Women Empowering Women Magazine Summer Issue 2015

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

From

THE EDITIOR Dear Readers Summer is here and it’s time to put away the dark colours and heavy fabrics in exchange for bright colours and cotton/linen fabrics.

Don’t you just love Summer?

As always our issues are inviting, filled with rich content with a plan to empower you wherever you are in the world to be Kingdom Minded.

Apostle Dr Yana Johnson is our Woman Stepping Out! As she graces our cover this season we talk to her about what it really means to identify and use your gifts to create opportunities in your world.

Even though Women Empowering Women Magazine is written for the Kingdom minded woman, we have noticed that men are inspired by the articles published, therefore we have introduced a new section called The Kingdom Minded Man….Who Is He? I think many women need to know who such a man is and how he conducts his life in line with God’s Kingdom.

Finally, I am pleased to offer this season’s magazine free to all our readers for the month of August, so please use this time to download the magazine and read to your heart’s desire………….oh and pass it on so that others can also enjoy the rich content of our articles and subscribe for a whole year’s supply.

A Magazine for the Kingdom Minded Woman, Promoting her Style, Wholeness and Spiritual Etiquette.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Dr Yana is also offering discounts on her make-up range ‘Yana Cosmetics’ so don’t miss this opportunity to get the fantastic products on offer.

Here’s to you, our readers…have a wonderful summer and look forward to bringing you more in the coming season ahead.

Be Empowered, Be Kingdom Minded.

Prophet Jacqueline Ani

Be Empowered!

Jacqueline Ani Editor In Chief – Women Empowering Women Magazine

EDITOR IN CHIEF

JACQUELINE ANI

ASSISTANT EDITOR

TAMIKA PUSEY-SQUIRE

magazine@empworedwoman.org.uk www.wewmagazine.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

CONTENTS | SUMMER 2015 SPECIAL FEEATURE PROPHETESS JACQUELINE ANI Go Therefore

6

WOMAN STEPPING OUT! APOSTLE DR YANA JOHNSON Special Interview

10

HER STYLE

18 K B DAVIE Love 24 JOANNE AMOAKO I’m Still Standing 30 JUDY TOORIE Health & Nutrition for the Soul 34 DAVIDA YEMI-AKANLE Your Calling As A Pioneer 38

AYOOLA BANDELE Top 3 Summer Essentials Trends for Your Wardrobe

HER WHOLENESS

44 APOSTLE DR YANA JOHNSON The Who Do Men Say I Am? 51 HARRIET KHATABA The Journey… 54 NOREEN MAKOSEWE Personal Development Training In Africa 58

PASTOR MARIE- ROSE OMOKHODION Winning In Business Through Prayer

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

62 KATE OKOLI In Silence and Dignity, the Cry of the Single Parent 56 FATIMA DENGA Mastering Love 70 DR LEAH AKINLONU Demystifying Autism 76 BELINDA BARNABY When The Clock Strikes 12 82 DAWNIEL WINNINGHAM Know Your Value – Empower Your Finance

HER SPIRITUAL ETIQUETTE PASTOR SOLA DAWKINS The Glory of His Presence

86

LYNDA OJIAKOR The Gift of Righteousness 90 DR T AYODELE Kingdom Nuggets to Dealing with Depression 92

EMPOWERING THE YOUNGER WOMAN LAUREN LAMONT Be You! 96 KINGDOM MINDED MAN MINISTER VICTOR NWAORGU Kingdom Mindset 100 HASANI PETTIFORD Confessions of A Strong Black Man 104 TOKUNBO A. OSUNBAYO The Kingdom Minded Man pt1 108

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

GO | THEREFORE

By Prophetess Jacqueline Ani

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Special Feature | 7

T

his is an instruction I keep hearing in

This I believe is no coincidence as the eldest in

my spirit.

my family and my husband the eldest in his

This command is part of the great commission that was spoken to us by

Jesus before He was taken up to heaven to be with the Father.

Matthew 28: 19

family, the urgency of taking the baton to develop others, not just develop but ensure that God’s People are prepared for this end time period.

I sense an urgency like never before, we need to be equipped as leaders to support and empower

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,

others, to prepare people for the end.

baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Now I see that God has been working in me behind the scenes, so that I am equipped to

20. Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

As Citizens of the Kingdom, we are reminded that we have a work to do here on earth as we wait in expectation of Jesus’ return.

There is a shift in the spiritual realm, we have moved into a new season, we’re in a new dispensation and there is an urgent request for us to be in total alignment with the Spirit of God as He brings us in line with what He is doing at this time.

I remember in our Summer Issue 2014, I wrote

about passing the baton, my mother had passed away and it brought a sense of responsibility in my life as I realised that I had to step up in my role as a leader (servant) to those who need to be in position for the Kingdom.

This year, we’re also saying good bye to my mother in law who passed away in May and is to be buried in July 2015 a year from the time my own mother was buried. This time the call has been for my husband to step up to the role as leader (servant) for God’s Kingdom.

understand His Assignment in my life, because in this new dispensation we are called to take our place and to deliver His Message.

He is sending us to go and make disciples of His

people, make disciples of nations, make disciples of those who have been waiting, ready to work and build the Kingdom.

It’s no longer an appeal but an instruction, get people ready, prepare them, disciple them so that in hearing God, they will hear direction, instruction to strategize their move into their designated positions to be a light so that God can and will be glorified in their work.

We’re in a new season of leadership, a now and relevant word and we must align ourselves with what God is saying and doing in these times. The worst thing is to be out of season, to continue dealing with an old issue or old project when the season has changed.

I also discern that the season will open doors of opportunity for those who are focused on operating in God’s Will and purpose for their lives, so we must be in preparation, so that what was declared to us in the past will be seen in the

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8 | Special Feature present.

I believe that the great commission was given to us as disciples/leaders to be equipped with the word, the good news and with our gifts to go and prepare others with what we have learnt.

you’re sent you have the resources available for those who need it. God will always give us a period of grace to prepare for where we’re going. What resources do you need and who can help you prepare them? Being equipped also means being filled with His Word. I have come

How to Move Into This New Season

across many wonderful women of God who are

Avoid being distracted – I see it time and time

hungry for God and want to do His Work, but

again with people that I’ve mentored, coached or

sadly they lack discipleship. Some don’t know

taught, their predominant enemy is distraction.

how to hear from God and some don’t

Distraction takes your focus away from what

understand how to apply God’s word to their

you must do now. Our minds and circumstances

life to solve a problem. The bible tells us the put

can distract us from our assignment. A tip is to

on the full armour of God…what does that mean

identify where the distraction is coming from,

to you? Ephesians 6: 10-18

the enemy of our soul will draw our attention to issues we’ve been fighting for awhile and instead of taking authority we spend time worrying.

When the disciples we’re going to the other side, there was a storm that frightened them. Jesus was sleeping in the lower deck of the boat and

Identify your nation – who are you called to?

I’ve often said that your nation can most times

be the person who looked like you before you were delivered. What problem have you been called to solve? A clue would be to read Isaiah 61: 1-3.

when they woke Him, He rebuked the storm.

Nothing was going to stop them going to the other side. Mark 4:39

Be obedient and Go Therefore – At the wedding of Canaan, Jesus was called to turn water into wine. His mother told the disciples to do

Be relevant with God – we may be concentrating on projects that are out of season, similar to “flogging a dead horse”. It may also be that such projects may not be bad, but rather out of season.

It’s important to be relevant with what the Spirit of God is doing in this new season so that you

whatever He tells them to do. The bible tells us that obedience is better than sacrifice and also

that when we obey, we will eat the fruit of the land. What is God telling you to do so that you can enter into this new season and go therefore……? Micah 6:8

are ready to “Go Therefore”. There is nothing worse than praying to God to bless you in the way you want, rather than in the way He wants.

Such prayers can make you miss God’s movement in your life at this time.

Be equipped – do you have the necessary resources for this new season so that when

Romans 8:19 tells us that the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. You are the sons (daughters) of God and all of creation is waiting eagerly with so much expectation for you to take your position on earth to bring a move of God, for a touch from

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Special Feature | 9 God so that they are also liberated to serve God ready for the coming of the Messiah.

Go therefore and make disciples of your nation; operate in your authority and bring the light of Christ into your world, transform life’s and be a blessing, that is what God requires of us in this season and I know that He has provided for you to do His will….not yours…..but His!

Prophetess Jacqueline Ani is a life coach, mentor, author and inspirational speaker.

She is the founder of Empowered Woman International Ltd, an organisation that empowers women to empower their nation; she is also the programme director of The Mentoring Academy an institution that delivers programmes to transform the lives of individuals so that they can operate in their authority as Citizens of the Kingdom of God. Her mandate is to set the captives free, empower and release to the nations.

Prophetess Jacqueline Ani is a prolific speaker and is equipped to raise prophets for this end time period.

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Women

Stepping Out With Apostle Dr Yana Johnson SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Marketplace Apostle, Entrepreneur, Coach

Special Interview | 11

I met Dr Yana Johnson through a mutual friend.

WEW: When did you realise that your life’s purpose is to empower others in business?

During our first meeting we couldn’t stop talking, we had so much in common and I really wanted

I noticed an increase in Leaders, celebrities,

our readers to read about this amazing woman

entrepreneurs and people who work in

with such a heart of gold.

Government approach me for Business coaching

and personal mentoring and noticing the successes Dr Yana is a humble, ostentatious woman who

they achieved as a result. I then realised how

loves God and has achieved so much in her life as

powerful my gift is, its impact, purpose and

well as an MBE holder she has received many

effectiveness.

awards to reflect her contribution to society, especially within the beauty industry.

I realised that through my journey, skills and

She is passionate about sending people into the

experience and gifting that not only do I have a lot

market place fully equipped with their gifts and

to offer but I am able to give sound balanced

how to build businesses to contribute to the gospel.

advice and guidance. My experience allows me to

spot potentials and blockages and identify I hope this interview gives you a good insight into

blueprints for success. I am a resourceful problem

Dr Yana Johnson’s world.

solver, overcoming challenges and obstacles with precise strategic and Kingdom principals and

WEW: Who Is Dr. Yana Johnson

discernment.

I was created a worshipper, a creative being and

It is an honour to be called to serve in this way, but

one who is inquisitive for knowledge, philosophy,

it also comes with a great price of both spiritually

art, nature, love and balance in all things.

and physically. Apostles although mentioned as

the 1st Gift is actually the lowest servant level.

I was recently ordained Marketplace Apostle

Apostles have great perception and ability to

which is evidenced by everything I have ever done,

establish things in places and in people, they are

leaving behind a legacy and inspiration to those

necessary to get things done physically in the

whom I have served or who have encountered me

Kingdom and empower and teach others. They

in business and ministry.

hold keys of information, activation, impartation and release that once they speak into your life or

As a servant leader and my passion is helping

over a situation release you to the next level.

others reach their potentials, embracing diversity

and global partnering to pioneer and bring transformative change.

WEW: Tell us how you realised your brand in Yana products?

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12 | Women Stepping!

Foundation, Powder Foundation Duo, Eyeshadow Yana Cosmetics actually found me. I knew that the

Trio, fabulous Lip glosses, and Blushers.

UK needed better make up choices and an iconic figure to communicate what ‘Black Hollywood’

The Yana blueprint is to build leaders who sign up

represents as beauty, hair and makeup trends for

to the Yana Business Programme to resell the

the ethnic market.

products as a vehicle to building their business alongside with hairdressing, makeup services, or as

I was fortunate to meet my dear friend Ginger who

a makeup artist.

introduced me the industry of which I then developed a keen eye for colour, excellence and

WEW: So many people have ideas but yet not

makeup consultation as well as other services.

actualised or practised these ideas, what would be

After listening and encouraging many women, I

your advice to them?

provided solutions to the market needs that I had identified.

We need to confirm our purpose before we do anything, understanding the call on our life and

We began with pioneering custom blended

who we are will quickly validate how effective we

foundations for black skin listening to what the

will be in any venture. When God confirms it, we

client required and developing an ability to

have the confidence to step out and the covering to

respond to their needs. This is very much the same

be successful and the grace to attract the resources

as how in ministry we are best serving and

we need to reach completion.

discipline Leaders.

Usually with any business venture, is important Operating in integrity, honesty and love, we then

that we have identified the reason why we have

pioneered as the 1st independent Makeup brand in

started and also that we have a clear vision of the

Morleys Department Store Brixton, Allders

pitfalls and challenges. Lack of Finance and fear

Department Store, Croydon and James Selby’s

are usually the two most common stumbling blocks

Department Store in North London, as well as

that can hinder business startup.

small boutique with Makeup, Brow and beauty services under one roof, way ahead of its time

As a Christian business owner, I have developed a

compared to these services being offered now.

strategy to always seek God for the release, confirmation and information to guide me and instruct me in how and what I should pursue and

WEW: What are the various products distributed

most of all know the timing in which to function.

by Yana

Yana Cosmetics has launched the new ‘Beauty for

WEW: What would be a good starting point for

Ashes’ Makeup range consist ing of Creme

them to launch out?

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

14 | Women Stepping!

Your Faith is the best starting for anything because if God is involved, you can expect growth. When you launch out the vision must be clear and you will require self-motivation and believe to birth your vision correctly. I have seen many businesses start up and flop. The long term vision will always keep you focused when you lose steam. Pray, research, Plan, get confirmation and then launch.

WEW: You’re a very multitalented woman, how are you able to translate this into fulfilling purpose and building God’s Kingdom?

I am a psalmist, entrepreneur, Intl Business Coach, Mentor, mum and have many creative

skills such as; Sewing, Knitting Makeup artistry, Hairdressing, Gardening, DIY due to having creative exposure when I was younger.

However, Servant Leadership is the key to success. I desire to build people and see them reach their potentials and I am not afraid to see them excel beyond what I have achieved.

I believe in Dr Myles Munroe’s principal of passing on the baton to the next generation. The skills I achieved from being around elders who passed the baton on to me ensured that I had something to give to the next generation. We all have this responsibility to achieve excellence in our lives and leave behind a legacy.

As an Apostle, a lot of my achievements have

dug a well and brought life into a City region or country paving the way for the next person to follow in my footsteps with an example that we SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Women Stepping! | 15

can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. When I meet people, from all walks of life, I am able to discern their giftings, I have great joy in imparting encouragement and equip on how to reach your potential. It blesses me and fulfils my assignment in the Kingdom.

WEW: Explain to us what it means to release and impart the gifts into others?

My life is a testimony, when you visit my website, you look and see what has actually been achieved. Without words, the images communicate relationship, love, interaction, help, teamwork, travel, unity. I could get very complex about impartation but I am not

religious. The first starting point to releasing the gifts is to communicate that we can step out in faith and love and use what we have, give of our time and love and empower someone else.

Spiritually when God sees you handling that well, you will find that at different points in your life you are actively aware of your spiritual gifts which do make room for you in your life, they are never taken away but if misused are not as effective as they were

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

16 | Women Stepping! designed to be in the lives of others. To impart is

and pull down and utilise the Kingdom wealth

to give, assist or release spiritual gifts for the

for the effective and wise use in fulfilling

enabling of work in ministry to redeem people

Kingdom work both financially and physically

through that gift, for example singing/worship,

with innovation and principals that create and

encouraging/evangelism, teaching/discipling etc

maintain wealth.

WEW: God is raising a new breed of apostles

Marketplace ministers are being stirred and

and prophets, do you think the church is aware

unified. There is a special authority and grace of

of the shift and if not why not?

these ministers to attain wealth with integrity.

They have spiritual keys, understand timings and

The bible says that the Prophet is subject to the

have a special grace and understanding to make

Prophet.

global transformations.

I have noticed that in the UK many leaders have not released or ordained Apostles and Prophets,

WEW: What is the next step for Yana Products?

yet they exist and are functioning in their

giftings. many untrained or supported for

Yana Cosmetics has launched the ‘Beauty for

maximum effect in the Kingdom.

Ashes’ Makeup range online in the US, and is signing up entrepreneurs for the Yana Business

The spiritual history of the UK birthed revivalists

Programme, raising Leaders who will retail Yana

and evangelists fully on fire for God. I believe

Cosmetics in their City. The ‘Beauty for Ashes

when we allow the 5 fold gifts to fully arise in the

Empowerment Conference’ is an event that

Churches in their authority in unity the spiritual

encompasses a travelling 1 day seminar with

atmosphere in the UK will shift. We are in a

discounted Makeup on the day and Business sign

season of the Apostolic dispensation and we need

up opportunities.

to raise up the prophetic gifts in people for the outpouring and releasing of those called by God to advance the Kingdom in authority.

