Megamorphosis Magazine Issue 6 - Empowered

DIRECTOR DALLAS JENKINS + CHIEF DREAMING OFFICER TARO ARAI + NEUROSCIENTIST DR. CAROLINE LEAF

FOR THE RISK-TAKERS

MAGAZINE

TARO ARAI OF MIKUNI RESTAURANTS EMPOWERED TO BELIEVE IN THE IMPOSSIBLE

6

+

SPECIAL EDITION

THE CHOSEN An Interview with Director Dallas Jenkins

New Sections: Voices & Think About It

EMPOWERED TO LOVE THE PICTURE OF RESILIENCE Kiri-Maree Moore

+

LOVE, POWER & SOUNDNESS Teaching from Dr. Caroline Leaf FORGIVENESS HEAVEN'S WEAPON Heather Murdock's Story EMPOWERED TO FACE TOUGH QUESTIONS Introducing Apologist Dena Davidson ALMOST SOBER Musician Ian Loveless Out of the Darkness

EMPOWERED TO BE THE CHURCH AND PIERCE THE DARKNESS

EMPOWERED

#SHARERADICALLOVE #EXPECTMIRACLES

Photo by Jeremy Sykes

www.DokimosProject.com

THE WORLD DOESN’T NEED

MORE RELIGION.

THEY NEED LOVE.

#MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE

#SHARERADICALLOVE

#EXPECTMIRACLES

CONTENTS

ISSUE 6 EMPOWERED CREATED, DESIGNED & EDITED BY A MIGHTY TEAM OF 5 JENENE STAFFORD BRALYNN NEWBY NISSI GUIAO AARON GUZMAN HEATHER MURDOCK AND A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO A NEW ADDITION, APOLOGIST DENA DAVIDSON AND ALL OF MY FAITHFUL WRITERS, AND TO ALL OF YOU, MY BEAUTIFUL FRIENDS.

54

TARO ARAI

6

THE CHOSEN TV SERIES Dallas Jenkins, Director Interviewed by Heather Murdock

12 BRI CAUZ: WAY BACK HOME Up & Comer

46

Nissi Guiao

EMPOWERED TO BE THE CHURCH

14 EMPOWERMENT: SALLY FORCIER Sacramento Movie Producer

18

Nissi Guiao + Jenene Stafford

IAN LOVELESS ALMOST SOBER

18 ALMOST SOBER Musician Ian Loveless Jenene Stafford

46 EMPOWERED TO BE THE CHURCH Jenene Stafford

54 EMPOWERED TO BELIEVE IN THE

IMPOSSIBLE (TARO ARAI)

6

THE CHOSEN TV SERIES DIRECTOR'S INTERVIEW

8O

Nissi Guiao

TEACHING FROM DR. CAROLINE LEAF

58 NO EXCUSES, NO LIMITATIONS, NO BUTS! (Kiri-Maree Moore, The Picture of Resilience) Jenene Stafford

24 FORGIVENESS: HEAVEN'S

72 THE PRESENCE

WEAPON Heather Murdock Story

30 THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS

80 LOVE, POWER & SOUNDNESS

(How do we access it?)

Teaching from Dr. Caroline Leaf

Nissi Guiao

Bralynn Newby

76 EMPOWERED TO LOVE

84 EMPOWERED TO FACE TOUGH QUESTIONS

Joee Gibson Johnson

James Love Story

Apologist Dena Davidson

Nissi Guiao

4

FOUNDER'S LETTER

34

A word from the Founder

DON'T GIVE UP ON HOLLYWOOD

36

Bralynn Newby

22

EMPOWERED IN 2019

THE MANGER Lori Hill

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

DON'T BE AFRAID OF THE HALLWAY Sonia Hassey

40

Tips from DWG

28

44

Interview with Anna & John Mix Nissi Guiao

Jenene Stafford

17

FAMILY MATTERS

LIVING STONES Sandi Padilla

42

PIERCING THE DARKNESS WITH THE LIGHT King-Maker Column Jeff Wittmer

62

THE GOD WHO SEES ME Collaboration of Adena Hodges and Sandi Padilla

LISTENING ABOVE THE NOISE

ISOLATION VS INTIMACY Payton Frances Carty

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EMPOWERED IDENTITY Warrior Cry Column Bralynn Newby

LIVING IN AWE Nissi Guiao

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68

87

WHO IS THE DEVIL? (According to the Bible) Jenene Stafford

Carolyn Oliviera

2

2019

as my witness. The Lord wants

giveness, oneness, and kingdom/s (God’s

us to be reminded that we are

and the devil’s). This issue addresses all of

"Empowered To Be The Church

those topics and much more.

& Pierce The Darkness," and

il”—and “who is he according to the Bi-

The tried and true church will

ble?” We’re talking about this because our

be a light in a dark place just

need to understand his schemes and what

like Jesus and the apostles were.

he’s really up to in the world will become

That's why Jesus is looking

even more crucial in the coming months

for His Bride that's willing to

and years. It’s time to wake up because

go—frankly so am I. Those are

too many Christians either don't believe

the stories you'll continue to

in the devil or they have no clue what the

see here.

Bible actually says about him.

I'm a seer doing my best to

+ FOUNDER'S THOUGHTS

Empowered in 2019 to Be Victorious

I

That leads me to the topic of the “dev-

that's this issue's theme article.

This first issue of the year feels like God

follow Jesus, and in each issue

is setting a very creative stage that will

you're literally seeing the theme

positively inspire, challenge and convict

I hear and see from the Holy

leaders. But also empower us to believe in

Spirit. The lens that we look

the days of Acts because we're positively

through at Megamorphosis

going back to that—that immense passion

Magazine is a representation of

and fire for making disciples and drawing

Christ's Bride and the Father's

humanity into the presence and power

heart. And of course we're hu-

of God.

man so we’ll never do it perfect-

Remember, my beautiful friends, we

ly, but it's what we're authentically going

are “empowered” to love, to forgive, to

after. We're not trying to win a popularity

believe and to go pierce the darkness with

n other Christian maga-

contest, we just want to hear our Father

the love and truth of Jesus Christ.This is a

zines I see a lot of secular

say, "Well done my good and faithful ser-

Special Edition that was actually delayed

perspectives and an attempt

vants . . . and you saw correctly."

because God had another timeline than

to fit in; or I see something

We're going to push the envelope on

mine. There's someone out there, an ad-

so charismatic that most people can’t help

certain church and cultural issues that

dict or a mother who needs to have hope

but label it that way. I’m attempting to do

deeply hurt the heart of God and impact

again for their child suffering with addic-

something that quite frankly I’m not sure

humanity, but only when God says the

tion that needs to read the article, "Almost

can be done. I want to remove the labels

timing is right. Just because something

Sober," a raw story of hope with Musician

altogether and just give a triumphant

is a headline doesn’t mean that it is. We

Ian Loveless. And I warn you now it will

effort to empower leaders to profound-

need to focus more on what God is doing,

make you cry, but it will build such great

ly love. It's time for believers to unite

rather than our politicians and that's what

hope in the end.

around Jesus' commandment to love God,

we're doing our best to do.

love eachother and love the world, just

I'm extremely grateful for James Love

This issue has a new section in it called

(The Power of Forgiveness), Heather Mur-

“Think About It” and that’s what I believe

dock (Forgiveness: Heaven's Weapon) and

God wants us to do. This section will cover

Up & Comer Bri Cauz for their willingness

print version of Megamorphosis, I’ve

some tougher topics in the coming issues.

to share their healing journeys. And a

asked the Lord, “How do we set ourselves

In "Empowered to Love" we interviewed

special thank you to Taro Arai, Sacramen-

apart so people understand who we are?"

a transgender individual to hear what

to restauranteur (our cover story) who

(Kinda crazy considering I'm a branding

he had to say about his experience of the

inspired me with his story on "Believing

professional!) Jesus said to me, "If my

church—are we really loving as we’ve

in the Impossible." Also a new section

Bride will share radical love, they can

been commanded? We’ve also started a

"Voices" with Dallas Jenkins, the Director

expect miracles," thus #ShareRadicalLove

new sub-section for “cultural apologet-

of the TV series, "The Chosen," and Sally

and #ExpectMiracles are our hashtags.

ics” and we’re thrilled to have apologist

Forcier, film producer and casting Direc-

But, there's a third one that the Lord gave

Dena Davidson writing so we can learn to

tor. Lastly, Kiri-Maree Moore is the picture

me that's coming, #LoveNotHate.

address “the tough questions” that exist

of resilience! (No Excuses, No Limitations,

for the Church.

No Buts!) Her story will absolutely compel

like Him. In the last year, since we began the

My job is to hear God and it's a big responsibility. I’m like the miner, but I’m

We’ve got to step up to be cultural influ-

mining for God’s gold, and the gold is His

encers and “the Church” needs to embrace

Bride. This magazine is supernatural, God

a deeper level of understanding of for-

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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you to stop limiting yourself. Get ready to be victorious!

Founder & Creator

2019

VOICES

voices MUSIC + ENTERTAINMENT

The Chosen An Interview With Film Director Dallas Jenkins

by Heather Murdock

Shahar Isaac as Simon desperately fishing at night.

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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2019

At a time in our culture when we are more divided than devoted, the message in The Chosen is a beacon of Light that invites everyone into its warmth with the hope and promise of forgiveness, redemption and restoration.

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MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

Interviewed by Heather Murdock

I

became Facebook friends with Dallas Jenkins

devoted, the message in The Chosen is a beacon of Light that

several years ago and had no idea that one

invites everyone into its warmth with the hope and promise of

day I would be interviewing him for his work

forgiveness, redemption and restoration.

on what I believe will be one of the most important TV series ever made.

I got a chance to interview Dallas about the story behind The

Dallas is the son of Jerry Jenkins, co-author

Chosen. Here's our conversation.

of the award-winning, New York Times bestselling “Left Behind” book series about the "End Times." Dallas has directed more

H: How many movies have you made at this point?

than a dozen feature and short films over his twenty-year ca-

D: Six or seven feature films and six or seven short films.

reer for some of the biggest studios in Hollywood.

The Chosen, which is a first-ever TV series about the life of

H: How much of an influence has your dad been on you?

Jesus, is his latest project, and is special in a couple of ways. One,

D: My storytelling desire and ability came from him, obviously,

the story is told from multiple

but he also is a movie buff

perspectives,

and introduced me to great

especially

the

characters who encountered Jesus. Typically, Jesus films and mini-series are from the point of view of Jesus, and they go from miracle to miracle. Exploring all the people in the gospels allows the show to dig deeper into the stories and allows the audience to encounter Jesus through the eyes of those who were impacted by Him. This makes the show more relatable and helps the viewer connect with the heart of Jesus.

Two, this project is being crowd funded. In fact, to date, it is the highest grossing crowd funded media project of all time, at more than seven mil-

“We're breaking away from people who need us most, trying to be right instead of showing love and kindness.”

lion and counting. There was a

movies.

H: He must be very proud of you.

D: Yes, he is. He’s very proud to see how this project is being received and how we’re telling the Jesus story.

H: When did you know that you wanted to make movies?

D: I knew I wanted to make movies for a living when I watched One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest in high school. I thought, I want to arouse emotion in others the way this film has in me.

I have been a Christian my

time when Dallas would have

entire life, so in the begin-

been surprised if it made eight hundred dollars. What a testi-

ning I was a filmmaker who happened to be a Christian, not a

mony to the power of God in His perfect timing.

Christian film maker.

This started with a special Christmas episode. Within the first moments of The Chosen pilot episode, you are drawn in by

H: When did you know you were called to make movies?

an outcast; a young, crippled shepherd. You watch him in the

D: One day, about twelve years ago, I was mowing my lawn and

marketplace and the synagogue desperately seeking to hear the

I heard God say that He wanted me to make movies that were

readings of the Scriptures, driven by his hunger to learn about

explicitly faith-based, to not be ashamed of doing it as minis-

the prophesied Messiah, only to be shunned and scolded.

try. But also that that doesn't mean they have to be low quality.

Jesus came, full of grace and truth, to proclaim good news to

Sometimes Christian movies aren’t made well. “What If” was

the poor, to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom

the first film I made right after that.

for the captives and a release from darkness for the prisoners

H: The Chosen project came on the heels of a big disappointment. You had just made and released The Res-

(Isaiah 61). This is the Jesus you will meet in The Chosen.

At a time in history when we are more divided than

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2019

Dallas directs children for episode 3 of The Chosen

urrection of Gavin Stone and it didn’t have the Box Office success you anticipated. Tell me more about that.

D: I was confused. I was of course disap-

about it and she pointed out that

pointed. I felt discouraged. It had been

God knew everything about the

a big opportunity. As someone who typi-

situation beforehand. He knew the

D: Gavin Stone had Hollywood producers be-

cally plans things and likes to be in con-

people were hungry. It was actually

hind it who were ready to financially back fu-

trol, I thought where am I going next?

his “fault” they were hungry. And

ture projects. It was a big deal. When it didn’t

when it came time for the miracle,

have success at the Box Office, they all pulled

H: What happened next?

out.

D: God put the story of Jesus feeding the

Yet He had them do for themselves

five thousand with five loaves and two

what they didn’t need Him to do. He

fish on my wife’s heart. We were talking

had them gather the food and dis-

H: How did that makes you feel?

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He could have done it all Himself.

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

tribute it. He did this throughout his ministry, Like Lazarus.

He had them remove the stone from the mouth of the cave and remove his grave clothes. He’s saying do for yourselves what you can do and let Me do the rest. Leave the outcome to Me. The next morning I was up at 4am and I got a Facebook message from someone I barely knew, just a Facebook friend.

It said, “It’s not your job to feed the 5,000, it’s only to bring the loaves and fish.” I asked him why he sent that to me. He said he didn’t know, God told him to. I almost thought someone had a camera on in our room when my wife and I talked. It was really a miracle. But it was clear that as long as I was doing what was right, I needed to only worry about my part and let God worry about the outcome.

It was that philosophy that allowed me to be open to all the crazy decisions that happened with The Chosen, such as doing it through crowd-funding.

H: What’s your view on miracles?

D: I think sometimes we think of miracles as only the big ob-

Shahar Isaac as Simon and Noah James as Andrew

vious ones. Here in America it’s not like in other countries where they are needed to prove

na from Heaven, where he told the Israelites

provided when and how much we needed and no

the existence and power of God.

to not store any up. He hands out Manna daily

more. We have been through so much in the past

Everyone has access to a Bible

so I stay desperate for Him, dependent on Him.

year. I left a job with no safety net, we’ve had more

in America. Here, God provides

Just enough for the day.

health issues in our family than in twenty years

solutions. God shows up in areas He’s already spoken to us about.

That’s what miracles have been

H: Yes, the Bible tells us He’s our Daily Bread, doesn’t it? How has this miracle impacted your faith?

combine. And God has provided for every bit, but never more than the minimum.

And for me, God gives only

D: Truly, to not stress about the outcome. Do

H: What do you sense God is saying to this generation?

enough for the day. Like Man-

what we can and leave the rest to Him. God has

D: There is a tremendous craving for authenticity.

for me.

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2019

How are lives being impacted there?

is doing so much that my prayers are re-

thenticity in our communication and in our relationships. Because of that we are

D: Yes, believers on set are seeing Jesus in

God has given us special favor and wis-

hungry for authenticity. That’s why The

a new way, connecting with Him in new

dom for such a time as this.

Chosen has struck a chord with so many

ways. Half of the cast and crew are unbe-

people. It’s the way the story is being

lievers, and many of them have told sto-

told, we're not telling a clean, safe, white-

ries of how they felt weirdly called to be

H: Dallas, what’s your hope for The Chosen?

washed story. And we are pulling back the

part of this project, and how it’s a differ-

D: From a practical standpoint, to be able

Because of social media, we have lost au-

ally about gratitude. I’m really grateful.

curtain so to speak with

to tell the story from begin-

sharing our journey in

ning to end. We still need fi-

the making of it. Letting

nancing for that. Spiritual-

people in to the process and the story.

H: How should the Church respond to the cry of this generation?

D: The Church can take advantage of this cry for authenticity by stripping away the veneer and not denying the pain and struggles that Jesus came for. The Church needs to be communicating authentically and in real relationships with people.

H: What do you think about where we are as a nation right now? Are you concerned about it?

“There is a tremendous craving for authenticity.

Because of social media, we have lost authenticity in our communication and in our relationships.”

ly, the goal is to make Jesus more known around the world. But that’s up to God.

How can you be a part of this great movement to make Jesus more known?

First, you can pray. The prayers of those in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, are extremely effective in moving God’s plans.

Second, you can share. Go to TheChosen.tv, The Chosen Facebook page, Youtube, and Instagram and share the videos. Third, you can invest. There will be another opportunity to invest that will be posted on TheChosen.tv. Pray, share, invest. Let’s do this, Church!

D: Well yes. We’ve become very tribal. We stick with our people. We are breaking away from people who need us most,

ent set than they’ve ever been on.

and kindness. Jesus came for the sick. We

H: How do you stay God-centered on set?

try too hard to be right, to win. No one is

D: Every day we do prayer and devotion,

hearing each other. We’ve lost the ability

but it’s not a believer-only set, it’s mixed,

to know how to communicate with people

so nothing is forced. Every day people

who are different than us.

visit, Pastors visit and pray with and for

trying to be right instead of showing love

H: Amen! I’m sure God is showing up on the set of The Chosen.

us. Rabbis visit the set. I lead a lot of the prayer and devotions. My daily prayer is

Heather Murdock is the host of Megamorphosis TV, wife, mom, leader, preacher, teacher. She is a maker of disciples and disciple-makers. She also leads in the marketplace as VP of Human Resources for a global tech company.

Lord, help me get out of the way. But God

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MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

+ VOICES + UP & COMER + INTERVIEW BY JENENE STAFFORD WRITTEN BY NISSI GUIAO

Way Back Home

S

ince the fall of man

no greater bondage. The weight of its

own redemptive forgiveness), we will

through Adam and Eve’s

darkness typically goes undetected. Its

always end up taking the wrong turns in

mishap in the garden,

paralyzing nature is hardly ever realized

deception that lead us on the same, long

all of humankind has

by the majority because the hopes of re-

paths that keep going around and around

been set on a person-

venge or the reality of pain and struggle

the tiresome mountain of defeat.

al journey to find the

can instantly cloud our thinking, getting

For years we can be stuck, helpless in

way back home—to God. Along the way

in the way of what’s right. We can’t

the same cycle aching for a way out. And

through various routes and across all

avoid getting hurt (unless we try to live

in some cases, it can take years to gain

kinds of cultural terrain, the universal

isolated), but most times we act surprised

ground and win the tough battle. For Up

setback/obstacle, or roadblock rather, has

when someone serves us disappointment.

& Comer Bri Cauz, a gifted singer, per-

undoubtedly been the dark and danger-

If we’re not educated in the truth that

former, producer and full-time musician,

ous zone of unforgiveness.

harboring unforgiveness truly poisons

it took a good number of years to work

us from within (and keeps us from our

her way through a maze of childhood

Across the universe, there exists

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2019

hurts as a result of her father’s unhealthy

in her heart. All that was missing was the

authentic parts of her story that maybe

addictions that led to her parents’

opportunity to express it fully. During

some would rather choose to hide or

divorce.

that time, however, God was working

forget about. Or maybe haven’t allowed

behind the scenes on her behalf that she

God to invade yet.

A CLOSE ENCOUNTER

wouldn’t understand until further along

Bri, now on the other side of things

Bri experienced hard things early on,

in her journey. In excitement she shares,

with a blossoming, Christ-centered rela-

things that can be confusing and frustrat-

“It was crazy because throughout that

tionship with her father, has a full album

ing especially during adolescence. She

time when my dad was homeless, I feel

titled Trials & Triumphs, intimately

says, “The concept of grace was never

like God—He had to almost, like, separate

sharing the real things she’s experienced.

really described to me before actually

us and work on us individually and then

Because she chooses to write about the

having a more personal connection with

bring us back together.”

things she’s actually lived out, people

Jesus. He always seemed very distant

can sincerely connect to her lyrics which

and far away. . .” Nonetheless, God didn’t

REAL REDEMPTION

is something she is hugely passionate

wait to pursue her heart and close the

Throughout the time Bri thought she may

about.

gap she’d felt all her years growing

never see her dad again, she explained

up. He saw the mess she was in from a

that he “was also coming back to Christ.”

masterpieces. He is not done with her

young age, and even though she didn’t

Far before she ever knew it, God’s plan for

story, but the redemption Bri has already

have a solid foundation in the Word, He

redemption was already set in motion.

been able to experience is undoubtedly

came alive to her in what she recalls the

And as she got closer to Him, she began

the Father’s beautiful work. In sharing

roughest years of her life. She remem-

to make her faith her own which is one

about what her life looks like today, Bri

bers laying on the floor one night, broken

talks about how even though her parents

her eyes. Because He didn’t hold back when she needed Him most, she had an encounter that interrupted the course of her life. In those intimate moments, she learned that “Jesus is real” and was touched through discovering that “He wants to know [her] personally and [that] He’s not this ‘far away’ God.”

aren’t back together, they happily sup-

"It was like she'd just seen her life

port her on her journey in adventuring

flash before her eyes. Because

of these details once seemed impossible

He didn't hold back when she needed Him most, she had an encounter that interrupted the course of her life."

By that time, her “earthly father had

further in her dreams and passions. All to her.

As we’ve heard and likely know, “with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). Walking out of darkness and into the light, whether it be from the shadows of unforgiveness or something else not intended for us to live in, is only

kind of failed [her] in a way,” Bri says, so

of the key things that has kept her rooted

possible hand-in-hand with our Maker.

she was easily impressed by the goodness

to this day.

He writes the best, most compelling and

of the “Heavenly Father who’s so much

Bri says, “I think not having [my

redemptive stories, like Bri’s. So long as

greater and wants to be in [her] life.”

dad around] and [experiencing] all the

we let Him in, especially in the moments

Once Jesus came into the picture, He

dysfunction and chaos around me is

we’re most afraid to (even when we don’t

had the opportunity to go down deep

ultimately what led me to Christ because

understand what’s going on), He can keep

and uproot the seeds of unforgiveness

that was the only thing stable—that

writing in the outcomes that surpass our

that grew over the years of not having

was real and made sense to me. Going

wildest, detailed dreams. In Bri’s words,

a healthy relationship with her dad. For

through all of that was no fun at all.

“He can take such a disgusting, ugly situ-

a long while, she felt unwanted—aban-

Those were honestly some of the hardest

ation and turn it into something so much

doned. As it took time for the the pain

times of my whole life, but I think that

greater.” This reality is 100% accessible

and heartbreak to build, it also took some

really has made me who I am and added

to us. All we have to do, like Bri, is choose

time for the mending and proper healing

to my story and made my faith so much

to stay the path especially when it’s the

to take place. But with His help, she

stronger.”

most difficult. He is always working on

leaned into it.

Bri remembers the difficult span of

With a robust testimony like Bri’s, it is

our behalf whether we recognize it or

no surprise that God is highlighting the

not. And no matter how lost we may feel

time where her father struggled on the

work He’s done in their history together.

at times, His heart for forgiveness will

streets. For four years, she didn’t hear

She thrives when she gets to share her

always be the answer; it’s the fast-track

from him which eventually led her to

heart, the deep and typically uncomfort-

road to redemption—our best way back

think that he was possibly dead. She was

able things she’s had to walk through.

home.

finally in a place in her life where she mi-

She continues to grow as an artist

raculously had true, beautiful forgiveness

because she’s willing to share the raw,

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MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

+ UP & COMER

and sobbing. She describes that it was like she’d just seen her life flash before

God is supremely brilliant at forming

Empowe Photo Copyright 2015 Marc Kallweit

BY JENENE STAFFORD AND NISSI GUIAO

With Sally Forcier I

t's easy to think of Hollywood and the

from God. It's no surprise it's time for

movie industry as dark and evil. All

her to rise up and embrace where God is

one has to do is open up their Netflix

positioning her. She understands she has

or Hulu app and the images of blood,

been set in a unique place of influence

death, murder, sexuality and even Lucifer are right

and she is more than prepared to infuse

there in your face. What if that's exactly why we're

culture with love.

called to go? If we believe that God's plan is for us

Sally Forcier as an actor has worked

Sally says, "When I started building

to empower others and influence culture, we might

my own production company I wanted

want to consider looking at a different point of view.

to empower people to produce inspir-

The film industry is a place that has great poten-

ing content that touches people's lives

in films and TV

tial, and opportunity should be at the top of your

from a spiritual aspect. I wanted people

with Sean Penn,

mind, if you have a passion for acting, directing or

to experience empowerment in every

Tony Shalhoub,

producing movies. This is what has lead Sally Forci-

circumstance. In fact, one of the taglines

er only a year and a half ago "to walk away from her

I want to use for a future project is

cushy job" and go from part time casting director to

empower, inspire and motivate. The word

"all in" in the entertainment industry.

'empower' has been resonating with me

Patrick Swayze, and Tony Danza, all in northern California.

In a recent interview, I had the opportunity to hear more of Sally's heart on where she stands today. She told me, "I was guided by God and I was

for a long time."

There are no accidents. Sally was chosen by God to be in this particular issue of Megamorphosis Magazine––and

erment

it happens to be themed "Empowered."

"I want to produce content in a way that gives people hope and faith that your future is unwritten, especially young people," Sally exclaimes.

She feels lead to producing because that's where her

empowered to have the courage to leave my job

strengths are right now. She says "I

because of the angels He sent me—you were one

have an amazing team of people that

of them." Sally Forcier, who happens to be one of

stepped up these past two films (Noto-

my long-time friends (I can tell you from personal

rious Nick and Ball Buster). From the

experience) is a gem of a woman and her heart is

first film where we didn’t really know

to empower people who know they're meant to go

our strengths, we really stepped up the

where some won't dare to go—the big screen.

second time around."

Sally embodies a different strand of courageous.

There's no question that Sally is a

She has become rather fearless in her position, now

coach, but also a student of the game,

that she's marked with a fresh, empowering word

learning like the rest of us the skills to

15

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

+ VOICES

go where she knows she's being sent.

God. We have to trust."

Going into this new year dreaming, she

Her willingness, her bravery to step out

Trust is important because it's the solid

mentions, "My dream genre would be a

where others would instead pivot away

foundation to spring from. If Sally doesn't

combination of self-help and awareness

is evident when she states the following.

do her best to stay in tune with God, she

coupled with drama. I would want people

"In my heart, I want to be able to provide

could miss His leadings into the things He

to feel inspired and motivated by the

a path for them to do what they love and

desires to do through her and her team.

film. I have done comedy. I have done

create a business my team can thrive in.

She has a soft heart for Sacramento. But

horror. And I have done drama. Inspira-

But, the end goal for me is always the

really, it's God's heart for Sacramento

tional moves are my happy place."

viewers. I want them to be inspired and

that she's in tune with. This is why in

empowered. I also want my team to be

order for her to impact the community

what the world is becoming more hungry

filled with excitement to wake up and do

in the way she's called to it is vital for

for. Past the surface, people are longing

what they do. In the end, my reward is

her to be close with God and keep her

for authenticity and they come alive

seeing others be blessed and empowered

relationship priority. Her connection to

through inspiration. Sally is determined

by what we produce as a team."

the Father is what will breed the wisdom,

to leave a lasting imprint through her

Sally and I agree that it takes "total

creativity and boldness to continue to

films, everything she produces. Unlike

trust" to step out and risk everything to

break molds of darkness in the typical-

any other time in history, there is ripe

be a leader and empower others to go

ly-sketchy industry based in Hollywood.

opportunity to make a real difference in

after their dream. And, we're starting to

Her love for Jesus, her obedience in shar-

the world. More than hard work, it looks

think about how we take our wisdom and

ing her passions and gifts, and her faith

like every believer simply living out their

start passing it on to the next generation.

in the midst of uncertainty is the light

lives, their callings, once they come alive.

