.: Still Trusting :.

Wow, what a journey this year has been...

A year ago, I found myself struggling with a lot of things.



*Trust*--in God, in myself, in family, in men.
*Sex*--I fell short of my commitment to abstain
*Love*--of myself and who I've become, to others, from others
*Commitment*--to God, to my calling, relationships

A lot of the issues I never shared with anyone. I just went on as though there were no real issues. I actually believed that a lot of the issues would just disappear and I would not have to make any changes within my life or within myself in order for things to go right. Foolish Mortal

It took a while but there were number of nights that I cried, and prayed...Nights that I had to be alone with just me and God. During this time, I watched as relationships crumbled...and others grew strong...I watched as things within me transformed...My spiritual life transformed...

I realized that in order to get where I needed to be, that I had to take a lot of necessary steps and let God lead me. These are all things I already knew, but I wasn't actively practicing.

back in early 06, I made a commitment to abstain from sex until I was in a committed relationship. During that time I dated a few men, but because they couldn't get down with my choice to remain abstinent, they had to float on...In October 09 I slipped made a mistake, but I quickly learned from it and changed my vow from abstinence to celibacy...

Many even now don't understand why I made the decision that I did. I hear so many comments "You'll never find a man that will wait" "You're crazy" "Do you really think a man will be faithful" And that's fine because one thing I will never do is compromise my morals and values for the sake of a man, or society...So I'm sticking to my guns!

With that said, I know that it means, I will be in my single season right now...and that's fine...But don't get me wrong, this is not a lifestyle for everyone, and I would never force my view points on anyone..This is the life I've chosen...You choose yours and live yours...

I'm gonna keep the faith that God is preparing someone just for me...that not only understands my life choices but also respects it more importantly. So I will continue to wait patiently for my day...

:: uoy deen I ::

Its sad to say but my heart can't seem to let go
Holding on to distant memories that haunt me
I try to erase but the mark you left is permanent
Etched deep within
I try to let go
But something keeps hold to the love birthed from our souls
I need you

I need you to remind me of why I left
Remind me of why the sleepless nights are better than the warm days kissed by your embrace
Remind me of why my hearts break outweighs the souls intake of real love
Remind me of why it is better to have a love lost than no love at all
And I need you

I need you to forgive me for foolishly believing that a life without you was better for me
Forgive me for selfishly deciding that a WE was no longer needed to make my soul happy
I need you

I need you to go with me
I need you to go back in time to the place where I left our love behind
Help me find it
Help me find me again
Cause in this time apart I lost myself
Tried to fill voids with useless boys that wanted nothing more than a quick hit
And that's why I need you

I need you to save me
Take me back to the place of butterfly kisses
Take me back to the scent of honey suckles on a Spring Day
I need you

I need you to fill me
Let your love overflow within me
Cause I just want to go back to the nights that I spent staring into your eyes
I just want to go back to the nights where my cries were of passion and not sadness
I want to go back to the time when I love you meant just that
I just want to spend time with you
Sit on the porch sippin tea
Reminiscin on all the memories
I want to play Hide N' seek
Play Tag in the rain and let you catch me
Cause you have managed to assure me that true love does exist
And my heart can't resist the desire to have you

And I want you

I need you

I crave you

The fact is...

I love you

Devotion for 9/28/11 How's your relationship with God?

Good Morning folks...Hope you've had a productive week. I've had some crazy days this week but nothing I can't handle...Here's the devotion for the day

Today's Topic: How's your relationship with God
Scripture Text: John 5:30

"I do not seek My own will but the of the Father who sent me"

The relationship Jesus had with His Father is the kind of relationship that He wants you to have with him. Three things describe that relationship. For today, let's look at Intimacy

Jesus said, "The Father loves the Son and shows him all he does" John 5:20 you interact with many people throughout the course of your day, but you only share your heart with those you trust, and with whom you have a close relationship. So, ask yourself this questions, "How close are you to God right now?" Are you close enough to hear God when he speaks to you? Close enough to know when you've said or done something which has grieved him? Cloe enough to feel the warmth of his presence? The truth is, you are as close to God right now as you desire to be, decide to be, and discipline yourself to be. Nothing is born unless there is first an act of intimacy between two people, and intimacy is based on one word: desire How much do you desire God?

