Vwwoemagazine2issuuwebsite2015

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

Word Of Oasis A Place After Hearing The Word of God, Your Life Will Never, Never, Never Be The Same!

Victorious Woman, Women of Excellence is published Semi-Annually by Word of Oasis Ministries International, Inc., a non-profit corporation, 4034 Inner Perimeter Rd., Valdosta, GA 31602. Phone: 229-244-9625 or 1-866-479-2909, Fax: 229-2939370. Š2015 Word of Oasis Ministries, all rights reserved. May not be reproduced in whole or part without written 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.

Bishop Henry R. Williams, D.D., & Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. Teaching & Preaching God’s Word Through The Power of One!

Victorious Woman, Women of Excellence Magazine, 2015 Issue 2 Publisher

Creative Designer

Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

Lisa Hamilton

Hair Care

Editorial Team

Contributing Photographer

Fashion Tips!

Cynthia Jordan

Kelley Whitton Photography

Rashonda Williams

Advertising Team

Shakira Williams

Lisa Hamilton

Victorious Woman Women of Excellence

&

Mark Webb On Being Exceptional!

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

BEAUTY

2015 Issue 2

FOR ASHES

FREE FRE E ISSUE

2 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

Lisa Hamilton On The Cover Photography by Kelley Whitton Photography Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D., poses with her daughters Shakira (left) and Rashonda Williams (Right)

Visit www.wordofoasis.org

Contents 2015 Issue 2 16 Let's Talk Fashion

"Just A Closet Away" By: Rashonda & Shakira Williams

24 28 4

Embrace Your Season By: Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

10 BE EXCEPTIONAL!

Strategies For Overcoming Adversity and Defeat By: Mark Webb

14

40 Successful Keys to Blooming Where You Are Planted By: Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

Visit www.wordofoasis.org

30

Beauty For Ashes By: Carolyn Adams-Hawkins

Paging Dr. Yahweh By: Dana Simpson, PA

Hair Care Tips on How To Care For Color Treated Hair By: Stylist Chelsea Williams

33 From Brokenness to

God's Grace By: Shannon Wisenbaker

Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

3

Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

Embrace

"God has begun a good work in you that guarantees your victory and success.

You must embrace your season!"

Your Season

L

adies, every activity has its proper

(my amazing husband) Bishop Henry R. Williams

time as ordained by God. Jere-

that 2015 would be our year of "Supernatural

miah 1:12 says, that God watches

Release, Restoration, and Jubilee", according to

over His Word to perform it.

When we agree with exactly what the Word of

Leviticus 25:10.

For some of us, there have been exciting new

God says, He is obligated to watch over His Word

territories to explore; while others have seen

to perform it. The body of Christ at Word of Oa-

God's blessings manifested in great measures.

sis Inc., received a powerful Word from The Lord,

Still, you may be waiting for a change, something

through our very own Senior Pastor/ Founder

new and fresh to take place in your life, that will

4 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

Visit www.wordofoasis.org

assure you this is my year of "Supernatural Release, Restoration, and Jubilee", and God's blessings are on the way. If that’s you my dear sister, let me encourage you not to give up! God has begun a good work in you that guarantees your victory and success. You must embrace your season! Philippians 1:6 declares that, He will perfect it or “carry it on to completion” (New Living Translation).

According to the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1 the Bible reads; “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” There is a time of preparation! You may be in your preparation season right now, or it may be over and you are coming out of it. Just know that your future is already set by God! Jeremiah 29:11 says: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Ladies, it is very important for you to recognize what season you are in. Seasons create opportunities to excel. They create the opportunity for you to reach your goals and accomplish what God has called you to do on this earth. For example, my vision for our “Victorious Woman” Magazine started out as a dream. Out of my dream, a newsletter was developed. From the newsletter, we are now able to enjoy the second edition of our “Victorious Woman” Magazine. To God be all the Glory, Honor, and Praise! Remember, we must start where we are, use what we have, and do what we can!

To all of you beautiful sisters, embrace this new season in your life. It may be a Winter, Summer, Spring, or Fall; however, do not resist it! Things may seem a little unusual or out of the ordinary; well they are, because seasons change. However, God is still in control! As you embrace your season, God’s purpose for your life will be fulfilled and your “Supernatural Release, Restoration & Jubilee” of blessings are on the way! Just "Praise the Lord" & receive it by faith!!!

