June Magazine 2012 ( Divine Connections)

Volume 6

Issue 2

June 2012

Maximize your Single Life Singles- Maximize your single life. God is faithful; he will see you through any and everything. God loves you unconditionally. Here is a portion of my life story. I am blessed to have a whole family with a Godly mother and father and 3 siblings. I grew up in a Christian home, so a lot of things I was not exposed to because I had praying parents and a loving church family. At the age of 3 years old I experience Jehovah Rapha, the God that heals. I pulled down a pot of hot boiling water off the stove, and my skin rolled off of me and I was rushed to the hospital. In one week God healed my body and new skin grew back on my body. To God be the Glory. You can’t even tell I was burnt.

When I was in high school, I studied hard , made good grades, and research scholarships As I was in college my parents blessed me by giving me a paid for car at the age of 22. My first year in College at NCCU I got a scholarship that covered my tuition. A year later I transferred to WSSU, I did not believe in loans for school but believed God as my Jehovah Jirah. I constantly ask school for financial aid after they said they had no more financial aid available. I prayed and consistently asked the advisor just about every morning if they had some finances come in, if they said no. I would say, “ok I’ll try back tomorrow”. I continued this until I got a release and they said come in, close the door behind you and the advisor went to the computer and gave me money every semester there after. I graduated owing no man and no college. It is possible but you have to do your part.

At the age of 27 I got a house built and what an awesome experience. There is nothing like receiving blessing and favor from the Lord. He’s been better to me than I can be to myself. I encourage you not to get caught up in the debt and loan trap, there are other options but you have to do your part. At the age of 30 I was in a little pain I didn’t tell any one I was just hoping it would go away. My mother came to visit because I was preparing to do a house warming, and she detected something was wrong. She took me to the hospital; they ran some test and said you are going to have to have surgery. So, I said ok thinking to my self okay I’ll be back later for that because I have some other things to do, so I said “Okay ,When?” The doctor said right now, prepare for surgery, I had not time to debate, think, or argue with the doctor. My life was at state. So I prepared for surgery not really knowing what was going on. I had a successful surgery, God healed my body. I had an dermoid cyst my ovary had twisted 6 times and started growing hair and teeth. They took out my right ovary and my right fallopian tube. But to God be the Glory I am still alive and well. I was out of work for 6 weeks for healing, my family was very supportive and all my bills were paid. I serve an awesome God. I stated my business in 2007 and continually growing it by the help of God. I can’t even imagine what God has for me. I have traveled, gone to London, California, Georgia, Disney world, Jamaica and some other places. I am 33 and the Lord still has more in store for me. Ask me how I know because he says, “He that has begun a good work in you shall perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:16 I’m excited about my abundant life and moving to the next dimension. Be encouraged and maximize your single life. Love God, love yourself, and love others and God will not disappoint you.

In this issue you will be encouraged to hear about real life issues and experiences that ended in positive results in various areas. Such as marriage, health and wellness, being a preacher’s kid, sex/intimacy, finances, domestic violence, and the Holy Spirit. Stay connected to Divine Connections.

I want to hear from you and what to know what you want to hear about just email me or facebook me facebook.com/DivineConnectionsMarketing.

www.divineconnections.info

Email: Deloris@divineconnecitons.info 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 1

Marriage is Honorable Hebrews 13:4

Marriage is far more than an arrangement for a man and woman to meet their needs for companionship. The purpose for marriage is found in the Bible. Three purposes built on Psalm 127:1 (1) Mutually completing one another Gen. 2:18,19-22. We complete each other through our unique differences (weaknesses and strengths). God brings two people together to balance each other out, to fill each other's gaps. We are stronger as a team than we were alone. We become interdependent rather than two independents. However, we must realize that half a woman and half a man cannot make a whole marriage. That is why we must strive to enter into the marriage covenant with the understanding that our gender differences are to be celebrated not tolerated. Too often we see couples entering marriage with the 50/50 mentality so you only give half of yourself and expect the other person to give their half with the unrealistic expectation of having total fulfillment. Total fulfillment can only come when you give your total self to the other person. The truth is that total fulfillment can only come from God through his son Jesus as we give ourselves totally to him first. We love God more than we love each other which is why we believe that our 41 years of marriage have been so blessed. We must be careful not to put our spouses in a place where only God belongs. Most couples become discouraged in marriage because they fail to understand that they should have become complete in Christ before they even entered the covenant. When Jesus is Lord of our lives we depend on him and it takes the burden off of the other person to try to fulfill all of our needs because that is humanly impossible. Instead of saying what can my spouse do for me, you will find yourself saying what can I do for my spouse. That means what is mine is yours and I esteem you above myself. Selfishness is always at the root of every divorce because one person refuses to give all 100% of themselves to the other. The Bible tells us that we are to esteem others higher than ourselves.

