The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine Issue 7

THE PURPOSE driven LADY

Issue #7 |dec. 2022

DIARY OF A PURPOSE

PURPOSEFULLY

DRIVEN LADY WITH OMOWUMI OLUNLOYO

CREATED JUMMY POKU

YOU ARE PACKAGED

FOR GLORY

NO OTHER NAME TOMIKE OGUNLEYE

JUMOKE EKONG

INTERVIEWS FROM SOME OF THE WOMEN THAT INSPIRED ME IN 2022

CELEBRATING MY ONE IN A MILLION MUM

THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY MAGAZINE

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BOOKS BY

OMOWUMI OLUNLOYO AKA TOKS

It is a guide to effec ve posi ve confession for our life, career, finance, love, marriage and family. It is now me to possess what YOU confess!”

Have you ever wondered how to pray for your career, finances, family or life ingeneral? Do you get stuck on what to say to God when you pray?

Would you like to learn a simple formula that will allow you to see more answers to your prayers?

If your answer is YES to any of the above, this book is for you!

In this powerful book, Omowunmi Olunloyo presents confessions from the word of God that will transform your life, career, finances, love, marriage and family.

You will discover: Ÿ The power of confessing God's word; Ÿ How to take authority over nega ve Ÿ circumstances in your life; Ÿ The blessings and promises available to you in the word of God; Ÿ The key to consistently answered prayer; Ÿ How to receive from God. God's desire is that His people live a life of balance and wholeness in spirit, soul, and body. This happens when we unite the power of God's word with prayer so be empowered, be inspired, and speak your way to victory

IIs a compila on of inspiring stories from 15 busy working mothers who made decisions to find their place, posi on & purpose so that the could live their best life.

It is a must have for busy working mothers everywhere, it is packed with real life story that will strike a chord with you, not only because it is wri en by busy working mother for busy working mothers but also because it contains trials and triumph, a mess and a message & struggles that turned to success that will help you step into your own place.They have found a pathway to deal with the challenges that comes with being a woman, wife and working mother. They are busy working mothers with different experiences and life story from different backgrounds living in different parts of the world and these busy working mothers are on a mission to mo vate, educate and encourage you to Step Out and Release Your Inner Greatness because if they can do it, you can do it too. £9.99 h ps://bit.ly/StepOutBook

£4.99 h ps://bit.ly/2StepsBook Innova on makes life interes ng, but not easy. The purpose of this book is to show you the key steps and processes to follow for launching a new product. This will cover all aspects of product, process and packaging. This book describes the stages involved in developing a product from concept to launch, ensuring that it is safe, meets all customer & legal requirements and launched successfully and on me. £7.99 h ps://bit.ly/ForkandSpoonBook

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Granola, Muesli & Snack pots Truly awesome, award winning, breakfast cereals that are made in a kitchen by people who love good food rather than being churned out on a factory production line. Finished off with finely ground vanilla pods to make it taste like you are on holiday. Things are on the up and up!

Purple Patch Cereals have been designed exclusively for independent retailers.

Our products are not available in any of the supermarkets (Ocado, Waitrose, Sainsburys, Tesco etc.).

Purple Patch Snack Pots is the perfect snack for munching on the go – tasty, healthy and sustaining.

Designed for placement on counters or near the till.

Our cereals are truly artisan products made by the producer (no outsourcing).

Our cereals have finely ground Madagascan vanilla added for a unique and awesome flavour!

Snack pots Green – Honey Baked Oat, Nut, Fruit & Seed Yellow – Honey Baked Oat, Nut & Seed Blue – Honey Baked Oat & Seed Orange – Chocolate Baked Oat & Tangy Cranberr

How to Order Direct from the website: http://purplepatchcereals.co.uk/ Our Contact Details If you have any queries, just get in touch via email at toks@purplepatchcereals.co.uk For a prompt response

Our cereals won Great Taste Awards in 2016 and 2017.

Flavours:

Granola and Muesli Granola – Honey, Nuts & Fruit Granola – Honey & Nuts Muesli – Fruit & Nut Muesli – Fruity

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PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY is a movement where women are encouraged to take action to find their purpose, position and purpose so that they create their reality and live their best life.

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2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV) And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

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THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY MAGAZINE

LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR

and welcome back to another amazing issue of The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine. We have been on a short break, and we are back bigger and be er by God's grace alone. I especially welcome you to this Beau ful “Christmas Edi on”.

This Christmas theme is Women That Inspire – Women You Need to Know.

This year I have had the blessed pleasure of mee ng women of Timbre and Caliber, I could not be any prouder. I have spent me with them individually and as part of a group and I must say I am grateful for them. So, I decided to invite you to meet them.

Here I am right now, despite this slow start, it is amazing how the year 2022 is ending for me. Believe me, it was eye opening, mind blowing and thought provoking. I can tell you confidently that 2022 is indeed my year of Recovery, Release, Goshen experience, All round victories, and Overwhelming breakthroughs.

You know the bible says in Ecclesiastes that - The end of a ma er is be er than its beginning; as of January 2022, I did not see this edi on at all because of how the year started for me; in my own eyes, it was a really really slow and painful start.

I have 4 interviews from some of the Women That Inspired Me in 2022 that I believe will give you insight on so many levels as you prepare for 2023.

I am also very excited to share books that inspire and mo vate you as we enter 2023; yes, they are wri en

by your truly, including my latest book Step Out – Release Your Inner Greatness.

STEP OUT is a book wri en by 15 women (myself inclusive) who have found their place in life and purpose through thick and thin. Their stories s ll unfolding, you will find encouragement as you read.

When life is tough, and you feel you can't con nue because you can't seem to find the strength to go on; You can read this book.

The stories are real from one busy working mother to another busy working mother.

Some of the stories will make you laugh out loud, some may make you cry, but most importantly it will show Strength, Courage, and Possibility because if these women can find their place, posi on and purpose and live it so can You. th

Launched online 12 July 2017 and it quickly became a Bestseller within 24hours on Amazon. So, I encourage you to get a copy for yourself and gi it to friends and family especially in this fes ve season and for the new year.

You will also see ar cles, poems, quiz and the 3Ms – Music, Movie & Medita on for your reading delight.

If this is your very first me of mee ng me, allow me to introduce myself, my name is Omowunmi Olunloyo aka Toks; the editor in chief of The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine. I hope you enjoy reading through our pages so much you will follow and share with your friends and family.

In closing, I want to say a big thank you for reading our 5

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magazine. If you like what you read here, please help us share the link and spread the word. With your help we can get more ladies aware of The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine.