Because of Him, Pastor Gwen Visit www.wordofoasis.org

Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

5

Bishop Henry R. Williams, D.D., & Co-Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

WE PRAY YOU ENJOYED THE NUGGETS WE SHARED WITH YOU IN THE SPRING 2014 MAGAZINE. HERE ARE A FEW MORE FROM Bishop Henry R. Williams, D.D., & Co-Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D., that will as well be a blessing!

"The Closer you get to God, the clearer your life becomes."

B. H. R. W. "God Loves Us Too Much For Us To Remain The Same; He Loves Change."

P. G. L. W. "Live your life on purpose, and don't allow anyone or anything to distract you from that."

B. H. R. W. "As Jesus Is So Am I." P. G. L. W. "Success is measured by you knowing without a shadow of doubt that you are in the perfect will of God concerning you."

B. H. R. W. "God will not hold us accountable for the way others treat us, but He will hold us accountable for the way we treat others."

P. G. L. W. Visit www.wordofoasis.org

Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

7

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Robin Williams, Owner

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We are a small office that strives to deliver excellent personal care to help you with your skin related health problems.

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Be Exceptional!

Strategies For Overcoming Adversity and Defeat By: Mark Webb “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in getting up every time we do.�

~ Confucius

A

ngela’s husband, Matt, told her over the phone that he wanted a divorce. She knew they had problems, but this came out of the blue. She was devastated to say the least. All of her tears and pleas were ignored. It was as if Matt had amnesia. He no longer seemed to care anything for her and showed little interest in their two sons.

Angela’s friends and family quickly mobilized around her with tons of advice, all of which was negative and vengeful.

She refused to have any part of it. Even though she was angry, hurt, and scared; she chose to take higher ground. She said, “Most people get mean and hateful in times like these. I want to face this in such a way that people see me conducting myself in the most positive manner. I want to be the exception!” The turning point in a person’s life can usually be marked by some type of loss or failure. Everyone who is successful has faced some form of adversity and defeat.

Here are the strategies that will ensure that you overcome the hard times of life and transform them into personal victories: 1) Defeat Reveals Your Faults. Initially Angela mentally beat herself up. All she could see was how awful she was. “I’m too anxious.”

“I obsess too much.” But as time went on she did realize that perhaps she complained too much and maybe she could have been easier to get along with. She identified that she had lacked ambition and hadn’t tried as hard as a wife as she could have. She tended to be overcautious and worrisome which often killed moments of potential intimacy. She could have better controlled her tongue and her temper.

Notice she hadn’t committed any potential deal-breakers in the marriage such as have an affair or abuse the children. Also notice that she didn’t focus on developing a list of Matt’s shortcomings. She focused on learning what she could have done better.

“Failure is only the opportunity to begin again, this time more wisely.” ~ Unknown 2) Don’t Let The Tragedy Define Who You Are. Angela chose to be seen by herself, her sons, her community and Matt as Being The Exception. Even though she was sad and depressed, broken and defeated, she sought to figure out how to become better. Nobody would have thought badly of her if she fell apart. She would have been surrounded by compassion. She realized she faced divorce either way.

She decided to push herself to find out what she is truly made of.

3) Don’t Sit Around Feeling Sorry For Yourself. The first three weeks were a blur. She didn’t sleep much. Angela lost twelve pounds.

Her eyes were practically swollen shut from non-stop crying. She realized she couldn’t stay in this state of hopelessness. A pity party wouldn’t benefit her or her children. She started getting herself together. Her grief continued but she processed it in increments.

4) If You Won’t Do It For Yourself, Do It For Others. Angela faced times when she wanted to quit; she didn’t want to get out of bed, but she knew her children were counting on her. She also set a bar for herself, “I want to be the exception!” She wanted to be an example to others.

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Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

11

5) Ask For Help. Angela mobilized the support of her parents and even though they are divorced they dropped their differences for the sake of their daughter and grandsons. She entered into weekly therapy sessions for an opportunity to express and process her thoughts and feelings. She also started going to church. She wasn’t from this community and had never ventured beyond her home. Her world had been very small but she realized if she didn’t tap into the available support, she might not make it on her own.