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 2

Marriage is Honorable Hebrews 13:4

I think sometimes we forget that our spouses are also our sisters and brothers in Christ. To hurt my husband is to hurt God's son and to hurt my wife is to hurt God's daughter so that should provoke us to resolve the conflict rather than dissolve the relationship. It saddens us to see so many Christian couples who say they love God, yet show such little regard for the institution that he ordained. God gave us the example for marriage which is the relationship of Christ to his church. Marriage is God's idea, not the government. (Gen.2:24,25).

(2) Multiplying a Godly legacy Gen. 1:28 God's original plan called for the home to be a "green house", a nurturing center where children grow up to learn character, values, integrity, and honor. The bible tells us that our children are a reward but if we don't see them as a reward then they won't reward us. We must reward our children for who they are and not for what they do. We must never place higher value on performance over character and behavior. Our children learn what God is like by watching us. If they feel that your love is conditional based on what they do they will think that God is the same way and stay in bondage all of their lives trying to prove that they are good enough to deserve his love. The home is the preparation for establishing a culture that honors God in every aspect of life, family and work. There is no other setting that will teach our children how to relate, negotiate, and communicate than in a God honoring home and family. We are not to honor our children above our spouses. As the husband submits to God as the covering and priest over the home, the wife submits to the husband as unto the Lord, and the children to the parents. Submission is a word that provides safety, accountability, and order when it is done with kindness and respect modeled before children by their parents.

Eph. 5:21-33

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 3

Marriage is Honorable Hebrews 13:4

(3)Mirroring God's Image Gen. 1:26,27 Marriage is Holy. We call it Holy Matrimony because we come before a Holy God to enter into a Holy Covenant, not a contract. God's character displayed in marriage is what he chose by bringing a husband and wife together to represent "his love.� The God kind of love and best be expressed by the unconditional love and acceptance that we are to have for each other in marriage. The God kind of love never changes based on emotions, it is always constant, consistent, and most of all forgiving which is the oil of relationship. Every couple should read 1Cor. 13 at least once a week together. Even if you feel that you have lost your attraction to each other, you would be amazed at what will happen to ignite the fire in your marriage again if you would read this passage out loud together and meditate on it daily (Josh.1:8) You must be willing to invest in your marriage with time spent in prayer and in the word on behalf of your mate. God "so loved" that he gave so give your husband or wife what he or she needs. The father's love is perfect, he always believes the best in us so let's strive to be like our heavenly father and we can be sure to have heaven on earth in our homes.

Respectfully submitted by Pastors Curtis & Jeannette Hampton Founders of Liberty In Christ Outreach Ministries, Greensboro, NC 336-987-3633 www.libertyic.org

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 4

LegalShield gives you the ability to talk to an attorney on any matter without worrying about high hourly costs. timmclaughlin@legalshield.com www.legalshield.com/hub/timmclaughlin

Contact: Tim McLaughlin 336.542.8326

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 5

Gifts to Give All Year Long Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) As I pulled up to the drive-thru intercom at Chick-fil-A the other day, the voice on the other end said, “Hi, my name is Ashley. I hope you’re having a great day! Welcome to Chick-fil-A. What can I get for you?” The young lady was so happy and bubbly I ordered more than I originally intended just because she made me feel good and brightened my mood. I mentioned the lively attitude of the cashier to my son and he replied in a very cynical manner, “Her boss makes her say it like that.” But being a parent and not willing to let a “teachable moment” pass, I recalled the story of Joseph.

