In our busy lives, we place so many expectations on ourselves and on others; sometimes realistic and sometimes not so realistic. Figuring out what can is realistic and what's not can be difficult but doesn't have to be. Simply, think of what you expect of yourself compared to what you're actually able to do (within reason); and, based on that you should not expect anymore from anyone else. Next, if you are sick, tired and unsatisfied even after accomplishing everything on your laundry list, then was it really worth pushing yourself to those limits? Then, don't place that level of expectation on someone else. At the end of the day, there will always be something else to accomplish. So, how do we temper those expectations and how to do we protect that which we really should expect?
Tempering expectations only come when we are intentional about it. If you are a perfectionist and have always had what others think are unrealistic expectations of them, then this will be a tough transition and will only happen if you realize that you have them, yourself. If you don't see it that way then you will probably not see these next steps as useful.
How to temper expectations...
1) If you know that your expectations are a little steep even for you, do some self reflecting and readjust them so that you can feel accomplished and at the same time remain healthy and happy.
2) Determine if most the people you love and care about think that you have unrealistic expectations.
3) If the answer is, "Yes" ask them, individually, "What them what is realistic to you?"
4) Once the two of you negotiate about what is realistic for the both of you as it relates to your relationship, then be respectful of the boundaries and uphold your end of the bargain.
5) Check in regularly (at least once a month) to have a loving and honest conversation about how things are going and be willing to modify when necessary.
Most importantly, protect what you expect?
1) Be accountable by writing down your expectations, goals, objectives, etc. and reading them daily.
2) Be responsible by simplifying a day-to-day or week-to-week list to help meet your expectations.
3) Be vulnerable by discussing your challenges with a confidant and then listen for divine guidance.
4) Be teachable by always seeking ways to be a better you.
Lord, as women, we really struggle with our expectations of ourselves and of others. Sometimes, they are lacking and sometimes they are way over the top. Father, we ask that you teach us balance. We ask that you help us to be realistic yet unafraid to tell people what we want from them in a loving. We ask that you give us courage to be accountable, responsible, vulnerable, teachable so that we will fill accomplished and fulfilled. We thank so much for always helping us grow closer to You, to others, and to ourselves. Thank You, Jesus, for being our example! Amen!!
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Day 34 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
I look around at my grandsons playing, running, jumping, wrestling, and laughing and what I witness is sheer joy! When I observe adults, however, I see quite the opposite. Instead, I witness rushing, stumbling, fighting, debating, worrying, and stressing, which equate to misery in my book. What we forget is that inside of each of us there is still a small child capable of happiness and good times; but, somehow, somewhere along the way of growing up someone told us we must be serious and we've obviously bought into it. Therefore, my questions to you is simple: "How's that working out for you?"
We work diligently to make sure that our children have fun and enjoy your their childhood. We employ all manner of habits to ensure their innocence is preserved and their memories are great ones. We put up safety gates, read bed time stories, bake cookies with apples sauce instead of sugar, put peanut butter and raisins on celery, take them to water parks and Chuck E Cheese, all to make sure we give them what we think they need and what they think they want. We know the importance of raising happy and healthy children. But, how important is it to you to be a happy healthy woman, mother, wife, sister, adult??
It is absolutely crucial that you too learn how to play again. It is essential to your health and just as important to your relationships with the people you love. What if starting right now, you place as much time in planning how to be healthy, happy, childlike, and fun as you do for your children? How challenging would that be? How important do you think it is to your relationship with your spouse or boyfriend, children, girlfriends, family members, coworkers, and yourself? Don't you want to be happy and joyful again or maybe even for the very first time? Why don't you commit at this very moment to look out for you own well being and protect your right to live a live of joy and abundance!
Lord, I thank you that you sent your son, Jesus, so that we may have life and have it more abundantly. I pray that my sisters will remember the power and joy He possessed and how He helped so many, but he also took time away from all in order to look out for His own wellbeing. Lord, give us childlike faith and joy again, so that we can experience a more balanced life amongst our many responsibilities; and, convict us to make ourselves and our need for recreation one of those responsibilities. We know that when we are happy, joyful, and playful it is easier for us to serve others with loving ease and it makes us a better representative for You! That's what we desire to be. Thank you and Amen!!!
We work diligently to make sure that our children have fun and enjoy your their childhood. We employ all manner of habits to ensure their innocence is preserved and their memories are great ones. We put up safety gates, read bed time stories, bake cookies with apples sauce instead of sugar, put peanut butter and raisins on celery, take them to water parks and Chuck E Cheese, all to make sure we give them what we think they need and what they think they want. We know the importance of raising happy and healthy children. But, how important is it to you to be a happy healthy woman, mother, wife, sister, adult??
It is absolutely crucial that you too learn how to play again. It is essential to your health and just as important to your relationships with the people you love. What if starting right now, you place as much time in planning how to be healthy, happy, childlike, and fun as you do for your children? How challenging would that be? How important do you think it is to your relationship with your spouse or boyfriend, children, girlfriends, family members, coworkers, and yourself? Don't you want to be happy and joyful again or maybe even for the very first time? Why don't you commit at this very moment to look out for you own well being and protect your right to live a live of joy and abundance!
Lord, I thank you that you sent your son, Jesus, so that we may have life and have it more abundantly. I pray that my sisters will remember the power and joy He possessed and how He helped so many, but he also took time away from all in order to look out for His own wellbeing. Lord, give us childlike faith and joy again, so that we can experience a more balanced life amongst our many responsibilities; and, convict us to make ourselves and our need for recreation one of those responsibilities. We know that when we are happy, joyful, and playful it is easier for us to serve others with loving ease and it makes us a better representative for You! That's what we desire to be. Thank you and Amen!!!
Day 33 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
If there is anything to defend, it is your right to be great!!! As women, we shrink far too much so that others may feel important and superior. We've taken it upon ourselves to help others manage their esteem even at the fate of our own when, in fact, others' feelings are none our business. Our own feelings are our business. Yet, day after day, "we cast our pearls to swine." We throw away our valuable dreams, plans, feelings, and ideas and give them away to someone who takes them and never credit us nor help us with ours. It just happens; but, what if we would protect that which God has given us to shine?
We must learn to preserve those things; our time, our talents, our resources (financial and otherwise). That is not to say that we don't share with others; because, I believe that it is our responsibility to do so. However, I do not believe that we should give to our detriment or in a way that causes resentment in the end. When we give out of obligation only, more times than not, negative emotions follow especially when we don't get the results that we desire. Let us give out of responsibility and LOVE and timing and guidance and inspiration. Let us also give to ourselves from the same veins. The more we preserve our own well being, the better we are equipped to help serve others.
God has given us everything we need to be shining stars for Him, let us show gratitude by using them. Be strong, courageous, and confident in those things in which He's blessed you! It's okay to be great or seen as someone special. Seal that in your mind and protect it at all cost. This is the way that we "really" help others, by letting our light shines not by turning it off so that they can appear to have more wattage than they choose to illuminate. They have a bright light as well and are just as responsible to for letting theirs shine as you are. Therefore, choose today to no longer neglect your light, but protect it at all cost so that you may experience the joy of the Lord, which comes from living according to His will for your life.
Lord, we know that it is Your will for us to let our light shine before men so that they may see your good work in us and glorify you. Today, as we make the decision to hold up our individual light, we also give others permission to hold up their own without our interference. This is not easy nor is it natural for us, so please strengthen us in this regard. Today, we aim to be good stewards with our time, talents, and resources as you have given us to do so. We will protect them and use them; and, we will be great as you've predestined for our lives. We thank you and we glorify you! Amen!!!
We must learn to preserve those things; our time, our talents, our resources (financial and otherwise). That is not to say that we don't share with others; because, I believe that it is our responsibility to do so. However, I do not believe that we should give to our detriment or in a way that causes resentment in the end. When we give out of obligation only, more times than not, negative emotions follow especially when we don't get the results that we desire. Let us give out of responsibility and LOVE and timing and guidance and inspiration. Let us also give to ourselves from the same veins. The more we preserve our own well being, the better we are equipped to help serve others.
God has given us everything we need to be shining stars for Him, let us show gratitude by using them. Be strong, courageous, and confident in those things in which He's blessed you! It's okay to be great or seen as someone special. Seal that in your mind and protect it at all cost. This is the way that we "really" help others, by letting our light shines not by turning it off so that they can appear to have more wattage than they choose to illuminate. They have a bright light as well and are just as responsible to for letting theirs shine as you are. Therefore, choose today to no longer neglect your light, but protect it at all cost so that you may experience the joy of the Lord, which comes from living according to His will for your life.
