PUBLISHER’S Perspective
Cultivating a mindset and lifestyle of prayer with preparedness is urgent wisdom. Life is not, nor will be as usual. With all that is going on in the world today, being alive is not only a blessing but an opportunity to pivot into greater purpose.
Resourcefulness is a product of purpose. Becoming more resourceful means assessing our gifts, talents, skills, abilities, callings, and finances, then using them to better serve God, family, and people. This may mean extracting yourself from time wasters and distractions that lure you each day. Then, replace non-purposed activities with “royal habits” expounded on in this edition of PURPOSE.
Currently, there is an urgency to get ready for coming transitions. Change is occurring rapidly, causing conditions and situations to potentially shift in one second, minute, hour, or day. Consider all the lives impacted or lost due to diseases, conflicts, accidents, wars, and disasters each day. Yet, as tragic as this is, it is essential to “keep hope alive” as declared by civil rights activist, Rev. Jesse Jackson. Be encouraged to press through life’s mayhem toward the brighter future promised by our Maker in the scriptures. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).
By all means, do not be deceived by what appears to be appealing and politically correct, but choose peace, knowledge, morality, and integrity. Even while observing the downfall of worldly and spiritual leaders, we have the power and personal resolve to make wise choices. Therefore, reject hate and self-righteous attitudes, lest we fall. Also, it is critical to not judge situations and issues by what the media portray. Instead, do the research before drawing conclusions.
To understand the proper context of current national and international politics, study true history and do some fact checking. Doing this will likely uncover centuries of lies and propaganda. People are still perishing due to the lack of knowledge, but it is never too late to begin the learning process. Remember, no matter how strong the pervasive deceit is, truth will prevail. With the help of God Almighty, our victory over evil is inevitable.
“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.”
Ephesians 5:15,17
With Purpose,
Table of Contents
Editor’s Commentary Life Stewardship 101 by Alleceia Walker
Contributor’s Page
Next Generation NOW Ghana: African Struggle, Beauty, and Excellence by Caleb McCall
Pivoting with Purpose: Embracing Transitions with Peace & Clarity by Dr. Dee Hester
Prayer Strategies for the New Year: Start Small, Celebrate Big, and Elevate Your Life with the Power ‘of Prayer by Dr. Daniel Haupt
Business & Financial Wisdom Real Estate 102: Expanding Your Knowledge Beyond the Basics by Marki Lemons Ryhal, MBA
Money Emergency Preparedness by Michele Wineski
Royal Habits for Fulfilling God-Given Purpose & Destiny by Dr. Daniel Haupt
The Power of Persisting by Angel C. Dye
Snapshots from the 53 Annual Legislative Conference
On the Cover: Royal Couple, Marvin & Maryum Cooper
Life Stewardship 101
Alleceia Walker, Managing Editor
The Bible is filled with teachings that encourage us to live responsibly, faithfully, and purposefully. One such verse that speaks to the essence of stewardship is Luke 12:48, which states:
“But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
This verse speaks profoundly about the concept of stewardship and our responsibilities as individuals. At its core, it teaches that with great blessings and gifts come great responsibilities. As I explored what it meant to be a good steward throughout my life these are the insights gleaned from this power-filled scripture.
1. Understanding Stewardship in the Biblical Context
To grasp the depth of Luke 12:48, we first need to understand what stewardship means biblically. A steward is someone who manages or looks after something on behalf of someone else. In biblical terms, we are all stewards of the life, time, talents, and resources that God has entrusted to us. Everything we have—our abilities, opportunities, relationships, and even spiritual gifts—are entrusted to us by God to manage for His glory and the good of others.
Jesus’ words in the above scripture are a reminder that our stewardship is not optional. It comes with a sense of accountability and purpose. The verse underscores that the more we are given, the more is expected of us. It is a call to recognize the weight of our responsibilities and to live with intentionality.
2. Stewardship of Time and Talents
Being a good steward involves recognizing that our time on earth is limited and valuable. Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” We are called to use our time wisely, investing it in things that have eternal value, such as building relationships, serving others, and growing spiritually.
Similarly, our talents and abilities are gifts from God meant to serve a higher purpose. 1 Peter 4:10 states, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” We are not given talents to bury them or use them solely for personal gain, but to cultivate and utilize them to benefit others, advance God’s kingdom, and
glorify Him.
