all the wrong medicines if you don't know where you're sick. Last year, I was experiencing so much pain when I would chew my food and then try to swallow it. People thought it was the flu, strep throat, sinus infection, stress, ulcer, etc. They were recommending all different types of medicine. Finally, I went to the doctor myself, and she ran the tests. Once diagnosed, they could prescribe the right medicine. If I had never allowed someone to diagnose the problem I could have wasted time and money trying everything to get better.

You could be thinking that a new husband is going to fix the loneliness you feel in your current marriage. Or that a little cosmetic surgery will give you the confidence you've lacked your whole life. Or that a promotion will heal your insecurities. Or that having a baby will bring joy back into your life. Nothing on the outside is going to change the way you feel on the inside.

It wasn't until I began seeking God that I discovered my true problem. I used to think that I was just shy. That was my excuse for not going to certain parties or being around certain people. Or I would think, "I'm just humble. I don't have to be around the 'big wigs' to feel important." So I would avoid certain social events, avoid going in the "speakers rooms" with the famous preachers. It wasn't humility. It wasn't shyness. It was a fear of rejection. As God began to reveal this to me, He showed me different times in my life where I was severely rejected and treated as having no value or second best. I carried that into other relationships and experienced more rejection with more wrong soul ties. What you think about, you attract.

I had the diagnosis for my problem. I had a major fear of rejection. I truly thought deep down inside that I wasn't good enough, that I was ugly and I would be rejected. Now that I knew the problem, I could treat it.

How do you discover the root problem in your life? As with any illness, you have to seek out The Physician. In our case, that's God. He is the Great Physician. This is something only you can do for yourself. Nobody can go to the Physician for you. Have you ever been so sick that you don't even want to get out of bed, but you know you need to go to the doctor? You can't send your friend. You can't send your Pastor. You can't send your spouse or your mom. You have to do this for yourself.

I have thought about when you visit a doctor's office. They don't run a check-up on you in the waiting room in front of everyone. They don't run your tests in the lobby. It's in private. The doctor meets with you in a room alone, then visits you privately to run your tests. What am I saying? Get alone with God. He is the Great Physician. Healing always take place on the inside before it ever shows up on the outside.

Visit www.jerrysavelle.org for Daily Devotionals

Light of the World Ministries presents College Sunday on September 23, 2012

Come out and celebrate with young people from various colleges in the area as they lift up the name of Jesus.

Be Inspired!!!

Visit us at www.lowcincy.org

Romans 8:28 ~ It All Works Together

Milani Nail Lacquer ~ One Coat Glitter

One of my favorite nail products I purchased over the summer was Milani's One Coat Glitter in Silver Dazzle.

I had no idea what to expect but I knew the color was simply gorgeous. Plus I love all things silver.

I did apply one coat but as a habitual two coat applicator I added a second coat. Well... Each time I am amazed at how beautiful my nails are. Plus you can feel a raised texture on each nail, almost giving the illusion of my nails being pressed on.

Taking the lacquer off is a bit time consuming but after reading the site I have a better understanding for my next lacquer removal.

This nail lacquer is perfect if you are looking for something totally unique. Plus the glitter adds that extra glam to your next manicure.

Check their site out here

Milani Cosmetics


New Day Gospel Fest Coming to Cincinnati, Ohio

New Day Gospel Fest is coming to the Cintas Center Friday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m.

Featured artists Shirley Ceasar, Yolanda Adams and Marvin Sapp will be performing.

Tickets are on sale now at the Cintas Center ticket office or at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information log onto www.cintascenter.com.

Sometimes My Crown Is Slipping

A while back I posted about MaKaila Sapp, daughter of Pastor Marvin Sapp, releasing her first book Girl Behind the Mask - Diary of Marvin Sapp's Daughter. Recently I purchased her book and I read it last weekend.

Intially I'm thinking this book would be a perfect gift for any teenage girl going through some stuff. God knows our girls are struggling with so much right now. After further reading I realize that this book also spoke to the inner girl in me.

The one who was "not cute" during her teenage years. I didn't have the hair or the clothes. All I had was my intellect and belief in God, though at the time those things were the furthest things from my mind. It even got to the point where my mother sent me to modeling school. No, not to be a model, but to learn how to walk with my head up and to learn how to apply makeup and ultimately to learn that I was ok as I was.