She says, "It's not an easy task to come

that will shine when all else fails. When

This falls right into alignment with

Sally says, "There is good, bad and

on board and work night and day for

the Truth comes out, it powerfully makes

the ugly in every industry. Tv/film is not

little pay. These women that are on my

way for real freedom.

going away which means we have an

team keep coming back regardless of

God is up to something. He sees the

opportunity to produce inspiring content

what their lives look like outside of the

potential hidden within "the darling

for the world. There is going to be con-

industry. They keep coming back. There

city" of Sacramento and He wants to

tent for every person on their journey.

is something about this film world that

expose it with us on His team working

All of my work will reflect inspiration,

is beautiful. You love it or you hate it. If

alongside Him and doing our part. Sally

spirituality and will point to the truth

you love it, you will do whatever it takes

has a bright opportunity for growth and

that you are not alone. I want to see

to make it work. If it is in your blood you

expansion in her industry; it will be fun

impactful films that challenge people

are all in. For me, it has been a twenty

to watch what God will continue to do

to look at Christ. I also think there is a

plus year journey to get to this point."

with her faithfulness.

subtle way to do that. We can help guide

We never want to give the impression

Sally is inspired, excited for the future

people to the truth."

that getting into the indsutry is a cake

of her city as she continues to steward

walk, not so. It takes hard work and

what she has. She says, "I feel like we

however, is if they feel and come to know

dedication, but we have a big God and if

have valuable experience and a talented

they are loved. Our mandate is to love

He wants you right in the thick of a con-

crew, talented actors, amazing locations.

our neighbor as ourselves. That is Jesus'

troversial industry, we say 'go for it.'

Sacramento has so much to offer the film

command. When we can start doing that

community. It has been around 8 years

without putting a religious box around it,

ferent. Without the bitter, the sweet isn’t

in the making, but there are beautiful

we will see amazing things happen.

as sweet. Sally shares a personal, sweet,

things happening in Sacramento. This

"If a film drove the power of love

moment that anyone can grab hold

timing is better than ever because our

instead of hate," Sally says, "the power

of through faith. She says, "I am here

film commissioner passed a vote and we

of strength instead of fear, the power of

feeling God’s blessing. He is saying 'Now

are now able to have a full-time film com-

faith instead of doubt, this world would

is your time.' This coming year is going

misioner. [I] and other people in the film

be a more beautiful place. Hollywood is

to be filled with showers of blessings.

community have been really pushing for

an opportunity for that to happen. This

He is rewarding faith, but there are true

this. The leaders of the city are listening

is how we open the door to hearts to

struggles that come with having faith. My

now. My hope and dream for Sacramento

receive love insead of hate. In film, it is

own fear attempted to get in the way but

is to Empower the film and acting com-

time to start stepping through the door to

God did not give up. He kept dropping

munity to be able to thrive here. With the

let Hollywood represent God's love in an

things in my lap and I kept walking for-

digital age it is now much more doable to

open-armed way. People are hungry for

ward with what He gave me. If everyone

live in Sacramento and build a career in

that. This is the time now."

took the easy route, where would we all

this industry. Sacramento is ready."

Remember, everyone’s journey is dif-

be right now? We have to be in tune with

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

The only way people will follow,

The city may be ready, but so is Sally.

16

2019

to stand up for Christ, or hide our faith and just do what everyone else is doing.

We each get to choose what our life is going to represent.

Buzolic’s analogy fits: “When you sit in an exit row on an airplane, all they ask you is, ‘Are you willing and able to assist in case of emergency?’ And that’s all we really need to do with God. He comes to us and says, ‘I will use you in the emergencies of other people’s lives, and the emergencies of communities, people in need, as long as you’re willing and able to assist in that.” There is a spiritual emergency around every corner in this industry. Thank God He sends those who are willing to assist.

Russell Wolfe, producer and founder of Pure Flix, noted that movies need to “reaffirm with people why they believe what they believe.” Much of the unbelieving world sees Christianity as an outdated myth, a crutch for the weak. They don’t understand the power of a personal

DON'T GIVE UP ON HOLLYWOOD

BY BRALYNN NEWBY

relationship with God because they don’t see Christians behaving like they have one. But a new boldness is rising up with young actors like Nathaniel, who sees the unique opportunity of his positioning.

Actors are particularly wired for story.

They are readers and observers, and can articulate concepts, emotion and mean-

p

artnered with the glamour, mystique and ce-

ing in a captivating and winsome way.

lebrity of Hollywood are the dark undertones

Hollywood is uniquely positioned to shift

of corruption, perversion and evil agendas. It’s

...Christ fol-

a mission field ripe with opportunity to bring God’s light into the dark places. The power of

lowers on

story brought to life through the arts and entertainment indus-

the inside

try shapes minds and culture. For far too long the enemy has

and shape culture as the secret demons of each individual are overcome by the personal testimony of their believing co-workers. They have the singular advantage of living out their “why” behind

ruled this realm; and it’s time we join forces with the boots on the

have shed

ground there to shift culture for the Kingdom.

Bi-

era. We need to shore up the resolve and

ble-thump-

confidence of those called to this mission

ing in favor

field, and keep them in prayer. Let’s love

ence where trust is difficult to attain. They are re-presenting

Hollywood back to a new Golden Age. We

Jesus to a culture where Christians are seen as judgmental,

of building

Believers like Nathaniel Buzolic, Hacksaw Ridge (2016) costar, have been commissioned and positioned to have influ-

self-righteous, and condescending. The last thing we need to do is exercise the religious spirit that reinforces this stereotype.

relation-

Instead, we need to reframe what it looks like to be a believer

ships based

by rebuilding Jesus’ reputation.

on loving

Kingdom cultivating has made progress in the last several

others.

years, as Christ followers on the inside have shed Bible-thumping in favor of building relationships based on loving others.

the scenes, as well as in front of the cam-

can give the famous searchlights piercing the darkness a whole new meaning.

BRALYNN NEWBY: Speaker, Strategist, Online Business Manager at The Message Architect.

Going to work every day as an actor is no different than any of us going to work in any other profession. We all have the choice

17

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

Ghostcoast Visuals: Dreda Dre

“It’s a long hard road out of hell.

But I’m climbing up the back of that wayward wagon and pulling it back on trail with a rebel yell. I’m almost sober, I put that poison down. And you can come and stay where my black heart used to lay and we will run away. The battle is over now, so get up off the ground, cuz I am so much more than I was before. All of this love. All of this war. I’m almost sober.”

+

+ BY JENENE STAFFORDW

YOU SEE, MY LAST NAME GROWING UP WAS BERNSTEIN. I WAS ADOPTED AND BROUGHT UP IN A VERY STRICT, JEWISH

ALMOST SOBER

by Jenene Stafford

T

hose words are from Ian Love-

“I can see that God never left me." When

less’ title track on his new al-

he was locked up it was the first time he

and pulled me out of it."

Ian's mom and her loving words during

bum being produced. “I'm going

felt the real presence of Jesus Christ and

his young childhood years played a huge

to need God’s help, but the the

it was then he stopped blocking his ears.

part in helping him get back up and con-

whole album takes people on a

Ian shares, "Basically what I’ve come

tinue moving forward and believing that

journey, on the journey I was on, and it’s

to learn is that I can’t fix anybody. Peri-

he was born with a purpose. He says, "I

something they can relate to. It’s a drown-

od. We can’t fix anybody. If you put your

firmly believe that my mom’s prayers kept

ing place for the demons that anyone is

faith in the flesh it’s always gonna let you

me alive and it’s something I refer back to

welcome to,” he says.

down. All these years I’ve been trying to

because I still struggle. I’m far from per-

Sitting with Ian is a humbling experi-

find my purpose, asking myself ‘What’s

fect, but I do want to help people. I do feel

ence because quite honestly his humility

my purpose?’ But I realize now that my

like God is speaking to me and I’m just fi-

is so thick it rubs off. It’s so obvious on my

purpose is me. I’ve gone through what

nally listening.”

side of the table why people are drawn to

I’ve gone through to be a living, walking

The two occasions we sat down togeth-

him, his story and his music. A lot of peo-

witness to people, to show them how far

er, Ian was reciting his songs and it was

ple are in the pit of hell, in a prison cell or

you can fall and show them the power of

very clear that his music is not only part

sitting in utter darkness like he was, being

God. I don’t want to do anything anymore

of his story but part of him, and God is go-

taunted by the devil. His willingness to lay

to try and glorify myself. I want to try and

ing to use it to draw people into the Light.

it all on the line, to “go into the gutter” as

glorify my Father.

"I have a song that I wrote and the

he says, is totally empowered by God, who

The only way I can be a proper example

chorus says, ‘Mom if you can hear me, I

literally weeped in front of him when Ian

and help anybody is to help them draw

miss you oh so bad, and I’ll be thinking

finally came back home.

nearer to God. I can tell them about Jesus

about your light, your love, and life on

Ian's story may perhaps be the most

all day long, but they’re not going to listen,

my way to rehab. And Mom if you can

compelling testimony of redemption I’ve

necessarily. However, if I'm the best per-

see me please don’t look away, I know

ever heard in my life on finding hope in

son I can be and make myself available to

you never got to see a version of me that

the midst of darkness. It’s so abundantly

people, and if I put the effort in, maybe

was finally ok. It used to be that everyday

clear that this is why Ian is now a son of

they will, if I lean on God no matter what."

your prayers kept me safe and I’m a little

God. He’s a walking testimony to the hope

At this place in his life now, just over

bit afraid cause you’ve gone away. I’m up

of Jesus Christ and writing this story has

two and a half years clean, Ian finds the

against the rope but I won’t lose hope and

me moved to tears like no other.

most peace in solitude on his knees talking

I’m wondering do angels still pray? Would

To see Ian it is obvious he’s walked a

to Jesus. "It’s the only thing that brings me

you send one my way?’

long, hard, dark road; his presence on the

peace anymore. It’s not easy to be sober

“I know that with the album that I’m

other hand is full of light and God’s glory.

and off of all of this stuff when for fifteen

gonna draw up, called Almost Sober, I

But his journey walking in the Light has

years I was always on something.

want it to be a drowning place for people’s

been short in comparison to his life of

The drugs were my escape basically

demons, a place that they can come and a

violence, crime and addiction, and he is

from the feelings and from what I thought

place that glorifies the power of God in a

still on a healing journey, gracefully being

I was supposed to do. So I know that I am

person. It’s not aiming toward a Christian

held in his Father’s hands.

a living testimony. I still give God all the

audience. I want it to be a secular record

Ian recently moved back to Rocklin,

glory, it’s not like I’m great or anything.

because my ministry is in the gutter. It’s

California from Nashville, but in doing

But I figured it out that all I need to do is

where people need help. I can relate to

so broke his parole. He says, “I’m going

just tell people the truth, that I used to (for

people like that.”

to clean it up and take whatever penalty

breakfast lunch and dinner) put a needle

As I was telling Ian that God literally

is required, I might have to do at least 45

in my neck and shoot crystal meth and

delayed this issue of Megamorphosis for

days or a couple of months, but whatever

heroine and I used to steal semi-trucks

his story to come out and that this issue

it is I’m going to be telling people about Je-

and basically hurt the hearts of everybody

theme "Empowered" was about being the

sus if they put me back in.” This isn’t Ian’s

I love, and I stopped using God’s gift."

light and piercing the darkness, Ian gave

first rodeo show, he’s done time before,

Ian admits now that for years he let the

me these lyrics that God gave him—"Love

and he even admits, “I was such a crim-

enemy win. It wasn't until he had a spir-

will come my way, faith will make it stay,

inal that I told the Judge ‘Whatever time

itual encounter with the devil in his cell

and hope will be the flame to light the

I get I know I deserve, and even more.’”

that he saw him for who he really was.

way, when I’m dancing in the dark.

Ian says "I know I'm meant to lead peo-

"He had me and he was damn near doing

ple to God and that was what I was born to

a victory dance," he says. "But, I do believe

do." Now that he’s clear minded he says,

it was my mom’s prayers that saved me

19

“I don’t write any of these songs, God writes them and gives them to me.

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

+ VOICES

I’m not like the greatest singer or song-

It’s so much easier to give in and be tough

last year. But, Ian admits her faith is total-

writer, but if he can turn somebody like

and fight back. I would get jumped all of

ly what kept her going. “Always with God

me around, and make all of my wilder-

the time so I started Kickboxing to tough-

it’s like grace standing next to the enemy’s

ness and pain (that has been my whole

en myself up. Now I see I was just being

wrath, he says.”

life) matter and inspire people and make

tested and it was a chance to prevail, but I

people draw nearer to Him and regain

would give in every time."

hope, it’s worth it. I’ll go through it all

It just seemed like he couldn’t get a break and he started to get angry at God

If there was such a thing as bad luck,

again and said, "I’ve missed her my whole

Ian would get the award. His life was

life and now you’re just gonna take her

To this point you've only got a glimpse

full of tragically hard stuff and the devil

from me?" So he started to feel the rage

into the broken life of Ian Loveless and

seemed to always be there to make sure

again, but he says now “I didn’t realize

you may not realize how powerful his

and sabotage any opportunity of living a

that God was getting me back then to be

statement above actually is. But as you

normal life and staying clean.

the person that I am today, to lead people

again,” he says.

read on you'll understand that only a

"I came to God in the 7th grade and I

back to Him and give them hope. That’s

son who has incredible love

why He gave me my music,

for his Father could say it

to glorify Him. I was a little

and mean it, especially since

“I didn't recognize

what you've read so far barely touches the surface of how far into hell Ian really fell.

“I was literally born into the arms of an angel and that was my mom," he says. He was born with the umbilical chord around his neck and he suffered brain damage to his

sh** and I totally squandered it."

The

enemy

convinced

the tools and gifts that

Ian that he was heroic and

God put in me because

fighter and that’s how he

I was so messed up on

frontal lobe, and as a young child he persevered only be-

drugs and alcohol.”

cause of his mom. But at age

invincible so he became a started to harness his rage.

"I didn’t recognize the tools and gifts that God put in me because I was so messed up on drugs and alcohol. I would get up on stage and get the crowd all riled up,

seven he lost his mom due to

sometimes

thousands

of

a court order and he was taken to live in

arranged a Bible Club at my school and

people when I was on tour, but I was poi-

Maine and then kidnapped back by his

they tried to ban it, but I wanted to be a

soning my message and that’s something

mom. But, because of a broken tail light

rebel so I said ‘Screw that, I’m gonna do

that I will have to live with and I can’t take

she was pulled over and arrested and Ian

it.’ But the kids were caught smoking pot

back.

recalls, “The last time I hugged my mom

at the club and that put a damper on it.

Women would fall for me and I would

goodbye I was a little boy and then I didn’t

At the same time my cousin hung himself

give into temptation and sometimes I

see her again until I was 19 and already

and I found him dead up in Oregon and

would misguide them, and I would use

had a criminal record. And I was in a rock

it’s a picture I can’t un-see."

them up as much as I was using myself up.

band, and on my way to being an animal.”

Ian tried to convince himself that he

And I wouldn’t throw them to the wolves,

“My mom was the love of my life and

didn’t believe in God anymore after that

but I’d leave them with this empty space

I missed her a lot. I grew up in Del Paso

tragedy. “I just turned really dark. I quit

inside them. Basically, I was hurt and I

Heights and it’s a really rough area. I tried

the Bible Club. I started wearing all black,

was doing more damage than good, to

to remain the sweetest little boy but I was

wore black nail polish and stayed in a

myself and other people," he says.

made to lie a lot when I was younger. I

dark room all the time. I would get off of

Fast forward, Ian found out that his

thought that I was made to steal and cheat

being grounded and I would go out and

ex-girlfriend was pregnant while he was

so I began to get mean and hardened my

get into a fight. I was just acting out. I was

on the Vans Warped Tour. His career was

heart out of necessity." Ian points to his

full of so much rage and I would say that

beginning to take off and he was fairly

neck and says, "That’s why I got this sheep

rage has been one of the main key prob-

successful, but his band had broken up

in wolves clothing around my neck.

lems for me along with the drugs—rage

and he still struggled with pills and co-

and sorrow.”

caine and alcohol at some level. But when

I always had God in my heart, but it just seemed like everything around me when

When Ian became an adult, he reunited

he found out he was going to have a child

I was away from my mother during those

with his mom and found out she had stage

he became hopeful he could be better and

years was trying to separate me from my

four ovarian cancer. However, by the

get clean. "It was like all of a sudden God

faith; it seemed like signs were every-

grace of God she beat it and she lived with

popped up again. It was always like here’s

where that said ‘Ian why should you try?’

it for another ten years until she passed

something great again and here’s a reason

> continued on page 27 ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

20

2019

RISK TAKERS

+ RISK TAKER

TIPS FOR 2019

Darlene Smartt-Azimi, Sonia Hassey, Sandi Padilla, Jenene Stafford, Bralynn Newby and Judy Flannery (From left to right)

Sonia

FROM THE DESTINY WOMEN GLOBAL FOUNDING MEMBERS

Tips from Six Empowered DWG Women to Take on Your Purpose in 2019

1

DARLENE SMARTT-AZIMI:

self-sabotaging

Member of Destiny

thoughts myself

Women Global

and I know that we

God has given us a very

can transform our

powerful tool which is our

thinking by creating

mind. We need to respect our thoughts

powerful positive

and be mindful of managing our thinking

thoughts.

Darlene

and not allow self-sabotaging, non-productive thoughts to run rampant. When this occurs, have an affirmation ready to blow it down. My tip for the year is to take on powerful thinking, and I

2

SONIA HASSEY:

breakers! 1) Have clarity on your goals. 2)

Founder of Destiny

Give up on the feeling of trying so hard and

Women Global

stay in the flow. 3) Stay focused on results.

Renewing our minds

4) Direct your thoughts on what you desire,

encourage you to practice immediately

daily to God's ways, this is a must in

not on what you don't want. 5) Believe that

replacing any undesirable thoughts with

order for us to step into our great-

things are lining up for you. Faith power

three desirable thoughts. Now, we have

ness. I see clearly that God doesn't

works wonders. 6) Surround yourself with

interrupted the self-sabotaging thought.

dwell in our negative, or limited

like-minded people, that believe in your

Truly self control is what we want and

thinking about ourselves. We are

calling. 7) Take risks, we won't know what is

where the power lies. I've dealt with

movers, shakers and glass ceiling

on the other side unless we do. 8) Help others

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

22

2019

Photo by Evodio Walle

who will soon belong to Him.

4

Bralynnn

JENENE STAFFORD: Founding Member & Brand Designer of Destiny Women Global

This year will be even noisier than last year so we need to be listening for God's

Rios dolectur aut dendi

direction and do our best to drown out

dolestis simoluptio doluptas

My tip is to disregard the news on TV and

pario. Et quidi

on the purpose you know you're called

the noise of what's happening around us. focus on the Good News. Keep your eye to. Ask the Lord to give you your own word to declare over yourself and believe it regardless of how things look. Tape it up somewhere and keep it front and center. This will help you increase your faith muscle and step into your destiny

Sandi

for 2019.

5

BRALYNN NEWBY: Founding Member of Destiny Women Global There are so many distrac-

tions and work that keeps us busy, but not moving forward toward our destiny.

We allow other people to control our time and attention with emails, phone calls, and texts. How often do we get lost

Jenene

in ridiculous videos or pulled down a rabbit hole by shopping ads on social media? In order to manifest the big vision

Judy

we have, we must be intentional, focused, and operate with a sense of purpose daily. Plan your calendar, set alarms, and stay on track. Your Destiny is worth your discipline!

6

JUDY FLANERY:

achieve their goals. 9) Know that you are

may have faded from their spheres of

blessed, highly favored and deeply loved.

influence will come back with an even

10) Love yourself and know that this is

greater impact. My tip for this year is to

your time.

share your own personal story of courage

and well-being by filling your calendar

3

Founding Member of Destiny Women Global Be mindful of your health

and faith because it will draw people into

with activities and experiences that

SANDI PADILLA:

finding a spiritual connection with Jesus.

nourish your soul. Include time with the

Founding Member of

This year will also be a year of reso-

Father, eat nutritious foods, focus on fit-

Destiny Women Global

nance. This amazing, rhythmic vibration

ness and exercise. Don't sacrifice family

Resilience is what we are

is the sound of God’s heart beating for

time, but fill your cup so you can, in turn,

those who belong to Him, but also those

fill the cups of others.

going to see a lot of in 2019! People who

www.DestinyWomenGlobal.com

23

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

+ RISK TAKER

FORGIVENESS: HEAVEN'S WEAPON

Deep calls to deep In the roar of your waterfalls; All your waves and breakers have swept over me.

Psalm 42:7

HEATHER MURDOCK'S STORY

BY HEATHER MURDOCK

D

ecember 18, 1994, a day I will never forget. A day marked by such horrific pain I doubted I would ever escape its onslaught. Soul suffocation. My heart hammered into a million pieces. I dropped the phone and sunk to the floor, as

darkness closed in around me like the blackest night. I don’t remember much about the following hours except that Sheila, my dear friend, picked me up and didn’t let go until I ended up in the seat of an airplane for a flight home. A drunk driver had killed my sister. She and three friends had been driving home from The Nutcracker ballet in Sacramento, when a man

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<–– "MY SISTER, WILLOW SONG, AND I AS TEENAGERS, STANDING IN FRONT OF THE BUS WE GREW UP IN. I'M ON THE LEFT AND SHE'S ON THE RIGHT."

on his way home from his company Christmas party

that caused self-loathing, deceit and more shame. Bulimia

hit them head on. I couldn’t breathe. I wanted to die.

became more than a way to stay perfect; it became a way

Why couldn’t it have been me?

to control my circumstances. It became a way to purge my

That dark day collided with a wounded girl

pain. Bulimia was my secret drug of choice for many years.

running from her past. A past scarred by shame,

And even as a wife and mom, it was the crutch I would go to

poverty, guilt and isolation. I had run all the way to

to deal with the self-inflicted pain of perfectionism. Always

the other side of the country, running to outdistance

performing for love.

the confusion and hurt caused by my father. I was a girl with stars in my eyes, hoping to find myself in

The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them.

the glittering lights of fame and fortune.

People judge by outward appearance,

Ironically, before the accident I wanted to come home, but didn’t know how. I was afraid of coming

but the Lord looks at the heart.

(1 Samuel 16:7)

home and admitting I failed, that I didn’t make it in the Big City, the city that promised you everything

Right in the center of my storm, I gave my life to Jesus.

and left you with nothing. Willow’s death took me

That’s a powerful story and one I will write another day. But

home.

let me just say that it was like I had been wandering in the

The road to redemption was long and winding

dark all my life, in fear of the light. Then the Light came, and

and full of detours. For many years after her death,

fear fled. Light filled my heart, my vision, my mind. Light

I made choices that hurt me and others. I grieved

penetrated the darkness. From the moment I experienced,

in self-sabotage, secretly blaming myself, God and

believed and received the total forgiveness and love of Jesus,

ultimately the man who gave the keys to the drunk

I gave myself fully to Him, and I haven’t stopped.

driver. If only I’d been there, if only God had intervened, if only he hadn’t been so stupid. If only…

In him was life, and that life Was the light of all mankind.

My eyes grow weak with sorrow

The light shines in the darkness,

My soul and body with grief

And the darkness has not overcome it.

My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; My strength

(John 1:4-5)

fails because of my affliction and my bones grow weak. (Psalm 31:910)

A few months after this glorious surrender, I was at a business meeting that I wasn’t going to attend and met a wonder"In 2000 I was 29 years old and felt like I’d already

ful Christian couple. All we did was rave to each other about

lived several lives. That year, I met the man I would

Jesus. When we finally got down to business, they told me

marry. Marriage, children, career. I’d grown up. I

they had recently retired from the mortgage industry. When

was deeply blessed. But in many ways, I still lived in

I asked where they had worked, it turned out to be the same

the past. A confirmed perfectionist, I wore my mask

company that had the Christmas party fifteen years before.

well and pretended to move on with my life. Worldly

My heart raced as I said the name of the driver. They hes-

success came easy. But many nights my husband

itated and looked at each other with uncertain recognition.

would find me late in the evening, lying on the bed,

Finally, she said, “Yes, there was an accident!” I told them

tucked into the fetal position, crying. He would ask

that was my sister. We all stood in stunned amazement. They

me what was wrong, and I couldn’t say. Depression

told me they started working there only a few months after

had been an unwanted traveling companion for

the accident and the owner of the company, the man respon-

years, and sometimes it got into the driver’s seat.

sible for giving the keys to the drunk driver, had become

Jesus pursues us even in our greatest unworthi-

their best friend. The next moment was like an out of body

ness. At seventeen I entered a local beauty pageant,

experience. It felt like all the air had been sucked out of the

and a friend confided how she’d been throwing up

room. “Can I have his number?” They looked confused and

to lose weight. I never had a weight problem, but I

I quickly said, “I want to forgive him.” As soon as the words

would be walking on stage in a bathing suit. What

poured from my lips, I panicked. What? Wait! I don’t want to

could it hurt to drop a few pounds? What started as

do that! How can I possibly do that!? But the Holy Spirit had

an experiment became an addiction, an addiction

a hold on me.

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But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes,

much, how could I not extend the same

forgiveness and trust Him with our past,

he will guide you into all truth.

forgiveness?

present and future. When we trust Him

He will not speak on his own;

I never thought about what he and his

with our heart and allow Him to be the

he will speak only what he hears,

family lost that night. I never thought

Lord of our lives, forsaking our own way

and he will tell you what is yet to come.

about what he might have had to live

so that we may walk in His will. Then, we

(John 16:13)

through. The guilt. The regret. I only

become a new human being. As followers

blamed. I told him I had made bad de-

of Jesus, we are a new race of human

I stared at the number scrawled on a

cisions as well, that I was lucky none of

being walking this Earth with Kingdom

yellow sticky note, trembling inside with

them ever took a life. I was given grace,

influence and power. Forgiven and free

fear. What would I say? What would he

even when I didn’t deserve it. He made a

forever.

say? For years I had blamed him. Every

bad decision, and there is grace for that,

year he and his wife threw company

too.

Christmas parties at their home. They

When we extend that same grace and mercy through forgiveness, we walk in

I hung up the phone and sat in awe as

the anointing of the Peacemaker. We

had a rule that if their employees were

revelation and healing swept over my

walk side by side with our Messiah,

going to drink, they had to turn in their

body. In that moment, I felt as though

empowered by the Holy Spirit to move

keys and sleep there. At some point

a thousand pounds lifted from my

mountains and build bridges to resto-

during the night, the employee ap-

shoulders. Weight I didn’t even realize I

ration and healing. Forgiveness is not a

proached his boss and said he wanted to

carried. Burden that had become a part

feeling, but a choice. A life-giving choice.

leave. There was a discussion about his

of me. I forgave my father. I finally saw

It’s not a one time event, but often a

level of intoxication, but his keys were

him as a broken man who loved me to

series of choices made out of obedience

given to him anyway. Witnesses later tes-

the capacity he was able to.

to God. As Christians, we often pray for

tified that he was too drunk to drive. That

I was able to forgive God. I had carried

restoration; for Jesus to heal our hearts,

night he killed my sister, her best friend,

anger because He didn’t prevent the ac-

repair our relationships and renew our

Cathy, and himself. My sister’s boyfriend

cident. And I was able to forgive myself.

purpose. But, sometimes we refuse to for-

and Cathy’s sister still daily endure the

I had learned to be so hard on myself. I

give and there is no restoration without

physical pain of that fatal night.

carried responsibility that was not mine

forgiveness.

For several days I struggled with fear.

My husband and I went to our pastors for

to carry. Responsibility groomed by codependency from my childhood.

Our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against a very real enemy in

guidance and prayer. They encouraged

A couple months later I was praising

me this was an invitation to break the

Jesus as I read my journal entries. He had

the spiritual realm. The devil’s strategy is to lock us up in resentment, bitterness

chains of the enemy, to set the captives

been so faithful. I was captivated by an

and confusion. To be made useless. But

free. Not just my chains, but his chains

intense love, joy and peace that I’d never

forgiveness is a weapon of Heaven’s

too. This was a calling from God to heal

known. A freedom I didn’t think possible.

army, forged by the King of Kings Himself

the sins of the past, to bring God’s King-

As I reflected, I sat upright. It suddenly

to set the captives free. Will you pick up

dom on earth as it is in Heaven.

dawned on me I hadn’t been counting

your weapon today?

calories. I hadn’t been consumed with For he has rescued us from the dominion of

worry about what I would eat, or how

Now my beloved ones, I have saved these most im-

darkness and brought us into the kingdom

I would get rid of it. In fact, I hadn’t

portant truths for last: Be supernaturally infused with

of the Son he loves,

purged in months. I had good spans of

strength through your life-union with the Lord Jesus.

whom we have redemption,

time in the past where I didn’t indulge

Stand victorious with the force of his explosive power

the forgiveness of sins.

in my eating disorder, but I’d always

flowing in and through you. Put on God’s complete set

(Colossians 1:13-14)

obsessed about food and its consequenc-

of armor provided for us, so that you will be protected

es. But it was finally gone. No thought. No

as you fight against the evil strategies of the accuser!

worry. No obsession.