3. Stewardship of Resources
Our financial resources, possessions, and material blessings are also areas we are called to be faithful stewards. Proverbs 3:9-10 encourages us to, “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” This does not mean living a life of extravagance or selfish accumulation. Instead, it means managing what we have wisely, being generous, and using our resources to help those in need while supporting the work of the church and God’s missions.
4. Stewardship of Influence and Relationships
Every person has a sphere of influence—whether it is within a family, a community, a workplace, or a church. We are called to be good stewards of the influence God has given us, using it to lead by example, to encourage others, and to promote truth, justice, and love.
Moreover, our relationships are opportunities for stewardship. We are entrusted with the care of others’ hearts, emotions, and spiritual growth. We should seek to build relationships that reflect Christ’s love, bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and sharpening one another in faith (Proverbs 27:17).
5. Accountability and the Call to Action Accountability is emphasized in Luke 12:48. The verse says, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.” This should prompt us to reflect on our lives and ask: What has God given me? Am I using it to its fullest potential? Am I living in a way that is aligned with God’s purpose for my life? Accountability is not about fear but living in awareness that we will one day give an account to God for how we managed what He entrusted to us. This awareness should drive us to live more intentionally and purposefully, aligning our actions with God’s will.
Being a good steward over one’s life is about recognizing that everything we have—our time, talents, resources, and influence— comes from God and is meant for His glory and the edification of His people. Luke 12:48 serves as a sobering reminder that with great blessings come great responsibilities. It challenges us to live with purpose, to manage what we have wisely, and to strive to be faithful stewards in every aspect of our lives.
Publisher & Executive Editor
Ella Coleman
Managing Editor
Alleceia Walker
Graphics Designer
André Hawkins
Social Media/Web Manager
Imani Haupt
Contributing Writers
Angel C. Dye
Dr. Daniel Haupt
Dr. Dee Hester
Joyce E. Jones
Marki Lemon-Ryhal
Michele Wineski
Next Generation
Now Contributors
Justin Seaton
Morgan Holden
Monique Lavoie
Hannah Grace Pritchett
Aubriana Hills
PURPOSE Magazine is published quarterly and is a Trademark. Copyright © 2024, Ellavation Publishing, 2868 Stelzer Road, # 156, Columbus, OH 43219. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means in whole or in part without prior written permission of the publisher.
CONTRIBUTORS
“Next Generation NOW” is a dedicated section of PURPOSE Magazine that highlights our Next Generation Voices. It is our desire to platform these high school and college scholars NOW, so they can make an impact and positive change within our Global Community that will last a lifetime.
James
Blake High School Class of “24
Contributor
Contributor
Contributor
Morgan Holden
Huber
Monique Lavoie Howard University Class of ‘27
Old Lyme, Connecticut
Junior Editor
Hannah Grace Prichett
James Huber Blake High School Class of “24
Aubriana Hills Howard University Student
Ghana: African Struggle, Beauty, and Excellence
By Caleb McCall
Recently, I had the chance to experience something most people only dream of—traveling abroad and reconnecting with my roots. Reflecting on my week in Ghana, I feel a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. I was able to fulfill my ancestors’ dream of returning to Alkebulan, often referred to as “the motherland.” This firsthand experience taught me a great deal about my own fortune, the hidden beauty of Africa, and the global presence of Black excellence. I am incredibly fortunate. I was born into a loving family, face relatively minor struggles, and speak English as my first language—luxuries not available to many. This became especially clear during my stay in Ghana. While observing many children heading to school, there were just as many youths begging on the streets to support
their families. One day, we had to rise at 6 a.m. to travel to a distant region. Even at that early hour, people were out on the roads, risking their lives to sell their goods. I have never had to face such challenges. Many people lived in poverty, with no running water, no electricity, and in rudimentary huts. Yet, the people of Ghana carried themselves with pride and dignity.
Western media often portrays Africa as a desolate place connecting a desert to a jungle, but that is not the reality. Even I was surprised by the size of Accra from the air; it looked like a city in the U.S. The city’s vastness was not the only surprise. The natural beauty of the landscape was breathtaking. Everywhere I looked seemed like a living painting. The most stunning sight was a waterfall cascading into a shallow pool, surrounded by lush vegetation. I was also struck by how harmoniously the architecture blended with the landscape. The Eastern region’s mountainous terrain offered magnificent views from the mountain overlooking the city below.