So last week I'm sitting at my parent's reading MiKaila's book and she discusses being a princess. One of the lines that stood out to me in her discussion was "Sometimes my crown is slippin'. I had to hold it in, but I felt a need to worship. Now just prior to this she discusses her personal story and the story of Esther.

You see MiKaila has discovered that through her adversities she is a princess but even in being a princess sometimes we trip on things that we don't need to. No matter what we grow through we should all see ourselves as princesses. We are all valuable, all worthy, all beautiful. We have to know that for ourselves and not believe what others say about us.

I know for a fact that sometimes my crown is slippin'. Like when people take my kindness for weakness, when my heart gets broken, or when people don't value who God created me to be. Yeah at those times my crown slips. Though like Esther I believe I was created for a such as time as this. So from now on when I feel my crown slippin' let me simply adjust it and keep it moving for my court awaits me.

Select to purchase Girl Behind the Mask.

Light of The World Ministries (Cincinnati, OH) ~ Back 2 School Concert

Fifth Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Revival "Don't Look Back"

Run to God ~ Pastor Jerry Savelle


Each morning when I wake up I do several things.
1. Pray
2. Thank God for another day &
3. Read the Daily Devotional @ www.jerrysavelle.org

Here's today's devotional.

8/1/2012
Verse(s): Jeremiah 29:11
Today's Confession: Thanks be to God who always causes me to triumph in Christ!

Devotional:
Not knowing what to do or how to change a situation can make you feel miserable and lonely. When you feel that you are in over your head, Satan can make you feel absolutely hopeless. He will attempt to magnify your problems so that you can't see the solution. But I want to tell you today that there IS a solution.
The spirit of hopelessness can come on you when you least expect it. You can be in a service where the praise is high and you are rejoicing. Yet, when you walk out of the building and get in the car, the feeling of despair almost instantly consumes you. You think, "God, what am I going to do?"

"How in the world am I ever going to get out of this mess? There's no hope. Things will never change." Those are feelings and negative thoughts which are lies from Satan trying to keep you frightened, depressed, wondering, and worrying about what to do. It's all an attempt to get you to run FROM God rather than TO Him.

Peter felt that way. In the book of Mark, Peter and the disciples were out on the sea and a storm came up. This was not just any storm. It was a mega storm. And yet Jesus was asleep in the back of the ship. Peter woke Him up saying, "You don't even care, do You? We are about to drown and what are you doing? Sleeping! You don't even care." (Author's paraphrase)

I'm sure that you've thought the same kind of thing at some point in time in your life. Maybe you feel that way today. But I want you to know that God does care. Not only does He care about you and your situation, He is committed to seeing you through. His plan is for your victory and success. Don't believe the lies of the devil. Any thought that he plants in your mind about God not caring is a lie. When he tries to tell you that there is no way out - he is a liar. He cannot tell the truth. The truth isn't in him. So no matter what he says or what he tries to get you to believe - he's lying. When he says you are finished. God says you are not. When he says you blew it. God says His mercies are new every morning. When he tries to make you feel hopeless, have hope. God is a God of hope. God is there for you. God will make a way when there seems to be no way. So trust Him today and don't listen to the lies of the devil.

Gospel Today Responds to The James and Cheryl Fortune Child Abuse Suit

This week I was shocked at the $5 million suit brought against the Fortune family. With a new cd released recently, a BET nomination for Best Gospel Artist and the Fortunes gracing a recent cover of Gospel Today as one of their "It" couples I'm sure that this news becoming public has been a huge blow to their family, friends and fans this week.

From Twitter to blog sites to gospel radio stations people are commenting on this topic. Some with prayer and some with outrage. We can only pray for those involved in this matter and hope for an amicable outcome for both families.

Over the past month we've seen a mega pastor arrested for disciplining his daughter and now this. This is a critical time to reiterate that as Christians we have to know God for ourselves and not rely on those in the spotlight to aid us in building a relationship with God. Pastors and recording artists are human just like we are. The only difference is their wider platforms to reach lost souls and of course their fame and fortune.

If the details of the suit are true my prayers go out to the child at the center of this suit. But let this be a huge lesson that being "It" isn't always as good as it seems.

Go to the following link to read Gospel Today's response.

