Women%27s frontline magazine issue 17 issue 17

RISING FROM THE ASHES

WOMEN'SFRONTLINE celebrating the spirit within ISSUE 17 / JUNE 2016

THE PURPOSE OF ME ''a woman trying to find her purpose is like a novice trying to run a marathon''

HE HIT ME! ''The feelings that returned in that moment on the floor were hell ''

WHEN LIFE GETS ALL CLOGGED UP ''with disorder comes chaos, and simplicity is out the window''

magazine

SHE SAID SHE HATED ME! ''and this is where it gets interesting''

RISING FROM THE ASHES

''When, my divorce ended and I realized that with him went all my money and ability to care for my two children under 5

Wanda Floyd My mothers death sent me into a depression

INTERVIEW

Women's Frontline Magazine is a digital christian magazine that believes that anyone can be a writer. There are so many images we acquire as we meander through life. Every image has a story that is real. By writing down our life's events, we too become writers of our own story that can encourage and uplift many along the way.

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IN THIS ISSUE

8

She said she hated me

16

Interview with Wanda Floyd

28

When life gets clogged up

32

Rising from the ashes

36

Rising from the ashes my story

42

He hit me

50

Yet I arise

54

Discovering your talent

60

The purpose of me

64

The press

66

The joyful life Hildah Lunding is the Founder of Women's International Prayer Circle, a women's ministry pioneered to encourage and uplift women to find their purpose in life through the transforming power of the word of God. She is also Founder/ Publisher of Women's Frontline Magazine.

Hildah enjoys writing and connecting with others that have the same passion.

She is married and resides in Denmark with her husband and children.

Women's Frontline Magazine

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SHE SAID SHE HATED ME! we dearly love and those who we believe love us in return.

HAT just happened???

I’m literally writing this moments after this exchange.

I’m a fan of this season. Not gonna lie. I’m a sucker for all things sentimental. I wake up Thanksgiving morning (and Christmas too) with an expectation of how it’s going to be.

Of the people I’ll get to see and the conversations that will be had.

And, I’m a mix of super stoked to completely humbled and on the verge of falling into a heap of messy, I dream of all the sweet little moments created throughout the snotty tears. day that will warm my heart for years to come. (I know. It already I won’t butter this up for you. I just sounds like a sappy greeting card. * won’t. This world is full of way too SIGH*) much of that. I’m a tell-it-like-it-iskinda-girl and my walk with God is just that.

So, when I tell you this story, know it’s coming straight from the gut of my being – all the messy, all the redeemed – you’re getting a FULL mixed bag tonight.

So here it is.

It’s the day after Thanksgiving. A wonderful holiday that we (should) enjoy with loved ones. Those who

The only problem is this little thing called family.

A family is made up of people.

Wounded, breakable, people.

People who are imperfect.

People who are hurting. And who often can hurt me.

Anna McCarthy is a published author, speaker and blogger.

She and her husband are currently serving as youth directors and share the joy of raising four daughters.

I had an encounter with one of those

people. One who I love more than I EVEN know how to explain. I’d give my right arm for this girl. And, I’ve not done anything wrong (that I know of) to her. But, she is wounded….

She said the words that only happen to me in nightmares.

And, I did something she didn’t like.

I look over at my husband who is ready to call in a firing brigade to defend me. I look to my little ones who are shocked and confused. Then, I look in the eyes of this person who is filled with so much anger…

Innocently, but still she was irritated.

She spoke unkindly.

She said she hated me.

And this is where it gets interesting.

And wouldn’t stop.

For a still moment it’s quiet.

I set a firm boundary without being angry or crazy.

They are all looking at me.

And, then it happened.

Waiting to see how I will respond.

She exploded. Onto me.

Now, I can tell you how I would’ve

SHE SAID SHE HATED ME said some defensive comment and stormed off. Or I would’ve said some THAT was new. woe is me kinda response to really She quickly got uncomfortable and make them feel guilty for what they left the room. said.

I then saw the faces of my little ones.

Then I would’ve retreated and fallen Their faces filled with a million into a heap of tears begging God to questions that would’ve sent me into show me what was wrong with me. a mom-guilt frenzy.

Screaming at heaven as to why this person hated me and what I had But, instead, I calmly I turned to them done to deserve it. and explained what God calls us to hate (ie: hate what is evil, cling to All of my old wounds would’ve made what is good) an ugly appearance and I would’ve cowered away to lick my wounds for We are to hate evil. Not people. (It months…possibly until the next was a great teaching opportunity I Thanksgiving. might add. Thank you Holy Spirit) Once my kids saw I was okay, they That is how it would’ve gone. were fine and Zac eventually simmered down.

Just being honest.

My kids saw that I was unphased by But, this time was different. Very that behavior, heard me speak the different. truth of God’s word and rise above the atmosphere that she had In that moment of quiet, a peace attempted to create. rested on me that was uncomfortable. And, only Holy cow. uncomfortable because it was new.

Pretty cool.

But, I soon was VERY okay with it.

Again, didn’t see that coming.

I looked in her eyes and I was unmoved.

But, here’s where I got completely wrecked by God’s awesomeness.

Not in stubbornness. Not in arrogance. Not in some weird selfThis is where it gets SO good. righteousness stance. I was unmoved in love.

She approached me later to apologize. Which I thanked her for.

And again, old me would’ve seized that opportunity to utterly chastise her for her ridiculous behavior. (I can ONLY imagine WHAT my crazy self would have said. Oh Jesus…)

But, I’ve learned.

I’ve learned to allow the Holy Spirit to potter me and not my circumstances.

I refuse to give them the right to shape and mold me. And, in that moment I clung to Him with everything I had.

Before I EVEN KNEW WHAT I WAS SAYING, scripture came pouring out of me. (And, not condemning scripture to make me feel right and her feel wrong. That’s just gross) But, life-giving truth came out of me.

Wisdom from God’s word that I NEVER would’ve had if left to my own devices.

me like a nerf gun.

It was awesome.

She softened. She listened.

After she left, Zac asked me how I was doing. People, I promised I wouldn’t butter this up. I kid you not, this is what I actually said: I don’t allow people to define me anymore. I know who I am in Christ….I really know it. And, you can spit on me, you can call me names, you can laugh at me and you can even say you hate me – but all you’re going to get out of me is love.

WHAT?!

Zac threw his arms around me and just started laughing, saying how AMAZING GOD IS because only God could be behind a change that drastic in his wife

The Holy Spirit was firing truth out of Women's Frontline Magazine

I then started doing something even crazier.

I started SINGING PRAISE SONGS.

Hallelujah….

As I processed this with God, he showed me that this is fruit of what Seriously. happens when we go all in with Him. When we allow the freedom of the Who is this person???! gospel to penetrate EVERY ounce of our lives – when we refuse to hold Like, I couldn’t stop myself. They just anything back from him, HE DELIVERS kept coming out of me. And I was ON EVERY PROMISE. smiling. Genuinely filled with joy.