The Bible says that the Lord was with Joseph and he prospered and the Lord gave Joseph success in everything he did. Joseph had a special gift; the gift to interpret dreams. But Joseph’s brothers weren’t very impressed with Joseph or his special gift. As a matter of fact, they had so much envy towards Joseph they sold him into slavery and told their father he was killed by a ferocious beast.

Joseph was thrown in an Egyptian jail where he sat for about two years. When the Egyptian Pharaoh had a dream that the Egyptian magicians and wise men couldn’t interpret the Pharaoh was told that a young Hebrew in jail could possibly interpret the dream. When bought before Pharaoh, Joseph said, “I cannot interpret your dream, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.”

Joseph’s interpretation of the dream warned the Egyptian Pharaoh of a severe famine that was coming. Because of the timely interpretation, Pharaoh was able to prepare for the famine and keep his people from suffering.

Many would believe that “gifts” are something of value; tangible tokens of affection that can be given to someone that will be appreciated and esteemed. And when we think of receiving gifts we inevitably want “stuff” that we can show off or brag about. But I would argue that the best gifts we have to offer are those that can be shared without any cost or inconvenience. Time is a gift that we can freely give to our families and children. As a successful business owner, the gift of good advice and mentorship can help another entrepreneur as they grow their business. As a good friend, the gift of compassion and a listening ear can go a long way. A smile and sincere words of encouragement can keep a young person focused on reaching for a positive future. You have a very special gift inside of you so remember this advice, “it’s better to give than receive.”

Cali Pearl Financial Advisor, Sherri Brown, offers her opinion on a variety of financial planning subjects. She is expressing personal and professional opinions and views. Her advice or recommendations should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) any decision relating to investments or any other matter. You should consult your own independent financial advisor and obtain professional advice before exercising any investment decisions or choices based on information featured in this article.

Cali Pearl Corporation, 5009 High Point Road, Greensboro, NC 27407 ‡ www.calipearl.com ‡ 336.808.3496

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 6

Sex Now, Intimacy Late

By Shea Neal In most relationships sex is a source of painful memories. Why? Because most husbands and wives don’t understand the role of intimacy and how it creates an atmosphere where the sexual relationship can thrive, unharmed. If there is no intimacy, there is no trust, no security, and no harmony. There will be only the duty of intercourse in order to keep one spouse from cheating. But, if there is no intimacy interwoven within love-making, one spouse will eventually cheat if they began seeking other means outside their marriage to satisfy these deeper needs.

Matt Williams, author of Eden Derailed believes that “the issue isn’t sex, the issue is intimacy.” But what gets in the way of pure uninhibited intimacy? Emotions do, and they come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. How about these scenarios: most of us keep our emotions in check in order to keep our jobs, most of us even keep them in check at the restaurant so they won’t tamper with our food in the back. Why in marriage does it seem to be a natural reaction to lose a sense of decorum with our spouse?

It is as if we’re saying that our spouse isn’t as important to respect as others are in the outside world…that we can treat him/her how we want, and they must deal with it. If we want a genuine closeness with our spouse, we have to be aware that negative and bitter emotions are the obstacles that get in the way to keep affection from blossoming.

How can we hold our spouse in our arms if we are too preoccupied with holding jealousy, resentment, or cynicism closer to our hearts instead? Sometimes we wonder why God has grown silent and left us to deal with a dull relationship, but the solution is in the mental choices we make. Sometimes the Lord shows us where our heart truly is by allowing us to make our own decisions. Instead of turning our heart toward our spouse, most of us try to find someone else to turn toward.

Whether people believe this, or not: everything you crave, desire, and want can be found in your spouse. Yes, it takes some work getting there, sometimes, but that is the whole purpose of the relationship: growing, exploring, and discovering together. How can anyone see the full potential of a marriage if they keep pressing the “quit” and “restart” buttons every time there is a bump in the road?

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 7

Sex Now, Intimacy Late

By Shea Neal

Granted, it is difficult to do the right thing when one spouse is unwilling, content with bringing chaos into the home. However, your determination to bring order and harmony (in a loving and respectable way) could move things in your favor, and win them over. The type of relationship being referred to here is one where there is no violence, no verbal abuse, or no constant adultery of any kind. If you are allowing these matters to be the weeds creeping through your foundation, you will make it hard for your spouse to find a place where they can feel safe to open up to you.