Gospel Today Responds to The James and Cheryl Fortune Abuse Suit

Too Much Oil





My son and I have an issue with lawn care equipment. No matter how hard we try we can mess some stuff up. It could be a rake, a weeder or in this case a lawnmower. OK. Our second lawnmower. The first one was given to us as a gift. I have no idea what my son did, but what I do know is that it doesn't work anymore. Within the past couple of years my father gave us a new lawnmower. Like really new. Well...we haven't used it this year, or last year for that matter because it doesn't, rather it didn't work. It had this whole smoke out leaking liquid thing going on. It didn't look good. It definitely didn't smell good. So we've stopped using it. We come into the garage and just stare at it like "What did we do wrong this time?"

Since summer started I have been hearing several preachers preach about the woman who owed a debt and she had nothing but some oil. I remember one Sunday hearing Pastor RA Vernon preach the scripture and another Sunday I heard it preached by Pastor Jamal Bryant, preach Black Man!! In Pastor Jamal's sermon he discussed how the woman had everything she needed in her house and how the oil represented the anointing. He spoke about how people are always trying to think outside of the box and everything God wants for them is within.

So I'm trying to figure some stuff out here. One of them being who can I get to fix this lawnmower or should I get it replaced?  Would prefer fixed, our yard has issues. Recently one of my closest friends celebrated her birthday, afterwards her husband wanted to come look at our bicycles to see if my younger son could start riding. We he saw the bikes, he looked them over and stated there's nothing wrong with them. Well what about the lawnmower? He decided to take it home and look it over.

Later that week I get a text. A nice/irritated text. He stated "somebody put too much oil in the lawnmower and that's why it didn't work.." So he drained it and we sat the filter out and guess what. My son will be cutting the grass soon. It works!!!! At least for now.

I began to think about the sermons I had heard and the scriptures associated with the sermons. I called my mom and I asked her about being anointed and if one can have too much oil, too much anointing. She told me that God gives you the anointing that you need to do what He calls you to do.

"But Mom can you have too much anointing?"

"Honey, no you can't have too much anointing but you can have enough anointing where it will cause people to come and see about you."

Amen Amen and Amen Everything I needed was inside the box too much oil and all.

Elisha and the Widow's Oil

Light of The World Ministries 6th Anniversary July 13-15




For six years, Light of the World has stood for integrity, impact and influence. Our wonderful staff works tirelessly so that we may transform our city…one heart at a time. So if we're going to work hard, we might as well play hard. We'll be celebrating six years with our... Church Anniversary the weekend of July 13-15.
Friday 7/13 – 7pm

Pastor Mike McClure from Birmingham, AL, Called II Worship, and New Vision will all be in the “House!”


Saturday 7/14 – 11am

We're also taking our 'Lot Party to another level with a Car Show this year! Free music, games, and rides! Bring out the entire family!



Sunday 7/15

Join us for morning worship at 10:30 for our "House" Party!
 

Michael Jackson - Rock With You



Favorite song ever!!!! Around this time of year I don't even want to listen to the radio. Forever a fan.

SKY VBS 2012 White Oak Christian Church




A couple of weeks ago I had the incredible experience of serving as a Family Leader for Vacation Bible School at Mount Airy Elementary, hosted by White Oak Christian Church and Light of the World Ministries. What I had heard about White Oak was that they did VBS big. What I experienced was that White Oak does VBS incredible!!!

As a mommy, a teacher, and a servant in children's ministry I am always interested in other church's children's ministry programs not only so that I can learn but so that my child and other people's children can learn too.

My role in VBS this year was to be a Family Leader. I was with my family group for 3 hours each day. We worshipped together, ate together, played together, learned together and we created together. I tell you that by the end of the week my group of children and I had became like a little family.

Some of the incredible experiences were Bible Adventures and Missions Mania. OMG!! During Missions Mania we all got to pretend that we were on an airplane. We traveled to India, Turkey, Ethopia, and Hati. This truly blessed us to learn about so many different cultures. On the night that we studied about Ethopia we saw a video entitled The Burden of Thirst. In this video we discovered that women in this country had a struggle unimaginable to us. Please view.

The Bible Adventures segment was amazing in that each day the room transformed into the story being presented. The pictures shown on this site are from my favorite adventure story. When I walked in and saw the crosses I about passed out. Thinking about it brings tears to my eyes. The person presenting the story never came out of character. He was so good!! He discussed making the crosses and demostrated how a person would be nailed to one. As an activity he gave us black strips of material, this represented bad stuff. We prayed in our family groups about bad stuff and then we layed our strips, the bad stuff, on the cross.