Your hand-to-hand combat is not with human beings,

A week later I called him. It was a conversation I will never forget and

To this day, I have not had one

but with the highest principalities and authorities

testify about often. I mostly listened as he

thought, one incident of my Bulimia. I’m

operating in rebellion under the heavenly realms. For

went through a myriad of emotions on

completely free and healed of the eating

they are a powerful class of evil spirits that hold this

the other end of the line. Shock, anger,

disorder that imprisoned me for almost

dark world in bondage. Because of this, you must wear

remorse, indignance, surrender. He

twenty years. The power of forgiveness

all the armor that God provides so you’re protected as

asked me how I had the courage to call

is unstoppable, unshakable and unsur-

you confront the slanderer, for you are destined for all

him. No one from the tragedy ever had. I

passable. We are completely forgiven

things and will rise victorious. (Ephesians 6:10-13)

told him Jesus. Jesus had forgiven me so

in Christ when we accept His gift of

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> continued from page 20

to fix yourself. But then the devil would

save him from himself and the life that he

come and sideswipe me, ya know, look

was consumed with. Another reason to

enemy.

I did security for awhile for these pros-

out for a train and you get hit by a bus. I

get clean presented itself when Ian met

titutes and one time I carved 'trick' into

would give in and fall every time."

his (now) ex-wife and married her, but it

the forehead of one of these guys for what

Ian's ex-girlfriend proved she was preg-

didn’t take long to figure out they were far

he tried to do to one of the girls. I was re-

nant on video chat and he quit the tour.

too broken and together they embarked

ally doing some wicked stuff and it’s hard

He wanted to try and do the right thing

on a descent like no other. He said, “I

for me swallow."

and get his life together so they moved

wanted to step away from the chaos and

Ian planned heists and admits that he

into a place in Baltimore, Maryland. He

fix myself so bad, but the devil had a hold

hurt everyone, and did alot of damage to

got totally clean and sober for the first

on me and we just ended up hurting each

people. He says, "In the back of my mind I

time ever at the end of 2010 and his

other.”

would hold myself accountable, but I was

Ultimately he ended up moving back to

so spun out and so angry that I wanted to

Three and a half months later trag-

his childhood home, Sacramento, and fell

edy knocked at Ian's door again and his

into a full life of crime. He connected in

There was a three and a half year pe-

daughter passed away in his arms from

with a few gangs, but was never initiated,

riod of time where he didn’t pay for any-

sudden infant death syndrome. He says,

but together they did organized crime. "I

thing. He stole everything—food, clothes,

"I couldn’t save her and I had 911 on

would steal semi-trucks and would turn

gifts, and cars. He says, "I wanted to ap-

the phone and they told me I’d probably

‘em and strip ‘em and flip ‘em. I would

pear like I had my sh** together so I would

break her ribs, and I felt her ribs break.

steal whole loads of huggies and pampers

bring my family gifts. I would switch vin

She just turned completely blue and let

and sell them for half price or give them

numbers on cars—I did time for that. I

go and that was the moment I completely

away to people who needed them."

ended up pleading out when my head

broke.

watch the world burn."

Ian admits "my moral compass was

cleared. I just ended up doing some mon-

I felt the most intense rage I had ever

misguided and it was was hanging on

strous stuff. I’ve now learned through my

felt and it felt powerful, for a moment. A

for dear life." He would try to convince

sobriety to apply that determination, that

power that was uncontainable, like my

himself that his intentions were pure

tenacity, to positive things.

body couldn’t even hold the rage. I had

even though he was just such a mess. He

I ended up getting shot in the leg, I went

been clean since I found out about her,

still felt a feeling of reproach but was too

to rescue a girl from a party. They had giv-

then the first thing I did was I got a bottle

deeply imbedded into a viscious cycle of

en her GHP and she was only 16. I showed

and I immediately hit up a friend in Balti-

crime and addiction and continued to lose

up there and I was met with opposition

more that worked at a strip club because I

more and more of himself.

because they had plans for her. This op-

knew she could get me drugs; I slept with

He was known in all these heavily gang

posing gang to the people that I ran with,

her and she got me heroine and crystal

areas as the one white guy that would

they were into sex trafficking in the area,

meth.

walk in and get hugs from everybody. He

and I knew that. So before I went over to

I had never even tried those drugs but I

says, "People were always drawn to me."

rescue her I gave myself a shot of hero-

wanted the two strongest drugs you could

At this point in his criminal career he had

ine and crystal meth in my neck and I put

get and I wanted to put them in my veins."

turned away from his music completely.

a shot of steroids in my butt cheek, and

Ian was so desperate and out of control

He either sold all of his instruments or

I went blazing in there ready for battle.

he looked up on Youtube how to shoot up

they were stolen by rival gangs.

I was really brutal and I did some real

drugs and he did it. He says, "Before that

The hard life was starting to show—"I

physical damage to people, but I got her

I was ready to put a bullet in my head."

hadn’t yet busted my teeth out, but I was

out of there, and in turn I got shot in the

Like any other musician parent, he envi-

skinny, I was pale, I looked sick and ev-

leg.

sioned what his daughter’s voice would

erybody that knew me told me that my

When I went in I was held for question-

sound like and how they'd sing together

eyes were completely black all the time.

ing because they wanted to know who

one day. But that wasn’t God’s plan at that

It looked like someone else was looking

shot me. I was so into these hood rules

time, he says.

through my face. The enemy was wearing

and hood mentality and I thought, ‘I’m

me like a suit, but, I would still try and

not gonna snitch.’ So I ended up being

fight through it," he says.

detained and my femur was shattered in

Each tragedy led Ian to a deeper hole and darker place where the enemy would make Ian his puppet and his life his play-

Ian lived in a constant battle and there

four places and I had a bullet fragment in

ground. After the death of his daughter,

was a tug of war happening over his soul.

my back so they put me on fentanyl patch-

he says, “I found heroine and I found an

"I would gravitate toward these broken

es because they didn’t realize I was a drug

escape and I felt invincible again. I went

people and even then I realized that God

addict. Between that and the IV, I was just

back to the gym and started shooting ste-

was still using me when I was on drugs,

high out of my mind.

roids."

but I still felt like a failure because at the

It took me about 8 and a half months

end of the day I was still in bed with the

to heal from that and I was in a cast up

Ian always thought someone else could

> continued on page 33

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daughter was born on Feb 15, 2011.

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Photo by Daniel Sandvik

been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

WHY JESUS WAS BORN IN A MANGER Luke 2:7 “and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

Have you ever stopped to consider why

By Lori Hill

God allowed His only son to be born in a

Co-author of The Dokimos Project

lowly manger? Could not an omniscient,

There's More To The Manger

loving, all powerful God have arranged a room at the inn? Or even better, could he not arrange for Jesus to be born in a palace with midwives, servants and clean water? Can you imagine bringing your wife into an animal stall to give birth, in

the time came for the baby to be born, 7

the dark, without help? Can you imagine

and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.

wrapping your son in swaddling cloth to

She wrapped him in cloths and placed

protect his skin from the hay and placing

him in a manger, because there was no

him in a feed trough as a makeshift cra-

guest room available for them. 8 And

dle?

’ve followed Jesus for many

there were shepherds living out in the

Rest assured, the author of all creation

years, and I’ve just recent-

fields nearby, keeping watch over their

did not fall asleep at the wheel and over-

ly come to understand that

flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord ap-

look the hardship that this was to his par-

the manger is not what

peared to them, and the glory of the Lord

ents. I believe this choice was deliberate

I thought it was. What I have learned

shone around them, and they were ter-

with a clear intentionality and purpose.

brings so much more meaning to the birth

rified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do

Many know that Micah prophesied that

of Christ. I can’t look at the nativity the

not be afraid. I bring you good news that

the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem:

same way any more. Let me share what

will cause great joy for all the people. 11

Micah 5:2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,

I have learned. First, here’s the biblical

Today in the town of David a Savior has

though you are small among the clans of

account of the birth of Jesus: Luke 2:1-20

been born to you; he is the Messiah, the

Judah, out of you will come for me one

New International Version (NIV).

Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will

who will be ruler over Israel, whose ori-

find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in

gins are from of old, from ancient times."

I

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company

This was understood by the Pharisees

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a

of the heavenly host appeared with the

at the time of Jesus and is referred to in

decree that a census should be taken of

angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glo-

two gospel accounts (Matt 2:5, John 7:42).

the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the

ry to God in the highest heaven, and on

God arranged for Joseph and Mary to be

first census that took place while[a] Quir-

earth peace to those on whom his favor

in Bethlehem in response to the Roman

inius was governor of Syria.) 3 And every-

rests.” 15 When the angels had left them

census. Joseph went back to his family, to

one went to their own town to register. 4

and gone into heaven, the shepherds said

his hometown. Everyone probably knew

So Joseph also went up from the town of

to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem

who Joseph was. And the inn didn’t have

Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem

and see this thing that has happened,

room? That doesn’t make sense. With a

the town of David, because he belonged to

which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So

better understanding of the Jewish cul-

the house and line of David. 5 He went

they hurried off and found Mary and Jo-

ture of that time, it helps to give us a clear

there to register with Mary, who was

seph, and the baby, who was lying in the

picture of the circumstances surrounding

pledged to be married to him and was ex-

manger. 17 When they had seen him, they

Jesus’ birth. The word translated as “inn”

pecting a child. 6 While they were there,

spread the word concerning what had

is the Greek word “kataluma” (Strong’s

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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G2646) but it also means guest-room,

protect the temple flocks. During lamb-

lying in the manger.” The translation was

which is a more accurate description of

ing season, the sheep were brought there

probably an attempt to smooth out the

what was happening. It is more likely that

from the fields, as the lower level func-

text, but we lose a big part in the meaning

each house in Joseph’s extended family

tioned as the birthing room for sacrificial

of what is happening when that word is

was full due to the census. And because

lambs. And a birthing room for sacrificial

replaced (the Greek word THE - Strong’s

Mary and Joseph were Jewish, Mary had

lambs is assumed to be very clean, not the

G3588). The Thayer Greek Dictionary de-

to be in an isolated place to give birth. The

smelly stable that we all envision when

fines it as “the definite article”—the, in its

room couldn’t be shared with a bunch of

we think of the manger.

masculine, or feminine, is the demonstra-

family members, because Mary would

Priestly shepherds, those tasked with

have immediately been unclean due to

raising the flock to produce sacrificial

tive pronoun.

Looking at that event, with a Hebrew

the birthing process. So she needed to be

lambs, would wrap the newborn lambs in

mindset and an understanding of the Jew-

in seclusion. All of the guest-rooms in the

strips of cloth and place them in a man-

ish culture and the temple sacrifice, we

family homes were full with the family,

ger to keep them calm. The strips of cloth

can clearly see that the manner of Jesus’

and they would have squeezed them in

were to bind their legs so they wouldn’t

birth foreshadowed the purpose for Jesus

because of the hospitality

coming into the world: John

and respect that they would

1:29 “The next day John saw

have shown to Joseph as a

Jesus coming toward him and

descendent of King David.

But the birth was about to happen. So they had to go elsewhere and God provided the perfect, prophetic place.

Why the manger in Beth-

“There is way more to the account than we see on the surface.”

said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” and 1 Peter 1:18-20 “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty

lehem? It might be tempting

way of life handed down to

to conclude that it was to

you from your forefathers,

honor David. It is likely that

but with the precious blood

the shepherds in the fields of Bethlehem

injure themselves. They were the lambs

of Christ, a lamb without blemish or de-

were raising lambs in the very fields that

designated for the temple sacrifice, so

fect. He was chosen before the creation

King David, as a boy, watched over his

they had to be without spot or blemish, no

of the world, but was revealed in these

sheep and composed Psalms to honor his

defects (self-inflicted defects included).

last times for your sake.” Before Jesus

Heavenly Father. In fact, the shepherds

These lambs had to be suitable to be sac-

had taken his first breath, it was already

the night of Jesus’ birth may have been

rificial lambs for the sin of the Israelites.

decided that His life was to be given as a

on the same land that Boaz redeemed for

Bethlehem was special because this is

sacrifice to pay the penalty for our sins.

Naomi and passed on to his son Jesse, Da-

where Levitical shepherds in the fields of

God testified to his intent by having Jesus

vid’s father. However, I don’t think this is

Bethlehem raised lambs for the temple

be born in the manner and location of the

the reason for choosing Bethlehem.

sacrifices in Jerusalem. The shepherds

sacrificial lambs of the temple just as the

who heard the angels and came to see the

prophet Micah proclaimed.

THERE'S MORE TO THE STORY

baby Jesus were certainly familiar with

Oh come let us adore Him, Christ the

As I grow in my walk with Jesus and my

the technique to birth a sacrificial lamb.

Lord. The Perfect Lamb, slain before the

understanding of the deep layers and

They were probably confused to hear

foundation of the world.

meaning that the scriptures have, there

what the angel said—a baby was birthed

is way more to this account than what we

in the manner and location of a sacrificial

see on the surface. If you continue to read

lamb.

RESOURCES:

Micah, he further prophesied that king-

The angels did not have to tell the shep-

ship would come to the “Daughter of Jeru-

herds precisely where to go in Bethlehem

salem” at Migdal Eder: Micah 4:8 “As for

to find Jesus, because there was only one

you, O watchtower of the flock [Hebrew:

manger where sacrificial lambs were

Migdal Eder], O stronghold of the Daugh-

birthed, the cave under the watch tower

ter of Zion, the former dominion will be

of Migdal Edar. The translation that we

restored to you; kingship will come to the

read uses the word “a” instead of “the” for

Daughter of Jerusalem."

Luke 2:12. But if we look at the verse in

Migdal Eder was a watchtower located

the Greek Interlinear, it says “…you will

in the northern part of Bethlehem built to

find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths,

29

1 Rabbi Jason Sobel (YouTube Video on The Significance of Swaddling Cloths) 2 The Tower of the Flock by Dr. Juergen Buehler, ICEJ 3 The Birth Revisited by Harold Smith, He That Has An Ear Ministries 4 United Church of God, Good News Blog, Was there Really "No Room in the Inn" by Mario Seiglie and Tom Robinson

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS

BY NISSI GUIAO

James Love is a fresh, young artist, a singer/songwriter with an incredible story of hope. We had the honor and privilege of interviewing him shortly after the 10-year anniversary of the day he nearly lost his life in an assault. His story of forgiveness and redemption is much more than a compilation of nice words. He shares his authentic relationship with the Father. And there’s a richness in the statements he makes in recalling the struggles he’s faced over the years since the incident that nearly took his life. We invite you to see what he has to say about his decade-long journey and we hope you’ll be encouraged when you hear this intimate story of how God made real beauty from the ashes in the aftermath of the darkest day of his life.

od is good, all the time.

And, depression is very, very intense.

from such an active lifestyle of just being

But if we don’t know

Also, dealing with continual neck pain. .

crazy and being able to do everything and

Him, chances are we also

.I had a lot of rage fits where I would just

anything to being able to do almost noth-

don’t know that He’s the

break stuff or just yell and scream or just

ing. That’s when I picked up the guitar

good, good Father most

throw my skateboard as far as I could. I

and realized this was something I can do.”

people in the church sing about. James

was very angry at where I was in life. I felt

“After that year mark,” James says,

Love grew up in the church; he was in and

like God had stolen so much of not only

“when they said ‘You’re not going to get

out of it during high school years, but he

my dreams (the plans that I had made, the

better and you’re just going to need to fig-

didn’t really know God. He just knew of

hopes that I had built), but [I felt] like He

ure out how to live with this,’ I spiraled

Him and wasn’t really excited about Him.

had also stolen my identity. So I retaliated.

out of control. Suicide was on my mind

After high school, James went to Wil-

(Naturally, I think we all do that.) I would

like every minute of every day for months.

liam Jessup University where he was very

just yell at Him when no one was home

It became so heavy that it was like, Well,

active. He played soccer and he had big

and just curse Him. I felt such guilt when

maybe everyone’s better off without me.

dreams he planned to follow. He wanted

I did it, but it’s just like when you’re vent-

And I think that’s the thought that gets

to fly planes. He wanted to be a firefight-

ing to a friend or something. You have to

everybody, or thinking I’m never going

er. He wanted to be a missionary over-

let it out.”

to change.” Since the assault, James says,

G

seas. He wanted to travel the world. He

The doctors told James that he was go-

“I’ve been in pain every single day from

just wanted to do everything; he was a

ing to be better in a year, but he says that

then on—that’s thousands and thousands

big-time thrill-seeker. God had a plan too.

it was after that year marker that every-

of days. And it was also so many times of

With everything going for James, or so

thing started to get really hard. Even after

walking through being so angry at God

it seemed, the worst happened. On De-

strictly limited activity, so much therapy

and feeling like He had abandoned me. At

cember 5, 2008, three men nearly beat

laying on ice and visiting the chiropractor

one point, I didn’t want to have anything

him to death with a 4x4 in an open lot; he

so much that it nearly became his sec-

to do with Him. [I would think] God is the

barely survived that day. He didn’t know

ond home, the doctors completely shifted

one who screwed me over, He’s the one

it back then, but this is what jumpstarted

their stance. They began to tell him that

who did this to me.”

his journey in discovering who God really

he likely wouldn’t get any better, that he

James walked through so many things.

is, though it didn’t start out pretty and it

had to learn how to live that way. He says,

He dealt with so much shame; he was ad-

didn’t happen overnight.

“When you’re being told you’re never go-

dicted to shameful things. “For years,” he

James says, “There are so many things

ing to see a change, it’s like your hope is

says, “I was like, Oh my goodness, I don’t

that happen neurologically, mentally—

gone. The minute I was told [that I wasn’t]

know how to be free. I hate this; I hate my-

even spiritually or physically—from inju-

going to have [healing and that I was]

self. When you start committing shameful

ries. I was so filled with anger and rage.

going to have to live with this, it was just

acts, you turn that on yourself and you

Naturally, when you have a head injury,

[devastating]. . .having those things [that

start to hate yourself. You start to loathe

you become very angry and you experi-

I’d dreamed of doing] written off was like

yourself. And it seems like an impossible

ence an exaggeration of every emotion.

losing my identity. Funny enough, I’d gone

pit to get out of.” So overwhelmed with

31

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

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thoughts of negativity and suicide, he fi-

moments of just facing pain over and

“Christians” and the way they were treat-

nally reached his breaking point. He woke

over and over again)—feeling like God,

ing each other (and the way they were

up one morning and realized he couldn’t

am I ever going to see the end of this?—

treating him) that he equated God with

do one more day. Barely coping with all

it developed in me a dependence on His

that. But he learned that God's so different

the pain, he felt like he wasn’t even living;

strength. So many years, just minutes, of

than he thought; he realized that the day

he was just existing. And not having fig-

pushing forward and trusting Him and

he heard God's voice.

ured out the meaning of his life, he began

saying God, you’ve got a hold on me. God,

to write his final letter to his family and

you’ve gotta be my strength—that devel-

REDEMPTION

loved ones.

oped in me a dependence on Him. And I

James sees things so differently now and

But as James wrote his heart out, he

think that that helped—that brought me

believes “as long as we’re alive. . .it’s

heard a distinct voice that interrupted

courage. I was really learning how to let

wrong to say that our hearts won’t ever

him. He heard God say, “Hey, give me one

Him be my strength, learning how to let

change. And if we believe it, there is al-

more chance; you need to look at Me.”

Him be close to me.”

ways hope in God, if we have faith enough

That simple, loving intervention was all

With passion in his voice, James says,

to say ‘God, everything in me sees that

it took. At first, James almost brushed it

“Experiencing the joy of ever-moving

nothing’s going to change, and I’m a lost

off with thoughts like “Why would I do

forward and deeper into who He is and

cause.’ But I think that’s the exact place

that? God’s the one who let this happen to

knowing He’s so close and that’s all I ever

where we finally lose all sense of pride

me.” But, he was at his lowest of lows, and

need, that’s actually all I ever wanted. To

and we’re finally letting go of trying to

eventually he figured that he had noth-

know that you’re forever, indefinitely,

save ourselves…and letting go of any in-

ing left to lose. Reluctantly, he gave God a

for eternity, moving forward into deeper

clination that we can change or be what

chance. He says that he opened up a Bible

joy and deeper love with Him—there’s

we think we should be and just say, ‘God,

to a verse he’d never heard of before that

nothing more thrilling or exciting than

You make me—You make me what You

moment. He read Romans 8:18, “I con-

that. So when we face fears, it’s scary. But

want. You do what You do in my life, no

sider that our present sufferings are not

it doesn’t compare to His might and His

matter what that means.’”

worth comparing with the glory that will

power. I just feel like it’s a miracle in my

be revealed in us.” And in that moment,

life and it’s a grace.”

he realized there was something more,

From James' place of newfound freedom through real redemption, he reminds

James continues to say, “The reason

us of what really matters—no matter what

I’m able to face any of those things has

we end up facing, God is always with us. "I

James realized after a while that he had

nothing to do with my strength. I’m a

think when we just live with Him, and we

to walk through it. He says, "I had to walk

very weak man, but I know and trust that

embrace Him, [we] start having courage.

through just knowing that God—He was

God—His strength—is perfected in me.

When you know Him and you are stand-

fighting for me. I had to see that, that God

Until we become weak, we can never have

ing next to Him and you know He’s in you,

wasn’t only my Savior, but He was also as

strength enough to face anything because

you’re not scared of anything else." With

near as a friend. That was a key part: tran-

we can’t do anything on our own. We’re

a twist in life like James’, only God could

sitioning into seeing that after I’d come

nothing without Him. He is the very blood

author a story where he would come out

from that place of suicide.”

in our veins, the life in our lungs.”

on the other side not poisoned by unfor-

that he wasn’t alone anymore.

Choosing life, however, didn’t make the

James

giveness. It's through his powerful testi-

physical pain go away. But he discovered

thought and he saw things differently

mony that we all can be reminded of how

that getting to know and being close to

than he ever had before. He’d gone from

incredibly important it is to forgive. And

God was all he ever needed. “Over years

hating Him and wanting nothing to do

if God could set James completely free, so

of struggling,” says James, “(the small

with Him because he was so disgusted by

could He for you and me.

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

God

transformed

32

the

way

2019

> continued from page 27

to my hip, and I was still going and steal-

ter or food so I lost something like 40 lbs.

clear-headed, even though I hadn’t slept

ing. I would walk into a place and use the

He says, 'I was in the hole and it’s where I

much I realized who he was, and so I re-

fact that I had an injury as a diversion so

needed to be.'"

buked him and I said, 'Look man hey I’m

that I could get them for all kinds of stuff.

After awhile Ian started thinking about

sorry that you got kicked out of heaven

I was a thief and a professional liar at that

his entire life and he was plagued by all

and that you are doomed and you’ve been

time. It’s hard for me now because lying is

these voices. "The enemy was trying to

cast out of heaven.’”

something that I hate the most," he says.

hold onto me because he could feel that he

The enemy didn’t stop there. The dev-

"I beat someone up and I stole their

was losing his power over me," he says. It

il then said, “No, I’m just like you, I’m a

motorcycle and I ended up in a police

had been awhile since he felt that sense of

musician too. I love music. I made music

chase down by Watt and Elverta Avenue

hope, but the day finally came when God

and I’m the one that invented music.” Ian

because I was as high as could be. I had

did something that turned the course of

says, “I was totally blown away by it. I re-

about a 5 minute head start from the po-

things and he was sober enough to hear it

alized he was trying to reel me in and he

lice and I wrecked, and broke my body.

and allow God to move on his heart again.

was trying to show me that he and I were

My whole face was rearranged and I suf-

There was a man that came into the cell

fered tremendous injuries and I had just

next to Ian and this man began to tell him

This experience woke Ian up to the

healed after 8 months from my gunshot

a story about a Shepherd that broke his

scheme of the devil. "This is why I use my

wound.

lamb’s leg because the lamb was straying

music to glorify God now. Because when I

I busted my teeth out which really gave

from the flock. The Shepherd carried the

was younger, I was doing the devil’s work.

the devil a lot of power over me because

lamb on his shoulder until the leg started

I was promoting [unbiblical] sex, violence,

my mom always encouraged me and

to heal and then when the lamb healed

aggression, drug use, just being lost.

called me 'her beautiful boy' and now I

he had learned to stay with the flock.

I was creating a monument to being lost

had destroyed my face and my smile. I

Ian says, "The story hit home for me and

instead of a monument to helping people

thought for sure that 'That’s it, I’m done.

I started to cry and I said to the guy ‘I’m

wake up to the fact that they’re lost. But

I’ll never to be able to sing on stage again,

sorry, I don’t ever cry' and he said, ‘It’s ok

I identified with the devil admittedly and

I’ll never be able to look my mother in the

I feel it too.”’

it shook me up and I think God allowed

eyes. She’s dying, everything’s a mess.’ So

For the next twenty four hours, neither

that because God wanted to show me, 'I

I got insanely reckless and I upped the

of them could sleep so the invisible com-

had to cast Lucifer out of heaven because

ante in my crime and I started pulling

panion in the other cell began to tell him

I made him in charge of the music and he

high risk heists and ultimately it landed

stories that he could relate to. Ian says, “I

ruined it.'"

me in Sac County.”

never even saw his face. I don’t even know

Ian believes that God used this moment

Ian got arrested probably about nine-

who he was. I shook his hand through the

to show him that his gift of music is im-

teen or twenty times over the course of

slot in the door, but there was no window

portant and that if he wanted it back that

three years—booked, released, booked,

to see each other, He could have been

he can’t waste it. He said, “God saved me.”

released. He says, "I would never be in

just one of God’s angels to be honest, but

So he told the enemy “I’m saying good-

long enough to get clean. And so they fi-

something started to move in me and all

bye to you. You’ve been with me for too

nally got me because I had a warrant and I

of a sudden I just felt like I could see home

long and I’m just over it. I can’t do this

was out on bail for grand theft auto." Ian's

again. I didn’t realize that it was God that

anymore. I can’t help you and I’ve gotta

charge had been reduced, but they were

I had been missing all this time and that I

move on.

keeping him in longer and he wondered

had turned my back on Him.

I realized this is why the devil was

why. He asked, but they wouldn't tell him

Then everything went dark on me

drawn to me and working on my heart be-

why. Ian says, "It was like God didn’t want

again and right when I started feeling

cause (A) he didn’t want me to fulfill what

me to know, He wanted me in the dark.”

that hope, that guy got moved and I didn’t

God had planned for me and (B) he was

He was in TSEP (total separation) be-

have anybody on any side of me. Satan

drawn to me because I almost felt sorry

cause he beat up his cell mate for robbing

was trying to get me alone again and I

for him, which is crazy.”

someone’s house that he knew. "I was in

literally met the presence of the devil."

Fast forward a few days later, the night

a dark room on the 8th floor all alone

Ian describes this spirit that harassed

before Ian got put back in general popu-

and I was only allowed out once a week

him over the next few days and he says,

lation, he was sitting on the bottom bunk

to shower and make a phone call. When I

“I was getting maybe 15 minutes of sleep

with his back against the wall and he was

was up there I had this moment and had

after the eleven or twelve days of detox,

reading a Scripture in Corinthians that he

been up for maybe eleven or twelve days

just small increments, so I wasn't totally

says, “said something like—although the

because when you’re detoxing from up-

back to normal. But there was this pres-

man outside you is passing away rejoice

pers and downers and steroids, it’s insan-

ence of an angry, upset child and he told

because the man inside you is being re-

ity. I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t see straight

me his name was Morning Star, and sud-

newed’ and it hit him like a ton of bricks.”

and I was vomiting and couldn’t take wa-

denly I realized what was going on. I was

“All of a sudden I saw this figure and it

> continued on page 39

33

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+ IAN LOVELESS

so much alike—it was a trip."

+ RISK TAKER

PHOTO BY JAKOB OWENS

FAMILY MATTERS TO THE FATHER

By Nissi Guiao | Interviewed by Jenene Stafford

e recently sat down with

The one thing that is proven true is that,

in one way or another.) These experienc-

John and Anna Mix, Califor-

whether we admit it or not, we all long to

es may have taught us a bit about our hu-

nia Tent Coordinators for

be loved and to be whole—to be part of

manity, however, it is not Kingdom reali-

Awaken The Dawn, Califor-

something bigger than ourselves—to be

ty. No matter what we’ve gone through or

nia. We found their passion and perspec-

part of a happy family. Fortunately, this

how far we may have pushed people away

tive of the Father’s heart so powerful that

is what the Father had planned for us

(to try to protect ourselves), we were nev-

it needs to be shared. Family holds a pow-

all along. Since day one, He had unity in

er called to be independent and accom-

er unlike any other. When division dies

mind. He had His family in mind along

plish things on our own. The Trinity is

and love is at the core, nothing can break

with a clear picture of what that would

even our best example of that. The Father,

the bond of a close-knit family.

really look like. Because truly, family was

Son and Holy Spirit all work together in

His big idea. And to be one, big, united,

beautiful unity. They are individuals, yet

FAMILY DYNAMICS

powerful, unconditionally loving family—

they are one in the same. They hold the

Each family is different. All across the

it’s purely His heart for all of humanity.

same heart and carry the same vision, yet

world, there are various kinds of fami-

Through our own experiences, we’ve

they have different roles in the family.

ly dynamics, so many different ways of

unfortunately witnessed or endured dys-

To think that we are better off without

living and getting along (or not at all).

function. (I’m sure we can all attest to that

each other is a lie from the pits of hell.