David said, "O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you" Psalms 63:1

Do you desire His house? "They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink fromyour river of delights" Psalms 36:8

Do you desire his Word? "I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread" Job 23:12

We will continue with this lesson in to tomorrow...Be Blessed Folks!

Love me some you

:: LA ::

Today's Lesson: It's not yours to fight

Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening Folks,

In light of yesterday's tragic events, I'd first like to send up a prayer. This prayer is not only for the family of Troy Davis, it's also for those who currently have family members and friends who are in jail, on death row, or have been executed, whether innocent or guilty. Amen


"Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord."
Romans 12:19

I thought I would touch on this issue because as I sat to reflect on yesterday's happenings and after reading posts throughout the media, this verse came to mind. I know that we have all been in a situation where we feel like someone has wronged us in some way or another. Our first instinct is to retaliate. We want to pay someone back for the wrong they did, and the hurt and pain they have caused us. Though easier said than done, God says "Vengeance is mine, I will repay" It gives us the freedom to walk away from a tough situation with the assurance that God will handle the situation. This keeps us from harming others, ourselves, and beginning a continuous trend of tit for tat. What good does it do any of us to continue to fuss and fight back and forth...building up anger within, causing strife and pain within ourselves and even within those close to us.

Here's the reality of God's wrath: the wrath of God is God’s settled anger toward sin expressed in the repayment of suitable vengeance on the guilty sinner. So why not let him fight your battles?

How many times have you been in a situation where you've done wrong to someone and the next thing you know, something went wrong in your life. It could be something as simple as playing a trick on a friend, and you turn around and trip over something or run in to something causing some type of physical harm or pain to yourself? I know it's happened to me...I learned a long time ago that nothing and no one here on Earth is worth more to me than my relationship with Christ, and my ticket to heaven. Don't set yourself up by trying to win a fight that God has already said he has under control. What you do here on Earth, you'll have to answer for when you get to heaven. Is it really worth it?

We may not agree with everything that Man does here on Earth, but rest assured that God is watching, and when Man tries to play God, God will handle it.

Those who fought to execute Troy Davis, and executed all those in the past who have been wrongfully accused, they have to live wit that every day for the rest of their lives. That internal struggle alone is punishment enough. The question is, what will they have to say when they get to those pearly gates? The question is, what are we going to do NOW so that this doesn't happen again?

I encourage you all to read Troy Davis' last letter to the people...--> http://redantliberationarmy.wordpress.com/2011/09/11/to-all-a-message-from-troy-anthony-davis/ It is a testament of faith and trust in God. I was inspired and encouraged and I hope you are too.

Let God fight your battles....That's my rant for the day...Stay positive, stay knowledgeable, stay informed...we owe to ourselves and the generations to follow...

Be Blessed Family!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 9/20/11 Whom He Loves, He Chastens

Good Morning Folks! Happy Rainy Tuesday!!! I pray that everyone is well. Sorry about yesterday...work has me swamped but I couldn't let another day pass without sending out a devotion. So here we go...This is from the devotion I read from Joyce Meyers

Today's Topic: Whom God loves, He Chastens
Scripture text: Hebrews 12:6

For the Lord corrects and disciplines everyone whom He loves, and He punishes, even scourges, every son whom He accepts and welcomes to His heart and cherishes.
—Hebrews 12:6

When we need correction—and there are times when we all need it—I believe it is the Lord's first desire to correct us Himself. Whom the Lord loves, He chastens. God's correction or chastisement is not a bad thing; it is always and ultimately only for our good.

The fact that it works toward our good does not mean it always feels good or that it is something we enjoy immediately: "For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness—in conformity to God's will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God]." (Hebrews 12:11)

Correction is probably one of the most difficult things for most of us to receive, especially when it comes through another person. Even if we have problems, we don't want others to know we have them. I believe God prefers to correct us privately; but if we won't accept His correction or if we don't know how to allow Him to correct us privately, He will correct us publicly, using whatever source He needs to use. We may not always like the source God chooses to use, but it is wisdom to accept cor¬rection in order to avoid "going around the mountain one more time" (see Deuteronomy 2:3).