But it didn't end there. Next the faciliator rolled away the stone of where Jesus was buried and the cave lit up and all the children were given glow braclets to represent Jesus being the the Light. Man!!!!! Whew!!!!

This VBS experience truly left me with a different view of Children's Ministry. You first have to have a passion for God and for children. But then you have to be willing to use your gifts and resources to make the Word of God come alive for children. Even the games we played were so creative and engaging.

What an incredible experience for the children and for myself! I've already signed up for next year.

The biggest lesson I learned at Sky VBS this year.

No matter who you are
No matter how you feel
No matter what people do
No matter what happens
Trust God




Sleep Eludes Me

He ignores me when I need him most. He leaves me up til 2 or 3 in the morning. I think he's cheating on me #sleep better get it 2gether💤

Happy - Fred Hammond



Listening to Pandora recently I heard this song for the first the time. It just sends me dancing throughout the house.

Breakfast With My Boys



Well summer is upon us. It's been a bit of a slow down for my family. At least enough of a slow down that for one whole week I was able to prepare and eat breakfast with my sons. Not only did they help, but on some mornings breakfast was ready when I woke up. Yay!!

 It really didn't hit me to about Wednesday that this was actually occurring. It's so easy to get lost in moments or to take moments for granted.

As we sat around with our pancakes, scrabbled eggs and Kroger's Homestyle Orange Juice (but of course!!! lol) we laughed and talked about plans for the summer and the newness this upcoming school year will bring. To see them laughing and full of life brought such joy to me. Not mention that after breakfast each morning my younger son put a whooping on us playing Uno. Who knew you could stack the Draw 2's and Draw 4's? Alex and I didn't. Lol.

During the school year it's so hectic with work, making sure homework is completed, keeping paperwork filled out, and attending basketball games. Sometimes we are doing something just grabbing a handful of cereal as we push out the door.

So during this summer, as much as our schedules permit we will sit and have our meals together because before we know it these opportunities will be few and far between.

But, You Said ~ Da'dra Crawford Greathouse

Da'dra Crawford Greathouse is a national gospel recording artist (Anointed) and Worship Leader at Lakewood Church in Houston, TX. Yesteday she posted a powerful message on Facebook that I thought I would share on this site. You will be encouraged by her message.

BUT, YOU SAID...


I overslept yesterday morning, so I didn't get a chance to tell you about what happened the night before. I was up very late because my youngest son had me trapped! The previous night, he asked if I could paint his face so he looked like he tiger. I said yes. (That was my 1st mistake LOLOL) But, it was so late, I told him to go to bed and I would do it in the morning. Well.....morning came and we were running behind (busy households know what I'm talking about LOL) and the 1st thing he asked when we were rushing was, "Mom, do you remember YOU SAID you were going to paint my face like a tiger?" I told him I remembered, but we had to get moving and that I would paint his face when we got home that evening. He exclaimed, "But, MOM....YOU SAID...!"


Well, evening came and I was still cooking and cleaning and around 11:00 p.m. he comes in the room saying, "Mom....remember YOU SAID you were gonna paint my face? I have the paint and my brushes? Please Mom, Please?" At that point, I had to honor my word and follow through. Why? I want to teach my children to be people of integrity and to the best of their ability, keep their word. I also want to give them an earthly example of what a relationship with God is like. He keeps His word. So...EXHAUSTED AND READY TO GO TO SLEEP, I agreed to do the face paint...even though he was only going to have it on for a few minutes because it was way past his bedtime. LOL But, Ps. 15:1, 'Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD?...those who keep their promises even when it hurts.' Ummm, Even when it hurts...that was me. LOL


The following morning, this came to me...we should all be like children. When you children you are going to do something, they will not release it! LOL They won't give up and they will stay in expectation until you do exactly what you said you would do. My son kept saying, "You said...but you said...but you said." And that is what you need to say. "But, God you said you would supply all my needs according to your riches (not mine) in glory. But, you said the you would make me the head and not the tail. You said you would make to be above only and not beneath. You said you would make me a lender and not a borrower. You said that by your stripes, I WAS healed, so I need a manifestation! You said that I would be blessed coming in and going out. You said that you would open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings that I would not have room enough to contain!