If you have any ideas or sugges ons you would like to see here as long as it is purpose related, feel free to send me a message here The journey con nues in 2023 for The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine; here is to Authen city, Boldness, Clarity, Dazzling and Excep onal, Cheers UNTIL NEXT ISSUE I WISH YOU A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY MERRY NEW YEAR, REMEMBER AS LO N G A S YO U A R E A L I V E , YO U H AV E A N OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE. To Living In Purpose, Omowunmi aka Toks

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CELEBRATING MY ONE IN A MILLION MUM

FINDING YOUR PLACE, POSITION & PURPOSE

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10 PURPLE PATCHES

Granola, Muesli & Snack pots

02 35

INTERVIEW WITH SOME

15-32 PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY

29 CELEBRATING A LIFE OF AN ICON

12 PURPOSEFULLY CREATED 25 CREATING YOUR REALITY 34-40 PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY 3Ms

OVERCOMER

A Christian Family Movie

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MY DAILY CONFESSION

CONTENT PAGE 7

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Featured Contributors

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Cele brat ing

MY ONE IN A MILLION MOTHER Words are not enough to say exactly how I feel.

You have been my rock when I could not stand My cushion when I had no place to lay my head My wings when I could not fly anymore My strength when I had none left in me My support when I had no place to turn to My bank when I had no money on me My food bank when I had nothing to eat My voice when I could speak no more My defender when I had no fight left in me I love you more than words can ever portray You mean so much to me Should I have to come through this road again I will choose you over and over and over again I love you very much mom.

Thank you for everything and much more I can't even begin to list all the goodness you have shown Not just to me as a daughter but to and not limited to Your family, Our family, Your friends My friends, Your cousins, Total strangers Your extended family at large Ma, words are not enough I bless you today with everything I have in me You will live a long full healthy life You will reap the harvest of your hands You will enjoy the night time of your life Ma, I love you so much I am celebrating My One in a Million Mom In the land of the living Francisca Fasheke Okin (Nee Cardoso) 9

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Find Your

PLACE, POSITION &

PURPOSE Admit it, you've been asked that ques on too many mes, "So, what is your life's purpose?" in every social gathering, church event, conferences even at trainings. You smile, nod and reply, " I think (blah, blah blah) and (blah, blah, blah). Repea ng your job tle and where you work as your life purpose or perhaps you say I don't know I am s ll searching.

How do you find your place, posi on & purpose in life and occupy it? I'm not talking about your employment, your daily du es, or even your longterm goals. I mean the reason why you're here — the very reason you exist. Why are you here? Perhaps you feel you have lost yourself, maybe you are beginning to worry a li le or a lot about your life and maybe you are losing sleep at mes?

Perhaps where you want to be is where you are designing your life so it is a true reflec on of your purpose and maybe you want the joy of living according to your purpose; and perhaps where you want to be in your life is where you are making a difference.

According to vocabulary.com to find something means to discover it; to determine the existence, presence, or fact of; come upon, as if by accident;

obtain through effort or management; succeed in reaching; arrive at. A place is posi on, an area, a spot, or a space; an area set aside for a par cular purpose; assign a loca on to; an abstract mental loca on.

A posi on is a point where something is located, as in on a map or the posture it's arranged in such as an upright posi on, a job in an organisa on; an item on a list, or in a sequence; the act of pu ng something in a certain place.

When you do something with purpose, you do it with determina on. When your ac vi es have a purpose, you have an aim or inten on in mind. Purpose is what something is used for; an an cipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned ac ons.

A woman's primary call is to be a helper. You were made to help. Every celebrated woman has helped e.g., Esther the Queen, Deborah the Prophetess and a judge, Ruth wife of Boaz, Abigail wife of Nabal, Mary mother of Jesus and the list is not exhaus ve.

There is a place that God has prepared for you John 14:1-6 that is why you can approach life with calmness and peace because God has prepared a place. There is reserved sign where your person is

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concerned. All you must do is find your way into the place.

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3.

Know where you are: where are you right now? What seasons are you in? What works have you done? What is burning on the inside of you? What has God said to you?

What makes you angry? What are you passionate about? Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, Ecclesiastes 9:10. The key lies in the answers to all these ques ons.

4.

Know your fears: what is holding you back?

What self-limi ng belief are you holding on to? What scares you? What is your mindset?

What is stopping you? Deuteronomy 31:6, Isaiah 41:13, 2Tim1: 7. Release your fears to God.

5.

Know when to start: ming is everything.

Seek Gods face and spend me in His presence and God will reveal himself to you.

God has all the answers. Ma hew 6:33, Jeremiah 29:11

Think about it for a moment; reflect on your journey so far. There must be a reason why you survived all the challenges that happened in your life. Seriously think about it again.

You persevered and endured in difficult situa ons, you fought back (the good fight of faith), even when you did not have any fight le in you. You weathered the storm, you withstood opposi on and infact when you look back, and you don't know how you made it this far.

You need to realise that the challenges you go through are not meant to bring you down; but to s r you up; they are not yours they are for your genera on. God kept you, protected you and covered you; how in the world could you think that you went through all of that for nothing?

There must something in front of you that is more important than everything that is behind you. You must be significant otherwise you won't have the opposi on that you have in your life.

This is for you; if you are sick and red of feeling sick and red and ready to break out of the box and be all that God has called you to be. I want to share with you how to get from where you are to where you want to be.

STEPS TO FINDING YOUR PLACE, POSITION AND PURPOSE 1.

2.

Know who you are: who are you? The Bible is clear about that in Gen1: 26-28.

Understanding who you are make a massive impact on how you act, behave and carry yourself. Believe and say what the bible says you are con nually.

“Your life is meant to make impact”. God's will is that your life makes impact, start living that life Now. There are lots of needs in the world, there is a ministry in you, and there is work to be done. You can only func on when you are in your place. Find your place, posi on and purpose and stay in your place. Occupy ll Jesus comes.

For further informa on and advice about finding your place, posi on and purpose goto www.omowunmiolunloyo.blogspot.co.uk Connect with us:

fh

ps://www.facebook.com/omowunmi.olunloyo h ps://www.instagram.com/omowunmi_toks/ h ps://www.linkedin.com/in/toks-omowunmiolunloyo-58363110/

To living a life of purpose, Omowunmi aka Toks

Know you gi and calling what do you have is the ques on Elisha asked the widow in 2Kings 4: 1-7 and she replied nothing SAVE a jar of oil. This jar of oil is what paid her debt and changed her life. So, I ask you what do you have. Romans11: 29, Proverbs 18:16.

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Purposefully CREATED

LET'S START FROM THE VERY BEGINNING “Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us” (Gen 1: 26a NLT).

In the beginning God had a plan, though the earth was without form and void and darkness covered th11e face of the deep, yet God had an image of a beau ful earth, with luscious garden filled with beau ful flowers, plants, herbs, and animals grazing around the field; with lots of fishes in the sea and birds chirping in trees. He had an image of Himself enjoying the beau ful scenery and tending the gardens and animals in it.

Thus, God set to work, He created the heavens and the earth with the Word and the Spirit; they created the beau ful earth we s ll live in ll date. “Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us” (Gen 1: 26a NLT).