WEW: Where can we get up to date information about your cosmetics and other products?

WEW: The bible says the wealth of the wicked is laid up for the righteous and a good man

For more information visit

leaves an inheritance for his children’s children,

www.yanacosmetis.com or Yana Cosmetics Inc

how is this scripture actually relevant to what

on Facebook or email directly to

God is doing with present day market

info@yanacosmetics.com.

ministers?

Marketplace ministers are designed to identify

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Women Stepping! | 17

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

18 | Her Style

3

SUMMER 2015 Winning Wardrobe Essentials

By Ayoola Bandele

Summer is upon us and it gives me great pleasure to share the current trends, report with you. You must have seen them in the shops, in fact I am sure you probably have indulged in adding a piece or two of the new season to your wardrobe. I am here to share the best and timeless wardrobe pieces to add to your increasing wardrobe this season.

There has not been a better time than now to invest in stripes. It's clean, it's elegant, it saves you time and it saves you money, it's also the master of disguise.

Clean fashion is the next new thing everybody must embrace.

It's less hassle and it creates the right attention. Stripes help you solve the problem of 'I have nothing to wear' most especially on the day you are in a hurry for that ‘special’ appointment.

Vertical and asymmetrical stripes Image Source: courtesy of Myss at mysilhouettestyle.com

are slimming for the curvaceous, well-endowed sisters and mothers. If emphasising your

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

size is your fashion statement,

Her Style | 19

“

Clean fashion is the next new thing everybody must embrace.

�

Image Source: Miss Ghana UK contestant 2014 Photoshoot styled by Ayoola Bandele of MySilhouetteStyle.com at The Regent, North Finchley

wear it again in the Autumn/winter trend.

You can dress it up or dress it down. As shown in the images below. Myss wore a vertical skirt to slim down her waist and a horizontal jumper to create the right balance with her maxi dress. Stripes are all about creating balanced proImage Source: Google Images - Vertical/Asymmetrical Stripes

portions of your body shape.

If for whatever reason, wearing stripes as a clothing item

then wearing horizontal stripes is your best choice. Horizontal stripes creates a balanced illusion to the eye, unless you want to flaunt your body shape by wearing outfits that emphasises your size, then horizontal stripes is your best choice.

is too much for you to handle, then update your wardrobe accessories in the trend.

A lovely pair of stripy shoes is an instant outfit lift, so invest in one.

The best part of adding this trendy piece in your wardrobe is that, it never goes out of fashion and you get to SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

20 | Her Style

Shop Stripes for your body shape with mysilhouettestyle.com

Contact silhouettelondon@hotmail.co.uk for current fashion trends and styles suited to your body shape.

Image Source: Horizontal Stripes on thenewfashion.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 21

Florals are a repeated trend.

Industry experts and fashion influencers create new floral ,

designs to whet consumer's appetite in fashion every year.

Florals are inspired by nature, culture and are appealing to the eye. Florals are to fashion trend as flowers are to wedding seasons.

They never go out of fashion just as flowers never go out of season.

Have you ever noticed the change in mood, the bright smile and self confidence in anybody wearing florals? That is the secret. They come around in summer and wisp you into a very good mood.

Image Source: courtesy of Myss at mysilhouette

Florals create just the right atmosphere around you.

Just as weddings boomers create the demand for flowers during its peak season in summer, fashion trend forecasters have analysed this one seasonal trend that changes things and everybody, it is a must have for your wardrobe. So get on board and invest in a timeless unique floral outfit that you can dress up or dress down. To motivate you in investing in florals, check out these inspirational ways fashion bloggers are wearing florals, hopefully you'll be drawn to the best floral pattern for your body shape.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

22 | Her Style

Image Source: Courtesy of grownandcurvywoman, addictedtoEtsy,

“Denim is one of the world’s oldest fabrics, yet it

presidents, housewives, students and everybody

remains eternally young”, American fabrics

wears denim. It is comfortable, durable, long lasting

magazine writer (1969). It was originally developed

and a really good value for money. Visit

for cowboys and miners due to its lasting fabric. It

www.pinterest.com/silhouettetrend for endless

can be worn for work or for fashion only. It is one

possible ways to wear your denim jeans. For a

piece of clothing you can practically live in. You can

starter, be inspired by the way Africans are rustling

dress it up or dress it down and wear it all year

things up with jeans in the fashion world.

round depending on your style personality. Denims are a piece clothing material that you would not normally dare to wear in the summer heat because of its thickness but this fabric has become a summer trend here to stay in fashion forever.

It may have been designed for cowboys and factory workers but supermodels, farmers,

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 23

Image Source: Courtesy of Stylepantry, addictedtoEtsy, lovebrownsugar, Shala Monroque, Ayoola is a seasoned style consultant. She has

Ayoola is passionate about helping people project

worked with highly sought after high end fashion

the right image. She would love to see the minority

retailers in the UK. She has tremendous work

groups in the spotlight having had their confidence

experience as a sales consultant, wardrobe/fitting

built up. Myss has been set up just for YOU. The

room advisor and style consultant at LKBennet

focus is to help you maximise your assets, build

London, Hobbs Ltd and Kew Ltd, three of the well

your confidence and discover your style. Contact

favoured retailers by royalties such as Kate

her on silhouettelondon@hotmail.co.uk

Middleton.

Ayoola Bandele is an image consultant who offers unique services unique and tailored to individuals and personalities. Perhaps you are looking to portray the right image for those special occasions, or you just want to declutter your wardrobe. My services are classy, sassy, edgy, cool, decent and unique. Contact me for fashion and style advice. Are you willing to work with me in becoming the real valuable, unique you? Do not hesitate to contact me.

God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly much more than you could ever ask or think of. He is about to do something GREAT. Only if you ask, seek and knock. https: silhouettetrends.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

24 | Her Style

comprehend it fully. We search and yearn for it; yet it seems difficult to grasp and hold on to.

L

. O.V. E. Four letters, making up a single word.

What exactly is “Love”?

We hear so much of it, it is mentioned everywhere, and often, we spend most of our lives searching for it.

Love is the most misunderstood, misappropriated and misconstrued word in the history of mankind. We define our lives and relationships by it; yet we are unable to SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

It has been dubbed the “greatest emotion in the world”. Some identify it as a powerful neurological condition; much like hunger or thirst, only more permanent. Others talk about it as being blind, or a “passionate” commitment.

Some say it is basically chemistry - a cocktail of endorphins and neuro-transmitting chemicals emanating from our human brains, creating a fuzzy wuzzy feeling.

According to human definitions, Love is a variety of different feelings, states and attitudes

Her Style | 25

By K B Davies

that range from interpersonal affection, to pleasure. It can refer to an emotion, a strong attraction, and personal attachment or a virtue representing human kindness, compassion, and affection.

However, Love is not a human creation, yet we continuously attempt to define it. This is why our definitions always come up short, and why we are still yearning and seeking to find or understand it. Love is NOT what we think it is; and this article aims to challenge its worldly perception and definition.

We tend to believe Love is a mere emotion; and thus treat it as such. This results in a lot of pain

for ourselves and others. Emotions are ever changing and undependable. If you believe love is an emotion, it will behave like one. It will be transient, fickle, erratic, and unreliable.

There is ONLY one “Love�; and it is not a feeling. It is not the nebulous human emotion we feel, nor is it an intellectual concept or a moral imperative. Love is a command from God. It is a choice and it requires sacrifice.

It cannot be bought, won, earned or deserved. It is freely given, and not based on what anyone does, or does not do. It is fully unconditional.

Love is the one thing that binds the whole of humanity, and indeed the world together.

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26 | Her Style It is a living conscious energy that we imbibe when we connect to God at Spirit level. This energy is God, and God is Love. It is not possible to talk about Love without talking about God. Simply put, God is Love, and Love is God. Both are the same and cannot be separated.

“GOD IS LOVE; and that is the beginning and end of the matter”

You cannot make someone love you, nor can you prevent it. Love cannot be imprisoned nor can it be legislated. It is not a substance, nor is it a commodity. It is not a feeling, emotion, nor does it possess territory or borders. It cannot be contained; as it is a spiritual essence, rather than a carnal essence.

The main reason we struggle with the concept of Love is because we are trying to comprehend a spiritual concept with a human mind and worldly understanding. True Love transcends all physicality and the “flesh”.

Make no mistake, Love is a spiritual concept. It does not emanate from your brain or flesh. What the world understands as Love is really an insult to the real thing.

Is Love Blind?

The world says Love is blind; but this is patently untrue. It is a saying originating from society, and steeped in the patterns of this world. It is simultaneously an oxymoron, as much as a paradox. Believing love is “blind” is simply attempting to do the impossible; and this only result in failure.

Simply put, you cannot be “blind” to things you have already seen, experienced and perceived.

Also, we see no evidence of this so called “blindness” of love. Marriages are not lasting longer, relationships are not more fulfilling, we

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

are not treating each other better, and hunger and poverty are not declining.

Love is NOT blind. It is all seeing. Indeed, it is the ability of true Love to see, but still rise above, ignore and transcend perceived injustices and flaws that makes it such a potent weapon. But this is NOT the same as being “blind”.

Love is NOT about accepting other people’s flaws and bad behaviour, or being “blind” to

“

Love is a command from God. It is a choice and it requires sacrifice.

”

them. It is about accepting that whilst these things EXIST in them, it does not define them.

This distinction is crucial to make. It is about looking beyond the flesh, and into the Spirit.

Christ accepts and loves us; but He does not accept the sin in us, or the darkness in our hearts. He simply loves us; despite these things.

Does Love Hurt?

Does it really? Or do we just give ourselves the excuse not to love easily and readily? Pain hurts.

Betrayal hurts. Rejection hurts. Treachery hurts.

Deception hurts. Dishonesty hurts.

Unfaithfulness hurts. Disappointment hurts.

Broken Expectations hurts, and human beings hurt each other, but Love does not hurt. It is patient and kind. It is sacrificial and selfless. It does not envy or boast, nor is it proud or vainglorious. It is not rude, selfish or gets upset

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

28 | Her Style with others. LOVE is the only thing that can cover all the pain and anguish and make us feel wonderful. It always trusts. It always hopes, and it always endures.

If you do not love yourself, it will be impossible to love someone else. Unfortunately, whilst most people claim to love themselves, their thoughts, words and actions prove otherwise.

Is Love free?

You cannot claim to love yourself and have negative thoughts. You cannot claim to love yourself and constantly put yourself down. You cannot claim to love yourself when you are constantly judging other.

Love is Sacrifice. Both are two sides of the same coin; and it is impossible to have one without the other. You cannot claim to love, without being willing to make a sacrifice. You cannot claim to love without entertaining the possibility of being hurt. Love does NOT hurt, but the price it cost can.

People say God’s love is free; but again, this not true. Just because it is freely given to us, does not mean there was no cost or sacrifice involved.

God’s love for us cost him his Son, Jesus Christ.

He died for us whilst we were still sinners. To demonstrate the magnitude of his love for us, God decided to sacrifice his ONLY Son; just so we have the benefit of his love brings. That is sacrifice.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” If Love has no cost, and requires no sacrifice, then it should be quite easy to love those who hate us, or indeed love our enemies. Anyone can love someone who makes them happy; but can they love someone who makes them unhappy?

Can a husband love his quarrelsome wife unconditionally? Anyone can submit to someone who “deserves” it; but can a wife submit to her difficult husband even if he doesn’t deserve it? Don’t get it twisted; Love costs, and Love Is Sacrifice..

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love Your Neighbour as Yourself”

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

You cannot claim to love yourself and indulge in destructive addictions or have an unhealthy lifestyle. All these indicate that you do NOT truly love yourself; even though you think you do.

As most people are unable to love themselves, they are also unable to love other people.

Remember, we are talking about the true definition of Love here; and not the simple conditional human emotion.

When you are unable to love yourself, you begin to seek love in other people or in other things.

You put unnecessary importance into “finding” this love and it becomes something that defines your life. You believe this love is what will make you happy, and searching for love in others becomes a priority, or an obsession.

When you truly love yourself, you will not put precedence on finding love in others; for you already love yourself, and you know God loves you. It will simply be a bonus. It will be something that adds to your happiness; rather than define it. You will never have the mind-set that another human being can complete you; because they simply can’t.

“You cannot love somebody else until you love yourself; and you cannot love yourself until you understand God loves you”

What people tend to do is put themselves first.

This is Selfishness, and not Love. Loving

Her Style | 29 yourself is about awareness of who you are, acceptance of your flaws, warts and impediments; without ANY judgement, and acknowledgement that you can be better than what you currently are. True Love is selfless; as it cannot be confined to self. It is not selfish to love oneself; but it is selfish to love ONLY yourself.

Are There Different Types of Love?

There is ONLY one “Love”; and it is fully unconditional. We are simply commanded to love each other in this manner. There is no special kind of love set apart for our loved ones, spouses, children or relatives. It is man that designated different types of Love; and not God When you are able to love yourself unconditionally, it will not be difficult to love another unconditionally. Unconditional Love is not predicated on what people do, or don’t do. It is not based on their relationship to us, nor does it depend on who they are.

good and fulfil something in us. In the world, it is also seen as foolish to love our enemies, or those that hurt us.

However, based on spiritual reasoning, we should love those who hate us, love our enemies, and love our neighbour as ourselves, and be willing to lay down our lives for ANYONE. This IS Unconditional Love.

What stops us from being able to love the right way is Fear. They say the opposite of Love is Hate, or Indifference, or Apathy. It is none of these. The true opposite of Love is Fear; and fear is a result of operating in Ego State or the Flesh. It is the weapon of choice for the Prince of This World; for it is born out of deceit.

Fear is what stops us from loving. The fear of rejection, fear of being hurt, fear of pain, fear of being vulnerable, fear of the unknown, fear of being powerless, fear of disappointment, fear of others opinions, fear of our own feelings, fear of looking like a fool, etc.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends”

When we also see ourselves as separate from others, and thus create an identity that confirms that As human beings, we reserve a special love for separation; this leads to a fear of the “other”. our partners, friends and spouses; all because they However, in Christ, we are all one, and there is no separation. fulfil a need in us. We reserve a special love for our children; because they are ours. We reserve a To love freely takes courage, and Courage is the special love for our relatives, kin, friends, etc.; all antidote to Fear. Unconditional Love is not about because of their relationship to us. However; there loving people. It is about having the courage to die is no “specialness” in Love. All are equal. for them. This is what Love is.

Based on worldly reasoning, we either love those who love us, or we love those who make us feel

Mr Keni B Davies is the Founder of Transformational Power - a coaching and motivational practice that helps individuals, businesses and organizations achieve their visions and exceed their dreams. www.transformational-power.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

30 | Her Style

I’m Still STANDING

By Joanna Amoako

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 31

M

y

recollection

childhood memories

of

has of

my

With the passage of time, I came to realise

great

the fact that life is not a joking matter. It

living

a

does not really matter how well prepared

sheltered and protected

we think we are, the journey of life can still

life. I was brought up by loving parents who

throw some surprises we did not envisage

instilled in me Christian principles as well

our way. We are not exempted from the

as good moral values. I had the best

battles that life often presents to us. No

opportunities at my disposal and backed by

matter how much we think we are fortified,

the relentless support of both my parents

there

and great mentors I excelled in every sphere

unexpected circumstances and rigours of

of my life as a young woman. This bubble

life. In the book of Job 14:1, Job cautions us

created an exciting and expectant notion

that:

is

still no immunity from

the

that life was all too rosy.