See, when you do this, you are reminding God of His promises to YOU! Is. 43:26 says, "Put me in remembrance: let us contend together: state your case, that you may be proved right." I love it! Why would God need to be reminded of anything? Reminding Him is not for Him...IT'S FOR YOU! God is telling you right now to remind Him of what He has declared for your life. And listen when you find the promises in His word, you need to SPEAK them out loud. Why? Let me give you 2 reasons: 1)There is power in what you say! You will have what you say and if you say the right things, then you life will go in the right direction. 2) Because faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. In other words...your faith to believe what God has spoken to you will only come by hearing these words spoken over your life. Let me tell you, I always thought this scripture limited the speaking to a teacher or preacher or someone else. I thought that my faith would increase if I heard someone else speak it over my life. But, I have come to realize that faith comes by HEARING and you can hear yourself speaking over your own life.


Who am I talking to today? You don't have to wait for some one to give you a word...you speak the word over your own life! LOL I love it! Oh, I feel it this morning. You are the architect of your own destiny and God has already drawn up the plans! Put God in remembrance of them! Tell Him, God, YOU SAID that I would be married. YOU SAID that you open up new doors for me. YOU SAID that I would not die but LIVE and declare your works. YOU SAID it ain't over until YOU SAY it's over. YOU SAID that you would never leave me nor forsake me. YOU SAID that I would recover all! YOU SAID, that you would give me double for my trouble. YOU SAID that you would make my enemies my footstool. YOU SAID that I am more than a conqueror. YOU SAID THAT I AM VICTORIOUS IN YOU!


What has God said to you? He will keep His word if you say what He said. If you receive it, shout, "YEAH!" Whew. Have a blessed, prosperous and productive day. I'm gonna go workout now. Love ya'll

WIP The Runway Fashion Experience


What do you get when you combine a woman with a vision, a beautiful location, and a host of Christian designers? What you get is an absolute wonderful evening of fashion, fun and networking.  All of this in a church sanctuary. That's right the sanctuary was transformed into a chic, fashion runway. Lights! Camera! Action!

For about six years I have passed Towne Worship Center to and from work. I had never been inside and was more than excited to attend this event. I had met the organizer, Stephanie Gordon, last summer and we are friends on FB. She has a sense of style that is obvious to the eye when you see her. So when she started posting info for the WIP (Wear It Proud) Experience I knew it would be an awesome event to attend.

The evening included not only fashion but some powerful videos and ministry by The Movement and SYNT also. What I loved most about this fashion show was that it was located in a church and yet it didn't have that pastel suit/hat combo feel to it. All of the models looked amazing in their outfits and it made me think Hmmmmm!!! I see some items I can purchase that would benefit designers that are believers. Now that's something to be proud about.

Below are a list of designers showcased at this event.

Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus || Spoken Word

When It All Falls Apart ~ Riva Tims



I can reflect back now on waiting to see Pastor Zach Tims on the Word Network or TBN. He always had such an amazing and magnetic energy. I would love to watch him and his wife minister together. To many they seemed to have it all. Good looks, a family, and a growing ministry. Then all of a sudden you heard the rumors or you read about them online and eventually it all fell apart.

I follow Pastor Riva on Facebook and when I saw she had a book out I knew I had to read it. I knew she had some revelations and principles that I could apply to my personal situations. Once I downloaded to my Kindle I sat and read the Preface. Whew!!! Just that section alone confirmed that Pastor Riva's experiences were going to aid in blessing and healing others. The tears fell as I thought about how through our trials God still keeps us. He's an awesome God!!

What I love about this book is not just her openness but also her ability to line up scriptures and stories in the Bible so that readers can have a point of reference to further understand that our problems don't catch God by surprise and that He is always there, even in our darkest hours.

Be prepared to discover more about yourself as Pastor Riva shares her pains, heartaches and restoration on her path back to ministry and back to who God called her to be.

I would recommend this book for a Women's Bible study. So many women are going through but don't know how to get through. When It All Fall Apart helps you get through.

Steve Harvey Preaching On TBN..... Know Your Purpose ...



You have to attach yourself to your gift. Your gift is the thing you do the absolute best with the least amount of effort. Your gift is what you do.

Proverbs 18:16

A gift opens the way
    and ushers the giver into the presence of the great. (NIV)

A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. (KJV)

Stop chasing the passion and pursue the gift.

This message is INCREDIBLE!!! My favorite quote from Steve Harvey ~ I was who I was but I am who I am and I'm cool with both them people.

You have to sit and really listen to this message. Your gift will truly make room for you but you have to prepare the way for the gift to come.

Be Blessed and Go Get It!!!!