Lord, we know that it is Your will for us to let our light shine before men so that they may see your good work in us and glorify you. Today, as we make the decision to hold up our individual light, we also give others permission to hold up their own without our interference. This is not easy nor is it natural for us, so please strengthen us in this regard. Today, we aim to be good stewards with our time, talents, and resources as you have given us to do so. We will protect them and use them; and, we will be great as you've predestined for our lives. We thank you and we glorify you! Amen!!!
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Day 32 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
We are more than our names, what people call us and what we call ourselves. We are divine Spirit which is connected to our Source, Our God, and each other. We have potential beyond our wildest dreams and possibilities are all around. If only we knew and could see them, we'd be in awe at how God speaks to us and demonstrates our true connection to Him. I believe that our greatest barrier to seeing our true selves, the power within, and the sense of being perpetually immersed with our own divinity, is our need and desire to protect our false self.
We spend countless hours explaining to others who we "think" we are, what we've done and are going to do, and who we know to our co-workers, friends, strangers, and social media followers. We have an intense and sometimes radical desire to "make" people understand who we've created ourselves to be. I've personally been guilty of saying, "I don't want to lose my identity!" and, I don't. However, the problem with that is that created personality can continue to change over and over and over again, so what are we really protecting?
So, there's nothing wrong with creating personal mantras, branding oneself, sharing your stories, being proud of your family heritage and your last name, or even celebrating your purpose and calling in this world; BUT, what if all of that begin to fade? What happens to us when we can no longer stand on those things? Some would call it an identity crisis where people begin to do all manner of things uncharacteristic of who they said they were! Again, what is there to protect? Our false selves or the person we created ourselves to be can change in a moment. Therefore, why don't we put our stakes in something more lasting, our Spiritual Selves and stop hijacking an identity and covering who we truly are. This is identity theft at its best!
Let us, as women, aim to protect our connection with the Divine? Why don't we insist on having our quiet to time to connect to our Source and true ourselves? Why don't we show people our hearts instead of trying impress them with who we are on paper? Why don't we allow the Spirit in us to reach and connect with the Spirit in others so that people may see their own divinity through us? Let us protect who we really are. If you question who that it is then ask yourself this question, "If I were given 10 days to live, what would I protect, my identity or my Spirit?" At the end of day, how long do you have? I don't know either so let us pray to preserve who we really are and will always be, Spirit!
Lord, I am so grateful that You made us in Your Image! I know we cover it up with an image that we think we should have. Thank you for understanding us though we don't understand ourselves. We humbly ask that your Spirit continues to convict us that He is there inside of us ready to be put on display above our false selves. Help us to grasp, as much as we possibly can, just how divine and powerful we are and commit to protecting that part of us as we love and connect with others. Thank you Father, for hearing and answering this prayer! Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
We spend countless hours explaining to others who we "think" we are, what we've done and are going to do, and who we know to our co-workers, friends, strangers, and social media followers. We have an intense and sometimes radical desire to "make" people understand who we've created ourselves to be. I've personally been guilty of saying, "I don't want to lose my identity!" and, I don't. However, the problem with that is that created personality can continue to change over and over and over again, so what are we really protecting?
So, there's nothing wrong with creating personal mantras, branding oneself, sharing your stories, being proud of your family heritage and your last name, or even celebrating your purpose and calling in this world; BUT, what if all of that begin to fade? What happens to us when we can no longer stand on those things? Some would call it an identity crisis where people begin to do all manner of things uncharacteristic of who they said they were! Again, what is there to protect? Our false selves or the person we created ourselves to be can change in a moment. Therefore, why don't we put our stakes in something more lasting, our Spiritual Selves and stop hijacking an identity and covering who we truly are. This is identity theft at its best!
Let us, as women, aim to protect our connection with the Divine? Why don't we insist on having our quiet to time to connect to our Source and true ourselves? Why don't we show people our hearts instead of trying impress them with who we are on paper? Why don't we allow the Spirit in us to reach and connect with the Spirit in others so that people may see their own divinity through us? Let us protect who we really are. If you question who that it is then ask yourself this question, "If I were given 10 days to live, what would I protect, my identity or my Spirit?" At the end of day, how long do you have? I don't know either so let us pray to preserve who we really are and will always be, Spirit!
Lord, I am so grateful that You made us in Your Image! I know we cover it up with an image that we think we should have. Thank you for understanding us though we don't understand ourselves. We humbly ask that your Spirit continues to convict us that He is there inside of us ready to be put on display above our false selves. Help us to grasp, as much as we possibly can, just how divine and powerful we are and commit to protecting that part of us as we love and connect with others. Thank you Father, for hearing and answering this prayer! Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Day 31 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
You may remember your childhood or teenage years having an experience where you were in danger but you really had no idea. You perhaps realized something was strange, but you clearly had no clue as to the real hazard you faced at that time. In your adult life, you've probably looked back on a couple of experiences and gained a sense of gratitude once you clearly glimpsed the possible threats of what could have happened.
Maybe, it was the time you took off in your parents' car without permission and returned home and they were still asleep. Could it have been that time you spent the night with a friend and her uncle was there too, but never went near him because something just didn't seem right with him only later to find he was a pervert? Consider the time you had a mad crush on the high school jock who wouldn't give you the time of day, but later it was rumored that he brutally beats his girlfriend. Children sometimes have keen sense of danger, but they know it. They will often show signs when something is not quite right; and, as adults we have the same gift of discernment but somehow we think we can outsmart our gut and make wrong situations right. This manipulation has caused us much undue stress and pain.
I thank God for His protection over me as a child, because I know not all of us escaped some of the aforementioned incidents, unscathed. I did not survive all of mine, but I know that things could have been so much worse. What I've come to learn is that women and children are so vulnerable to the evilness and wickedness of others. For some reason they are seen as the weaker species; therefore, they become prey for people will ill intentions. BUT GOD!!!!
God has given us His spirit to nudge us and guide us. Though we have all been subjected to some things outside of our control, I am thankful that we have not been affected by everything that could have been possible. I thank God for His protection. I thank Him for His warning signs. I truly believe that it is He desire to be our refuge and strength now just as He was when we were children. I believe that we have angels standing guard over us which protect us from dangers seen and unseen. Now, let us recognize this and ask for His covering and guidance everyday. Then, let us obey that internal nudge which is there to keep us safe.
Father God, I thank You for being a strong tower, a mighty force, a defender, and a protector. I ask that You spread an impenetrable barrier around me and my sisters right now to keep us from all physical harm. I ask that you give us the mind of Christ so that we may preserve our thoughts and feeling and remain immune to the mental and emotional tactics of the enemies and the people He uses. Lord, we recognize that You are omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent; therefore, we are competent in your ability and your willingness to stay with us and protect us at all times. We thank you as we rest in that assurance. Praise Your Name Lord and Amen!!!
Maybe, it was the time you took off in your parents' car without permission and returned home and they were still asleep. Could it have been that time you spent the night with a friend and her uncle was there too, but never went near him because something just didn't seem right with him only later to find he was a pervert? Consider the time you had a mad crush on the high school jock who wouldn't give you the time of day, but later it was rumored that he brutally beats his girlfriend. Children sometimes have keen sense of danger, but they know it. They will often show signs when something is not quite right; and, as adults we have the same gift of discernment but somehow we think we can outsmart our gut and make wrong situations right. This manipulation has caused us much undue stress and pain.
I thank God for His protection over me as a child, because I know not all of us escaped some of the aforementioned incidents, unscathed. I did not survive all of mine, but I know that things could have been so much worse. What I've come to learn is that women and children are so vulnerable to the evilness and wickedness of others. For some reason they are seen as the weaker species; therefore, they become prey for people will ill intentions. BUT GOD!!!!
God has given us His spirit to nudge us and guide us. Though we have all been subjected to some things outside of our control, I am thankful that we have not been affected by everything that could have been possible. I thank God for His protection. I thank Him for His warning signs. I truly believe that it is He desire to be our refuge and strength now just as He was when we were children. I believe that we have angels standing guard over us which protect us from dangers seen and unseen. Now, let us recognize this and ask for His covering and guidance everyday. Then, let us obey that internal nudge which is there to keep us safe.
Father God, I thank You for being a strong tower, a mighty force, a defender, and a protector. I ask that You spread an impenetrable barrier around me and my sisters right now to keep us from all physical harm. I ask that you give us the mind of Christ so that we may preserve our thoughts and feeling and remain immune to the mental and emotional tactics of the enemies and the people He uses. Lord, we recognize that You are omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent; therefore, we are competent in your ability and your willingness to stay with us and protect us at all times. We thank you as we rest in that assurance. Praise Your Name Lord and Amen!!!