“In prosperity our friends know us; in adversity we know our friends.” ~ Unknown 6) Seek Sources of Inspiration. Quotes from famous men and women who have overcome adversity can be very encouraging. Movies and songs can also encourage. Avoid the songs and movies that only stir up pain. Seek songs with lyrics that promote strength and hope.

Angela found the preacher’s sermons and the scriptures of the Bible very helpful. These strengthened her resolve to be the exception!

7) Reframe The Situation – Look For The Positive. It felt like her world was falling apart. She doubted if she could make it on her own. Angela realized she needed to change her perspective. She changed her thoughts to ones that reflected something good would come from this situation. She would regularly tell me, “All things work together for the good to those who love the Lord, and to those who are called according to His purpose.” She sometimes said this with tears streaming down her cheeks as she gazed upward. Even though she was around 5’1 in height; her spirit was much taller.

“Obstacles will look large or small to you according to whether you are large or small.” ~ Orison Swett Marden 8) Be Willing To Try Again. Resolve to start again. Angela started exploring her options; a move closer to her parents, going back to college, and job opportunities. She focused her mind in the direction of where she might find success and happiness.

9) Things Will Get Better, They Always Do. Hold onto these words of hope. The sun will shine again. Your resolve to learn from your adversity and defeat is essential so you don’t repeat your history. When you review your life history you see that you have actually survived and perhaps even thrived over every tough time. Since you know that you will get through this; go ahead and strive to be the exception now.

Best of Wishes, Mark Webb Mark Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice 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 www.TheRelationshipSpecialist.com

12 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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Invitation to The Virtuous Women of Excellence Meetings

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! It is such a blessing and honor to serve beside my amazing husband Bishop Henry R. Williams, Founder/Senior Pastor of the “World’s Greatest” ministry Word of Oasis, Inc. As a wife, mother of three (Aaron, Rashonda, and Shakira), Co-Pastor, spiritual mother, and mentor figure; it is my passion as the Founder/President of the Virtuous Women of Excellence and Daughters of Destiny that women and girls of all ages would have a fellowship designed with their needs in mind! A safe haven, so to speak.

Our Virtuous Women of Excellence fellowship is life changing, through building a bond of sisterhood. I can assure you, that you will not leave the same way you came. As a woman/sister, you will be loved, encouraged, uplifted, informed, and inspired; your life will never be the same! We meet every third Sunday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m., for an awesome time of prayer, praise, and fellowship. I personally would like to invite all of our Word of Oasis partners who have never attended, and our special first time guest. I also would like the women in our community to know they are welcome. Bring a love one, neighbor, or friend!

Because of Him, Pastor Gwen

40

Successful Keys to

Blooming Where You are

Planted By: Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D. 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

You must have a call from God. First of all make sure you have a real personal relationship with Christ.

Ask God to give you His vision or goal for your life.

Be willing to do whatever is asked.

Do not lose sight of the people behind the work.

Be thankful for your protection and never take it for granted.

14 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

7.

Be willing to submit to authority.

8. Know that you are in God’s will.

9. Know that your rewards are laid up in Heaven.

10. Develop a servant’s heart.

11. Walk without offense.

12. Serve as if you were serving Jesus Himself, and do not get your eyes on the man under whom you work. On the other hand, be careful to respect the

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13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

call that is on his or her life.

Be patient.

Have a loyalty that goes beyond personal feelings.

Respect everyone.

Hear no evil, see no evil, and speak no evil.

Judge yourself.

Don't ever be too big to do the small things or too small to do the big things.

Commit to the ministry the way you ought to be committed to your marriage.

Know that you are important and needed.

Help other people fulfill their ministries.

Do everything you know to do to get where you want to be.

Do the very best wherever you are.

Stay with something until the job is done.

Never quit.

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26. Be dependable.