The term “Black excellence” resonates deeply within the African American community. Figures such as Barack Obama, Chadwick Boseman, and Deanita McCall exemplify this concept. In Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah, the country’s first president, is a notable figure of Black excellence. He fought for Ghanaian independence and implemented significant projects like the Akosombo Dam, shaping Ghana into the nation it is today. Although not everyone in Ghana is wealthy, its citizens demonstrate Black excellence through their hard work and gratitude. Inspired by the people of Ghana, I strive to embody their qualities: pride, diligence, and ambition. They live out their Black excellence, and I am determined to do the same.
Caleb McCall is a sophomore Biology Major at Howard University from Charlotte, North Carolina. His future aspirations include attending Medical School to become a doctor of pathology.
Pivoting with Purpose: Embracing Transitions with Peace & Clarity
By Dr. Dee Hester
Life is a tedious journey marked by transitions, from childhood to adulthood, singlehood to marriage, or career change to retirement. Each phase requires us to adapt, grow, and pivot in purpose. But how do we discern the right moment to pivot, especially when healing from past trauma? Reflecting on transitions using the word of God helps us to focus on how life’s transitions help us to mature as we learn to approach change with peace and clarity.
Life’s Transitions: A Path to Growth
Transitions are inevitable. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” These seasons of change are not random; they are orchestrated by God to shape and refine us. While from one phase of life to another, we encounter challenges that stretch us beyond our comfort zones, where growth occurs.
Consider the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It was a transition marked by trials, testing, and
transformation. Deuteronomy 8:2 says, “Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart.” Their transition was a time of growth and preparation for a new purpose.
Similarly, our transitions are opportunities for growth. They challenge us to develop new skills, build resilience, and deepen our faith. Growth doesn’t happen without discomfort. Facing the unknown, we rely on God more deeply, trust His timing, and seek His wisdom.
The Three Pillars of Wisdom: Knowing When to Pivot
Knowing when to pivot requires wisdom. Proverbs 4:7 tells us, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore, get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” To discern when to pivot, lean on these three pillars of wisdom:
1. Prayerful Discernment: James 1:5 encourages us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God.” Prayer is our direct line to God’s wisdom. Through prayer, we can ask God to reveal whether it’s time to pivot and what direction to take.
2. Godly Counsel from Others: Proverbs 11:14 states, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors, there is safety.” Seeking godly counsel from trusted mentors or wise friends provides insight for informed decisions about when to pivot.
3. Inner Peace: Colossians 3:15 advises, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” When faced with a decision to pivot, God’s peace often confirms our path. If there is uneasy feeling, it may be a sign to wait; if we feel peace, it’s likely the Holy Spirit is guiding us forward.
Adaptability: A Vital Skill in Life’s Transitions
Adaptability is key to navigating life’s transitions. When adaptable, our mindset, plans, and actions can be adjusted
to meet the demands of the new season. Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Being adaptable means letting go of our plans and following God’s lead.
Joseph, the son of Jacob, exemplifies adaptability. Sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph’s life was a series of unexpected transitions. Yet, he remained adaptable, rising to each challenge with faith and integrity. His adaptability allowed him to pivot from suffering to leadership, ultimately saving his family and a nation (Genesis 37-50).
Adaptability doesn’t come naturally, especially for those recovering from trauma. Trauma creates a fear of change and vulnerability. As we heal, adaptability becomes a sign of recovery, revealing we are no longer bound by our past but free to embrace the future God has for us.
Healing the Soul: The Foundation for Better Decisions
Healing is essential for sound decisions during transitions. Wounded hearts cloud judgment with fear or unresolved pain. Proverbs 4:23 warns, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” A healed heart, free from trauma’s distortions, better discerns God’s will.
Consider David, a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). Despite profound pain and betrayal, David sought God’s healing and guidance. His Psalms express raw emotion and a deep yearning for God’s restoration (Psalm 51). Because David allowed God to heal his heart, he pivoted from fugitive to Israel’s greatest king.
When our souls are healed, we are more attuned to the Holy Spirit’s leading. We can pivot in purpose with confidence, knowing our decisions are made from wholeness.
The Role of the Holy Spirit: Peace and Clarity
The Holy Spirit is our ultimate guide in life’s transitions. Jesus promised in John 16:13, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” The Holy Spirit provides the peace and clarity needed to navigate change. Inviting the Holy Spirit into the decisionmaking process ensures we are led by the one who knows all things.