We can look for wise counsel, we can consult our pastor, but the choice to do the right thing is still ours. It is our duty to apply the Word, the wisdom, and the work to our situations if we want unity, harmony, and joy to flow.

But most of us are so distracted by the fact that we are displeased with our relationship that we allow offense to strike the heart, and refuse to do what it takes to make things right. If I was your enemy, and I wanted to disrupt the true purposes of a married couple’s life, I would strike the heart. This will then affect the bedroom, after which the rest of the relationship will begin to crumble.

A marriage does not have to be overtaken by adversity. Use it to make your bond stronger. Use it to reveal to you where your heart is, so that you can weed destructive emotions out or sow some nurturing affection back in. And if adversity shows you that your heart is turned away from your spouse, make an effort to turn it back to your mate, your teammate. Read books on intimacy and relationships that incorporate the Word into their prose. Apply sound wisdom to your situation, be patient, be loving, be determined to make your sexual relationship a constantly thriving, evolving, and vivacious diversion you and your spouse look forward to sharing when you come together. Yet, don’t forget one of the most important elements: true intimacy.

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 8

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 9

The Call and the Response

You know God is calling you when you are sitting alone in the room during quite time and your kids are outside playing with your wife and the Voice says “Here is what I want you to do…”

So it was in November of 2011. God wanted me to do something that has never been done before. Why me? Why not you? I was so full of excuses but He was ready with responses. I was faithless but He has faith enough for the world. My sentences started with “but” and His began with “because”. At the end I had a mission and a vision to act upon.

My point here is not to elaborate on the event itself but to share the lesson I learned from that day on. As men we are appointed the head of the household. We are leaders in the eyes of God. There are days that you have asked and prayed, “God use me”, “God give me a chance to live a life of abundance in You”, “Lord I am ready to serve You!” However when the opportunity arises and you are called out to lead and serve you say, “I have to check my schedule”, “I just don’t know if I can fit it in”, “I am not ready”. Do you really question God? Is that your response to the Master of Time? Are you willing to turn the blessing aside because of your lack of Faith? Do you really think your situation is that different and impossible to God? Remember Jeremiah 29:11 and do not think just follow Him! Fast forward to today. Obstacles pushed aside. Naysayers’ are non-existent. My sweat, blood and tears wiped away with the robe of triumph and victory! My time gave way for His time! I was blessed with more provision. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! God bless you, Angel Guerrero, MS, ACS, ALB 2009 Toastmasters District 37 Champion Evaluator Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 10

Nutrients by Nature

By Thomas Faison For several years, there has become an obsession with weight loss and being physically fit. Here is a question, is physically fit and healthy the same thing? Think about how many athletes’ careers are shorten by major injuries or that have died before the age of 50. Think about friends or family members that were ideal weight for their height, exercised, and maintained what appeared to be a healthy diet. However, they have had blood pressure issues, blood sugar issues, or other health challenges. Some may have even died prematurely. Why? The answers may never be known. However, a lack of proper nutrition is a likely cause. Exercise is great but when we sweat, nutrition is lost from our bodies. It must be replenished through proper diet and nutritional supplements. Also, lack detoxifying our bodies is another potential cause. In our modern society, we have a lot of luxuries but too many of them come with a health penalty. Pesticides, food preservatives, cleaning products, air pollutions can be sources of toxins that we digest or inhale into our bodies.

Here are some recommendations as an alternative approach to your health to gain total body wellness.

Step One: Body Foundational Product Regardless of how beautiful the house is, the most important part of the house is the foundation. Address the foundational needs of your body first. To attempt to build upon a weak foundation would mean building upon a structure that will, over time collapse.

The body uses nutrition to heal itself. That is the way our CREATOR design it. Use a complete body foundational product every day.

With our diet today, this is the nutrition that is uses: · Too much sugar (white flour, white pasta, white rice, white bread). · Too much salt (processed foods). · Too much meat that will not digest in adequate time.