“Human beings born by women are short-lived Everything I so desired seemed to be going

and full of trouble” – (ISV)

in the right direction and falling in place for me. By the time I reached the prime of my

We must understand that for as long as the

life, I had all a woman could ever dream of.

world has existed, adversities, challenges,

I had achieved a high level of education and

trials and tribulations have been a part of

was well established in a fulfilling career

the cycle of life. There are no definitive

where I was yielding great achievements. I

guarantees that life will be plain sailing. I

was very content and happily married to a

experienced this shocking wake-up call in

God-fearing, honourable and remarkable

the year 2009. I can still recollect the wave of

man with the added blessing of two

events as if it were today. Without so much

amazing children. As is the desire of every

as a ‘BEWARE’ alert, the entire fibre of my

woman, I was feeling secure emotionally,

life got hit by a torpedo of eventualities.

physically,

more

Both the lives of my family and I became

especially financially. There was no cause

ravished by a succession of legal battles

for alarm in my mind as the level we had

which resulted in the crumbling of my

attained enabled us to enjoy the blessing of

dreams, hopes and aspirations. What began

material gains. Through shrewd thinking

as an innocent naïve choice I had made a

and good strategic planning, we had

few

established good investments that would

uncontrollable blazing inferno where I was

allow us to live comfortably without

implicated in a scandal spanning across five

exerting pressure on the quality of our lives.

governmental bodies. Overwhelmed by the

Honestly, the future I thought was looking

enormity of the scandal, my life was thrown

very idyllic and blissful.

into utter chaos and turmoil from the

psychologically,

and

years

prior,

sparked

into

an

lengthy legal process which dragged on for

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

32 | Her Style years. I was left helpless and hopeless with no

no money and sanctions imposed on my basic

ounce of strength to salvage the wreckage that

ability to obtain any kind of employment, life

was threatening to grind my very existence to an

had become futile.

abrupt halt. It was just by the sheer mercy, kindness, faithfulness and grace of the Almighty

In my lowest moments when I thought that all

God that I narrowly escaped imprisonment.

hope was lost, God had a bigger and greater plan! Yet again, He rescued me from suicide. In

I was engaged in a ‘fight’ with institutions that

the past few years I have been entangled in

were too powerful to contest. In my view, there

tempestuous battles, but God has fought on my

was no way I could contend their dynamic legal

behalf and delivered me out of them all. (Psa.

strength. I watched helplessly as my reputation

34:19)

was brought to disrepute both professionally and personally. My credibility, integrity and

I have seen many dark and rocky days. Days of

honour were ghastly smeared and ridiculed. I

anguish, of extreme lack and insufficiency, of

felt like I had been stripped bare. The worse

uncertainties and hardships. However, I have

however was yet to come. The knock-on effect of

made it my personal goal never to dwell and

these concurrent legal battles left my family and

wallow on the negatives. Rather, I glory in all the

I penniless. We lost all our material possessions

many blessings that God brought my way. God

except for the roof that was over our heads. Life

miraculously always created opportunities and

became an uphill struggle as we sank under an

avenues to sustain us.

insurmountable pile of debts. With two small children, we could barely afford the daily

The tempestuous storms of life only last but for a

necessities of life.

moment. No matter how horrendous it seems to be raging, be assured that there is a guaranteed

I was managing to endure the strain of pressure

rest promised for the people of God (Heb. 4:9)

from the concurrent legal battles. The threat of

being incarcerated was frightening but I still

I may have lost material possessions, but now I

tried

Losing

have gained my purpose in life. The odds that

also

stood against me was orchestrated by Satan to

destabilising as I faced an uncertain future.

terminate my life but God has turned it all

However, the financial constraint was the final

around for His glory and established me on the

supportive

path of fulfilling my destiny.

to

properties

brave

my way

and

through.

investments

wedge

that

was

brought

the

firm

structure of my life tumbling down. I was at my wits

end.

This

is

when

I

contemplated

Today,

I’M

STILL

ALIVE!!

I’M

STILL

committing suicide as it seemed like the easiest

STANDING!! In spite of the adversities I’ve had

form of relief from the buckling endless weight

to endure, God is now using my testimony to

of pressure. With no career, no job, absolutely

build people’s lives across many nations.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 33 Wherever I’ve had the opportunity to share my

to alter your destiny. Reach out with ardent zeal

story (in much more depth), people are

and faith to grasp the fullness of God’s intended

empowered, encouraged and inspired. The

glory for your life.

books I have published and the articles that I write keep setting a flame of hope ablaze in the hearts of many. God has raised me up from the sinking sand of despair to become a voice of healing, deliverance and hope to the nations.

I encourage you too that no matter the trial you are facing today, don’t give up hope. Don’t succumb to despair. There are times when you might be overwhelmed with fear and anxiety, but the question is what will you do with your fear? King David in Psalm 56:3 testified that in these times he would rather focus on trusting in the Lord. The raging, roaring, and billowing

storms around you are only momentary. Stand firm and be resilient as you weather the storms of life.

The most crucial message I would like to highlight is that the only reason I was able to endure the afflictions that confronted me was solely because of my relationship with the LORD JESUS CHRIST. He is the only reliable anchor that we can hold on to when bombarded by the vicissitudes of life. You were born with great potential and worth. Refuse to allow life’s events

Enforcing Your Destiny Contending With Your Prophetic Word Have you ever wondered what you are on earth for?

Have you ever questioned what the essence of life is?

Do you doubt that you’ve enjoyed all that life has to offer? From your perspective, how do you measure whether you’ve lived a successful and fulfilling life or not?

These are some of the imposing questions and themes that this book seeks to address, bringing to the reader’s attention the fact that we each have a unique destiny to fulfil. Each one of us has a different pathway.

We individually are either to become something specific, be influential in a prescribed domain, accomplish a unique feat, reach a height and degree of immeasurable success and prosperity, be exposed to a peculiar level of recognition – the list is endless. The question is: ARE YOU WHO YOU WERE DESTINED TO BECOME? This book aims to enlighten and empower you to vehemently and fervently lay claim to what God has rightfully declared as your glorious destiny.

Joanna Amoako is a successful published author, freelance writer and editor with a

highly passionate personality. Her debut publication “Keep Your Posture When the Storms are Raging” highlights her sensational story of resilience and enduring faith.

Joanna’s latest release “Enforcing Your Destiny – contending with your prophetic word”

is a destiny changing book and a definite must-read. She has also been involved in collaborative projects with seasoned and renowned authors.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

34 | Her Style

Creating

ANOTHER YOU NutritionDiscipleship & Health in Business for your

SO U L

By Judy Toorie

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

By Amber Ekomie

Her Style | 35

W

e often hear the term

the soul – which is the mind, will &

emotional wellbeing but

emotions. God wants what has happened in

do we know what it

our spirit, to affect our soul. Jesus wants to

means. One definition

make us whole spirit, soul and body.

says it is “Being able to understand the

value of your emotions and how to use them

Our mind, will and emotions work together.

to move your life forward in positive

What we eat and drink can affect our

directions”. Emotional wellbeing is to be

emotions, our concentration levels and how

rich in health, which means to have a

we feel in our body. Proper nutritional

healthy soul; this is our mind, will and

meals, helps towards us getting the balance

emotions. In order to get to that place, we

in our daily lives. Our daily intake of food

need to spend time in God’s presence daily,

not only help to fuel our body but also to

seeking him and trusting him to change us

feed our mind and emotions, which then

and help us. This is a process that takes time

affects our will and our decision to make

and a daily submission to God of our mind,

right choices. Nowadays we are so busy that

will and emotions Romans 12 v 2. We are

the nourishment our bodies are getting is

not able to do this in our own strength but

not sufficient. We tend to go for the short

with the help of God and his word, we will

term quick fix fast foods such as cakes,

soon be able to replace our old thought

chocolate and fizzy drinks and what we

patterns, manage our emotions and our self-

deem to be the cheaper options financially

will will begin to line up with God’s will for

but nutritional wise and health wise, in the

our life.

long term, this can be costly. Health problems such as obesity, heart disease and

When we are born again 2 Corinthians 2 v

diabetes can end up costing not only

16 we are new creatures in Christ Jesus. It

financially, but also time in medical

can be pertained to when a woman gets

appointments, depleted energy levels and

married, her surname changes. This change

can even lead to affecting the way our

of surname is then documented and

bodies function.

reflected in her personal paperwork, such as her passport, driving licence and sometimes

The foods we eat can also be connected to

even involves a change of location. Our

our emotions and how we are feeling. At

passport changed from the kingdom of

times when we feel low or have not had a

darkness to the kingdom of light, when we

good day, we begin to let other areas of our

became born again. There is a

lives slip. We then start to eat “comfort

transformation process that begins on the

food” e.g. chocolate, cakes, biscuits and

inside automatically, our spirit is

sugary food or drinks. These foods can be

transformed but it is a working through to

high in short term energy but have very little SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

36 | Her Style nutritional value. It has been said that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables can help to improve the way we feel and increase our energy levels. Eating a variety of different coloured fruits and vegetables every day means your body; mind and emotions are being fed a good range of nutrients Listed below are some suggested fruit and vegetables recipes. Feel free to experiment and swap fruit and vegetables around.

Lunchtime Lift 5 Kale leaves 1 braeburn apple 2 carrots 1 to 2 celery sticks (remove the leaves) Small piece of ginger Kale and carrots are good for the bones and eyesight and celery helps to keep you hydrated, whilst apples are known to give you energy.

Morning Energiser 1 cup of fresh cranberries 1 orange

There is a wider variety of fruit and vegetables this time of the year. God is interested in every area of our lives. He is not

½ a cup of fresh raspberries or cherries

just interested in the spiritual but also the

Lemon juice

physical 3 John 2.

Cranberries, raspberries and cherries are high in

Ladies, let us take some time to think about

antioxidants and vitamin C and fiber. These fruits

the foods and drinks that we are putting into

are known to help in the fight against disease.

our bodies and whether they are helping us or harming us.

JUDY TOORIE My passion is to help the Body of Christ to gain an awareness and understanding of the importance of nutrition, health and fitness.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

38 | Her Style

Your Calling as a Need You…

PIONEER I DON’T NEED YOU

By Davida Yemi-Akanle

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 39

I

f you have been called to pioneer a work for Christ, you are in great company; God himself was the first pioneer. From his abode in heaven he claimed the unclaimed territories of what we now know as the earth.

“1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. 3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.

Genesis 1:1-4 In this example that God gave as the first pioneer, we see the pattern that is laid for all future Kingdom pioneers to follow: taking light into darkness, having dominion.

WHO IS A PIONEER? The pioneer is a transformational servant leader; they lead the way in the transformation of hearts, minds, communities, cities and nations. They spearhead a new cause. A Christian pioneer advances the things of God, the Kingdom of God. To be a pioneer can mean to be the first amongst many to go into an unknown territory. It can carry the meaning of being the first amongst many who prepares the way for others to follow. A pioneer charts a new course, they claim unclaimed spiritual, mental or physical territories, and they

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

40 | Her Style settle new settlements and ensure that they are

up their crosses to follow Christ. These are

firmly established.

pioneers that were full of the Word and possessed by the Holy Spirit; they did not love their lives to

CREATORS OF THE NEW NORMAL

cower in the face of death.

Pioneers lay foundations; they place down the structures for future generations to build upon.

A SENT ONE AND A PIONEER OF NEW

They build in the now, the things that the future

BEGINNINGS

generations will later deem as normal. They are the creators of the “New Normal.”

A pioneer is a sent one, one sent to pioneer new beginnings. Some Old

Pioneers are visionaries; they see those things that others have not yet seen. They live in a different

Testament pioneers, include Adam and Eve they

world, one that is well ahead of their time and

were pioneers for the human race, they were given

because of this they are most often misunderstood

the mandate of populating the world with their

and resisted by their contemporaries, who often

kind, ruling God’s earthly creation and managing

catch the vision years later.

his resources.

The task of the pioneer is to:

“28God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule



lead the way



open up new territories

Genesis 1:28



break new ground

Noah was also an Old Testament pioneer, and so



initiate new works



prepare and equip the people



establish God’s kingdom.

over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

was Moses.

In the New Testament John the Baptist was a pioneer sent to prepare the way for Jesus to come, his work was fundamental, Mark 1:2-4. Jesus was a pioneer sent to found the Church. And Paul, led by the Holy Spirit, was a pioneer instrumental in taking Christianity into new Gentile territories,

SPEARHEADING AND SACRIFICE God's kingdom in the earth has been advanced

through the sweat, labour and blood of pioneers.

These are pioneers that were unrelenting in the face of difficulties. These are pioneers that picked SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Acts 13:2.

Her Style | 41 RECEIVING THE VISION

spirit filled and have the establishment of God's purposes in the earth as their main focus.

A pioneer does not just run, they must first be envisioned. Pioneers receive the vision firsthand

SPEARHEADING AND CONVICTION

from God. They receive this vision in a dream, vision, through a prophetic word etc. The pioneer

The Pioneer must be fully persuaded of their call.

is envisioned by heaven. Their orders are to carry

They must have a strong personal relationship with

out heaven’s desires and decrees, and establish

The Lord; they must "know" God. They must also

God's will in the earth as it is in heaven.

understand that they and God are a majority. The persuasion of the pioneer is what turns them into

Jesus in teaching his disciples to pray taught his

another person, one God can work through. They

disciples a pioneer’s prayer:

must be able to answer the questions:

“10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it  is in heaven...” Matthew 6:10.

"What do I believe in?"



"Why do I believe in it?"



"What will I do to defend my belief?"

The pioneer does well to document the vision they receive, so as to have something to refer back to,

meditate on till they become one with the vision, an embodiment of the vision, till the fire of this vision burns within their heart, till they can do nothing else but live out this vision because they have become consumed by it.

They must have to courage to stand alone and speak truth in love in a world of political correctness and globalism that says, “Let's just go along with the majority.” They must have the courage to stand for God, the courage to speak out.

Just as Jesus said to his disciples regarding his vision: "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work." (John 4:34) and like what Paul said to King Agrippa: "I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision." (Acts 26:19).

The Pioneer, although inspired by heaven, is not absolved of earthly accountability. Paul made himself accountable to the elders of the Church for confirmation of the vision. His purpose for doing so was that he wanted to make sure that he was not running his race in vain. In the same way it is often a good thing to have others who we can be accountable to as pioneers; these others should be

I love this poem which highlights the importance of speaking out:

"First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—Because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me."

The pioneer is revolutionary. They are not content

with the status quo, thus they tend to disturb the status quo, but they make a positive impact as they go.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

42 | Her Style SPEARHEADING AND PERSECUTION

gifting’s, which makes the difficult easy for them as they operate in God's strength.

The pioneer goes through a lot of persecution while they are spearheading transformation. They

Pioneers are seen establishing works in all

are often not understood, as a result they require a

spheres of society e.g. the Church, orphanages,

boldness; this boldness often comes from their deep communion with the Holy Spirit, knowing who they have

believed in, not being afraid of standing alone and having the courage and faith to step into the unknown.

The pioneer leads by example and is a

tireless worker.

They understand that although there are many open doors, there is still an adversary, thus they exercise caution by choosing not to be self directed, and chose to be led by the Holy

Spirit. They understand that in submission to God and to other structures of authorities is their protection.

educational institutions, bible schools, hospitals, social movements, business, politics, sports, the media etc. These are all vehicles that God uses for blessing humanity. However, as a kingdom pioneer, we must not forget or neglect our main responsibility which is souls.

They are tactful. They learn to be wise as serpents and guileless as doves. They resist social and peer pressure, and take it as given that they must be a God pleaser and must often be ready to endure hardship for the sake of the Gospel.

PIONEERING MODELS The models for pioneering vary, as the Holy Spirit

leads, however in my observation of how pioneering work takes place, we see a range of FOUNDING AND ESTABLISHING

trends forming. Some: pioneer a new work and stay with it, others pioneer a work and leave it in

The Pioneer's task, like we have already

the care of others for who nurture it. Pioneering

mentioned, is to establish the Kingdom of God is a

can include starting up a new work from scratch

given area: at home or away. Some will receive

or extending the boundaries of an existing work

the Pioneer, others wouldn’t, however they must

and going into new territories.

never waver at carrying out their Ambassadorial

duties and doing what is right. The pioneer must rely on God’s direction and their God-given

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 43 TEAM BUILDING AND SETTING SYSTEMS IN PLACE God’s visions always include others: Jesus launched his ministry with the calling of others to his vision, the pioneer often needs others to work alongside them to accomplish their task.

The pioneer leads by example and is a tireless worker. Following God's example, after founding a work, they set a team and systems in place for stability, growth and longevity.

The pioneer’s desire is to build something that will last, so they strive to build on a firm foundation, which is Christ.

Davida Yemi-Akanle is an Apostle to the Marketplace and Nations, she has written several books on ministry and the marketplace. You can visit her website at www.davidayemiakanle.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

44 | Her Wholeness

Winning in Business TH R OU G H

PRAYER

By Marie- Rose Omokhodion

In this article we will focus on the necessity and power of the effectual and dynamism of prayer in the diverse areas of business transaction.

What is Prayer?

Prayer can be defined as asking, seeking and knocking for our heavenly Father to intervene in our situation according to His wisdom, knowledge, light, glory, power and might. In the book of Mathew 7: 7-12 this

process was revealed.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and

though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the

Prophets.”