W

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

34

2019

We are getting to a place where the truth

ing as the sons and daughters of our lov-

ly begins to fall away because once we

outweighs the deceit that for a while has

ing Father. We’ve always had a seat at

determine to look at each other the way

blurred our vision. Instead of rivalry

His right hand because of Jesus. We’ve

Jesus sees us, the way the Father sees us,

among denominations or technicalities

always been sons and daughters since

we don’t see that stuff anymore. We don’t

that simply don’t matter (a.k.a. religion),

we accepted Him, but it doesn’t mean

see the divisions and the separators any-

we are living in a time where family is pri-

we automatically started living like it.

more—we see what makes us one. So that

ority. Love, the Father’s love, is our num-

We may not be physically dead, but for

other stuff, it will become irrelevant nat-

ber one priority and immediate forgive-

too long, we’ve been spiritually dead. And

urally, I think, as we continue to choose

ness is non-negotiable (no more excuses).

with it, our hope and idea of a healthy,

each other in love. In Him. In Christ, not

thriving family has since been dead with

just love.”

“We’re seeing a shift from individual movements to the movement of sons— really, the Body of Christ, growing and moving together.”

us. The best thing, and our reality, is

“‘Blood is thicker than water,’ says

that our Father is patient and kind. He

John, “but love of the Father, the love of

stays faithful and hopeful that we would

Jesus—the Spirit—is thicker than blood.

mature, that we would wake up to Him,

We’re grafted in, we’re adopted in. We are

by His grace and design. John says, “My

received, we are loved, we are forgiven.

understanding of the Father’s heart is

This is the whole “coming together” for

always redemption and transformation.

us. It looks like sons and daughters—ma-

Because to take something away or to kill

ture—carrying the gifts and doing it with

something is easy. To give life is really

grace, doing it with love, doing it with

only in the Father’s purview. To create or

power…"

to give the breath of life—to reanimate, to

It is going to take a movement for things

give new life and, of course, raising the

to shift in our culture, and it starts with

dead—those are all trademarks of a loving

us. We can’t teach what we don’t know;

Father and a Kingdom that has the power

we can’t expect to reproduce who we ar-

“When [God] created us,” says Anna,

in the name of Jesus and the creativity

en’t. The way John describes his children’s

“He created us as His family. And then

to even imagine those things, and then

bond paints the perfect picture for us to

we act like orphans all the time, but re-

to bring those imaginations to fruition.”

follow. “They have different personalities and they rub [against] each other. But at

ally we’re coming back to who we were made to be. . .and our authority and place

WHAT REALLY MATTERS–UNITY

the end of the day, they’re family. They’re

in that. We’re seeing a shift from individu-

“The true, mega church is not in any one

brothers and sisters and they love each

al movements to the movement of sons—

building, or in a stadium or auditorium

other with all their hearts. They have to

really, the Body of Christ, growing and

or colosseum,” says John. “The true, mega

give up a little of themselves. They have

moving together. And it’s not looking like

church is global. And we’re outside the

to set aside some of their angst, some of

individual, little sign-posts anymore. It’s

walls. Anywhere we are that [God] is,

their pet peeves or whatever. Hopefully

the collective. I think all of us, to a certain

that’s the [true, mega church]. We’re re-

that comes naturally, to be in each others

degree, somewhat run alone in things that

alizing that as family, there are these par-

presence and just love on each other.”

God’s given us to do. And so, we’ve done

allel streams that’ve been running. And

“With man this is impossible, but not with

our best—we’ve given our best. And then

when you’re parallel, you don’t neces-

God; all things are possible with God”

we’ve realized, we’ve gotten to a point

sarily touch or make contact or have any

(Mark 10:27) and with Him, we can step

where we’re like, I can’t—I don’t want to

realization of the stream that’s just over

up, come together, beautifully unified. We

do this by myself. My heart is for the body.

the ridge next to you (or what have you),

can learn to love and be loved as the fami-

My heart is to run with my brothers and

but these streams are beginning to form a

ly that He has always purely desired.

my sisters. It’s to be joined. It’s to be fam-

confluence; and some people have called

ily. It’s to really fulfill the Father’s heart.”

it ‘blended waters.’ When you have these different waters, when you have multiple

MATURING

water sources, and you blend them to-

It is going to take a maturing process to

gether and you treat them properly and

fulfill the Father’s heart and become the

distribute them into the system, you’re

family we were always meant to be. Just

gonna get better quality water than from

as it takes years for children to grow

any one source.”

up and mature before they can really

Now that the walls are falling in our

be trusted with responsibility, so it has

hearts, we can see the man-made barriers

been years of us fighting with others

collapsing all around. Speaking on what

and ourselves, growing up and matur-

really matters, Anna says, “Stuff natural-

35

“We don’t see the divisions and the separators anymore—we see what makes us one.”

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Don't Be Afraid of the Hallway

by Sonia Hassey

Each hallway in life brings a new level of transformation and helps us trust that God is in control. This is the place where we learn to totally let go of doing things our own way because even in our blindness we know His ways and purpose are much higher than ours.

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

?

hanksgiving Day 2018 has arrived and I

had just walked into a house full of people

was feeling excited because my daugh-

and warm food ready to begin a Thanks-

ters were in town. Even though they de-

giving dinner. But like many times be-

cided to be with their father, Pat, for the

fore, it was abruptly interrupted by Pat's

holiday since he lives alone, thankfully I will still get

sudden illness. Immediately, the doctors

to see them often. Upon arrival to my mother’s house,

knew he had a stroke and rushed him to

I received a phone call from my oldest daughter. She

the emergency and got him a room. With-

told me that her dad was drooling and couldn’t speak;

in a thirty minute period, he was unable

they had just sat at the table ready to eat dinner. I

to speak and barely walking. I arrived

immediately told her to call the ambulance, but he

soon after and Pat gave me the look that

insisted that she drive him to the hospital (it was a

spoke volumes. It was like,”Here we go

good thing that the hospital was five minutes away.) I

again." It broke my heart because he has

T

36

2019

been through at least five life-threatening

I began to really feel compassion for ev-

It still makes me sad when I think about

situations before. It's like a weird nostal-

erything that he has been through, even

that. These are all unexpected situations

gia where life goes on and then suddenly

though he walked away from me and

in life that can happen where you have no

it comes to a halt. It feels like life is frozen

the girls. I had no idea what God was

idea of the outcome. All I can say is in that

at that moment in time and nothing else

doing in this situation. I just knew that I

space of not knowing is where God shined

matters except to be present and truly

couldn't stay angry at him. He was gone

His light on me the most and showed me

listen to what is happening. It’s then that

for a year when I finally had the nerve to

the way, as long as I kept my eye on Him.

all that matters is love and support at the

tell him that, if he wasn't going to return,

And so here we are—me and Pat—re-

deepest level. Honestly, nothing else mat-

we should get divorced. He told me that

united again in the spirit of forgiveness

ters in the world than being present.

he was not ready to come back, so I fol-

and God's love. Since his first stroke on

Since then, Pat has had two more brain

lowed through and filed. It was so devas-

Thanksgiving Day, he almost fully recov-

surgeries which has kept him in the hos-

tating to actually go through the process

ered in his speech and in his mobility.

pital for weeks at a time and has taken

of divorce. I never thought in a million

Unfortunately, things took another turn

months to recover. Meningitis followed

years that I would experience this level of

on Christmas Eve when he experienced a

his last brain surgery which damaged

pain. For a long while after the divorce,

second stroke where he became unable to

a quarter of his scull. This brought him

we barely exchanged words. I believe it

speak again. I do visit him on a regular ba-

to death's door, but God intervened and

left us both broken and hurt, and we left

sis, but I thank God that He has brought us

spared his life. The doctors gave him an

it at that. I prayed for God to help me to

full circle to bring healing from our hurt.

artificial scull and he eventually healed

forgive him for the divorce and how that

I don't know what tomorrow holds, but

from that downfall. Seizures became a

process went, but I'm not quite sure if I

I do know that God is holding it and that

commonplace for him and that was scary

really did. I just wanted to move on with

He is my anchor. It’s a promise from God

because we never knew when they would

my life at that point.

that no one can take away from me. God’s

occur again; they have become weekly

Once the church family knew that we

pure love is reassurance that He will nev-

episodes. Unfortunately, Pat also started

got divorced, they distanced themselves

er leave me, or forsake me. God's faithful-

having heart problems and because of

from us. I am talking about friends that

ness is so real to me and that's what keeps

it, he had to have surgery to correct his

we have had for years that have complete-

my head up; no man can ever give me the

heart rate. It was beating twice as a nor-

ly cut themselves off from us. It hurt both

assurance that God gives. Life is full of un-

mal heart rate which left him bedridden

me and Pat deeply. We didn't understand

certainty, but life with God is certainly full

and exhausted most of the time.

because we truly needed our friends the

of hope.

After years of illness interruptions, he

most at that time, but we were left alone

We all go through seasons of suffering,

finally decided to retire from his office

and decided to move on to different

uncertainty, loneliness, scarcity and often

job. That was no doubt the best decision

churches where no one knew about our

times they bring us fear or worry and add-

he could've made at the time.

past.

ed stress. In addition, we have happy mo-

But the

biggest blow for me was that one day he

God has used Pat’s illness to grow me

ments and seasons of peace and joy which

came to me and told me that he wanted to

personally and reveal Himself to me

are moments to cherish forever and to be

get an apartment, essentially to live alone.

in such a way that I no longer freak out

very grateful for. Life has so many ups

I was devastated. For two years prior, he

when life-threatening situations happen. I

and downs indeed, and as we get older we

kept telling me that he wanted to live

just know that these life interruptions (es-

realize that seasons don't last forever. We

alone, that he was better off alone. I never

pecially the most recent) have happened

keep moving into a new season. But this

thought that he would actually do it, but

with good reason. I brace myself and

is the hall way of life, it's where we grow.

two weeks after he told me, he left—just

know that God is in total control. The road

So what is God really showing us in this

like that! With no time to process, I was

of uncertainty is one my daughters and

world of constant change and uncertain-

alone with the girls. I thought, “How could

Pat and I, of course, are familiar with. It

ty? My personal experience in life has giv-

he do this to us? We have been by his side

has been twenty years to the month now

en me the answers that I needed to to en-

the whole time.”

since Pat was diagnosed with stage four

dure the the difficult times and good times

I remember asking God what I should

cancer. God has spared his life; however,

as well. I can honestly say that I have had

do at that time of uncertainty, and I will

since then he has been partially disabled.

my share of pain and suffering in life.

never forget what He told me. He spoke

Our lives as a family have completely

When I was younger, like anyone else, I

to my heart and said to love him (Pat)

shifted and have been turned upside

did everything I could to run from suffer-

anyway, and to keep my heart from get-

down. We’ve never been the same since

ing—I did not want to feel pain at all. I just

ting bitter. So I began to pray for him and

he was first diagnosed.

wanted to feel safe and I would ask God to

37

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please make the pain quickly go away. I never real-

God's compelling love gets revealed to us in the

ized that at the time God had a plan for every suffer-

most beautiful way that words cannot describe. We

ing and that there was room for growth and charac-

find ourselves in the place of peace within the eye

ter to be built during these times. Now, I realize that

of the storm. The ever surpassing peace that says “It

God had a purpose in every part of my life, whether it

is well with my soul.” Then God has the freedom to

be through suffering or through happiness.

remove everything that gets in in way of His glory

One of the key principles that God has shown me

being revealed in us. Don't be afraid of the hallway

throughout my journeys is that we are all spiritu-

experience; it's the place where you feel God holding

ally connected as human beings. We affect one an-

you the tightest and guiding you every step of the way

other through love or pain. And when God is doing

even when it doesn't make sense.

a mighty work in our lives, He is also dealing with

Each hallway experience in life brings a new lev-

those around us to bring healing in areas of our lives

el of transformation. Knowing that God is in control

that are needed. I have so many amazing stories to

is what continues to light the path. You must have

share how God used my hallway experiences to draw

faith to believe that God is in control of every circum-

others to a healing process. I believe we have all

stance in your life. You must decide that this is the

made the mistake of begging God to remove the pain

place where you totally let go of doing things your

quickly so we can move on with our lives, but we can

own way; His ways are much higher and with better

also miss out on what we are supposed to learn in

purpose.

the process. This is the place I call the hallway experi-

Here I am in the hallway again. At first it's feeling

ence. It's where you can't see what's right in front of

the shock of “What now?” But then I remember it's

you, but in the hallway is where God is speaking the

okay and I pray, “God what are to revealing to me this

loudest and where we can listen and see things in a

time?" Because I let God into the hallway, I now un-

new dimension, where ego is lifted from the circum-

derstand His bigger plan even in this recent situation

stance, and where humility dwells. This is the place

with Pat's illness. It’s beyond incredible to see how He

where we have allowed God to take free reign in our

brought healing of forgiveness back into our lives in a

uncertainty and, lo and behold, things look so differ-

way that only He can accomplish. And now I can say

ent from what we have ever imagined. This is the

that I thank God for all the hallways in my life.

place where we are transforming into His image. It's

I’m counting them all joy because it has brought

the place where we are positioned to receive God's

wholeness and healing and growth in my life like no

love with humility and as broken spirits. It's like we

other. God is a big God working out every detail in

can almost feel the healing balm over our entire be-

our lives. He reveals His purpose and healing to us so

ing as we remain still in that moment in time.

we can be positioned and used for His glory. It is well

In the hallways experiences, God has spoken to

with my soul in the hallway. Pat is now in a nursing

me in dreams that gave me direction in what was

home learning how to speak again. He has mentioned

to come next in my life. He has also spoken with so

to me how frustrating all his setbacks have been and

much clarity that it took fear away instantly. He has

that he's tired, but all I can do is be there for him and

danced with me, which is one of the most beautiful

assure him that God is in control. And for me, well,

experiences I have ever had. I have felt angels carry

yes I will have to admit that this is hard and tiring,

me off my feet and lighten my burden. He has once

but there is a deep knowing inside of me that says

spoke audibly to me when I was literally in a dark

God is in it all and no matter what hallway I find my-

hallway. He has specifically given me direction in a

self in, that truth is my resting place.

life-threatening situation, that strengthened me the moment I prayed. I have physically felt a harness over my body as a protection. All of these experi-

Sonia Hassey is the founder of Women Inspired Network and Destiny Women Global Leadership Program. Her new book "Butt Naked Leadership" is available for free at www.ButtNakedLeadership.com

ences have happened during the darkest (hallway) moments of my life—not knowing from one day to another what life would look like, sometimes minute by minute.

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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2019

> continued from page 33

was Christ. He was right there. He didn’t

So I plead out and God just started

strong again his mom died, he ruptured a

have long hair or anything like that, but

giving me my music back." All of Ian’s

disc in his back and was crippled again—

it was Jesus.” He says, “Jesus just started

instruments were gone to drugs or sto-

for a short time—spiritually, mentally and

weeping and I asked Him why he was

len and he had given up on singing com-

physically. "I fell into a bottle really hard

weeping and Jesus said, ‘Because you’re

pletely. “When I was in there I was almost

for about two months at the beginning of

finally coming home.’”

afraid of it because of the reality of what I

last year and then I pulled up out of that

In tears, Ian shared with me that in that

learned from talking to the devil. But God

nose dive and I was completely renewed

moment he realized how bad that he had

started giving me these melodies and I

by God again." After that is when Ian

hurt his Father. “That’s what finally woke

could hear. Suddenly I could arrange an

wrote the rest of the material for Almost

me up,” he says. "I just realized how hard

entire symphony in my head. And that’s

Sober and that’s when he started to per-

I hurt Jesus and I made a promise that I

a skill that I have now. I can literally see

form in Nashville.

am not going into hurt him anymore.

the notes on a piano, on a guitar, and hear

But, Ian's journey to stop relying on

I got transferred to Tracy facility. But

the drums and I wrote five of the songs

anything other than God took time and

I realized that God was preparing me to

that are going to be on this album Almost

Ian would still drink alcohol because he

do His work and I would cry on a daily

Sober." The album has a double meaning

was nervous to go connect and to be hon-

basis. I would have a conversation with

because Ian is almost sober (but it’s been

est and vulnerable with people. His com-

an inmate that was doing life and some-

a struggle), but now he has the purpose

mitment to being honest with his music

how I would help him find hope even

to remain sober. God has fulfilled every-

is why he considers his music to be folk­.

when I felt so broken inside. It just started

thing He promised to me and it was time

"Because I just bare bones go out there

to empower me, and I still had

and tell my story because I

the doubt, but as I pushed on,

want to be honest now, I don’t

back. I was fighting my case and I thought for sure I could win this. The night before court, I wanted to get some sleep dammit but God woke me up at 3:30 in the morning. He gave me a song called 'Violent Parade.'"

God told Ian that night, “I have something for you but you have to go plead out and take what they give you." But Ian still woke up thinking he could fight it, but Jesus convicted him through his little brother. “As soon as I stepped into court, I saw my little brother and I

“But God started giving me these melodies and I could hear. Suddenly I could arrange an entire symphony in my head. And that's a skill I have now."

caused a lot of problems for

only way you can get anything done—the truth really does set you free."

He still has days where he struggles with self doubt, and reminds himself "No matter what I accomplish I need to glorify God." He is empowered again and says, "It doesn’t matter how broken I am because that’s the reason I can help people. That's my testimony—my witness, is me. I’m the living, walking testimony."

Jesus told Ian years ago that He had a something great planned for him, but that it

him. He got handcuffed because of it, all kinds of grief I brought him, be-

want to lie anymore. That’s the

wouldn’t be easy and Ian says, to hold up my end of the bargain," he says.

“I had no idea what that meant. No mat-

cause I used his name. His eyes got so sad

When Ian got out of jail, he realized

ter how much I put myself down or lis-

because I was all buffed and in orange

he needed to focus on his own recovery,

tened to the enemy, or told myself I wasn’t

and I just knew I had to plead out.”

but he still struggled with alcohol for a lit-

worth anything, people flocked to me. I’m

Ian asked the public defender if he

tle while and believes it was a reminder

just finally getting to the point that I can

could get permission from the judge to

from those demons that would ultimately

believe it."

speak and the judge allowed it. He looked

strengthen him.

Through this journey of sobriety and

at his little brother and the Judge and he

He went to Nashville and got back in

making his way out of darkness into the

said, "I haven’t absolutely done every-

touch with his guitar player, Matthew.

Light, Ian recalls as a child his mom tell-

thing that I’m charged of, but I can tell

God sent another angel his way—Mat-

ing him, “God told me that you would

you this much, I’ve done worse. I did it all.

thew's dad, Paul. He was a pastor and he

bring a nation to God. You were going to

I want to plead out. I’ll sign the papers,

mentored and challenged Ian for 2 years

use your music, your glorious voice, to

I’ll take whatever you guys give me, I just

to have self control.

bring people closer to God.” Never doubt

want to be better.

About the time Ian started to feel

39

the prayers of a mother.

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LIVING STONES W

by Sandi Padilla

ho could forget a day like

trip would be like a spiritual treasure

we went. During our prayer time I began

this one? It was hot and

hunt, and it turned out to be exactly that

to hum a melody. It grew stronger until

humid on July 15, 2016 and

and so much more.

the words of a spontaneous worship song

I was standing in line at the

Earlier that morning in our hotel

broke outâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x153;Come and heal our land, O

National Archives in Washington, D.C.

before we headed out, the three of us had

Lord we pray; heal our hearts and souls

with my two friends Jenene Stafford and

prayed that God would help us be open

we pray; forgive our sins and make us

Sue Overholser. I knew that going on this

and show His love to people wherever

whole; lead us to Your grace; we pray for

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

40

2019

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord and the people He has chosen for His own inheritance.” Psalm 133:12 those who do not know, they have not

Jefferson Memorial ignited my mind and

in Washington, D.C., we see the Bride of

heard Your voice; but speak Your Word

heart in several new ways. God revealed

Christ rising up and shining brilliantly in

and move through us along this narrow

to me more about His providence and

these times and it’s a thrill to witness it.

way; let Your glory shine, let Your glory

plan for our nation through revealing the

shine, let Your love pour through us; take

devout faith of our founding fathers. As I

to Washington, D.C. was allowing the

our hands and feet and everything will

read what the great leaders of our nation

Holy Spirit to shine some spiritual light

light Your kingdom’s way; Holy Spirit

wrote—now etched in stone pillars and

on some of the symbols created at the

come and lead us to the everlasting

monuments all over Washington, D.C.—it

time our nation was born. For example,

stream. Amen!” Jenene asked if I had just

reminded me of Joshua and how by faith

the Great Seal of the United States, which

made the song up, and I said that I had.

he led the children of Israel into the

is used on thousands of documents every

It actually took me by surprise because it

Promised Land. “And Joshua wrote these

year, has the majestic bald eagle holding

was melodic and sounded like a hymn. It

words in the book of the law of God and

a banner and says, “E Pluribus Unum.”

stirred us so much that we thanked the

took a great stone and set it up there

From start to finish the seal was carefully

Lord for singing over us—an anthem of

under an oak that was by the sanctuary

and strategically designed. The phrase

hope and healing for our nation (Zepha-

of the Lord. And Joshua said unto all the

in Latin means “Out of many, ONE” and

niah 3:17).

people, 'Behold the stone' this shall be a

it not only correlates to the governmen-

witness unto us for it has heard all the

tal vision that the thirteen colonies be

slowly inched forward and we comment-

words of the Lord which he spoke to us.

united, but also corresponds to Deuter-

ed to each other how much we craved to

It shall be therefore a witness unto you

onomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our

be inside the large, stone building where

lest you deny your God” (Joshua 24:25).

God, the Lord is ONE.” When you add up

we would be much cooler. As we entered

When I thought about this “witness

the thirteen radiant stars in the Great

through the doors, our eyes adjusted to

stone” it called to mind what the prophet

Seal symbolizing Divine providence and

the dimly lit room. Now we were just a

Isaiah foretold about the coming of Jesus,

thirteen red and white stripes on the

few feet away from what we were wait-

the Messiah. “So this is what the Lord

shield representing their reliance on the

ing to see: The Constitution of the United

GOD says: 'See, I lay a stone in Zion, a

protection of God you have the number

States of America. We moved towards

tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a

twenty-six (13+13=26). The number twen-

the glass where the documents were

sure foundation; the one who believes

ty-six (26) is the Tetragrammaton—the

held. “We the people of the United States,

will never be shaken. I will make justice

Hebrew name of God transliterated in

in Order to form a more perfect Union,

the measuring line and righteousness the

four letters as YHWH. (If by chance you

establish Justice, ensure domestic Tran-

level'” (Isaiah 28:16-17).

doubt the connection between the sym-

The line at the National Archives

Part of my “treasure hunt” on the trip

quility, provide for the common defense,

It’s incredible to realize that the new

bols on the Great Seal and the Hebrew,

promote the general Welfare, and secure

covenant put into place by the sacrificial

just take a look at the cloud of stars on

the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and

atonement of Jesus Christ means that we

the seal and notice that they form the

our Posterity, do ordain and establish

are “living stones” that God is building

Star of David!) Coming to this realization

this Constitution for the United States of

into his spiritual temple (1 Peter 2:5).

made me so thankful for the heritage of

America.” Reading these powerful words

Later as Jenene and I went to the Jeffer-

faith we have been given in the United

to establish the law of the land and the

son Memorial and read the prayers and

States of America. I hope and pray God

four pillars of freedom for our nation

petitions on the prayer scroll written by

will continue to lead and guide us, and

was a profoundly moving experience.

friends and leaders from Sacramento we

that His banner over us will be LOVE. As

(If you’ve never had the chance to visit

proclaimed freedom, healing and revival-

the Psalmist David sang, “Blessed is the

Washington, D.C. I really hope you will

for our region and our nation. From the

nation whose God is the Lord!”

get the chance some day!)

seeds of prayer in the Sacramento Peace

Visiting the National Archives and the

Garden to 24-7 worship at David’s tent

41

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LISTENING BEYOND THE NOISE

Photo by Nicolai Berntsein

+ BY CAROLYN OLIVEIRA

YOU SEE, MY LAST NAME GROWING UP WAS BERNSTEIN. I WAS ADOPTED AND BROUGHT UP IN A VERY STRICT, JEWISH HOME. I MEAN STRICT. I WAS SURROUNDED BY A LOT OF SHAME AND GUILT. SO WHEN I FIRST WENT TO CHURCH, I HAVE TO TELL YOU, I LITERALLY FELT IN ANY SECOND A THUNDER BOLT WAS GOING TO COME OUT FROM THE HEAVENS AND SMITE ME RIGHT THERE. IF MY PARENTS FOUND OUT THAT I WENT TO CHURCH, MY RELATIVES, THE PEOPLE IN MY COMMUNITY, I AM A TRAITOR. THAT'S MY "STORY.

T

here seems to be a moment or mo-

with travel, a song or a deep, soulful conversation. Depending on the noise

ment’s in people’s life where the

level in your heart and mind, it is the astounding gift we are given to where we

‘world’ as you know it becomes

are able hear what is meant to be heard in the moment, the lesson, the direc-

something else. You see the world in

tion—listening or watching with grace in our hearts.

a different light; life just feels different. It is ex-

Physiologically, one can experience light when feeling loved and––I always

traordinary how your mind and heart transform

imagine a young woman in an old movie clutching a bouquet of spring flowers

into seeing the world differently, sometimes in an

gazing into the horizon. The adverse image, of course, when one feels pain—

instant. These pivotal moments can define you, or

the visual of one clutching their chest in the darkness. We will all go through

even can re-define you. This can look like so many

the light and the dark in our lives, the human struggle and wrestle against the

different things: falling in love, or it could be the

‘enemies.’

loss of a loved one unexpectedly, or when one ex-

Consider for a moment that this struggle, the ‘battle,' that is “…. occurring in

periences betrayal. Transformation can even start

the visible, physical world is directly connected to the wrestling match being

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

42

2019

waged in the invisible, spir-

my first love, the man I compared all men to, but the blinders

Priscilla Shirer writes, “Tactics

itual world,” Priscilla Shirer

were then removed to whom he actually was, and who my

refers to deceptive strategies.

writes in her Bible study, "The

mother and my brother are. As my father passed away that

Schemes. Dirty tricks.” That “he

Armor of God."

day in November, the dreams, of having a family that cared

wants to lead you into sin so that

for me, a family that included me, wanted to be a part of my

fellowship is broken between you

life and my families’ lives, were shattered.

and God you and the One who

Priscilla continues to write, that “your real enemy, ‘the devil,’ wants you to ignore the

I fell into the darkness. My darkness is loneliness, despite

provides your true power and

spiritual reality behind the

the love of my husband and my kids and friends. My darkness

strength. Then weakened and

physical one. Because as long

has evil voices and words, that are believable and destructive.

vulnerable, you’ll be susceptible

as you are focused on what

The enemy thrived in me, ate my insides and blackened my

to his plans to destroy you.”

you can see with your physi-

heart.

In the physical world, due to

cal eyes, he can continue

my "story" I believed that

to run rampant under-

I was never good enough;

neath the surface. The

that if I worked harder, if I

more you disregard him,

distracted myself with my

the more damage he is free to do.”

The

effects

of

the

struggle and fight against the darkness show up in our

lives

everyday––it

could be by something you read, or watched on television. It could be what you hear someone say, that ‘story’ that keeps coming up in your life to reinforce some other ‘thing’

that

Personally,

happened.

I

imagined

that when I started my journey in walking with Jesus, I would magically be armed with some sort of power to keep me from the ‘assaults of the enemy.’ I slowly learned

“YOUR REAL ENEMY 'THE DEVIL' WANTS YOU TO IGNORE THE

busy-ness, I would be good enough. And only then would my parents and world accept me. In the spiritual world, the

SPIRITUAL REALITY BEHIND

enemy will continue to tell

THE PHYSICAL ONE. BECAUSE

so I don’t stop to listen to

AS LONG AS YOU ARE FOCUSED ON WHAT YOU CAN SEE WITH YOUR PHYSICAL EYES, HE CAN CONTINUE TO RUN RAMPANT UNDERNEATH THE SURFACE. ”

me that I'm not good enough Jesus who reminds me of the truth that "I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:13).