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Day 30 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
Typically,
when we find our groove and really feel confident in our purpose there are some
real challenges that we face. The main one is the ego. I’ve read
that E.G.O. means (Edging God Out). You see where there's much praise and
accolades from men then there's much dependence upon him as well. Once
people begin to receive fame and recognition, if they're not careful they begin
to think "I did this!" Don't get me wrong, "YOU did!"
The challenge however, is to remain in that place where the magic happen, the
place of love, humility, and prayer.
The setup
is that once you begin to think that you did it all, then when there are
failures or disappointments and the praises are put on pause, then you think
that you are fully responsible as well; and, many cannot bounce back from such distress.
On the other hand, when you remain in humility, such occurrences are not
devastating, they are seen as new opportunities. Humility leaves us open
to God and creative flow where we know all things are working for our good.
E.G.O. shuts us out from our Source and the infinite possibilities that He
provides. We can accomplish much with the ego, but nearly what we can when
our self-reliance is wrapped in our reliance on God. So, check your ego at the
door!
Challenge number two
is that the passion tied to your purpose which can make one react at times when
their destiny feels or appears threatened. Remember that passion can
bring us, both, pleasure and pain: It's all in how you utilize it. It's
certainly powerful, but you want to harness it to bring under control and hone
it as to allow it to direct you in the way of success. Think of it like
this. Make your passion a hemostat not a thermometer. You set
the dial and determine the climate instead of letting it tell you how hot or
cold you are. Be in full control of your passion and power and you will
be in full control of your purpose.
Next, lighten
up! Never take yourself so seriously
that you cannot enjoy your life, your family and friends, your purpose.
Life is a journey; and, what does it prosper a woman to gain the world and lose
her soul? Of course your dreams and purpose can bring you much
prosperity, but you must not attach yourself solely to the end results or you
will have on bumpy and miserable ride.
When living a purpose driven life, you should be joyful and at peace;
so, employ a child-like nature and play well with others. Share your
gifts, times, and your life. Work and play and play while you work.
You are suppose enjoy what you do and the moment it isn't fun, you are no
longer in the flow. Stay light!
Lastly, try hard
not to become overwhelmed with the big picture. An elephant is eaten one
bite at a time. By all means dream BIG, but if you’re looking for
overnight success, you might just get it but as a one-hit wonder.
Nothing worth having comes quickly and easily. Allow yourself to
marinate, slow cook, make mistakes, learn and grow, add and subtract; but,
keep moving. Just take one step at a time. Will you know all that
you need to know to get you to your destination? Absolutely NOT! But, will you know what you need to know when
you need to know it? Absolutely!!!!
Crawl, walk, run. Living your life on purpose is not a sprint or dash, it's a
marathon!
Oh Lord, we
bless YOU right now for making us in your image and giving us divine
purpose! We are so thankful that you see
us as worthy to keep doing wonderful and magnificent things on the earth you’ve
created. It’s overwhelming. So, please speak to us when our egos are
running the show, convict us in our arrogance and when we are trying to be
You. Touch me and my sisters right now with
your finger of peace to relieve us of the overwhelming feeling that they must
do it all. Remind us often that’s not
Your way. Lead and guide us, Holy
Spirit, in what we are to do and also make us rest to allow you to do for us that
which we are not capable of doing for ourselves. We thank You and we praise You! Amen!
Monday, August 24, 2015
Day 29 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
Sometimes your dreams burn in your bellies. Literally,
some of you are up at night holding your stomachs because there
are knots in them causing a nagging, dull, and seemingly unreachable
and incurable pain. You're lying there after busying yourself with
daily work, chores, and activities and now your reality has set it
again. You know that you are here to something else, something
fulfilling, something life-changing, something amazing and here’s another day
wasted and now you must wrestle with another sleepless night because you have
done nothing about it.
Sometimes, our lackadaisical approach can stem from thinking we are not
ready and other times complete fear; but there are times when we are
completely burned out or just don't where to turn. It is during these
times, we feel the most imprisoned and just need to be empowered to freedom
through a good word, a fresh idea, and/or an epiphany. If this is your
experience, know that it's quite natural for your paths to become clogged
from time to time; but, there are ways to clear the passage. Here are few of the ways to unleash your
purpose driven life....
1) Commit to personal growth - always look for workshops, groups, or
materials where you can continue to learn more about your gifts or how to
develop yourself personally. Nothing stays the same, so we have to change
with the time. We glow when we grow.
2) Devise a plan - I know you've heard it said, "When we fail to
plan, we plan to fail." Always have a small next steps goal and plan
for your next feasible level. Make it specific, measurable, attainable,
realistic, and time bound.
3) Verbally speak who/what you are to become - when alone, speak
out aloud as you proclaim who you are to become and what you are to do. Speak
them as if you are that being and are doing all those great things right
now. Stop wanting and longing and start being! Just imagine that
you are and be!
4) Journal your dreams/visions - Write out your hearts desires, draw
pictures when they come to your mind, and when you find photos, magazine and
newspaper articles along with other artifacts that inspire you, cut them out
tape them to a mirror, cardboard or poster board. Use them as your
inspiration as much as necessary.
5) Establish an accountability team - Surround yourself with
people who believe in you and your purpose more than you do. You may
think, “How is that possible?” Well, the dreamer becomes discouraged
because he/she is more intricately tied to the vision, but the outsiders have less
to lose than the dreamer, so they are able to remain optimistic in the
toughest times. Share with them your dreams and ask for support when you
are fearful.
6) Remove self from dream killers - Nothing much to say here
other than you know who they are; so, stop telling them everything and get as
far away from them as you possibly can.
7) Affirm yourself, daily! - Do not let one day go by without
having a little self-talk and make declarations about your purpose. Use
"I AM" statements, NOT "I want to be" and do it until your
heart gets the news. You will know it from the smile on your face,
tears in your eyes, and joy in your spirit.
Father God, You have given us authority over our lives, please help us
understand it and use it for our good! It has been said that whatsoever
we ask, we shall have if we believe. So, please help my sister's
unbelief, give her a mind that tells her she is worthy to live out her purpose,
gives her creative ideas, knows right and wrong paths, and gives her intense
focus to follow that which you've placed inside her. Give her the words
of TRUTH to write and speak in a language and expression which will get her
attention and move her to action again. I believe that it's done.
Thank you and Amen!!!
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Day 28 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
Identifying your purpose is really not complicated. It just boils down to knowing yourself, accepting yourself, loving what you have to offer, and then offering it. It is when we go against what we are born to do that life feels like a struggle and our reason for being here appears complicated. There are challenges that you will experience while living out your purpose, but those hurdles are just that. We tend to jump them and keep going.
There are few things that will help serve as a guide when you're wondering whether you're still on track and they are as follows:
Your Purpose...
#IAmMySistersKeeper
There are few things that will help serve as a guide when you're wondering whether you're still on track and they are as follows:
Your Purpose...
P
–
Usually involves helping PEOPLE. Whether you have a very creative niche to create things which give people a better quality of life or whether you're a gifted at helping wounded people heal, your purpose will more involve improving others' lives in some way.
U –
Can only be fulfilled by YOU!!! So many times, we attempt to pass on our gifts to others and attempt to live vicariously through a younger and more confident soul. That person may possess the same gift and talents as you but will never be able to do what you do they way you do and vice-versa.
R –
Keeps you RELEVANT. No matter how old you get or how long you've been living out your purpose, when you stay in the flow of creativity and stay focused on you're craft then people, situations, and events will continue to come your way time after time. You will instantly modify with the times and continue to develop. Also, when it's time to do something else, you will adjust with ease and still be just as successful as long as you stay open to creativity and believe that you are here to something which only you can do.
P –
When you're walking in it, you are POWERFUL!!!! People are in awe of you and how effortless you perform, speak, operate, work, and give when you are flowing in purpose. You appear powerful to all, because you are powerful. Living on purpose and in your purpose is living in Power. You are literally invincible (not from an arrogant place, but from a loving place where you are truly loving yourself, what God has given you, and using it).
O –
May appear OMINOUS sometimes. Yes, as beautiful and promising as your purpose is, there are times when you will think and feel completely opposite about them. Our dreams and purpose can feel so out of reach sometimes; and, it's completely necessary because our purpose is larger than us. Though you may function effortlessly within your purpose, your accomplishments are not suppose to be easy. If you don't have to employ some amount of faith, you'd never know how great your calling and how important it is for us to do what we are born to do.