The brain sees a bucket of sugar, a bucket of salt, and a bucket of undigested meat to use to heal the body.

Step Two: Body Cleanses Toxins must be removed from the body. These toxins may have weakened the immune system and created an environment for diseases to live and grow. Cleanse the body of toxins so it can heal itself faster. (Use a complete cleanse product annually) You are not what you eat.

You are what you absorb and what you don't eliminate.

Your body cannot absorb what is not natural or what it can not recognize as food.

Nutrients by Nature

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 11

By Thomas Faison Read the ingredients on food labels plus all the chemicals use in our foods and on our vegetables.

Step Three: Regular Exercise As you complete Steps one and two, you will have the necessary energy to feel like exercising. Some suggestions are: a. Walking (30 minutes a day, three to four times a week) b. Cardio exercises c. Use a small rebounding trampoline (2 minute intervals --three to four times a day--3 times a week) Step Four: Monitor pH Few diseases can live or survive when the body’s pH level is where it needs to be! Therefore, when the body’s pH is maintained at a level of 7.4 without manipulation of our body, it’s very difficult to get sick and the body will be positioned to quickly heal itself. A simple saliva pH test can be done by the individual to determine their pH level.

Step Five: Target Specific Areas of Wellness According to two-time Nobel Prize winner, Linus C. Pauling, most, if not, all diseases or physical ailments may be caused by mineral deficiencies. And, when the body has the right minerals the body has a better chance of healing itself. Therefore, once you learn what mineral(s) your body is deficient in and you get the right mineral(s) the body will heal itself!! Targeting an organ or gland with extra nutrition is the key to increase healing.

The information provided is meant for educational purposes only and is not to replace the advice or care of your physician or health provider. None of the information provided is intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure disease only to give you an alternative approach to your health and wellness. www.nutrientsbynature.com 336-505-9134

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 12

Make Today Count

By Chris Adams

There are times where each day, week, and month seem to collapse together into a blur. We are confronted with changing scenarios and situations requiring unique strategies in our navigation to create efficient and proficient results. However, in the midst of everything , do we feel productive enough or does the enjoyment exist with the satisfaction of realizing the completion of a task, project or vision ? So many times, we begin with the best of intentions during the outset yet find ourselves side-tracked or diverted into a different direction when circumstances, situations, or “life” happens. These unexpected shifts have the potential to derail our self –directed goals and re-direct them into chaos, confusion, and/ or conflict. Fortunately, there are ways to ensure that in spite of what life and people bring in our direction, we can make each day count to achieve satisfaction, success, and serenity.

1. Priorities: These are the core directives we have set up to maintain a consistent focus without regards to the changing elements surrounding our lives. We must maintain attention on the successful execution of these items to ensure that our sense of accomplishment is fulfilled. Our priorities provide a blue-print of what we are trying to achieve and who we desire to become. Address those items that are in alignment with the top priorities to ensure maximum results.

2. Life Experience: Each day creates an opportunity to position us in our efforts to become better than yesterday.

Allow each situation, circumstance, decision, or adversity to enhance the foundational improvement in our perspective, knowledge, and capacity to propel us towards the full manifestation of our full potential and destiny.

3. Attitude: This area will make or break our opportunities both professionally and personally. Everything that comes of out of us is a direct result of what is within. How we think, feel, and perform rests solely on our attitudes. Our positive outlook and perspective will change situations and circumstances in our favor and provide the set-up to make today count.

These are but a few suggestions to make today count. We have the power and potential to visualize, create, and produce our own masterpieces. The shelf life of today is extremely fragile and time sensitive to enjoy the essence and unique spirit of this 24 hour period. We have the ability to do and become our very best by making each day count and proactively look for ways to make life more purposeful, meaningful, and complete. So, Make Today Count!

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 13

The Preachers Kid

By LaKesha Lyons

When you all are out, you are not only a reflection of yourself and us as your parents but you are a direct reflection and representative of Christ. Everyone knows you because of us. So do not be out acting unseemly. This was a statement that met us at the door every time my sister and I were going out somewhere. Whether it was a cookout, the mall, the movie theatre, church functions or even to the club. YES, I said the club.