Prayer shows off the power of God

you will find; knock and the door will be

Elisha then picked up Elijah’s cloak that had

opened to you. For everyone who asks

fallen from him and went back and stood on

receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the

the bank of the Jordan. He took the cloak

one who knocks, the door will be opened.

that had fallen from Elijah and struck the

“Which of you, if your son asks for bread,

water with it. “Where now is the Lord, the

will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a

God of Elijah?” he asked. When he struck

fish, will give him a snake? If you, then,

the water, it divided to the right and to the

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 45

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

46 | Her Wholeness left, and he crossed over. The company of the

has remained pure to this day, according to the

prophets from Jericho, who were watching, said,

word Elisha had spoken.” (2 king 2:19-22)

“The spirit of Elijah is resting on Elisha.” And they went to meet him and bowed to the ground before

We can see the continuous effect of prayer in the

him. (2 King 2: 13 -15)

life of the praying prophet Elisha. He was recognised as the one with the divine answer to the

This scripture reveals to us how Elisha called upon

barren ground and the polluted water.

the Lord God of Elijah and the impact of his cry.

By virtue of prayer the waters got healed and the

The waters were parted and he went over. The

yoke of death and barrenness got broken.

effects of the prayer revealed the presence of the

As you are reading this article I command the yoke

spirit of the Lord upon him and changed the

of contamination, death, bareness, mockery, insults

attitude of other prophets toward him. They came

be broken in every area of your life in Jesus name. I

to him and bowed to the ground before him.

pray that through prayer God will show off His

The outcomes of his prayer revealed the presence

power through you.

of God in him, with him for him. He didn't have to explain, justify himself and convince his colleagues

What is Business?

that God was with Him.

The dictionary definition of business considers

The obvious demonstrated power of God was all-

various angles. Firstly, business is the activity of

sufficient to raise him up and distinguished him

buying and selling goods and services. Secondly an

among other prophets.

establishment that buys and sells goods and

I declare and decree that as you believe in the

services, thirdly a situation or activity that you are

manifested power of God who took place that day,

giving your opinion about and lastly the things

every area of your life held captive, down or back

that you do or the matters that relate to only to

is broken open, release you and you are led to the

you.

place of recognition, distinction that the Lord has ordained for you before the foundation of the

These definitions are equally relevant, however

world in Jesus name.

from the kingdom of God perspective, it can be suggested that business is the establishment of the

Prayer creates attraction

things pertaining to the Kingdom of God according

“The people of the city said to Elisha, “Look, our

to His will in the field in which the Lord has put us

lord, this town is well situated, as you can see, but

to manifest His power and glory.

the water is bad and the land is unproductive.”

“Bring me a new bowl,” he said, “and put salt in

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the

it.” So they brought it to him.

Garden of Eden to work it and take care of

Then he went out to the spring and threw the salt

it.” (Gen 2: 15)

into it, saying, “This is what the Lord says: ‘I have healed this water. Never again will it cause death

Jesus knew the business of the kingdom.

or make the land unproductive.’ ” And the water

“And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me?

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 47 Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s You are never alone when you choose to do business?” 50 But they did not understand the

business with power through prayer.

statement which He spoke to them.” (Lk 2: 49)

The proven demonstration was poured out since the day of Pentecost.

At twelve years old the Lord had to remind His earthly parents of His divine purpose and the

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all

urgency of making known the things pertaining to

together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the

the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in Heaven.

blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and

filled the whole house where they were sitting.

Today we are the witnesses to the Lord Jesus from

They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that

the business field where we are operating from to

separated and came to rest on each of them. All of

the end of the earth. It could be an activity we are

them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to

buying and selling, representing and contributing

speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

our opinions for payment or free and it maybe all

(Acts 2:1-4)

that matter s to our entire life.

God has given us the strategy to win the Business must go together with prayer.

arena of business.

Jesus promised his disciple that when they pray to

The bible is full of instructions for asking, seeking

the father in His name all can be accomplished.

and knocking for doors to be opened. It is up to us to choose the do’s for true successful business life.

“In that day you will no longer ask me anything.

Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you

I declare and decree that concerning us, we will

whatever you ask in my name.’ (John 16:23)

choose the good prayer guide from start to finish in your field and experience of business for abundant

Jesus went to promise us a helper from the Father,

life in Jesus name.

in the person of the Holy Spirit, who has become

After being put in the arena that has been revealed

our helper who helps us to pray.

by God as our divine assignment, it is now our responsibility to seek and find the way of the Lord

“They all joined together constantly in prayer, along through His word in every step of our journey for a with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and good fight of faith. with his brothers.” (Acts 1:14)

Therefore it is now time for us to make sure that we are running our business in line with the

The promise is still for today.

righteousness of the Kingdom of God, to make sure

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit

that all our needs are met by the King of Kings and

comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in

Lord of Lords – Jesus Christ.

Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the

He is recommending us to ask our Father in Heaven

ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

to establish the ways of His Kingdom and His will in our businesses as it is in heaven.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

48 | Her Wholeness Personal testimony and encouragement.

We have overcome all our battles by the virtue of

Through prayers of faith in the word of God, my

humbling ourselves in prayer and faith in the

husband and I have been blessed with three

hearing of the voice of the Holy Ghost.

colleges and an immigration firm.

I can conclude by saying that indeed the effectual

I am a living testimony and beneficiary of the

fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

power and glory of God available through prayers in the field that the Lord has placed us.

Let us keep on praying without ceasing. In this we

Knowing that all the acquisitions of our

will experience the supernatural fruitfulness,

organisations have been conceived of the Holy

wisdom, knowledge, multiplication and

Ghost and by grace, have always given us the

prosperity of God at work in our businesses for

blessed assurance of victory at the end of the

the realisation and advancement of the Kingdom

battle.

of God in Jesus name.

We have through our business seen people come

May the Lord bless you and impart you with a

to salvation; many challenging cases have been

fresh baptism of prayer and fire in the Holy Ghost

won through the immigration firm.

in Jesus name.

We acquired a college worth a million pounds for only two pounds.

Pastor Marie- Rose Omokhodion is a trainer, intercessor, and motivator. She is the founder of Excell International Ministry based on the book of Matthew 25:31-40.

She is the founder of " The Ladies of Impact�, an Intercessory Ministry for restoration and revival.

She is the co-owner and director of Spinnaker College, Majestic College and Trident College.

She is also the owner and director of the immigration firm Bison Management Ltd.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 49

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

New album Dr Yana Johnson

Available at www.yanacosmetics.com

*** OUT NOW ***

*** OUT NOW *** *** OUT NOW ***

50 | Her Wholeness

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 51

Who Do Men Say That

I AM?

By Apostle Dr Yana Johnson

I

give my first-hand account of my experience

by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto

as a Marketplace Apostle, Mother,

them, Whom do men say that I am?

Entrepreneur, Psalmist and Business Ambassador. It all sounds very grand and

The revelation is that not only was Jesus curious

many would argue that titles are not needed at all,

about public opinion while walking through

in fact it’s all God’s Kingdom and we are all called

various villages about his business. Something

under the great commission.

must have happened or caught his attention to trigger this response but also that Jesus was

However, I present to you a revelation I received

interested to know what MEN said about, thought

upon reading;

about or wondered about him.

Mark 8:27 (KJV) And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

52 | Her Wholeness The role of a nurturer, raising up God’s Why would Jesus be asking such a question, the

child but also a ministry leader in her own right,

Savior, the one who came to save us asking for an

teaching her Bible and moral principles, Kingdom

opinion and open to receive one?

and how to master authority over herself and that to which she is called in Genesis 1:28.

Many times we see that Jesus was always talking about His father and The Kingdom, in reference to

We all have been called to the great commission

who he was and what his purpose was on earth.

on earth and our first priority is to complete that

He was after all from Heaven, above man.

which we set out to do, this is success. Raising

However it was on his mind that he was creating

children is like raising up leaders because we

an influence, leaving behind a perception and he

become the spiritual parents and as we have

was checking that they matched up to Kingdom

developed so do they in our reflection and our

expectations. Hence he began to teach of the walk

reflection in God. This gives us the ability to enter

ahead of suffering, rejection and hardship,

careers, businesses and duplicate the Blueprint

knowing that this was to come as his portion.

which is the mandate in making disciples. Our disciples should have the tools to raise others by

Why is this, an important observation?

the time we have finished making a full impact on them.

Even though there was a manifestation of his gifts and his authority, his love and the passion he had

As I developed in my first Church ministry in the

about the Kingdom, Jesus wanted to prepare the

worship arena, I gave everything I had and

people. His time had not yet come and those who

developed excellence. My voice was not that great

had a revelation of him were asked not to tell

even though in the world, I had written and sold,

anyone, because he needed more time.

40,000 copies of my album. After I was saved and my life transformed in Jesus, I received the gifts of

Did they get it?

the Holy Spirit and my vocal ability completely increased.

Not so much as who he was by title, but had they caught it in their spirit that if he is here on earth,

From there the prophetic gifting also increased.

our very own gifts and purpose will too be

Having a relationship with the Father was like

established in the same way as he did. He came to

having a personal guide which established me in

show us and thus the Bible was written under

the Business arena where I Pioneered Yana

inspiration and on account of the reason he came

Cosmetics Makeup and began developing not only

and the impact he left for us to follow.

my team but the marketplace, others around me through influence and quite quickly became a role

Therefore in our relationship with God, we can do all things. Through my relationship with God, my first ministry is being a Mother to my daughter.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

model.

Her Wholeness | 53 Pretty quickly after starting business, I began

It is this assurance that I believe we must all

to win business awards for Entrepreneur,

pursue our purpose and calling. We must seek

Innovation, Business etc, it was a great time as

out the area we have been given spiritual gifts

I had very little knowledge when I started, but

in and know who we are. We should be

that close relationship with God taught me

recognized and even offer our help to others

how to grow, expand, take risks and install

knowing what God has placed inside of us,

excellence and integrity. This teaching lined

because He has done just that, given us an

up with Ministry leadership and sustainability

individual gift within that is for us to use to

of the Kingdom.

help others.

In 2009, I was awarded an MBE for which I

Recently I have heard, seen and witnessed

was humbled by God. At many of my

what low self esteem has done to people, how

business engagements, not only would I talk

it causes us not to reach our full potential, how

about my business but I always managed to

we can miss our calling because we allow

testify of my journey into business and share

others to tell us who we are instead of allowing

some of the breakthrough challenges I had

God to affirm us in what we are.

along the way. I was never intimidated to share my passion and the Love of Christ.

Returning to the UK in 2015; affirmed and ordained as an Apostle was very challenging

In 2011, I was awarded an Honorary PHd,

because many have not yet embraced that

from Roehampton University Business School

these are the last days, God is pouring out on

and at the award ceremony I opened up my

all flesh. The dispensation of the Apostolic is

acceptance speech with a beautiful praise song,

here, the 3rd Reformation is established and

filling the cathedral with worship. I also

among us are Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists,

remember doing this at an event with the Chief

Teachers all equipped in the spirit and being

of City of London Police and he came back to

separated by God. There gifts are evident, yet

me and said he had goose pimples on his arm.

overlooked, many are shut down, shut out and

I believe that we should always lift up the

ignored when the Church greatly needs their

name of Jesus wherever life takes us because

prophets to speak, their teachers to teach and

he in turn lifts us up. Our obedience to do

reveal the mysteries of God and the Apostles to

what he says, when he says increases our

establish not only new Churches outside of the

prophetic giftings and calls us to touch the

building but the true order as God has

lives of many people.

established it.

Apostle Dr Yana Johnson MBE is a Marketplace Apostle, Entrepreneur, Coach www.dryanajohnson.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

54 | Her Wholeness

The Journey...

By Harriet Khataba

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Wholeness | 55

T

he beauty of travelling is getting to experience different cultures,

After the death of Ruth's husband and the fact

landscapes, temperatures,

that there was famine Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-

environment people etc... getting

law decided to go back to her homeland she had

yourself ready for the place you intend to visit be

lost her husband and sons the whole experience

it the currency, maps, clothes and many more

made her bitter.

The anticipation, counting the months, years, days; then the travelling day making sure travel

Ruth decided to follow Naomi: now Ruth was still

documents are in place vaccines are taken,

young she didn't have to and she didn't owe

ensuring we you have tour guides verified and

anything to Naomi after all she didn’t have any

anything else to help you in the journey ensuring all areas are covered We seem to understand this in the natural but when it comes to the journey in our assignments and purpose many don't know their destination, are not prepared

What determines us making it, is our

attitudes.

or just don't make an effort to get ready. I say this because I meet many people everyday

children but the remarkable thing is that Ruth

who are not sure what they were born to do or

decided to go with her

where to start from or worse have the wrong attitude or are ready to give up.

Naomi was bitter. Take a moment to think of any time spent with a bitter person, it is terribly

Some have begun their journey but realised their

draining yet Ruth travelled and lived with her,

tour guides can't guide them to where they need

served her regardless of how bad things got this

to go, they either don't have the right ‘clothes’ for

caused me to look at me, of all the times and

the place or maps and strategy let alone the

people I probably let go because I thought I

‘currency’ to use.

couldn't cope with their lamentations or miseryas we like to say that person is "miserable"

Whilst all of these are essential I want to focus on ‘the attitude’ of the traveller......because you can

But this taught me an important lesson not every

have the above requirements but lack the right

day will be a holiday in our lives and journeys,

attitude to survive the journey... As I was

but what determines us making it, is our

studying the book of Ruth, I begun to really

attitudes. It must have been hard for Ruth but she

admire Ruth and saw she had the best attitude I

made a decision, "your God shall be my God your

have ever seen.

people shall be my people" she never looked back

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

56 | Her Wholeness she made the decision and soldiered on she didn't

and wisdom the right job and position without

reminisce on her yesterdays she focused on now;

servitude and tenacity bear in mind Boaz, Ruth’s

she was so humble she got wisdom from a bitter

husband didn't ask Naomi of Ruth’s character he

person. Now I don't know about you but

asked those who knew, those who had mixed,

sometimes we tend to judge people based on their

talked and come into contact with Ruth!

"current" situation and forget they have talents and gifts just like anyone else! She respected

I don’t know what stage you are at in your

Naomi, she was humble, she served, she listened,

journey but we are all somewhere, what's

she had great tenacity and she was blessed

important is your attitude, think about your

beyond her wildest dreams.... She had moved

journey, your life somethings we can't change; for

because of despair and loss now she had the

instance the season, but we can change our

wealthiest most sort after man as a husband that’s

attitude towards it and our perception....

the kind of blessing we want. With the right attitude! The complete package without humility

Harriet Khataba is a profound example of how women of all up bringing’s and creed may find success in all they choose to achieve. Miss Harriet Khataba is currently the owner and chief operator of the “Her Story Matters” (HSM) and www.HerStoryMatters.com. Her Story Matters is an organization, founded by Harriet, to spotlight and support women from across the globe in an effort to provide awareness and support for women to tell their stories and to emerge as a stronger and more successful individual. This effort would not be possible without the experiences provided to her throughout her life and career.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Lest We Forget

By Petula Hippolyte Let the love of my heart, continue to

Filled with the curse of jealousy, envy

mirror yours

and hate.

While we paint out our pain and our

On reflection what your words say

abundant flaws,

affects US

For we are joined by philos Love, do you

A sister’s keeper is what we should be,

see it in my eyes

That stands in the gap when you have

Though you may not trust the process,

lost your way

Let suspicion halt and embrace the wise.

A true God warrior is she.

There is no need to compare, by your education and accolades galore As individual as our thumb prints They say ‘less is more ’...

I look at you and you reflect meWe reflect the potential and all the things we could be With a gentle word and a listening ear

Reflecting our God given purpose

Filled with hope, that removes all fear.

Sister we have to rise above, what the world dictates

Written by Petula Hippolyte © March

For what God despises is a haughty

2015

look,

Petula Hippolyte Petula_hippolyte@hotmail.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

58 | Her Wholeness

Personal Development Training in

AFRICA

By Noreen Makosewe

Personal Development Training in Africa Such a Diverse Contrast to the Western World.