In today’s world, we have an even larger fight with the enemy. It is no mystery that the noise is even louder with today’s

technology

telling

us who we should be, what our deficiencies are, how we should think, what we should eat, what we should accept.

Principles

and

values

are

being questioned every day,

that my walk needed to

thereby creating multitudes

be daily, sometimes, mul-

of questions and confusion

tiple times a day when I

on who we are and what we

was particularly fraught with

"And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel

stand for as individuals.

darkness––that the ‘ask’ and

of light" (2 Cor 11:14 NIV). I read this, and I started listening.

The struggle is real; the temp-

prayer simply wasn’t enough.

The voices responding to my cries were quiet at first, soft and

tations are all around us and

It took trust and conscious

slow. As my quiet time increased, the voices became louder,

it's a constant challenge learn-

work of ‘letting go,’ and most

and I heard. And I listened.

ing to turn off the noise, lest we

important—listening to the

Don’t get me wrong, the reality is I only started listening be-

miss something or become unin-

spiritual reality behind the

cause I wasn’t ready to leave this earth yet. I didn’t see bright

formed. I pray you all find your

‘story’ of what was happening

lights and Jesus didn’t come to me in a dream, as pretty as that

quiet, use the armor God gave

in this realm.

might be. But when noticing the cold darkness slowly coming

you so you can listen beyond the

When my father passed

again, my mantra whispering at first: "In God I live and breathe

noise. M

away a year ago, this was the

and move my being. I am a child of the most high God." This has

Carolyn Oliveira is a

re-defining of who I was. The

become my armor, my shield. And saved my life. “Be strong

wedding and events

proverbial rug was pulled out

in the Lord and in the strength of His might” so we can “stand

planner and lives in

from under me. I not only lost

against the tactics of the devil” (Eph. 6:10).

43

Folsom, California.

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PIERCING THE DARKNESS Living Life To Light The World

By Jeff Wittmer

+ KING MAKER

T

he match head is slowly

it. When we can do neither, existential

dragged along the striking sur-

dread and existential anxiety fill the

face. The sand and powdered

minds and souls of humanity. We need

glass create friction and heat,

meaning most during times of adversity.

which is just enough to convert some of

It is in those moments that you choose

the red phosphorous to white phospho-

between coping or surviving and grow-

rus—a chemical so volatile that it ignites

ing as a person.

in the air. The heat breaks down the

a word or condition where something,

thereby releasing oxygen that serves as

like a disease, is at a turning point.

fuel for the fire. The oxygen then com-

Someone begins to heal, or they begin to

bines with sulfur and together keep the

die. The word crisis derives from Latin

flame burning.

meaning “decision,” or from Greek krisis,

The flickering light cuts through the thick darkness without apology. All the

Photo by Lai Yaoqui

meaning to decide.

If we truly are at a cultural crisis point,

darkness in a room cannot extinguish

we have a decision to make—how then

the influence of even the smallest flame

shall we live? Will we be a light of under-

that chooses to shine. In the words of

standing and hope, or will we continue

John, the Apostle in the Gospel of John,

to passively sit in the gross darkness

referring to Jesus, “And this Living Ex-

adjusting our eyesight? Many, no longer

pression is the Light that bursts through

satisfied self-medicating in their apathy,

gloom—the Light that darkness could not

are stirred in their hearts and are begin-

diminish!” (John 1:5 TPT).

ning to move against the cultural norms

We are living in a day many would

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

Are we at a cultural crisis point? Crisis,

potassium chlorate in the match head,

define as dark. Gloom hangs over the

of this present Post-Modern age.

As I wrote in a previous article, “A New

world like a thick fog rolling in at dusk.

Normal,” I referenced a New Renais-

Many, navigating their existential crisis,

sance emerging that will be a bridge

wonder if there is any purpose to living.

leading humanity out of the isolation and

As humans, we seek meaning for our

darkness of the Modern Age and into a

lives. When we can't find it, we create

Golden Age of harmony, prosperity, and

44

2019

community. A movement that seeks

God’s will is not a map, but rather,

impossible and soon, they were turn-

to connect and equip artists, entre-

it’s a match. It ignites the fire within

ing dreams into reality. His became a

preneurs and other creatives with

your heart and from that fire, lights

movement of dreamers and vision-

theologians and preachers because

the path before you. You can choose

aries called and compelled to dream

they believe creativity and faith

to live with your light on pilot, or you

of a better world. Jesus helped them

are designed by God to be practiced

can develop the power of a focused

understand they could be influencers,

together. I believe this may have been

life.

like light, piercing the darkness.

Focus allows you to live a life of full

We are attracted to dancing flames

as “Pray that the Father’s will be done

intensity, to release your light to the

in a fireplace. We draw near, mes-

on earth as it is in Heaven.”

world. A focused life allows all your

merized and warmed in its presence.

passion to fuel the momentum in a

So too, the human heart is captivated

values of Heaven, such as honor, love,

singular direction. Focus is almost

and inspired when touched by the

justice, and integrity, moved power-

countercultural today. There will be

extravagant love from the gener-

fully against the grain of selfishness,

friction and heat when moving in an

ous nature of God. One thing we

apathy, corruption, and dishonesty?

opposite direction. Some will want

know from the life of Jesus, is God

What would it look like to express

you to dial down your intensity. Oth-

is scandalously forgiving; His mercy

love for the broken in a radical, ex-

ers will find their inspiration in the

burns as it destroys shame. His love

travagant and sacrificial way, where

heat of your fire.

is so unconditional, you're free to be

What would it look like if the

people cared for the disadvantaged

The word focus comes from a Latin

joyfully you!

and disenfranchised as a personal

word meaning “hearth” or "fireplace,”

commitment?

in other words, the burning center.

and wisdom. The wise give hope and

Light often signifies understanding

The first Renaissance arose out of

The hotter your burning center, the

those who give the greatest hope, will

the horrific ashes of the Black Plague.

more focused you become; and the

have the greatest influence. Like the

The second Renaissance is arising out

more you will shine. One person with

ancient Sons of Issachar, discerning

of the ashes of a horrific existential

passion is greater than the passive

the Times, we need people of wisdom

crisis of meaninglessness, purpose-

force of ninety-nine with only a casu-

giving light to illumine the path and

lessness, and depression that so often

al interest.

guiding direction in the emerging

characterizes our modern culture.

Eric Hoffer observed, “When peo-

Jesus said to His followers, “Your lives light up the world. Let others see

New Renaissance.

We live in a day of comparison,

ple are free to do as they please, they

your light from a distance, for how

judging the value of our lives by the

usually imitate each other.” Romans

can you hide a city that stands on a

number of followers on Instagram or

12:2 in the Living Bible Translation

hilltop? And who would light a lamp

Twitter. This of course speaks to our

cautions, “Don’t copy the behavior

and then hide it in an obscure place?

need for significance. But truly, if you

and customs of this world, but be

Instead, it’s placed where everyone

want to be a star, then poke holes in

a new and different person with a

in the house can benefit from its

someone’s darkness and shine. Com-

fresh newness in all you do and think.

light. So, don’t hide your light! Let it

parison can make you dial down your

Then you will learn from your own

shine brightly before others, so that

light or it make you want to stand up

experience how His ways will really

the commendable things you do will

and shine brighter than ever.

satisfy you.”

shine as light upon them, and then

What must we do to be different

they will give their praise to your

and begin to shine? First, return to

Father in heaven” (Matt 5:14-17).

the One True Light, Jesus. We must

What has been under appreciat-

each discover this relationship with

ed about the life of Jesus is how His

the God defined as Light, and Love. It

followers actually learn to engage

is futile to look for meaning and love

life. He ignited a movement that

while at the same time running from

unleashed previously untapped po-

God.

tential in those who believed in Him.

Second, we must align with our calling in life and regain our focus.

Jeff Wittmer is a speaker and certified personal coach. He can be found online at burningbushlifecoaching.com.

He created an environment where His followers began to believe the

45

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what Jesus referred to prophetically

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EMPOWERED TO BE THE CHURCH And Pierce The Darkness

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

46

2019

I

'll never forget the day Jesus appeared to me in the Spirit in my living room and it was quite a humbling experience.

He said to me, "Jenene, your concerns are not my concerns. My concern is my bride. I'm looking for my bride who is willing to prepare herself and willing to pierce the darkness." He then concluded with, "I'm coming back very very soon."

Needless to say I dropped to my knees and was sobbing on my living room floor. My husband was in the other room and came in to find out why I was buckled on my knees in tears. I explained that I had just had this encounter and the only way I could describe itâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;it marked me.

It ruined me forever for seeing life the same way.

It left me feeling an incredible urgency for the Church to wake up because we have a lot less time than most people think.

BY JENENE STAFFORD

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"We're all walking testimonies of the radical love of Jesus."

No longer are the days of routine worship

This is true, but we’ve in some ways

rituals and shallow forms of praise. No

misinterpreted His desire, His con-

longer can a Sunday or Wednesday ser-

cern. We, as humans, could never

vice be enough to sustain us. No longer

live up to that in our power. This is

can we expect to be bottle-fed the Word

the sole reason He came up with the

of God; we need to feed ourselves more

best plan through Jesus. So now, in-

meat as we mature (more depth, more

stead of trying to fix ourselves like

Word, more love). No longer can we live

we’ve been stuck doing for decades,

without passion, mightily content with

our one job is, has been, and always

the mediocre christian life. The side-lines

will be—to cling to Jesus. We’ve

are reserved for the ones uninterested

wasted years focused on the wrong

in stepping into the fulness of His glory

things. However, just as it only takes

and experiencing all that Jesus intended

the slightest change in temperature

for us. We hear this a lot in messages spo-

to change the trajectory of a bullet,

ken all across the world, but it is no less

we’ve been no where near hitting

powerful for this moment in time. As we

the target because of a mere discon-

move forward in the things of God for

nect with what’s truly on the Father’s

such a time as this, we’re reminded that

heart, which is to be one with each

God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies

other and with the Spirit.

the ones He calls—the ones who not only

By God’s graceful design, we are

wake up to the call, but actually decide

gifted with the opportunity to live life

to walk with Him because of it. We don’t

in unity with each other, and most

need titles or specific permission. All we

importantly, with Him. This is what

need is to be 100% washed in His love

will convince the world that Jesus is

(daily) so we can radically love the world

real and was sent by the Father. The

the way the Church was always meant to.

real, radical love exchange that hap-

is an unapologetic power that comes when we truly answer the call on our lives to simply live in union, fully drenched in love. When we come to understand even a small degree of how empowered we are to to be joined in Spirit to our Father in Heaven, it is the game changer. And Jesus is the One who continues to reveal the Father and His endless love to us because He wants us to experience it for ourselves, now until forever.

pens when we connect with the Fa-

HIS CONCERN

ther through Jesus is the only thing

For over a century, we’ve been taught that

nowadays that will do more than

God wants spotless, blameless children.

turn heads our way—His way. There

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

48

2019

BE ONE: THE EKKLESIA

be joined together as one body even as

gion. He’s played with our think-

To help solidify the real concern of the Fa-

Jesus and the Father, are joined together

ing, deceiving us far too long.

ther, Jesus’ prayer to the Father in John 17

as one, and that we would be joined to

Since he’s tainted the world’s

made it abundantly clear where His heart

them. He also says the world will recog-

view of Christianity and caused

was toward the people of the Ekklesia (the

nize Him because of the glory that Jesus

division in the Church, our ability

Church). It is important for us to be en-

Himself shared with us and it's the glory

to rise up and be the Church is the

lightened by this passage so we can live

that unites us together.

plot twist he’s been trying to pre-

and be better equipped with even clearer

Jesus says, "I want them to experience

vent. The ball’s in our court and

understanding of how the Father sees us.

what I've experienced because you've

we can either fall back as we’ve

Passionately, Jesus says, “Father, I have

loved me since the beginning.” And so

been good at doing or decide to

manifested who you really are and I have

much so that Jesus says, "I want them to

allow God to stretch us, and get

revealed you to the men and women that

be here with me so they can experience

with God’s program. If our choice

you gave to me. They were yours, and you

even more glory." He is as excited for us

is the latter, it’s then our mandate

gave them to me, and they have fastened

to be with Him as we are to be with Them.

to radically love humanity and

your Word firmly to their hearts. And now

Maybe even more excited because we can

each other.

at last they know that everything I have is

only see in part, but They see fully how

Standing on the foundation of

a gift from you, and the very words you

glorious the future will be with Them,

the Spirit of Christ, the oneness

gave to me to speak I have passed on to

apart from all the suffering and pain that

with our brothers and sisters is

them. They have received your words

exists in this world. In the meantime,

the thing that makes us untouch-

and carry them in their hearts.They are

there’s no earthly time to waste, waiting

able as we learn to make Jesus––

convinced that I have come from your

on standby. We’re commissioned to take

not religion––the center of our

presence, and they have fully believed

part and overcome the world through

faith. If we let His love inside us

that you sent me to represent you. So with

the love that is too good to describe. And

tear down all the walls of religion

deep love, I pray for my disciples. I’m not

we’re commissioned to do it together, as

and denominational differences,

asking on behalf of the unbelieving world,

His beloved Church.

etc. and refuse the power of the

but for those who belong to you, those you

enemy to divide, our unity with

have given me. For all who belong to me

RELIGION DOESN’T CUT IT

each other will undoubtedly at-

now belong to you. And all who belong to

Jesus has the keys to all the powers in

tract the masses. All of humanity

you now belong to me as well, and my glo-

heaven, on earth and below the earth and

was made with one purpose in

ry is revealed through their surrendered

when He was raised He even opened up

mind—family. The Father’s heart

lives."

the tombs to raise the dead of those that

is all about seeing us become one

John 17 is a powerful chapter of the Bi-

died under the law of religion so they

and love each other so much that

ble. It reminds us that we don't belong to

could be free in the law of Christ. Have

the world notices the difference

the world, that we are made holy by the

you ever heard a pastor talk about that in-

and we stand out because of it.

Word of truth, and that we are commis-

credible scene in church? I haven't. I guess

The world may not know for sure

sioned by Jesus to be representatives, just

that's why MM exists so we can talk about

yet, but He is waiting for every

like He was a representative of the Father.

the things you would rarely hear from the

lost soul to come back home—to

Jesus dedicated himself to us so that we

pulpit. Can you imagine how many people

Him. He does all He can to get His

would be fully dedicated to the Father like

would have believed after dead people

family together. But as a God who

Him. The Father's heart was for all the

came out of their graves and testified to

chose to give us free will, He can

people to come to believe in Jesus because

the Truth of Jesus? I would imagine that

only do so much. This is where

of the message the Ekklesia would share.

was a great kick-off to a massive follow-

we as Christ’s representatives

And today, that’s you and me and anyone

ing of believers literally coming out of the

come in and take our positions

that our light would touch. He asked that

dark into the light of Jesus.

in the marketplace to bring the

we would be protected from evil, and in

Satan really thought he could keep us

verse 21 and 22 He prays that we would

circling the same mountains of fake reli-

49

Kingdom to earth.

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THE NEED FOR REAL

them (and the rest of the world)

it of the Church, all birthed by the Spirit

How are we portraying Christianity? Are we living

something

counterfeit.

of Love and unity. The Lord is coming like

hypocritically rather than authentically? And why

There's evidence of the rise in spir-

a mighty whirlwind and He is unleashing

would anyone be inspired by us to become a Chris-

ituality in both the world and the

His great power through His followers.

tian? Are we being a true, Kingdom representative

church. The interest in the supernat-

Through the Ekklesia, endowed and em-

(not a silent observer), not only in our conduct, but

ural, and in the charismatic church

powered by the same Spirit that raised Je-

with Spirit, power, and God's love? As His repre-

is rising, however so is the wiccan

sus from the dead, we will demolish many

sentatives, we may not always have the answers

movement. This is an opportunity for

of the works of the devil. He has been

or what we may think we need in the moment. But

the Church to step up and not back

found out, perhaps only by a remnant of

we are filled with the Holy Spirit that equips us to

down. Ephesians 5:8-10 reminds us

the Church. We know that he is the ruler

share the proof of His work in our lives. This is why

that we were once darkness, but now

of the world, but we also know who we

we need to be ready to hear from Him and quick

we are light in the Lord. We need to

are in Christâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;there is no comparison.

to see the Father's heart. God is love. And perfect

walk as children of light, and the evi-

We know the eternal gifts from Jesus that

love casts out fear, so we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to pierce

dence of the light consists in all good-

have been given to us, and that we are

the darkness.

ness, righteousness, and truth.

the ones that Jesus has been waiting on.

real,

not

The world needs the light to go on. They don't

Together we will pierce the darkness and bring the Truth.

them to wake up. We're not living in an age that

THE CHURCH IS WAKING UP TO LOVE AND WHO WE REALLY ARE

people will receive a harsh, religious spirit. People

The Spirit of wisdom and counsel is

intended after all these centuries. He has

need some kind of proof that God offers something

rising within us and we are awak-

not been slow as it may seem, He is buying

the world can never provide and if there's anything

ening to the Great Mystery that is

time, patiently waiting for those who hear

we know about the younger generation especially,

in the Spirit of Christ. The Ekklesia

His name to come and follow Him into

they're looking for a "real experience." The young-

is assembling and operating, not by

the Light of the Father. We are returning

er generation of leaders is leaning more and more

spells like the covens, but by Holy

to the ways of the Ekklesia, as a family,

toward "spiritual encounters" so we need to show

power that is welded inside the Spir-

we're going back to the beginning. We are

need someone to take a baseball bat to them to get

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

50

We are becoming the Church as Jesus

2019

the representatives of the Kingdom of God and we deeply love humanity

what He does for us. He brings us peace

just like Jesus doesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and we're going to prove it.

in the midst of our suffering and shame and He sheds light into the dark areas of

THE POWER OF OUR TESTIMONY

our life. That is why He is our Wonderful

What has Jesus done for you? How has He loved you in the secret places

Counselor, a breath of fresh air after the

of your life? Who has He revealed to you that you are to Him? How has

draining lifestyle of walking and playing

He healed you? This is all part of a rock-solid, indisputable testimony that

on the dark side trying to feed a hunger

our enemy cannot touch. The answers to these intimate God-questions are

and longing that can't be quenched. The

revealed in the relationship that is formed as we learn to walk and talk with

devil has nothing on us as the "accuser of

God about the concerns and questions of our heart. Our testimonies are not

the bretheren" when we have a testimony

formed by religion. They're formed by the revelation of the Spirit of mercy,

that stands in heaven and on earth. We're

love, truth and goodness and His name is Jesus.

living proof of the radical love of Jesus.

In Revelation 12:9-11 it says, (9) "And the great dragon was cast out,

To dig a bit deeper, the word testimony

that old serpent, called the Devil and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (10) And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ: for the accuser of our bretheren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. (11) And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony: and they loved not their lives unto the death."

This is why it's so

important to understand the M.O. of our enemy and where our strength comes from. Our ability to overcome is in the sacrifice and completion of the cross (which is the power

"The Lord is coming like a mighty whirlwind releasing His great power through His followers."

of the resurrection) and our personal testimony of Jesus Christ.

The fact that the Word of God says, "We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony" is essential to understand. Our tes-

is powerful because a true testimony will stand up in heaven.

timony is proof to what Jesus as our Savior has done for each of us. When

However, in this world, someone could

Jesus comes into the picture, a light is shed on the things we are enslaved

provide a false testimony, claiming to

to so that we can focus on the freedom available when He transforms our

be true; and it's the jury that will deter-

lives. He is the Prince of Peace and the Light of the world and that's exactly

mine what is true or false. Witnesses are

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"We are living proof that Jesus brings us out of the darkness and into the Light." important to validate your testimony. Al-

perience the Spirit and power in it. The

we're following in His footsteps. His heart

though the judicial system is very import-

greatest way to express true Christianity

is that no one would live separate from

ant to our earthly lives, it's evermore im-

is to share our personal experiences. We

Him, but that all people would turn away

portant for our eternal one because Jesus

need to be persuasive by breaking it down

from the darkness and into the light of Je-

Christ is the ultimate Judge of the Church.

for people in real and simple terms. We

sus. We need our heart to be broken for

You'll discover in our article "Who is the

accomplish this by stepping out in faith

people who are suffering, so much so,

Devil according to the Bible?" that he is

as the Spirit leads, not with big words or

that we are willing to draw people with

partially our accuser and his accusations

sounding like the smartest person in the

the goodness of who He really is and see

are meant to (1) deter us from God's plan

room. Even the apostle Paul said to the

people healed and set free.

in our life and (2) make a legal claim that

Corinthians that God chose the foolish

we are guilty before God and therefore

things of the world to confound the wise;

subject to some kind of penalty or punish-

and God chose the weak things of the

ment. All the more reason for us to stay

world to confound the things which are

keen on the Word, the truth that not only

mighty. I think the point is God is going

sets us free but also keeps us free.

to prove Himself perhaps not the way we

How we live as believers is important.

might think, but in a way people can ex-

There is a before and after when we begin

perience not only in words but practical-

to investigate who Jesus is and it's in the

ly and supernaturally. Paul said, in Cor.

searching Jesus out that we find such in-

1:4-6 "My preaching was not with enticing

credible grace and truth. Truth holds all

words of man's wisdom, but in demon-

the weight in the spirit realm as we learn

stration of the Spirit and of power; that

to walk in the power of the Kingdom of

your faith wouldn't stand in the wisdom

God. Satan is a liar and a deceiver and

of men, but in the power of God."

he'll do everything he can to intimidate

We don't want to be confused by think-

and confuse us to agree with him so he

ing it's our job to come up with the fish

can have legal rights to make your life a

to feed the 5000. It's only our job to come

living hell. But, remember he is not your

up with whatever is asked of us, and God

Judge, Jesus is, so live worthy.

will do the rest. Good works in the bib-

True Christianity is our raw and real

lical sense come from God's heart living

testimony. It needs to be shared and

and breathing through us. God is ecstat-

demonstrated in a way people really ex-

ic when He sees our good works because

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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2019

STAND STRONG

so many unknowns and concerns it will

The chaos, blindness and polarization is

cause even the best of us to want to give

We have confused hating people rather

everywhere including the church on the

up and think we can just have a "normal"

than hating what's evil. And, with the re-

corner. We're living in controversial, hard

life. But, we're not called to be normal or

ligious and political demonic systems that

times and we need to know that we're a

live normal. It is then that we will need

have been in operation for at least 1500

people who are tried and true. But we are

our brothers and sisters to lift us up in

years the church as a whole has failed

empowered even in the midst of it to rise

prayer, bear each other's burden and, as

to a great degree at being and operating

up and be the church. The trumpet's call

the Bible says, "fulfill the law of Christ—

the way Jesus exampled. For so long we

is being blown to put on righteousness as

love one another as I have loved you."

thought the church was in the building

up. It's not His desire, it's the devil's.

we march into a new era (that is based on

We are part of a family. The command

instead of realizing the Church is you and

an ancient model of Christianity) where

of Jesus to "love one another" and to "be

me, the believers of the Gospel carrying

we are learning how to assemble like the

one" is really important. Like Him, we

the Light and power of the Cross within

disciples as God's Ekklesia. While we're

are called to infuse salt and light into cul-

us. We are the evidence for all people who

getting revelation and learning what that

ture as we journey into a hostile, foreign

grow tired and weary of what this world

really means, we need to be cautious and

land (the world). And we need each oth-

has to offer (nothing solid, nothing eter-

aware of any open doorways for the ene-

er to help us to keep standing strong. We

nal, nothing empowered by God)––that

my because he is looking for those he can

all have a desire for community, a place

Jesus is the narrow Way. He is full of light

devour.

to belong. And the truth is so many peo-

and has no darkness in Him. He has lit us

The new era has arrived and we're

ple are really broken because we have a

up with His Great Love and has literally

beginning to wake up to that and we all

world that is largely morally bankrupt

infused Himself, His Truth, His Peace, His

have marching orders that will at some

and deceived. Because of it, people end

Life, His Kingdom and His Word into the

point be beyond us. Some days will have

up in all kinds of scary places like gangs

spiritual DNA of His Ekklesia.

and covens, or sucked into a lifestyle of

When we say "yes" to Jesus He is fa-

partying and emptiness that can't be filled

mous for wooing us into following His

regardless of how much alcohol or drugs

plan in such magnificent and beautiful

they consume. But, many of these people

ways. When we've experienced the dark

end up in dark places because they're

side and then we experience Jesus for

looking for something that seems like

who He really is—and the devil for who

family.

he really is—we should feel like yelling

The Lord wants us to go fully empow-

from the rooftops, "Jesus is the real deal

ered after these people and with love

and the devil is a counterfeit!" However,

leading the way, just like Jesus did for the

it's not always the way Jesus wants us to

man full of demons living in the tombs.

go about things. It's the Holy Spirit who

We need to ask ourselves now on this side

empowers us, teaches us and leads us to

of heaven, "How will we respond as the

be who Jesus has called us to be—lights to

Ekklesia when we face Jesus if we don't

the world. But, like Jesus said, He's look-

go out and be the light in these hard dark

ing for those that are willing to go. Even

places?" And it's not that He's not sending

in the midst of chaos, we go into the dark-

us, it's because we've been afraid and we

ness because we're called to GO and fol-

lacked faith. Some are afraid we're not

low in Jesus' footsteps. It is the least we

who He says we are (full of His Spirit) or

can do in our love for Him because we

maybe He just wants all the wicked people

are living proof that Jesus brings us out of

to go to hell? The problem with that line

darkness into the light.

of thinking is that it doesn't biblically hold

53

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BE IN E

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Interviewed by Jenene Stafford Article by Nissi Guiao

TA R O A R A I , C H I E F DREAMING OFFICER OF MIKUNI IS AN INSPIRING EXAMPLE OF BELIEVING IN THE IMPOSSIBLE

T

aro Arai, a thriving, eclectic, down-

that’s what [they’re] going to do to you. I

to-earth, faithful, fully joyous and ex-

wasn’t that special. I gave those shoes to

tremely blessed businessman in the

the school and that teacher, and I didn’t

greater Sacramento area, has a mind

wear shoes for a year.”

of his own. Today, he is well-known for being the

Always uncomfortable, Taro couldn’t

personable CDO (Chief Dreaming Officer) and own-

settle in to his home country because he

er of Mikuni restaurants where he passionately

was wildly different. He says he couldn’t

loves and serves his community and clients. But like

be himself. Distraught, he told his dad,

everyone else, he has, of course, had his fair share

“Dad, I have to do something about this.”

of struggles and difficulties and humble beginnings.

Without question, his dad

(Would it really be a proper story without any con-

heard America is a good place for you to

flict?)

go.” This resilient kind of thinking is the

AND REMEMBERING W H AT ' S I M P O R TA N T TO SUCCEED.

replied, “I

what Taro thrives on today. He knew he

THE CRAZY KID

was different early on, but he refused to

It all started in Japan. Taro was quite the charac-

change who he was just to fit in. From a

ter growing up, standing out literally everywhere

young age, he was already beginning to

he went. He explains, “My name Taro means first

think outside the box. And with his dad

son; Arai means wild. So, wild, first son. I didn’t

in full support of his genuine expression

name myself, [but] I was kind of crazy. I was the

of himself, he didn’t have to pretend to be

only one that had a reverse mohawk—all different

like everyone else. He was free to think,

hairstyles—[sometimes] I shaved only half. I did ev-

and gradually became free to believe in

erything I shouldn’t do in Japan, and people didn’t

impossible things.

like it, especially teachers. They want to teach formality—you have to be a certain way. I just couldn’t

HARD WORK PAYS OFF

do it.”

It’s not only about believing, however. To

But it wasn’t an issue of crazy hair, though some

back up Taro’s belief that there had to be

traditionalists would argue otherwise. Everything

something “more” in life than his negative

Taro did was different, but his uniqueness and abili-

experiences, he knew how to work hard.

ty to stand out was nothing of the negative. From the

He says, “I started doing the newspaper

beginning, God set him apart for what He would do

route since [I was] 11 and raised enough

later on in his life. He had to walk through unique

money to pay for the whole family to come

trials too, however, before he’d ever learn to dream

here. Then as soon as we got here, actu-

big. He recalls, “Even the first day in Junior High I

ally, we had a Japanese speaking church

had red shoes instead of white with the yellow trim

that needed a Japanese speaking pastor.