In uncertainty, the Holy Spirit comforts us, bringing to remembrance God’s promises and helping us see the bigger picture. When overwhelmed by a pivot, the Holy Spirit provides strength and courage to take necessary steps.
Embracing the Pivot
Pivoting with purpose is a natural part of our spiritual journey. It’s how God leads us into new seasons of growth and deeper relationship with Him. While challenging, especially for those healing from trauma, it’s a sign of maturity and adaptability.
Get grounded now in the three pillars of wisdom— prayerful discernment, godly counsel from others, and inner peace. These pillars can be used as a compass to navigate life’s transitions with confidence. By clearing the path to healing and renewing the soul—mind, will, and emotions—decisions become clearer, routes straighter, and lives more aligned with God’s purpose.
Remember, transitions are not to be feared but embraced. With the Holy Spirit as our guide, we can pivot in purpose with peace, knowing God leads us every step of the way.
Dr. Dee Hester is certified Life Coach and Christian Counselor at Newburgh Theological Seminary. She is a Mentor, Educator and Author, and the Founder/ Director of Kingdom Business Bible College and More in You Coaching.
Prayer Strategies for the New Year:
Start Small, Celebrate Big, and Elevate Your Life with the Power of Prayer
By Dr. Daniel Haupt
As the New Year approaches, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation, a stirring in the spirit that calls for preparation for what lies ahead. This season is not just about making resolutions but positioning ourselves to walk in purpose and destiny. How do we do that? By embracing the life-transforming power of prayer— the most powerful tool that permits God to interfere in our lives in ways that help and elevate us to new levels of purpose and fulfillment. A lot of heartache can be avoided by praying intentionally.
The Power of Prayer
Prayer is more than a spiritual routine; it’s a divine partnership with God. Dr. Myles Munroe, in his book, “Understanding the Purpose and Power of Prayer: Earthly License for Heavenly Interference,” teaches that through prayer we unlock the doors to heaven’s resources, allowing God to interfere in our circumstances, guide our steps, and align us with His perfect will. There is power in aligning our prayers with God’s will. When we pray according to His will, we can have confidence that God hears us and is ready to act (1 John 5:14 NLT). Prepare now, to step into the New Year with faith. Remember, faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see (Hebrews 11:1 NLT). Our prayers, grounded in faith, allow us to access the unseen realities of God’s promises, bringing them into our present circumstances. Yet, prayer action must be taken to realize desired blessings. So what is the best way to effectively activate an effective prayer life?
Start Small, Celebrate Big
We often think that profound change requires monumental efforts, but as BJ Fogg, PhD, teaches in his book “Tiny Habits,” transformation begins with small, consistent actions. Imagine starting each day with just a few moments of prayer—anchoring this new habit to something you already do, like making your morning coffee or getting dressed. Praying while doing simple everyday functions can become the spark that ignites a life-changing prayer routine.
The key is to start small. Don’t overwhelm yourself with the idea that you must spend hours in prayer from day one. Instead, begin with just one minute dedicated to connecting with God. Start by using the ACTSI prayer model— Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication, and Intercession—one minute at a time. Spend a minute asking God for your needs, another minute confessing any wrongs and requesting forgiveness, a minute in thanksgiving, a minute in supplication, and a final minute interceding for others. This step-by-step approach allows you to gradually build a habit of prayer without feeling overwhelmed.
While faithfully engaging in these small acts of prayer, take time to celebrate your progress. Each prayer is a step closer to aligning with God’s purpose for your life. Celebrate the small victories—the consistency, the moments of clarity, the peace that comes from being in His presence. These seemingly small successes are the building blocks of a powerful, transformative prayer life. By starting small, celebrating each step, and staying consistent, you will discover your prayer life becomes a force that propels you into greater purpose and fulfillment.
Elevate Your Life and Destiny
As your prayer habit grows, so will your spiritual strength. Prayer is not just about asking God for things; it’s about inviting Him to be actively involved in every aspect of your life. Watchman Nee teaches hat prayer aligns us with God’s will, giving us the authority to walk in His purpose for our lives. Through prayer, we don’t just survive—we thrive, moving forward in confidence and strength.