Why?

fighting neo-colonialism. A generation hungry

A

can no longer be denied their dream. From the

frica is standing on the cusp of much-awaited change, its metamorphosis driven by civil society. Whether domiciled

within the continent or spread out in diaspora, Africans are developing a new-found love for their heritage, motherland and its blossoming, yet somewhat troubled, evolution. Many African leaders are yet to grasp what it means to truly love their people and the lands for which they are custodians, as it becomes increasingly apparent that, tired of waiting for decades to be led into its post-colonial promised land, civil society is pushing old

boundaries, challenging old ideologies and

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

for opportunities, brimming with ideas and willing to sacrifice for a more dignified future horn of Africa down to the southern tip of the continent, the last couple of years have seen an over-50% increase in protests and uprisings as the new generation bands together in person

and through technology to tell their leaders, “We deserve better!”

Reportedly, 7 out of 10 of the world’s fastest growing economies are in Africa. It’s therefore unsurprising that another international scramble for a piece of the African pie is underway, with the most economically agile taking the lion’s share. What they are taking and how they are taking it is sometimes

questionable, raising the not often asked

Her Wholeness | 59

question, if these markets are emerging from

the core of its society. It’s impossible to ignore

obscurity to recognition, who exactly are they

the countless reports of corruption in the

emerging in favour of? And more importantly,

governance, embezzlement of public funds by

are Africa’s people adequately prepared to

leaders more interested in personal gain than

handle and compete with another influx of

the development of their people, bypassing of

foreigners in search of its resources?

rule of law by those who want results at low or

There is an assumption that emerging markets

no cost, and ‘looting’ of much-needed revenue

are creating opportunities for Africans to

by many international organisations.

become more educated and economically empowered. Though true for the elite and the

“According to a new Oxfam report released in

few with the means to invest in themselves, the

early June 2015, ‘Money talks: Africa at the

reality for the majority is starkly different. In

G7’, G7 based companies and investors cheated

many cases, where good opportunities do arise,

Africa out of an estimated US$6 billion in 2010

expatriates or ‘returnees’ (Africans returning

through just one form of tax dodging. Winnie

home from diaspora) tend to be preferred over

Byanyima, Oxfam International’s Executive

local talent, creating an even bigger divide than

Director said: “Africa is haemorrhaging billions

the one that already exists between the haves

of dollars because multinational companies,

and the have-nots.

many with headquarters in G7 countries, are

Corruption is Africa’s cancer, eating away at

cheating Africa out of vital tax revenues. If this

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

60 | Her Wholeness tax revenue were invested in education and

South Africa, revealed Africa’s aware of its

healthcare, societies and economies would

most urgent need; education systems that

further flourish across the

foster critical thinking, teach the history and

continent.” (Source: www.oxfam.org)

diversity of Africa, explore untapped industries, develop leaders from a very early

G7 (The Group of 7) consists of the finance

age, teach practical life skills and produce a

ministers and central bank governors of seven

workforce that can sustain the growth of the

major advanced economies - Canada, France,

world’s second largest continent.

Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. These economies have

There is also a palpable hunger for high-quality

invested heavily in their own infrastructure

personal and professional development of

and development of their people. Ironically, the

home-grown talent. Unfortunately, this hunger

Oxfam report implies that whereas these

is not sated by currently available education

economies are benefiting from their investment

systems, some deemed irreparably broken and

in Africa, Africa is losing revenue that could be

in need of an overhaul. Many were established

invested in developing its people and

in the European colonial era and the need to

infrastructure. African leaders are not without

review their content and relevance to the new

blame. Failure to uphold and enforce

Africa is grossly underestimated and

regulations that protect resources and civil

overlooked. If Africans are to rise up and take

society has left Africa vulnerable to

their rightful position as the custodians of their

exploitation both from within and without.

continent, accelerated investment in enhancing human capital is required.

International media portrayal of Africa is largely biased towards its failings instead of its

It would be naïve to focus only on training and

potential, often creating an unfair disadvantage

developing young Africans. As well as the rush

for a continent that is coming into its own.

to plunder its resources, the continent is stuck

Discontent with Africa’s half-told or miss-told

in the ‘battle of mind-sets’; old minds afraid of

story, digital platforms such as Think-Africa-

change, new minds desperate for it, and foreign

Thank-Africa by UK-based Sonjo Media and

countries desperate to sustain their own

pan-African media group, Face2Face Africa are

fledgling economies using African resources.

educating the masses on the history, current affairs and future potential of a beautiful and

For Africa to survive, these minds need to

culturally rich continent.

somehow work in synergy. And that can be aided greatly by a willingness to investment

On the up side, change is imminent. The 2015

unreservedly in training and enforcing

World Economic Forum held in Johannesburg,

regulations on how social and commercial

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 61 organisations behave in Africa.

projecting Africa as a ‘begging’ continent, majority of Africans are dignified people with

There are privately-owned training schools

a desire to be the best, do their best and make a

and consultancies operating on the continent,

difference with their knowledge and skills.

which focus on personal and professional

With the right leadership, training, resource

development. Inspired by their experiences in

distribution, mentoring and support,

diaspora, Africans of all ages are returning

developing African countries can and will

home with a desire to use their knowledge,

change their narrative by investing in their

skills and resources to make a difference.

people and giving them a fighting chance to

Institutions such as the African Leadership

compete on the global platform.

+

Academy (South Africa), Ashesi University (Ghana), Agro Mindset Group (Ghana) and the African Leadership Institute (South Africa) are all examples of African-led initiatives to supplement existing education systems.

However, more government-assisted

initiatives would have wider reach and also cater to the need-for-speed.

Contrary to mainstream media images

Noreen’s upcoming book, EFFORTLESS SUCCESS UNLEASHED: GET MORE DONE IN LESS TIME AND ENJOY IT, shares with professionals and entrepreneurs, practical strategies to maximize productivity and performance in life, at work or in business.

Noreen Makosewe is a Certified & Accredited Coach, Business Development Strategist, International Speaker and Founder of The Radical Success Company (formerly Radical Leap), which focuses on Enhancing Human Capital through coaching, consulting and training. Noreen says that, “Through years of research and experience, we understand that no individual, organisation, community or country can sustain its growth and development without investing in the skills, knowledge and performance of its people. We also understand that without excellent leadership to drive vision, people often perform below their peak or do not perform at all. As well as working in Europe, our work in Africa seeks to addresses gaps in skill, productivity and performance, entrepreneurship and leadership that impact sustainable growth and development. We work with entrepreneurs, professional organisations, educational institutions, leaders and social change drivers, helping them enhance their human capital for a competitive edge in the global marketplace.” .

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

62 | Her Wholeness

Know Your

VALU£ SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

By Dawniel Patterson Winningham

Her Wholeness | 63

Empower YOUR Finances Know your value, CHARGE your worth!

T

here is not a day that goes by that I don’t encounter many women who are not only beautiful, intelligent, smart and gifted, but many of them are also financially insecure.

Their lack of finances does NOT stem from them not working hard; Quite the opposite. MOST, if not ALL of the women I know work very hard. In fact many of

them work from sun up to sun down. They work for their jobs, they work for their communities, and they work for their friends and family.

With all of this work, then WHY are women financially insecure? Why are they struggling from paycheck to paycheck? Why are they broke?

The answer is as simple as it is complex. Women have been TAUGHT to help others, but have not LEARNED to know their value and charge their worth.

We have been taught to sow seeds, but we have NOT been taught to reap. Therefore women are busy. Busy building the dreams of corporations, building the dreams of our families, building the dreams of our friends, while our own dreams lay by the way side.

If you are reading this article this may be you, or another woman you know. So please pass it on. And pass along these tips to help YOU know your value and

charge your worth.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

64 | Her Wholeness

1.

KNOW that GOD gave you gifts and talents

to help themselves. Others who CAN afford

for a reason. As proven in the parable of the

my services WILL receive a bill.

talents in the bible that reason is to GO OUT and to make an increase with those talents.

6.

KNOW that poverty among women and

If you are CONSTANTLY being called upon

children is a REAL issue. Don’t wait until

to use your gifts then it is up to YOU to find

circumstances become DIRE to learn how to

a way to CHARGE for those gifts and

EARN with your own two hands.

talents.

7.

2.

KNOW that YOUR GIFTS and TALENTS

As much as you THINK you are helping

have worth. The more your gifts solve a

others without charging, the truth is you are

problem in the world, the more they are

hurting yourself and that individual. You

worth.

are hurting yourself by missing the opportunity to earn income. You are

There are SO many women in poverty who DO

hurting the other individual by not allowing

NOT have to be and women in poverty means

them an opportunity to bless you.

children in poverty. GOD did not create us to live in poverty and it STARTS with knowing our

3.

Don’t wait on someone’s good nature to

worth and charging for it! I am STILL helping

bless you AFTER the fact. People quickly

another child of GOD even if they get a bill for it!

forget who got them where they are today.

My GIFT from GOD is worthy of ME being

Don’t rely on THEIR sense of knowing

compensated.

YOUR WORTH. State your fees up front.

4.

Remember that people have MONEY for what is important for them. People may TELL you they can’t afford your fees. If they REALLY need your help they will find a way to incorporate your fees into their project budget.

5.

Separate COMMUNITY and BUSINESS. There is a distinct difference. There is no limit to the amount of service I provide in the community to those who are unwilling

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

There is NO limit to the help I provide to those in the community. Shoes, Clothes, Blankets, Toys, Food and much more for thousands of people

each year. However, GOD gave me a gift and talents and per the parable of the talents in the bible I have a right and expectation to CHARGE those in BUSINESS that can pay. I count them as two different things. My philanthropy is very different from my business. As WOMEN we have to STOP being so quick to BLESS those around us when we can't even bless ourselves! That is NOT selfish, that is SURVIVAL! IF someone has the

Her Wholeness | 65

means to do it WITHOUT sacrificing their

information or follow me on Instagram, Pinterest

household great for them; if someone is

or Twitter @wealthspeaker or on Facebook at

HELPING and NOT living their OWN DREAMS

www.facebook.com/dawnielwinningham

as a result that is a problem!

If you need help in learning how to build your dreams or charge your worth please go to www.iamdawnielwinningham.com for more

Dawniel Patterson Winningham is a former Vice President for JPMorgan Chase and is currently using her years in the banking industry to help women the world over turn their dreams into wealth. She is founder of two national movements, Wealthy Sisters Network (www.wealthysistersnetwork.org) and National Day of Sisterhood. She has been featured in over 50 magazines internationally and travels the world speaking. She is the author of 7 books internationally with 2 launching this fall. She is a single mother of 3 soon to be college students who lives in Katy, TX a Houston suburb.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

66 | Wholeness

In Silence & Dignity

THE CRY OF THE SINGLE PARENT By Kate Okoli

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 67

E

very average woman wants to love and be loved. She longs for that day when she walks down the aisle to say “I do” to the man she loves.

After the honeymoon, comes the reality of the marriage relationship, filled with hopes, dreams and aspirations which sometimes comes to fruition if carefully and prayerfully planned, while at other times, life happens-The intriguing aspect about this is the unknown journey ahead.

If you ask the vast majority of single parents raising children all on their own if they desired to be single from the start, the answer you will get will perhaps change a lot of negative perceptions people have of single parents. If it’s possible to discern the heart of every single parent we encounter on the street, maybe just maybe, we will not have a single story about them.

We will be more understanding, more accepting and more sympathetic and supportive seeing that they do the work ordinarily meant for two people.

Because this single mum hoped, fasted and prayed for a successful relationship, they become overwhelmed with emotions and feelings of rejection once this journey of love story takes her through unplanned routes of unhappiness. That love which she was promised rather than bring her hope, succour and contentment, suddenly becomes a source of tears, fear, anxiety and despair , perhaps due to sudden death, infidelity, betrayal, rape, teenage pregnancy . The first reaction to this will be tears and disappointment. Each tear shed, makes her stronger and bolder.

And so the healing process of having to start all over again, even though sometimes scary and lonely, begins in earnest and a sense of determination and hope, ignited by the fact that there are other budding innocent parties (Children) involved in the whole shenanigans of this unfortunate relationship breakdown brought about by natural causes, or uncontrollable turn of events aka ‘circumstances beyond our control’ As this new journey of life begins, there are chains of mixed emotions, sometimes of resentment, guilt, loneliness, regrets and feeling of rejection. In the centre of this mixed emotions is a determination to give the

children the best. Everything is given to her children including hard work, to meet with their needs; this single mum takes up extra jobs to be able to make ends meet.

The journey can sometimes be dark, cold and lonely, as she is judged by society for divorcing her husband despite the dire circumstances she found herself in at the time she made the decision. She becomes the centre of gossip in her community, men actually warn their wives to steer clear of her as they see her as a bad influence-another single story.

If she has been made single as a result of the sudden death of her spouse, she is also faced with challenges of having to sort out his estate, being able to nurture and raise her children all alone and also seeing her children through secondary and tertiary education which is uppermost in her heart.

The single parent suffers lonely nights with no one stopping to ask her how she is or even offering any form of support. Even when she turns to church for support, she realises that there are very few activities or support networks offering help to people in her status.

She struggles to sleep after each day’s hard work, while the song “it is well with my soul …….” Plays through her mind, as she hums this song, finding hope in Psalm 46:10 “be still and know that I am God” As the months roll into years, she strives for that maternal perfection, striving hard to get her children’s approval, most times you hear her say defensively ,”my children are my world …………..”

She does not have a work life balance, no time to take care of both her physical, emotional and mental well being. Motherhood becomes not only challenging, but exhaustively unresolved.

She has no life outside parenting. Oftentimes, she allows unforgiveness, guilt and regret to overwhelm her. The only way to resolve this or the best hope for successful offspring is attachment parenting.

Because the demand for her job slams against the needs of her children, she tries to make up by allowing her children to have whatever they want at all times.

She continues to hold on to the word of God as Psalm 4:1 becomes her watchword …..”Hear me when I call o

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

68 | Her Wholeness God of my righteousness, Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress, Have mercy upon me and hear my prayer…..

Despite mastering several bible portions for reassurance, one thing more disturbing about this Christian single mum is that she is oblivious of the real needs of her children. Her faith as a believer has been relegated to an emotional hype about a blessing, to the extent that she now unconsciously over looks the suffering of her children, believing that all her family problems will be solved once she works longer hours and makes more money.

She cries out to God knowing that if extended family and society cannot hear or understand her, God the omnipotent who sees the heart can hear and meet her at the point of her need.

God does not judge or have a single story about single mums. He is there to listen, to provide and to restore the years that the cankerworm, the caterpillar and the palmerworm has stolen.

Psalm 34:6 “I cried out to the Lord in my suffering, and he heard me He set me free from all my Fears……”

God’s message to Moses when he manifested His presence to him was “I have heard their cry and am coming down to deliver my people from the hands of their oppressors”

The unique ministry every single parent has in raising children has nothing to do with how they see themselves. It is an unequalled great ministry.

In my book ‘In Silence and Dignity –The Single Mother Story,’ a book dedicated to single mothers all over the world. I catch phrased the challenges of single mums in one word- “Fifty Million stories, unsung……………

As a single mother, God has taken you through or shall I say, He has allowed you go through HELL to refine you. God has allowed various life experiences and situations to come into your life in order to remove all pride as well as insecurities out of your life that would stop you from being available.

If as a single parent you are going through situations right now, know that God has brought someone like you out of the same affliction in the past.

Your assignment as a parent has a final destination and therefore you must remember God is saying to you that he has empowered you for the simple purpose of getting someone else.

Your tears and cries have reached God to the point that he has altered the course of your life, so do not become discouraged or confused to the point of quitting. God is aware of your strength, weaknesses, fears and doubts and that’s why he called you to this great ministry of parenthood………………………………………………… ……

TO BE CONTINUED.

Mrs Kate Okoli is a Qualified Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales. She runs her private law practice in Barking Essex, London, United Kingdom She is also a published Author of a book titled-In silence and dignity –the single mother story. She is a TV talk show host, a wife and a mother to three wonderfully made children Find new book on www.amazon.com. www.trafford.com.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Wholeness | 69

www.wewmagazine.com SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

.

70 | Wholeness

Mastering

LOVE

How to mend a Broken Heart.

By Fatima Denga

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 71

L

ove is undoubtedly one of the most

expressions of Love which I will outline below.

powerful emotions and feelings

Agape: is unconditional, sacrificial love. It is

that exists on earth.

selfless love, a love that is passionately committed to the well-being of another person.