(school colors). My dad has been a pastor, church

We got a green card right away; that was a

[was] very small in Japan—less than 1% Christian,

miracle too.” Had he not put the effort in,

[so] he was not getting much money. I found very

after the dream of going to America fell

cheap, red shoes and said, 'Why not get [those] in-

into his lap, he and his family may not be

stead?' I wore that and first thing, [in front of 2500]

in the sweet spot they’re in today.

students. . .the principal said, 'Hey, the kid in the red

Learning how to press in and work

shoes come up to the podium.' And I said, ‘Yes!’ [as]

hard to pursue his dreams was a mus-

I’m waving at my friend [and before I know it], [the

cle Taro began to exercise much earlier

principal] starts smacking my face until I bled ev-

than most. Given his name and his drive,

erywhere. And at school, if you don’t follow rules,

he was built to push the envelope which

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would get more heavy and damaged

through him is the foundation that can’t

Taro is his enthusiasm and hunger for

down the road, however. So many things

be overlooked. Even he says, “I mean, we

life and more of it. He’s dedicated to keep

happened, one right after the other, after

don’t deserve to be here. That’s what I

flowing, never growing cold or stopping

Taro and his family settled in to the states.

mean [when I say] ‘by the grace of God.’

short because he truly believes there’s

They would take flight with a positive for

That is the only reason we are here; that’s

so much more in store if he exercises his

the restaurant; then the next moment,

the reason we came and how we opened

faith and steps out. It’s evident his life is

things were falling apart. Not to mention

the restaurant.”Believing that God and His

already abundant and overflowing, but

the fact that they didn’t even know what

good grace is the only reason for healthy

his refusal to settle where he is, is inspir-

they were doing when they began their

success, like Taro, is key. When we begin

ing to say the least. With conviction he

journey in the restaurant industry.

to think that somehow we’re the sole au-

says, “We have to improve ourselves in

He had so many opportunities tostrength-

thor of our own progress, we stumble in

every way. . .in the business world, in the

en his faith.

the misunderstanding of Matthew 19:26

spiritual world, we have to keep doing our

(“. . .with man this is impossible, but with

best.”

DIG DEEPER

God all things are possible”). Taro stays in

One day it became almost too much for

remembrance of this truth which contin-

KEEP KAIZENING

Taro to bear. So much so, he was tempted

ues to propel him forward. His humility,

“Let’s keep kaizening in every way with

to go back to the very place he felt impris-

heart connect with God and obedience to

God,” Taro also exclaims on social me-

oned. He recalls twisting his finger, break-

follow His lead keeps him free to dream

dia. “Kaizen means continuous improve-

ing his ankle, having an ulcer, cutting his

ment—change

hand—pretty much any terrible thing

for the better,”

that could happen did as he describes it.

he says, and this

“I decided to replace 'What If' with 'Why not' and believe impossible things are possible with God!”

Completely stressed out and not even able to make sushi because of all the injuries combined, he asked his dad, “Can we go back to Japan in the middle of the night?”

Full of wisdom and patience, his dad replied, “Son, dig deeper. Deepen the foundation—God promised me He is going to build something amazing upon [it].”

Taro’s dad continued to pour out the wisdom. “He said two things that hit me,” says Taro. “One is it’s not about what you know, but who you know—know Jesus, you get to heaven. Knowing people is the key for us.” In learning this, he says “I started talking to every customer.” Then, the question arose, “Why don’t you do your best (which isn’t much) and then God will do the rest?” From that point on, something clicked. “I changed my whole attitude about work,” he says. “Since then,

idea

has

deeply

been rooted

in him since he overcame a huge 11 million dollar loss around 2008.

Although

he’s

had many hard falls, he claims that time to be “the best lesson from God on how to run the business [though] it was hard to see back then.” Since that low dip, he has changed the whole

focus

of

his business ven-

I never have a bad day because I’m doing

tures. When they

my best and the rest is up to Him.”

opened

Mikuni

Kaizen in 2009,

HUMILITY IS KEY

big dreams. On his social media platform,

he says “We changed our whole attitude

Taro is not quiet about his faith, and he

he says “. . .I decided to keep dreaming big

toward running the new store.” Though

shines because of it. He’s written two

and expect big things from God, who is

feeling defeated, he took it upon himself

books so far (the first about abundance

bigger than all problems and challenges. I

to act upon the wisdom his dad kept seed-

and the second about appreciation) and

will be praying humbly and believing that

ing into him, which was to “dig in again.”

a third is in progress where he’s adamant

He will use me to help others!. . .I decided

He shares about how his dad wouldn’t let

about pointing to God for everything he

to replace ‘What if’ with “Why not’ & be-

him give up just because things became

has and everything He’s continuing to do

lieve impossible things are possible with

difficult. And ultimately, he resolved that

in and through his life. His faith in the

God!”

“it’s not about building—it’s not about

God who wants to do impossible things

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

One of the most incredible things about

56

that stuff—it’s about heart.”

2019

Photo by Aaron Guzman

Taro’s perspective is not one we normally see, especially in the restaurant industry. Numbers talk and tend to be the guiding force toward more success, but he has remained faithful in following God’s lead on how to do things. From that lesson in 2009 he says, “We changed our mission statement to be the ‘most loved’ restaurant in the world. We don’t have to be the best; we just want to be loved

by God [and] loved by people. . .that’s the key for success. That’s why we [chose the name] Kaizen.

We had to keep reminding ourselves.”

Since that shift in heart, Taro’s impact on his community continues to heighten. The remarkable thing is that this man does not quit. Instead of focusing on temporal things, he understands the importance of self-care and self-improvement. He does his best to tackle the hard things deep down on this inside of him. He shares that he “used to be short-tempered. . .hard-headed” so he says “I started praying to God to give me happiness in my heart 24/7. And I told him I want to be

FAV’S

the happiest. . .most joyous man ever.”

This movement caught our attention.

Not only that, but when he felt like he’d struck that goal, he kept pressing in for more. After

At OneRace Stone Mountain pastors signed the Atlanta Covenant. They covenanted to stand against racism in every form, never again allowing it to gain a foothold within our spheres of influence. Now it’s your turn to stand! Go to their website and sign the Covenant.

praying for a new goal, God confirmed truth in his heart and he says “Now I don’t have to choose to be happy, I just have [to ask] God to give me the joy from within. And if I don’t share, I’m going to blow up! So now, every time I go out, I can’t stop sharing.” It’s beautiful to see him live out the message of Kaizen. And if we have the same desire for growth and experiencing abundance, it’s imperative we don’t stop improving.

We all have stories and different backgrounds and personalities. What’s awesome is God’s ability to take who we are—fully who He created us to be—and write us into His bigger plan. Taro’s rising success is no accident; we need to be inspired by him and his tenacity to push forward no matter what life throws his way. Whether Taro is catering or slowing down to sincerely connect with his customers or doing his best as husband/father as a devout family man, he manages to keep God at the center of everything. He has seen many highs and many lows, and he understands there will be more to come. But the most commendable thing about Taro is the way he lives empowered to believe in the impossible. No matter what comes, his heart is set on not holding back as he says, “It’s [all] up to Him, but I’m going to keep dreaming. . .”

www.OneRaceMovement.com

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T H E

P I C T U R E O F RES I L I E N C E

John Armstrong Photography

An Interview With Kiri-Maree Moore, CEO of Decision Velocity® Global & VOICEadvocacy Foundation

NO EXCUSES, NO LIMITATIONS, NO BUTS! GREAT LESSONS TO LIVE AND LEAD BY

K

iri-Maree is one of the

At age 22 I realized I had to be the one to

themselves. This is what Kiri-Maree has

most unique women I've

make the result of my life different, oth-

done to manifest a true life of meaning,

ever met. Looking at her

erwise I was going to end up another sad

gratitude and a relentless pursuit of see-

you might not realize she

statistic." This was when Kiri-Maree be-

ing global change.

is also the picture of resil-

gan to look at how to create a "new story"

Kiri-Maree has had to be the hero in

ience. The walking stick she uses is not the

regardless of her past. Little did she real-

her family and push through to believe

reason for this common misconception,

ize, the challenges had only just begun.

for a full life for her special needs son

rather, it’s her global leader and “nomad

Kiri-Maree moved to Australia in 1996

Ethan who has spent much of his eighteen

CEO” lifestyle that is often seen as glamor-

where she attended Hillsong College and

years in a wheelchair or a hospital room;

ous. The truth, however, is that her life is

studied leadership and performing arts.

push through to see her autistic child Aro-

all about commitment to something great-

She thought she was called to ministry at

ha live in constant pursuit of her genius;

er than herself...and being resilient is a

the time, and loved music and leadership.

and in and amongst it all, push herself out

requirement.

But, in about 2002 she felt the nudge that

of the wheelchair to embrace the walking

she was destined to go from ministry into

stick. And those are just a few of the dai-

the marketplace.

ly challenges that for most people would

Behind the scenes and even right there on Facebook Live you can see she has the tenacity to ask the tough questions,

She recalls thinking, "what’s the easiest

take them down, but not Kiri-Maree. “I

to shake things up or to put herself out

thing I could do?" At first she thought she

have to believe I can be what I’m meant

there, but it's not because she's unafraid

was meant to work with women, helping

to be so my children can be who they are

or even that it comes easy, or that she likes

them balance being a mom and a pro-

meant to be. If I don’t do it, how can I ex-

being on camera. None of that is true. It's

fessional. However, she was bored and

pect them to?” she says.

because she has asked herself the tough

progress was slow—ultimately it became

While most people would think it’s too

questions that have made her resilient.

evident that it was because it wasn’t real-

much to go to the grocery store with three

It’s what drives her unstoppable nature.

ly what she was meant to do. The women

unruly kids, this family allows nothing

I'm hoping that you'll see why I believe

weren’t who she was truly born to serve.

to stop them and ventures to museums

God highlighted her to me as a leader with

and other cultural events to encourage a

lessons we can all take to heart, regardless

THE AHA! MOMENT

no-limitation-attitude. We need to take a

of what challenges we are personally fac-

"I was at a women’s conference and I was

lesson from this mindset because it opens

ing in life or leadership.

surrounded by these amazing women and

a new world of possibility.

they were looking at the social impact of

Many people can talk a good game,

CREATE A NEW STORY

human trafficking and that, of course, is

but how many people really live up to

She says, "We all have a story. You and

my biggest drive of seeing change across

it? What I love about Kiri-Maree is she

me. Mine was just a bumpy start which

the world. I realized for me to make the

doesn't talk a good game—she's really

I could have chose to let define me. My

biggest impact was not just to work on

humble—she just lives it. For nearly two

mom was 16 years old when she had me,

the front lines of humanity, but to get in

years, she and her husband Taki Moore,

and from that moment I was thrust into

with high-level decision makers to make a

founder of Million Dollar Coach, have

an unpredictable life journeying through

massive change in policy and the way de-

lived the life of "nomad CEOs" and are on

the adoption/foster system. This began

cisions are made at big tables.” Recalling

the road 10 months out of the year. Their

years of pain and going in and out of

that moment, “I sort of heard a voice that

lifestyle takes a small army to run, but re-

families. I wanted more, but I was told I

said, 'Your place is in the marketplace.'

silience is a built-in requirement.

would amount to nothing. I was abused

I thought, 'What are you talking about?

If you were a solopreneur it would seem

and lonely because I felt like no one un-

I’ve never been in the marketplace,’” she

like a dream lifestyle to travel the globe,

derstood me and all that I faced. I was

laughs looking back.

but the reality of it is something else with

rejected because I was different. Those

a family of six facing serious medical chal-

experiences shaped a lot of my beliefs, my

ASK YOURSELF TOUGH QUESTIONS

lenges, running several companies, and

responses to life, and my thinking. I let it

The greatest leaders are the ones who

homeschooling the children. For some it

direct the life I led for over twenty years.

are willing to first ask tough questions of

might seem like controlled chaos. But Ki-

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+ RISK TAKER

ri-Maree has made it a life and leadership

HER GENIUS? MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION FAST

way beyond yourself takes resilience. The

practice to ask herself tough questions to create the life she wants for herself and

Kiri-Maree asked herself, “What can I do

recover quickly from difficulties; tough-

her family. And traveling the world allows

that others can’t?” She was the jack of all

ness; the ability of a substance or object

her to work with leaders in remote parts

trades, but not a guru of any one thing.

to spring back into shape; the power or

of the world such as Brazil and Zimbabwe,

So, on a quest for clarity and certainty she

ability to return to the original form after

develop programs and ecosystems for sus-

began asking clients, “What exactly did I

being bent, compressed, or stretched; the

tainable growth through her VOICEAdvo-

help you with?”

ability to recover readily from illness, de-

cacy Foundation®, as well as provide a global education for her children.

definition of resilience is: the capacity to

She recalls a trip to the Philippines

pression, adversity, or the like. That defi-

where she designed a team-building ex-

nition sums up what built Kiri-Maree into

ercise with the tribal council there that

a global leader.

THE QUESTION SHE’S FAMOUS FOR

she and her husband Taki facilitated. It

Some people might be a little jolted—

To ask a question out of Kiri-Maree's

was very successful, with a breakthrough

like a child when a parent says, “I don’t

playbook—"If nothing was stopping you,

moment for the team, as well as clarity

want to hear any excuses.” But in Ki-

what would you do?" That’s a powerful

and confidence for her husband. She lat-

ri-Maree Moore’s world, “No Excuses, No

question to ask and one that you will ask

er asked the team and her husband Taki,

Limitations, No Buts!” is actually more

yourself over and over again. But there’s

“What was so powerful about what I did

than a good motto to live by, it’s been a

a dream hidden that more times than not

for you?” Their response was, “You helped

life-saving one. It’s also the backbone of

is revealed in layers. Through a journey of

us make the right decision fast.” She start-

what you can expect if you’re committed

personal breakthroughs (that often start

ed to see her genius and realized it didn’t

enough to hire her to kick your butt into

with a glimpse of an insight) we begin to

sound very sexy, but it was what she was

high gear. That motto has appropriately

see what God sees in us, a masterpiece. At

really good at. Multiple clients since then

become part of the Decision Velocity®

first though it’s just a small piece to what

have told her the same thing. She learned

Global brand and what sets Kiri-Maree

seems like a self-discovery puzzle. Howev-

which patterns create what results.

apart from other leaders; and it’s a pow-

er, in fact, destiny is attached to this jour-

Kiri-Maree has a lot to teach leaders

erful strategy for leaders that are ready

ney if we’ll commit to the life-long motto,

around the world about how to make de-

to make huge strides forward without all

“No Excuses, No Limitations, No Buts!”

cisions fast and how to bring about global

the fluff.

change. She has a roundabout way that

KEEP LOOKING FOR THE GENIUS ZONE

pulls the right decision out of you. Some-

EMBRACE THE SETBACKS

With the intention of creating a new sto-

times the process, quite frankly, is a bit

Sometimes we feel as if we've been

ry it can still take years to find the “the

irritating (I know from personal experi-

around the track so many times or we've

genius zone” and it’s typically not found

ence). She has a remarkable gift to pin-

tried this, that and everything in between

in a book or a degree, but in authentic

point with great precision exactly what a

to get to that place of knowing you've

pursuit of your own unique strengths and

leader needs to hear to kick their butt into

found what you're born to do. We take

passions.

the right gear. But it's her secret sauce,

one step forward and two steps back, and

It is a daily practice of pursuing your

her genius, to pull what matters most and

our dreams are thwarted again. But, the

greatness while simultaneously battling

get the 'buts' we all have out of the way.

truth is we gain something in our many

the demons that will do everything to

Her methods are only part of the reason

attempts to keep believing setback after

keep you from believing you have a pur-

she is so unique. She understands people’s

setback, and it's character built from chal-

pose. Layer by layer, question by ques-

wiring patterns and is able to see things

lenge that helps us become resilient.

tion, year by year pursuing what seems

the rest of us can't. She's naturally quite

The biggest challenge to Kiri-Maree’s

at the beginning of the long journey to

brilliant, but the special gifts she calls her

launching her global business was that

be this untouchable unknown zone. But

"genius zone" have come from a tough

there was still a lot happening at home,

it’s in the trials, the grit, where we find

childhood, an expensive education, and

including rehabbing her special needs

the tenacity to keep pressing on towards

decades of walking through life's harsh

son Ethan. Ironically as it turned out, she

the truth that we're made for something

terrain. Her curiosity and ability to ana-

once thought her calling was in the health

more. Find what you’re truly destined to

lyze has given her the opportunity to see

industry, but came to a swift halt when

do in life, “run the race to win,” otherwise

her decisions as well as others' as patterns

she ended up in a wheelchair herself. She

we're not really living. To find the genius

that are formed out of our stories. This is

asked and answered some very serious

zone we have to be willing to learn to see

part of the work she does with clients.

questions during this down time to get her-

the value of our experiences, failures and

DISCOVER WHAT SETS YOU APART

self from the path of being in the wheel-

setbacks.

Going after purpose and leadership that is

chair to the path she was born to take.

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

60

2019

PATTERN DISRUPTION

some other people. I had to learn how to

There’s clarity and certainty when you do

embrace failure. We have to be aware

what you’re fascinated with. How can I

that we’re all going to fail, and there will

rinse and repeat, and keep doing this? “It

be moments where we don’t do it right or

CHANGE HAPPENS WITHIN THE CULTURES WE CREATE

started twenty years ago when I was work-

at the level we want. Know that they’re

One of the biggest ways we can disrupt

ing with youth, street kids and prostitutes.

going to happen, embrace it and be pre-

what’s happening across leadership land-

It was fantastic when you were there and

pared to come out on the other side. It’s

scape is by creating different leadership

you were able to make such a difference.

like exercising a muscle.”

cultures, communities, tribes and the

But what was terrible was that you could

powerful training ground for leadership.

places we influence. Her company is a

put on a great program or course, but if

EMBRACE DISRUPTION

model of how we can disrupt leadership.

you don’t equip people or give them the

Her life during the last sixteen years has

Significant change is happening at Deci-

tools and resources to be able to do it

been full of disruption and in the midst

sion Velocity® Global and now that it’s

themselves, nothing ever changes. If you

of it all—from two special needs children

been about three years since she’s been

don’t change the pattern of what they’re

and being continuously focused on her

using her patterns to help global leaders,

involved in, then really all you’re doing is

own healing—to now being a nomad CEO

the learning curve is past and she feels

bandaid-ing. I hated that, and I was pretty

and world traveler, still she finds disrup-

that now the ecosystem is in place to re-

keen on working out the destructive pat-

tion to be a key ingredient to her contin-

ally thrive.

terns. I asked the questions, ‘Why do peo-

uous success. So much so that in addition

Ultimately disruption is about creat-

ple fall back into these patterns of doing

to her motto "No Excuses, No Limitations,

ing spaces where everyone is able to in-

things that aren’t serving them or adding

No Buts," disruption is also part of her

novate, and create new ways to make a

value to humanity?’ The other side of that

company’s brand. She is daring enough

difference as a collaborative communi-

was, ‘Why are some that haven’t been

to bring it to leaders across the globe, and

ty. She says, “If we’re not being our best,

given everything under the sun still able

they are grateful for it because it’s her

we’re not able to bring our genius to the

to get great results?’ I just wanted to stop

process of pattern disruption that helps

table, and we’re not going to add value to

bandaid-ing. It needed to not be about me,

leaders make the right decisions fast®.

the world.” She believes this is what’s hap-

it needed to be about what I could create

pening across the globe. “There’s so much

that would provide the results for people

LEARNING HOW TO PIVOT

pain, misuse of economy, and people who

when I wasn’t there. So that’s the question

The success of this extreme lifestyle is due

are in need.” She’s convinced that we can

I asked myself.”

to a high-level leadership practice called

grow economy for generations to come,

She asked so many questions to de-

pivoting. She juggles her own company

and that people really can thrive. “I want

termine the specific behavior patterns

Decision Velocity® Global, her foundation

a healthy world, and to do that we need to

that created specific results, whether un-

VOICEvelocity.com, and is also the CEO

make healthy decisions,” she says.

wanted or extraordinary, that she found

of their company Million Dollar Coach.

The unhealthy and corrupt leadership

herself apologizing. But life is a learning

This requires moving extremely fast,

she sees at high level decision tables in

ground and the reason she’s gotten where

being able to pivot from one task to the

her travels as a nomad CEO drives her to

she is because she’s been willing to learn

next with precision focus in order to be

continue this relentless pursuit.

along the journey. Even when it’s tough

effective. The key is patience and commit-

and it really sucks, she kept asking her-

ment. She makes small but essential steps

GOD NEVER LETS US DOWN

self, “How do I make this work for me

to complete a project, as well as working

She shares that in the dedication section

rather than against me?”

from an 89-day, rather than a 90-day goal

of her new book Isolation coming out

We talk about resilience, getting back

plan, because simply put, she must be dis-

soon that she attributes her gratitude first

up even when it gets really tough and

ruptive to every expected norm. That is

and foremost to God. She says, “Where

believing in dreams that are beyond you,

the way she rolls, and it’s very effective.

humans have let me down, God has never

and sometimes you can’t necessarily see

She has learned to pivot at an extreme

let me down. This is what I’m called to do,

how it’s all going to end up. Dreams ma-

level and this is one of the secret keys to

what I’m designed for,” and sees the jour-

ture over time. “I’ve had some of these

her success as a global leader. It’s definite-

ney as His and hers together. She’s being

dreams for over thirty years and even

ly part of her genius zone and something

faithful doing her thing.

though the world around you won’t tell

we believe is what sets apart a global

you to keep on going and doing this, I

leader from an everyday, ordinary leader.

knew with certainty that I was meant

However, it has been what some might see

to be doing what I was doing,” she says.

as a God-forsaken journey that has taught

“That makes the difference compared to

her to see how disruption can breed a

61

Kiri-Maree has a private group on Facebook that leaders can join upon request @theLeadersMovement.

MEGAMORPHOSISMAGAZINE.COM

+ RISK TAKER

BY NISSI GUIAO

LIVING IN AWE T

he joys of Christmas morning. The oohs and ahhs in excitement from all the booms and claps of fireworks every Fourth of July. Sweet surprises and celebration time.

Pleasant gestures, a bubbling up of the most genuine, contagious smiles. Blissful kisses, heartfelt connections, a strong embrace through all the difficult times.

There’s something about these moments I’ve listed and described. Yet even with them all combined, there’s nothing quite like the heightened encounters I’m picturing so vividly in my mind.

A gaze—so fixed on the unnatural, tethered to the incredible—I’ve been ruined for anything less than an incomprehensible delight. My expectations have grown so high because ever since I said “Yes” to Jesus, He highjacked my sense of purposelessness and woke me by surprise. The “Yes” I’m describing, however, is more groomed and intentional than the initial prayer at the altar following a courageous strut down the aisle. It springs from a place much deeper—from the internal battle against my God-given desire to “fully” surrender the entirety of my life.

INTRICATE DESIGN God has always been present and in plain sight.

Though for many years, immaturity and deception kept Him too hidden in disguise.

It wasn’t until I found myself too desperate and broken down, from years of carrying weights heavy-ridden with stupid lies, that I began to understand that I was helplessly stuck in the wrong fight. His rescue, by design, only solidified the foundational truths planted in me since I was but a child.

All these details are important because they’ve become the meat of my heart’s cry.

Without letting Jesus infiltrate the ugliest parts of my life, I wouldn’t have the clarity of vision to see and experience what I was always made for—the life-long, day-by-by/ moment-by-moment connection with the Father. It’s a miracle quite divine.

See, what I’ve learned since that “Yes” (the best decision of my life) is that there’s not a single moment that passes where I can’t tap into the kind of free-thinking that excites the Father when I submit and try. See, I’ve discovered the life-changing truth that I wasn’t created to “just get by.” This power and presence that I speak from—it’s the indestructible, pure-love, intimate relationship I get to have with Jesus that has long since taken flight.

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photo by Yoann Boyer

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WITH > FOR

than the finest jewels and gems only the

is no turning back to the old, boring ugly

Learning to live with Him (Jesus) and

richest can afford to buy. I didn’t used to

lives we’ve been accustomed to. Imagine

not merely for Him has changed my life

live this way. In fact, before I was truly

wells of life and stunning reality just

completely. The eyes-wide-open kind of

awakened to who Jesus is (not simply for

waiting for us to engage them. Reality

gloriously rich, encounter-filled reality

me but in me and through me), I don’t re-

is, they’re all around us hidden in plain

isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The

ally understand how I got by. Besides an

sight. There are countless treasures of all

thing that abruptly arrests my heart in

occasional high, the laughter and slight

sizes and kinds, ready to put us in a state

real adoration is the realization that I get

joy would quickly subside. I was empty

of awe.

to live this way, every day. E-v-e-r-y-d-

and burdened, too dead to appreciate the

a-y. The things that I hope for, even the

light. This is the reason

dreams my heart is after—seeing them

I can’t rave enough

accomplished means nothing if I lose my

about the work He’s

place by His side. Truth is, His pursuit of

done down inside.

me put me in awe, but it’s the living with

I’ve watched Him take

Him that keeps me in such a state of awe

a very unsure and

and wonder that I couldn't force if I tried.

confused young girl

My life—my days have only gotten

and turn her into His

In our lives, whether we see and

"The eyes-wide-open kind of gloriously rich, encounter-filled reality isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

richer since I’ve decided to leave no

masterpiece. The way

space untouched by God’s redeeming

He put life back into

grace. So much so that I can’t contain the

me—it was the start

excitement of how He changed my life

of all things stunning

forever for the better (since on the cross

and beautiful that

He took my place). To be able to look

catch my attention

around and see Jesus in everything—it’s

today. Had He not

what puts the sparkle in my eyes. More

woken me up from a

captivated than a kid in a candy shop, I

depressing daze in my

can’t take my eyes off Him. Even more

most depressing days,

extravagant than the wonder portrayed

I would’ve missed so

in the original Willy Wonka film, “I’ve got

much. Because to have

the golden ticket" giving me access to see

the ability to see all the intricate details

appreciate it or not, there are endless

and experience more of Him in ways that

of the work of His hands, I had to first

reasons to be thankful. The second you

are honestly too marvelous to describe.

become aware of His goodness. I had to

say “Yes” to Jesus with intentionality

More colorful and vibrant than the

slow down enough so I could recognize

to follow in His mysteriously, blessed

highest of high definitions could portray

and appreciate the way He looks at me

ways, He’ll open your eyes just as He did

are each one of my experiences out on

and smiles.

mine. And with that kind of awareness,

display. Only He could paint such a por-

To live in awe is to live aware. And it’s

trait. But it’s an honor to let my life, my

to let God do what He does best. My hope

our expectations through the roofs of

way of living, be an attraction of some

is that a simple tasting of a reflection of

small thinking. I plead with you from a

sort, a welcomed invitation for others to

my experiences would drive you deeper

generous place of awe: let Him in more

come alive.

into your own. If you haven’t yet, don’t

and learn to seriously live with Him in

wait to let Him invade your space and

every single moment. Hand in hand with

to God’s way of thinking, the more I’m

make things better. Truly, His presence is

Jesus, I promise you won’t ever regret the

awakened to believe that the truths I’ve

enough. From that point, if we really let

privilege of continually living in awe.

been given are valuable, more precious

Him change us from the inside out, there

The more I grow and open myself

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He’ll keep outdoing Himself. He’ll blow

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Photo by Warren Wong

The God Who Sees Me + ROOTS

A collaboration of Adena Hodges & Sandi Padilla

El ROI ave you ever felt invis-

unseen, unheard and essentially invisible.

with them. Why did they think they could

ible? Most of us have at

The questions arise, “Does anyone really

hide from Him?

one time or another. To

know me?” “Does anyone care?” “Does

some it might seem a

anyone want me, for me?” Sometimes,

GUILT. FEAR. SHAME. PRIDE.

cool superhero ability to

when we feel unseen, we try to play hide

Hagar felt that way. A slave taken from

have. Yet, at the heart of it, we all have a

and seek with God. Adam and Eve tried.

her homeland of Egypt. Used and abused.

desire to be seen and known for who we

But God already knew they had crossed

Forced to conceive a child, and then de-

truly are.

the boundary He had set. Sadly, they

spised by a jealous wife. (If you haven’t

God created us with this desire—to be

had eaten from the forbidden tree of the

read the story recently, check out Genesis

seen and known as a unique individual.

knowledge of good and evil. He was the

16.) Abraham gave Sarah permission to

Not one among many, but special, set-

One who created them, knew every detail

do whatever she wanted to Hagar. After

apart, and amazing. Yet most live feeling

about them, and daily walked and talked

treating her harshly, Hagar fled.