Conclusion
As you prepare for the New Year, remember God desires to partner with you in every step of your journey. The ACTSI model provided above will enables you to structure your connection with God. Anchor your prayers in faith,
trusting in the divine assurance described in Hebrews 11:1. Celebrate your progress as you build this habit, and watch as God elevates your life to new heights. Prayer is your divine license to invite God’s interference—embrace it, and step boldly into the destiny He has prepared for you. Don’t wait—start today! Visit PrayFastDaily.org to access resources, join our prayer community, and deepen your spiritual journey. Together, let’s commit to consistent, powerful prayer, and witness the transformative power of God in our lives. Take the first step now and see how God will honor your faithfulness.
Dr. Daniel Haupt is founder/vision pastor of Voice Of Destiny Ministries and PrayFastDaily.org, a strategic praying, fasting, teaching and training ministry. VoiceOfDestiny.org
BUSINESS & FINANCIAL WISDOM
Real Estate 102: Expanding Your Knowledge Beyond the Basics
By Marki Lemons Ryhal, MBA
Building on the basics covered in Real Estate 101 in the previous issue of Purpose, this article aims to delve deeper into the intricacies of the real estate world. From understanding due diligence to exploring property management intricacies, you are now being provided the knowledge needed to further your real estate endeavors.
CONDUCTING DUE DILIGENCE
Due diligence is a crucial step when buying a property. This process involves verifying the property’s details, assessing its physical condition, and evaluating potential legal issues. It requires thorough research, inspection, and sometimes even professional expertise.
NAVIGATING REAL ESTATE LAWS AND REGULATIONS
Laws and regulations govern the real estate market. Familiarity with these laws, such as zoning, environmental regulations, and property rights, is essential to avoid legal complications and to ensure a smooth transaction.
ADVANCED FINANCING OPTIONS
While mortgages are the most common form of financing, other sophisticated options are also available. This includes real estate syndication, crowdfunding, and real estate limited partnerships. Understanding these options can help you diversify your investment strategy and maximize your profits.
DELVING INTO PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
As a real estate investor, managing your property efficiently is crucial for maximizing income and maintaining your property’s value. Property management includes tenant management, property maintenance, and dealing with legalities such as rental regulations and contracts.
The journey from a beginner to an experienced real estate investor or homeowner involves continuous learning and adaptation. This article has only scratched the surface of due diligence, real estate laws, advanced financing options, and property management. I encourage you to do further research and expand your knowledge in these areas. As you continue your real estate journey, remember to stay informed, be proactive, and always strive for growth. Your success in real estate lies in your hands.
Marki Lemons Ryhal, MBA, ABR, AHWD, C2EX, CDEI, CIPS, CRB, C-RETS, CRS, & SRS, is a Keynote Speaker and Real Estate Entrepreneur. Also, she shows clients how to learn to earn up to 2,682% ROI through AI/ChatGPT, Automation, and Repurposing Content. Visit https://www. markilemons.com/
Money Emergency Preparedness
By Michele Wineski
During economically challenging times most people respond by spending less money and getting out of debt. This primarily means the reduction of revolving credit card debt. Yet, many people seem to be on a vicious cycle of accumulating debt again and again. It is discouraging to nearly reach a zero balance on long-standing accounts when suddenly something happens—an emergency. Almost out of nowhere comes the unexpected expense. It seems at the most unexpected time, the furnace or air conditioner malfunctions and the transmission on the car goes out after the warranties expire. Although few unexpected expenses happen regularly, we can prepare for most emergencies to avoid charging credit cards.
Prepare for emergencies or sudden financial demands through short-term investment vehicles like a money market or bond fund. Many top-rated funds are averaging 3-5 percent, which is better than a savings account averaging .01 percent. This type of investment is an emergency fund. It is not for that amazing storewide sale, gadget or toy you discovered, but a real need.
The most common emergency for which people are not prepared is job loss or temporary or long-term disability due to sickness. Many corporations are downsizing or investing in AI and other technology to do more with less employees and expenses. When unexpected job loss, sickness or under-employment occurs, many people, after a
short time, will have to use retirement money, credit cards or suffer loss of their homes, cars, and other valuables. Most financial advisors minimally recommend saving six to nine months of your living expenses. I recommend saving a larger rainy-day amount over a three-to-fiveyear period. For those earning a large salary or profiting well in business, set aside more money to accumulate a bigger reserve. One example: to save $30,000-$45,000 over a 5-year period, you would have to contribute $418 monthly and receive a 6 percent interest. For many families and singles systematically saving the above amount can be challenging. However, with this sum available, your lifestyle would not have to greatly diminish because of temporary job loss or sickness.