God who is triune in nature was referring to the Son and the Holy Spirit about making man as a replica of them. God, though the Father and the head; He

cannot do anything without His Son and the Holy Spirit. I believe man was first made in the mind of God and He must have shared this vision with His Son and the Holy Spirit. Hence the reason He said “Let us” referring to the Son, Holy Spirit, and Himself.

God's plan was to make a replica of himself, though in human nature to oversee the earth. In today's world, we call it a clone. However, in the mind of God, it was more than a clone, it was His seed, His child, His complete being.

Therefore, man was created with the fullness and power of God's nature without any clause of gender.

“So, God created human beings in his own image; in the image of God, he created them; male and female he created them.” (Gen 1.27 NLT). Therefore, regardless of gender we are created as God in his own image and a er his likeness.

The agenda of GOD was to create man both male and

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female to be just like Him with all His quali es, genes, and DNA. Therefore, Woman, you are created just like your Father, and you possess same quali es as Him, creator, thinker, innovator the list is endless, and He created you to be master over all things. Can I reassure you that you are not an a erthought?

Although God made the male first, and woman second; however, you were both part of God's agenda from the beginning. God knew that man could not live by himself, but he wanted man- male to find that out for himself. God brought every animal in the field to man to name them, but man did not find a helper just right for him. God saved the crea on of the helper- female for last.

Woman, God has need of you to co-create and populate the earth and man has great need of you to jointly fulfil the plan and purpose of God. You were created as a helpmate because man cannot go down this road by himself. He needs all of you, your femininity- gentleness, sensi vity, finesse, empathy, emo ons, intui on, wisdom, perspec ve, support, and love. None of the animals that God brought to man possessed any of these quali es that man had been longing for, but God knew what was missing, He knew man's longing within his heart and soul, so He got back to work. You just had to be made perfect, a mixture of compassion, nurturance, gentleness with a load of tolerance, empathy, sensi vity to make you sweet. Another mixture of perseverance, for tude,

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asser veness, diligence, resilience to make you strong; balanced with vivaciousness, crea veness, confidence, independence to make you a leader. God finished you off with a graceful and lustrous body frame with sleek hair and tender eyes to make you beau ful just like Him. Man is placed as the head of the home because God is a God of order (1 Cor 14: 33& 40), he is in charge not because the woman is subordinate to him or cannot rule but because without the order of a leader and helpmate then the earth will return to chaos and darkness. Hence the reasoning behind the saying, behind a successful man there is a woman.

Dear woman, God created you with the same nature and power has Himself and He skilfully created you with a rib from man so that you can iden fy with his pain, burden, and assignment. You are not without a calling or ministry of your own you are called into the ministry of womanhood. This ministry is not inferior to man's ministry; they are both valuable and honourable in the plan of God because one cannot do without the other just as God cannot do without the son or the Holy Spirit.

Jummy Poku

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1. Ÿ Ÿ

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didn't become part of the sta s cs for black underperforming children in the UK. So, if that meant to sacrifice my own happiness for a season to ensure my children were shielded from the backlash of society, then that was what had to happen, but my children would not be labelled by society for my own choices.

Please tell us a bit about yourself?

Who are you?

What do you do?

Yemisi Akindele is a brand, I was born in Birmingham to African parents and raised in Nigeria. I have four beau ful children and four amazing g ra n d c h i l d re n . I fo u n d e d H i g h Achievers Academy over 25 years ago, it started out as a supplementary study centre and has since emerged into an educa onal giant that has branched out into various segments of educa onal services, including an NGO that serves to empower women and girls' educa on, a well-resourced library in Lagos Nigeria to meet the needs of local children. I have also authored a book GREATNESS in me and my CHILD, to equip families in developing themselves and their children.

2.

5.

Priority plays a big part in my life and with this comes impromptu moments. This means even when you've planned, that plan can quickly become thwarted. But we move on and make the best of the situa on.

6.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Energe c!!! Full of vigour!!!

Rewarding!!!

3.

How do you deal with what you don't plan?

Can you share with us all you do?

INTERVIEW

I spend my me enjoying my four grandchildren, being kind to myself by travelling, albeit mostly for work, I am an Educa onal Consultant, as well as a L e ga l C o n s u l ta nt , I co a c h a n d empower women in areas of selfdevelopment, I teach legal English to non-na ve English-speaking professionals including CEO's, Senior smartly around my children. I Managers and Directors. taught my four children (M/F) chores very early on in life. I taught 4.

How do you manage all you do them how to respect themselves as a Busy Working Mother and a n d o t h e r s , h o w t o b e s ll achieve your goal. independent and responsible. I showed them what it took and Mul task!!! Most women juggle their meant to be successful in life and lives with so much finesse and that's ins lled those values in them, what makes us unique. Though, I'm no there was no other way but that. longer juggling children with work as My children are black, and it was they are all adults now, when I did, I my responsibility to ensure they priori sed, I sacrificed, and I worked

WITH A PURPOSE

DRIVEN LADY

YEMISI AKINDELE

So, let's talk about women like you and I who in the past were not living fully, who have se led, they just do the same thing repeatedly, they want more but can't seem to in a way of escape, can you share your experience on this and how you overcome it ?

Women like me don't have the me and luxury to live fully in the first place. When you're a teen mom, you are judged by society and as such, you either bury your head in the sand and sink or rise above it and swim to conquer.

Women need to be kind to themselves, they shouldn't have me for pity par es nor allow the opinions of others slow or shut them down, get on with it and be the best of yourself. My mo o is 'show them'

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What was the breaking point that made you change the course of direc on for your life.

Can you share the new experiences you have begun to see because of this dras c measure.

As a teen mom, from an African household, you not only have to defend yourself from the en re con nent of Africa, but you must remove the 'garment of shame' you've supposedly clothed your family with. Your saving grace is to be as successful as you can be to redeem yourself. This simply proves to me that, it does not ma er if you're a teen mom or not, if you set out to be successful in life you will achieve GREATNESS no ma er how your life starts. “Your la er end shall be be er".

8.

What is the ul mate dream/goal for yourself?

To build an elderly people home in my late mother's name, using the house she named a er me and gi ed to me as an inheritance.

9.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

My cooking skills.

10.

In closing what 3 things would you encourage women to do more of? Ÿ Invest in yourself through the word of

knowledge, skills, and educa on development. Ÿ Be kind to yourself and be a faith-based woman. Ÿ Be inten onal about being happy, pamper yourself, take a break, refuse abuse of any kind, and ask for help when needed, you can't ask when it's too late...

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Is there anything you would like to share with our readers that we have not talked about. Ÿ Be kind to yourself. Ÿ Be a lover of Proverbs 31. Ÿ Be inten onal about your own happiness

and become financially free.

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companies with my husband. Those companies range over several industries, law, HR, business management consultancy, speaking and training company etc.., so our lives are full on.

Please tell us a bit about yourself?

