Magazine 3 victorious woman women of excellence 2016

Victorious Woman Pastor

Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.,

Encourages You to Release the Past!

Women of Excellence Mark Webb gives

8 SureďŹ re Ways to Screw up a Relationship

DIY Learning to Lean and Depend on

Hair Styles

Jesus

2016 Issue 3 FREE ISSUE

Word Of Oasis Church A er Hearing This Life Changing Word Of Faith, We Promise Your Life Will Never Be The Same.

International

Bishop Henry R. Williams, D.D. & Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. Loving People Into The Kingdom Through The "Power of One!" Victorious Woman, Women of Excellence is published annually by Word of Oasis Ministries International, Inc., a non-proďŹ t corporation, 4034 Inner Perimeter Rd., Valdosta, GA 31602. Phone: 229-244-9625 or 1-866-479-2909, Fax: 229-293-9370. Š2016 Word of Oasis Ministries, all rights reserved. May not be reproduced in whole or part without wri en permission from the Publisher. Victorious Woman, Women of Excellence Magazine has no subscription price and is supported through contributions worldwide. All advertisements are assumed to be accurate.

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Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

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Contents 4

Releasing the Past By: Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

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8 Surefire Ways to Screw up a Relationship By: Mark Webb

16

Nuggets of Wisdom By: Drs. Bishop Henry R. and Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams

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Find Some Me Time! We Have a Massage Designed Just For You! By: Anthony Company Spa & Salons

22

A Heart to Heart with Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. By: VWWOE

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DIY Hairstyle: Wand Curl Loose Wave Pa ern By: Rashonda L. Williams

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Bishop and Pastor Gwen Share One of Their Favorite Dishes, Seafood Stew

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DIY Hairstyle: 3 Strand "Twistout" By: Rashonda L. Williams

30

Learning to Lean and Depend on Jesus By: Centra Williams

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Daughters of Destiny Purity Ceremony By: Rashonda L. Williams

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Coming Out of a Fiery Furnace Without the Smell of Smoke!!!

By: Ann Hughes

2016 Issue 3

Victorious Woman

Women of Excellence

Pastor

Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.,

Encourages You

Mark Webb gives

8 Surefire

to Release the Past!

Ways to Screw up a Relationship

DIY Learning to Lean and Depend on

Hair Styles

Jesus

2016 Issue 3 FREE ISSUE

On The Cover Photography by Leah Pheifer Photography

Victorious Woman, Women of Excellence Magazine, 2016 Issue 3 Publisher Editorial Team

Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

Contributing Photographer

Rashonda Williams

Creative Designer

Leah Pheifer Photography

Shakira Williams

Lisa Hamilton

ALR Photography

Cynthia Jordan

Advertising Team

Ricky Marlin Photography

Lisa Hamilton Lisa Hamilton

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Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

3

Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

4 Victorious VictoriousWoman Woman 2016 2016Issue Issue3 3

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Releasing

L

the

adies, as we are embracing entering into yet another new year (2017), to God be all the glory, honor, and praise!!! My amazing husband Bishop Henry R. Williams always seeks and hears from the Lord every year concerning our ministries’ theme. We declared at Word of Oasis, that 2016 is our year for “Supernatural Grace to Recover All!" However, in order for us as women to recover everything that the Lord has in store for us, we must be willing to release the past hurts, pain, disappointments, and bad relationships so that we can move forward with a fresh new start.

Past

one thing I do, forge ing those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus!”

Ladies, I believe with all my heart that God is going to do some mighty things in and through you. Failure is not an option with God, He wants us to be successful in every area of our lives through Him. The apostle Paul tells us in II Corinthians 2:14; “Thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ.”

We are more than conquerors; no ma er what you are going through or adversity you may be experiencing.

The opposition may be great. Remember you are only going through it and will come out with the “Victory”, God always leads us to triumph.

Trust Him, depend on Him! I John 4:4 declares, “You are of God; He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

"Failure is not

I would like to share some very upli ing and encouraging scriptures with you. Isaiah 43:18-19 reads, “Remember ye not the former things,” I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth, shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” Ladies, let us focus in on these words, “Remember ye not the former things…”

an option with God, He wants us to be successful in every area of our lives through

Him."

Are there things that happened to you that you really need to release and put behind you? Bishop and I can relate to maybe a few unexpected circumstances that totally altered our lifestyle. We've dealt with health challenges, hurting and disappointing family and ministry crisis. Through it all we choose to release, walk in love and forgiveness, and stand on the Word of God because our circumstances will not change the Word, but the Word will change our circumstances.

You may ask, “What are you saying Pastor Gwen?”

I am glad you asked! Let’s go back to the Word; God is telling us not to remember and focus on the bad or negative things that happened in our life. Forget about these things that happened in the past. Apostle Paul confirmed these words in Philippians 3:13-14 which reads, “I count not myself to have apprehended; but this

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It is my prayer that your heart has been encouraged and upli ed to face whatever tests that may come your way. Dear Hearts, building our relationship with the Lord through prayer and daily filling our heart with the Word of God is essential into releasing the past. As a believer we must be found faithful to the House of God, and be a good steward over our finances. When we do, then our future will be full of joy, prosperity, wholeness, health, and favor which are just a few of all the 30,000 plus of His promises. Instead of us chasing a er the blessings of God, the blessings will run us down and overtake us. Sisters, that’s “Good News” I am sharing with you from my own personal experience. These principles have changed my life forever!