There are other routine items for which you need to plan and incorporate into your fund. For example, the car and its repair costs, including brakes, tires, tune-up, oil change, etc. are routine items that must be paid for sooner or later. When these are not added to the budget, they become emergency items in the future. Take a moment and add up what it would cost for general maintenance for your car over the next year. If the cost is $1000, then you need to invest $83.33 each month. What about gifts you will have to purchase for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and weddings? How much do you spend on gifts each year? Add up the number and divide by 12 to determine the amount you need to invest monthly.
When you add up all the former emergencies or surprises, a large monthly savings amount is required. Don’t be discouraged, this is an opportunity to consider if you want to allocate your money in the same manner you have in the past. Begin saving for vital items, then save for gifts, other items, and services. By planning for the unexpected, health maintenance, peace of mind and assets will be better maintained and enjoyed. May you plan to expect and embrace the unexpected.
“Go to the ant … Consider her ways and be wise, which having not captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.”
Proverbs 6:6-8 NKJV
Michele Wisneski is a freelance writer and ordained minister.
Royal Habits for Fulfilling God-Given Purpose & Destiny
By Dr. Daniel Haupt
Marvin & Maryum Cooper with son, Luke, and daughter, Maurielle, who are both gifted artists and college scholars. The Coopers practice royal habits, in family support, prayer, study, work ethic, and other daily disciplines.
In life there are habits, and then, there are Kingdom success habits. Habits are settled or regular tendencies or practices, especially the ones hard to give up. Kingdom-fed habits are those intentional practices conducive to the development of spiritual and mental virtues in accordance with God’s biblical standards. Establishing and living these habits prepare one to fulfill divine purpose and destiny. It takes about Forming kingdom success habits helps to keep you on course. Understand, this kind of life is a journey in which many challenges are encountered that can sway you
off God’s intended route for you. So, remember, what keeps you together during trials is the established practice of good, royal habits you have already formed. Habits are actions done repeatedly without much effort. They come from thoughts that accumulate while growing and maturing in various environments, like home, work, school, and church. These habits, formed in the heart, end up defining you, and your unconscious or selected destiny. Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” (NKJV). Collectively, tiny habits have an everlasting impact in our lives. So be intentional to shape those little practices into meaningful habits that lead
Royal Habits and Your Destiny
Forming a habit is like a dress rehearsal costume worn in preparation for manifesting real purpose and destiny. If the garment is too heavy or not fit for travel to the desired destination, it postpones or derails your journey. But light and tailored attire, accommodates you to go exactly where God intended you to be. Also, practicing and mastering royal habits ensure that upon arrival, you are rewarded more than a short stay but a forever habitation at your crowning place.
Habits have power to weigh you down or build you up and they shape your quality of life. This is the reason why the Bible, in Hebrews 12, verse 1, urges us to “lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us.” I like the use of the word ensnares because it points out the existence of a trap. Bad habits are traps holding victims to cycles of wasted time, non-productivity, addictions, and regret instead of God-intended destiny.
Bad habits can lead one to living a lie. Lying and cheating come through wearing a fake costume, like an actor playing a role that really does not depict his or her true behavior. So, choose well, and think about what kinds of habits you want to create for your life. Form habits that advance your purpose and edify God’s people.
How to Make Royalty a Habit
The greatest treasure one can have for a balanced lifestyle is to possess royal habits. Instructions for acquiring royal habits are in the word of God and some good books. Some of the royal habits we can do regularly include: praying, worshiping, fasting, reading and studying the Bible, spending time with family and friends, forgiving, weekly taking a day of rest, giving, loving others, exercising, eating healthy, listening to Gospel Praise & Worship, Smooth Jazz, Clean Rap and other positive music; speaking the word over situations, honoring mother and father, doing by faith what God told you to do, being honest and truthful, having clean fun, and just being a blessing. Practicing these actions elevates lifestyle and secures destinies.
The Royal Habit Formula—REPOH
As mentioned before, habits may come out of royal Kingdom culture, or destructive earthly inequity bent, depending on how one builds his or her life, and the influencers,
particularly parents and others one grows up around. They can be sources of positive or negative inspiration. If you grew up with good inspiration from family and friends, keep it and build upon it. Even, in you were surrounded by people who influenced you with negativity, causing you to lose out on royal habits, remember habits come from our repeated thoughts and actions. God has given us the power to control our thoughts. Therefore, bad habits can be changed by replacing them with royal habits.”