27. Be a good follower as well as a good leader.

28. Maintain your joy in the Lord.

29. Always remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

30. Always obey God’s specific instructions.

31. Be patient with one another.

32. Always walk in love.

33. Be willing to change direction.

34. Know that God is your source.

35. Use all the abilities that God has given you.

36. Have a healthy perspective of yourself.

37. Always keep the overall vision of the church before you.

38. Maintain a good attitude.

39. Trust in God’s grace and His anointing on your life.

40. Be big enough to be rebuked and corrected.

Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

15

Let's Talk Fashion "Just A Closet Away"

H

ave you ever wondered what you could do with that old blouse that is tucked tightly away in

your closet?

We have all had that one dress we just could not pair the right shoes with, so we allow it to get lost in our closet as well. The good news is; no, you have not wasted money and yes, it is time to recapture that look you began a couple of seasons back but dared not to try.

Within this segment two separate looks will be captured to illustrate how one dated key piece can by styled. When putting together an outfit there must always be a foundation to build upon; such as the eight year old blazer we will be focusing on within look one and look two.

A foundation piece would be considered as timeless, it can vary from a pair of classic pumps to a simple pencil skirt. Always strive to compliment the foundation piece by building upon it, not building against it.

16 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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Look 1 This daytime look correlates the subtle ruffles within the blazer which is also captured softly along the lengthy green corduroy skirt. These key features ties in not only the basic cream top, but also the cream printed stockings which complements the teal suede heels.

Tiered pearls were used to complete the overall look. However, accessoriz-

Look 1: Blazer: Axcess By Liz Claiborne Skirt: Fei By Anthropology Cream Top: Target Cream Printed Hosiery: Urban Outfitters Teal Suede Heels: Bakers Jewelry: Necklace, Forever 21

ing would be optional due to the high ruffling that trims the blazer.

Look 2

For a more casual, sleek, yet edgy

appearance, the initial blazer from look one was paired with fitted, croppedripped jeans. Two separate prints were also used within this look to add a bit more personal flare. The double-printed black and gold top was coupled with bold cheetah printed heels to add vari-

Look 2: Blazer: Axcess By Liz Claiborne Printed Top: Silence + Noise By Urban Outfitters Ripped Jeans: American Eagle Tan/Brown Leopard Pony Printed Heels: Jessica Simpson

ation to the blazer. Bold accessorizing is not necessary within this look, due to dominant prints that were added

Styled and Edited By:

with the top and heels.

Rashonda & Shakira Williams

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Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

17

GBY

Daughters of Destiny Trip May 17, 2014 To Disney

20 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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World's Magic Kingdom. We Had A Blast!!!!

SPECIAL INVITE FROM Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D. D., to the Daughters of Destiny and all the girls in the community and surrounding counties, to come out to our Daughters of Destiny Meetings!

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! It's such a blessing and so refreshing to be a Co-Founder of the "World's Greatest" ministry "Word of Oasis", as I serve beside my amazing husband Bishop Henry R. Williams.

When you walk in agreement, you walk in the power of "God", power that will transform lives. That is our hearts desire for all of the "Daughters of Destiny". Whether you realize it or not, you are royalty, according to I Peter 2:9.

Our girls club is designed to help you reach your full potential as young girls/teenagers, so that you can fulfill your purpose and change your generation. Proverbs 22:6 admonishes us to: teach your children "girls" to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it. I would like to invite all of our community girls and teenagers to be a part of a very exciting and informative quarterly meeting. In closing, Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV) says, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Because of Him,

Pastor Gwen 22 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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The Daughters of Destiny Meeting, September 13, 2014 We had a great time learning about Self-Esteem.

Girls in grades 6th-12th, enjoyed learning about Self-Esteem during our very own Daughters of Destiny "Keeping It Real" Talk Show, With Host Rashonda L. Williams.

Afterwards we enjoyed Free Giveaways & BBQ! 1st-2nd K4-K5

3rd-5th

6th-8th

The Daughters of Destiny is an

If you have a girl in grades

outreach ministry designed for girls

K4-12th, please feel free to bring

grades K4-12th. It is a mentoring

her out during our quarterly

program designed to help girls

meetings. For more information please contact Word of Oasis

understand the importance to love

9th-12th themselves and become all God has

Church Office at

predestined them to be.

229-244-9625.

Beauty for Ashes

By: Carolyn Adams-Hawkins

"He will give you beauty for ashes and you're going to be alright." A good friend and sister in Christ spoke these words to me the same day my ex-husband walked out of my life.