Be Blessed Family! I'll chat with you all soon!

Peace and Love,

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 9/15/11 Answer the Door

Good Morning Folks!!!

Joel & Victoria are on it this morning!! Keep reading after the devotion...



Answer the Door


TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“...Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning”
(Psalm 30:5, NKJV)

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria

When you wake up each morning, God sends you a special delivery of joy. It’s like it comes knocking at the door of your heart every day. The problem is that some people never answer the door. It’s right there, month after month, year after year saying, “Come on! Let me in! You can be happy! You can cheer up! You can enjoy your life!” The way to answer the door is to get up and choose an attitude of faith and expectancy by declaring that “today is going to be a good day.” When you start the day like that, you are choosing to receive the gift of joy that God sent to you.

Today, make up your mind to answer the door to joy! Get up every morning and say, “Father, thank You for another beautiful day. I’m going to be happy. I’m going to enjoy this day because You are faithful. I’m going to brighten someone else’s life. I am choosing to receive Your gift of joy and passing it on to others because I love You, and I know that I am called for Your purposes!”

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father, thank You for the gift of joy every single morning. I choose right now to set my focus and heart on You. Help me, by Your Holy Spirit, to put You first each and every day so that I can know Your love and joy in everything I do in Jesus’ name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen





I woke up this morning to my door, opened it and God was standing there telling me to come on through. Thank you Lord for Revelation in my time of need!!! If you see your door, go ahead and answer it...I guarantee what's on the other side will be exactly what you need. Enjoy Fam! Love Y'all...Whoo I'm hype this morning :)

God is soooooo good!

Peace and Blessings!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 9/14/11 A heart that forgives

Good Morning Folks! Happy Wednesday to you all.

Today's Topic: A heart that forgives
Scripture Text: Psalms 130:4

"But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you."

This morning I woke up with the song "A heart that forgives" by Kevin Lavar http://youtu.be/iUV5T9JIJZ0 on my mind and heart. The last few days I've really had to face some things about myself. In asking God for forgiveness I hadn't forgiven myself or some others for things that I had done and they had done to me. I thought I had let it go but there are things I have been holding on to. I've been holding a grudge against people because they claimed to be a friend and in instant, had turned on me. And as I think about the verse that says "But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you." I said to myself, "How can I truly serve God, if I can't forgive like he forgives me" If I want to be more Christ-like, a part of that is knowing how to forgive, and doing just that.

So how do I let go? The grudge has tainted relationships, kept me from building others because I can't let go. I want to let it go! As the song plays in the background and tears form in my eyes, I'm reminded of these words, 1 Peter 5:7 "Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." So God, on today, I let it go! I'm turning it over to you. I know that I can cast my cares upon you and that you will help me through this.

So what about you? Are there people that you haven't forgiven. The one thing that I have learned about forgiveness is that we don't forgive solely for the benefit of the one who wronged us. Forgiveness is for us too. It's how we find peace within a rough situation. How do you forgive through a difficult situation? Through faith...Surely if Christ can forgive those who crucified him, then we can forgive too!

So my prayer on today is that God forgives me and that he gives me the heart to forgive others and for me to forgive myself. By Faith I believe it will be done. So today God, I release the anger, the grudge, the unwillingness to forgive, over to you. I pray that you will give me heart that forgives.

And if I have ever wronged any of you, I ask for your forgiveness...In Jesus name...

I love you all and I'm praying for you...

:: LA ::

Gossip Girl Season 4 on DVD

Summer vacations are always a blast. In Season 4, ep. 1 Belles de Jour, Serena and Blair enjoy their summer vacation in Paris trying to take their minds off of home. When Serena and Blair take this lavish trip to Paris, they experience the food, culture, fashion, and even romance! Blair meets a French royal that wants to sweep her off her feet, gets into a major spat with Serena, and even bumps into her ex, Chuck. Trips are always full of excitement and let downs.

SO where's your dream vacation to?

Me? I'd love to explore Greece. The architecture alone is enough to pull me in...