According to Al and Hattie Hollingsworth of BOSS The Movement, a bad habit can only be replaced by a good one Call my wife when she gets home. The Hollingsworths teach:
“Anything done with repetition becomes easy. When it comes easy, it becomes a pleasure to perform. When it becomes a pleasure to perform it is man’s nature to perform it often. When any act is performed often, it becomes a habit. If your will is to be rid of bad habits, then it becomes your will to become a slave to new good habits.”
The formula they teach for exercising this process is called REPOH.
R—Repetition
E—Easy
P—Pleasure
O—Often
H—HABIT
The above acronym of the formula outlines one simple way to build a habit. Repeat royal habits consistently. By doing so, they become easy for you to do. When it becomes easy, you find pleasure in doing them and are proud to do so. After pleasure, those actions will be done often, which leads to living new habits.
Follow this formula, think about it, considering the activities you do every day and the people you do them with. Habits can be derailed by the presence of wrong influencers. In your circles, always take note of these and avoid anything that does not lead to royal habit formation.
Transferring Royal Habits Generationally
Both good and bad habits can be passed from generation to generation. God entrusted Abraham and regarded him as His friend because he had shown commitment and ability to follow divine instructions while practicing royal habits. Consequently, he became the father of the Hebrew nation, implementing a righteous standard of culture for genera-
tions of his forthcoming natural and spiritual descendants. Later, Daniel was consistent, even when taken as a captive to Babylon, a foreign land. He possessed a dietary habit within that said he could not eat certain unhealthy foods, and he didn’t. His close relationship with God, royal habit of prayer, and spiritual gifts were traits taken with him when thrown into the lion’s den for refusing to obey an idolatrous law. When God closed the mouths of the lions and delivered him, King Darius, decreed that in every dominion of his kingdom, citizens had to tremble and reverence the God of Daniel (Daniel, 6th chapter). So, learning and applying foundational principals for holy productive living as documented in the scriptures, is important.
When it comes to your habits, be intentional, know who you are, and act like it. This reminds me of the old story about an heir to King Louis of France. After the King had been arrested and dethroned, the people who had done that to him did not want his son to succeed him. So, they subjected his son to all kinds of temptations, including beautiful women, enticing language, tasty delicacies, alluring music, and more. They said, by destroying him morally, he would forget who he was, thereby, enabling them to easily dethrone him by assassinating his character and integrity. However, the king would not do anything to defy his principles. When asked why he refused misconduct, he responded, “I was born to be a King.” He simply knew himself and acted like it. Of course, this rightful heir’s parents also played a role in imparting identity into their son.
There is one more interesting point that comes out of the story of King Louis’ heir. To tempt him, they took him to a faraway land. However, his good habits, and moral upbringing followed him there. This shows the power of royal habits.
In other words, good, instilled habits, follow you wherever you go. In many countries, some schools have boarding facilities, where children begin living away from parents at a very young age. By just observing, one will discover that kids from a morally upright homes display good habits learned at home and live them at school, even in the absence of parents.
On the other hand, some children may come from a good upright family, but being hypocritical, they pretend to be good at home, but in school, they become the worst students ever. Their hypocrisy is like a costume worn which only reflects a good outer image, but rotten inside.
Satan tempts adults and children with the finest things of
this world and pretends he is the father of good times and happiness, but all his promises are just traps set to catch and abuse his captives. However, if you are to be like Jesus, always putting your purpose and destiny ahead of everything, you will learn how to use the word of God to define your true self. In Matthew 4, verses 1-11, Jesus was tempted by Satan, only to use the word of God to stand against him and win. When you rightly know your identity, it won’t be easy for the enemy to lure you from your own destiny.
Fulfilling your destiny requires a lifestyle that incorporates wisdom messages you constantly hear and decide to act on consistently. Doing things occasionally will not get to your destiny. Live it every day.
In the kingdom of God everyone is royalty because the Sovereign King, Creator, and Father made and sent us to be born on earth. “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2: 9 NKJV). Our Father has blessed us royally now and forever.
The greatest treasure that one can have for a balanced lifestyle, and thus God-given destiny, is to have royal habits. Some of these, we inherit from parents. Children are known to do an exaggeration of their parents’ habits. So, parents need to adjust their ways of doing things, always maintain a good mindset, and transfer it to their children from a very tender age.