H

e had been incarcerated for DUI and released from jail early without my knowledge. Then he came home hours before me and cleaned house. I arrived home from work and found all of his belongings gone and he also took most of the furnishings out of the home we shared. All I could do was stare in disbelief that he actually did that. I didn't know where he'd gone or how to contact him. I began to feel devastated and at a loss of what to do.

One of my friends had come by on her way home from work because the Lord had laid me on her heart. After realizing what I was facing, she offered me encouragement from The Word, Isaiah 61:3. From where I stand today looking back at 20 years ago, feeling like my life was a shipwreck, I can only smile and say "But God!" At that time I was facing the dissolution of a marriage and all the horrible mess of a "bad divorce". Hope was not in my vocabulary, nor did I see it in my future. I vividly remember feeling like the world was caving in on me.

In the beginning of that process, there was so much sorrow and darkness but, I developed a determination to allow God to walk me through the process of recovering from a failed marriage so, that I could get on with living the life He had given me. Did I ever falter along the way? You bet I did, but the Lord was always my constant source of comfort, solace, and motivation. He placed people in my life to come alongside me to help me. There were days I felt like I was going to lose my mind and never see the light of day. I was in a dark place and sinking into depression.

Here I was living my life and BOOM! I went from being a housewife to a detached person receiving unemployment benefits, no money in

the bank, no transportation, and nearly homeless. What a transition! I had tried so hard to work through all of our marital problems, but he left anyway. Yet God was my sustainer in every situation and circumstance. For example, my landlord extended grace toward me and canceled (that’s right CANCELED!) my monthly rent for more than six months so that I would be able to live off of the unemployment

"From where I stand today

account, told lies, not to mention the verbal and physical abuse), but that attitude was cause for a very critical problem. I didn't want to forgive him. I felt bitterness trying to overtake me and I didn't know how to rid myself of it because I was so hurt. I began crying out to God to heal my broken heart and help me. That became my everyday prayer; nothing else mattered to me. I just wanted to stop crying whenever I thought about him and for my heart to stop looking hurting.

back at 20 years ago feeling like my

Sometimes I fell asleep on my knees because it was consuming life was a shipwreck, I can only smile me. All I had in those moments was God, so I constantly sought Him. Then one day I realized it happened. and say "But God!" That was a joyous day for me. I was out taking an early morning walk and clearly benefits I received (But God)! I was living on unemployment and searching for a full-time job heard the voice of the Lord say to me, "your heart doesn't hurt anymore because I healed because my job at the IRS was seasonal. I got a call from the IRS to come back to work as a full- it." I felt His joy flood my heart and I literally skipped down the road just laughing to myself time employee (But God)! A local mechanic (But God)! did extensive work on my car but only charged me a few dollars because he knew I couldn't Anyone would be glad to get out of a situaafford the repair bill (But God)! tion like that, but it wasn't so easy just to pick up and move on. My self-worth was not just To me it felt like God was going above and low, it was practically non-existent. I didn't like beyond to assure me that He wouldn't leave me the image I saw in the mirror. I kept blaming or let me fall. This motivated me to be more myself for my ex-husband's actions. I was also personal, intimate, and build a better relationtired of inquiring minds who wanted to know ship with Him because He was investing so much time in me. During this season of my life what happened to my marriage, why did it fall a part, blah, blah, blah. This created another I had a well-intentioned friend say to me that problem for me, feeling shame and condemnaI had every reason to hate my ex-husband. I tion for not being woman enough to hold the agreed wholeheartedly with her at the time, but marriage together. that kind of attitude allowed bitterness to take root in my heart.

The enemy really was piling it on thick with all of the false accusations and I was While it's true he did some dastardly things, unprepared for the battle. I had to get my (committed infidelity, cleaned out the bank

24 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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thoughts under control. My pastor at the time, recommended I seek the help of a professional counseling service called Psychological Studies Institute which is a Christian-based psychology resource.

The counselor helped me to place all things in proper perspective using the Word of God as a basis to validate my decisions. She helped me to focus on what I still had and not what was lost. That's when my recovery brought about discovery. I began to discover how much Word I had inside of me. All I had to do was put The Word into action by confessing it over my life daily and not just accept whatever the enemy dished out to me no matter what the situation looked like.