Being a Preachers Kid (PK) comes with a lot of stereotypes and preconceived notions of how we should act, what we should wear, where we should or should not go and what we should or should not say. How could I forget, who we should or should not be around. Perhaps walking around with our bible in hand, at all times, was the ‘right’ thing to do and reverberate the many scriptures and sermons that we heard throughout the day. Not so much. However, Being held to such high standards and having the public eye on you at all times forced us to hold ourselves accountable for our actions and reassess some things we were going to say and even places we had thought about going.

There are disadvantages growing up as a PK but the advantages and benefits surpass all the disadvantages by a long shot. My parents allowed my sister and me to be individuals. There were standards that were set and values that were instilled and they were expected to be followed but at the end of the day you were your own person. Being a PK was an experience I would NOT trade for anything in this world. It was like I had my personal on-call preacher readily available. When you did something that probably was not the best thing to do, you knew you had a preacher in the other room that had been praying and covering you so you were good. I can remember sitting and talking to my parents and giving them scenario’s about my ‘friends’ but unbeknownst to them it was actually me that needed that advice or words of encouragement.

In the Baptist church we had an annual celebration for the pastor and his family, Pastors Anniversary. I looked forward to this time of year. This meant gifts, vacations and monetary gifts. I heard nothing during these services other than Now we will present the first family with gifts. Another advantage of being a PK was when there were events or special services we always got to eat first.

This may not mean much to you but when the line is 50 people deep and all you have to do is walk in and sit down, you felt privileged.

We all know the poise and the strength it takes to be a preacher and even more to be a pastor and first lady. The same attributes are needed to be a PK. There is just as much attack from spiritual forces and people on them as it is their parents. It certainly takes strong, spiritually gifted people to be PKs. I am grateful for such tenacity that I acquired over the years of being a PK. It has equipped me for my professional, personal, and spiritual life.

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 14

A Double Portion: the Blessing of Being a Child of Pastors

By B. T. Cooper There is no doubt in my mind that everyone has heard of “curses.” Am I right? And what about generational curses? I cannot begin to tell you how many times I have heard these terms not only in random conversations, but also the church.

While I don’t mind being educated in all facets of spiritual life, I am deeply saddened by the lack of balanced teaching. We hear about generational curses, but what about generational blessings! Yes, generational blessings!

There is nothing new under the sun. No matter how dark and crazy things become, those things are simply a contaminated form of the works of God. Isn’t that good news? No matter what you are facing and what you see, there is a greater and lovely power and this power is a God that loves to bless throughout generations.

Think about it. The Lord God made a covenant with Abraham in which the Lord promised to bless all the families of the earth through Abraham (Gen 12:3). Today, we all have the right to be joint heirs with Christ through the covenant the Lord made with Abraham ratified through the blood of Jesus.

Amazing, isn’t it? But this is only the tip of generational blessings. Even today, the decisions and lifestyle we live can impact numerous generations to come for either their benefit or detriment.

I cannot begin to tell you what a blessing it is to live in the blessings of my parents. My parents are Pastors. Now, I would be lying to you if I said that life was all peaches and cream. I would also be lying to you if I said that I always considered such a life a blessing.

But being 31 years old, I have had time to look over my life. There were so many problems and issues I did not have to experience because I was protected by a man and woman who dedicated their life to God. I have inherited a Godly wisdom beyond my years because of their life’s experiences. The Lord has even protected me from situations because of their faithfulness. And even in the times that my family had to deal with drama and betrayal, the Lord used those situations to mature me so that I could be equipped to handle difficult and unlovely situations in a wise and lovely way.

Because of my parents, I can now carry a greater portion of the anointing. Not because they could not carry a greater measure of the anointing, but because I have gleaned from their knowledge and experience. I can now go further in life because they gave me a good and sure foundation. Because of them, I don’t doubt my commitment to God. No matter what happens or doesn’t happen, I will not leave the Lord. He is all I have. As He led my parents, He will lead me and even more because of the foundation my parents laid in me. There is no limit in God, but through my parents, the Lord has set me up for double. I must only yield to Him.