Because of Him, Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

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SureďŹ re

8

Ways To

Screw Up A Relationship

"No great thing is created suddenly" ~Epictetus, philosopher

So much power exists in the li le things. It is the li le things that can make a good relationship, great.

Conversely, the li le things can destroy a relationship. Here are eight common behaviors that may not be deal breakers but these behaviors will ruin your chances of ever having happiness in your relationship.

1)

Always trying to get in the last word. If this is you, then be

these dates will be lethal. I say forge ing, but it may be more delib-

prepared for a relationship in which your partner will eventually stop

erate. A deliberate refusal to honor your partner's birthday, your

talking to you. It is be er to be a good listener than to be a domi-

wedding anniversary, or some other special event is mean and cruel.

nating talker. Don't be too competitive. Don't always try to win a

You and I both know it is typically the guys who are guilty of this.

discussion or create a debate. Couples get too caught up in games of

I plead with my brothers to ďŹ x this problem before it becomes an

power. This is a situation in which you cannot truly win. As a thera-

emergency. Once a woman has had enough of this, she will emotion-

pist, I have come to believe that the person who gets the last word in

ally divorce you.

typically loses. They may win the ba le but they lose their partner's

3) Being Too Proud. Hardheadedness can either be a blessing or a curse.

love and respect.

It is good to be determined but it is bad to be stubborn. If you are wrong;

2)

admit it. If you have said or done something hurtful; apologize. You can do

Forge ing Holidays and Anniversaries. Forge ing once

can be hurtful. Forge ing o en is disheartening. Never recognizing

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Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

wonders for your relationship if you will simply learn to say "I'm sorry." or

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"I was wrong." I also encourage you to go back and acknowledge any past

you are saving could be costing you a fortune. A cheapo cuts too many cor-

errors. It takes a big person to be able to do this but you will experience more

ners and treats their partner as second class citizens. Your partner shouldn't

love in your life if you do.

have to beg for the things they want and need (within reason).

4) Never acknowledging your partner's efforts. Acknowledge

8) Frequent temper tantrums. Outbursts of stress and anger can be

housework, going to work, bringing home a paycheck, and being actively in-

very taxing on a relationship. Learn how to manage your stress versus taking

volved in the raising of the children. This list can be long but don't take your

it out on your partner. Don't threaten divorce; don't take off your wedding

partner for granted. Relationships are more about choices than obligations

ring, and stop turning over your wedding day photo just because you're in

regardless of how it may feel. Make positive choices. Learn to say thank you

a bad mood. You have no right to impose your bad mood on someone else;

and say it o en.

especially the person you say you love.

5) Making jokes at your partner's expense. It's okay to be funny

"Your future depends on many things, but mostly on you." ~Brian Tracy

and I encourage playfulness. Just don't allow yourself to cross the line by pu ing your partner down or hurting their feelings. Don't point out your

Imagine a couple is hiking in the woods and they become lost.

partner's shortcomings or twist things about them in an effort to get a laugh.

They start arguing about whose fault it is. "If you had remembered

Referring to your partner as the "old ball and chain" really isn't that funny.

the compass…" or " If you had taken that le turn I pointed out…"

Even if your partner is truly too slow or a hyper force of nature, do you have

Meanwhile, it's ge ing later, colder, and you're both hungry. Now

to single out these behaviors? Instead of putdowns, use words that will li

is the time that one or both of you should drop the debate and take

your partner up.

your partner by the hand and say, "It doesn't ma er whose fault it is,

6) Being mean. Hatefulness will never build love and respect in your

let's just get out of here."

relationship. I don't care if you are angry, tired, or had a bad day. There

Never underestimate your ability to improve a relationship. One

is no excuse for this. When you squeeze an orange, orange juice comes

person can change the course of a relationship. If you are guilty of

out. When life squeezes you, what comes out is a reflection of what's on

any of these negative behaviors, resolve to change your ways. Strive

the inside of you. Meanness is a negative response that is usually rooted in

to be a partner that your partner will respect and admire.

negative past experiences that have never been dealt with. In other words,

Best of Wishes, Mark Webb

get help. Read books, go to therapy, talk with your pastor. Whatever it may Mark Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private prac-

take to heal the wounds of your past.

tice at South Georgia Psychiatric and Counseling Center in Valdosta. He is the author of "How To Be A Great Partner." Read more of his articles at

7) Being a Cheapo. I'm not talking about the wisdom of good financial

www.TheRelationshipSpecialist.com

decision making. I'm talking about stinginess and selfishness. That dollar

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2016 Issue 3

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Phone: 229-249-5333 306 North Pa erson St. Valdosta, GA 31601 www.306north.com Lunch: Monday-Friday Dinner: Monday-Saturday

Word of Oasis Victorious Woman Conference

November 21-22, 2015

"The Essence of Elegance" The Essence of Elegance Conference was amazing. As Pastor Gwen said in her own words,

"Wow!" We serve a Faithful, Awesome, God

Jesus Showed up in an Amazing, Powerful,

Anointed, Supernatural Way!!! I am so "grateful" for how He used my biological and spiritual daughters, and how they all worked together with an "Excellent" spirit to make our "2015" Victorious Woman Conference, Breakfast, Concert, and Sunday's Service a Success. I also appreciate all the panelist ge ing out of their comfort zone and keeping it real, "That's What True Ministry" is all about, we are to be "Healed Healers" To God Be All The Glory, Honor & Praise!!!"