Like, joy instead of sorrow? Yeah, I’m As I sat down to write this, a wave of living that in REAL TIME. gratitude flooded me nearly And, I’m seeing that when HE is what knocking me down with tears. you’re seeking above everything Because, guys, this is freedom. I’m else, loving those who persecute you free from myself. From my own isn’t something you struggle with. It’s insecurities, from my own honestly really easy. Like, it’d be shortcomings – when you’re free harder for me to be full of anger and from that, no one can shake you. rage right now than love. It’s just not inside of me.

Not even someone you love telling you they hate you.

Jesus is inside of me. And he wants out.

When a deep, wounded place of my past was poked, all that came out I still have a ways to go on this was love – because Jesus has journey. I want more of this. I crave redeemed that place. And no one can Him. reside there other than Him.

Women's magazine

INTERVIEW WITH WANDA FLOYD

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ur theme this month of June is about rising from the ashes. No matter where where we find ourselves in life today; in brokeness, loss, sickness or sorrow, you can rise above every circumstance that has come to threaten your well being. In this place of ashes where everything dies, God raises us up so that our true beauty and true self emerges.

The bible says that all who are afflicted, burderned, brokenhearted and heavy will be given comfort. They will be given an ''ornament of beauty instead of ashes and a garment of praise instead of sorrow.''

On the June cover, is Wanda Floyd who is a single mother raising eight children and resides in the USA. Wanda's story is about how she overcame depression due to the loss of her mother, to become a happy balanced woman filled with God's purpose for her life.

Though we are challenged somewhere in our life's journey, God always has a plan for us to rise from the ash and impact our world.

It has been an honour to interview Wanda and may her story encourage and uplift you, wherever you find yourself today.....

Women's Frontline Magazine

interview

by Hildah Lunding Founder

INTERVIEW

M

y name is Wanda Floyd. I am the mother of 8 beautiful children. (Hahaha, yes they are all mine.)

I am a cosmetologist, licensed for 22 years, the owner of Inspirational Cutz and Design Haircare Center and ICD Phase II Training Academy. I am an educator and trainer.

At my church, I serve as the assistant to our Music Pastor and I am a worship leader. I have 3 passions in life, praise and worship, my industry and my children.

I love God. So spiritually my hopes, dreams and aspirations are first to be kept. So many are living a compromised lifestyle and are perfectly fine with it.

My desire is to be holy and acceptable. As a worship leader, I want to fulfill Gods purpose. Id love to do a worship CD. But not just any CD. When people listen to it, God will move in such a way that people will be healed, delivered and set free.

WFM Tell us about your hopes, dreams and aspirations

“ My desire is to be holy and acceptable. As a worship leader, I want to fulfill Gods purpose. I would love to do a worship CD. But not just any CD. When people listen to it, God will move in such a way that people will be healed,''

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In my industry, my desire is to educate. I want every stylist, barber and student even salon owners to know the value of being balanced and professional. The schools are doing their students disservice.

The schools are merely preparing the students for stateboard. They give them enough to get by. They aren't making sure the students are balanced in every area. Yes its up to them to continue to be educated once they graduate and become licensed. However, many students leave not having enough experience in or being taught: 1. All hair textures

WANDA FLOYD

2. How to look for a job 3. Having full understanding of booth rental vs commission 4. How to properly handle their finances 5. Customer service 6. Professionalism 7. Seek mentors and coaches in the industry and business These are areas I want to tackle.

This is why I started ICD Phase II Training Academy. So to assist in this, i've written a book entitled: " Brains and Beauty. 4 things they didn't teach us in beauty school."

My goal is to be able to speak, teach and train all of the world.

WFM What are the challenges and rewards of being a single mom of 8?

It's very challenging because it's 2 separate groups(meaning age difference) and 8 different personalities.

One of my biggest concerns is raising my sons. I can raise them to be respectful and teach them how to treat women by being mindful how they treat their sisters. But I can not teach them how to be men.

the things they want. But when I look at pictures of them or I hear them singing together, I realize things dont really matter. Yes they are nice. But all my kids really want most days is for me to be home with them, watching a movie. Or even if they are in the room with me and im sound asleep, that means more than anything to them.

I also feel guilty or like im a bad mother at times because I have to work so much. And because im not able to give them some of

WFM Have you found your purpose?

Yes I have found my purpose.

My purpose is to worship God through song. As I do so, God is going to heal, deliver and set free His people. To educate, train and equip stylist, barbers, students and salon owners in the beauty industry.

''I also feel guilty or like I

am a bad mother at times because I have to work so much.''

WFM Having shared that, can you share your story.

I am the youngest of 2 children. I have an older brother named Lamont. My parents Melvin and Marie Floyd were amazing parents. My father was raised in the south. Waxahachie Texas. to be exact. Raised poor, during segregation.

He left home at 18 and joined the service determined to become something. My mother was raised in Cumberland Maryland, in a not so hard environment as my father. My mother was also what they called back then, "high yellow". So she had a better education and upbringing than my father did. When they got married she was far past child bearing years, so they adopted my brother and me.

cooked for me. My dad was a chef!!! Yes im very proud of my parents. We were considered middle class I guess. All I knew was my mom was a homemaker and my dad worked hard.

At age 16 my life changed forever. My mom suffered from a heart condition.

And when I was 16 she had a massive heart attack that put her in a comma and she never came out. I was already struggling with wanting to go to school because I was having problems in a few classes. At the time I really didn't know how to ask for help.

My mothers death sent me into a depression. I couldn't even cry. I didnt want to do anything other than go to church. Eventually the depression won and I dropped out of school. But I never stopped going to church. Never My mother made sure that my brother stopped singing. Never stopped loving and I was well rounded. She taught us God. It was my relationship with God everything from proper table setting to that kept me. It was my ability to sing to etiquette. She taught us how to hold a Him that helped to pull me out of that wine and brandy glass correctly and depression and eventually what led to how to properly taste wine. I know my healing. someone just fell out of their seats!!!

She did that with her children? Yes, she There were times in my life where the did. She always said that she wanted pain was so great or the trial so hard, or her children to be refined. She wanted the situation almost unbearable, that us to be able to fit into any situation. only my ability to sing to my savior got She was preparing us for life. me through it. Sometimes with a tear stained face and a cracky voice, I still She would sit me down and read to me managed to cry out a song to Him and about 7 course meals and explain to He sustained me. Which is why today I me what they do after each course etc. am a worship leader. Praise and Those memories were precious. And worship are my heart. yes I was daddy's little girl!!! He took us to the park, purchased my barbies and

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different roles?

WFM What roles do you play and how have they built your character and presence as a woman?

I am mother, sister, aunt and friend.

Being in these roles have taught me strength, integrity, loyalty and genuine love. Women have the ability to be many things to many people at many different times. I love the fact as a woman I can be kind, gentle, sweet and sensitive all while being strong and resilient.

WFM How do you balance your time in your

Honestly, some days its not easy to balance my time in the different roles in my life. There are days when something goes lacking. But that's when you go back to God for help. I really am nothing without Him. He will lead you and guide you if you let Him. So I count on His help to ensure everything stays balanced.