You may be asking yourself why Love or

In a nutshell Gods Love for mankind or what

so what?

human beings share during national tragedies,

Well it does seem that from time past and up to

plagues or natural disasters and compels them

today, Love is something we have always been

to give love.

fascinated by and have pursued, whether

Philia: the bond of love between friends, co-

passively or actively. Love is very much part of

workers etc. Aristotle described philia as

cultures, races, nations, some species and of

mutual love. It is a necessary means to be

course individual peoples themselves. Love

happy as one chooses to love their friends. It

dominates powerful entertainment industries

can be quite un-natural as it is formed through

from Hollywood, Bollywood and Nollywood

bonding together. Philia love can also end.

to name but a few. Everyone sure loves a good

Storge: This is the love usually expressed by

Romcom and I am certain we can all name our

parents to their children, within families and

favourite love story. The music industry is also

exceptional friends. This love causes us to feel

dominated by ideas of Love, be it “falling in or

secure

out of love” or the notion of the perfect love.

experience this kind of Love. This love is

The hippie movement was founded on “free

committed to its cause.

love” with success of bands like the Beatles in

Eros: This is romantic love or intimate love

that era. We are all fascinated by celebrities’

which can be euphoric in nature. It focuses on

love lives and consequently the most popular

the self. Eros love is what is sold to US by the

ones are the ones who find love with other

media and entertainment industry. It can be

celebrities.

sexual only in nature without the storge, philia

To look at Love and why I sense this is an

and agape. It is the love that can get us into

important topic to discuss, we need to try and

trouble and I might add that it is “immature

define it. I will also explore briefly what Love is

love”.

and

comfortable.

Couples

can

from the academic point of view even though I am no professor. In the latter part of this article

The other types of Love such as Pragma

I will go more into heartbreak, but hey let’s

(enduring love), Phalautia (self-respect) and

start with the good first.

Ludus “butterfly feeling when in love” are not

The Oxford dictionary describes Love as: a

discussed here. You can look into them for

strong feeling of affection.

your own self-interest.

1. Usually towards another person

(Seven Kinds of Love #southbankoflove

Or 2. towards something

Origins Of Love

LOVE is experienced and expressed in various

You may or may not be a follower of God .You

forms. The Greek language was very rich in

either believe in Jesus, disbelieve in him or are

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

72 | Her Wholeness intrigued by the man Jesus, but please hang on

gain or reward for you at the end?

and see God’s original idea of Love. Judge for

Are you able to give love without judging,

yourselves the world’s view of love and God’s

especially where the person has wronged you

view of love, I am passionate about this topic as

or perhaps love a marginalised person?

some of my greatest errors and mistakes in life

Are you not challenged with giving love at

are mainly related to love and how I

times, as you may not feel it?

experienced

I

Are you able to love others especially where

discovered the mind-sets about love that I had

you grew up without being told you are loved

which held me captive to a false notion of love.

or never being good enough?

In the bible, a writer named John( 3:16) wrote

Do you experience love fully to the extend you

about God’s plan for mankind and our

desire it or you have had to compromise

keyword is in that verse. It says,

yourself each time just so that you get love? Is

“For GOD so LOVED the world that he gave

it real love?

his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth

God loved all of us as we are his creation. God

in him should not perish, but have everlasting

as a father wanted to reunite IN LOVE with his

life.”

children and therefore sacrificed his BELOVED

“God is love” 1 John 4:8 and he demonstrated

son for our greater good. God Loved us and

his love for us through the sacrificial death of

we can only be truly fulfilled in the love walk

his own Son Jesus Christ for us to be reconciled

(with all peoples), if we know and understand

back to him and experience his love again. I

HIS love. God’s love is greater as it LOVES

am sure you have all heard of “separation

without measure and loved us as we are. GODs

anxiety” where children separated from their

love never discriminates.

parents struggle to fit in and accept being

To Love we have to be giving of ourselves

loved. It is the same thing, you cannot fully

which

walk in total Love and embrace love from

Vulnerability can bring weakness, so we need

others without experiencing all of God’s love

to know why we are choosing to love and

who is our Father in you. Every other love will

understand where our own love feelings are, so

always be a counterfeit of the GODs Love.

we can shield ourselves from the risks of being

God, through time tried to see if man could

vulnerable when giving love. To love involves

save themselves but each time our human

our minds first but

it.

Through

revelation,

causes

us

to

become

vulnerable.

weaknesses prevented this. Be honest with yourself as you answer,

God calls us to love him first. As humans we

Are you always able to love sacrificially,

have replaced the Love of God with material

unconditionally to every living person known

things, things that do not last. When these

to you, that you are willing to sacrifice yourself

things are no longer there or no longer satisfy

for them?

us, what do we do? Most people feel unfulfilled

Are you able to love selfishly when there is no

as that which they loved, either let them down,

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 73

did not go as planned or sadly did not love them back. Most people’s reactions are either: Sadness, anger, hurt, heartbreak, loneliness and for some revenge seeking

depending on

Know what love is when we see it and encounter

it,

to

avoid

the

pitfalls

and

vulnerabilities of getting our love abused or

the love lost.

taken for granted. Love is not manipulative

The world has taught us to always be

and one can smell “love abuse “ from afar once

searching for love in things, objects, jobs, other

they know that love is selfless and self-giving

people, relationships, status etc. So we have all

and run for it where love is used with

learned that when we need love, we need to fill

blackmail, dominance and manipulation.

a void and find something to make us happy.

Since when did happiness equate with Love?

Know where to find love that is satisfying,

The world’s solution is usually things that

Agape love. To all ladies, you do not need to

corrupt our hearts and minds even more. Some

sleep with him to show him that you love him.

use sex as a tool to look for love and sadly it

That should tell you there is no love there.

usually does not work and leaves an even

Friends who truly love will be there even when

bigger void as ‘Eros love’ builds a false

you are at your lowest ebb.

connection that never lasts unless it is tested and matures to philia, agape and storge love.

God has shown me in my own life and my

The real issue is that we have all placed our

own mistakes in love that to experience true

trust and hope for LOVE in worldly perishable

love; we have to know HIM first and through

things and in other people. Unfortunately it

knowing HIM we will know:

has resulted in being the major cause of most

How to love ourselves first, whether we are

of our hearts being broken and cause of our

loved by others or not. You cannot truly

dissatisfaction. Unfulfilled love, whether not

appreciate love and experience it if you do not

met in childhood or through general love

love yourself. It is very difficult to convince

abuse is now one of the major reasons for our

someone that they are loved if they think they

sadness,

are unlovable.

Heartbreak itself produces emotions, mostly

loneliness

and

unhappiness.

bad as in general heartbreak is a negative How to love others. You can only truly love

feeling. Strongholds that hinder progressing in

others when you experience the value and

our love walk are often formed from this.

worth of love in you and in others. As I said it

Typically heartbreak produces the types of

makes us vulnerable, so to love others one has

emotions mentioned above such as:

to be able to overcome the vulnerabilities of

Rejection, resentment , hurt, anger, sadness,

being rejected but continue to walk in love

feeling

towards others.

revenge seeking, apathy, depression and lack

numb,

bitterness,

unforgiveness,

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

74 | Her Wholeness

of hope or lack of belief in finding love again,

He promises us victory over our emotions. He

heartache, anxiety….

promises to heal our past hurts and to help us

Walking in love towards others is a big

with future hurts so we conquer all negative

challenge and only the Love of God in us can

feelings and emotions. We will not be in

help us do this. Most people say ‘but I love my

bondage or enslaved to them again. He gives

partner and don’t need God’, but if I ask them

us a hope. God is saying do not struggle on

if they can love their enemy they state it is

your own. He knew you from creation and he

impossible or difficult. In fact they give reasons

has great plans for you. Come to him and he

why they cannot love their enemy or those that

will gladly restore you to Love and be loved

hurt them. Well, that’s the difference as Jesus

again. You will have joy and peace and never

even loved those that put him to death he died

struggle for love by being sorrowful. To believe

for all men so we can experience the love of

again

God and give it to those that also hurt us. The

heartbreak and not fear it. You will learn to

Love of God in Jesus Christ his son gave to the

love again, love yourself and others and never

world without receiving. Think on that very

be afraid of the heartbreak. God’s love

profound act of love!

overcomes rejection and it is bigger than any

In Him is total fulfilment.

rejection you have ever faced. Give yourself to

In him is the fullness of joy.

God and embrace his total love.

for

that

In him is the peace that surpasses all

which

you

caused

you

+

understanding.

Fatima Denga Is an ex-mentee of what is now the Leadership for purpose programme. She graduated 3 years ago. She works as a registered Intensive Care Nurse/Practice Nurse but has interests in fashion styling and image consultancy. Fatima will be joining Jackie’s team in the Leadership for purpose programme. She has a blog where she shares what God puts on her heart to help people deal with negative emotions, negative feelings, loss of identity and instead be restored to JOY in the Lord.

To check out her blog go to: cumiarise.blogspot.com To contact Fatima you can e-mail her at cumiarise@gmail.com

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Demystifying

AUTISM

A Kingdom Solution to a Misunderstood Disability

By Dr. Leah Akinlonu

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 77 What makes people with Autism so

Arlo's communication. His interactions are also in

'different'?

keeping with the preferences of a person with Autism. And he has distinct patterns in

Arlo's story.

his routines and interests.

Arlo is a young man who is aged 19. He lives

These 3 features of Autism are referred to as the

with his parents. Arlo has limited verbal

triad of Autism: impairments in communication,

communication. He mostly uses signs and

interactions and interests.

symbols (Makaton). Arlo loves to sit in his

favourite chair and write lines of numbers. He

Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that

gets anxious around groups of people, or with

affects how we communicate with, and relate to

new faces. In school he had just one friend. Three

others. It affects how we make sense of the world

weeks ago, Arlo completed his final year at his

around us. People who have autism tend to

special needs secondary school. It had taken Arlo

like routine, order, and sameness. They may have

years to settle in to his secondary school when he

special interests. There is often a dislike of

first started, but when he did, it became the

excessive sensory stimuli –bright light, and loud

highlight of his week. Arlo enjoyed getting on the

sounds or high volume music.

school bus at 8.15 every morning, and liked his

There is what seems like a social disconnection,

teacher. For the past three weeks since Arlo left

where people with Autism may appear either to

secondary school, he has been very unsettled. At

be uninterested in, or unable to understand, social

8.15 every morning, Arlo bangs his

interactions. The world can be a confusing mass

head repeatedly on the table. And he has been

of faces and events. This struggle to make sense of

taking his shirt off. Arlo's parents have also

the world can make people with autism anxious.

noticed that he has less of an appetite for food.

Things that people take for granted such as body

They are quite worried about him.

language and metaphor can be confusing for a person with Autism. And there may be a high

Arlo has Autism. "But he sounds nothing like

pain threshold – a higher than average capacity to

someone else I know who has Autism" you might

withstand physical pain.

be thinking. Or maybe there are some similarities....

Now, note this: Autism is not a mental illness. Autism is a disorder but it is not an illness.

What is Autism really?

Let's have a look at the concept of Autism, the

Let's go back to Arlo and look at how the triad of

features, how they apply to Arlo, and to other

impairment applies to him. Let's look at his

people who have this diagnosis, and how you can

communication, interactions and interests.

offer or receive practical support using my

PQRST Autism Support System.

Arlo has limited verbal communication. He has a preference for routines and sameness: sitting in

There are features that stand out in

his favourite chair, writing lines of numbers,

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

78 | Her Wholeness getting the bus at the same time every

use structured assessment tools.

day. Disruption of his routine caused Arlo a lot of distress and he began to head-bang. And



How common is Autism? 1 in 100 people

Arlo prefers to keep his interactions with others to

are affected. In the UK there are 700,000

a minimum, so that he is not overwhelmed.

people with Autism.

Autism as a Spectrum.

So, have they got Autism?

Autism is a spectrum condition. Whilst there are 3

"Well I know someone who is very routine-

core areas of difficulty, every individual with

bound, could they have autism?" Or "There's

autism is affected in different ways. Some have

another person I know who does not like to

been to university and hold down jobs. Some

communicate much or who keeps to themselves.

need a life time of specialist support.

Could they have Autism?"

Asperger Syndrome is a form of autism in people with average or above average

It is important not to equate the presence of

intelligence. People with Asperger

features from the triad to a diagnosis of Autism.

Syndrome may have fewer problems with speech,

Let a professional conduct a full assessment and

but may still have difficulty processing and

come to a conclusion.

understanding language.

People with autism often do not look disabled or

Dr. Leah's PQRST Autism Support System.

impaired, and people with autism may find that

"How can I support someone who has Autism?"

they are misunderstood.

Here's my PQRST system that you can apply to support someone who has been diagnosed with

A few quick facts.

Autism: These factors help you offer support in a



What is the cause of Autism? Genetic and

way that is less likely to cause disruption and

environmental factors may account for

distress.

changes in brain development. It is not caused by a person's upbringing or

P: PREDICTABILITY & PURPOSE.

their social circumstances.

Predictability: keep things predictable and concrete. Explain things using the 'here and now',



Is there a cure for Autism? No. But there are

rather than referring to abstract time scales.

interventions that enable learning and development.

Purpose: give simple explanations of the purpose of events and actions.



How do you diagnose Autism? Specialist

Professionals take a specific history (asking

Q: QUESTIONS & QUIET.

questions about development) and

Questions: Don't be caught out when things don't

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Wholeness | 79 go according to plan! Anticipate & prepare by

TALENT: Support to develop their talents,

asking yourself questions to help you come up

strengths and areas of interests.

with a plan B in advance. Be responsive –also seek support promptly in times of crisis.

What to do next?

If you or someone you know is affected, you may

Quiet: Avoid sensory overload –noisy

wish to:

environments and bright lights. Avoid social

overload –from crowds, and sometimes groups.



Consider 1 to 1 work.

Get more information on The National Autistic Society website: www.autism.org.uk

R: RELIABILITY & ROUTINE. Reliability: people who provide support need to



be dependable and prompt with time-keeping.

Routine: work with the individual to build a personal routine of activity that suits their

Take Dr. Leah Akinlonu's Course 'Understand Autism' on www.udemy.com



Speak to your GP about referral for assessment and diagnosis.

needs. A visual timetable may be helpful.

Hope.

S: STRUCTURE & SAFEGUARDING.

Remember that you do not have to be

Structure: develop structured care that works

overwhelmed navigating through a confusing

around the individual's needs. Be proactive -seek

world. Everyone can understand Autism.

support as early as possible -health, education,

Everyone can take steps to maximise the

social care, employment, accommodation.

differences and strengths of a person with Autism.

Safeguarding: protect their welfare and be alert

And as a kingdom person, take advantage of the

to guard against exploitation –physically,

professional help and resources that are on offer,

sexually, emotionally, and financially.

but beyond that, trust in The Lord our God for wisdom. He is able to bring fullness of joy to

T: TRANSITIONS & TALENT.

every life.

TRANSITIONS: Be prepared for major

Every person with Autism can be loved

changes such as end of school year, going on

and supported to be their best.

holiday, moving house, change of job, etc. Make clear and thoughtful plans.

As I always say "For a safe today, and a sound tomorrow."

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

80 | Her Wholeness

Dr. Leah Akinlonu Onah is a Christian and a Consultant Psychiatrist based in the UK. She believes that every person needs a 'Safe today and a sound tomorrow.' Her expertise is in supporting you to turn mental health risk into recovery. She provides you with simple and practical courses & resources, to reduce risk and enhance recovery in mental health.

Dr. Leah takes complex concepts, and illustrates them in a way that resonates with you. And she loves to tell stories...and change stories! She is the Founder of 'Riscovery' which means to 'turn risk into recovery.' Riscovery resources include online video training on Udemy.com, and her FREE signature Course 'Understand Mental Illness.'

Dr. Leah is married to Toks Akinlonu and they have 2 lovely children.

Make your Discovery, get Riscovery! at www.riscovery.org; as Dr. Leah says "For a Safe Today and a Sound Tomorrow."

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Wholeness | 81

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

82 | Her Wholeness

WHEN THE

Clock Strikes 12

By Belinda Barnaby

I

s it not funny how life has a way of giving us a pause, just like Cinderalla had while she danced with Prince charming?

Of course, the clock had to strike 12 midnight. Even though the music had not stopped, it had stopped for her and she was back in her maid clothes.

That was just how my life had been rudely interrupted in June 2012. One moment I had discovered a lump underneath my right breast, I was at the doctor’s the week after, referred to hospital immediately, mammogram, biopsies, ultrasounds, until I

found myself waiting alone in the consulting room for that dreaded chat with the oncologist. Such chats were meant for the person next door or people I didn’t know. Or was it? Of course it was going to be benign. The news came crushing not long after. I had been diagnosed with stage 3 Triple Negative breast cancer, which was not a common strain so had to be treated with all aggression. Neither did it respond to oral medication. Alas! My clock had struck 12 midnight.