S –
Gives you a sense of SATISFACTION. Walking in your purpose always makes you feel fulfilled, joyful, and happy. There are times you will be exhausted from carrying out your calling, but never too tired to do it again.
E –
Makes it easy to operate in EXCELLENCE!!!!! You always want to do your very best when you know that you are doing that thing which only you can do the way that you do it. When the world is waiting and watching, you always give 100%, not for yourself but for them. This is a true act of service and a great way to know that you are purposed to do that thing at that very moment.
Lord, I thank you for my sister reading this right now!! I ask that you speak to her in a way that she understands and let her know just how important she is and remind her that she is powerful and there is nothing to fear when things seem complicated. We know that it takes faith to walk in a purpose filled life and we are thankful that you are here as our guide, our strength, and our encourager. We will operate in excellence as we serve the people you've entrusted to us and make a lasting impact on their lives. Your spirit lives in us; therefore, we know that though it may not always seem easy as long as we accept who we are in you, we will function effortlessly in fulfilling the dreams you've placed inside of us! Thank you, Father, and Amen!!!
Saturday, August 22, 2015
Day 27 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
One way to flow happily in purpose is to celebrate others with the same gifts and talents you possess versus seeing them as the competition. Healthy competition is great for keeping one energized working towards goals, but the problem with competition is that it can go awry rather quickly especially when you stop looking at the goal as the aim and begin to view beating another person as the real victory. I understand that when you are sprinting you want to come in first, but the focus is not beating the opponent, it's about beating his record. There are some who experience some success while being unhealthily competitive, but there's no telling what they lose along the way; happiness, health, relationships, perspective, and victories.
If you really want to live on purpose, then position yourself to think creatively not competitively. Place your focus on unconventional ways to grow better at your craft. Open your mind to the unknown and allow yourself to lose sight of being the expert. There's so much out there to learn in your field, but you'll never gain entry to that level of knowledge if you always think that you know it all. While on this journey to mastery, allow yourself moments of appreciation and celebration even when you make minimal strides. Then back to work. Study your competitors, but not long or obsession may steal your energy. Jealousy may even set in and make you distracted and self-destructive. Instead, become so laser focus on your own personal power, strengths, creativity, and possibilities, that your improvements seem to develop without much effort at all. Creativity puts you in a place of flow whereas competition causes you to struggle and strive.
When you are living our your purpose you don't want to strive, you want to thrive! When you are living purposefully, you are like the spring flower which effortlessly shoots up and break open at the first hint of Spring. It bows to the morning dew, smiles back at the sun, and sways with the breeze. When it's season is over, it takes its rest until it is time to shine again. You, my sister, are even more significant that. If God consider the birds and flowers and allow them to be recognized with awe for their unique attributes and gifts, how much more does He desire for you? If you're that dancer, just dance! If you're a singer, just sing! If you are in ministry, just minister. Go inward, hibernate, take time to develop yourself, then shine. Do it again and again. Moreover, be sure to give thanks to the gift giver and show forth all that has been entrusted to you; but, never ever feel like you have to compare yourself to anyone else or compete with them. You are you for a reason! Just Be! Just Shine!
Oh Lord, give my sister the confidence of Christ! Let her know that You've called her to greatness and that she nor her talents and abilities are mistakes. I cry out for the broken one who doesn't know her worth, who doesn't know that is her birthright to be gorgeous, smart, fabulous, and a light in the world of many in need of what she has to offer: Heal her heart and mind! Deliver her from deception and doubt! Restore to her that first glimpse of her life's purpose; and, give her strength and courage to be creative. I ask that you bless the woman reading this and help her choose to never to compete with others, but that she will set goals and focus on her purpose. Also, give her a celebratory spirit which allows her to be happy for other women and to give credit where credit is due! Intervene now for her if she's had to face other women's hate of her because her unique talents and because her light continue to shine. Deal with her enemies and protect her from their energy, I pray. Thank you & Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
If you really want to live on purpose, then position yourself to think creatively not competitively. Place your focus on unconventional ways to grow better at your craft. Open your mind to the unknown and allow yourself to lose sight of being the expert. There's so much out there to learn in your field, but you'll never gain entry to that level of knowledge if you always think that you know it all. While on this journey to mastery, allow yourself moments of appreciation and celebration even when you make minimal strides. Then back to work. Study your competitors, but not long or obsession may steal your energy. Jealousy may even set in and make you distracted and self-destructive. Instead, become so laser focus on your own personal power, strengths, creativity, and possibilities, that your improvements seem to develop without much effort at all. Creativity puts you in a place of flow whereas competition causes you to struggle and strive.
When you are living our your purpose you don't want to strive, you want to thrive! When you are living purposefully, you are like the spring flower which effortlessly shoots up and break open at the first hint of Spring. It bows to the morning dew, smiles back at the sun, and sways with the breeze. When it's season is over, it takes its rest until it is time to shine again. You, my sister, are even more significant that. If God consider the birds and flowers and allow them to be recognized with awe for their unique attributes and gifts, how much more does He desire for you? If you're that dancer, just dance! If you're a singer, just sing! If you are in ministry, just minister. Go inward, hibernate, take time to develop yourself, then shine. Do it again and again. Moreover, be sure to give thanks to the gift giver and show forth all that has been entrusted to you; but, never ever feel like you have to compare yourself to anyone else or compete with them. You are you for a reason! Just Be! Just Shine!
Oh Lord, give my sister the confidence of Christ! Let her know that You've called her to greatness and that she nor her talents and abilities are mistakes. I cry out for the broken one who doesn't know her worth, who doesn't know that is her birthright to be gorgeous, smart, fabulous, and a light in the world of many in need of what she has to offer: Heal her heart and mind! Deliver her from deception and doubt! Restore to her that first glimpse of her life's purpose; and, give her strength and courage to be creative. I ask that you bless the woman reading this and help her choose to never to compete with others, but that she will set goals and focus on her purpose. Also, give her a celebratory spirit which allows her to be happy for other women and to give credit where credit is due! Intervene now for her if she's had to face other women's hate of her because her unique talents and because her light continue to shine. Deal with her enemies and protect her from their energy, I pray. Thank you & Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Friday, August 21, 2015
Day 26 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
You can probably think back to a time when you were so overworked or burdened down with life activities that you were tempted to dismiss the planned tasks tied to living out your purpose. It was more than likely last week or maybe even yesterday; yet, you pushed through because you knew if you did not you may feel guilt and disappointment. Well, you are not alone. There is never enough time to do everything. If you are not one of those people who works in your "main" area of purpose and maybe you have to work to fund your purpose, then sometimes purpose can get pushed to the wayside and overlooked. You've got to live, right?
What I've found is that those times that I did not do the things I'd plan to do in order to fulfill my writing, speaking, and empowerment activities, were moments that I felt I was not living. Sometimes, I felt completely lifeless. Therefore, I'd just push through and find that my pushing and the accomplishments and inner fulfillment I would gain was worth the extra 60 minutes that I challenged myself before bed or that hour earlier that I'd set my alarm clock in order to be brilliantly purposeful before the daily rat race began. Your purpose should push you too! It's not our packed schedules that exhausts us, it is when we don't do what we've purposed in our hearts as meaningful and necessary that really sucks the life out of us.
So, remember that when you are squeezing everything in your weekly calendar; social events, happy hour with friends, television, and social media, those are times that you can plug and work on your calling in this world. Some things are unavoidable like family time, the nine-to-five, house chores and dinner preparation; but, we do manage to fill our calendars' empty space with time busters as well. Especially, as women, we often feel like we need to be all things to all people; and, in the end that attitude causes many of us to look back when we reach age 30, 40, 50, 60 and even older and ask, "What in the heck did I do? How did my dream disappear? How did I allow you to take all of my time?"
Ladies, please schedule your time wisely and don't put off purpose for tomorrow. Balance your life by filling your empty spaces with purposeful living. That's not to say that you are not to ever be social, but don't allow social activities to fill your empty spaces when you've not put in ample time working on the very thing which gives you life. Plan your calendar every week and list your time to practice purposeful living before social living instead of overwhelming yourself when attempting to squeeze it in after time is wasted and instead of allowing life to pass you by wondering where the time went.