Because of Him,

Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. 12

Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

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Mother and Daughters Breakfast Talk Show, Saturday Night Concert, and Sunday Morning Service Photos Courtesy of ALR Photography

Saturday, November 21, 2015 Concert featuring Tasha-Page Lockhart & Co-Pastor Lisa Page Brooks, Woo Praise Team, Soloist Sierra Berry & Heavenly

Sunday Morning Service with Guest Speaker, Co-Pastor Phyllis Williams

Bishop and Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. THERE CAN NEVER BE TOO MANY WORDS OF WISDOM SOWN INTO YOUR LIFE! HERE ARE A FEW MORE NUGGETS FOR YOU TO PONDER ON!

•

If You Are Not Asking God What You Should Be Doing In Your Life, Then Who Is The Controlling Factor? Who's Aiding You In The Decision In Your Life That Could Affect The Rest Of Your Life?

Bishop

•If You Choose Not To Forgive, Don't You Ever Sin Again!

•

Pastor Gwen If You Don't Cease Your Opportunity, You Are Only Hurting Yourself!

Bishop

•You Can't Perform A Miracle, But You Can Start One With A Seed!

•

Pastor Gwen The Safest Place In The Whole Wide World, Is Being In The Perfect Will Of God! Bishop

•The Lord Doesn't Expect You To Give More Than You Have, Only To Be Generous With What He Has Entrusted To You!

Pastor Gwen 16 Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

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A Heart to Heart with Pastor Proverbs 14:1 A wise woman builds up her home a foolish one tears it down with her own hands.

In This Heart to Heart, Pastor Gwen Gives Women Priceless Information About Marriage.

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Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

M

any Women were never taught how to be a wife a er God's own heart. Being married at 18, I admit was scary back then. The enemy made me feel that I was too young to be married, and that I was ruining my life by doing so at such a young age. Thankfully, God placed a wonderful, authentic, genuine, kind, beautiful (inside and out), awesome, Spiritual Mother, Mentor, Pastor, and Woman of God in my life to help

guide me into understanding what marriage is all about. A er 16 years of marriage, I am so glad I didn't allow the enemy to have the upper hand. Although, I am still growing, Pastor Gwen constantly sows Words of Wisdom into our lives to help us become the wife God purposed us to be. God recently laid Proverbs 14:1 on my heart. As soon as I read this scripture, I knew I wanted to ask

Pastor Gwen if she would elaborate on the meaning of this scripture. Pastor Gwen has been married to Bishop Henry R. Williams, D.D., for 35 years, now you know she has a lot of wisdom to share with us ladies (and as she would say, "smile")! There is always room to grow in our marriages; none of us have perfect marriages. However, Pastor Gwen is always transparent and keeps it real. I am always looking for her to continue to help me down the right path. I pray that this heart to heart with Pastor Gwen blesses you as much as it blessed me. Enjoy!

By: Lisa Hamilton

VWWOE: What makes a woman a wife?

PASTOR GWEN: A woman who has accepted “Jesus Christ” as her personal “Savior and Lord” and through her relationship with “Jesus” by studying the “Word of God." Also, ge ing “Godly” wise counsel from a successful married woman mentor figure (Pastor/Co-Pastor etc.), she will then fully understand the covenant bond of what it really means to be a wife. Proverbs 18:22 states, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor from the Lord…A woman that’s a wife will do her husband good not evil, all the days of her life.”

VWWOE: What is a wife’s overall purpose in a marriage?

PASTOR GWEN: A wife’s overall purpose in a marriage is to aid and assist her husband with the vision “God” has given him. Ma hew 19:5, 6 states, “5. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. 6. So then, they are on longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together let no man separate.” Ephesians 5:22-24 also states, “22. Wives, submit to your own husbands as to the Lord, 23. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church, and He is the Savior of the body. 24. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be subject to their husbands in everything.” Going back to the beginning of creation,

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when God took the time to sculpt the woman from the rib of the man; He specifically designed her to be adaptable and suitable to stand beside her husband as his helpmate/helper for a lifetime.

VWWOE: What makes a wise woman?

PASTOR GWEN: A wise woman builds her house according to Proverbs 14:1a. Proverbs 12:4a states, “An excellent wife is the crown of her husband. Proverbs 19:14b follows by stating, “But a prudent wife is from the Lord.” Lastly, 1 Corinthians 7:34 states, “There is a difference between a wife and a virgin.

The unmarried woman cares about the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But, she who is married cares about the things of the world how she may please her husband.”

VWWOE: What makes a foolish woman?

PASTOR GWEN: Proverbs 14:1b details the posture of a foolish woman. It states, “But the foolish woman pulls her house down with her hands.” Proverbs 12:4b states, “But she who causes shame is like ro enness in his bones.” Lastly, Proverbs 21:9 states, “Be er to dwell in a corner of the house top, than in a house shared with a contentious woman.”

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VWWOE: How does a wise woman build up her home?

PASTOR GWEN: From my personal experience although, my marriage was orchestrated by God, I did not receive marriage counseling before entering into my marriage covenant. I also did not have a mentor or spiritual mother at that time; I honestly learned a lot through trial and error. However, through my personal relationship with the Lord through reading The Word, praying, and obtaining Bible based reading material for the purpose of a wife; The Holy Spirit helped me understand that it was my place to set the atmosphere in my home. Yielding to the Holy Spirit, He as my teacher and helper transformed me completely. He convicted me concerning my a itude and words. I was shown how vital it is to have the right a itude and speak the right words as a wife and mother, which is essential to building one's home.