1 Who are you? What do you do?

My name is Bebe Clement, the eldest of 12 children. I am Nigerian and I am married with 2 sons. My background is employment law and alongside my husband, we run a group of small companies.

2

On Tuesdays I host a live radio show called 'Bebe Means Business, which is a program that educates, informs, and imparts knowledge par cularly to the black community on all things related to business and entrepreneurship, with the aim to help people create genera onal wealth and become financially free. I have been blessed to have some really dope guests on the show such as Jeff Lestz, the MD of Genistar and world-renowned Rabbi Daniel Lapin.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Well, no two days are the same really which is good because I get bored quite easily. I start with morning devo on because I feel everything stems from that. How I handle the successes or failures of the day, my a tude towards people, etc are o en determined by the quality of the me I have spent in God's presence. I always start with gra tude because I am always humbled and in awe of the mercy that God has shown me in giving me another day; just the grace to open my eyes, look over and see my husband, reminds me of how unbelievably blessed I am and always makes me begin with praise.

I am also a visi ng lecturer at Bayes Business School, which is the business arm of City, University of London, where I lecture on Professional Business Skills once a week.

INTERVIEW

Then my husband and I have been on a joint personal development journey for a few years now, so we will listen to a short mo va onal talk by someone like Myles Munroe, Earl Nigh ngale, Jim Rohn or Les Brown, and then BEBE CLEMENT discuss what we took away from it and make a couple of personal that sets the tone for the day. phone calls, and then return to Then I sit at my desk and make a list of my office and work through ll all I need to achieve that day and evening when my husband gets divide those tasks into 3 columns: back. We then spend the Impera ve, Important, 'Can wait', and evening together, catching up begin to work my way through star ng on our day, check in with the with the impera ve ones. I am quite boys, watch TV etc.

WITH A PURPOSE

DRIVEN LADY

focussed and must make a conscious Can you share with us all you do? effort to remember to stop to eat, and I 3 usually work straight through ll mida ernoon. I might then have lunch, As I said, I run a group of small

Other mes are usually taken up with speaking engagements and wri ng. I have just finished my s e c o n d b o o k c a l l e d ' We a l t h Crea on, God's Way. How do you manage all you do as a Busy Working Mother and s ll achieve your goal.

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They say that the evidence of desire is pursuit, and I am a strong believer that you will somehow find me to do whatever is important to you. If binge watching Ne lix is what is important to you, you will find me to do it, no ma er how busy you are.

I am quite focussed, and I live a purpose driven life. My Lord and Master can also call me home whenever he pleases, so it is important to me that on that day

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when I stand before him, I am able to say I did the best I could with what I was given. My children are also grown and away at college and university now, so I have a bit more me to focus on other things.

o f s e l i n g . O n c e w h e n I wa s preparing for a preaching engagement, the Lord led me to read about Terah. Most Chris ans don't know who Terah was. They should do, not only because he was Abraham's father, but also because How do you deal with what 5 his life is a great warning about the you don't plan? dangers of 'se ling'.

It depends on what it is. Life The original vision to go to Canaan happens, so I try to make allowances was not actually given to Abraham, it for that, but there have of course was given to Terah, but the bible says been moments of frustra on when I in Genesis 11, that when Terah set end up in tears, especially when out to go to Canaan, when he got to things are taking a lot longer to be Haran, he se led there and the very a c c o m p l i s h e d t h a n I h a d next verse 32 says 'Terah lived 205 an cipated. years and he died in Haran'.

A couple of years ago I listened to a sermon by Dr Cynthia James and through that sermon I have come to understand that God moves at the speed of purpose: His purpose, so there is no point in me ge ng frustrated because He is not going to go any faster just for me!

'success' and to some degree I was, but I knew deep inside I could be more, but in hindsight I think I was too busy to be frui ul! So, I began to cry out to God to show me what exactly I was supposed to be doing.

One day, a woman came to preach in my church. She was not a very good speaker and by her own admission, she was finding it difficult to get into her stride and was floundering, but she was speaking about purpose & something about what she said resonated with me. Later she gave an alter call for all those who felt there was more to their life than what they were currently experiencing. I couldn't join the line fast enough. I wept and wept. I'm sure people must have thought I was in sin of some kind, but I was just hungry for more of God and his plan for my life. I later le that church because I knew I was too involved in church to be available to God on the level that I needed to be to prepare for the next stage of my life.

If Terah had done anything else with his life, the Bible would have recorded it, but he just died there and I believe for all people that se le, death comes a lot sooner than the physical one. If our life consists only of ge ng up every day, going to work and paying bills, then 'death' has set in, because that is not what God put So, let's talk about women like you on the earth for. You are you and I who in the past were supposed to be enriching other not living fully, who have people's lives in some way or the se led, they just do the same 6 other and in so doing, you will find thing repeatedly, they want your own personal fulfilment. more but can't seem to find a Can you share the new way of escape, can you share Look at what Terah missed, Canaan 8 experiences you have your experience on this and begun to see because was a land filled with 'milk and of this dras c measure. how you overcome it. honey' and he missed that because

At a young age my dad sat me down and said to me 'Bebe, life does not owe you anything: Rather, life is wai ng to see what you are going to add to it! 'So, it was always ins lled in me to be the very best that I can be, and when I became a Chris an, that increased my resolve even more, knowing that God has a purpose for everyone's life, that my life is God's investment and that he is expec ng a good return. on his investment.

he se led and it doesn't mean that Haran wasn't good, but it meant that like anyone that se les, Terah gave up the 'great' for the 'good'.

What was the breaking point 7 that made you change the course of direc on for your life.

Nearly everything I'm doing now, and the rewards thereof was because of that decision: The global speaking engagements, the books I've wri en, the greater impact on people's lives, the increased financial rewards, the closer more meaningful walk with When I was in my 40's I began to feel an 'unrest' in my spirit. I was a leader God, all flowed from that desire in a large popular denomina on to be more. church & was doing great things for God and anyone looking from the I also want to talk about the dangers outside would have thought I was a

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9

What is the ul mate dream/goal for yourself?

ISSUE #7

Kind regards, Bebe Clement

To hear my master, say 'Well done, good and faithful servant’ What is one thing people 10 would be surprised to know about you?

I'm very shy and reserved.

In closing what 3 things 11 would you encourage women to do more of?

1.

S p e a k e r. T r a i n e r. B u s i n e s s Consultant.

Author- 'How to go from employee to entrepreneur' & 'Wealth Crea on God's Way' Tel: 0208 316 5386 Website:www.bebeclement.com T: @bebeclement

Instagram: bebe_clement Spend more me with God in the secret place. There is ‘Put your signature on life’ no subs tute for that if you want to live a successful life, because that is where he reveals himself to us in a very personal way.

2.

Stop looking for money, just seek to be a blessing and serve others.

3.

Priori ze family over everything.