The Mirror Movement ~ Real Love Spring Fashion Show 2012

 

 

I think I have found my yearly event!! If you love fashion and you adore young people this fashion show is definitely the place to be. Many people must think as I do as this event sold out at the Sharonville Convention Center this past Sunday.

My friends and I go each year to support Ms. Taylor and we end up in awe and this year in tears as the organization put together a video of the girl’s photo shoot set to “What About The Children” by Yolanda Adams. Talk about a powerful moment. Fortunately for Stephanie and me, I had tissue handy.

The Mirror Movement is about empowering our girls. They do an amazing job at not only teaching the girls about fashion and movement but several scenes dealt with issues around concerns as it relates to body types and bullying. No matter the scene these girls were fierce and confident. You could see the effort that was put forth to make this event successful.

We decided on Sunday that we will be back each year. It’s so important that our girls see themselves as beautiful and confident. We want to be a part of that.

Remember when we were children? If not for those who loved us and cared for us, where would be today?

For more information visit www.themirrormovement.org

A Steady Stream - Pastor Jerry Savelle

You might be saying, "I can't meditate on the Word all day." Yes, you can. You simply have to stop meditating on what the devil is saying and begin to embrace the things that God has told you. People worry all the time. What is worry? Believing what the devil has said, picturing his outcome. It is the opposite of meditating on God's Word. Why not meditate on what the Word says? Why not picture yourself being victorious? Why not replay all the times in your life when God has come through for you? From Daily Devotional - A Steady Stream -

When Rain Falls by Tyora Moody

 

When Rain Falls

 

New Book by Tyora Moody

New Releases by Francis Ray Kiss and Tell Readers' Campaign



Why You Gotta Call Her a b….?

Each day after work I drive to where I pick up my son and I deescalate from a day of teaching and counseling students that have disabilities. I have this spot under a tree where I simply sit and attempt to find my center. Well, as the beautiful weather approaches children are hanging all over the place. Maybe it’s because it’s near an elementary school and a rec center. Though here lately they have been hanging strong.

So today, I pull up and I hear a lot of commotion. If you can imagine mini clusters of elementary students and no adult supervisor at all. It was very loud but there was a group of students that stood out. I kept hearing a little girl say “I’m not a b…..” The little boy kept riding around her and her friends calling them all kind of b’s. Dumb and stupid came from this child’s mouth before spitting out that ugly word. I’m contemplating intervening, I don’t know them and they have probably only seen me in passing.

The little girl was beyond upset and she simply sat there while this little boy rode back and forth on his bicycle calling her a b.

Finally I had had enough. I walked slowing across the street and I kept my eye on him. He made several circles around me and kept laughing but I kept my eye contact. As I approached the door I asked him,

Why you gotta call her a b….?” His response “Because she is one. All girls are.”

Is that what you call your mother?

No, I’d get grounded.

What about your grandmother?

O. No!

So why you call her one?

She a girl.

I’m a girl.

You’re a woman.

I was once a girl. Does that make me a b.?

No ma’am.

Do you know that little girl’s name?

Yes ma’am.

Then, that’s what I expect you to call her. By her name.

Yes ma’am

What if I had said nothing? Sometimes it easier to say nothing. What stayed in my head the most was that these were elementary children. Elementary children!!! Here this girl was being called a name that leaves many grown women messed up upon hearing it. For some reason today I needed those children to know that being called a b….. is not ok.

A Call For Change



Yesterday I attended a workshop pertaining to encouraging African American males in the classroom. This video was shown at the end of the session. I truly hope that the information we received yesterday spills over into our classrooms and into our homes.

Sinners & Saints by Victoria Christopher Murray and Reshonda Tate Billingsley

 

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Sinners and Saints was the first novel I read this year. I won’t lie either, I bought it because one of the authors is a friend on FB. So as I was walking through the bookstore I saw the book and thought “Don’t I know that author?”

It took about a month for me to open the book up but once I did I could not put it down. Murray and Billingsley had me up early in the morning and late at night trying to figure out what Rachel and Jasmine would do next. What I really loved about the book is the realness of how some church folk are. There are some people who are all about the power and will stop at nothing to get it. The pastors in this story were so loving and they saw past the faults of others, including their wives. Talking about rising above the ashes. I loved each of them so much that I was hoping the best for both of them.