H

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The interesting thing is that the name

long before she was tired and worn out

God ask her to return to Sarai when it

“Hagar” has a possible meaning of “to

from her rugged journey. Maybe as she sat

was such a difficult situation for her? In

flee.” Hagar did what her name indicat-

at the well to draw water she saw her re-

the next part of the story we receive the

ed, seeking to run from her troubles and

flection glistening back at her. Did Hagar’s

answer. The angel said, “I will increase

hope for something better. Many times,

tears fall making ripples in the water as

your descendants so much that they will

we too want to get far away from what-

she dared to cry out, “Does God even see

be too numerous to count.” He also told

ever is currently bothering us, believing

me? Does He even care?” I imagine that at

her the details of her situation. “You are

that something “over there” must be bet-

some point she may have feared for her

now pregnant and you will give birth to a

ter than our present circumstances. But

life; and with every breath she could mus-

son. You shall name him Ishmael for the

running isn’t the answer. Hagar ended up

ter, she probably began praying to God for

Lord has heard of your misery,” the angel

in the wilderness, alone, fearful and re-

help.

told her. (The name Ishmael means, “God

Hagar replied: “I’m fleeing from the

hears.”)

Fortunately, that isn’t the end of the

presence of my mistress, Sarai.” She could

Hagar came from Egypt where many

story. God met Hagar where she was.

tell God where she’d come from, but she

gods were worshipped. We don’t know

He saw her. Really saw her. God asked

had no clue what was next. Hagar was in

how many she was forced to worship in

her,

“Where

have

her experience there. We don’t

you come from and

even know how much she

where are you go-

knew of the Hebrew God from

ing?” (Genesis 16:8).

God didn’t ask the question because He needed

information,

but because of what the

question

would

unlock for her. It was a moment for Hagar to take stock of her situation. Where had she been and where was she going? Before God can speak into our lives and give us direction, we need to

“In that moment, she experienced a

Abraham and Sarah before this encounter. But it changed her. She could probably recite the names of many gods and their attributes, but this was a God who saw her, not as one of

God who knew the

many in a crowd of worship-

deepest parts of

perienced a God who knew the

her and cared for

understand how we got to where we are and where we think we are going.

her intimately.”

pers, but for who she really was. In that moment, she exdeepest parts of her and cared for her intimately. It rocked her world.

It was then that Hagar gave the name “El Roi” to the Lord who spoke to her because she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me” (Genesis 16:13). And just as it was fore-

Are you and I that

told, Hagar bore Abram a son,

different from Hagar?

Abram named him Ishmael. As

Our reactions to crisis

God met Hagar in her most des-

and chaos in our lives often reveal that we

a very difficult situation—pregnant, alone

olate hour, He showed her divine love and

believe it’s easier to run away or escape

and without any resources, yet God cared

care. As she responded in obedience and

from our problems. We bury ourselves

enough for her to personally visit her.

faith He blessed her whole family.

in work, numb our minds with TV, mov-

He knew her past, her present and had a

Why did she do what the Lord said?

ies and media or possibly just check out

plan for her future. No matter the mess

Because He didn’t just tell her what to do.

and sleep our troubles away. Incredibly,

that had been made, God still cared about

He saw her. Not just a causal glance, but

God relentlessly chases us, finds us and

Hagar.

a deep, penetrating gaze. He didn’t paint

meets us right where we are. For Hagar,

Then in the darkest hour, Hagar heard

a rosy picture or give her great promises.

that was right in the middle of the desert.

the angel’s instructions to go back to her

He spoke the truth and He saw her. That

Alone and desperate, I’m sure it wasn’t

mistress and submit to her. How could

look changed everything.

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jected—a pregnant, run-away slave.

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Psalm 33:18 says, “The eyes of the Lord are

vided attention.

upon even the weakest worshipers who love

And you don’t need to work to earn it. You

him––those who wait in hope and expecta-

might have had parents who you felt you

tion for the strong, steady love of God.” (TPT)

needed to please (or act out) to get their atten-

Whether you feel like it or not, He sees you.

tion. But with God, you already have His fo-

Not in a scary or judgmental way, but with

cused gaze. Every moment of every day, He is

infinite compassion and mercy. If, like Hagar,

right there, ready to have a conversation with

+ ROOTS

“But with God, you already have His focused gaze. Every moment, every day, He is right there . . .” you’ve gotten off track or have been used

What we can know for sure is what the

encouragement about your future and to re-

Psalmist David reminds us, “Behold the eye

deem your past. His love never fails. If you

of the Lord is upon them that fear Him, and

feel alone and a failure, He wants to bring

upon them that hope in His mercy” (Psalm

hope for your future. In Jeremiah 29:11 God

38:18-19). Another beautiful promise is that

says, “For I know the plans I have for you,”

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-pres-

says the Lord. “They are plans for good and

ent help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

you, to smile and sing over you. He sees you.

or abused by others, He is ready to give you

The truth is that God sees our secrets. God knows our battle scars. God sees our strength.

Ponder these words from Psalm 121, “He

Today, we can rely on God, our “El Roi,” and

will not let your foot slip. He who watches you

gratefully receive the gift of His presence. He

will not slumber, The Lord watches over you,

is unceasingly watching us and unfolding His

The Lord will keep you from all harm, He will

perfect plan for our lives. And just like Hagar

watch over your life––watch your coming and

we will find that when God is at work His

going both now and for evermore.” As little

providence always leads to a promise. What

kids we might have thought at first that our

we need is to encounter the God who sees

parents never slept, but they did. However, El

us intimately because that look––it changes

Roi never sleeps. You always have his undi-

everything.

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BY PAYTON FRANCES CARTY

ISOLATION VS. INTIMACY Take a moment and meditate on these words, “So do not fear,

how to do it better ourselves,

for I am with you; do not be dismayed,

message is built on isolation.

for I am your God. I will strengthen you

You don’t have to be like the

and help you; I will uphold you with my

guy from “Into the Wild” to be

righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). If

considered in isolation. You

you are anything like me though, you

can be at your work desk. You

probably just skimmed the words and

can be on a run. You can be at

continued reading on. If that’s the case,

the dinner table. It’s not your

pause once more and soak in those words

circumstances in the natural

above. Take time to close your eyes and

that isolate you. Instead, it’s a

imagine Jesus sitting with you. Then,

position of the heart.

listen for as he says, “[your name] don’t fear, I am with you.”

This is a pretty revolutionary concept.

in our own strength. This

Simply put, isolation is being unaware of the true reality at work; God with you,

God declaring He is with us, always. It’s

always. We are designed for

actually really radical and completely

relationship and our soul

unobtainable for a human being. No

thirsts and longs for such intimacy. God

that is found when you realize God is

human can be with us always, and if you

never asks us to be isolated. He never

with you. It’s unlike anything the world

think someone is, well, they might just be

says, “Go get quiet by yourself, away

can offer. You know it deep within you

a stalker.

from me for a minute, and then return.”

but it’s only received as a gift. To become

In our culture today the message of

He never says, “I’ll help you with that,

dull to this gift, is to be pulled into isola-

“isolation” may not seem like it is being

but that other stuff... I need you to do

tion.

preached but I can assure you, it is. The

alone.” This is not the heart of the Father.

This intimacy with Him is an invita-

term “isolation” is just masked by things

The Father's heart is always intimacy.

tion, never a demand. Things like anxiety,

Instead of isolation, God invites us to

restlessness, doubt, or worry demand

like: busyness, self-improvement, or constant self-obsession. To be alive in 2019

intimacy—to a life where He is with us,

themselves upon us and will impose our

is to be bombarded with messages on

always. Emmanuel. There is a security

every world if there is no acknowledg-

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2019

adding more busyness (isolation) I begin to sit for a second and say to myself, “Oh my goodness, God is with me right now.”

I’m telling you the minute I acknowledge not just His presence but Him being with me, something inside me gently shifts like a peaceful river flowing through.

Keep in mind, we don’t just turn towards intimacy but we keep turning towards intimacy. It’s a constant turning, not a one-time arrival.

Anxiety and busyness have become so accustomed in our culture because we’ve been under their control for years.

The battle in our own efforts is exhausting because the truth is: the fruit of anxiety is always more anxiety.

I propose, if we took the time we give to worry or anxious thoughts and began

"The battle in our own efforts is exhausting because the truth is: the fruit of anxiety is always more anxiety.”

to shift our mindset to “God is with me, always” there would be an increase in photo by Yanapi Senaud

faith, peace, and joy. This is what God has made us to live in! This is the abundant life. The fruit of the Holy Spirit (God with

ment of God being with us.

Let me give you a practical example of how I have been returning to the Father’s heart of intimacy. At work, when

us, always) is: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Now, take another moment and ask

my mind begins to wander I find myself

yourself this question, “Am I actually

immediately being overwhelmed with

aware God is with me, always?” Then, sit

my task list. Usually, I would stay in my

with your honest answer and ask Him to

head and come up with a plan how to

help your heart turn from isolation to in-

conquer the tasks so I “feel” relieved or

timacy. This is a process; don’t get weary.

better. However, I have been noticing

And remember, He is always with you.

this destructive pattern and instead of

Don’t just turn. Keep on turning.

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Payton Carty works at Jesus Culture, lives in San Luis Obispo and loves to write.

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+ WARRIOR CRY

EMPOWERED IDENTITY + BY BRALYNN NEWBY

his season of contending for

connection of heaven to earth, as well as

hours at a time. I was broken, but un-

my destiny has been long

a stake in the ground claiming promises

willing to give up. I vavved my healing,

and arduous. I’ve cried out

and territory. We were all “vavving”

I vavved restoration of my finances, and

to God in total desperation

everything we thought God was giving

probably even vavved a new husband.

and submission so many times I’ve lost

us, and everything we were wanting him

I figured if God turned his heart around

count. Like many of us in the body of

to give us. A lot of spiritual territory was

or gave me a different guy, either way it

Christ, I’ve swung from high points of

taken, but not too much manifested in

would be a new one. (I’m still believing

determination and soaring in my spiri-

the 3D world.

for that particular vav.)

T

tual journey, to the day to day slogging

That year was personally devastating

My office is above an Aikido dojo,

through the quagmire of life. On again,

for me as my marriage fell apart, my

where I often slip out of my shoes and

off again...yet hopeful and believing the

health deteriorated to the point of being

walk around and around on the mat,

promises of God and prophetic words

bedridden for several weeks, and I was

praising, singing and praying in tongues

spoken over my life.

homeless and couch surfing. My busi-

when no one else is in the building.

ness tanked while I attended Al-Anon,

One day I was travailing, tears and snot

year 5776, which was the year of “Ayin

went through inner healing counseling,

streaming (yeah, it’s not pretty when I

Vav.” In short, the vav was a point of

prayed, worshipped, and soaked for

really get going). I had picked a bokken

September of 2015 began the Hebrew

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(wooden practice sword) off the rack and

perfect companion to his Lion, it felt

and getting orders directly from God are

was trying to slash my heartbreak away.

absolutely... right. I’ve always identified

the most effective strategies, but how we

My wrists were screaming in pain, but I

more with cats than with dogs, although

carry them out to do damage to the king-

kept at it. At one point I felt God say, “Just

I love both as pets. Lionesses are the

dom of darkness depends on our design,

drop it. You don’t need to suffer to fight.”

hunters, the feeders of the pride, working

and our level of equipping.

I just dropped it on the mat and blub-

with precision and complex collabora-

bered, “But God, I need a breakthrough, I

tion skills. I don’t have to do what I was

unique identity is the extent to which you

am so done. I want my life back together.

designed and destined to do alone. I can

will be able to battle effectively. Just like

The extent to which you know your

I don’t know what to do!”

in business, where you can

Instead of taking away

grow exponentially by con-

my pain, he told me who

centrating on honing your

I was. He said, “You don’t

natural strengths, and only

“THE EXTENT TO WHICH YOU

need a sword. You are my weapon.” I hit my knees, “God, I can’t be a weapon, I can barely get out of bed

KNOW YOUR UNIQUE IDENTITY IS THE EXTENT TO WHICH

some days,” as I wept so hard I could barely catch I saw an image of a lioness, and I knew she was me. tered Jesus in the Spirit

YOUR STRENGTHS, YOUR

as the Lion of Judah after years of not being able to him as a man. The context

YOUR ASSIGNMENT IN ORDER

I had for men was tainted because my relationships with men in my life had been abusive, manipulative,

TO TRAIN APPROPRIATELY FOR

and sexual. I couldn’t think about my Lord and Savior in that way.

MAXIMUM EFFECTIVENESS."

One Thursday morning

same. You must know your

assignment in order to train appropriately for maximum effectiveness.

When you know your identity, you will be able to quickly know if a training

GIFTING, YOUR WIRING, AND

relate to him because I saw

es, spiritual warfare is the

your wiring, and your

EFFECTLY... YOU MUST KNOW

I had recently encoun-

to improve your weakness-

strengths, your gifting,

YOU WILL BE ABLE TO BATTLE

my breath. In that moment

grow marginally by trying

is for you or not. You’ll find that a speaker, book, conference, video, etc. will resonate with you, and you can pursue growing your spiritual muscle. If you don’t know your unique design, equipping with the wrong gear will fall flat.

Just like David was not able to wear Saul’s armor, you

at the Moxie Upper Room

can’t put on my lioness gear

in Loomis, California I was

if you’re supposed to love

soaking and doing my best to engage in

fully live out my unique destiny, which

worship. Amy Gottlieb was leading our

includes warring, contending for myself,

Spirit encounter with a heavy anointing.

for others, and for the government of

your identity are www.DokimosProject.

A man came to the microphone and told

God to become reality on earth—with

com, and the Ultimate Impact Series,

us that Jesus had just entered the room as

others. And so can you.

which also equips you for spiritual war-

the Lion of Judah. Suddenly I could con-

Since I discovered my own warrior

people with a gentle, endearing spirit.

Two terrific resources for discovering

fare and other spiritual activities. That

nect with him! I could run and play and

identity a few years ago, the call I’ve

website is www.UltimateImpactMove-

ride him and snuggle into his mane and

heard is to lock arms with fellow war-

ment.com. I encourage you to go through

be totally engrossed in his presence.

riors to become the army of God. Each of

these programs, which will also connect

So when he showed me myself as a

us has a unique warrior identity. What is

you to like-minded warriors on their

powerful, beautiful, warrior lioness—the

your battlefield specialty? Love, worship,

journey to mature sons in the Kingdom. M

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THE PRESENCE

BY NISSI GUIAO

T “BEHOLD, I’M STANDING AT THE DOOR,

here is nothing more extravagant,

our Holy Maker is derived. We have

more marvelous and exuberant yet

access, but all thanks to Jesus.

rich and powerful, than the manifest presence of God. To experience His

presence is to experience Him. When He shows up,

step one, however. “Jesus explained, ‘I

everything changes. All we have to do is open our

am the Way, I am the Truth, and I am the

hearts to Him.

Life. No one comes next to the Father

In all of its chaos and destruction, God’s presence

KNOCKING. IF YOUR HEART IS OPEN TO HEAR MY VOICE AND YOU OPEN THE DOOR

me is to know my Father too’” (John

made better. His presence is what we need—and

14:6 TPT). The emphasis on “union” is of

not merely to survive, but to live by on a daily basis.

much importance.

(REVELATION 3:20 TPT).

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

Over the course of time, union with

our awareness and our intentionality in pursuit of

Jesus has been cheapened to a single

more of Him and His unfathomable goodness.

(not typically heart-felt and sometimes

WITH YOU, AND YOU WILL FEAST WITH ME”

except through union with me. To know

is entirely what the world needs to be healed and

Simply accessible, however, it is fully dependent on

WITHIN, I WILL COME IN TO YOU AND FEAST

Accepting Jesus, choosing to follow Him for the entirety of our lives, is only

forced) prayer. Though Romans 10:9-

FIRST THINGS FIRST

10 leads us through the first step to

How do we access it? We cannot bypass the Cross in

accessing the Presence, it does also imply

attempt to experience the Presence. In fact, we only

follow-through (that should no longer be

have access to it through Jesus’ death (in our place)

overlooked): “‘And what is God’s ‘living

as man, His burial and His resurrection on that third

message’? It is the revelation of faith for

day. We can’t forget the ultimate miracle that paves

salvation, which is the message that we

the way for us to enter sweet, deep and intimate

preach. For if you publicly declare with

relationship with the Father. This is the foundation

your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe

upon which our ability to connect and be close with

in your heart that God raised him from

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2018

photo by Mohamed Nohassi

the dead, you will experience salvation.

with Him by our side. This is the blessing;

higher priority than that, He loves when

The heart that believes in him receives

living our day-to-day lives in union with

we choose to connect to everything He

the gift of the righteousness of God—and

Him is the well from which all good and

does/wants to do in the world.

then the mouth gives thanks to salvation”

perfect things can spring forth. And this

(TPT). Salvation means that if we believe

is the path that leads us to accessing His

STAYING CONNECTED IS KEY

and if we confess, we are saved and gain

presence, especially on a more regular

Through safety and choosing to reside in

righteousness in Christ. But it doesn’t

basis.

the paralyzing confines of our comfort

stop there.

Unification is an on-going process once

zones, we can easily become guilty of

we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.

undermining and underestimating our

THE FOLLOW-THROUGH

This is the muscle that has unfortunate-

connection with the Father through

What are we saved from? And more so

ly gone limp in the realm of generic

Jesus. Complacency is a deadly, silent

to stay on topic, what are we saved to?

religion, leaving us in an immature state

killer. That being said, this is where our

What has been our downfall in Christian-

unprepared to welcome His presence

awareness of what we have access to (the

ity is stopping short in making salvation

in our midst. Unification is but another

Presence) becomes vitally important.

our end-game. When in reality, it is truly

word for relationship. In receiving our

When we know and understand what

the foundation for all life and all good

salvation, we in turn have the honor

we’re privileged to as heirs to the throne,

things. “Every good gift and every perfect

and privilege of becoming one with our

it releases us to pursue it. We can’t seek

gift is from above, coming down from

Heavenly Father, just as Jesus is. From

after what we don’t know exists. And

the Father of lights. . .” (James 1:17 ESV).

the point of our salvation, we gain an op-

the way we discover the power of His

The work that Jesus so graciously did for

portunity to hunger for real connection

presence in our midst is through building

us believers and for all of humanity was

with Him. What this looks like practically

and growing our relationship with Jesus.

so that we could be saved from death

is us intentionally inviting Him into

We have to take the time to get to know

and then, from that miraculous place of

every single area of our lives. He desires

Him; it is not a one-way relationship (and

salvation, be set free to fully live our lives

to be part of everything we do, and even

never has it been the case).

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let ourselves be overcome by the weight

had never seen anyone’s face radiate

invest in our connection with Jesus,

Day by day, if we take the time to

of God’s unconditional love, the more

with glory until then. He spent so much

we create the strongest bonds that no

that we realize there’s no other way

uninterrupted time with the Father that

outsider can destroy. This is the heart of

to live. Our hunger for the Presence is

his heavenly encounter was evident to

the Father and the basis for the creation

dependent upon our constant tasting of

everyone around him.

of humanity. He made us because He

it. When we taste, our eyes are opened

desires for us to know Him. He shaped

to see His goodness over and over again.

more and more of God’s presence and

us and breathed life into us so that we

When we keep tasting, we develop a

glory to be revealed to us, in us. It is in

could live in beautiful union with Him

healthy craving—the kind of hunger that

His presence that we become changed. A

and therefore experience the vastness

drives us to keep pursuing Him with all

part of life (a healthy one) is to continu-

of His presence that constantly changes

our might. We experience this when we

ally cultivate growth. When we can get

us for the better. Accessing His pres-

surrender daily and let His goodness

lost in the abundance of our relationship

ence—it was all part of His plan since the

overwhelm us time after time. It’s not

with Him, we can't help but to shine. It’s

beginning.

meant to be a one-time experience. And

up to God the extent He wants to reveal

when we feed into it and let Him fill us

Himself to us and to others around us,

gotiable when pursuing the Presence in

up, nothing else compares to what He has

but it’s up to us how deep we want to

hopes of accessing it. We can’t unplug

to offer. At that point, nothing else can

connect and how great of an example we

from God or remain distracted in the

satisfy us.

want to be for others to follow.

ence more of Him, let alone expect to rad-

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

makes me hunger for encounters of my

ically experience Him on a daily basis.

When we’re committed to feasting on His

own. In the same way, if we let God con-

The level of His presence that we get to

goodness, when we’ve unlocked the level

tinually change us and grow us through

experience is intertwined with the level

of relationship it takes to live in the Pres-

the power of His presence, people around

of our hunger for it. We have to want

ence, we have another solid opportunity

us have a good opportunity to authenti-

more of Him to get more of Him. Our

before us. Truly, getting to know and ex-

cally taste and see that He’s as good as we

prayers last week or even yesterday may

perience the presence of God is a gift that

know and believe. Our intimacy may be

have been strong, but we can’t expect it

we could not buy or access under our

personal in our own walks with the Lord,

to carry over into all of our todays. We

own steam. Once we find ourselves host-

but it is part of our mandate to shine His

have to keep pursuing Him. It’s vital, if

ing Him and His presence, our further

light for all to see. Matthew 5:14 encour-

we desire closeness, for us to live our

assignment rises to the surface. What we

ages us to do so, “Your lives light up the

lives hand-in-hand with Him. But we

learn to experience is not solely for the

world. Let others see your light from a

can’t forget that this dance of pursuit is

betterment of our lives, but it is meant to

distance. . .” (TPT). We can’t be stingy

and always will be initiated by Him. “We

be shared with the people around us. It’s

with what we’ve been given.

love because he first loved us” (1 John

never only about us.

Connection and relationship is non-ne-

busyness of life if we expect to experi-

4:19 ESV); therefore, we pursue because

This is what we should be asking for—

Reading about Moses’ encounter

The Presence, like God Himself, is too

Through the greatest gift of salvation

good for us to fully comprehend. So long

and union and intimate relationship, our

as we keep pursuing and deepening our

access to the Presence is the next best

intimacy with the Father, the Son and

A HEALTHY CRAVING

gift we’re granted. Once we learn this,

Holy Spirit, we’ll always have the gift

Beautiful relationship is a result of both

let it sink in where we start living it out

of unwrapping and experiencing “the

parties engaging and investing them-

for ourselves, it’s almost a rite of passage

more” that’s always in store for us. Ever

selves. The most stand-out, intimate ones

where we become positioned to give

since the Cross and the highest price

are full of His presence because there’s

away the treasure that we’ve so gracious-

Jesus paid for our freedom, our one job,

not a moment, even in trial and error,

ly received.

our privilege rather, has been to posture

he first pursues us.

that connection is turned off. The impor-

ourselves to receive what He has to offer.

tance of diving deeper cannot be stressed

SHINE, IT’S PART OF THE PACKAGE

We have the better end of the deal and

enough. If we stop giving our time and

When Moses came down from soaking in

that in itself should thrust us forward to

energy in the things of God, we eventual-

God’s presence on Mount Sinai, he caused

never stop hungering with the healthy

ly get stagnant and become useless in the

a scene that he wasn’t even aware of.

craving that attracts the unfathomable

Kingdom.

People were afraid to go near him when

presence of God.

The more that we inch further and

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

they first saw him simply because they

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THINK ABOUT IT

+ THINK ABOUT IT

Photo by Levi Saunders

EMPOWERED TO LOVE

BY JOEE GIBSON JOHNSON

I

heard this statement and

even though it may not be easily discern-

hallmark of a typical Church-recogniz-

it immediately resounded

able from the pews. Conversely, with

able ministry. In fact, it looks radically

in my heart. Yes! I am

the ministry of healing and deliverance

different.

empowered to love, but as

specifically, a minister without a heart

On November 15, 2018 I was invited by

easily as I stated such a phrase out loud

filled with a love like Jesus (for His peo-

a friend of mine, Cody Harman, to view

to myself in my very best Christianese

ple to be healed and set free) is much less

a documentary titled Man Made. This

accent, I also heard the Spirit of God ask,

likely to produce fruit from that ministry.

feature length documentary, produced

â&#x20AC;&#x153;But are you truly walking in the power

Over several years, my team and I had

by Tea Leoni, traces the varied lives of

of that love?â&#x20AC;? I could have answered this

seen many miracles, inner healings and

four transgender men, as they prepare

question easily if I was asked it a year

physical healings, and deliverances take

to step on stage at the only all-trans

ago. Up until that point I had been serv-

place, with all glory given to God.

bodybuilding competition in the world. It

ing in church leadership, regional prayer

Nevertheless, this question was not

was shown at the Crocker Arts Muse-

leadership, founded and directed a

asked of me prior to my Sabbatical over

um in Auburn as one of the featured

non-profit, taught, and served in healing

a year ago. It was asked a few months

presentations at the BENT Sacramento

and deliverance for many years. As those

ago and it gave me reason to pause. No

LGBTQ Film Festival during Transgender

who serve in ministry and those who are

longer did my life have the title, the

Awareness Week. Cody is a Sacramen-

recipients of it can attest, while a love

meetings, the conferences, the Sunday

to-based bodybuilder, chef, fitness coach

for Jesus should be the primary impetus,

requirements, the prayer sessions. It

and one of the contestants in the film. He

sadly, it is not always as it should be,

did not, nor does it currently, have the

is also a (ftm) transgender man with over

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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2019

250,000 followers on YouTube and known

loved “just as I am” by this community. I

Matthew 7:1-5 (ESV) while delivering

all over the world for documenting his

was shown a radical love. But, I have to

the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states,

transition from female to male. These are

ask the question “Why would I consider

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For

just a few ways the world would describe

it radical?” Love shouldn’t be radical. It

with the judgment you pronounce you

Cody. I didn’t know any of that when I

shouldn’t need an adjective to describe it.

will be judged, and with the measure you

met him. I’d describe him as one of the

Love should surround and permeate and

use it will be measured to you. Why do

humblest, kind, disciplined, and talented

encompass all people. That shouldn’t be a

you see the speck that is in your brother's

people I know. I was introduced to Cody

radical concept. Unfortunately, it is. I can

eye, but do not notice the log that is in

through a mutual friend on the way to

say from my great and lengthy experi-

your own eye? Or how can you say to

2018 Sacramento Pride some months be-

ence in Church, radical love (or just plain

your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out

fore. There I was, in a car with Cody, and

ol’ non-radical love for that matter) can

of your eye,’ when there is the log in your

another friend of mine who is a lesbian,

be sometimes hard to find. Many times,

own eye? You hypocrite first take the log

and another transgender male. I spent

Church is filled with judgement and

out of your own eye, and then you will

the day immersed in a place and in a

condemnation. Songs have been written

see clearly to take the speck out of your

culture of which I had never been a part.

that say we will be known as Christians

brother's eye.” Jesus speaks of judgment

I was kindly welcomed and very hum-

by our love. I’m going to go out on a limb

in this passage. He issues a warning: the

bled they would let me tag along. It was

here and say that this song should serve

judgment we show is the judgment we

during this car ride that a very spirited and lively, honest and respectful discussion took place regarding the Church, the Bible, the definitions of male and female roles in society, and so much more occurred. It was the first of many of these conversations that have continued over time and that hopefully will never stop. Due to some very

In fact, I asked Cody the question, "In your opinion, are Christians known more by their love or condemnation?" to which he replied, "definitely condemnation."

boring kind of happenstance did some of these friendships arise, but in God’s economy is there such a thing as coincidence? I think not. His Spirit was

more as a reminder than utilized as a

will receive. This should be a frightening

moving and manifested itself in ways

statement. If we ask the LGBTQ commu-

concept to some. Jesus also acknowledges

that when viewed with an undiscerning

nity if Christians are known by their love,

the hypocritical nature of humans and

eye could be criticized by the religious

the answer will most likely be a booming

especially those sitting in judgment of

mindset, but easily understood by those

"No." We are more likely to be known by

others. Therefore, another question that

not confined by a judgmental or self-righ-

our judgement. In fact, I asked Cody the

must be asked is why some choose to

teous spirit. It is my belief that conver-

question, “In your opinion, are Christians

ignore certain sins and focus on others.

sations such as these, in a respectful,

known more by their love or condem-

For example, why would a pastor rail

loving, non-judgmental environment will

nation?” to which he replied, “Definitely

from the pulpit regarding homosexuality,

be imperative in healing a relationship

condemnation.”

but refuse to speak about those in his

between Christians, specifically the West-

This begs the question, if we as the

congregation that are walking in some

ern Church, and the LGBTQ community.