Is there anything you would

12 like to share with our readers that we have not talked about

I have an au s c son. Anyone raising a child with special needs will tell you how challenging and life draining it can be. That's my story, but everybody has a story: Some are divorced, some are in very difficult marriages, others have had health challenges, etc. Tzs to refuse to use your story as a crutch for mediocrity or an excuse for failure. Keep moving forward. Decide that no ma er what, you are s ll going to fulfil God's plan for your life and then daily ask God to help you do just that.

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Diary Of A

PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY WITH OMOWUNMI OLUNLOYO AKA TOKS

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A ROUGH ROAD Life was hard for me. People did not know that I was lonely and sad. That was then. This is now.

Now I am happy, loved and life is great.

“Accept yourself, love yourself, and keep moving forward.

If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down.”

Roy T. Benne THE BEGINNING I was at the darkest point of my life in 2011; it seems like such a long me ago now. I was in the valley. I was trying desperately to understand everything that was going on. This season felt like forever, my world was crashing down on me. Each element of my existence was falling apart, one by one and it appeared like there was nothing I could do to stop it. I could not change it. I felt so helpless and hopeless.

My life journey was a roller coaster ride, with low and high moments and challenges that I could not control.

One of my greatest challenges was accep ng that I was enough, that I was good enough just the way I was.

Instead of trying to be somebody that I wasn't.

I sacrificed my true purpose for fear of rejec on, abandonment, and loneliness. I struggled with low self-esteem and fi ng in the crowd. I could not see past my shortcomings, I felt like a loser. My rela onship was affected; I was disrespected, separated, and abused. Called all kind of names under the sun and my self-worth was next to none. I a ended all kinds of programs and training to prove to myself that I was good enough and should be recognised. I thought I was una rac ve, and I wanted to change all of that. I did not love myself.

I had wanted to really understand everything that led me to believe that I was not good enough. Did it have to do with the way I was brought up? What had happened in my life to affect me so much now?

ISSUE #7

NIGERIAN I grew up in a beau ful neighbourhood in Lagos Nigeria with my two sisters. I was raised by my parents who were very disciplined and principled.

Both of my parents are well educated. They were what you would desire parents to be, hardworking, pa ent, believe the best of you and very loving. My parents, especially my dad is o en referred to as “Baba o,” which is translated as “my father” by young and old. He was everybody's friend. He was fun, full of life, happy and a very generous giver. My parents expected the best from us, always reminding and encouraging us to go higher.

I spent my childhood with memories of many happy moments. When I started secondary school, I was excited. I was just ten years old. I began to experience different encounters that challenged who I was. I tried my best to fit in and join the crowd as much as I could.

As I moved from one class year to another, I experienced different issues no ma er what I did. I was not good enough. I was not accepted as part of the crew. Do not get me wrong, despite all I faced, I had a few friends. They are s ll friends today and they accepted me as me. At that me, I did not know what they saw in me, but in hindsight I realised there was more to me that meets the eye.

In addi on, towards the end of my secondary school I was ill. I spent several weeks in and out of hospital recovering, which was a horrible event in my life.

COLLEGE, FAILED RELATIONSHIP

AND MARRIAGE

Despite the various challenges in my senior high school, I completed it and got admission into college. Life became good again. I made new friends, and I enjoyed my me at my new college.

Everything was going great. I was happy again.

I also started a rela onship that was supposed to lead to marriage. A er 2 and a half years it ended abruptly. There was no reason or explana on given.

I was devastated as you can imagine. Another rejec on that I could not explain.

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My self-esteem was knocked back again, and I began to struggle again. But somehow, I found a way to love again, and I entered my second rela onship and got married a er 4 years.

For some reason, I thought that because I was now a “MRS,” all the issues I had been dealing with would go away. Boy was I wrong. The shock that I felt as I began to live as a married woman was undeniable. I was dreaming about a fairy tale world where everyone lived happily ever a er. My true life was not like this. I struggled to find my place, posi on, and purpose without my spouse. I could not see how I could do anything without him.

MY JOURNAL During this period of my life, I found journaling and began to write more frequently. I wrote every day about everything that rocked my world, the following extract are taken from it: “Do not faint, your me for reward is here keep at it.” This was spoken to me in January 2013 by one of my mentors. I received the word but did not see how that could happen. I believed in the faith he had in the words he said to me.

“Lord, you know all, and see the heart of everybody, nothing is hidden from your sight. I feel out of place, I am not comfortable, I want to serve but I am not used, it appears as if I am not needed. I am talked on and about, where is the love? I have been told not to take offense, help me, Lord. I need you more than ever. I am lost I need your arms all around me; I want to feel your love right now. Speak to me. If you can use anything Lord, you can use me.” I wrote this at a me when I was about to give up on everything and I turned to my Lord for help.

In 2014, I wrote “Lord, I am not happy right now, I am being told I say things the way they are. I feel hurt and disappointed about the feedback. I feel targeted now. I am not pleased. I choose to leave it all to you.”

I carried out a purpose quiz online in 2015, as part of finding myself as I was beginning to love myself and this was the assessment I got back: Life is good. You have seen some real breakthrough in your life, and you are ready to begin living at the highest levels of the purpose pyramid! It is clear that you have a good understanding of what you what from life and have skills and experience to help you get there. Yet, you might not be fully aware of your purpose, or how to allow it to guide and enhance every aspect of your life. For you, there is s ll powerful unrealised poten al. I was excited at this point because, I was beginning to give myself a break and a chance. I was not being too hard on myself even though I was s ll ba ling with not being good enough. The assessment gave me hope.

To be Con nued….

Watch out for the concluding part in the next issue.

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IS Change LOSS? Kyo had moved to a different school The school was better than the one before It looked much cleaner for sure But it had quite strict rules And he couldn't believe that he had a uniform But he saw that he was taught at a high quality Then soon saw the good in his unexpected situation.

Loss may be a win in disguise But you'll never know if you don't try.

ISSUE #7

Purpose By: Tobi Olunloyo P – Packed with Potential U – Unquenchable Motive R – Raised with a Reason P – Perfectly set Plan O – Overflowing Faith S – Stunning ray of Hope E – Excellence in every action

Tumi Olunloyo 22

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2 Timothy 1:9 (NKJV) who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began,

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Lady's

Corner

ISSUE #7

Brain Teaser

Let me see how fast you are...

THIS IS A small CHALLENGE 4 INTELLIGENT BRAINS:

The name of a country is hiding in the consecutive letters within a sentence.

For example, FRANCE is hiding in, the sentence "The runners who lived at the top of the cliff ran centuries ago”. (clifF RAN CEenturies).

Find the name of the country hiding in the consecutive letters within these sentences.