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 15

My Life, My Purpose -Lyndia A. Clarke lyndiaclarke@gmail.com

Walking Out My Purpose Everyone goes through a time in their life where they ask, “Why am I here?” or “What is my purpose?” If you are a Christian or have grown up surrounded by Religious beliefs, you may have heard many scriptures that answer that question such as: Isaiah 49:1-We were created

by God, In His image, for a purpose. Galatians 1:5-for a specific purpose, he has also has a specific plan for your life. But what if you haven’t been raised in the church or you have turned away from God. Or better yet, you are not in the place you want to be with God. How do you start to walk out your purpose?

For me personally it started with me humbling myself before God & asking him for forgiveness. Next, I had to forgive myself. Asking God to forgive me was the easy part of my journey but when it came down to forgiving myself for what I had done, that was a horse of a different color. But through prayer and walking with God, he showed me how much he loved me and I needed to love myself the way he loves me.

The love of God is so pure and holy, for myself the word that expresses the feeling I have is “Freedom.”

My love walk showed me that before I took my first breath, God had designed me to do great things. By learning to love myself I was given a new revelation on how to love others. We sometimes wonder why people don’t walk in love with one another. The answer may be as simple as they don’t know how to love themselves or they have not been shown true Agape Love thru a brother or sister in Christ. Love is a word that has been misused and abused for so long that for a lot of people it does not mean anything. It is through our actions that we demonstrate how we feel about ourselves and one another. In your walk to your divine purpose, are you truly loving yourself and others or do you need a refreshing on learning to love yourself again so you can show love to others?

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 16

Domestic Violence is Real Domestic violence has played a constant role in my life. I have a number of family members who have suffered domestic violence. I was exposed to this vile behavior as a child later in life I would become a victim as well.

During my journey I married my abuser and regressed from a woman of courage, confidence and self-worth, to a woman lacking courage, confidence and self-worth. After many beatings, arguments, running, crying, covering wounds inflicted by my abuser I began to focus more on prayer and rebuilding myself. Making a choice to focus in such a way allowed me to begin to reclaim power and control that I had willingly yet unknowingly given up! I understood the power of prayer or where I walked with God, I knew the love of God and I had faith in God despite my abuse. I never blamed God or became angry with him for my dilemma. I chose to trust God to help me to continue putting one foot in front of the other regardless of how evil, violent or manipulative my abuser became. Eventually I reached a point where I was determined to survive, I purposed to survive. I made a conscious decision to listen to uplifting music; I spent time speaking God’s word and speaking positive to my own spirit with consistency.

Soon the day came when I was no longer filled with fear but I was filled with faith and hope, I knew that I would get through this and not by prayer alone but also by taking action. I began to exercise more control of my life, I would no longer allow myself to be intimidated by threats of fights, I was now empowered enough to start standing up for myself and not cringe fear. Having been offered the opportunity to teach a bible study, I was encouraged and empowered even more. I also tapped resources with Family and Children Services of the Piedmont; this allowed me to obtain a restraining order something I’d longed to do previously but was to afraid.

While I believe it is important to be prayerful and believe God, I believe it is also important to realize that God doesn’t do for us what he has enabled us to do for ourselves! We all have the need and the right to be safe and to be in a healthy environment.

For me survival was critical and in order to survive, it was critical for me to remember who I was in God and that my life had great purpose! While the process of my journey was long and difficult it has given so much more purpose to what my life’s work is.

Today my thrust is to empower, inspire and to encourage others as they take their journey through life. It is important to know that while they experience aloneness that they are not alone in their quest for freedom, for wholeness and for the reclaiming of one’s own voice!! These objectives are being accomplished in part with The Shawl Project; Celebration of Survivor’s and now our Self Defense Classes which will start on July 10th at the East White Oak Community Center on 10 th street.

Marva Edwards marvajedwards@yahoo.com

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 17

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 18

Christian Kids Corner Tidy Up Tommy Written & Illustrated by Lyndia A. Clarke Follow Tommy as he takes us through his room putting everything in order. There's lots of fun in store for Tommy and his friends! Tommy offers a delightful story complemented by 24 vibrant pages that illustration his room and the things that are important to him. Once Tommy has cleaned up his room he can go outside to play with his friend Freddy. Tidy Up Tommy is sure to excite all little learners! This book provides clear and focus direction skills. Tidy Up Tommy is also an Educational Tool that teaches children Divine order that everyone has a place in God’s Kingdom and everyplace has God’s people in it.