VWWOE: How does a foolish woman

our faults, Jesus is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Then she must ask her husband to forgive her, and if she has any children she needs to ask for their forgiveness as well. When those steps are taken she can start fresh because God’s mercies are new every morning.

VWWOE: When a foolish woman has torn her home down with her own hands, what are some signs that it may be too late for her to build it back up?

PASTOR GWEN: If her husband has exhausted all of his efforts to bring about restoration for his wife and marriage through ge ing marriage counseling etc., and the foolish woman refuses to change; there is a strong chance her husband will shut down and shut her out, which is definitely the danger zone.

who tore her home down, truly have a real and genuine personal relationship with God? If yes or no, how?

affect her children and how?

PASTOR GWEN: Yes, it does affect her children! Children can tell when there is tension, discomfort, and a weird uneasiness in the home, which causes a depressed and oppressed atmosphere. The children’s personalities will shi for the worse both within the home and out of the home. Some become very timid, fearful, and withdrawn. While others may become rude, disrespectful, and confrontational. The affects can also cause the children to be on an emotional roller coaster. prepare herself to become that wise woman one day that builds her home up?

PASTOR GWEN: First, it begins PASTOR GWEN: There is no way

PASTOR GWEN: A foolish woman does just the opposite. She has a bad a itude and disposition. Having a negative and pessimistic posture precedes her. She’s very moody, lazy, rebu als against being submissive, and is carnal spiritually. Her prayer life is non-existent and she doesn’t study the Word of God. A foolish woman is also not considerate of her husband or children’s feelings. Having the above posture as a foolish woman is why the Word shares, how the husband would rather be on the roof in the corner than with a contentious woman.

she has a genuine personal relationship with God. She’s just religious, because the washing of the water by the Word of God not only cleanses you, but it transforms your life by the renewing of your mind. You then will be able to prove that which is good, perfect, and acceptable unto the Will of God. When you submit to the Holy Spirit you become a new creature in Christ Jesus. Your old way of living, being, and thinking should have passed away and behold all things should have become new.

VWWOE: Does the foolish woman’s actions affect her husband and how?

VWWOE: A woman who has torn her home down, how does she build it back up?

PASTOR GWEN: First, she has to humble herself and admit her faults.

For the Word of God shares how a broken spirit and a contrite heart He will not despise. When we confess

Victorious Woman

VWWOE: As well, does her actions

VWWOE: How can a single woman VWWOE: Could the foolish woman

tear hers down?

24

not to be around his own wife, a foolish woman, and he will be going through the mundane motions of living with her.

PASTOR GWEN: Yes, it definitely does! The foolish woman’s actions can turn her once vibrant, outgoing, jolly, and optimistic husband into the complete opposite. He will then become withdrawn and depressed, which can transition into him becoming frustrated and angry. Moreover, he will then prefer

2016 Issue 3

with her having a firm foundation with her relationship with Christ Jesus and studying the Word of God specifically on what it means to be a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:10-31. It is imperative that she remains in the posture of being transparent with herself and with God. She then needs to wholly love herself completely, minor flaws and all, accepting who God has created her to be, for she is His masterpiece. In her singleness, she needs to keep a positive perspective of where she is in her life through the aid and assistance of the Holy Spirit. Lastly, it would be advantageous for a single woman to obtain a mentor, be it a spiritual mother or one whose seasoned in her marriage, who would not mind giving sound Godly advice and guidance.

VWWOE: What is something encouraging and wise that you would like to leave with the foolish woman?

PASTOR GWEN: When you seek ye

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first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (which means being in right standing with God) all other things will fall into place in your life. In other words, do not give place to the devil.

He hates unity, strength, and peace in marriages. That is why he tries to work on the woman mentally and emotionally which affects her overall posture and a itude (because he knows the position God gave her in the home, to aid and assist her husband). For his purpose is to kill, steal and destroy, but Jesus came that we may have life in abundance, to the full, until it overflows. You must guard your heart for out of it flows the

issues of life. Guard the company you keep, for bad company corrupts good manners.

VWWOE: What is something encouraging and wise you like to leave with the wise woman?

PASTOR GWEN: Continue to be that victorious woman that lets her light so shine (according to Matthew 5:16) in your home, marriage, and relationship with your children. Proverbs 31:28-31 states, “28. Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: 29. Many daughters have

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done well, But you excel them all. 30.

Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. 31. Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates.” When we obey God’s Word, when it comes down to being that godly wife/woman, and apply the principles we will have a blessed, happy, fulfilled, blissful, successful, and prosperous marriage and family for life.

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2016 Issue 3

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DIY HAIR “How to Achieve a Successful Wand Curl Loose Wave Pattern” Illustrative Model: Shakira R. Williams

Before

Many women who have nat ral hair (non-chemically t eated hair), such as our illust ative model, who are low maintenance sometimes want to take a break om doing the usual t ist/ braid outs, bant knot outs, and roller sets. The process of doing various st les as such can be time consuming, as well as, st ating if the dr ing time cannot be devoted to accomplish the desired st le.

However, there is a way to achieve many st les without pu ing in much time.