1. You all must pay it back, or each of you will be in trouble.

2. Was Doctor Dolittle's favourite animal a glib yak?

3. A true optimist will never let hope rush away.

4. How often can a daydream come true?

5. Is there a health spa in this hotel?

6. They are going in diametrically opposite directions.

7. Is the county fair a nice place to visit?

8. The foot with which I lead is my left one.

9. He owns a ranch in Arizona.

10. The foods we deny ourselves are usually tasty.

Send your correct answers with the title “Lady's Corner Answers” to my Instagram handle @ omowunmi_toks https://www.instagram.com/omowunmi_toks/ to win a complimentary gift

Source: Shared as received

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THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY MAGAZINE

I

s a brand-new coaching program. It is special session for busy working women just like you that want to create their reality so that they can live their best life.

I will be sharing with you everything I've learnt in manifesting the life that I currently live in and so much more.

You will get clear on where you are now and what is standing in your way and along your way. I will share powerful tips that will help you clarify your vision, cut through the confusion and frustration, and give you power to make choices with confidences and certainty.

ISSUE #7

CREATE YOUR

REALITY

Register Now at omotokin@yahoo.com with the title “I am ready to Create My Reality” and we will send all necessary information to you Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

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SOME OF THE BENEFITS INCLUDE: Get clear on your big why Written positive outcome for your life Get support to live your best life ever Becoming good in the areas you most enjoy A renewed sense of energy and transformation WHAT DOES IT ENTAIL? Biweekly accountability calls Create Your Reality Workbook Monthly Q&A session Unlimited Email access during coaching life cycle Relevant Resources/Template & much more BONUSES 1. Join like-minded women in a Group 2. Step Out – Release Your Inner Greatness eBook 3. E copy of My Daily Confession 4. 15% discount of f Create Your Reality Retreats/Events 5. 7 Success Books that will build your capacity in 2023

Register here to start at omotokin@yahoo.com Have any other questions not covered here; please email us at omotokin@yahoo.com To creating your reality, Toks

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ISSUE #7

START A FOOD BUSINESS Do you know anyone who likes cooking, is good at it and wants to build a profitable food business I'm running an online class where I will draw from my 15years+ of helping businesses succeed in the food sector.

The class is titled - How To Start & Grow Your Own Successful Food Business for without Stress.

Can you please connect me with anyone who you know would be interested in this course as spaces are very limited.

Click on the link below and send a message in the DM with the word “Food” and more details will be shared with you: I am interested

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ISSUE #7

You Are

Packaged For Jumoke Ekong And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28 KJV As a child of God, we need to believe one truth and that is nothing happens to us by accident. I am saying that God has a perfect blueprint attached to each of us and there is always a way in God. Always!

g That loyal friend That disloyal friend That difficult husband.

That loss of job That challenge That wrong judgment.

It's all in THE PLAN.

good.

All, Nothing missing, Nothing broken, Nothing lacking.

Nothing catches our Father by surprise. It's all in the plan.

Our Lord Jesus even in death was heading towards glory.

Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

1 Corinthians 2:8 KJV We are in God's larger blueprint for the kingdom.

Just relax and trust Him and it will surprise you how beautifully it will all turn out.

For He makes ALL THINGS beautiful in His own time.

There is a way of escape.

Oh yes, He does.

The cumulative result is GLORY. Please note that the sickness, betrayal, job loss might have been orchestrated by Satan but ALL AND EVERYTHING will work together for your

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CELEBRATING the Life of an Icon

Mrs Olajumoke Kabad Imabong Ekong A woman to celebrate A life to be thankful for A light to many A mother most loved Your type is rare The memory of the righteous is blessed I remember I am grateful

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ISSUE #7

friends, but I have few ride or die ones in my circle. Time management is another key factor in pu ng all things together nicely. I priori ze ac vi es and you'll only find me where I'm produc ve, me is of the essence.

Please tell us a bit about yourself?

1 Who are you? What do you do?

My name is Folasade Edokpayi, born in Ibadan, Oyo State and raised in Lagos state, a na ve of Ijebu Ode, Ogun State Nigeria. I'm married with three beau ful and blessed children. I also have many spiritual children too numerous to men on. I work as a family worker 9-5, Monday to Friday supervising contacts between children in care and their biological parents.

Aside my professional career, I'm also a serial entrepreneur. I own a fabric business (Fola Fabrics on (Facebook) and iyalaje_uk_ fabrics (Instagram).

2

How do you deal with what you don't plan?

I'm usually calm that's one thing I'm known for; in such instances I ask the Holy Spirit to help me. I believe there's no problem without solu on, there's nothing new under the earth. Like I earlier said, I ask for help a lot because I'm not an island.

What does a typical day look like for you?

So, let's talk about women like you and I who in the past were not living fully, who have se led, they just do the same 6 thing repeatedly, they want more but can't seem to find a way of escape, can you share your experience on this and how you overcome it.

My typical day starts around 4am with prayers and supplica ons ahead of my day. A er prayers, I post contents on a l l my s o c i a l m e d i a p l a o r m s (Instagram, Facebook, telegram, and WhatsApp). Then I get ready for school run and work. During my break me, I respond to my DMs and check on my social media ac vi es.

3

Can you share with us all you do?

5

INTERVIEW

WITH A PURPOSE

So aside my day job and business. I'm also a child of God who is passionate about soul winning, I go from town to FOLASADE EDOKPAYI town around the UK preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'm also ac vely How do you manage all you do as a Busy Working 4 involved with the Nigeria community Mother and s ll achieve in Luton and Bedfordshire, I connect your goal. and signposts people to their needs.

I draw strength and inspira on I'm also a business consultant, I have from the proverbs 31 woman. helped people home and abroad start Honestly, the grace of God is their own businesses. sufficient. I always ask for help when I'm not able to put all together. Also, I have over the years built a support system in friends. I don't keep a lot of

DRIVEN LADY

Hmmm! Not living life fully can be frustra ng especially if you don't have a clear picture of what you want for yourself. I think the first p l a c e i s t o k n o w y o u r s e l f, capabili es, and determina on to want to live a purposeful and inten onal life. Prior to reloca ng abroad, I worked in the banking industry in Nigeria for a few years and also had a business on the side.

I've always done business as far as my secondary school days. When I relocated in 2007, I couldn't fit in immediately and so I did what came my way as a passage to where I'd like to be. Then I started a family and with each maternity leave (nine months) I will take up a course. Then I developed interest in children, young people, and families. So, I

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worked briefly in a nursery but that wasn't for me. I also had the opportunity to volunteer as a family worker and making welfare visits to schools and homes and I loved it. So, I proceeded to university to study child & family studies as well as child & adolescents' studies which led to where I am today. You see along the way, people tried to lure me to what they seem good for me because they feel fulfilled in it. I thank God I didn't go their way, of course it caused rela onship break down, but I am happy with my chosen career. I couldn't have been happier. One thing with me is that I don't follow crowd, I stay true to myself and what I'm passionate about. I pray and listen to what God wants me to do at every point in my life.

What was the breaking point 7 that made you change the course of direc on for your life.