I also discovered what a radical worshipper I am. God also used two people who became my dear friends to restore laughter and joy back into my life. I had moved in with a sister at church

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who was seeking a roommate. We became and still are good friends. She helped me in so many ways. She always kept praise and worship music constantly playing in the house. Being in that environment helped to break that spirit of heaviness that I walked with. Her husband to be was a natural comedian and he enjoyed entertaining us with funny stories about life growing up in Mississippi.

I started to laugh again and felt absolutely grateful that I still had a life and a sound mind.

I became more aware and appreciative of the small things. My relationship with God grew because I was spending more intimate time with Him. He led me to discover that The Word and worship were my greatest weapons.

I began to see myself flourishing again. It was almost like God had given me new life. Am I grateful? Absolutely, positively, I owe Him (Jesus) my life because He took my broken life and

put it back together better than before! God's grace truly is amazing and He never ceases to amaze me. His grace aided me through my time of heartache and pain, and I give all the praise to Him because now I know He can heal a broken heart.

Now, I know what a great provider He is.

Now, I know that all that was taken from me is nothing to be compared with all I have acquired.

Now, I have a testimony that I can share to help someone else. Now, I know how to pray for someone else because I allowed God to take me through the process.

I thank God that I have a healthy self-image.

I know who I am, and I'm getting on with this business of living the life He has given me. He is my priority and pleasing Him is what gives me the most pleasure. Indeed, I have received beauty for ashes!

Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

25

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By: Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

By: Rashonda Williams

By: Deborah Raines

Paging

DR. YAHWEH By: Dana Simpson, PA

D

o you think of going

we are trying to help heal or keep healthy.

to the doctor as doing

But many healthcare professionals do not

God’s work? Probably

wear a symbol of their faith in a visible

not. But maybe what

way while working because current rules

you read here will give you a new per-

of political correctness discourage show of

man beings we entrust to our health are

spective on what it means to seek medical

any religious beliefs.

allowing God to work through them and

attention. Most of us have heard the state-

"When someone asks ment, “People don’t care how much you me to keep them in know until they know how much you care.” my prayers, it feels This represents popular agreement among most of us as it applies to medical like an honor --- an services. We use the word “care” to convey invitation to be part the concept of medical services with a of something special."

use them as an instrument of healing.

It is empowering to pray to God about your health because it takes away the worry and fear that some uncaring person could make a decision that harms your health, since we know that He won’t allow suffering without great purpose.

But you can go a step further in making

personal and compassionate touch. In fact, my two most recent places of employ-

Nonetheless, we pray that our faith

sure that you are at peace about health con-

ment use the word “care” in the title of the

shines through in our acts (like some

cerns by asking those medical personnel

business!

unspoken signal or secret handshake) so

to say a little prayer for you in their own

that our patients know that God is with

time. Some will pray right then and there

sician assistants and nurse practitioners,

us, even in us. Thankfully, many medical

with you, but others will vow to do it in

as well as ancillary medical professionals

professionals are bold enough to wear a

the near future (perhaps at the end of the

have a solid spiritual foundation from

symbol of their faith around the neck or in

day, or the start of the next day) while in

which they apply medical services. And

some other subtle way. When we make a

a private setting. So what if that person is

it is virtually impossible to worship the

choice to put God first and we pray about

not “religious”? How will you know? That

Lord without caring about those whom

our health, we want to know that the hu-

part is not important.

The vast majority of physicians, phy-

28 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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What’s important is that your spiritual

feels like a personal reminder from God, as

many seeds it will take. Just trust it, and let

needs are met by God while at the same

if He is saying right that moment, “Don’t

Him worry about the rest! Spiritual healing

time helping keep that healthcare provider

forget, Dana, I am always here with you

and medical healing go hand-in-hand be-

focused on what matters --- your healing.

and working through you every second.”

cause it is ALL in The Great Healer’s hands!

God hears your request for prayer, which

Don’t worry if you are unsure that the

May you feel the abundance of blessed

counts as much as the prayer itself. Addi-

person whom you asked to pray for you

health, which may not be perfect, but is

tionally, in a gentle way, it lets that profes-

is really going to do it. What if they don’t

always blessed for those who ask.

sional know that you want to see them care

really believe in all that “religious stuff ”?