By: Rashonda L. Williams

The illust ative model’s hair has been eshly shampooed, conditioned, deep-conditioned, blow dried and flat ironed on low heat se ing. Within that process her hair was previously cut bluntly to give her hair a different overall look

Step 1: Now let’s begin st ling the hair. First, section the hair ver ically om the back nape of the neck. Second, utilize one or t o hair clips to move the non-sectioned hair away om the par ed area.

Step 2: Aſter the hair has been sectioned, take desired amount of hair that will be curled.

Keep in mind, if the hair is sectioned largely the wave/curl pa er will be looser and the hold may not be retained.

The necessar hair utensils needed are: three hair clips, a wide tooth comb with pick a achment, and a temperat re se ing curling wand. Application of heat protection spray or ser m is optional.

Step Three: To achieve this desired wave pa er , the curling wand was held ver ically; while the hair was wrapped along the curling wand beginning om larger end toward the smaller end.

Continue step one, t o, and three throughout the entire head. Note: Wrapping the hair along the curling wand horizontally, more of a t aditional spiral curl will be achieved.

A er

Through consecutively sectioning and curl wanding the hair this desired look of the loose deep wave was achieved. A nat ral par was given in this st le; however, a more distinctive par can be placed within the hair to achieve the desired look.

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Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

Visit www.wordofoasis.org

The Virtuous Women of Excellence invites you out to our Quarterly Meetings held on a 3rd Sunday.

Come out enjoy a time of transparency and fellowship!

Please contact Word of Oasis Church Office at 229-244-9625 for further information on our meeting dates!

Victorious Woman Women of Excellence

Hair Care

&

Mark Webb On Being Exceptional!

Fashion Tips!

Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D., Encourages you To Embrace Your Season

BEAUTY

2015 Issue 2

FOR ASHES

FREE FRE E ISSUE

Did you miss Spring 2014 Issue or 2015 Issue 2? No worries! Spring 2014 issue is available to read Online at h p://issuu.com/victoriouswomanmagazine/docs/magazine_1_final_for_issuu_website_/0, and 2015 Issue 2 is available to read Online at h p://issuu.com/victoriouswomanmagazine/docs/vwwoemagazine2issuuwebsite2015

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Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

27

Directions: Heat sausage and ¼ cup water in 12 inch skillet to boiling. Cover and simmer 5 minutes. Uncover and continue cooking and turning until water evaporates and sausage is brown. Remove and cut each sausage in half; spoon off all but 2 tablespoons drippings from skillet. Add wine, 1 cup water, potatoes, carrots, celery, bay leaf, crushed red pepper and garlic. Heat to

Seafood Stew

F

boiling; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Devein shrimp (or purchase

What You Will Need:

already devein), leaving shell on if you

1 pound hot Italian sausage

like. Rinse shrimp with running cold

1 ¼ cup water

water. Scrub clams with stiff brush

½ cup dry white wine (or cooking wine)

under running cold water to remove

1 pound small new potatoes, cut in half

any sand.

2 medium carrots, cut into 1 ½ - inch

Add shrimp, clams and onions to

pieces

stew. Bring to boil over high heat;

2 celery stalks, cut into 1 ½ inch pieces

reduce heat to medium low. Cover and

2 bay leaves

cook 10 to 15 minutes longer or until

1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper

shrimp turn pink and clams open,

1 large clove garlic, minced

stirring occasionally. Discard bay leaf

1 pound medium or large shrimp

and any unopened clams. Serve in

1 dozen small cherrystone clams

bowls. Garnish with parsley in each

8 to 10 pearl onions

individual bowl for presentation.

Chopped parsley

Yields 6 servings

rom Time To Time during service, Bishop and Pastor Gwen mention their special

dishes. I don't know about you, but when they talk about food, are you in your seat like me, saying to yourself that sounds so good? Wouldn't you love for them to share one of their favorite dishes? Well, you don't have to wait any longer they have shared this mouthwatering dish for us to Enjoy!

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Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

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DIY Hair Three Strand "Twist-Out" Many mothers in today’s societ find it difficult to give their daughters an age appropriate and low maintenance hair st le that’s not time consuming. The three st and t ist out is considered one of the ultimate go-to hairst les for young girls. This st le is simple, easy, and age appropriate that lasts for 3 to 5 days if cared for properly.

By: Rashonda L. Williams

Before

After

Illust ative Model: Alyssia N. Hamilton

Products Needed: Shampoo & Conditioner, Foam Wrap Lotion, St ling Gel, Spray Water Bo le, Sealant Ser m, Edge Cont ol, Per Rod Rollers

The model’s hair has been eshly shampooed and conditioned to begin the st ling process. A hand towel has been placed around her shoulders to keep the excess water om drenching the model’s shir . Now let’s begin

Step 1: Section hair into one medium sized box beginning with the back of the hair. Nex , evenly separate the sectioned hair into three st ands. Place three fingers, preferably the pointer, middle, and ring finger, in-bet een the three st ands. Both hands must be utilized to get a t isting affect going, however, there must be one hand used at a time. Allow your hand to t ist the three st ands of hair clockwise. This will cause the st and of hair f r hest to the leſt to cross over the middle st and, and the last st and to the right will then become the st and to the leſt. Continue this process consecutively down the hair until majorit is in a three st and t ist. When hair has become shor er, simply divide hair into t o st ands and t ist down completely.

Step 2: Continue Step 1 throughout the whole head if desired. The chosen st le above has a par ial three st and t ist accompanied by flat t ist towards the ont of the head. To seal the ends and give more life to the three st and t ist st le, add desired amount of per rods to the end of each t ist. Lastly, allow hair to air dr or place hair under a hooded dr er until the hair is completely dr .