The breaking point for me was that I have so much in me, yet I was doing so li le. To whom much is given much is expected. I realised my passion at the me was to work with vulnerable first- me mothers and their babies. While undertaking some courses, I was also volunteering at a stay and play group. My mentor at the me would allow me lead sessions and talk freely with mothers in the group and I was good at it. I started a rac ng women of colour into the group, it was good to see African parents take their children to a stay and play group where parents can meet other parents and socialise.

Can you share the new 8 experiences you have begun to see because of this dras c measure.

ISSUE #7

provoking them. There's an increase in the number of African children in care just because of ignorance. I have also been able to signpost parents to courses that will help in raising children in the United Kingdom.

9

What is the ul mate dream/goal for yourself?

Firstly, my goal is to make heaven.

Secondly to raise godly and responsible children in this age of moral decadent. Thirdly to expand my business and support the less privileged on a larger scale.

What is one thing people 10 would be surprised to know about you?

Must people think I don't go out, but I do solo ou ngs a lot. I've done quite a lot this year both within and outside the UK. I love to reflect to get be er.

In closing what 3 things

11 would you encourage women to do more of?

Women should please: a. Take me to rest and look a er themselves. Have a me to retreat and pamper yourself b. Mingle with people who are more knowledgeable, successful, and experienced than you, don't see it as in mida on. You'll learn more from people of great minds. c. Run away from people who have no vision, it can be dangerous and be focused.

1.Is there anything you would like to share with our readers that we have not talked about.

FOLASADE EDOKPAYI

The new experience has allowed me I love to travel, if you're looking for a to advise my fellow Africans on ways travel buddy, I am right here. of chas sing children without

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I grew up with parents that taught me the essence of hard work and educa on but also encouraged me to be my own person and express myself; however, as I grew, this was not encouraged, and our culture had its limita ons to the female gender in respect of communica ng your beliefs especially if it was contrary to the popular one. I felt a pain when I could not express what I felt was right and resolved to always stay true to myself. This is the basis of my legal background and more recently my goals to help women remove limi ng beliefs from their founda ons. I have found I am most comfortable staying true to myself inspite of the odds.

Please tell us a bit about yourself?

1 Who are you? What do you do?

Nekita Paul-Okafor also known as Kitahpaul “the lifestyle Guru” (LLB Hons; LLM; LPC); is Lawyerpreneur with an LLM in Business Law from University of London. She is an outgoing, diverse mul -tasking professional, who is fulfilling her life's divine purpose by encouraging and mo va ng others to find and fulfil their life's purpose. She does this through mentoring, coaching and empowerment speaking. She is also an experienced Lawyer and Project Management professional with more than 20 years of corporate service under her belt.

7

2 What does a typical day look

like for you?

Nekita wears lot of hats working as a Project Manager 9-5 and part- me as a Solicitor split between morning and evenings.

What was the breaking point that made you change the course of direc on for your life.

There was a customary law in my state that did not allow women to own land, and I had a friend that her parents died and willed their land to Can you share with us all her and her sisters, but she could not 3 you do? take ownership because of this law.

This felt very unjust, and I got I am an entrepreneur and life coach together others with related stories, which are side businesses I am and we got a class ac on going building. which eventually got the law How do you manage all you changed.

I know the power of do as a Busy Working 4 women united, I resolved to unite Mother and s ll achieve your goal. women as much as possible as the power was great when they came I try to put my ac vi es for the day NEKITA PAUL-OKAFOR together. down in my diary and try to hit all my Can you share the new targets s ll working on that.

8 experiences you have So, let's talk about women begun to see because How do you deal with what of this dras c measure. like you and I who in the past 5 you don't plan? were not living fully, who The Pandemic made me realise me have se led, they just do the 6 is short and we all need to reach for I repriori ze if I have a sudden same thing repeatedly, they those dreams and goals NOW, not emergency. I look at the to do list for want more but can't seem to tomorrow, make that impact now. the day and reschedule less important find a way of escape, can you As a result of these, I have powerful ac vi es. share your experience on this tes monies from women who have more confidence and are impac ng and how you overcome it. others as well because I was true to myself.

INTERVIEW

WITH A PURPOSE

DRIVEN LADY

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9

ISSUE #7

What is the ul mate dream/goal for yourself?

Impac ng women who lack self-belief all over the world not just from Africa.

Changing households one woman at a me.

10

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I used to drive the underground train In closing what 3 things

11 would you encourage women to do more of?

Ÿ Plan your

me, including 'ME'

me. Ÿ Love and encourage yourself you

are doing great. Ÿ Look for role models or someone that are where you want to be study them and follow them, be consistent and inten onal.

Is there anything you would 12 like to share with our readers that we have not talked about Empoweringallwomen.org is a Non profit set up to support women who lack confidence and self-limi ng beliefs and cannot see their own poten al. It supports women to dream and use their God given talents to impact the world and shine. My last words…” Yes, you can become and do that thing you have only ever dreamed about! Do not give up on your dreams and aspira ons no ma er your journey or age. Keep that dream alive and that fire burning and you will realise it eventually ”

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No Other Name Tomike Ogunleye His awesomeness on my mind Can't get it out of my mind Your goodness & mercy hun ng me down Overwhelmed by your love Jesus I don't mind the way you express yourself my Lord & Saviour I don't mind at all...not at all I will bless the Lord at all mes His praise shall con nually be on my mouth He has put a new song in me, a six-course meal before me, There is an overflow of abundance around me Ears hear, and ngles, men and women run to the shine of my glory, bulging eyes ques oning Hearts pondering, wondering so much It leads to dancing, singing so much, It leads to much praise, oh yes!

Resounding, complete, impressively thorough, praises to my Jesus He frees from anxious fear He gets His own out of ght spots Oh yes! I'm talking about God, the one that sets up a circle of protec on around us when we pray, I dare u to open your mouth & taste, open your eyes & see There's no other name but JESUS

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PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY 3Ms Ë Movie Ë Music Ë Meditation

THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY MAGAZINE

ISSUE #7

MOVIE OVERCOMER

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Overcomer is a 2019 American Christian drama film directed by Alex Kendrick, who co-wrote the script with Stephen Kendrick. It is the Kendrick brothers' sixth film and their second through their subsidiary, Kendrick Brothers Productions. The film was released by Sony Pictures Releasing on August 23, 2019.

Plot John Harrison (Alex Kendrick) is a basketball coach at a high school and married to Amy (Shari Rigby).

Due to the manufacturing plant being moved to another city, all of the good basketball players, along with their families, must move also. School Principal Olivia Brooks (Priscilla Shirer) tells John that the school is losing several teachers and coaches and that she needs him to coach cross country, as she doesn't want the school to lose another program.

At the try-outs for cross country, only one student shows up. Nevertheless, John agrees to be the running coach for Hannah Scott (Aryn Wright-Thompson), who is asthmatic. Hannah lives with her grandmother, Barbara Scott (Denise Armstrong), who has been telling her all her life that both her parents are dead. Hannah also steals items from students at school and has a collection of them. One day, on his hospital visits to help the pastor, John accidentally enters the room of Thomas Hill (Cameron Arnett). Hill is blind and suffering from diabetic complications. Hill also had been a cross country runner.