Father, I pray for my sister right now that she will live on purpose. I ask that you create in her in a clean heart and renew the right spirit within her. Replace laziness with energy and strong intention. Free her from people, places, and things which waste her time and rob her of opportunity to shine while operating in her gift. Give her a mind that is focused and clear and organized thoughts which creates lofty yet attainable plans. Lord, bless her with your grace and power so that she will achieve her life dreams and live a life where You glorified. Thank you and Amen!!!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
What I've found is that those times that I did not do the things I'd plan to do in order to fulfill my writing, speaking, and empowerment activities, were moments that I felt I was not living. Sometimes, I felt completely lifeless. Therefore, I'd just push through and find that my pushing and the accomplishments and inner fulfillment I would gain was worth the extra 60 minutes that I challenged myself before bed or that hour earlier that I'd set my alarm clock in order to be brilliantly purposeful before the daily rat race began. Your purpose should push you too! It's not our packed schedules that exhausts us, it is when we don't do what we've purposed in our hearts as meaningful and necessary that really sucks the life out of us.
So, remember that when you are squeezing everything in your weekly calendar; social events, happy hour with friends, television, and social media, those are times that you can plug and work on your calling in this world. Some things are unavoidable like family time, the nine-to-five, house chores and dinner preparation; but, we do manage to fill our calendars' empty space with time busters as well. Especially, as women, we often feel like we need to be all things to all people; and, in the end that attitude causes many of us to look back when we reach age 30, 40, 50, 60 and even older and ask, "What in the heck did I do? How did my dream disappear? How did I allow you to take all of my time?"
Ladies, please schedule your time wisely and don't put off purpose for tomorrow. Balance your life by filling your empty spaces with purposeful living. That's not to say that you are not to ever be social, but don't allow social activities to fill your empty spaces when you've not put in ample time working on the very thing which gives you life. Plan your calendar every week and list your time to practice purposeful living before social living instead of overwhelming yourself when attempting to squeeze it in after time is wasted and instead of allowing life to pass you by wondering where the time went.
Father, I pray for my sister right now that she will live on purpose. I ask that you create in her in a clean heart and renew the right spirit within her. Replace laziness with energy and strong intention. Free her from people, places, and things which waste her time and rob her of opportunity to shine while operating in her gift. Give her a mind that is focused and clear and organized thoughts which creates lofty yet attainable plans. Lord, bless her with your grace and power so that she will achieve her life dreams and live a life where You glorified. Thank you and Amen!!!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Day 25 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
"I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon a tower, and will watch to see what I shall answer when I am reproved. And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry." Habakkuk 2:1-3
Most of the time it is nearly impossible to fathom what we've been purposed to do on this earth. We struggle with grasping our worthiness to do what others consider unthinkable and we find it hard to wrap our minds around being great, awesome, and amazing; and, that is whether we've been called to care for a terminally ill child of spouse, quit your job to move in and tend to elderly parents, sing in the opera, write a best seller, or minister in Africa. No matter what our purpose, once we identify it, we sometimes grow impatient in doing well, practicing, planning and living with our purpose tucked away in our minds and hearts. But just as the aforementioned scripture stated, that though it tarry wait on it. It will surely come!
While waiting, take time to keep dreaming more and bigger, and when the picture is most vivid, write the vision and make it plain. At some point, you should be able to see yourself doing what your are purposed to do, but you need to be able to see it all the time. So, write it down in words, drawings, and/or pictures. Make it clear and compelling where your supporters will run with it and be the hands, feet, and lips which help bring it life. People will help you and follow you; however, you must stay in faith while waiting. Then, so will they. When, to time is right for your purpose to be fulfilled, it will not tarry any longer. So remain faithful, optimistic, resilient, clear, and in action towards your purpose. You will not be sorry!
Lord, I am so thankful for this lesson on waiting. It is during these times that we exercise our faith. We know that you have something special that only each of us can do on this earth; and, today, we accept it. We know that it will bring you glory as others look upon us in awe knowing that something greater is working with us, and they'll be drawn to you through us. We are writing it down, today, either in words, pictures, or both and sharing it only with those who've been assigned to help carry it out. We will remain in faith while waiting for the manifestation. Thank you for guidance & Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Most of the time it is nearly impossible to fathom what we've been purposed to do on this earth. We struggle with grasping our worthiness to do what others consider unthinkable and we find it hard to wrap our minds around being great, awesome, and amazing; and, that is whether we've been called to care for a terminally ill child of spouse, quit your job to move in and tend to elderly parents, sing in the opera, write a best seller, or minister in Africa. No matter what our purpose, once we identify it, we sometimes grow impatient in doing well, practicing, planning and living with our purpose tucked away in our minds and hearts. But just as the aforementioned scripture stated, that though it tarry wait on it. It will surely come!
While waiting, take time to keep dreaming more and bigger, and when the picture is most vivid, write the vision and make it plain. At some point, you should be able to see yourself doing what your are purposed to do, but you need to be able to see it all the time. So, write it down in words, drawings, and/or pictures. Make it clear and compelling where your supporters will run with it and be the hands, feet, and lips which help bring it life. People will help you and follow you; however, you must stay in faith while waiting. Then, so will they. When, to time is right for your purpose to be fulfilled, it will not tarry any longer. So remain faithful, optimistic, resilient, clear, and in action towards your purpose. You will not be sorry!
Lord, I am so thankful for this lesson on waiting. It is during these times that we exercise our faith. We know that you have something special that only each of us can do on this earth; and, today, we accept it. We know that it will bring you glory as others look upon us in awe knowing that something greater is working with us, and they'll be drawn to you through us. We are writing it down, today, either in words, pictures, or both and sharing it only with those who've been assigned to help carry it out. We will remain in faith while waiting for the manifestation. Thank you for guidance & Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Day 24 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
An extreme level of passion is usually tied to your purpose. Passion which I refer to as fire gets you going but can also shut you down when it's not managed. For instance, fire heats your house but can also burn your house down. Like fire, passion is vital to man's survival but must be managed and contained to a degree as to not destroy him. It is almost impossible to fulfill one's purpose without an ongoing intense desire and enthusiasm for what you are called to do on this earth; but, that emotion has to be harnessed in order to share it with those who will help you fulfill your purpose.
There are countless people who are ready to be inspired by you and who are just waiting to jump on board something great and meaningful; so, it is important that you remain aware of how to share our passions and purpose with others in a way that compels them to join you. Here are few suggestions on how to share your purpose with passion without running people away.
1) Know exactly what your purpose is. Clarify, modify, and simplify so that it doesn't take longer than 60 seconds to share it.
2) Smile and show enthusiasm without getting in people's personal space and making them feel forced to agree.
3) Watch the tone of your voice (passion has a little bit of pain and anger in it), and speak confidently using body language (if needed), but use your inside voice. It is okay to raise your voice a tad to emphasize certain points, just remain keenly aware of your facial expressions, body language, and tone.
4) Be assertive but not aggressive when seeking support from others, which means be bold, confident, forthright but don't be forceful, insisting, and arrogant.
5) Do NOT look disappointed when others don't get it. Do NOT ridicule them and their advice if they think you should tweak what you do of suggest you do something else. Always be optimistic about your purpose no matter anyone else's opinion.
For women, this is particularly important, because we care too much about what others think even when we've had our great epiphany and no without the shadow of doubt what we are here to do. Many of us will remain stagnate for years and sometimes forever because we've not received the endorsements think we need. We can no longer do this. This world need our gifts and need us to live out our purpose. When we begin to do this in mass numbers, there will be an incredible shift towards good in this world. So, get fired up, ladies, and let your passion drive your purpose.
Father, I thank you so much for giving us purpose and for giving us an internal fire to help guide us to it. Please give us wisdom as to how to use our passion to influence others who can help us fulfill our purpose, and give us the courage to keep going even when we're facing rejection. Change our minds where we will be more concerned with pleasing you than we are with pleasing others. We know that it pleases you when we live with purpose. Give us the resiliency of Christ and guide us with your Spirit!!! Thank you and Amen!!!
There are countless people who are ready to be inspired by you and who are just waiting to jump on board something great and meaningful; so, it is important that you remain aware of how to share our passions and purpose with others in a way that compels them to join you. Here are few suggestions on how to share your purpose with passion without running people away.
1) Know exactly what your purpose is. Clarify, modify, and simplify so that it doesn't take longer than 60 seconds to share it.
2) Smile and show enthusiasm without getting in people's personal space and making them feel forced to agree.
3) Watch the tone of your voice (passion has a little bit of pain and anger in it), and speak confidently using body language (if needed), but use your inside voice. It is okay to raise your voice a tad to emphasize certain points, just remain keenly aware of your facial expressions, body language, and tone.
4) Be assertive but not aggressive when seeking support from others, which means be bold, confident, forthright but don't be forceful, insisting, and arrogant.
5) Do NOT look disappointed when others don't get it. Do NOT ridicule them and their advice if they think you should tweak what you do of suggest you do something else. Always be optimistic about your purpose no matter anyone else's opinion.