To Order your copy go to: Amazon.com & Kindle.com ISBN-10: 1477477365 ISBN-13: 978-1477477366 Editorial Reviews Lyndia A. Clarke is a Certified Jewelry Designer & Jewelry Repair Professional. She has been successful with her own line of jewelry since 2004. She earned her diploma & certification from Penn Foster . Lyndia is a native of Louisville, KY. She served in the United States Army , receiving Honorable discharge for Personnel Administration Specialist. She attended Tennessee State University to pursue a career in Child Psychology. Lyndia has started to build a family legacy with her company, The Jewelry Cafe. Lyndia’s creativity started at a very early age by writing stories and drawing. Her love of writing started when she was in 7th grade and her teacher asked her to enter a writing contest. Lyndia's grandmother, Clara Bell Spencer taught her & her family the importance of putting God first.

Lyndia resides in North Carolina with her husband & their three children.

Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 19

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 20

The Holy Ghost by Ms. Yolanda Caesar The holy ghost is our internal gps to salvation. According to john 16:13, it is designed to lead us into all truths. Once He comes, and takes residence in our spirit, we need no man to teach us. (1John 2:27) Jesus spoke, that the words he speaks is spirit, thus we that worship must do so in spirit and truth. (John 4:24) the holy spirit also gives us our own eternal language that is in direct communication with God. It is by the holy spirit we have power to become the real sons and daughters of God. (John 1:12)

My God Daughter Divinity Orr June 25, 2012 (1 year old)

June 19th Basscum Bass

July 19th Monique Laloo ( My God Sister)

July 25th Samuel Williams ( My Daddy)

June 2 Victoria Williams ( My Baby Sister)

DIVINE CONNECTIONS– JUNE 2012 / 21

Lessons learned as a PK

By Janet L. Lackey As a state and national board baptist association leaders’ daughter, there were many perks that I had as a “PK.” I was able to travel to many states that allowed me to develop friendships with people from different areas, that I otherwise would have never met. I have also had the pleasure of knowing some incredible elders, that loved their pastor which in turn trickled down to loving me. When you are given the opportunity to see and experience a love like I have from the “Mother of the Church,” named Minnie Everett, your able to define what the word love truly means, and with that alone I have been truly blessed to have been my fathers daughter.

Although I was able to enjoy the perks of traveling, meeting a lot of people from different walks of life, eating first at church functions and getting a dollar after church from the deacons and a peppermint for the deaconess; a preachers daughter has duties. We have a role to play, presenting ourselves as well rounded, intelligent, conservative peacemakers that are leaders and not followers, talented but not boastful sheltered individuals, so that our parents image is not tainted.

When my father found out that I could sing, it was ALL OVER for me! I was in every event he was ever apart of. I sung at the Conventions regional, state and national gatherings, at the revivals, the rainbow teas, the wedding, the funerals and because my father is also an activist, I sung at rallies. I could go on, but I’m sure readers get my drift. So when my mother placed me in piano lessons at first I was joyful until I realized this would mean I was going to be in more events. NO! So after years of practicing I decided the piano and the hymn book combination was either going to be the life or death of my teen year., I had to make a break for it, I joined the track team at school. There went piano lessons, and I was saved by the speed of my feet; so, I thought.

I must have forgot that I have a patient and determined parent, which is suppose to be part of a preachers character, but I thought since I was on the track team I was excused for most of the church functions. I was wrong again, as the preacher he had the right to change the dates and time of events, and if there was a event during my track time, my father made sure he was there to support me and drive me to the event after my event. There was no hiding, but it was a lesson learned. We all have things we want to do, and that is great, but a “strong characters is built when your able to follow your desires and continue to be loyal and diligent in your responsibilities.”

I’ve been able to learn little lessons like this my entire life with my father never needing to break it down, because he taught me with his demonstrations through dedication to God, God’s House, and God’s people. I was blessed to be a PK. Advertise your business or event with Divine Connections . Call to advertise 336.965.0366