After a couple of visits to see Hill, John finds out that Hill is Hannah's father. Hill abandoned Hannah and her mother when Hannah was a baby and Barbara has been trying to protect her from being hurt by him again, albeit by lying to Hannah about him. John also later finds out that the principal was Hannah's mother's friend and has been paying her tuition fees.

John tells Hannah about her father and he and Amy take her to meet him. Though reluctant at first, she eventually accepts him and starts visiting him more. Through the process she discovers herself and also strengthens her Christian faith and her belief in Jesus Christ as her Heavenly father. Hannah returns all of the stolen items and practices rigorously.

Barbara finds out about her visits to her father and angrily confronts John and Amy over letting Hannah meet her father without discussing it with her. She threatens legal action until she is chastised by Hannah for lying to her all this time. John, Amy, and Barbara then each go to God in prayer about the situation, each asking Him for forgiveness and guidance.

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On the day of the State Championship race, John gives Hannah ear buds and a player. John tells her to play the player as the race begins. Through the race, Hannah hears her father's voice of coaching and encouragement, leading her to win the race and become the state champion.

Later, Hill passes away. A couple of years later, Hannah tells her story to her cross-country friends.

Then Hannah puts a flash drive in the player and runs through the city while listening to the recording from her father which begins with "It's your 21st birthday".

Cast Ÿ Alex Kendrick as John Harrison, for mer

basketball coach who reluctantly begins coaching cross-country Ÿ Shari Rigby as Amy Harrison, John's wife Ÿ Priscilla Shirer as Olivia Brooks, the principal of

Brookshire Christian School and mentor to Hannah Scott Ÿ Cameron Arnett as Thomas Hill, a blind man and

former runner harbouring a secret past Ÿ Aryn Wright-Thompson as Hannah Scott, an

orphan and high-school cross-country runner being raised by her grandmother Ÿ Denise Armstrong as Barbara Scott, Hannah's

grandmother who raised her after her father abandoned her and her mother died. Ÿ Jack Sterner as Ethan Harrison, John Harrison's

son Ÿ Ben Davies as Coach Myers

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overcomer_(film)

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MUSIC EZE EBUBE

Grace Found Me

by Neon Adejo

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THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY MAGAZINE

More than my mouth can testify More than my mind can comprehend See I've seen the wonders of your grace I'm so sure that this is not the end Eze ebube see how far you've brought Eze ebube I'm so glad you found me worthy I can see I can tell And I know it's your grace All my days I will sing your praise My heart is full of gratitude To you and no one else but you (Thank you Jesus)

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Lord I'm here only by your grace Thank you Jesus for not giving up on me Eze Ebube See how far you've brought me Eze Ebube I'm so glad you found me worthy I can see I can tell And I know it's your grace All my days I will sing your praise Source: LyricFind Songwriters: Neon Adejo Eze Ebube lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

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MEDITATION 39

THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LADY MAGAZINE

Christian meditation is rooted in the Bible. In fact, the Bible commands us to meditate. In Joshua 1:8, God says to meditate on His word day and night so we will obey it. The psalmist says, "his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law, he meditates day and night" (Psalm 1:2). The Bible mentions meditate or meditation 20 times.

In the Old Testament there are two primary Hebrew words for meditation: Haga, which means to utter, groan, meditate, or ponder; and Sihach, which means to muse, rehearse in one's mind, or contemplate. These words can also be translated as dwell, diligently consider, and heed.

Christian Meditation: A History One form of Christian meditation that has been used by believers since at least the fourth century AD is the lectio divina. It has been traditionally used in monastic religious orders and is enjoying resurgence today. Lectio divina means "sacred reading" and has four stages: lectio (reading), meditatio (discursive meditation), oratio (af fective prayer), and contemplatio (contemplation). In thelectio (reading) stage, one finds a passage and reads it deliberately. The next stage, meditatio (discursive meditation), is where one ponders the text. In the oratio (effective prayer) stage, one talks to God about the reading, asking Him to reveal the truth. In the final, contemplatio (contemplation) stage, one simply rests in the Lord's presence.

One important thing the Bible tells us to do is to think about God's Word. Our thoughts determine our behaviour and so what we think about is very important. That is why God wants us to think about His Word or meditate on it.

Jim Downing in Meditation (NavPress) says God considers meditation a "vital exercise of the minds of His children."

Rick Warren, in The Purpose Driven Life (Zondervan), describes meditation this way: "Meditation is focused thinking. It takes serious effort. You select a verse and reflect on it over and over in your mind...if you know how to worry; you already know how to meditate" (190). Warren goes on to say, "No other habit can do more to transform your life and make

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you more like Jesus than daily reflection on Scripture…If you look up all the time God speaks about meditation in the Bible, you will be amazed at the benefits He has promised to those who take the time to reflect on His Word throughout the day" (190).

In Satisfy Your Soul (NavPress), Dr. Bruce Demarest writes, "A quieted heart is our best preparation for all this work of God...Meditation refocuses us from ourselves and from the world so that we reflect on God's Word, His nature, His abilities, and His works...So we prayerfully ponder, muse, and 'chew' the words of Scripture....The goal is simply to permit the Holy Spirit to activate the life-giving Word of God" (133).

Christian Meditation: How do we do it?

There are three times during the day we can actively turn our minds over to God's Word in Christian Meditation. Just before we fall asleep, we can have God's Word be the last thing that occupies our mind. Upon awaking, we can have God's Word be the first thing to fill our minds to start the day. Finally, we need a specific time each day to be in God's Word so it can speak to us throughout our day.

What should we focus on in Christian meditation?

"Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything, worthy of praise, dwell on these things" (Philippians 4:8, NASB).

Source: http://www.allaboutgod.com/christianmeditation.htm

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My Daily

Confession

Say this with me every day as you start your day to create your reality.

F

ather, I thank you for another opportunity to come boldly before your throne to give thanks and praise to your holy name. I am a new creation in Christ Jesus, full of divine nature and supernatural abilities.

I am born of God, and I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God lives in me. I am redeemed from every curse by the blood of Jesus. I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. Jesus paid the price for my redemption, so I stand fast in the liberty I have received as a child of God. I am no longer bound with the yoke of slavery. I am free because he who the Son sets free is free indeed. I have abundant life. Greater is He that lives in me than he that lives in the world. I am not confused in life because the Spirit of God directs my path. I have an anointing from the Holy One and I know all things. Today is my receiving day. I expect the favour of God everywhere I go. Every land I tread upon I possess. All things are working together for my good today. I have the blessing. Lines are falling to me in pleasant places. I bind every demon that wants to harass me today. I saturate every atmosphere I am in with the presence of God. This is the day that the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it.

I am the redeemed of the Lord whatever I say is so, I have said it and it is so Now in Jesus Name.

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