(there’s that word again).

Even better!! You have done God’s work by

"Dana Simpson is a local

planting a seed (all while tending to your

Physician Assistant who

own health).

loves working in family

When someone asks me to keep them in my prayers, it feels like an honor --- an invitation to be part of something special.

You may have planted the 123,788th seed

For me, as a physician assistant, it also

in that person, and God already knows how

medicine."

Victorious Woman

Women of Excellence

An Exclusive Interview with Pastor Gwendolyn L. Williams, D.D.

Loving

Inside this Edition Meet A

The Real You

TRUE

Mighty Man of Valor

Never Give Up on Your Dreams

If you didn't get a copy of our first issue printed in Spring 2014, don't be disappointed. It is available to read Online at

Spring Hair Care & Fashion Tips

http://issuu.com/victoriouswomanmagazine/docs/magazine_1_final_for_issuu_ website_/0

Spring 2014 FREE FRE E ISSUE

If you are interested in advertising your business in our magazine, please contact our church office at 229-244-9625

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Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

29

The Hair Clinic Salon 1583 Baytree Rd., Valdosta GA 31602

The Hair Clinic Salon Staff from Left to Right: Kim Barber, Sonia Brunson (owner), Robert Wetherington, Denise Pruitt, Mary Clark Adams, Chelsea Williams, Renee Hatfield, Heather Tison, Jill Wilcox, Jan Williams The Hair Clinic has been in business for over 30 years. Sonia Brunson (the owner) took over the shop in 2007, and has been doing a wonderful job running the shop for the last seven years. The Hair Clinic was voted Best Salon in Valdosta in 2014. They do everything from classic to trendy. Their stylists do perms to highlights to bright trendy colors. The Hair Clinic has 10 amazingly talented stylists that have tons of experience and knowledge. Any one of them would love to sit down with you for a consultation, and talk about the care of your hair. Three years ago The Hair Clinic moved to the Sugar Creek Plaza (on Baytree Road); a bigger and better location. The stylists work as a team to best serve their clients' needs, and they treat all of their guests like family. They welcome anyone to come visit them, and get the pampering that you deserve.

Call to make an appointment today 229-244-3555, and walk-ins are welcome.

30 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

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Caring For Color Treated Hair Colored, Styled, & Written By: Stylist Chelsea Williams Before

N

ow a days a lot of women decide to color their hair. In most cases a lot of women

little bit. Then I dried her hair with a round brush, and curled it for the style.

want more of a natural look although, there are times when some would like a drastic change. In any case the care of your hair is the most important thing to

think about when choosing the color that you would like.

Now when choosing to color your hair understand that even if you love your natural color, you can easily just enhance it. You can make it a little bit more vibrant without changing your color altogether. There is nothing wrong with wanting to just enhance what

In this case my client Jordan came in and had about 1 1/2 inches of roots, and red

you already have naturally. One can simply just add a few highlights or lowlights to give it a

that had been faded from a previous coloring service. The idea was to get rid of the red, touch

little more dimension. Even just adding a little extra shine into your natural color will help

up her roots, and give her a wonderful natural ombrĂŠ look. I created this by taking her one level

brighten up your face, and make your hair stand out that much more. I believe that if you feel

darker than her natural level to cancel out the red and adding a subtle ombrĂŠ. She was aware

comfortable with your hair and your style that it adds that much more confidence into a person.

that I had to lighten up her ends, and this would be a little bit harsh on her hair compared to

However, if your heart says go bold, then go bold with confidence.

just coloring it one color. However, I explained that there is just a little extra step to making sure it stays healthy.

Make sure to tell your stylist what kind of look you are wanting, and to listen to the advice that they have to give. Sometimes it might take multiple visits to a salon to make sure

When we washed her color out we used a color safe (Sulfate-free) shampoo and

that you keep it healthy and to make sure that it won't break, but ultimately we want you to be

a good moisturizing conditioner. I used Matrix Biolage color care shampoo and conditioner.

happy and beautiful. We want to keep your hair healthy as can be. Your at home care should

Before styling I applied some leave in conditioner (I prefer to use the Pravana NEVO Intense

include sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and heat protectant for all of your styling, so you

Therapy Leave-in Treatment) and some Kenra Blow Dry Spray to speed up the drying time a

can take the steps necessary to make sure your hair stays healthy.