The objective is to inspire systematic generational royal habits that have the connotations of a King or Queen in them. Each of us has some royalty within because God, the King made it so. The Bible speaks of us being little gods, made to be a little lower than angels (Hebrews 2:5-7). As such, let’s embrace the urgency to start forming royal habits and walking toward our destiny right now. There is no reason to wait for five, ten, or more years. The time to live like a King or Queen is now.
Dr. Daniel Haupt is founder/vision pastor of Voice Of Destiny Ministries and PrayFastDaily.org, a strategic praying, fasting, teaching and training ministry. VoiceOfDestiny.org
POWER PERSISTING THE OF
By Angel C. Dye
My time at Howard University was, in many ways, bittersweet. Now, I am the loudest and proudest Bison, but upon arrival to Washington, D.C. in August 2012 to begin my undergraduate journey, I was carrying much more than clothes in my baggage. I was shouldering the weight of poverty and disadvantage while smiling through the looming fear that my Howard story would be sullied because of money—or the lack of it.
I had experienced housing and food insecurity throughout my preteen and teenage years as my single mother struggled to maintain decent-paying jobs to keep up with rising living costs. We relied on her income and government assistance, but it never seemed to be enough. When it was time to go to college after being accepted by my dream school, we both knew I had the aptitude to attend Howard and succeed but there was no college fund to get or keep me there. Still, I chose to pursue my dream. I wanted to make a life for myself, and as a first-generation student, I desired to start a legacy in my family. Later, while leaving for D.C., I learned we were getting evicted and that my mom sold our furniture to afford Megabus tickets to get me from Texas to Howard. She sacrificed so I could have a chance at my dream.
Howard is called “The Mecca” for a reason. It is a beautiful campus in an historic city populated by Black people from every corner of the world who come together to produce cutting-edge knowledge and art. Even as I wrestled with housing expenses and juggled jobs to supplement what student loans could not cover, I was immersed in the richness of black life and culture in every class, club, and social event in which I participated. Each semester was
an uphill battle to pay tuition balances and register for courses, yet I persisted even when it became most dire because the woman I was becoming—a woman honing her talents as a writer and scholar, a woman making lifelong friendships and connections—was more important to me than anything.
Ultimately, my persistence led to scholarships, opportunities to travel abroad, and to perform poetry around the country. After five years of striving and relying on miracles, a big blessing came through donors who covered a $20K+ balance I owed to the university. This allowed me to finish my degree and graduate with a fully funded Master’s offer. To anyone chasing a dream or goal, I urge you to persist. Believe me—I know what persistence in the face of adversity can lead to. My faith, coupled with my drive and relentlessness, have landed me here as a Howard alum, a published poet, a Ph.D. candidate, and a professor of Literature and Creative Writing. That dream is in your heart for a reason, and you are going to impact so many people as you persist to achieve it.
Angel C. Dye is the author of BREATHE and My Mouth a Constant Prayer. For more information, visit https:// backbonepress.org/haikucollections/my-mouth-a-constantprayer/ or https://linktr.ee/angeldye, and follow her on social media: Instagram/Twitter: @blkgrlpoet.
Snapshots
From the 53rd Annual Legislative Conference
Connections, collaborations, a convergence of the African Diaspora, and so much more engaged host congresspersons and a wide range of leaders, citizens, and scholars. PURPOSE Magazine Editor and Washington Correspondent, Allecia Walker, was there to capture some special moments.
Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, D-OH
Civil Rights Attorney Ben
Elsie Cooke-Holmes, International Pres. of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, D-MN,
Entertainment Reporter A.J. Calloway
Sister Claudette Marie Muhammad, Nation of Islam
Crump
His Majesty Muhammad-Nabil Mforifoum Mbombo Njoya, Bamoun Sultan from Foumban, Cameroon.
PURPOSE
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson with Howard University Scholars
Congressman Jonathan Jackson, D-IL, join Howard University Scholars
Congresswoman Iyanna Pressley (D-MA)
Mr. Melvin Foote, President of Constituency of Africa with Howard University Scholars
Congressman Danny K. Davis, D-IL
Congressman James E. Clyburn, D-SC
Mikki Taylor, Leading Beauty Authority
Congressman Jonathon Jackson (D-IL)