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The end results should be a f ll flow of curls.

Note: To give more f ll volume to the hair, feel ee to separate the curls and use a hair comb accompanied with a pick a achment to heighten the hair. Be caref l not to comb through curls or hair may become izzy.

Enjoy!

Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

29

Learning To Lean and

Depend On

Jesus

This is a statement I no longer take for granted, prophetic as it may sound, I truly live it throughout my life every day.

What really became an eye opener for me was when I lost my job of nine years as manager in the department of exam and testing back in August 2011. It was my responsibility to oversee the process of shipping proctored final exams to over 20,000 students each semester stateside and overseas who were participating in our undergraduate distance education program. I thought to myself I had nothing to worry about, because in my mind I was doing all the right things.

I was in school working towards a Management Studies Degree, a ending a church I loved, in Bible Study weekly, active in the Willing Workers Ministry, singing in the choir, and the main provider for my family. Then life had a way of tripping me up.

While on vacation in April 2011, I received a FedEx package notifying me that in August of 2011 the university would be migrating to a non-proctored final exam environment, and the entire department would be laid off. No one saw this coming. This was a devastating blow to everyone in our department from the Executive Director down to our full-time contingent workers. The events that took place from the time I received that dreaded package until my final day had me filled with so many emotions. The one thing that was constant during that time was I never lost faith that God was with me, and that He would not leave me without provisions. I had no idea how I would make it or what was coming next, but I knew God was not finished with me.

I received severance pay until the end of the year, and then I had to apply for unemployment (something I had never experienced during my entire twenty plus years of

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working). I faithfully prayed and as each week passed I hadn’t receive a job. Six months later, one a ernoon, I received a called from the First Lady at church asking if I was still unemployed, and I replied "yes." She informed me that she had been in contact with a lady in need of someone to care for her two special needs daughters. I was thankful God provided this blessing, I no longer had to commute 70 miles to work, it would only be a 20 minute drive. I thought to myself this must be a blessing from God. This lady had two special needs children, a 10 year old autistic child, and a 16 year old mentally challenged child who needed someone reliable and loving to care for them. The mother explained to me that the younger one was a loner and had limited interaction with people however, I knew I would connect with her.

I assisted with bathing, toileting, cleaning, and cooking.

I grew to love both girls like they were my own. The mother was so pleased with the care that I gave them, a er only a few months she asked me to adopt her girls if anything happened to her. I smiled and told her I would have to discuss it with my husband and if he agreed I would gladly take them on as my own. All was well once again in my life, I had a job I loved and the love I received from the kids just filled my heart with such joy.

I thought back to the statement I made to my former co-workers, “I knew God was not finished with me”. Just when I thought it couldn’t get be er than this, life tripped me up again. A er a year of faithful service in this family, satan allowed jealousy to rear its ugly head. The woman who trusted me completely with her children grew jealous

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of the relationship that was developing. A few months earlier, I noticed the mother’s behavior was changing towards me but I didn’t know why. Then finally one day when I was alone with the children’s grandmother, (she was in her late seventies and blind) she told me that she had never felt such a loving relationship with any other assistant and her grandkids before. This gave me such a special feeling inside.

Then she continued to say that the mother was jealous, but in time she would come to appreciate what I had brought to this family. She could’ve never been so wrong.

The atmosphere worsened and became very strained.

Everyday there was an issue, and it weighed so heavy on my spirit. However, I continued to pray and ask God to give me the strength. I became so stressed, my blood pressure became difficult to manage. I went home crying so many evenings, wanting to quit, but afraid because God had not told me to leave. Although my life there became so miserable the one thing I didn’t want was not to be pleasing in God’s eyes.

Praying constantly every day, I asked the Lord to help me to hold out. One day when I was reading the bible I turned from where I was reading and flipped over to (Philippians 2:14-16) “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the work of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.”

That day I knew it was nothing but the Holy Spirit leading me to read that scripture to keep me strong because I was losing hope. I was torn between wanting to leave because of the unfair treatment, but my heart made me stay for the girls’ sake. I think the Lord wanted me there for a season, to bring in love and His Word within that family household.

The li le girl who once sat in her room alone was thriving and interacting. She allowed me to come into her space without resistance, which let me know we had made great strides. Despite all my efforts to remain where I felt God had placed me, the mother still allowed satan to rule her heart.

On July 8, 2013, exactly one year from the day I started, I cried and prayed on my way to work. This is something I had been doing over the last two months, and I asked God for peace that day. I also asked if my mission there was complete to give me a sign. When I got to work I went about my duties as I normally do, preparing the girls’ breakfast and ge ing them ready for a scheduled outing. Then the mother came out of her bedroom in one of her foul moods.

She asked me some questions about some of the routine tasks, then out of nowhere just started ranting and raving over things that had nothing to do with the daily duties.

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When I began to respond to her inquiry she started screaming at me in a tone that was not of Christ like behavior. I asked if she could refrain from screaming, and at that moment she told me to go home. Shocked and completely taken back by her actions, I gave her back the keys to the house and responded she didn’t have to worry about me returning. As I was leaving the house I threw my hands up to God and thanked Him for releasing me (her mood and the actions that followed were apparently God’s sign). Immediately a er thanking God, it felt as if a heavy weight had been li ed off my shoulders. When I saw my daughter later and told her what happened, she said she could see a glow on my face that had not been there for a long time. God is good!!!! The next day I was once again faced with being unemployed, and today I am still among the unemployed.