After

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Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

31

32 Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

Visit www.wordofoasis.org

From Brokenness to

God's Grace.....

By: Shannon Wisenbaker

I was approached some time ago by a friend to share my story…. said it might help someone… encourage someone…so after many attempts to start it this is my story…

M

y name is Shannon and I “was” a victim of abuse…. molestation, mental/emotional, and physical. My mother is a good woman, but never had really good taste in men. She decided to marry my biological father before she was even out of high school. A year later I was born, then she decided she wanted someone else (my father’s best friend).

To make things even more dramatic she became pregnant again with my biological father’s second child; my brother which at the time she didn’t tell him. Needless to say she divorced her first husband and married the second. Not even a year after my brother was born, the abuse began.

My mom worked nights and he worked whenever he could get a job. Most of the time he was the one who kept us. I remember him telling us that she was never coming back, had left us, and didn’t love us. He would then do things to us; me more so than my brother (whom he thought was his). He made me smoke cigarettes, and when I would cough or choke, he would laugh and knock me down.

I remember thinking, “why would mommy leave us? What did we do?” It wasn’t just my

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brother and I that would suffer some form of abuse; my mother had her share as well. There was an occasion when “Mack” put his hands through a glass gun cabinet, grabbed my mom by her hair and, dragged her into their bedroom.

I can still remember the pleading for him to stop. My brother and I were so afraid. We were even scared to get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, so we went into our closet and used our toy pots and pans to potty in.

My mother would find it and just clean it up, never saying anything.

The abuse went on for another year or so until one day Mack started hitting me and he wouldn’t stop. I was hospitalized at 4 & ½ years old. I guess my mom knew something needed to be done so she called my grandparents. They came and got us and brought us back to Georgia. My mom took my brother back to Iowa to try and work things out.

After some attempts at “reconciliation” (I guess), they chose to end their marriage. My mom came back to Georgia on the assumption that Mack would bring my brother later that month. Legally on paper Mack was my brother’s biological father. However, Mack decided to flee with my brother. It was 19 years later by chance, through a 411 call that I was reunited with my brother. He grew up thinking that my mom and I had been killed in a car wreck.

So my mom tried to be a mom to me; being a single parent was hard for her. She had her own place here, but I lived with my grandparents. I can tell you that

my papa (grandfather) was the first Godly and fatherly influence I had in my life! I was his side kick; I followed him everywhere. I lived with my grandparents until my mom met her third husband, the man I call my dad. He was the second real Godly and fatherly influence in my life. He adopted me, and was proud to call me his daughter. He was loving, but knew that I had to be the one to hug him.

He knew that I had been hurt, and he talked with me and never yelled.

He treated me like a human.

He showed me the kind of parent I wanted to be for my children. He always made time for me; cared for me when I was sick, chased away the nightmares when I had them; He is my dad. He even helped me see past the anger I had towards my mom. For a time I blamed my mom, but we have in recent years found friendship, even forgiveness.

I am almost 42 now, and have worked with the same company since I was 15. I now manage one of our company’s facilities. I have two awesome kids, one granddaughter on the way, and a simply God sent husband.

Having said that, I have had my issues over the years; self-confidence and even intimacy issues due to the physical scars I have…BUT through it all God has been there. I may have not known when or how, but He was there and still is.

This is a glimpse of my story. I wanted to say there is a way to recover, but you must let God help, let people help. If you don’t and keep it bottled up, it will wear you down. I am living proof that despite the bad that happened in my life, with God & my family I overcame that mountain!

Victorious Woman 2015 Issue 2

33

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WORD OF OASIS CHURCH INTERNATIONAL

A Place Of Refreshing, and Where You Will Find Grace!

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Worship Services Sunday Morning 10:45am Intercessory Prayer STREAM LIVE 11:00am Main Service http://wordofoasis.sermon.tv/ Wednesday Evenings 7:00pm Corporate Prayer 7:30pm Bible Study