For women, this is particularly important, because we care too much about what others think even when we've had our great epiphany and no without the shadow of doubt what we are here to do. Many of us will remain stagnate for years and sometimes forever because we've not received the endorsements think we need. We can no longer do this. This world need our gifts and need us to live out our purpose. When we begin to do this in mass numbers, there will be an incredible shift towards good in this world. So, get fired up, ladies, and let your passion drive your purpose.
Father, I thank you so much for giving us purpose and for giving us an internal fire to help guide us to it. Please give us wisdom as to how to use our passion to influence others who can help us fulfill our purpose, and give us the courage to keep going even when we're facing rejection. Change our minds where we will be more concerned with pleasing you than we are with pleasing others. We know that it pleases you when we live with purpose. Give us the resiliency of Christ and guide us with your Spirit!!! Thank you and Amen!!!
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Day 23 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
When you live on purpose, you must learn the power of NO!!! One of the greatest distractions to living on purpose is to try and do everything someone asks of you. When you are gifted, especially with multiple talents, you will be asked by many to help them fulfill their agenda. Now, it will not be stated that way, but at the end of the day that is exactly what it is. I am not suggesting that you don't ever help others or even do some things free or extremely cheap, but get clear about whether this is a part of the service to your friends, family, church, or community that you want to do. Just be sure to know yourself, know others, and be deliberate about living out your purpose the way you think your suppose to not the way others think you should.
When you live on purpose and with purpose, you should be intentional. That means you intend to do what you decided you are supposed to do on this earth and you intend not allow others' desires of you hinder your purpose. Also, you have to be intentional about balance, balancing family, friends, church, community, and purpose; but, determine what's ideal and realistic to you. When you are truly living on purpose, it usually doesn't cause harm to others, it doesn't feel a lot like work to you, and others enjoy seeing you living that way. However, there will always be someone tugging at you for something other than what you want to do. At those times, know the power of the word, "NO".
I've been amazed by the number of tasks in which I've involved myself, just because someone asked and convinced me that this fits right into what you do or told me, "this is what you're all about", only to later realize that I'd gotten caught up in another unfulfilling project, which left me feeling everything but purposeful. You see, when we are living on purpose their is a certain flow and ease we feel. Not that we don't ever have a little stress of frustration when living with purpose, but even during the toughest times, there's this effortless resiliency driving you. When I finally decided to get off the others' bandwagons, I would always be surprised and elated to discover the perfect opportunities that would open up for me. In those moments, I knew I was back on track; but, I could have saved myself a lot of wasted time and energy had I just waited to evaluate, think about it, feel it, and say, "NO" when I concluded that is was a close second but the real deal for me. My Purpose - I get to choose! Your Purpose - You get to choose!
Lord, we thank you for the power of NO and for free will. We know that our hearts plan our way, but you order our steps. We thank you that when we get off the path, You provide a crossroad experience to navigate us back to our divine purpose. We thank you for doing it again and again. Feel us with Your love and Your courage so that we may love ourselves and others enough to tell them what we think they don't want to hear, which is NO and to stay true to our purpose. We love you and we thank you for loving us!!!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
When you live on purpose and with purpose, you should be intentional. That means you intend to do what you decided you are supposed to do on this earth and you intend not allow others' desires of you hinder your purpose. Also, you have to be intentional about balance, balancing family, friends, church, community, and purpose; but, determine what's ideal and realistic to you. When you are truly living on purpose, it usually doesn't cause harm to others, it doesn't feel a lot like work to you, and others enjoy seeing you living that way. However, there will always be someone tugging at you for something other than what you want to do. At those times, know the power of the word, "NO".
I've been amazed by the number of tasks in which I've involved myself, just because someone asked and convinced me that this fits right into what you do or told me, "this is what you're all about", only to later realize that I'd gotten caught up in another unfulfilling project, which left me feeling everything but purposeful. You see, when we are living on purpose their is a certain flow and ease we feel. Not that we don't ever have a little stress of frustration when living with purpose, but even during the toughest times, there's this effortless resiliency driving you. When I finally decided to get off the others' bandwagons, I would always be surprised and elated to discover the perfect opportunities that would open up for me. In those moments, I knew I was back on track; but, I could have saved myself a lot of wasted time and energy had I just waited to evaluate, think about it, feel it, and say, "NO" when I concluded that is was a close second but the real deal for me. My Purpose - I get to choose! Your Purpose - You get to choose!
Lord, we thank you for the power of NO and for free will. We know that our hearts plan our way, but you order our steps. We thank you that when we get off the path, You provide a crossroad experience to navigate us back to our divine purpose. We thank you for doing it again and again. Feel us with Your love and Your courage so that we may love ourselves and others enough to tell them what we think they don't want to hear, which is NO and to stay true to our purpose. We love you and we thank you for loving us!!!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Day 22 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
Many people attempt to live their lives in a bubble thinking that if they don't allow themselves to love or establish friendships they don't have to worry about being hurt. How will one ever make a difference or bring light into the world by living as a recluse? I am not referring to introverts, but those who are very intentional about not connecting with other people. This state of being is purposeless and harmful to the one who chooses to live cut off from the world; for, I truly believe there is something inside of us all that knows, "I matter. I am here for something greater. I am special and can do special things to help others." In fact, disconnecting hurts far more than connecting and experiencing disappointment. Living separate cuts off the flow of life and abundance and leaves one feeling desolate and insignificant. That's no way to live. It's not living at all.
Living on purpose is no doubt a risk. It is more than possible that you will be dissatisfied by others' rejection of you or how someone takes advantage of your gifts and kindness. It's pretty much inevitable. However, your joy should not be placed in your back pocket over a few bumps and bruises. Plus, their are tens, hundreds, and maybe even thousands waiting for you to show up in a way that only you can. So, are you willing to allow one or two haters, hurters, and petty thieves have your abilities, your voice, your skills, your talents? Surely not! You're back pocket is not the place for your purpose, but out front in the open and on a mountain top for all to see your light. So don't shrink but live, live on purpose, and full of purpose.
Your purpose will always cost you something: Remember that! It will cause some ridicule and others questioning your motives. People will use, abuse, and not pay you for your craft. You will second guess and doubt yourself. You will push the pause button and go periods of time neglecting your gift. There will even be moments when you will feel completely certain that you've made the biggest mistake of your life. During those moments is when you should push the most, live on purpose anyway, write that song anyway, show up for practice anyway, practice that speech in the mirror anyway, minister to the homeless man under the bridge anyway. Decide from the beginning that you will break any curse, destroy any lie you tell yourself, and be purposeful no matter how you feel. Why? Because, many people are depending on you, but more than anything YOU are depending on YOU!!!
Our most gracious, kind, and loving God wrap my sister in your love and confidence so that she will know that she matters, she has purpose, and she can do things in this world that only she can do whether it is for an individual, a small group, or the masses. I pray that you remove any doubt that may cause debilitation, but energize her to serve again and with gladness. It is written, "that you know the plans you have for us, plans to prosper us, to give us hope and future and not to harm us." Today, I pray that we fully receive those words, own them, and operate from them daily. It is our desire to live our life on purpose for those who've assigned to us. Guide us, we pray! Amen!
Living on purpose is no doubt a risk. It is more than possible that you will be dissatisfied by others' rejection of you or how someone takes advantage of your gifts and kindness. It's pretty much inevitable. However, your joy should not be placed in your back pocket over a few bumps and bruises. Plus, their are tens, hundreds, and maybe even thousands waiting for you to show up in a way that only you can. So, are you willing to allow one or two haters, hurters, and petty thieves have your abilities, your voice, your skills, your talents? Surely not! You're back pocket is not the place for your purpose, but out front in the open and on a mountain top for all to see your light. So don't shrink but live, live on purpose, and full of purpose.
Your purpose will always cost you something: Remember that! It will cause some ridicule and others questioning your motives. People will use, abuse, and not pay you for your craft. You will second guess and doubt yourself. You will push the pause button and go periods of time neglecting your gift. There will even be moments when you will feel completely certain that you've made the biggest mistake of your life. During those moments is when you should push the most, live on purpose anyway, write that song anyway, show up for practice anyway, practice that speech in the mirror anyway, minister to the homeless man under the bridge anyway. Decide from the beginning that you will break any curse, destroy any lie you tell yourself, and be purposeful no matter how you feel. Why? Because, many people are depending on you, but more than anything YOU are depending on YOU!!!
Our most gracious, kind, and loving God wrap my sister in your love and confidence so that she will know that she matters, she has purpose, and she can do things in this world that only she can do whether it is for an individual, a small group, or the masses. I pray that you remove any doubt that may cause debilitation, but energize her to serve again and with gladness. It is written, "that you know the plans you have for us, plans to prosper us, to give us hope and future and not to harm us." Today, I pray that we fully receive those words, own them, and operate from them daily. It is our desire to live our life on purpose for those who've assigned to us. Guide us, we pray! Amen!
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Day 21 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
What is your PURPOSE? Just like love and forgiveness, you get to choose. Some people spend years trying to find their purpose and all the while they were already living it or missing it because they were searching for something outside of themselves. We all have been gifted with some amazing talents, skills, experiences, and passions which make us unique and powerful beings. God gives us life and what we do with our lives is our expression of gratitude. He also give us these unique gifts and talents; and, when we share those things with others, we are living in our purpose. What better way could we say thank you than by blessing others and glorifying God with the collection of things He's given each of us that makes us so amazing?
Some may say, "Well, I am a singer, but there are many people with the same gift." Another may say, "I am a writer, a dancer, and an engineer, but I have a friend who possesses the exact same combination of gifts and talents. So, how am I so special?" The same is true for every one: None of us hold the keys to a particular talent, skill, gift, etc., alone. But, no one else will use them exactly the way you will. Combined with who your are, your life story, your trials and challenges, your goals and desires, and many other facets, there is no one else who can do what you do quite the way you do. There are people who will touch lives you'll never be able to touch and you will reach people as only you can reach. All of us are a designer's original destined to do things as only we can do and for the people we have been assigned! It is not your business to compare yourself to others and determine their chosen demographics. Your job is to simply BE who God has created you to be, DO what He has called you to do (use your gifts), and LET everyone else do the same, so that God is glorified!!!
It's not complicated. There's nothing to figure out. Just be!!! If you are someone who has forgotten how to do that, just stop where you are right now and give yourself permission to think about you, your hopes, desires, what makes you tick, smile, shine, what is it that you do so well and just do it. I love writing and speaking; thus, I am writing and I speak every chance I get. I don't just like to do it; but, God has gifted me to write and speak. Therefore, when I do either of them, He is glorified. My obedience gives people the opportunity to experience God in a major way, not everyone, but many. That's another thing about purpose, you cannot focus on those who don't accept your gifts, just focus on the gift giver and given gratitude to Him with your obedience to share those gifts with those who are waiting on you, accepting you, pushing you, needing you, and celebrating you. That's your purpose!
Father, thank you so much for making me different from everyone reading this right now; and, thank you for making them so unique and special. I pray that Your view of them as amazing will take root in their hearts right now and that they begin to see themselves the same way. I ask oh Lord, that you convict them right now that they are not here by mistake but by design to do incredible things as only they can do. I ask that you bless my sister who has forgotten how to dream and that you give her child like visions again, that you place playfulness in her heart, and that you give her feet to dance through the rain of life knowing that every splash is purposeful and every twirls touches another soul. Set her free and put her on the path to her purpose. Then, give her the courage to walk in it. Thank you and Amen!!!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Some may say, "Well, I am a singer, but there are many people with the same gift." Another may say, "I am a writer, a dancer, and an engineer, but I have a friend who possesses the exact same combination of gifts and talents. So, how am I so special?" The same is true for every one: None of us hold the keys to a particular talent, skill, gift, etc., alone. But, no one else will use them exactly the way you will. Combined with who your are, your life story, your trials and challenges, your goals and desires, and many other facets, there is no one else who can do what you do quite the way you do. There are people who will touch lives you'll never be able to touch and you will reach people as only you can reach. All of us are a designer's original destined to do things as only we can do and for the people we have been assigned! It is not your business to compare yourself to others and determine their chosen demographics. Your job is to simply BE who God has created you to be, DO what He has called you to do (use your gifts), and LET everyone else do the same, so that God is glorified!!!
It's not complicated. There's nothing to figure out. Just be!!! If you are someone who has forgotten how to do that, just stop where you are right now and give yourself permission to think about you, your hopes, desires, what makes you tick, smile, shine, what is it that you do so well and just do it. I love writing and speaking; thus, I am writing and I speak every chance I get. I don't just like to do it; but, God has gifted me to write and speak. Therefore, when I do either of them, He is glorified. My obedience gives people the opportunity to experience God in a major way, not everyone, but many. That's another thing about purpose, you cannot focus on those who don't accept your gifts, just focus on the gift giver and given gratitude to Him with your obedience to share those gifts with those who are waiting on you, accepting you, pushing you, needing you, and celebrating you. That's your purpose!
Father, thank you so much for making me different from everyone reading this right now; and, thank you for making them so unique and special. I pray that Your view of them as amazing will take root in their hearts right now and that they begin to see themselves the same way. I ask oh Lord, that you convict them right now that they are not here by mistake but by design to do incredible things as only they can do. I ask that you bless my sister who has forgotten how to dream and that you give her child like visions again, that you place playfulness in her heart, and that you give her feet to dance through the rain of life knowing that every splash is purposeful and every twirls touches another soul. Set her free and put her on the path to her purpose. Then, give her the courage to walk in it. Thank you and Amen!!!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Day 20 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
Forgiveness is an ongoing process. I am afraid we never conquer this challenge of it or even that it becomes easier when we are afforded much practice. It is a basically a case by case decision we all must make or don't make. The process is the mental and/or emotional path we choose whenever we are offended or hurt by another. We ponder the criticalness, we determine the weight of burden, we think of how bad the offense makes and feel and/or look; and, every time we are crossed we go through it all over again as we decide how much it will take for me to get over this.
Sometimes we can decide in an instant that we will forgive someone because we love that person so much or we don't deem the act severe enough to want to hold on to it or our right to be angry. Other times the seed of resentment grows roots and nestles itself so deep in our hearts that is feels nearly impossible to forgive. Furthermore, when we are challenged with the same transgression over and over again, we may completely give up our will to forgive the offender altogether. But, if we can will not to forgive just like that, then we can also will ourselves to forgive in an instant. I know it's not that simple; however, it is important that we see no circumstance as unforgivable.
Are some of the acts committed towards us heinous and unbearable? Absolutely! Do I deserve the opportunity to be hurt and angry? Most definitely! So, why is it not okay to choose to hold on to resentment and choose not to forgive? Because, you create total bondage for yourself and all those around you. You choose to be powerless versus powerful, which means that you continuously remain tied to a hurtful past, a certain person, and particular situation and block every new opportunity for happiness, freedom, joy and peace. Hopefully, you want to be free more than you want to be in prison. Again, it's a choice, in fact it's your right, but you must be the one to exercise it. You must want it bad enough to work for it. Are you willing?
Lord, we pray for the will power to walk in freedom. It is said in your Word that Your strength is made perfect in our weakness; so, Father, where we feel like we cannot forgive, we ask that you help us. My sisters and I want happiness, joy, and peace. So, we ask that you give us the mind of Christ, who understood human nature and didn't take it personally when others wronged Him. Help us make the right choice, the choice to forgive even if it means we have to separate ourselves from another; still give us the right heart and renew the right Spirit within us. We are powerful not powerless, victors not victims, and conquerors not losers. We know that we win when we forgive. Help us, Father, I pray! Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Sometimes we can decide in an instant that we will forgive someone because we love that person so much or we don't deem the act severe enough to want to hold on to it or our right to be angry. Other times the seed of resentment grows roots and nestles itself so deep in our hearts that is feels nearly impossible to forgive. Furthermore, when we are challenged with the same transgression over and over again, we may completely give up our will to forgive the offender altogether. But, if we can will not to forgive just like that, then we can also will ourselves to forgive in an instant. I know it's not that simple; however, it is important that we see no circumstance as unforgivable.
Are some of the acts committed towards us heinous and unbearable? Absolutely! Do I deserve the opportunity to be hurt and angry? Most definitely! So, why is it not okay to choose to hold on to resentment and choose not to forgive? Because, you create total bondage for yourself and all those around you. You choose to be powerless versus powerful, which means that you continuously remain tied to a hurtful past, a certain person, and particular situation and block every new opportunity for happiness, freedom, joy and peace. Hopefully, you want to be free more than you want to be in prison. Again, it's a choice, in fact it's your right, but you must be the one to exercise it. You must want it bad enough to work for it. Are you willing?