''There were

times in my life where the pain was so great or the trial so hard, or the situation almost unbearable, that only my ability to sing to my savior..''

WFM Do you believe that women are stepping up to be a positive influence in their homes, communities and society?

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grow up missing something very valuable.

You are beginning to see even more women being valuable resources in our communities and society. Men have led our world. But if you want I strongly and most certainly believe to get something done, put a women women are stepping up. We have in charge of it. Women have a been forced to. Many of us have had different type of "fight" in them. That to begin to do that which was might have a lot to do with how God originally looked at as a male role or created us. Proverbs 31: speaks position. In our homes most are about a woman that is a shred single mothers, placed in the role of blessing to her home, husband and being both mother and father. We her children. She's a business are raising daughters and sons. The woman, she is a seamstress, a real unfortunate truth to this fact is, as estate agent, and an investor. She women, we can not teach our son's helps the needy. She is a strong how to be a men. We can only teach woman who carries herself with them from a woman's perspective on dignity and speaks with wisdom. She what we think a man is. We're doing is publicly praised. Isn't this what we it and have been doing on a daily are witnessing today? basis. But I believe these young men

WANDA FLOYD WFM Do you think that women are really understanding their roles in the church today ?

business deal anyway! And Boaz was old and dies soon after they get married. If you do it from the garden, theres no need to prepare for a year like Ester. You come prepared and ready like Eve!

So its hard to answer that question.

We understand what has been taught to us by other women. However, some things need to be taught over. For example: being single and preparing for marriage. The church has messed WFM up our mindset when it comes to Is your faith a foundation for marriage and our roles as wives. becoming who you are today?

If I hear one more reference to Ruth and Boaz or Ester im going to scream!!!!

Forget about that!!! Go all the way back to the garden. We need to look at Eve and ask God to make us like Eve. But help us not to make the same mistake. Eve came equipped. She was prepared for the role as helpmeet while inside of Adam. She was familiar with Gods voice and Adams voice.

She knew what Adam needed, she knew his likes and dislikes. She knew his weaknesses etc. Why? Because she was there when he was formed.

She was him. So if our prayer is God make me like Eve, make me in your image and likeness, we dont have to deal with all that foolishness of being like Ruth waiting for Boaz. That was a

My faith is everything!! God has been the delight of my heart since I was a child. He has been my constant companion. My faith in God is the very reason why I am here today. Literally God has kept me. And I love Him for it.

WFM Where do you see yourself and roles of women in the next five years?

In 5 years I see myself singing worship in different churches all over the world and walking in my ministry. I will have written several books.

Speaking to women about loving themselves and walking in their destiny. I will also be speaking, educating and training at different industry events across the United States.

GOD

women's frontline magazine

WHEN LIFE GETS CLOGGED UP The desire for order

by Lakita D. Long

O

ne day my niece Ladaysha put on her Facebook profile asking the question “am I the only person who feels like if their room/area/ house isn't together and organized then certain parts of their life are also unorganized and nothing goes as smoothly as it could?”

Then she proceeded to say, “sounds crazy but that's just how my brain operates, but now that my room is clean/organized again I feel better.

When I read this information, I begin to think about my own life, and how at times, it can get disorderly, chaotic, and down right unmanageable. Then I started thinking more globally with people, women in general and decided to respond back to her, and it started a discussion that makes me to know that we all desire order in our lives, but sometimes life just gets clogged up.

me niece to know that with disorder, comes chaos, and simplicity is out the window. It is my belief and my experience that order creates simplicity, which in my opinion is why most people even me at times, are working too hard to accomplish things.

The culprit: DISORDER. This leaves us feeling overworked, not fulfilled, always feeling shut down, tired, overwhelmed, fatigued, and always distracted.

This distraction is the very thing that starts the clog up that takes place in our life. We turn our heads away from what we are doing and something else gets in that space, and now we are 1 thing away from completing our targeted thing. Then we move on in life, and allow another distraction. So now there are two things in our way of our desired goal.

Before we know we are 5 distractions deep and our life is For those of you who commute, have clogged up with stuff. Here are some children, demanding, life that seems things that you can think about when to have wheels that won’t stop, then you need to unclog your day: I am hoping that this article speaks to you. I realized, and as I ncouraged

Lakita D. Long Speaker, Coach, Success Strategist & Thought Engineer

1. Identify your true purpose for the day (complete all task at work, or clean your house) 2. Put a time frame on the task (3 hours (9am-12pm) 3. Don’t stop the task until the time frame is up.

4. Try not to multi-task things that you have identified as important, just complete the task first, leaving no room for procrastination 5. Make yourself a priority, and do steps 1 through 4 all over again with you in mind.

Just like you would use drano to fix your sink or call a plumber to unclog your toilet, you need something to unclog your life, and the greatest thing that I can think of is time, and priority. The next time you have girltalk, with your friends, ask them have they unclogged their life, and then share with them how to do it. It works, because I am doing it right now.

Dr. Lakita’s Inspiring Thought: Your ability to see past your own errors, is the beginning of your sight being fully on God and not on you.

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For those blessed by the Lord shall inherit the land, but those cursed by him shall be cut off.

Psalm 37:22

RISING FROM THE ASHES

T

here is a spiritual place where you can get to that is a place like Petra. Petra is a famous historical place in Jordan. It is a protected place with a narrow entrance. Therefore, when you are inside the fortress, it can be wellguarded – and you are safe from your enemies. This is where God wants you to be when you are going through the storms of life – safe with Him and knowing He is guarding you and keeping you safe. You can worship Him and enjoy His presence when you are in this place.

I can’t say it’s always easy to stay in that state of “trust” in God – but, I

believe that is just where He wants us to be and calls us there where He can minister to us. Our difficulties are easy to Him. Don’t you wish you had an easy button to push sometimes to solve things instantly? It doesn’t always work that way, does it? Some things take a longer time for God to work it all out together for good.

As I go through cancer treatment, He is with me . . . all the way! He never leaves me or forsakes me. He has brought so many new people into my life and old friends are close by. And, yet, The Great Physician – I believe – has already healed me, and my healing is manifesting over time. I praise God for my life and the life of many others in this hour that Our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus is causing problems in our bodies to come to light to be healed! That’s a gift that He wants us to receive!

by Mary Eisenacher is a minister, author and song writer, and Founder of Call of the Wild Ministries, Inc. - an Apostolic Revivalist Ministry with the Mission: “Helping Others Answer God’s Call.” Her mandate is to help others get prepared for The Great Commission.

I’m on display at churches, doctor’s offices, and in the marketplace.

People are observing the goodness of God in my life. And, this has caused me to have many opportunities to talk about my love of the Lord and give out books I’ve written so that The Word is still going out. On the receiving end this time, people have ministered to my husband and I, cooked meals for us, prayed for us, and encouraged us!

Holy Spirit will keep you in perfect peace.

Will there be tears? Unbelief? Fears?