However, leaning and depending on Jesus, I have since received a mortgage modification which made my mortgage affordable for just the one income we have. This was approved a er the mortgage company told me we didn’t qualify for a modification because of my lack of income.

Was God in the midst of that decision making or what? All the bills are being paid, I don’t understand how when what we owe monthly is greater than what we have coming in, God is a provider. While these things were taking place in my life the Holy Spirit told me to fast and pray during lent.

I didn’t know why the Lord instructed me to do this nor, what the Lord was preparing me for, but I was obedient.

The results of fasting and praying was that He prepared me to be there to counsel my daughter during troubling times in her marriage. He availed me to keep my granddaughter, so that my daughter didn’t have to worry about the safety of her child in daycare. He freed me up to counsel my son while he’s going through a divorce a er 20 years of marriage.

He availed me to minister to and counsel some of my church members, friends and family. He made me available to move my parents near me to cater to their needs. He’s changing how I interact with people in general. I’m a very shy person, but He’s tearing down those strongholds that hindered me from being bold in my walk. Finally, I now know what He would have me to do, which is why I am now in school taking classes to help me become more effective in preaching the gospel to God's people. I say all this to remind you that no ma er what life deals you as long as you lean and depend on Jesus, He will order your steps. I’m a living testimony of His goodness. Remain true to His Word and be bold in your walk.

Your loving sister in Christ, Centra Williams

Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

31

Daughters of Destiny Purity Ceremony May 15, 2016

Purity Ceremony Pictures Courtesy of ALR Photography

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Victorious Woman

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O

n Sunday, May 15, 2016, The Daughters of Destiny held their first Purity Ceremony within its founding ministry, Word of Oasis. Excitement filled the hearts of every participating girl within the sanctuary. Each girl presented themselves with style, grace, and dignity as they approached the alter accompanied by their parents.

Many onlookers were captivated of how the alter was filled with girls adorned in white, and how both youth and teens stood together in unity. Silence filled the sanctuary as each girl prepared their minds and hearts on the pure covenant they were about to make with their Heavenly Father and parents. Bright

smiles filled the alter as the wonderful speaker took to the pulpit.

As Sister Shakira R. Williams, one worthy of handling such a topic of purity approached the pulpit; she comforted each participant in her usual way, with a big smile.

and every girl. That statement alone broke barriers of professing and confessing one thing but practicing another (which overall causes one to live a double-standard outside of God’s Divine Will).

It is proven to be true that if your mind is fixed and your heart is to please The Heavenly Father, as a single individual, you can suc-

cessfully live a lifestyle of purity.

Howbeit, there must be a sacrifice of denying instant selfish- gratification, which comes through doing your part as a believer in Christ Jesus. But it doesn’t stop there, as a believer; you must rely on the one who Christ Jesus sent as the helper, The Holy Spirit to guide you through this journey. It is not The Heavenly Father’s goal/will for the single believer, in Christ Jesus, to live a boring unfulfilling lifestyle. However, He wants everyone to live life to the full

will and timing instead of our own.

As single believers, when we align our desires with the true and living God’s desires, we will then be in sync to please Him in every area of our lives (1 Peter 4:2). We can experience God’s richest blessings and desires when we are true to Him and live a life of obedience unto Him (Jeremiah 29:11).

(The Daughters of Destiny (Girls Club) is a branch outreach ministry founded by the women's ministry, of Word of Oasis Inc., Virtuous Women of Excellence. It is targeted towards reaching and ministering to all youth through teenage girls. Love, respect, and unity, towards one another, personally, and abroad, are a few of the foundational aspects that are instilled in each girl. This ministry also teaches and equips every girl on how to matriculate through life’s pressures on their level in practical ways that are biblically based.)

By: Rashonda L. Williams

Daughters of Destiny is an The Lord laid on Sister Shakira’s heart to express the topic of purity through the title of “Give Him All of You”. She expounded on her personal testimony of how she has and is currently keeping herself until marriage as a covenant to the Lord.

Through the journey of her covenant she shared the personal tools she’s practicing that are necessary to successfully maintain purity in the body, mind, heart, and spirit.

The profound statement of, “Don’t only look the part, but be the part” was eloquently emphasized to each

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outreach ministry designed for Girls K4-12th grade. Please contact Word of Oasis Church Office at 229-244-9625 for further information on ge ing your daughter involved! until it overflows type of life (3 John 2) that is according to His divine

Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

33

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Coming Out of a Fiery Furnace Without the

Smell of Smoke!!! family and I relocated to Valdosta last year due to my husband accepting a position with the City of Valdosta. When I found out about the offer I went into prayer to ensure this was the right move for our family. My husband and I discussed and agreed on the position he was offered. A er receiving the official offer, we had 30 days to relocate. We started looking for a home, and I searched for a job in Valdosta. I was very excited about the new move, because I felt we could use this time and opportunity to start over fresh.

My

My husband and I had been married for seven years, which was very unstable so I felt the move would help our marriage. I must admit I was a li le nervous about uprooting my children and granddaughter from Atlanta, especially my son because he was a junior in high school. However, when I spoke to my children about the move they seemed very excited, which made me feel be er. A er searching for weeks we found a house. One early morning while in the process of driving to Valdosta I began to pray and ask God, “Is this truly the right move for us?, Please give me a sign Lord?” A er praying I looked over and saw a police car labeled, Valdosta Police Department.