I went from being brave to being anxious sometimes especially after one of my

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Empowering the Younger Woman | 83

colleagues at work had talked about a fund raising event for The Christy hospital, where I was to start my cancer treatment.

That day my faith wavered.

The devil started to tell me about how serious my predicament was. In fact my stomach was in knots.

Before I went to bed that night I told God how afraid I was. I had a dream that night which was surprising because I hardly dream and if I do, I forget before I wake up. I have always attributed this to maybe too much eating. In the dream I

saw a child peering with look of mischief from behind her mother while holding on to her cloth. It is just like when kids play hide and seek and hide behind their mum or dad thinking no one can see them. As soon as I woke up I knew I was that child. As tears of joy ran down my fat cheeks, the Holy Spirit reminded me of several scriptures which I blurted out. ‘You are my hiding place’ (psalm 32:7), ‘My shelter in the storm’ (psalm 55:8), ‘My refuge and my fortress. My God in whom I

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84 | Her Wholeness

trust’ (psalm 91:2). He had met me at the point of my need and had spoken to me in the language I understood. I knew that as long as I held onto Him I will be safe. This revelation cured me of all my fear and gave me so much peace. I was ready for the journey ahead.

The next few weeks came with a flurry of activity. My sister who was more than my right hand woman was on a quest to make sure I was at my best. Not only did she laminate healing scriptures for me to place all around my home, but also made sure I would be decked out in the most beautiful scarves in preparation for my hair loss during chemotherapy. Her theory was if you were going to lose your hair, then do it in style.

Indeed my God had provided me with all things that pertained to life and godliness, even the material things. Before I was given my treatment plan the lump was measured and it was 5cmx3.5cm. I was to have 6 cycles of chemotherapy with the aim of shrinking the tumour a bit before surgery, (lumpectomy) and radiotherapy. The lump was to be measured midway into chemotherapy and at the end of chemotherapy. I had made up my mind to use God’s treatment plan which I discovered when

Olive .

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

I read a book Amma had ordered for me, written by Doddie Osteen and entitled ‘Healed from cancer’. This treatment plan was based on Proverbs 4: 20-22 which say‘ My son, pay attention to what I say: turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight…….for they are LIFE to those who find them and HEALTH to one’s whole body’. I had just caught on to this plan. I confessed God’s word like I was taking medication but unlike orthodox medicine there is no overdose with God’s word. In fact, the more the better.

Hebrews 4: 12 (The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.’) also put a different spin on it. It taught me that God’s word literally was able to penetrate any part of the body and that there were no barriers. I begun to thank God that his word was penetrating into every cancer cell in my body. If the power that raised Jesus from the dead also lived in me, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to my mortal body because of his Spirit who lives in me.(Romans 8:11) I realised that God was + prepared for every situation we would ever

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

86 | Her Spiritual Etiquette

The Glory

OF HIS PRESENCE

By Sola Dawkins

I

wonder how we truly perceive the

We must pause and ask ourselves the

presence of God.

question, what is this presence that we refer to

With our lives being so busy, our minds being consumed with demands,

as ‘God’?

His presence is affirmatively and infinitely

expectations, goals and targets. Our lives

expressed as Omnipotent, Omnipresent &

rarely feel our own as we have a myriad of

Omniscient.

demands placed upon us, by society and not to mention the ones we place on ourselves.

God is Omnipresent, but do we really feel How easy, is it then, for us to live short of the fullness of God.

Him, do we really have a sense and understanding of His presence. To speak of

How easy is it for us to never fully experience

and to hear of God’s presence is one thing, but

the tangible presence of God.

to personally experience God’s presence, is to be our desire. God is omnipresent, His glory filling the whole universe. God is everywhere

But with life becoming increasingly demanding, evolving at a rate we often struggle to keep up with, we may find our personal time with God becoming less

and is present to every person. But the personal knowledge of that fact and the experience of that presence is what finally really counts.

intimate and as life strives to pull us away, there’s never a time more pressing then now, to acknowledge His presence.

How therefore, is it possible for us not to perceive this immutable presence. The most

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88 | Her Spiritual Etiquette

literate and eloquent cannot fathom or express with mere words this ‘Presence’ and whilst we define it as Powerful, it can never be contained to just ‘Powerful’. This ‘Presence’ is able to

outer court.

To simplify this we are to move through the dimensions of God, by applying that of Matthew 7:7-8.

mould itself into any and every situation and circumstance whenever and however it should occur.

The dimension of asking, must propel you to a dimension of seeking God, which will propel

you to a dimension of knocking, as you enter into the dimension of knocking, doors open We are familiar with the term “The Presence of God”, but what is His Presence, Is it a feeling, a sensation, an emotion, an expression, or is it

revealing to you the Glory off his presence.

You can only enter in, once you have knocked and the door has been opened.

something that is unique, indefinable?

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you The presence of God is indescribable, but yet is tailored to humankind, who in essence are ‘One’, yet exist as millions of vessels.

will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

"For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.…(Matthew 7:7-8)

Are there dimensions to the presence of God? Is there a difference to being in His presence and

The glory adds weight to the presence of God,

experiencing the Glory of his presence? Yes

it reveals to you the dimensions of God. It is a

there is, it’s about experiencing Him in another

glorious place to dwell.

dimension.

The Glory of the presence of God is revealed

There is a divine dimension associated with His

throughout scripture, we draw reference to the

presence.

Old Testament, whereby the children of Israel

This dimension takes the limits off. It stirs up faith, strength, provides wisdom, gives boldness etc.

had a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of a cloud by day.

“And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go

We must seek to access the limitless power of

by day and night:” Exodus 13:21

God, this can only be done by seeking an inner court experience with God, where all frustrations, reasoning, questions, persuasions

The glory in scripture is often referred to as

and all fleshly desires and needs being left in the

descending upon, entering in, as an experience

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Her Spiritual Etiquette | 89

to be encountered. The book of Ezekiel provides a detailed account of God’s glory.

The God of glory Himself now lives in us. When

The Glory of God is tangible but cannot be

His glory descends, it is not only around us, but

manipulated or introduced by a specific order.

the Holy Spirit lives in us, permeating every fibre of our being. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed

The seraphim’s in Isaiah 6:3 cry out: Holy, holy,

holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.

into his likeness with ever increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit (2.Corinthians 3:18).

As we walk through our purpose, we must seek to have His Glorious presence.

We need to grasp as Kingdom empowered women, that God has imparted and deposited

His glory brings the intensity, power and

His Spirit in us and therefore we are to prepare

tangibility of His presence beyond the every day

our vessels to manifest the Glory of God.

experience.

The Glory brings a reality of God’s presence to the human individual.

The glory is “the revelation of the presence of God. It is the manifestation of His presence.

May the glory of His presence manifest through you, let it be drawn from deep within, with

Moses had an intimate relationship with God,

power and might.

Even though he tasted of God’s glory, he still

The glory is the very essence of his presence the

asked God to show him His glory (Exodus 33:18).

manifestation and revelation of His love for us,

That is quite remarkable, considering all Moses

his power and His promises.

had seen, more than any other living being before. Yet God was pleased by his request and granted it.

He is Glory.

Sola Dawkins is a Mentor, Motivational & Inspirational Speaker & Co-Pastor. A dynamic visionary and woman of faith, Her vision is to see women of every calibre find their purpose and live it, a vision that is already transforming lives. Sola like many others was trudging along in life, often searching but not sure what for. She had the desire to achieve, but could only see the possible failures not the inevitable successes. Sola began a journey of finding the meaning to life and seeking what is life’s Purpose.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

.

9090 | Her Wholeness | Wholeness

THE GIFT

Of

Righteousness

By Lynda Ojiakor

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

F

or if by one man's offence death

We cannot earn God’s righteousness by our

reigned by one; much more they

works or by keeping the law. It is only received

which receive abundance of grace

by faith in Christ Jesus.

and of the gift of righteousness shall

reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Romans 5:17

Some

of

my

benefits

of

having

God’s

righteousness includes:A gift does cost something but not to the one who receives it. If you gave me a gift and asked

l have a new identity. The old nature of sin is

me to pay for it, it wouldn’t be a gift, but it did

dead and I have the nature of Christ. 2

cost you something.

Corinthians 5:17 I am not a sinner saved by grace; but a saint

Righteousness means having right standing

living by grace. I am the righteousness of God

before God. God made righteousness available

in Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:21

to you and me as a gift. We cannot earn it, or

I now reign in life by faith in the living Jesus.

work for it, but we can receive it by faith in the

Romans 5:17

finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross.

I

But why is that? The scripture says; “ For all

righteousness and protected from oppression

have sinned, and come short of the glory of

and terror. Isaiah 54:14

am

henceforth

established

in

God’s

God, Romans 3:23, this means we cannot be restored to a right relationship with God

What a blessing to know that our righteousness

through our self-efforts due to the impact of the

is a gift which is received by faith. Have you

original sin of disobedience by Adam & Eve.

received this free gift? If not you can simply

Isaiah 64:6 says; “All our righteousness are as

receive it by asking and accepting Jesus into

filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our

your heart by faith.

iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away”.

Such act of faith releases the abundant life and ends a life of self-efforts to earn God’s

Hence, the gift of righteousness is only made

righteousness.

available through the death of Jesus Christ.

Hallelujah!

Lynda Ojiakor is the Founder and Chief of Operations at Women of Faith Today, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom. She is a Life Coach, Author and Speaker. Lynda’s passion is to help every woman find fulfillment by embracing her God-given purpose; and live life to the full.

She has over the last couple of years developed some life transforming programs like Faith For Purpose Program, The Real You, Dare To Dream and LVC. These are some of the tools Lynda is using to impact the lives of her audience and clients.

Lynda is married to Benny and they have three blessed children.

For upcoming events, pls visit : http://www.womenoffaithtoday.com/#/about-us/4548107845 or follow Women of Faith Today on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Women-of-FaithToday/194133200645644 SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

92 | Her Spiritual Etiquette

D

epression ? Featured in a

heart marked with persistently sad mood,

Christian magazine? Yes!

loss of enjoyment of usual pleasures and

Contrary to popular views in

company of life; and undue fatigue. A friend

the pulpit and pews,

of mine who has been there, fought it and

depression is not a baby boomer or

has a trophy of victory describes depression

millennial generation predicament. It existed

as “life losing its taste”. The three core

back in bible days and remains present both

features need to be present for at least two

among the sheep and shepherd today. What

weeks before a diagnosis is made.

other clinical condition so perfectly typifies Job’s and David’s account of their morbid

Many times, there are associated features

grief and sorrow when they described “my

such as anxiety attacks, sleep disruption,

skin cleaves to my bones” and being “laid

poor or excessive appetite, weight loss, poor

low in the dust”? It’s a bitter pill for our

concentration, loss of drive and libido.

minds to swallow that Christians can and

Feelings of guilty, worthless, helpless and

sometimes do battle depression.

hopeless commonly culminate in death wishes or even suicidal thoughts. In its most

Much of the challenge the condition presents

severe form, depression is associated with

is empowered by failure to recognize it and

experiences not rooted in reality such as

lack of understanding on how to overcome

hearing voices without sounds

its occult presence. The resulting cocktail of

(hallucinations) and false, tenaciously held

ignorance spiked with myths is the perfect

beliefs (delusions).

recipe for stigma. The first victory is that of

Depression is not an attention seeking

recognition.

behavior or self-inflicted condition nor a sign of being weak in faith. It is unfeeling and

What then is Depression?

naive to be judgmental by pointing the

Depression is a clinical condition presenting

accusing finger of sinfulness as its ultimate

as a morbid, intense state of heaviness of

cause. We know that this condition is closely

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94 | Her Spiritual Etiquette associated with chemical imbalances and

My answer to the often-asked question as to

physical changes in the brain. It is not a

whether a spiritual or medical approach

normal state of sadness, hence the common

should be adopted to combat mental

flippant advice for sufferers to “pull

disorders has always been- both! Obtaining

yourself together or get over it brother /

spiritual support through prayers does not

sister” is more damaging than helpful.

preclude help from GPs and Mental Health

Hope for the Depressed

Specialists. A holistic approach is best.

My key take home message is that the depressed can actively promote their own

Confide About Depression.

recovery. For starters, there is sufficient,

Depression can be a very lonely experience

convincing research evidence that faith

for those going through that “valley of the

confers relative protection against

shadow of death”. Getting a non-

depression, and also promotes quicker

judgmental, sensitive and supportive

recovery when it sets in.

confidant to unburden your mind to can bring great relief. We know from research

Here are the 5 Kingdom Nuggets for

that lack of confiding relationships is a risk

Dealing with Depression.

factor for suffering depression in the first

instance.

Confront Depression and Seek Help Acknowledgement of depression as a

Maintaining confidentiality is an area we all

condition to be tackled is not a sign of

can do a lot more to improve as a

weakness or lack of faith. Depression festers

community of Christians in our bid to

when denied, as then there is no legitimate

promote disclosure from those standing in

reason to seek help, whilst the condition

faith against depression.

worsens. It is not contrary to faith in God to take antidepressants or obtain

Control Your Environment in Depression

psychological therapy just as it is not anti-

Leisure activities and socializing becomes a

faith to seek marital counselling for a

chore when depressed. The victory however

fledging marriage.

lies in breaking the mold and going against

In fact, it may be reassuring to learn that

the grain of the natural. Exercise has plenty

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- which

of evidence stacked in favor of its releasing

in UK is acclaimed as the most versatile

happy brain chemicals. We know that with

psychological therapy; heavily relies on the

persistence, going through the motions

scriptural principle of guarding one’s heart

eventually results in spontaneity. So it is

( Proverbs 4:23) and transformation by

best to be out and about rather than isolate

renewing one’s mind or thoughts ( Romans

oneself.

12:1-2), though it is not recognized as such.

Music remains a powerful weapon to SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Spiritual Etiquette | 95 combat depression. Fill the atmosphere of your home and car with worship, praise and faith filled words. If David’s harp playing lifted King Saul’s mood in yester years when the ministry of the Holy Spirit was not present, how much more now?

Condition Your Mind against Depression “I expect you to recover” is my favorite phrase to my depressed patients. It is a conscious attempt to paint a picture of hope. Words create and control atmospheres. Science is now catching up with what scriptures have taught all the while. The temptation is to speak unbelief, doubt, and gloom and doom when depressed. Negative words however always create negative thoughts. Negative thoughts

manifesting has inner commentaries (referred to by CBT Therapists as Negative Automatic Thoughts) are known to be pivotal in creating and maintaining the depressed mood and state.

The great news is, with practice you can choose your thoughts.

Cast Away Unhealthy Emotions Related to Depression Unresolved difficult emotions such as anger,

unforgiveness, and bitterness can only further weigh the spirit that is already heavy.

In Footprints of Giants Dr Ajayi examines greatness from a rounded three dimensional view point, citing scriptural, secular and scientific sources. He leans heavily on his psychiatric background in proposing practical methods of developing progreatness habits. The habits (footprints) of greatness are identified as desire, decision, diligence, development and dissemination.

In a very practical and motivational approach, each chapter is concluded with a summary, reflection and an action point that highlights how to translate the read text into life changing habits. If you are looking for how to identify and form habits that mark winners out from losers, Footprints of Giants is a must read.

In his personal and unique style of motivationalinspirational writing, Dr Ajayi gives insight on how to ensure you not only live a great life, but also leave a great legacy by helping others around you do the same. He challenges readers to think beyond their generation and consciously leave a footprint on subsequent generations by raising great men after their own kind. He concludes the book by introducing readers to the greatest giant who ever lived- The Giant of all Giants.

Sometimes the strength to let go comes when one counts the cost of holding on to these toxic emotions.

Dr T. Ayodele is a General Adult Psychiatrist and a member of The Royal college of Psychiatrists. He is on the Pastoral Team of his church with a brief for the Youth. He is the author of Footprints of Giants, and hosts a weekly radio show on total health and well- being. Ayodele is passionate about helping people find and express their full destiny in Christ, hence his mentoring endeavor for aspiring medics via his Mentor into Medicine youth scheme and workshops.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

96 | Empowering the Younger Woman

BE

D

ear young ladies,

YOU!