Vain imaginations? Probably! Most likely the enemy will send an arsenal against you at times to test your faith. The Holy Spirit will be there to comfort, teach, and guide you through! When you get overwhelmed, go to Petra – the place of thanksgiving, worship, singing, dancing, clapping, shouting . . . and The initial word of my trial came as a receiving the love of Father God, who shock. The enemy wanted to bring sees you perfect through the blood me to ashes and wanted me to of Jesus. Your Savior Christ Jesus believe that all was over; however knows what you need, because as God says otherwise, the doctors and man He went through too. nurses say otherwise, as do my friends and those seeing me rise – And, precious Holy Spirit is right despite it all. To be truthful, I have a there ready to remind you of who good prognosis and the Spirit of God you are in Christ and just what great is pushing me forward to keep going! authority you have to pray and watch I humbly submit my ordeal to you, the atmosphere change. At every knowing that everyone is going opportunity that you have to through something. succumb and turn to ashes, turn to God and rise!!!!!

I believe that God will help you in your trials all along the way. He will Hebrew 11:6 – He that cometh to God guide you! He will keep you . . . if you must believe that he is, and that he is keep your eyes on Him. I’m praying a rewarder of them that diligently for each one reading this article, that seek Him. God’s presence will surround you and that the inner witness of the

by Ms. Jennifer Pink

RISING FROM THE ASHES.. my story

how or if things would ever turn around. All I could see was dark skies, gray clouds and rain pouring down on me even though it was the middle of summer in Sunny California. I hen a tornado immediately applied for welfare, sweeps through the town it leaves because I had to feed my kids, but I nothing but rubble and debris behind. knew that no matter what they gave When a house becomes ablaze and me it wasn’t going to be enough for us the firefighters can barely put it out to live. all we are left to see is the ashes of what was once there. Sometimes, our We barely survived on what they life resembles the debris of a tornado gave me. After a few months of or the ashes of a fire and we start to separating from my husband, I found wonder how can we rebuild, how will myself with no place to live. I was we be able to make anything out of now homeless, jobless and full of this mess? despair. As much as I wanted to tell myself that one day things would get When, my divorce ended and I better, one day things would turn realized that with him went all my around it was really hard to believe money and ability to care for my two that when I was sleeping on a futon in children under 5; especially since he my mother’s living room or staying in wiped out my bank account and the hotels that welfare gave me removed my access to his, I definitely vouchers for. sat for a while trying to figure out

W

Women's Frontline Magazine

I can tell you that my today looks NOTHING like my yesterday. For starters, I have three kids, but I also have a great career where I make enough money to take care of my family and fund my business dreams. I have a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment that is just enough room for my family of 4. I have a car that I don’t have to worry about someone repossessing or not starting in the morning.

unrecognizable in comparison to the ashes from which I once stood. I didn’t get to where I am by just wishing it, or just hoping things would change; I had to change, and I had to change my life.

The number one thing I’ve learned in this entire process is that the only way anyone can rise from the ashes and make something out of the debris that is their life is to change themselves.

I’m not talking about changing your zip code, or rearranging your face or other My kids eat every day, they have clean body parts. I’m talking about digging clothes and are spoiled beyond belief. deep, looking within and taking Well, they may have always been responsibility and accountability for spoiled, but you get the point I’m your own mess. trying to make. My life is

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rising from the ashes

''I began to discover my passion and purpose. I began to tap into the greatness within myself and was able to pull from that versus pulling from other people...''

Ms. Jennifer Pink, Single Mom Sage, is dedicated to aiding single moms to STOP Surviving and START THRIVING! She is the Chief Decision Maker at JVillage, Inc. where she oversees several companies including The P.I.N. K. Foundation, Sage Mentoring, Sage Network, The J’s Sandbox and JKids Boutique. She personally provides supportive resources and information to empower and strengthen single moms, through her work with Sage Mentoring, the Single Moms Who Pray Ministry and The P.I.N.K. Foundation.

For me, I had to accept that I should have never married my husband; I knew he wasn’t the man for me. I have to accept that I was impulsive and emotional and didn’t plan or prepare for my next step after telling my husband I was done. I had to look around at my situation and realize that even though he did this or she did that or they did whatever I was the only one in control of my own destiny and situation. I had given all my power away to everyone else and when I decided to take it back and do what I needed to do for me and my children, things began to change for me.

from other people, which is what I had been doing all along. If you are trying to rise from the ashes of your life there’s only one thing you have to do and that is work on YOU.

Now, I’m not going to lie that can be a difficult task at times and hard to really do the self-work, but you have to. Although friends and family can be a great support system sometimes when you’re doing the self-work they can be a hindrance, so take the time to invest in an outside support group, a mentor or a coach. Make the decision to do the work and then figure out what real help you need to get it done. If you're ready to I began to discover my passion and Stop Surviving and Start THRIVING purpose. I began to tap into the please connect with me because greatness within myself and was this is what I do in women’s lives able to pull from that versus pulling just like you!

HE HIT ME! Anna McCarthy is a published author, speaker and blogger.

She and her husband are currently serving as youth directors and share the joy of raising four daughters.

I

at times would become violent.

don’t want to write this.

Like AT ALL. But, for the past few weeks, the Lord has been waking me up at night churning in me to write about this.

The outbursts weren’t horrible at first (well, maybe they were but I was too young to understand what was happening at the time). Each time they became more and more violent. More scary. More threatening. More damaging – emotionally and physically.

But, I loved him.

Because He’s in love with us.

And I believed he loved me.

He’s in love with me.

Round and round we went until I eventually left him.

He’s in love with you.

It’s been a LONG time.

And this is something I can’t be quiet about.

So (deep breath) here it goes…

Many years ago (I won’t get into how long ago – you might think I’m old) I was in a relationship with a guy I was crazy about. He was everything I wanted. Except….he had a temper. And

I’ve healed. I’ve forgiven. I’ve chosen to love. I’ve moved on.

Women's Frontline Magazine But, two years ago when I was pregnant with my youngest, I struggled with low blood sugar and one morning I passed out.

I was in the bathroom when it happened. Apparently, I hit the corner of the sink and wall on the way down.

My face was pretty beat up.

(And, please don’t email me and ask me who it was, how old I was, etc. I’ve forgiven them and I love them. I decided long ago that I would not damage their reputation or air their dirty laundry. So please don’t ask):) BUT, I share this part of my life to lay the groundwork for this blog…

When I came to, I was disoriented.

Over the years, God has brought many I didn’t know where I was. All I felt was women into my life who have dealt the cold tile on my face and the with abuse. Many specifically who are swelling pain in my body. married to men who are violent.

I hadn’t felt that way since….

I hate this.

I started to shake and scream and cry hysterically.

I hate that this happens.

Zac rushed in, picked me up and frantically called the doctor.

I hate telling you that this happens in church.

In Christian families.

While he was getting ice packs and talking to the nurse on the phone, I sat motionless on the couch. He kept trying to talk to me, but I couldn’t talk…

I was quiet for a long time.

Eventually, he took me to the hospital to have the baby checked out and make sure everything was okay.

But it does.

One particular woman called me in hysterics after her husband violently attacked her children. But, I was her second phone call.

Her first call was to her pastor.

His recommendation was for them to come together for marriage counseling I remained pretty quiet. (with him) to focus on “restoration”.

(All while her husband is going crazy But, random tears continued to fall beating her child in the background) throughout the day…

No mention of safety. No mention to I wish I could explain to you what I was call the police. feeling. I wish I could’ve explained it to Zac. The feelings that returned in Nothing. that moment on the floor were hell – one that nearly shattered me so many years ago.

Anna McCarthy

But, I’ve also watched these women run to Jesus.

refer to you a shelter for battered women and children. It isn’t something to be ashamed of. It I’ve watched him transform a frail, happens to the poor, to the wealthy, broken shell of a woman into a strong to the Christian, to the non-Christian mighty warrior for the Kingdom of alike. It is part of the broken world we God. I’ve watched it happen. And it’s live in) AWESOME. I love you. I champion you. I I know Jesus. champion your story. And I pray that we ALL can open our eyes to those I’ve seen Him heal, restore and free around us who may need us to help these women and children. them find their voice.

All that being said, do I believe God can restore a damaged marriage? Yes. Do I believe he can restore one that included violence? Yes. But, not with the victims remaining in the home.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Proverbs 31:8

Restoration can happen if and only if the abuser seeks professional help (long term) and there is a strong network of professionals involved that walk them through that process.

And even then, it’s something that should be handled very cautiously.

Anna

(If you or someone you know is in living in fear, please contact the police. File a report and ask them to

Hugs (and kinda teary eyes),

PS: I mentioned earlier, please don’t use this as a forum for theological debate. Any comment you write could be read by a woman living in a dangerous situation. These situations are real. Please use sensitivity and understand that your words could be the difference between her life and death.

Women's Frontline Magazine

HE HIT ME

Anna McCarthy

She ran and ended up on the other end of the phone with me.

I walked her through calling the police and following the appropriate steps to gaining safety for herself and her children.

But, sadly that pastor’s reaction isn’t unusual.

Again, I don’t like writing this, because I love pastors. I love churches. But, this…. this is something that is killing us.

And it’s breaking our Father’s heart.

The thing is, these pastors and churches, sincerely believe they are doing the right thing. They believe God hates divorce. And he does. But, they value the marriage as a greater priority than the people inside of the marriage.

But we can do better.

I once read a book called, Refuge A Pathway Out of Domestic Violence by Donald Stewart. He’s a veteran police officer and a Jesus lover. (FANTASTIC book btw) He shares countless accounts of domestic violence in the church and exposes a great need for understanding and protection for these women.

He challenges the idea that many pastors hold to which is: divorce is only biblical when there has been marital unfaithfulness or abandonment.

He takes a strong biblical stance that domestic violence is biblical abandonment.

I agree with him.

But, this isn’t an invitation for a And when domestic violence is involved, theological debate. That is not the it is so dangerous. purpose of this blog. The purpose is to open your eyes to the women around I love you church. you who may be living in a cycle of domestic violence.

I love you men and women.

women's frontline magazine They may be afraid to ask for help.

They may have been told God wants them to stay. They may believe this is all God has for them and their children.

One of the women I walked through domestic violence wrote this after feeling abandoned by her church for not returning to her husband. She writes to her husband, To the Abuser: Why did we leave? Most of the time you are a “normal” guy. There are even times we have a lot of fun and laugh. So it isn’t because you are awful all the time. You are not always that monster. Maybe 10% of the time you are an abuser. And at first look that doesn’t seem like a lot. And for awhile I was even wondering if I could live with the 10%. Should I throw away the 90% for the 10? Did the 10% justify leaving??? But then I realized that after the 10% was over for you, the tears and the blood were not dry yet. The painful words are still lingering. We were still in fear. In fear of the next time, wondering when and what would set off the next barrage.

And I realized that your 10% became our 100%. And that is enough to leave over.

And it’s not at all what God desires for his daughters.

He never intended us to live in a prison cell of fear.

Because He’s GOOD. Sweet sisters, God is GOOD. SO SO GOOD. He’s such a good Father. Would any good father regulate his children into living like this? Afraid of being hit.

Afraid of watching your kids be hit, be locked outside at night or threatened with knives and other weapons if they ever tried to leave?

NO. He wouldn’t.

He doesn’t.

He protects. He guards. He heals. He loves. He provides rest. He provides safety.

Because He’s GOOD. This is an outcry to challenge the church to walk like Jesus. Just read the gospels. Watch Jesus’ character. What do you believe he would tell an abused, beat up woman seeking safety from her abusive husband?

I cry when I read this.

I will say it again.

I cry because it’s so real.

He’s a GOOD FATHER. It’s terrifying.

AN AWESOME FATHER. It’s demonic.

HE HIT ME

Anna McCarthy

I’ve walked with these women. I’ve

sat in attorney’s offices with them while they shake trying to tell their story. I’ve been on the phone with them while they cry. I’ve looked in the eyes of children whose parents left them with black eyes and shattered trust.

But, I’ve also watched these women run to Jesus.

(If you or someone you know is in living in fear, please contact the police. File a report and ask them to refer to you a shelter for battered women and children. It isn’t something to be ashamed of. It happens to the poor, to the wealthy, to the Christian, to the non-Christian alike. It is part of the broken world we live in)

I’ve watched him transform a frail, broken shell of a woman into a strong mighty warrior for the Kingdom of God. I’ve watched it happen. And it’s AWESOME.

I love you. I champion you. I champion your story. And I pray that we ALL can open our eyes to those around us who may need us to help them find their voice.

I know Jesus.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Proverbs 31:8

I’ve seen Him heal, restore and free these women and children.

Hugs (and kinda teary eyes), All that being said, do I believe God can restore a damaged marriage? Yes. Anna Do I believe he can restore one that included violence? Yes. But, not with PS: I mentioned earlier, please don’t the victims remaining in the home. use this as a forum for theological debate. Any comment you write could Restoration can happen if and only if be read by a woman living in a the abuser seeks professional help dangerous situation. These situations (long term) and there is a strong are real. Please use sensitivity and network of professionals involved understand that your words could be that walk them through that process. the difference between her life and And even then, it’s something that death. should be handled very cautiously.

Yet I arise ~ The gift of beauty for ashes Arise from the dead “Wherefore he saith, Awake, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall shine upon thee.” Ephesians 5:14 ASV To arise from the ashes is to resurrect in spirit, soul and body. To emerge from spiritual death, to remain connected with Holy Spirit. To resurrect from in emotions, to be sensitive, to feel, to be alive & awake in the body. It is to function fully as a whole person. Only when a woman awakes can she lay hold of the dream, the promised land. It is when the word of God is fulfilled in her life, “thy dead shall live; my dead bodies shall arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in the dust; for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the

earth shall cast forth the dead.”

Isaiah 26:19 ASV

Arise and eat "And he looked, and, behold, there was at his head a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.”

1 Kings 19:6 ASV When a woman is depressed, in ashes, in sack cloth, she must like Elijah obey and feed her body, only then can she enter a higher plane of life. Ashes of life become substance in the coals to bake the sweet cake of life. The journey requires strength & the body needs food to keep up, and living word is the food a woman must eat daily. So she must arise and eat.

Sandra Mtandabari CPsychol FBPsS International speaker, writer, consultant therapist, workshop facilitator, trainer & expert witness, supervisor & mediator based in UK

Arise and go

This is what the promised land will yield for a woman that goes. When your Moses is dead, the Joshua in “Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you must lead, you can not sit waiting for the river to dry, you must thou, and all this people, unto the cross the Jordan and lay hold of the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.” Joshua 1:2 promised land.

ASV Arise, let us go from here Land denotes riches & wealth, a place of no lack, a place of peace. A place of dwelling, of comfort, of "nothing missing nothing broken" shalom. Land holds soil and in soil is found life, nutrients, minerals, water and all that is pertaining to life and growth.

“but that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.” John 14:31 ASV

women's frontline magazine

by Sandra Mtandabari

To arise go to a land the Lord is giving you, is to approach His throne room, where peace is found. To enter in YOU must arise, you must emerge, you must come out of the ashes, you must obey the call, you step out in faith. You must exercise choice! You can no longer daydream but must take a leap of faith, a leap out of stagnation. In daydreaming, the mind transcends into a place of emptiness though filled with thoughts, the answer is to take captive of those dreams, allow the Lord to turn those ashes to beauty, in the fulfilment of the dream. A woman must leave her "here" to enter her "there".

Arise & shine “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of Jehovah is risen upon thee." Isaiah 60:1 ASV The Lord gives beauty for ashes, He knows your toiling and when you obey His call, you defeat the dullness of drudgery, you shine

and He is glorified in your works.

Though the works may be menial, it is in obedience that meaningfulness is manifested.

Exercise authority ~ speak life As Elijah spoke to the dry bones in the , a woman must speak life her every circumstance; rejection, brokenness and disappointment. “Again he said unto me, Prophesy over these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of Jehovah." Ezekiel 37:4 .... enter the land I Am is giving you!

And I will put my Spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I will place you in your own land: and ye shall know that I, Jehovah, have spoken it and performed it, saith Jehovah. " Ezekiel 14 ASV Woman arise!

Diamonds & Pearls devotion

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE

DISCOVERING YOUR TALENT

by Brian D. Hunter

Women's Frontline Magazine

O

Thousands audition believing they have what it takes to be the next American Idol. Many of the contestants have been singing and performing since their childhood.

While others have been in stage plays, showcases, and concerts.

n June 11, 2002 the television show American Idol debuted as the newest sensation across the nation. American Idol solicits the best talent in the country, in hopes of discovering the next big And some have received accolades singing sensation and star. and awards for their vocal performances.

To accomplish this, a panel of three judges Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, Most of the contestants display and Simon Cowell audition excellent vocals skills, however there thousands to find that talented are some who at best were just not needle in a haystack. The judges all good singers and at worst were just possess different personalities: plain horrible!

Randy the hip encourager, Paula the feel good nurturer, and of course Simon the honest pessimist.

When presented with those who are not so talented, Randy, and especially Paula are very gracious to even the worst singer, attempting to encourage and spare their feelings. But our friend Simon is always brutally honest with the worst of contestants.

an individual, and so unfair on a corporate level, as it relates to the body of Christ. To aid in your journey of discovery let me suggest some ways to discover your gift.

Which begs the question, how does one know that they possess a gift? I believe we all possess a gift, some even more than one. But how do we really know what our gift is? The bible declares that all of us have been given at least one spiritual gift. In ministry, we all have witnessed at one time or another, individuals who are attempting to do something they clearly are not gifted to do. It is painful to watch. It is detrimental on

We are doing the same thing but called to operate it different. Don’t be afraid to try an array of different things. You are bound sooner or later to find your niche

First of all, your gift is not your decision its your discovery. The bible Simon gives his honest synopsis of says the spirit gives gifts as He the horrible performance, and of desires. The Creator decides and the course some of the contestants beg to creation discovers. Our gifts and skills differ with Simon’s opinion. For some are given by the Holy Spirit. Though of the contestants it is as if they are you may possess the same gift as hearing for the very first time that someone else. How YOU do it will be they are horrible singers. Which may strikingly different from the way mean either they are “great” singers someone else does it. by their own admission.

Our job is to discover what gifts we Or their family and friends who have have been given. So many times heard them sing, have not had the based on a passion or a longing for a heart to be honest about their vocal certain gift we decide that we are talents. Some of the contestants get going to pursue a certain gift. Only to so angry about being told they cannot discover (or not) that we were sing, that they have a few choice never gifted to do this. Remember words for the judges, especially there are different gifts, and different Simon. So the contestant reaches the ways they are put into operation. I American Idol audition before a preach from a pulpit platform on nationwide television show, believing Sundays. However, during the same they possess a gift that truly they do moment there are preachers who are not have. preaching on a street corner.

and fit. But work hard to discover your unique gift.

DISCOVERING YOUR TALENT

women's frontline magazine

your niche and fit. But work hard to discover your unique gift.

The third suggestion would be to Observe what ignites your strategic ability. Your dominant gift is often Secondly, gifts are Affirmed by the the same gift that causes you to think Body, If you truly possess a gift most strategically and creatively. As someone will always affirm that you you are praying and being patient, possess a particular gift. For example consider the thing you find yourself you may be standing next to thinking about most, and strategizing someone in church singing a about most. It is often that same gift congregational hymn. The person that is linked to something in your next to you overhears you singing environment that you would like and remarks that “You have a great to see changed or improved. voice!” Your gift is affirmed by Another fourth suggestion is that you someone else. At some point in time have an insatiable passion to as people exercise your gift. Let me rush to say continue to say the same things that just because you have a passion about your gift it will validate the gift for something does not make it your you possess. gift. I have a passion for music. I love to sing!

If you think you can cook. Bring a dish to the next church potluck. If the In the car I sound just like the person parishioners clean the pot, your singing on the radio. In the bathroom culinary skills have been validated by I can hit high notes, and low baritone the body. If the fork is still sticking up notes. The only problem is I in your dish and no one is eating it, can't sing! I have a passion for it but I regardless of what your family may am certainly not a gifted singer at say you probably don’t possess a all. Having a passion for something is cooking gift. Gifts are affirmed the gift that you eat, sleep, and can't by the body. wait for the opportunity to exercise it.

Brian D. Hunter is a son, father, friend, encourager, author, consultant, visionary, and Senior Pastor. He has devoted his life to empowering and equipping people thrive. He has been in ministry for over 25 years. He has impacted the masses through writing, consulting, education, and insightful resources.

His greatest joy is equipping others to achieve their goals; helping them discover and develop the unique gift God has given to them. Feel free to visit his website at briandhunter.org for more resources

But never confuse enthusiasm with passion. There have been times personally that I have been asked to minister at a conference. I was excited and filled with enthusiasm. I couldn't wait to get there. To me a conference meant hundreds of people. However, when I got there, I could count the number of people who were there on one hand. Immediately my enthusiasm hit an all time low because of the attendance. But as soon as I started exercising my gift, my passion for delivering the gift took over and it didn't matter how many people were there I just wanted to exercise the gift.

Lastly, Pay attention to the gift that is most in demand. What gift is most requested by others. What is that gift God grants you the greatest opportunity to display? Ironically, what is in demand by others may be

the very gift that makes us most uncomfortable to operate in. Or it may be the gift that you have become so accustomed to using that it is no challenge and now even boring to you.

We must always remember that what’s old to us is fresh to the person on the receiving end. As we prepare and hone the gift that God has given, He will also provide opportunities to share your gift and heart.

These five factors are designed to lead you down a path of discovery and critical thinking. You are too gifted to allow your gifts to remain stagnant. The world is waiting to be blessed by you. Spend as much quality time as you can in prayer, and remember “Faithful is He who that called you, and He will do it.�

(1 Thess. 5:24)

Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass. It is about praising God through the storm, for it is in praise that we will learn to dance again.

Hildah Lunding Founder Women's Frontline Magazine

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

THE PURPOSE OF ME

A

fter experiencing divorce, the angst of purposelessness almost tore me apart. But one of the most important components of my healing was learning that ; finding purpose is a universal heart's cry. I wasn't alone in yearning for a life that had significance!

A woman trying to find her life's purpose is like a novice trying to run a marathon. Both need a partner who can prepare them for the challenges and risks that lie ahead.

If God has a purpose for me, why do I often feel as though I’m simply existing and not living?

earth!

I know I used to be more concerned with religious to-do lists and endless faith-driven obligations than with unearthing the buried passion God instilled in me. There was a time when I would routinely ask myself, Am I happy? I was so unhappy, I could not even get the question out before I started sobbing.

As women, we need to discover our purpose in life for two reasons. First, fulfilling our purpose gives glory to God. Second, it releases us from the captivity of hopelessness and despair.

How do we define and find our purpose? For many Christian women, purpose is being and doing what God intends for us to be and do: doing what God asks us to do in our family, church, and community; That's because when we*re in ;robot being more like Christ, and then mode, we let busyness, noise, fear, doing the distinct, bold work God or impure motives drive out that designed us to do before we die! purpose. We guilt ourselves into doing the hard work of becoming holy in the day-to- day grind instead of experiencing the reward of fulfilling the reason God put us on

Lin Johnson is a Speaker, Writer, Teacher and Mentor with a passion for women's ministry. A divorced mother of three, Lin is woman with experience and wisdom and she uses her God given gifts to inspire, motivate and empower others.

She is passionate about people and as the producer and co-host of a weekly blog talk radio show, she uses that platform to reach a vast audience. Lin believes in the promises and power of God, and shares her love for Christ through the ministry call on her life. As the creator of Lin's Lessons, a personal ministry project, she also shares great insight and life application. And with the release of her upcoming book, soon she will be adding Author to her repertoire.

She can be contacted at linjohnsonspeaks@gmail.com

The word of God gives us a clear path to follow in the commandment (Matt.22:36-39 and the commission (Matt. 28:19-20). These verses confirm our roles and responsibilities as well as position. The Christian purpose is easy to discover. But therein lies the question, what about our personal mission?

How do I discover my very own unique journey of purpose? As a PK (preacher’s kid), it may surprise you to know that the scriptures were not the first thing I ran to. I did not drop on my knees in fervent prayer!

However, I was in desperate need for God to take the wheel.......and drive fast!!

It took a month of Sundays (many of those NOT sitting in church) to discover that I had it all wrong! I was seeking “why”, “what “ and “how” answers through speculation, instead

of allowing God’s word and healing power to give me revelation. Here is what I realized...

It is often said that life is hard. I’d like to rephrase that to “Life, as you are living it is hard on you", but there is a better, a more simpler way (notice I did not say easier). You have to decide just what kind of person you are going to be and develop a living philosophy that is in agreement with who you are.

Isn't it amazing that the one thing that should be of the utmost importance to us, our purpose in life, is often the one thing that we understand least. We study to become doctors, lawyers, etc. yet we spend little to no time trying to understand ourselves.

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

I am sure most of us know who Bruce

Lee is, I read something very interesting that he said a long time ago. He told a story about a conversation he had with a master martial artist. In that conversation, the man asked Bruce to teach him everything he knew about martial arts. Bruce held up two cups, both filled with liquid. “The first cup,” said Bruce, “represents all of your knowledge about martial arts.

The second cup represents all of my knowledge about martial arts. If you want to fill your cup with my knowledge, you must first empty your cup of your knowledge.”

If you want to discover your true purpose in life, you must first empty your mind of all the false purposes you’ve been taught (including the idea that you may have no purpose

at all).

To help you define your purpose, you can look at it like this. People on this earth can be practically defined into three types. They will fulfill their purpose on earth by either: doing, knowing, or becoming something. Which one is most important to you?

To know why you were placed on this earth, you must begin with God, your creator. You were born by His purpose and for His purpose. See, spiritually, what I also discovered was the very thing I was running from; seeing myself through the eyes of Christ, was the very thing I needed. When I began to clear away the mental and emotional debris, I no longer concentrated on what had happened to me, I was able to meditate on what was happening for me. MY Purpose!

THE PURPOSE OF ME regret, frustration, confusion, and pain behind me before I could focus on the race God set before me. It took The Bible says, Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is me years to hear God's voice over the noise and confusion in which I lived. ahead, I press on toward the goal to And we need intentional partners to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus help us! As an immature Christian and an introvert, I didn';t realize I (Philippians 3:13-14). needed more mature Christian women who could help shed light on I began to ask God to reveal me to what God was saying to me about His me. The more I prayed, worked on will for my life. healing and read the word of God (Psalm 37:4, Fortunately, God blessed me with the Matt. 14:27 wise women counsel that I needed. and John 17:1 They were already present figures in were life rafts for me), the better I my life, who I didn’t know were also began to feel. the earthly resources necessary to carry, teach and pray for me. It is very After my divorce, I lived in manic important to surround yourself with mode; I am amazed now, that I women who have the capacity to actually thought I could find God's serve as personal board of directors purpose in the midst of my frantic and chaotic life. I had learned to just for your life. Because it’s not only about knowing your purpose but it’s function. I numbed my pain with also about living ON PURPOSE! shutting people out, over spending,

What do you mean?

and burying myself in working (the “work” part is something I’m still working on). It didn't occur to me that my pain would become my purpose. There was a purpose for me.

I had no idea how much my past influenced my everyday life. I needed to put my anger,

I found the purpose of me; to live consciously and courageously, to resonate with love and compassion, to awaken the great spirits within others, to always be authentic and honest, to learn the lesson and to leave this world in peace.

THE PRESS Dr Anita Snowden

women's frontline magazine

The second press is when Paul’s renouncing all of his accomplishments in the world to I press towards the mark for the price possess the kingdom while losing of the high calling of God in Christ those things that easily beset you.

Jesus.

Paul had to realize that he must receive the crown of life and no longer become bondage or a crutch to the world. As we walk through this ungodly and dark world as the salt of the earth we face resistance from the world in righteousness, a dense a weak foundation that is exhausting here are two kinds of where weariness is inevitable. presses. A press of the oil in the wine press for the anointing to birth out of There is a tremendous brick that falls a place of the unknown for an on the righteous that gives us the assignment, this oil is applied that earthly pressure in order to murder God may get the glory out of us and our faith, rob our hope and kill our acknowledge the greatness inside of joy, from the view of society they us. This happens only when one have must dictate how you go through the been squeeze through the pressures pressures of life, we now want to be of life, so that one may past the test life coaches instead of disciples. of pressure the power in the oil may Society says we must go along the be produce when the fullness of secular pace and not in the press that times come for the due and reaping will force us towards the direction of season. This type of press is when God’s will, instead they feed us with you have encounter Judas and he has addictive lifestyles, medicate us so been assigned to your season so God our mind will become paralyzed dead can move you from the wilderness to while suffering in silence. The world Canaan. Judas’s kiss is to betray and says you are a god within yourself, reject you in your hour of trial. This but the bible says “Trust in the Lord press is a must to make one strong g with all your heart; and lean not to in faith, hope and most of all God. your Philippians 3:14

T

Reared in a home polished by the beauty of Christian principles, Pastor James A. Crawley and Evangelist Dora L. Crawley cultivated the formative years of their daughter, Anita, with the academic, spiritual and social substance to make a difference through her service to humanity. Anita, a full-blooded offspring of the Church of God in Christ was singled-out with cognitive promise at an early age, explaining her uninterrupted academic succession from East Orange High School through Essex County College with a concentration in Business Administration. She obtained an Honorary Doctorate Degree in December 2015, and when extended her gift as an author of the booked entitled “God’s Prophetic Equilibrium” through this book her vision was fulfilled. The ultimate goal of my ministry “teaching true and reliable words so that they can give sound answers” (Pr 22:21a) when the world asks them what they believe and why.”

understand” {Proverbs 3:5} The bible teaches us to depend on the only one that is Alpha and Omega, he is the creator of all things, nothing before him, neither after him. God wants us to press not because he desires to see us suffer, but because the mark that Paul tells us in Philippians is not a blemish then we will focus on the flow, this mark is not a bruise then it will remind us of our past, this mark is not a title then our hearts will be lifted up, this mark is not asymbol its supernatural.

like going, you have prayed still see manifestation, you live and walk with God, the more you live the more it gets worst, but you can’t focus on what you see in the natural, because the press is there so you will not be separated from the love of God, the press says all things work together for the good.

The press is greater is he that is within me, the press says be not weary in well doing, the press says weeping may endure for a night but joy shall come in the morning. This press is more than pushing and We must press because we are more propelling but it’s about the power than conquers, I know that it looks to prevail. When you press in the bad, feels bad and you don’t feel press, you will be triumphant!!!

THE JOYFUL LIFE Ecclesiastes 3:11 “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.�

King James Version (KJV)

I

n every possible way maintain your joy. See the good in everything.

Have a spirit of gratitude in everything. God gives strength to the weak. When you are doing all you can, and pursuing what you love. Do not be discouraged on the journey of life pursue what you love most.

Always find a way to be joyful in everything.

The joy on the inside shall reflect on the outside. Sometimes the demand of life can be full of pressure.

However remain joyful, peaceful in the high demand of life. There is always greatness that comes from the pressure of life. There are many decisions to make in life, however stay calm and keep the peace and joy. The scriptures says, The end matter is better than the beginning. It does not matter where you start, it

matter most where you finish in life. All things work together for good, for those who love God and called according to his purpose. Be encouraged even when life has some difficulties.

Trust God in everything. God is working behind the scene. Your labor is not in vain. Find all ways possible to see the bright side of everything.

Even in the difficulties find every way possible to see the best in it all. God has a way of making everything beautiful at the right time. Learning to trust God and trust the timing of God can bring fruitfulness.

Every season must come to an end.

When life has crossroad moments, it is an indicator of change coming.

When change occurs, than better things happen. It takes change for greatness to happen. Change has to happen to see things in a productive way in life. There must be a willingness to change for the better.

Joy is a mother, and she mentors woman of all walk of life. Joy moves in the gifts of healing & miracles. She is also a Minister of dance bringing healing into the lives of many because of the anointing of God. Joy is the Overseer of Fishers Of People International Ministry. VisionIntimacy with God, birth ministries, & so much more.

One way to look at change is to see that change is a good thing. God must have planned better ahead for you, that is the purpose of change.

Change is for better.

When you understand change is there to push you into a better way of life it will improve life into something far greater. It takes courage to put your attention on moving forward in life. It takes faith to take action to improve in life.

Change begins with a simple step in moving forward and trying something different. It is doing the opposite of something to get a new result of something else.

If you have always been use to doing something the same way, do the opposite of what you are doing. You will begin to see how simple it is to begin a new habit of something so

great. Something that will improve your confidence level and improve the way you live. All it takes is courage to finish what you started.

Start a little step at a time. It will produce big results. See the the ending of you already finishing what you started. Believe in yourself and you will accomplish what you set your mind to do.

Do not give up on what you love and what you enjoy in life. Take a courageous step to go back to what you have not yet finished. Make something happen out of it. It will take you to far places in life. What makes you excited about life?

the joyful life What motivates you about life?

What brings a smile on your face?

Return to the very thing in your life that gives you a peace of mind. That very thing that fills your heart with joy. Capture it with your all. Pursue after it with everything in you.

Having joy is choosing to have it.

When you know that joy comes from the pressure of life, giving up is not an option.

It comes from always trying in all ways possible. The way to maintain your joy is do what you love the most. What do you love to do? Find a quiet time to do exactly what you love to do. You will begin to see the joy that comes from doing what you love. Life will have more meaning and purpose. Life will be worth living. Never give up on life. The good and the not so good has purpose in life.

Joy Jallah

weakness turn to strength. May your mourning turn into dancing.

God gives strength to the weak. Let the weak say, I am strong. Let the poor say, ;I am rich.

Joy always comes from the pressure of life. Joy comes through the storm of life. Joy comes from the furnace of life. Always maintain the greatest joy of all which comes from the presence of God. A cheerful spirit is good medicine. A broken spirit dries up the bone. The joy of the Lord is our strength.

Find peace of mind. Find joy in everything.

A Prayer of Gratitude.

Lord we just want to acknowledge you in our heart of thanksgiving. We thank you for life. We thank you Lord Find purpose in everything in life. for never giving up on us. We thank Always focus on what you love in life. you for being our source. We thank And the good thing you love in life you for the very air we breath. We shall be your very pursuit. God's thank you Lord for your grace and purpose is for your life to be great. mercy for us. We thank you for May God perfect everything making a way out of no way. We concerning your life. May God make thank you for restoring and your life beautiful and perfect in perfecting our lives. Lord we thank every aspect of your life. May your you for your wisdom you give to us in darkness turn to light. our daily life decisions.

May your sorrow turn to joy. May your pain turn to purpose. May your lack turn to abundance. May your

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