I immediately thanked God, because I felt this was my sign.

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The next day I went back to work in Atlanta, and called a meeting with my director and manager to inform them I would be resigning due to my family relocating. By the end of the day they approached me, and asked me if I would be willing to work from home. I was speechless, but quickly said yes, “I would love to work from home.”

I was very excited because I no longer had to search for a job in Valdosta. We finally were se led in Valdosta, and things were great, so I thought. A er being in Valdosta over a month, things started to rapidly change. My son realized he didn’t like it here, because of the difficult school enrollment process, which caused him to have to a end a private school. My husband became stressed and overwhelmed with his new position. Furthermore, my daughter was having difficulties finding employment, and I was si ing in the house all day.

I began missing my family and church very much. My church (World Changers) has several satellite churches, so I started visiting the closest one which was located in Tallahassee. My Pastor was teaching a series on “Grace and Spiritual Warfare.” I’ve o en heard the term, but really didn’t have a full concept of what it meant until I moved to Valdosta. A er ge ing a clear understanding

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behind the meaning of Spiritual Warfare, I quickly realized I was in one.

My husband became a workaholic, which put a strain on our marriage, and my daughter became angry because of the things she was confronted with. Throughout everything I was si ing at home all day allowing fear to kick in. Things got so bad in our house that my husband and I would barely speak to each other, my daughter and I were always at each other's throats, and I began to cry daily. Through months of turmoil, I decided to file for a divorce and move back to Atlanta. My husband and I discussed our issues, and he felt we needed counseling, so I agreed to call off the divorce and a end counseling. A er calling off the divorce, my husband came home one Friday and decided to

move out without a warning or explanation.

Once again I felt myself crying and riddled with fear. I pondered on being in this new city not knowing anyone, my husband leaving me, my daughter acting out, my son being in his last

{

Word of God, but things appeared to get worse. My husband and I were in a terrible divorce ba le, I was having issues with my children, had three deaths in my family in a ma er of two weeks, and I was now financially responsible for everything and everybody. Being at a loss of words I didn’t even realize I was slipping into depression. I cried out to God because I couldn’t understand why I was here, let alone how I got to this point in my life. I truly felt that the enemy was trying to kill me. I would sit in the house for days at a time, and not even look outside. The enemy really had me running scared, until one morning I opened up my laptop and started listening to a sermon on Spiritual Warfare.

While listening God spoke to me and said (2 Timothy 1:7) “I didn’t give you the spirit of fear, but of Power, love and a sound mind.” “You are in a spiritual warfare my child and I have equipped you with everything you will need to get through, the ba le is already WON! I need you to stand up and take authority over these demons in your home, in your children, and in your husband because you”, (Ephesians 6:12) wrestle not against flesh and blood, but

“Day and night I meditated on the Word of God, and each day I gained strength. Now I am at a place of peace regardless of what it looks, sounds, or feels like. GOD truly brought me through my fiery furnace without the smell of smoke!!!”

year of private school, and caring for my granddaughter. My world began to fall apart right before my eyes, and for the first time in my life I felt I lost all control. I woke up one Sunday morning crying hysterically; feeling like I had lost everything. Pulling myself out of bed, I decided to get ready for church. Being in such despair and condemnation I couldn’t even drive myself to church. I remember stopping at the intersection of Bemiss and Inner Perimeter Road, When the Holy Spirit said, “Look Up!” When I did I saw a billboard for Word of Oasis Church. I entered the address in my GPS, and around 8:30am I arrived at the church parking lot. It was empty, so I just sat in my car crying and praying. I reached out to my best friend and asked her if she would pray with me.

She did and around 9:45a.m., I saw a car enter the church parking lot. As the car pulled up beside me I opened my door and asked the gentleman what time the doors of the church opened, because I needed to speak with someone. A er telling me, he offered me to sit in the sanctuary. Shortly a er one of the ministers prayed with me, I stayed for service. Hearing the Word from Bishop Williams that day brought me a since of hope. I started a ending WOO (Word of Oasis) on a regular basis, and each time the Lord would send a message to me through Bishop’s sermons. I continued to go to church, and meditate on the

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}

against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, and against spiritual wickedness in high places. "When I learned the power and authority I possessed over the devil my life started to turn around. I took a stand against those demons, and started fighting with the Word of God (Ephesians 6:10-13, Luke 10:19). I refuse to live in fear no ma er what it looks like. I know who I serve (I John 4:4, KJV), “Ye are of God, li le children, and have overcome them; because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world”. Day and night I meditated on the Word of God, and each day I gained strength. The divorce was finalized, my daughter and I mended our differences, and my son graduated high school and joined the Air Force. As for me, I am loving and enjoying life to the fullest. Now I am at a place of peace regardless of what it looks, sounds, or feels like. GOD truly brought me through my fiery furnace without the smell of smoke!!!

I would like to personally thank Bishop and Pastor Gwen for the opportunity to share my testimony.

Ann Hughes

Victorious Woman

2016 Issue 3

37

Hours of Operation Tues-Thurs: 9 AM- 6 PM Fri: 8 AM -7 PM Sat: 8 AM- 4 PM Sunday & Monday: Closed

Wayne Butler, Owner 1310-A E. Hill Ave Valdosta, GA 31601

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