Being raised in church all of my life and working in ministry I could easily see how competiveness can become divisive and exhausting. You really have to read Sinners and Saints. It’s an enjoyable book with twists and turns like you would not believe. By the end of the book you can really relate to both of the main characters, Rachel and Jasmine. You then have to decide who’s team you’re own. As for me. Well let’s just say I would have been trying to find a way out too even if it put me into a negative light.

 

Sinners & Saints YouTube Video

Purchase Sinners & Saints on Amazon

http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/

http://reshondatatebillingsley.com/

Dear Whitney, I Get So Emotional Every Time I Think Of You

 

3.10.12 Empty Camera 177

 

I remember February 11 all too well. It is my brother’s birthday and it was also the day of a health and wellness event at our church. The previous day our church had a GoRed! Gala. Needless to say I was very tired when I got home. I passed out for many hours. As I struggled to get up later that evening I received a call from my niece about Whitney Houston. Now the need to get up was urgent. The texts and calls were coming through. Many I didn’t respond to. I was numb, stunned, emotional……

Only last night did I pick up and read one of the many magazines I have purchased in memory of Whitney. They are sitting on the counter for me to glance at as I come and go throughout the house. For the very first time as I read about Whitney not one tear dropped. Whew! The article took me back to 1985, two years before I would graduate from high school. I remember hearing her sing for the first time and wishing I had the courage to use my voice to sing. She was like a part of me that I wished I was. A part of me that to this day still stays dormant.

I was fortunate enough to see her when she came to Riverbend. Thinking back on that now, I just wanted to see Whitney Houston in concert and now I realize that I witnessed the beginning of an icon. One of my dreams when I was in school was to become a tour manager and to work with her. Now that never happened but it solidifies my adoration for her music early on. After her passing I had a person say to me, when was the last time you listened to a Whitney Houston song. Please believe that she is and has been in rotation since the beginning.

While “How Will I Know” is my absolute favorite Whitney song. My favorite album has to be I’m Your Baby Tonight which contains the song “Miracle”. That song speaks volumes to many life experiences that I was going through at that time. I believe that is what her music did, speak volumes to her fans. So much so that after hearing “The Greatest Love of All” in 1992 I decided to name my son Alexander because I knew he would be great and so would my love for him. Years later I would go on to name my younger son Xander.

I pray that Whitney’s spirit feels the overwhelming support of so many people who loved her so much and appreciated her. We all have flaws, we are all searching for the dream that makes us feel whole, and we all want to experience great love. In many ways, many of us are similar to Whitney Houston constantly searching out that which the Creator has already placed inside of us.

The music of Whitney Houston is timeless and she was blessed to be given songs to sing that will forever hold meaning. Since February 11 I have listened to so many songs and had so many memories but there is one song I can’t listen to yet, one video I can’t view yet. I can’t manage to hear her sing learning to love yourself, is the greatest love of all… I get too emotional.

5 Daily Habits of Happy Women

I woke up this morning and found this article on MSN. I found all of the habits something that I am either already attempting to do or would consider doing. Enjoy!!!


5 Daily Habits of Happy Women

Whitney Houston - How Will I Know? (LIVE! 1986)



My absolute favorite performance of my favorite song by my favorite female artist. Whitney Houston's death is still shocking and truly unbelievable. I find comfort in knowing that she is now safe in our Master's arms.

Isaac Quaye Ministry ~ Uncomparable Official Video Release 1.26.12

 

Uncomparablepic

 

What happens when you combine an amazing worshipper, a beautiful song, and some incredible locations?

 

Uncomparable Official Video Release 1.26.12

Isaac Quaye Ministry

www.isaacquaye.com

1st Annual GoRed! Gala at Light of the World Ministries (Cincinnati, Ohio)

Put on your red dress and slip on your high heels......


Join us for an exciting evening as we raise awareness and support the GoRed! For Women Campaign.


Walk the red carpet, and take pictures like a Hollywood Star!!! Hear from amazing motivational speaker Faith Daniels!!! Enjoy incredible food!! Dance the night away!!!


Tickets go on sale December 26, 2011. Prices are $20 a person and $35 a couple. Deadline to buy tickets is January 31, 2012.


ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

We hope to see you there!!!!!
GoRed! Gala on Facebook




Congratulations To Tyler McKinley On Scoring 1,000 Points!!!!!!!!! 💙💚

On Tuesday, January 30 during Winton Woods vs West Clermont, Tyler McKinley scored his 1,000th point as his teammates, family and friends lo...