Church are Christ-followers, and Jesus

other sin? Do they speak about the man

Admittedly, it is in my very limited ex-

didn’t come to condemn, why do we

who is beating his wife and child, or the

perience and exposure that I am able to

so often sit in judgement of others,

wife who is cheating on her husband,

speak; but I was welcomed, accepted, and

especially in the LGBTQ community? In

or the business man who is cheating on

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+ THINK ABOUT IT

his taxes, or the man or woman who got drunk the night before and is standing at the altar on the prayer team?

pears unequivocally male.

Or possibly the answer to the question

That isn’t my place. I can’t even fault the LGBTQ community for not loving Jesus.

is to look at condemnation from a spiri-

In fact, if Jesus has only been introduced

tual warfare perspective. Condemnation

as a Judge and not as a Liberator, Healer,

of Church funds, the elder who com-

and judgement can be attributed, in this

or Defender, why would anyone want to

mitted adultery, the pastor who solicits

case, to a religious spirit. A religious

know Him? I asked Cody, who grew up

prostitution? Are these the groups that he

spirit operates with many different

in a Baptist home and went to Chris-

speaks about? Not usually. If the Church

characteristics, attributes, personal-

tian school, “Who was Jesus to you as a

is going to focus on purity and insist

ities…partners, if you will. It utilizes

child?” He responded with “God’s Son

all the sinners leave the House of God,

condemnation, judgement, and shame

sent for us. He’s how we are saved.” I

then it will be an empty house, and that

to do its bidding. Think of the recipient

then asked, “Who is Jesus to you today?”

includes the office and the pulpit.

of the judgment. Once judged, they feel

To which he replied, “A good story.” He

rejected, abandoned, worthless, inferior.

then stated “If people followed what

all fallen short of the glory of God.” If we

These will breed self-loathing, self-ha-

Jesus actually teaches, it would look very

are to believe the Word, then that means

tred, can produce an addiction(s) to cope,

different. I’m actually kind of confused

ALL. Why is one particular group focused

escapism, hopelessness, depression, and

by that.” This answer comes from a per-

on? Is it possible the answer is because a

possibly eventually suicide. This religious

son who heard the stories and teachings

homosexual person might be (though not

spirit is entrenched in self-righteousness

of Jesus’ life, but cannot reconcile His

Does he speak about the mishandling

Romans 3:23 (ESV) states, “We have

teachings with the lives of His followers.

This answer should mean something to

He then stated, "If people followed what Jesus actually teaches, it would look very different. I'm actually very confused by that."

the Church.

It fails to live what Jesus teaches, and is a reason many people, regardless of their sexual orientation, leave the Church, or have no desire to walk into one. Hypocrisy abounds. Of course, this is a generalization of the Church and its people, but sadly the negativity will often speak louder than the humility and love.

It just stands to reason then, the humble and loving need to get louder and more radical!

There are so many divisions in Christianity. Too many to list, but homosexuality is a prominent choice of weapon.

Divisions of whether or not pastors can be gay, is it a sin to have same sex attraction but not act on it, should they be allowed to be in the House of God if they are openly living a homosexual lifestyle,

always an accurate assumption) easier to

and pride. All pride is rooted in fear.

identify, given their physical appearance?

So, what is the judge afraid of? Is it the

etc. The list goes on and on.

An adulterer is not easily identifiable in

possibility that their own sins might be

becoming addicted to drugs, being

the pew, especially not when our sole

discovered? Is it possible that they create

thrown out of their home, living over-

interaction is usually the obligatory “Hi.

a show of someone else’s shortcomings

come with depression, walking in fear of

How are you?” followed immediately

in order to divert attention? Is it possible

physical harm at school, at home or on

by “Great! Good to see you.” Ironically,

they too have same-sex desires? Is it pos-

the street, or killing themselves. And that

in one of our discussions, my lesbian

sibly a fear of what is unknown and not

represents just one age group. All of this

friend said she is more uncomfortable in

understood? It is possible. If it isn’t, why

is somehow justified to some in this way,

Church because she is identified easier

did Jesus address it in Matthew 7:1-5?

"Because they are in sin, they are disgust-

Meanwhile, there are teenage children

(and either given the face of pity or is

Romans 3:23 (ESV) states that we

ing, should be rejected or rehabilitated

ignored entirely) than my transgender

have all fallen short. I cannot judge or

or scorned." They are told this is what

friend, who by the naked eye alone ap-

determine who is saved or unsaved.

Jesus said so who can blame them for not

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

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2019

wanting to run to Him?

ed in love.” Who is love? According to

Each group has their arguments and

1 John 4:8, the answer is God. It states,

judgments, dogma, doctrine; and each

“Whoever does not love does not know

are convinced their position is right.

God, because God is love.” So, how do we

However, John 16:8 (ESV) in reference to

as a Church reach a community that does

the Holy Spirit states, “When he comes,

not usually want to hear about Jesus? We

he will convict the world concerning sin

love. How do we heal and bring recon-

and righteousness and judgment…” This

ciliation of the Church to God for having

verse does not say humans will convict

judged and condemned His children? We

the world, it says the Holy Spirit will

love. How do we bring reconciliation to

come. I trust the Holy Spirit much more

the LGBTQ community and the Church?

than I trust a human being, who know-

We love.

ingly or unknowingly, may allow their

It’s so simple. Jesus was about break-

flesh to determine sin and righteousness

ing it down for those of us who like to

and therefore walk in judgement. This

over-analyze and get caught up in the mi-

Scripture, in fact, releases us from a need

nutia. He said under the New Covenant,

to convict another human being in their

in Mark 12:30-31, the Greatest Command-

walk before God.

ment is this: “…Love the Lord your God

With all the various arguments and

with all your heart and with all your soul

loud voices, it’s possible to get confused

and with all your mind and with all your

and consequently become complacent.

strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your

It’s also difficult sometimes for people to

neighbor as yourself.’ No other com-

stand up or even question the status quo.

mandment is greater than these.” This

Add to that, purposefully loving a people

shouldn’t be radical, but it is. It’s radical

group that is outside the mainstream

to love this way, when our human nature

Christian bubble who are solely meant

is to judge and condemn. Through the

to be either scolded, ostracized or pitied.

Greatest Commandment, we have been

To that I would reference Jesus and the

empowered to love!

countless times He was with the outcast,

Daily we need to ask ourselves if we

the downtrodden, the leper, the pariah.

are loving radically. Today, I can answer

I’d appeal to them and ask the proverbial

this question with a decisive "Yes." It

WWJD, “What would Jesus do?” Certainly,

doesn’t look the way it used to, but it’s

if the LGBTQ community is viewed as

not supposed to. Love is all that’s needed.

such, how can they not be a group that is

No conferences, no meetings, no teach-

sought after in love?

ings on who Jesus is and His power. No

If we trace judgment and condemna-

need to pursue an outcome. Just love. If

tion to the religious spirit, that we have

we do it by God’s Spirit, they will know us

previously established is motivated by

by our love. I’d be remiss if I didn’t share

pride, and acknowledge the pride is

from experience, this kind of love will

really covering for fear, then we have to

cost each of us something. If we are to

ask the question, "What conquers fear?"

sit with those who are being judged, we

According to 1 John 4:18, the answer is

can guarantee the gavel will come down

simple. It’s love. It states, “There is no

on us as well. We can take heart though.

fear in love, but perfect love casts out

We are in good company and “love never

fear. For fear has to do with punishment,

fails” (1 Cor.13:8).

and whoever fears has not been perfect-

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+ THINK ABOUT IT

LOVE POWER AND SOUNDNESS

Our Perfect You Identity: Teaching From Neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf + By Bralynn Newby

W

hen God said we were given

The law of quantum entanglement

the spirit of love, power and

says that particles (people) once in any

one we are in relationship with.

a sound mind in 2 Timothy

sort of relationship—even just passing

processing at 400 billion actions per

1:17, we now know through

Even as you’re reading this, you are

through Grand Central Station at the

second. Each new stimuli that comes

science that we actually ARE love,

same time—are always in relationship.

into your mind through your senses, or

power and soundness. What follows is a

The love waves we are, and exist in, are

each memory that comes up from your

compilation of Dr. Caroline Leaf’s work,

essentially intermingled with the love

mind, causes a thought. The moment

mainly her research and findings in her

waves of everyone else. What we think

where particles are primed and built up

book Switch on Your Brain: The Key to

and do affects them, and visa versa. We

to something about to happen, much like

Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health.

are designed to be love, and show the

a wave about to crash on the beach, is

world what love (God) looks like. In the

called superposition. It’s this moment of

LOVE

physical realm, we express love through

choice where you shape your reality by

The physical structure of our brain is

our words and actions. In the quantum

making a decision. Once the decision is

wired for love. There is nothing: no cells,

(spiritual) realm, our love is expressed in

made, the wave collapses and causes a

no synapses nor processes that were

thought. That’s why God equated hate to

genetic expression which builds proteins

designed for fear, sickness or toxicity.

murder in 1 John 3:15.

that store information, and a branch is

Makes sense—we were created in God’s image.

Quantum physics is considered to be

created. This is how we literally turn

THE LOVE BONUS:

thoughts into reality...creating matter out

Science shows that all energy comes from

of our minds.

the most accurate of all sciences, and

a supernatural force, and everything

Because we are making choices every

is foundational because it explains the

alive would die. And everything that

moment of every day, we are constantly

formation and mechanics of our physical

works, such as electricity, computers,

changing and rearranging the architec-

world. It is the study of energy, and exists

cars, etc, would stop if God were not

ture of our brains.

outside of space and time. The laws in

emitting his love energy.

THE POWER BONUS:

the quantum realm work differently than the laws in the physical realm we’re used

POWER

Research shows that our thoughts affect

to. Understanding quantum physics helps

We are equipped and able to change our

our DNA significantly more than our

us understand Scripture, what God really

brain and change our life. Our thoughts

genetic material. In fact, our thoughts

meant, and how applying Scripture in

exist as physical structures that look like

are up to 98% responsible for how we

our lives actually works.

trees in our brain. Every thought, feeling,

physically function. Dr. Leaf says, “The

and choice changes the architecture of

quality of the health of every cell in your

ergy. Sir Roger Penrose, award winning

our brain. We can either create distorted,

brain and body is dependant upon how

physicist and mathematician, discov-

toxic trees—dendrites, to be exact—or

you think.”

ered that we are actually love energy.

we can maintain and create vibrant,

Although he doesn’t know God the way

life-giving neural pathways in keeping

SOUNDNESS

we do, he uses quantum physics and

with our default design. Therefore, we

The World Health Organization defines

mathematics to show that we are, in fact,

are powerful beyond belief. Think about

mental health (a sound mind) as, “A state

created in God’s image: love. Not only

it. We can change the physical structure

of well-being in which every individual

are we individual waves of love energy,

of our brain, and change the energy that

realizes his or her own potential, [which]

but we are immersed in waves of love

we emit, to the point of creating our own

can cope with the normal stresses of life,

energy.

reality, and changing the reality of every-

can work productively and fruitfully, and

We, and everything that exists, is en-

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+ THINK ABOUT IT

is able to make a contribution to her or

and make sure the old one is completely

impacting your life, your family, your

his community.”

broken off (and they do literally fall off

work, and so on.

Soundness is our default wiring. Any-

and get reabsorbed), you must complete

thing negative, diseased, fear-based or

2 more cycles of 21 days, for a total of 63

toxic in our brain is an aberration-unnat-

days to change your brain and change

STEP 5: ACTIVE REACH - 30-60 SECONDS

ural. So when God tells us to take every

your life.

Decide what actions you will take from

thought captive in 2 Corinthians 10:5,

when you do this exercise until the following day’s exercise. Caroline uses her

of your mind" in Romans 12:2, he wasn’t

STEP 1: GATHER AWARENESS - 90 SECONDS

kidding. Not only do we have the power

On day 1 identify a thought pattern you

things to be perfect. For the first few days

to intentionally do these things, we have

would like to change. You can always

her active reach was to count how many

been commanded to live in soundness as

ask God to help you pinpoint what you

times she said/thought it, and to turn it

he designed us.

need to work on. On subsequent days

around with gratitude and being present

We must discipline our thought-life

you’ll remember and reconceptualize

to what was actually going on.

with deliberate and intentional thought

this same thought pattern. So the first

training. It’s totally doable, and we’re

step that you’ll do for about 90 seconds

cited about the progress you’ve made on

wired to do it. It just takes practice

every day for 21 days is focused on the

this thought, and want to jump to chang-

and consistency. Dr. Leaf explains that

same thought pattern you are working

ing a new thought pattern. Don't. Stick to

we have the power to check in on our

on changing. Gather information from

the same thought for the full 21 days.

thoughts every 10 seconds to make a

your five senses and from memories, and

moment by moment course correction to

notice what you are experiencing.

and "to be transformed by the renewing

stay in love and soundness.

“If Only…” thought pattern of wanting

Warning 3: You will begin to get ex-

I’m looking forward to doing this 21Day Brain Detox Challenge! I hope this inspired you to take your own thoughts captive, and begin reaping the benefits

THE SOUNDNESS BONUS:

STEP 2: FOCUSED REFLECTION - 90 SECONDS

If you’re like me, you have tons of ques-

Ask what this thought pattern means,

brings. Here’s to your new and improved

tions, and you’re also intrigued. For the

answer questions you pose around it,

mind!

questions, I would recommend watching

and have a mental discussion about the

Dr. Leaf’s videos, reading her books,

thought pattern and the emotions, expe-

and using the resources she has on her

riences, and consequences it has had.

website: www.DrLeaf.com. summary of how you can begin to create

STEP 3: WRITE IT DOWN - A FEW MINUTES...VARIES

a new reality for yourself right now. This

Day 1 will probably be a jumbled mess

is Dr. Leaf’s 5-Step 21-Day Brain Detox

as you jot down words that represent the

technique from Switch on Your Brain,

rabbit trails of related thoughts, but don’t

which she developed from 25 years in

worry about that. This step will get better

clinical practice and trials.

as you go along.

As far as being intrigued, here’s a juicy

It takes only 7-16 minutes per day, and must be done every day for 21 days.

Warning 1: If you stop before 21 days,

STEP 4: REVISIT & REFLECT - A FEW MINUTES...VARIES

everything you have worked for will

Look at what you have written down.

literally go up in smoke. Seriously. The

Day 1 will be quick, but as each day

new dendrite thought branches you build

progresses you will go back 1 or more

in your brain will denature and melt into

days in your journal. What did you learn

heat energy—poof, gone.

from doing the previous day’s exercises?

Warning 2: In order to solidify the bond

You might notice, or be able to define

of the new thought branch on your tree,

more clearly, how this toxic thought is

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

82

of the transformation a renewed mind

Several YouTube Videos were used for this research: Podcast Episode #55: Let's talk about Quantum Physics by Dr. Caroline Leaf Detoxing Your Mind: An Interview With Dr. Caroline Leaf by Elevation Church How To Detox Your Brain, Dr Caroline Leaf (Parts 1, 2 & 3) by Dave Mann Blueprint for Identity Dr. Caroline Leaf by Living Word Christian Center The Perfect You Dr. Leaf also has tons of great content on her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/drleaf

2019

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2019

EMPOWERED TO FACE TOUGH QUESTIONS hen my husband Cheyne and I went

W

seeds were always there. It’s that 1%.

in for pre-marital counseling, we

Do you know your 1%? What tough questions

had no idea what was about

do you have about your faith? What confuses you?

to hit us. I was naive and

What offends you? What sections of Scripture would

thought it would be fun.

you remove if given the option? Are there any major

Talking about your relation-

doctrines you’d love to revise?

ship is fun, right?

Wrong. Little did I real-

Our marriage counselor knew he couldn’t save us from problems, but he could teach us to fight

ize, our counselor’s whole

through them. Like every relationship, we also have

goal was to make us fight. I

a choice with God. We can ignore the problem areas,

remember the first counseling

refuse to have the hard conversations, and just hope

appointment that didn’t end so well. I remember the painful,

awkward silence as Cheyne and I sat

that when tough times hit our relationship, we'll make it. Or, we can have the conversations now and search for a solution.

there and realized that there was a problem and no

How do we do this? How do we face the tough

solution in sight. I remember being frustrated with

questions we have about our faith? Here’s my best

our counselor. Why was he zeroing in on the 1% of

advice.

our relationship that was tough, instead of helping us build on the 99% that was great? Many moments since then, I’ve realized what a genius he was and how important those sessions were.

1

ACKNOWLEDGE THE QUESTIONS

Get honest. Get very, very honest with God and each other. Most Christians I meet have a tough question

When it comes to our faith we’re tempted to focus on the 99% that’s going great. We ignore, even suppress, the 1%—those questions that pop up when

about God. But they ignore it. They seem to believe that avoiding the question is the way to please God. But no relationship thrives on dishonesty.

we read the Old Testament, the way we feel when

Sometimes we’re so full of faith that our questions

another shooting happens, our fear when an intelli-

don’t bother us. If this is your season, great! Don’t

gent person starts to explain why they can’t believe

create problems in your relationship with God. But

in Christianity.

if you’re avoiding asking God the tough questions

We ignore the 1% believing that’s the good thing to do. The problem is, people don’t get divorces over the 99%. And people don’t lose their faith over the 99%. It’s about that 1%.

because you think it’s inappropriate, I invite you to rethink this.

Consider the Psalms. Isaiah. Lamentations. Habakuk. The authors of these books knew God well.

Inside each person is the seed of a problem that

They had a deep and honest relationship with the

could lead us to abandon our faith. Those seeds get

Lord and these books are full of tough questions.

activated when we go through tragedy or when we

These believers understood that God is omniscient—

see something we want that God won’t let us have.

He knows what you think better than you. He’s

They get activated when we no longer have a small-

aware of every corner of your mind. Stop trying to

group and find ourselves skipping church on the

hide your questions. Allow God to search you and

weekend.

show you what questions you have.

Inside the Church, we’re often shocked when

Great communication is the key to every relation-

people walk away from God just like we’re shocked

ship and your relationship with God is no different.

when a couple abruptly ends their marriage. But the

All good conversations begin with questions.

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+ THINK ABOUT IT

the world. Nine times out of ten the lie

“I do believe, help my unbelief” (Mark

DON’T BE A BRAT

was born when someone filled silence

9:14-29).

God can take your anger, God can take

with reason rather than waiting (read the

your sorrow. God can deal with the less

book of Job). Just because it makes sense

lieving even when you have doubts. Tell

admirable aspects of your personality.

doesn’t mean it’s true. Philosophy books

Jesus “I do believe, help me overcome my

If you’re choosing between honesty

are full of theories that make sense but

unbelief.” Continue to worship, to pray,

and politeness, choose honesty. That’s

aren’t true.

and believe that God is with you in this

2

It’s possible and necessary to keep be-

certainly what David did in the Psalms.

So embrace the awkward silence.

But at some point, you need to own your

“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take

process.

responsibility to approach this conversa-

heart and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm

not been left alone with our tough ques-

tion with an open mind and open heart.

Colossians 2 makes it clear that we’ve

27:14). Don’t let fear or discomfort dictate

tions. We’ve been empowered to face

Don’t be a brat. A brat wants their way

the conversation. Wait for the Lord to

them. Paul writes that he wants believ-

and doesn’t care about anyone else in the

to bring an answer. You may find that

ers to “have the full riches of complete

world. A brat asks all the right questions

His answers sound a lot like questions.

understanding, in order that they may

and doesn’t want to hear the answers.

Let Him ask you those questions. This is,

know the mystery of God, namely, Christ,

God loves brats just like he loves tax

after all, a conversation.

in whom are hidden all the treasures

collectors and if that’s where you’re at, he will meet you there. But it’s hard to have a good conversation with a brat.

How do you avoid being a brat when

of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians

4

2:2-3).

FIND THE EXPERT

In the past 2000 years of Christian his-

It’s okay to desire and seek better

tory, there’s nothing new under the sun.

understanding. Yes, we know only in part

asking God the tough questions? Start by

We tend to think our questions about

now and one day we shall know fully (1

saying “God, I feel like a brat. Help me to

God are new and dangerous threats to

Corinthians 13:12). But do we have com-

have an open mind and an open heart to

the faith. Christianity has outlasted every

plete understanding of the part that God

have this conversation with You.” Pray

tough question and not from ignoring

has revealed to us?

that prayer as many times as you need to

them. For every question out there,

pray it. Don’t muster up goodness—stay

there’s someone who has devoted their

questions so we can know Him better? To

honest and ask God to help you deal with

life to answering that question. Find the

know His plan better? What if there are

anything that is making you closed off

expert.

great answers to the tough questions and

to hearing good answers to the tough questions.

One note of caution—it’s extremely

I discourage you from entering your question into google. I encourage you to

What if God wants us to ask Him

we simply aren’t pursuing them?

When you have a tough question, don’t

google “apologetics” and the names John

hide it from God. Don’t push it away as

important in a season of questioning

Lennox, William Lane Craig, and Alvin

though you’re afraid He doesn’t have

that you keep reading your Bible, you

Plantinga. Here are four of my favorite

the answer. Believe what the Scriptures

keep going to church, you keep obeying

books to recommend to people exploring

say. In Christ is hidden “all the treasures

his commandments. You need His voice

the tough questions (and truly, these are

of wisdom and knowledge.” This truth

and His people more than ever. You need

just the beginning):

empowers us to face our tough questions.

to stay close to the Father to hear his

1. The Problem of God: Answering a

The answers are in Christ, not apart from

answers and receive his help. Sin distanc-

Skeptic’s Challenges to Christianity by

Him. So bring those questions to the one

es us from God, so now is not the time to

Mark Clark

that has the answers.

disobey what He says in Corinthians because you doubt what He says in Genesis.

2. Can Man Live without God? by Ravi Zacharias

Face your 1%. Your relationship with the Lord will deepen and you’ll be em-

Don’t disobey because you’re having to

3. The Story of Reality by Greg Koukl

powered to help others face their tough

wait for what you want. Don’t be a brat.

4. Good Faith: Being a Christian

questions. The best marriage counselors

when Society Thinks You’re Irrelevant

are the ones who’ve fought for their own

GET COMFORTABLE WITH AWKWARD

and Extreme by Gabe Lyons and David

marriage. So start the conversation. He’s

I wish I could tell you this process is

Kinnaman

there waiting to hear your questions.

3

easy. But that would be a lie. Hard conversations are never fun. They’re full of anger and sometimes tears. But mostly

5

KEEP EXPRESSING FAITH

One of my favorite stories in Scripture

they’re full of waiting. And waiting is

is of a father who brings his demon-pos-

awkward.

sessed boy to Jesus and pleads “heal

Resist the temptation to fill the silence.

him if you can.” Jesus says, “If you can?

I’ve heard people share devastating lies

Everything is possible for him who

they believe about God, themselves and

believes.” The man’s response is perfect:

ISSUE 6 + EMPOWERED

86

Dena Davidson is a Christian apologist and you can find her on the web at DenaDavidson.com.

2019

+ THINK ABOUT IT

WHO IS THE DEVIL ACCORDING TO THE BIBLE?

BY JENENE STAFFORD

THE DEVIL IS A SCHEMER AND THE RULER OF THE DEMONS WHO WAS CAST DOWN WITH HIS ANGELS FROM HEAVEN AND HAS BEEN SINNING EVER SINCE. HE WORKS TO CAUSE PEOPLE TO SIN, LIVE IN DARKNESS, DIVIDED AND UNRECONICLED TO THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. HE'S THE ADVERSARY OF CHRIST'S SONS AND DAUGHTERS AND THE TEMPTER OF ALL HUMANITY AND THE ACCUSER OF THE BRETHEREN.

T

he most important thing to

devil is our enemy, and as human beings

ers has been thrown down, who accuses

know about the devil is that

and believers we need to overcome; our

them day and night before our God.'"

he is a very real spirit and

salvation depends on knowing how.

Jesus called him Satan. He

The Book of Revelation gives us a lot of

In the verses following, it tells us how we overcome, (11) "And they overcame

has various names throughout Scripture,

insight into the role he plays, Revelation

him by the Blood of the Lamb and by the

but is known very clearly as the "accuser

12:9-10 says, "And the great dragon was

word of their testimony and they did not

of the bretheren" and the "tempter" who

thrown down, that ancient serpent, who

love their lives to death. (12) Therefore

tempts Jesus in the wilderness. He is also

is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver

rejoice, Oh heavens and you who dwell in

known as the god of this world because

of the whole worldâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;he was thrown

them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth

he was cast down to earth, tempted Adam

down to the earth, and his angels were

and the sea! For the devil has come down

and Eve (ancient serpent, dragon) and

thrown down with him. (10) And I heard

to you, having great wrath, because he

has been wreaking havoc ever since man

a loud voice in heaven, saying, 'Now the

knows he has a short time."

came into the picture, and Adam was

salvation and the power and the kingdom

There are many Christians that don't

given dominion over the earth.

of our God and the authority of his Christ

even believe that the devil is real. How

have come, for the accuser of our broth-

can we believe in Christianity if we don't

It's crucial that we understand that the

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2019

believe in the Bible's words, I John 3:8

a spirit and, believe it or not, has limita-

destroy the works of the devil. (9) No one

when Jesus Himself tells us ". . .I came to

tions, especially if you're a Christian who

born of God makes a practice of sinning,

destroy the works of the devil?" The apos-

understands the power and authority

for God's seed abides in him; and he can-

tle Paul also contended with the devil

you carry in the name of Jesus Christ.

not keep on sinning, because he has been

and said in 2 Cor: 2:11,"We're not unwise

born of God. (10) By this it is evident who

concerning the devil's schemes." We

He's our Adversary: According to the

are the children of God, and who are the

shouldn't be unwise either, and yet it ap-

Bible I Peter 5:8 says, "Be sober-minded;

children of the devil: whoever does not

pears we are, if you look at the results of

be watchful. Your adversary the devil

practice righteousness is not of God, nor

this survey. A 2009 Barna survey report-

prowls around like a roaring lion, seek-

is the one who does not love his brother."

ed that nearly 60 percent of Christians in

ing someone to devour."

He is the father of lies (John 8:44): “You

America view the devil as only a symbol of evil. Only one quarter of participants

He has been sinning from the begin-

are of your father the devil, and your will

strongly affirmed the devil's personal

ning (I John 3: 7-10): "Little children, let

is to do your father’s desires. He was a

existence, though this figure more than

no one deceive you. Whoever practic-

murderer from the beginning, and does

doubles among "born again" Christians.

es righteousness is righteous, as he is

not stand in the truth, because there is no

What muddies the poll, however, is the

righteous. (8) Whoever makes a practice

truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out

inconsistency of responses. Nearly half

of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has

of his own character, for he is a liar and

of those who treated Satan as a symbol

been sinning from the beginning." The

the father of lies.”

believed that demons could influence

reason the Son of God appeared was to

people. Furthermore, a strong majority

He's the Deceiver of the whole world:

affirmed that one "must either side with

“And when the thousand years are

God or with the devil."

The M.O. of the Devil: Schemer The results of the Barna survey are

“ THE DEVIL IS A FALLEN

mind-boggling and it's evidence to the absence of basic Christian and biblical teaching, understanding and knowledge.

The main M.O. of the Devil is schemer.

But there are many more titles and descriptions that make it clear what he is up to.

We all need to be fully aware of who he is and how he schemes to keep us from God's plans for our lives. We also need to understand that he is not only out for the souls of humanity, but to destroy the nations. He will work through

government, family, media, religion, etc.

Basically anywhere he can influence culture and create distraction, pride, envy, division, blindness and lies—that's what he's up to.

The devil represents the entire kingdom of darkness. He rules the other devils that are underneath him. Lucifer was the leader of the angels and when they followed him and were thrown down, he continued to rule over them. He's not

prison and will come out to deceive the nations that are at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle; their number is like the sand of

ANGEL,

the sea. And they marched up over the

HE IS NO

the camp of the saints and the beloved

COMPARISON

consumed them, and the devil who had

TO GOD, BUT WE NEED TO KNOW

each human being, but he will also work through culture, politics, education,

ended, Satan will be released from his

broad plain of the earth and surrounded city, but fire came down from heaven and deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”

Author Henry Hon writes in his book One Ekklesia that "It is like Satan has already been found guilty and sentenced to the lake of fire, but the sentence has not

HOW WE'RE

yet been executed. He is now in 'death

INSTRUCTED

less, if God's people are not brought to-

TO DEAL WITH THE REALITY OF HIS SCHEMES."

omnipotent so he's not everywhere. He is

row' waiting for his final exit. Neverthegether in oneness, Satan will continue his reign on earth as the supreme interloper.

Therefore, Satan's highest priority and strategy is to disrupt the building up of the Lord's ekklesia, assembly, by keeping God's people divided. If they are divided, then his kingdom continues. God's people in division and faction are ignorantly prolonging Satan's kingdom on earth!" says Hon.

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