Being Courageous

Today I learned that my aunt passed away. She was always so kind to me and always greeted me with a sweet smile, hugs and kisses, even when I got older and would only see her every few years. I keep thinking of how she would always remind me that she and I have the same birthday. I loved hearing her say that when I was a child; perhaps it was just that she made me feel so special like we had a unique and special connection because we shared the same birthday. I don’t know, I guess it seems silly thinking about how excited I would get about her as a child. As we grow older we don’t think it’s so important to hear those same things over and over until the day comes when that person is no longer with us to say those words. I’ll hold on to those words and seeing her sweet smile and the warmth that I still feel when I think of her kind heart . Aunt Faye, I wish you perfect and peaceful rest in the loving arms of our Lord in heaven.

Are you so preoccupied with obsessing over future plans and decisions that you fail to see what’s going on right now; what choices you need to make today; and what’s needed in your life at this very moment? Are you finding that you are stuck making habitual responses and your life has become dull and mundane as you sleepwalk through your days, following well-worn paths of routine. Allow God to help you seek what He has placed within you- this gift that He has placed in your heart is something that comes naturally to you and it will blossom more as you attach it to the talents that He has given you; your gifts and talents are there - He placed them in your heart! That’s why nothing else you do in life will ever compare to doing this particular thing. In pursuing this, you allow the creator of the universe to lead you along fresh trails of adventure! Watch the joy that comes as He reveals each step along the way. You will learn and see things that you did not know! And as you yiel

This morning I had the pleasure of attending a single women's group. I was so moved by the women who spoke today. I thank God for encouraging us in our faith, strength, direction and patience. God reminded us that when we yield to His Spirit and remain in relationship with Him, we can be content in all things and all circumstances. God has purpose for each of us and today I believe He gave us more confidence and boldness to pursue our purpose in Christ.

I'm half way through the semester! I am really enjoying being back in school. God has sustained me through the ups and downs and enabled me to focus on studying. I'm grateful that God is giving me such incredible opportunities to learn and grow both spiritually and intellectually.

Father, I pray that you would raise up your children who you have called that we may join together to win souls over to Christ for the sake of your Kingdom. Father I pray that those we encounter would be open to receive your word; to accept your truth; and accept Christ as Savior. Give us wisdom and help us to walk by your spirit and not by our flesh. Father your word says that your sheep hear your voice. Speak Lord, that we all might hear you. Thank you for allowing me to be an instrument in the lives of others. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.

I'm glad to be back in school. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow spiritually and intellectually. God is faithful!

Everyday this world grows more and more selfish. Most seems to have this strong "sense of entitlement" that allows them to treat others with disrespect and little regard for the feelings of others. We are definitely losing the war right now. Where is the compassion, kindness and encouragement? I'm not where I want to be, but I thank God for giving me a change of heart; giving me more compassion and understanding; allowing me to love and lift others up; and just say thank you! God Bless.

I'm ready to go back to school. It's odd that just a few months ago I was ready to let go of the dream of completing my degree, but the more God stirs my heart to counsel, the more I'm ready to get moving and do what it takes to accomplish this goal. I was talking to a friend last night and she said some things that really motivated me. She was thinking out loud and brainstorming on how I could earn my degree and support myself financially and how I could tie my writing into all of this. It got me thinking too, so we'll see what doors God will open as I move forward in pursuit of my degree!

I've become obsessed with exercising again. Next to God and my family, its one of the things I think about most, ok and good food too! I just woke up one day and decided I'm so sick and tired of feeling unhealthy and not being physically fit and not doing anything consistently to change it. I want this to become a life style and not just sporadic impulses of going crazy exercising and losing a bunch of weight and then falling into a slump and gaining the weight back. My struggles with weight has been a constant battle since my early 30's and it doesn't seem to get any better as I get older. Determined to stay focused and shed the weight!

It started out as a flame - a dream, a hope, a desire - smoldering quietly within the confines of my heart. As my passion grows, so does my inspiration, motivation, and determination. The status quo is no longer satisfactory. I must take action! I am no longer content just sitting by watching my dreams pass me by. The flame of my spirit has kindled a wildfire in my soul, transforming my life and I hope the lives of others as I am driven and compelled to make a change - make a difference - no matter what the cost!

Lord, you have ignited such passion within me for the call you have placed on my heart; it's about my purpose for your kingdom! It's with me wherever I go and I think about it all the time. I can’t predict what's next or what door you will open next, I just know that you are leading me somewhere great and I am excited about the journey! I pray that lives will be changed and hearts will be stirred for you!

I just read T.D. Jakes’ post on facebook where he says: “We must learn to accept the calling God has given us. We must also learn to be comfortable with who we are and appreciate our uniqueness. God will not reward us for completing another man’s task. He only rewards us for completing the task that He has appointed us to do. Get a clear understanding of what God has called you to do. Stay in your lane and find value in your part in God’s ultimate plan.” What T.D. Jakes said just confirmed that I need to stay in my lane and focus on what God has put on my heart to do. I admit I have wandered from time to time and lost my focus. I have found there is a peace that comes when I am doing what I know God has called me to do. I’ve also found that when I am trying to decide which way to go or struggling in choosing between two alternatives, one of the options will give me a greater peace, so most likely the option that brings me peace is probably God's will. “The fruit of righteousnes

4/20/11 I am sitting here in the peace and quiet of the morning reflecting on my thoughts during my morning worship and time with the Lord.  Reflecting on doors opened and not dwelling on doors closed. Look ahead , He says to me, it was time to move you forward. Leave that which is to be left behind. Move forward. Have you lost your zeal? Will you abandon your first love? What will you give for my sake? Are you ready? It's time. Something feels different today. I see more change coming. I am eager to see what wonders this day will bring. Determined to stay focused and avoid distractions. I will keep my mind stayed on the Lord. Making the decision to take better care of myself so that I can continue to be useful to God for the sake of His Kingdom. Seeking the Lord to help me have a healthier and happier attitude. Looking to Him on how I can be a bigger, better blessing. Reflecting on writing that will glorify God– what I can share to spread hope and encouragement. I am