Lord, we pray for the will power to walk in freedom. It is said in your Word that Your strength is made perfect in our weakness; so, Father, where we feel like we cannot forgive, we ask that you help us. My sisters and I want happiness, joy, and peace. So, we ask that you give us the mind of Christ, who understood human nature and didn't take it personally when others wronged Him. Help us make the right choice, the choice to forgive even if it means we have to separate ourselves from another; still give us the right heart and renew the right Spirit within us. We are powerful not powerless, victors not victims, and conquerors not losers. We know that we win when we forgive. Help us, Father, I pray! Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Friday, August 14, 2015
Day 19 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
I think I've figured out one of the reasons this forgiveness issue is so complicated; and, it is our strong desire to be right. See, if I can claim that you're wrong then I can prove that I am right. The danger in this is that needing to be right at the expense of holding others in a prison of transgression is steeped in an unhealthy level of pride. We know that "pride comes before destruction". With that said, take one second to ponder if any destructive situations that may have taken place in your life were the humbling maybe even humiliating events which gave you the enlightenment to realize that you've wronged some the way others have wronged you. If so, did that enlightenment make your heart a little softer towards your offenders once you realized you needed the same forgiveness from someone else?
Let us be careful to consider the rational we tie to why we choose not forgive. Let us evaluate whether our holding our offenders captives is a result of a real struggle to move on versus how we think the situation makes us look to other people. It is of extreme importance that we consider how we may learn the lesson in the future if we choose not to forgive in the present. It is equally pertinent that we put our pride behind us as we evaluate our relationships and the consequences that stem from keeping others at bay and not treating them the way we want to treated during the times that we are wrong.
Pride stems from the ego and is the culprit behind many broken relationships. Love is Spirit, it operates in truth and freedom, yet it is the lawman which brings and keeps people together. Love will aid you in forgiveness. If you allow it, Love will show you yourself in the situation and show you the true character of the one who's caused you pain; and, it will strengthen you to interact with that person as if you see all the good in them even while your heart is healing. Love will also protect you from the pitfalls established by pride. As the young people use to say, "you better check yourself before you wreck yourself." Simply put, let us look at our own motives behind a matter, put our pride in check, and operate in Love!
Father God, we thank you for the mirror and the opportunity to look in it. Lord, let us see the beauty and the perfection that you see in us but also allow us to see where we have room to improve in our love life, how we love others and treat others and how we forgive others. Please dig up the roots of pride which causes us so much agony and pain and replace them with the roots tied to the fruits of the Spirit, like longsuffering, gentleness, and kindness. We know we cannot do it without You; so, we thank you for the conviction and for your guidance through the example of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Let us be careful to consider the rational we tie to why we choose not forgive. Let us evaluate whether our holding our offenders captives is a result of a real struggle to move on versus how we think the situation makes us look to other people. It is of extreme importance that we consider how we may learn the lesson in the future if we choose not to forgive in the present. It is equally pertinent that we put our pride behind us as we evaluate our relationships and the consequences that stem from keeping others at bay and not treating them the way we want to treated during the times that we are wrong.
Pride stems from the ego and is the culprit behind many broken relationships. Love is Spirit, it operates in truth and freedom, yet it is the lawman which brings and keeps people together. Love will aid you in forgiveness. If you allow it, Love will show you yourself in the situation and show you the true character of the one who's caused you pain; and, it will strengthen you to interact with that person as if you see all the good in them even while your heart is healing. Love will also protect you from the pitfalls established by pride. As the young people use to say, "you better check yourself before you wreck yourself." Simply put, let us look at our own motives behind a matter, put our pride in check, and operate in Love!
Father God, we thank you for the mirror and the opportunity to look in it. Lord, let us see the beauty and the perfection that you see in us but also allow us to see where we have room to improve in our love life, how we love others and treat others and how we forgive others. Please dig up the roots of pride which causes us so much agony and pain and replace them with the roots tied to the fruits of the Spirit, like longsuffering, gentleness, and kindness. We know we cannot do it without You; so, we thank you for the conviction and for your guidance through the example of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Day 18 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
Be on guard against the small sprouts of umbrages you
experience as a result of subtle offenses made by others towards you. I noted that because I have become keenly
aware of my thoughts; and, I’ve caught myself making defensive comments in my
mind when I felt like people were being nice-nasty with me, purposely
over-looking me or ostracizing me, or being cute yet spiteful. If you’re a man these terms may have gone right
above your head; but, if you’re a woman you more likely than not have been on
both ends of the stick and know exactly what I mean. Those little minor nuances can be the
worst. Overtime, they can really weigh
you down.
Therefore, the first thing I want you to know is, “You’re
not crazy!” Yes, people, especially
women often use their art of femininity and charm and sprinkle it with dung in
order to make you feel depreciated, and they do in a way as not to be blatant, noticeable,
or accused. It’s quite crafty, but not
cute or Godly whatsoever. Please, make
sure you are not that woman! Also, make
sure that when you are around such a person that you are equipped to allow the
shade casted to remain “only” on the outside of you. This will make it easier for you to forgive
that person.
The next thing I would like you to know is that it is
totally pointless to take personally another person’s ill intended actions
towards you. That person’s actions are
about them, their own insecurities, their need for power at the expense of
others feelings, and their own heart conditions. So, if your circumstances mandate you to be
around the person, then you can allow their actions but don’t have to receive.
If you have a choice as to whether to surround yourself around that person or
not, then the safest place of protection is far away. It is always easy to forgive when you don’t
allow the poison to soak into you and even easier if you don’t allow it spew on
you at all. Knowing your enemies and
protecting yourself from their devices can be the easiest path to forgiveness.
Lastly, if you could move from disdain to love for these
hurting women, then you will truly exemplify Christ. The beaten, bludgeoned, bloody, pierced, and
hanging Jesus lifted up His head and said, “Father forgive them for they know
not what they do” for the ones who nailed Him to the cross and mocked Him
there. He always knew when people were
talking behind His back and making assumptions and He was exceptional at posing
the right questions in order to make them converse with Him so that he could
share truth. We may not be at the level
of love for enemies just yet; but, forgiving them is necessary and loving them
should be our goal.
Father, you stated in Ephesians 4:31- 5:2 “Let all
bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with
all malice. And be kind to one another,
tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Therefore, be imitators of God as dear
children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for
us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” Lord, we need your help in this area! We are grateful for your example and also for
your understanding. Please continue to
show us the way to love and forgiveness, so that we may be free from the pain
of violations made against us and so that we may too model the way for other
women. Bless my sister with supernatural
strength, today, to stand in freedom, no matter what comes her way! Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Day 17 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge
You may ask, “How do I forgive?” The answer really is as simple as, “Just do
it!” I believe the more appropriate
questions may be, “Why do I want to hold on to this situation so badly?”, “Why
do I want this pain in my life?” and “Why is it that I rather be a victim versus
victor?” Those are questions that only
you can answer for you and when you can with accuracy, then you can chose
whether you are ready to move on to forgiveness or not. It is not that you cannot forgive, it is that
you will not forgive. Pointblank, forgiveness is a choice that is made or not
made.
Sometimes, we are unsuccessful in moving on because we are
never prepared for the hurt that comes to us.
Furthermore, though we experiences these bouts of transgressions
throughout our life time, neither are we equipped with a blueprint for
intervention during these times. Therefore,
if it is your desire and intention to be a true forgiver, it is important to
have a plan and to use it. This design
may or may not work for you, nonetheless I want to share a couple things I do
when I am struggling to forgive a wrongdoer. They are listed below.
1)
Talk about how I am feeling to a trusted
confidant (no more than two people)
2)
Don’t rehearse the offense over and over by
telling everybody about it. This just fuels the fire.
3)
Take time for myself to feel the pain and cry if
needed, every day if necessary
4)
Give myself a deadline to be over it (one day,
one week, or one month, but not much longer.
The deeper you dig that hole the harder it is to get out).
5)
I pray for (not against) the person who has
wronged me (even if I don’t mean it, I pray until I do)
6)
I think of others I have offended as to put
myself in my offenders shoes
7)
I forgive!
This would be a good time to come up with your own method. Think of ways that you’ve gotten over a past
offense. What did you do about it? How did you get through so quickly? Write down what you remember and put it away
so you can refer to it when it’s needed.
We want to walk in freedom not in bondage which mean we’ve got to create
the way to freedom. A road is paved with
a plan and having a plan for forgiveness will get you to your place of sovereignty.
Lord God, please help me sister who has struggled with
carrying resentment in her heart and has found it nearly impossible to
forgive. Pour out your creative power
upon her now as she writes her plan.
Give her vision and provide clarity so that her plan is clear, concise,
realistic, attainable, and effective.
Father, we know that is your will that we love you above all, love and
treat our neighbors as ourselves, and live in peace with everyone. Help us father to exemplify this kind of life
even when those we interact with on a daily bases do not. Set us free so that others might see your
example through us and experience the same freedom and power they see in us,
because we know that you want it for us all!
Thank you & Amen!
#IAmMySistersKeeper
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