By Lauren Lamont

What does identity mean? It means "the fact of being who or what a person or thing is"

I am here to write to you to

according to the Google dictionary. In hindsight,

encourage, empower, uplift,

knowing who you are is the bottom line and

strengthen, inform, enlighten

foundation of having an identity; most

and show you to have your own identity. It's a

importantly, knowing who you are in the Lord.

simple word that carries a lot of problems, especially in this modern world where people

I will share a quick testimony with you, I used

want to duplicate others. This may sound very

to struggle with knowing who I was. It got to

simple and cliche, but it is a big problem that

the point were I was severely depressed because

many young women face on a daily basis,

I couldn't see the wood past the trees; my life

including myself. Why is having and knowing

was spiralling down, I felt worthless, useless,

who you are such a struggle amongst us? Why

helpless and hopeless because nothing was

is that we at times compare ourselves to other

happening in my life! I saw no future, my

women who we see or cross paths with, why is

relationship with God was stale, I was

it that we tend to compete with each other, to

unemployed and I wasn't studying. On top of

boost our egos and not focus on what God has

that, all of my peers and others around me were

given to us personally, uniquely and

doing so very well for themselves which

intrinsically which is our identity.

discouraged me and caused jealousy and envy

to rise up inside me. This then caused suicidal thoughts to creep in and the enemy was

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Spiritual Etiquette | 97

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98 | Her Spiritual Etiquette

controlling my mind, telling me to end my life

made" according to Psalm 139:19 and you are

because I'm no good and I'm useless. But God

undoubtedly "blessed and highly favoured" also

saw my plight and His divine intervention

according to Luke 1:28. These scriptures

counteracted my carrying out of suicide. He told

provided are there for your encouragement on a

me that He has so much plans for my life so why

daily basis and especially when you no longer

would I want to throw it all away because of

feel like yourself, or you have doubts based on

temporary wilderness? Since then, my trust in

who you are, you're unsure of your calling or

the Lord has grown and I have discovered my

you simply trying to find your way in life. Just

identity in Him.

know that God has His hand on you and He will always ensure that there is a way to your success.

So from sharing a piece of testimony, I want to encourage you beautiful young women that God

Be blessed young women.

has a plan for your life according to Jeremiah 29:11, which reads "For I know the thoughts that

Lauren.

I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of

peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." You are also "fearfully and wonderfully

My name is Lauren Lamont, I am a single woman; I am 26 years old, a graduate, a writer, a pastor's daughter, a radio host, a speaker and a Child of the king.

It has taken me a long while to discover, understand and know what my ministry is. I have been in the wilderness for so long, totally unsure of what God wants me to do specifically, all that I knew was He wanted me to lead the young people, particularly the young women, but the methodical approach to my ministry I had no idea. I was clueless of the platform I would be on to minister to young people and suddenly God graced me with writing articles to empower young women. This is the beginning of a great thing!

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Wholeness | 99

+

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

MY TESTIMONY

Finding God

By Helen Jennifer Lansley

K NGDOM MINDSET

By Minister Victor Nwaorgu

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Spiritual Etiquette | 101

“Seek first the kingdom of God and its righteousness and all other things shall be added unto you”-Matt 6:33.

T

he word character has been

any man drawback, my soul shall have no

defined as the summation of the

pleasure in him”.

principles we have on the inside by which we live our lives. The

mental and moral attributes whether good or bad that defines us as individuals.

When a person possesses this quality, he

The bible specifically talks about three things we must do to develop a mind that agrees with God.(Colossians 3:2)”set your affection on things above, not on things on earth”. we have to set our minds continuously on things

refuses to be moved away from these godly

of eternal value.(Romans 12:2) ”And be not

principles no matter what anyone says or does.

conformed to this world but be ye transformed

This kind of strong godly character is needed

by the renewing of your mind that ye might

for a good relationship with the Lord and it is

prove that which is good and acceptable and

precious in the sight of God. We must

perfect will of God”

acknowledge that God is the owner of the kingdom and lavished his love for it; therefore we should truly love God our Father and have the interest of the Kingdom at heart. There

should be this longing in our hearts to pursue and wait on the Lord. It is only those who hunger and thirst for the Kingdom that shall be filled.

In order to develop a Kingdom mindset,

The bible gave a concise account of Daniel(Dan 1:8) “But Daniel proposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king’s food nor with the wine which he drank so he asked the chief

Eunuch to help him not to defile himself” He made up his mind from the start even before the offer was made. We are living in a world where evil and immorality hold sway, moral standard have been lowered, corrupt practices

it is essential that we study the Word of God

are been esteemed. It takes one with a

and allow the word to influence our lives.

Kingdom mindset to stand their ground and

Believe in what God says and share the same

refuse to be swayed. Our actions and words

faith and confidence in God’s Word (Heb

should always be in line with God’s principle

10:38)“Now the just shall live by faith, but if

which is the truth. Our integrity and standard should not be lowered no matter what.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

The character of Joseph fascinates me, he was

yield ourselves to the leading of the spirit that

Kingdom minded, he remained

these characters can be instilled in us. There are

uncompromising and never yielded to the

many people God used to expand his

ominous entreaty to sin. Even when Portipher’s

Kingdom, some suddenly slowed down, lost

wife confronted him, he said: how can I do this

the fire, there was no more zeal for the

great wickedness against God and my master.

Kingdom. It is the will of God that men be

The bible recorded that he fled. One with a

saved and none to perish without God, if you

Kingdom mindset, always seeks to be in right

have no desire to share the gospel then you do

standing with God and man.

not have the same love God has for mankind.

Faith, obedience, wisdom, love, compassion,

Be Kingdom minded today and you will never

burden for souls, prayer, honesty, humility,

miss your place in destiny.

+

fear of God and integrity are all characters of a Kingdom minded person. It is only when we

Victor Nwaorgu is a motivational speaker and prolific writer, with a mark of distinction. He makes himself relevant everywhere he goes. He is mandated with a mission to positively impact in the lives of many in this generation. He has a global vision geared towards making positive impact in the lives of youths all over the world. Victor has held various leadership positions within and outside the church.

He holds a degree in Business Management from the Prestigious University of Hertfordshire United Kingdom and a first degree in Political science from Madonna University Nigeria. He is currently the Director of Media and Publicity at Golden Pine Konsult Limited and married to Promise Nwaorgu.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

Her Style | 103

The Pioneer's Mentoring Franchise

Programme (PMFP) The Pioneer Mentoring for Purpose Franchise Programme will seek to apply the following activities to assist you to launch a Kingdom focused training programme using the TEACH – TRAIN – EMPOWER principle.

For more information visit

http://www.thementoringacademy.com/ SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

104 | The Kingdom Minded Man

CONFESSIONS of a

STRONG Black Man

By Hasani Pettiford

W

hen presented with the task of

cultural group of women wears ‘strength’ as a

writing this article, I must

badge of honor except Black women. I’m

admit, I spent several hours

annoyed that the expression of a woman’s

contemplating how I would

strength is often clothed in bitterness and

share my thoughts without being misinterpreted

frustration. I’m annoyed that our culture

or viewed negatively. I agonized about how to

glorifies this handcrafted concept of a ‘Strong

perfectly craft a message that would

Black Woman’ as something that should be

overwhelmingly be received by all. Then, upon

celebrated rather than redefined.

deeper reflection, I was reminded of the wisdom

of Bill Cosby…”the key to failure is trying to

I’m annoyed because it lets millions of Black

please everybody.”

men off the hook. Why step up, as men, and be strong if our women have already sworn a die-

Anytime you stand for something there will

hard allegiance to it? I’m annoyed because it

always be detractors. So, I can’t be worried about

keeps women trapped in a prison that they

who I may offend. Rather, my prayer is that my

desperately want to get out of, though many

words will ignite a flame in both men and

have refused to admit it.

women. So, here goes. My confession…

What sickens me the most is that the ‘Strong Every time I hear the term ‘Strong Black Woman’

Black Women’ phenomenon is a result of a

I cringe. In fact, every time I hear a sistah brag

weakened state of Black men. Our failure as men

about being a ‘Strong Black Woman’ I get

has created a culture of women who have taken

extremely annoyed. I’m annoyed that no other

on the roles we have neglected. In countless

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106 | The Kingdom Minded Man homes across the nation, women have become

durable, while ‘strength’ is defined as the

the primary protector, provider and nurturer.

ability to maintain a moral or intellectual

As a result, a gender power shift has taken

position firmly as the embodiment of protective

place, placing women in the seat of authority.

or supportive power.

Many of our men have abandoned their posts

While a man’s physical strength may not seem

as husband/father in the home forcing women

very necessary in today’s world, our mental

to do it all by themselves. They have been

strength is vital. It is at the core of our

forced to be strong and independent; forced to

masculinity. It is the universal code of

be mother and father; forced to be husband and

manhood. It forms the nucleus of our

wife.

manliness, as it truly makes all the other manly virtues possible. Our strength is the literal

The tragedy is that with all of this strength,

power that has allowed generations of men to

they are never given the opportunity to

protect and provide for their families.

complain, cry, be vulnerable, seek sympathy or appear stressed. They are denied the luxuries

When we as men become strong, our women

of emotional breakdowns and failure. Black

no longer have to be. This is a lesson I learned

women who operate under the banner of

attending a marriage retreat several years ago.

‘Strength’ often find it very difficult to get the

During a session, all the couples were charged

empathy or compassion they seek. Their

with the task of stating something admirable

strength has overshadowed their gentleness,

about their spouse. The activity was designed

femininity, fragility and need to be cared for. In

to be used as an ice-breaker before the main

essence, they’ve exercised their super powers at

teaching session; however, what started out as

the expense of their own happiness.

light-hearted conversation soon became profound.

The amazing thing is that all of this goes away

when a male recognizes his true strength and

In a very honest moment, a newlywed couple

lives out his manhood in the highest degree.

shared their descriptions with the group. While

Dr. King said that ‘a nation or civilization that

the husband’s remarks were sweet, the wife’s

continues to produce soft-minded men

statement was hard-hitting. She said, “What I

purchases its own spiritual death on the

love about my husband is that he has proven

installment plan.

himself to be a real man and I no longer have to be STRONG.”

Our failure as men is that we have placed more importance on our physical strength than on

Here was a woman who spent most of her

our mental strength. The word ‘strong’ is

adult life raising kids, holding down a job,

defined as secure, self-confident, resilient, and

paying bills, and handling all of life’s

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

The Kingdom Minded Man | 107 responsibilities alone. She played the role of

woman. When God designed man in his image

mommy and daddy, protector and provider,

and likeness, clear instructions were given

caregiver, and was forced to wear a host of

which are found in the Word of God.

hats that didn’t naturally fit. But, once she said ‘I Do’ she was willing to relinquish the reigns

I Kings 2:2-13 paraphrased says, “Be strong…

and hand them over to someone else.

and show yourself a man…Keep the charge of the Lord your God.” Likewise, in I

In essence, she was saying I’m tired of playing

Corinthians 16:13 it says, “Be on the alert,

the role of “The Strong Black Women.” I want

stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.

to be taken care of for once. I want to be

Let all that you do be done in love.” The bible

pampered and supported. I want the tears

clearly charges men to BE STRONG. That

wiped from my eyes in my moment of

instruction was never given to women. But, the

weakness. I want to be free to be imperfect. I

reason why women are so strong today is

want to be looked at as feminine and not hard.

because many of our men have failed to be.

I want to embrace my strengths but also acknowledge my vulnerabilities. I want to be

So, my confession is that I hate the term

free to be me and not imprisoned behind bars

‘Strong Black Woman’. It’s such a historically

that define my existence in a one-dimensional

loaded term that partially speaks to our failure

way.”

as men. However, when men take their rightful place our families change, our

Her statement literally knocked me out of my

communities change and the nations of the

seat. She found and married a Real Man which

world change.

allowed her to fulfill her natural role as a

Hasani Pettiford Living out the principles they teach within their own marriage, Hasani and Danielle created Couples Academy, a relationship-based learning institute committed to placing couples on the path of fulfilment.

Hasani has spoken for more than 1,000 audiences throughout the U.S., Latin America and Africa.

He provides keynotes, seminars, marriage conferences, couples retreats, coaching programs, as well as individual and couple's counselling sessions.

Hasani and his wife Danielle Pettiford have been happily married for 12 years and have four beautiful girls.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

108 | The Kingdom Minded Man

THE Kingdom Minded Man

By Tokunbo A. Osunbayo

K

PART II

INGDOM MINDED MAN is a

KINGDOM MINDED MAN is a man who

man who puts God first

relies on God to live.

knowing that living life on your own terms or according to the

world’s rules is a dangerous road to take and makes life quite unpredictable.’

‘But I’ve seen many good men with good qualities and they are not Christians.’

Yes, there are many men out there who are great and doing well for themselves. But there are too many men who crumble at the first sign of stress. No one knows, if this will ever

When we rely on God, He shows us how to live, gets us through the tough times, guides us when we have choices and decisions to make. Leads us on the way we need to go and generally gives us a cause to live for.’

‘Wow, God can do all that’. I’ve never believed in God. But he seems like a pretty cool guy.’

‘He is and He’s consistently looking to help us live life in a much better way than what we try to do, when we live on our own terms.

happen to them or when it will, if it should happen.

‘How can He help me become a KINGDOM MINDED MAN, so I don’t end up like my

But a KINGDOM MINDED MAN never relies

dad?’

on himself. He lives as a man but operates in

the Spirit of God. ‘Operates in the spirit of God,’ Tom questioned, he had no idea what the pastor meant.

‘Young man, Christianity is about beliefs, morals and values. As a Christian we first believe in Christ and we also believe we are to live by ethics, morals and values.

‘First, you need to allow Him into your life.’

‘Yes, I could do that.’ Tom was desperate for a change in his life.

The pastor led Tom to Christ. Over the months he became a mentor to Tom teaching him about God and how to become a KINGDOM MINDED MAN. In summary this is what he taught him…

A KINGDOM MINDED MAN depends on A KINGDOM MINDED MAN is not perfect; he knows he doesn’t have all the answers. He does not claim to be superman. No, a SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

God. He knows God’s got his back.

SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

110 | The Kingdom Minded Man He believes that no challenge is too big for God

people he interacts with knowing it could affect

to help him through.

his life, thoughts and actions.

He asks God for guidance.

The KINGDOM MINDED MAN submits to God, knowing that without Him life can be

He asks God for wisdom.

tough.

He works on himself to be a good man.

He seeks God always.

He treats a woman with respect.

He takes up his role as a KINGDOM MINDED

He knows a woman is not a lesser being.

MAN with vigour.

He knows he will be or is the head of the home.

He carries out his manly duties with a sense of understanding.

He’s ready to learn to be a role model and leader in his home.

He is a man who consistently develops his

If he is married he loves his wife through God’s eyes.

character.

He treats everyone with the respect they

He protects his family

deserve.

He provides for his family

He knows no one is more superior to another.

He strives to be a good father.

A KINGDOM MINDED MAN lives to please

He shows his children the real world and how

His God alone knowing when he pleases God; his life will be more meaningful and he will be

to live in it,

given the tools to be ALL OF A MAN. He stays the cause when things get tough.

He’s watchful of the places he goes and the

Tokunbo Osunbayo is a woman with a passion to see people live their best financial lives. For over 18 years she has been teaching and promoting financial education and financial intelligence.

She is a Financial Skills Trainer, Financial Teacher, Speaker, Author, Writer and Serialpreneur and Christian. Tokunbo also runs webinars on Money, Marriage & Men. Her webinars have been a huge success touching lives all over the world.

Tokunbo is a woman with a passion for God. She has a guerrilla approach to serving Him with a faith she’s learnt to depend upon for years. A friend had tagged her ‘Woman of Faith’. She had truly believed and still believes God of some of the most outlandish things.

Tokunbo has been married for 22 years and has three children.

You can follow her on Facebook: Tokunbo Osunbayo or on her websites www.tokunboosunbayo.com SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN .

www.moneystart.co.uk

www.moneymarriageandmen.com

Have you been searching for the meaning of life?

Have you ever asked yourself, why was I born?

What am I meant to do?

Who am I called to?

What is my purpose?

The best gift for any person who has been searching and hasn’t found an answer is Jesus Christ.

Perhaps you’ve desired to have a relationship with Him, but there has been no one to show you how.

We would love to show you how.

Please say this prayer "Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again.

I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen."

If you have said this prayer and would love to know more please email us at info@wewmagazine.com we would love to help you develop your relationship with God. SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN

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SUMMER 2015 WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN