Take the Challenge! 28 days of Personal Power - February 2018

Realizing your inner power embarks on a journey of inner healing and discovery. As I reflect upon Black History Month, I thought about the Civil Rights Movement and the pain and suffering many people subjected themselves to for the evolution of us all. Since I know none of us enjoys suffering, one of the last things we would do is put ourselves on the front line of it. Can you imagine the amount of fear and trepidation that those marchers had to squash and the effort they put forth to unleash their inner power to stand in front on armed men, water hoses, and vicious dogs trained to attack them??? Well, that's not our storyline today, but believe it or not, that same power is in us all. No matter how crazy your world may seem, you can dig deep and find your well of peace and dwell there no matter what! There is nothing more comforting to me than inner peace; but, I could not achieve that by responding to my offenders in vengeance, mean/uncontrolled outbursts, and retaliation. I used to have so many creative combinations of curse words ready in my mind to respond to any given situation; BUT TODAY, my mental and spiritual plan of response is in patience, poise, peace, and love! Now that's POWER! Maintain your poise by not being phased by your attackers! 

Remember, making this world a peaceful place starts with inner peace, and seeking and finding such power is indeed #Powerliving!! The process of discovering inner power is a challenging and rewarding life venture, I encourage you to explore.

Rise-up today and be intentional about discovering your personal inner power. If you are interested in successfully living empowered, try 28 days of Personal Power, click here —> "HERE"

If you have not previously downloaded the 30DayPowerupChallenge try 30 days of Empowered living, click here —> "30-DayPowerupChallenge2018"

Let us know how you are enjoying the challenge!  Provide feedback “HERE”.

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Finally, share this with friends, coworkers, and loved ones you think need to be empowered! #Powerup

You are on your way!

I am literally sitting here on my flight to Hawaii.  My journey has been long and tedious: I drove to Atlanta, yesterday so that I could catch an early flight this morning.  Now, I am on my third connector with about two hours left before arriving in Maui. 

When I started out, I was super excited as I imagined the beautiful hotel where I will reside for a week, the amazing beaches,  great pineapple drinks, and matchless fellowship with my besties!  However, after a while following airport runs, snack foods that don't satisfy, sitting in the middle seat on long flights, crampy legs, and a body temperature fluctuating between hot and cold, I am almost forced to scream out to the pilot, in my little girl voice, "Are we there yet?"

With that said, how often do you set your eyes on the possibility of an amazing adventure?  You can see it, taste it, feel it, and can hardly wait to bring your imagination to life only to get stuck in your temporary reality of discomfort.  Why do we allow pain and suffering to block our vision, deter us from remaining focused, kill our joy?  It is only temporary! So, it is imperative that you and I, both, understand that when we are ON OUR WAY,  there is almost never a smooth ride.  We will experience challenges that cause us to second-guess if this ideal picture and exciting plan are really for us.

Please know,  "It is!" It is for you!  It is for me! When we learn to expect and prepare for the valley experiences, then we are less disappointed when moving toward our targets.  Hawaii is still there waiting, and I will get there, mainly because I am not giving up and jumping off the plane while screaming and hollering, "I don't want to do this anymore!"  That would be insane, right???  So, why do we when we experience barriers and hiccups in life, in relationships, on our job, in our businesses, or anything else that we are engaged in to bring us happiness and fulfillment.  I want to challenge you in this moment,  DO NOT JUMP OFF THE PLANE!  You will make it if you do not quit.  No matter the level of difficulty or whether you feel stuck, tell yourself, "I am well on my way!" because indeed you are!

YOU LOVE YOU!!!! (Poem by Dr. Kreslyn)

YOU LOVE YOU

When all else around your island fails - You

Don’t you fear and don’t you fret

Cause on you, you can lean and tell - You

On myself, I can always bet

Men will leave and women will also fail- You

Knowingly and even when you least expect

So in your own hand gather and be the gel - You

Need that bonds the brokenness and disappointments you get

Fault no one for their incapacity to give  - You

That charity which comes from within or above

Yet, to all still be willing to yield – You

Be responsible for your own love in spite of

Dare to be different and love where there’s hate – You

Forgive and keep open the pathways to euphoria

Choose to enjoy days and learn how to make – You

Your own moments

 and smiles - no reliving sad stories

Tomorrow’s not a promise, but each moment still – You

Have now to live forgetful of hurt and pain

While enjoying and loving each instant so surreal –  You

Love you.  This is where there’s always gain

Love you at least that’ll make two – You

And your maker.  Someone else will too

But, when they can’t , won’t or choose not to

You’re  not unloved, if YOU LOVE YOU!!!!!

Dr. Kreslyn, 3/ 16/09

Day 40 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge

Sometimes the best covering is the protection from oneself.  Some women have been so beat down in life that subconsciously it becomes their standard for living.  Without even knowing it some of us don't think that we are worthy of anything good. Therefore, when there's no one to oppress us, we begin to sabotage our own selves,  our happiness, love, joy, peace, prosperity.  That might sound extreme to you; so, answer these questions:

1) When did you find yourself less attracted to a great guy who was crazy about you, but you poured out your heart to the one who use and abuse you?

2) When did you spend your bill money on one night of fun  only to struggle for months trying to catch up?

3) Can you think of a time when most if not all your relationships were in turmoil and you just couldn't get along with anyone, not even the people who loved and cared for you?

4) What about when you've been provided opportunities and you thought this is too good to be true so you didn't take advantage of it, only to find out later it was good and true?

5) If you answered yes to or can identify with any of the aforementioned questions or thought of another similar scenario in which you could answer yes, then answer this, "Who caused this disappointment and stress in your life during those times and why?"

I am not by any means insinuating that every time you walk away from someone or something that you're in a worthlessness state of mind; but, what I am saying is that sometimes we are our biggest enemy.  Sometimes, the protection we need is from our own thinking, habits, rituals, traditions, and skeletons from the past.  All of our life experiences help shape who we are, but not necessarily for better.  It is pertinent that we consider where we've been, done, and what's been done to us and be intentional about learning from them and using them for our good. 

Let us as women, not be the one who thinks she's not worthy of good!  YOU are!!!  Let all self sabotage end today as we ask for new minds, hearts, and experiences.  Let us not be caught by the web of generational cycles and heredity if they don't serve us well.  Let us intend today that we are capable and due the very best this life has to offer.  Let us move forward and let the past be past, forgiving all wrongs committed to us by others and to others by us.  Make this a new day, where your inheritance is rich, new, and provides a blessed life endorsed by God and by you!

Father, we your daughters, thank you so much for the protection that you provide for us.  Now, allow our empowerment to come by the work of Your Holy Spirit within us who leads, guides, and speaks to us in order to keep us on the right track.  Strengthen us by Your Spirit to shut down these the thoughts which keep us in bondage and rob us of a blessed life.  Even on the cross, Jesus asked that His accusers and murderers be forgiven due to their ignorance.  He knew who He was and the blessings that He was about to receive by being with You for eternity. He did not allow His experiences of rejection and hatred by others keep Him from His blessed life.  His sacrifice was also for us so that we may live more abundantly.  Lord, we receive that abundant life right now!!!!  Continue to protect us from ourselves until we can fully walk in Your divine design for our life.  Thank you, Father, and Amen!!!!

Day 39 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge

With everything that's going on in the world today, which include the apparent lack of concern for human life, people seem to be more fearful than ever that something devastating could happen to them or their loved ones.  Though crime and violent attacks are on the rise, I want to inform you that God is still the best protector. It is imperative that we believe Him during these perilous times.  So, while we are making our homes burglar proof and purchasing weapons, don't forget Who is really able to shield you and protect you.

It's definitely a period where we need to be more conscientious about our surroundings and take necessary precautions, but don't rely upon yourself, your technology, and your own abilities alone.  God knows all, is all powerful, and is everywhere at once. He can remove you from the wrong place at the wrong time and put you at the right place at the right time.  Always consult with His Spirit within you.  Listen to your gut and senses; and, most importantly obey them.  Try to remain relaxed even when things are tumultuous, then you'll think clearer and make better decision.

The safest place in the world is in His hands; so, continue living life, going to work, traveling, enjoying your free time. Just don't go alone.  Take God with you.  Pray as you go and that's any and everywhere.  If you ever sense that you shouldn't go somewhere alone, don't.  Take a friend, but even then, still take God with you  both.  He is our refuge and strong tower.  In an instant, He can and will perform a miracle on your behalf.  Rest in Him in all your daily activities; and, know He wants to be there for you.  Rely on Him.

Father, thank you so much for being in control!!! We trust you, Lord, with our lives and our families.  Times seem so uncertain these days as people appear to have no care for their fellow man; and, your people are really worried.  Help relieve us of our discontentment.  Show Yourself strong and mighty on our behalf.  Please keep your angels all around us; and, Holy Spirit speak clearly to us as our personal guide.  Keep our feet on the path of safety and be our shield from the fiery darts of our enemy.  Thank you and Amen!!!!

Day 38 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge

How soon we forget!!!!  For some odd reason when problems arise, we pour all of our attention on the strife it causes in our lives.  We may have sleepless nights, unnecessary arguments with our friends an loved ones, and simply turn our whole life over to our challenges as if absolutely nothing is right with us because of one little hiccup in our life plans.  Our need for mountaintop experiences and smooth days are often exacerbated by our unrealistic view of life and this alone is a primary cause of the rollercoaster ride when jump on when something doesn't "go right" in  our life.

Why do we lose sight of the fact, that though we are experiencing hardship at a certain moment in time, we are still alive and that alone is enough to be grateful; and, if we'd only take one second to stop chasing our current problem, we could find other things in which to be grateful.  I know. I know. I know. No one understands, because you are the one with so many problems. NOT!!!  You are not the only one.  In fact, there are so many sisters around you who are going through so much more! Don't believe me?  Just ask three people, "What are you going through right now?"  Then, listen to them and empathize with them.  Instantly, not only will you see that you're not alone, but it will help take your mind off your own issues.

We not only lose sight of the few things going right in our life, but we also forget  how we reined victoriously while facing giants in the past.  We forget about our prayers, the promises we made to God to always trust Him in any situation, and how He brought us out of tribulation.  It is absolutely crucial that we hold on to such memories instead of  going back to faithlessness, worry, and despair when something else happen. We must remember not to forget God's goodness! This would help us create that smoother life we desire.  That life would not be absent of challenges, but remembering God's faithfulness and goodness in the past will definitely equip us to handle future dilemmas with much more confidence and ease. Remember Him!!

Father God, thank you so much for everything that you've done for us in the past.  You've been here for us our entire lives.  We are here because You!!! Only You gives life and we are thankful!  Refresh us Oh God, and remind us that we live in a world with people who don't know you and who don't love you so there will always be some friction in our lives.  Even with the ones who know and love you, they are not perfect; therefore, trouble will exist among your people.  Help us, Lord, to remember Jesus as our example and how He handled trouble.  He addressed some issues, ignored some, and fled the scene of others, but He was constant in His understanding of who He was, whose He was, and what He was here to do.  He remembered those things at all times.  Remind us by Your Holy Spirit to remember as well!!  Thank you Father & Amen!

#IAmMySistersKeeper

Day 37 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge

Your heart should always be protected.  Your mind is worth shielding as well.  The body that is preserved today will serve you better, tomorrow. Learning these things as young as possible protects us from much harm.  The mind, heart, body, and soul are what determines our well being, but we don't seem to think much about keeping them fit until they are compromised.  We take for granted their fragility until they begin to break down, and they will as long as they are unattended.

Thank God that the body is more intelligent than we give it credit.  It can heal is itself and rejuvenate itself when needed or else we would probably not survive as long as we do.  What a mighty God we serve who in His infinite knowledge and wisdom created us in His image, which means he gave us a heart of Love to share with others that they may better experience Him.  He gave us a mind which encompasses the senses that we may see, hear, feel and know Him.  He gave us creative power in our mind just like His.  He gave us a body created from the earth He created and brought us to life by the very breath He breathed into us.  He gave us His Spirit.  Just take a moment in bask in gratitude. What an honor to made in His image.

Following that moment, begin to think of ways in which to protect this amazing being God has created in you.  How can you better preserve your mind, heart, body, and spirit?  Here are a few things to consider:

1) Limited television and music (especially programs which promote violence, sexual promiscuity, drug and alcohol abuse, and vulgar language)
2) Read materials daily which promote health, happiness, peace, love, and prosperity.
3) Spend quiet time alone in the morning and at night (maybe catch the sunrise and sunset but in complete silence)
4) Increase fruit, vegetable, and water intake and decrease bread, meats, and alcohol intake
5) Walk or do some form of exercise everyday
6) Have very frank conversations with God (like you would with your best friend or parent)
7) Pray often (all throughout the day)

Lord, we praise you!!!! We are so grateful that you've considered us in the way you have.  You made us in your image.  Wow!!! Thank you, Father!  Now, help us to keep that thought at the forefront of our minds as we send everything else to the back.  Remind us to preserve these beautiful gifts you've given us; a mind to create, a heart to love, a body to work and serve.  Help us take advantage of the wisdom which is always readily available to us in your Word and in the examples of others as we seek to preserve the lifestyle which aids our mental, emotional, physical success.  Thank you Lord & Amen!!!

#IAmMySistersKeeper

Day 36 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge

I am sure you've heard the saying, "Man's rejection is God's protection."  So often, as women, we desperately desire that which is not meant for us and is not good for us. It is hard for me to fathom why there's this longing for things which are not purposed for our lives; but, the simplest rational I can garner is that we don't want to feel the pain of rejection and loss associated with not having that which we've set our eyes and hearts upon. Also, I must say that having twisted desires is not just a women's issue but a men's issue as well.  Many people do all manner of things in an attempt to gain that which will never be within their grasp.

As many times as we've been hurt by man's rejection, why does it seem as if people enjoy the endless cycle of self exposure to much of same; women chasing the same kind of man time and time again or coveting another woman's career, status, life, etc.? There may be many philosophical answers to that question, but what I would like for us to really ponder, "How can this cycle be broken?"  How can women come to desire God's plan for their lives more than desiring people and things which don't serve them?  Though, these are questions that only each woman reading this can answer for herself, I believe that truly knowing and accepting God's love for us is what begins to unlock our unhealthy desires. 

If man's rejection is truly God's protection, let us consider His love, care, guidance, and perfect plan for our lives.  God never wants us hurt or harmed, contrary to what some believe.  We are spirit and are made in His image therefore we are His.  Though, we will have many human experiences, some painful and at times unbearable, it's God's desire for us to be happy and harmonious, living from His perpetual fountain of joy.  He desires the very best for us all; and, He has a better idea of what that looks like than we do.  Knowing that, is it possible to accept  the people who walk out your life or won't give you the time day, missed opportunities, and misalignment with certain schemes and plans as His protection for you?  Will you align your vision for your life with His, the Master Life Planner?  Full surrender to Him in this way assists us even more in transitioning to healthier desires and intentions. You will still experience rejection, but its sting will be less intense and any sabotage that comes your way will carry no weight because it will not be inflicted by you.  No other weapon formed against you can prosper when you are truly allowing God's plan for your life.  "For, all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose."

Father, we thank you for your perfect plan!  We praise you for your majesty and wisdom.  We are overwhelmed by your love, grace, and mercy.  Thank you for protecting us from the things we cannot predict and see and aid us trusting You and your work, behind the scenes. Deliver us, Oh God, from ourselves and our unhealthy desires.  Make every crooked scheme, longing, and intention within us die never to resurrected again as we align our life plans with your plans for our lives. We humbly pray and ask these things.  Thank you and Amen!

Day 35 - 40 Day Prayer & Empowerment Challenge

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!!

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!!!

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!!!

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

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!!!

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!

 

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!!!

 #IAmMySistersKeeper