The blue water...there's just something so peaceful about this country. I absolutely LOVE Greek food! Feta makes everything betta :) So to be able to indulge in traditional, authentic Greek food would be awesome. Plus, I heard the Greek men are gorgeous! To get away and to ride on a scooter and learn their culture and history, that's my dream vacation. I love places where I can not only relax, but I can learn something too. Who knows, maybe I'll meet my Prince in Greece too, just like Blair!

Too busy for a summer vacation? Join Serena and Blair in Paris with Season 4 of Gossip Girl




“I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Gossip Girl Season Four on DVD."

Daily Devotion for 9/12/11 It happens in stages

Good Afternoon Everyone! Happy Monday :) I hope that everyone had a wonderful weekend. I just want to send out a huge thank you to all of you who joined with me in prayer on Friday Afternoon. He heard our cries and instantly he smiled on us, evident by the sun that shone so bright for the rest of the week and weekend.

Today's Topic: It happens in stages
Scripture Text: Mark 4:28

"First the blade, then the head, after that the full grain."

Are you waiting on a promise from God to be fulfilled? Observe these words of Jesus: "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come. (Mark 4:26-29) You have to go through certain stages before you receive that which God has promised you.

The "I don't know" stage: This is when the seed is in the ground. The harvest production is up to God entirely. But God's word is assuring so believe him for it!

The "Blade" stage: A tiny blade blowing in the breeze. It is enough to encourage you and let you know that the answer is on the way!

The "Head" stage: It starts to look like what you prayed for. It's something that you hopefully have prayed over it, that's the water. You use God's word to fertilize it and you protect it from any negative force that may try and uproot it.

Finally, The "full grain" stage: This is when God says "Put in the sickle, because your harvest has come". At this point it is crucial to recognize your harvest and begin to reap it. No matter what stage you are at today, stand on God's promise and keep trusting Him. He will not disappoint you!.

Peace and Love Family

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 9/9/11 Let us Pray

Good Morning Everyone! For those of you who have never received a Daily Devotion Email from me, or read this blog, there's a purpose and reason behind it today...

I'd like to send out a petition to all of you and ask that you send it out to your friends and family as well. Post it on twitter and facebook.

Today is a perfect day for Corporate Prayer.




I'd like everyone to break what they are doing at 1 p.m. and go in to prayer. God has really been moving and trying to show us some things these last couple of weeks and we all need to be alert and hear from him. In the course of a week and a half, we here in the DMV have dealt with an earthquake, Hurricane, Tropical Depression, Tornadoes, and most recently, flooding. You don't think God is trying to tell us something? I was speaking with a friend of mine in ministry and he was talking about how God is now preaching the sermons. How real is that?

There have been a number of deaths contributed to this weather and now we are under a huge security alert with the anniversary of 9/11 approaching. I'm not worried about a thing though because like the word says in 2 Timothy 1:7 "God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind" When we stir up these gifts, there's nothing that we can't get through. I don't operate in fear, I operate in FAITH!!

So let us all take a few minutes out of our day today at 1 p.m. and go in to prayer. Pray for our nation, our President, our area (DMV or wherever you are), our family, our friends, and ourselves. Pray for peace, security, strength and faith. I pray that you all will join me in this.

I'll be praying at 1 p.m., will you?

Peace and Love Family!

:: LA ::

Blog Post: Gossip Girl

From the first time I started watching GG, I fell in love with Serena's character. I saw a little bit of myself in her. The things she's been through, the romance...plus, I wanted her closet ;) During Season 4, she went through so many ups and downs. As usual, it always seemed like people were against her. I would hate to be in the same position as her with having to choose for love. That's one of the hardest decisions. I've been there before and the outcome was not pretty because someone always ends up getting hurt.

Its hard to choose a favorite episode...Any episode where Blair pulls off some elaborate scheme against someone is always good to me.

That's why Season 4 was so amazing!! It was full of scandal, heartbreak, break-ups, break-downs. GG touches on sooo much in this season. Do you have your copy? 22 episodes...what are you waiting for??

I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Gossip Girl Season Four on DVD.

Daily Devotion for 9/7/11 It's A New Season

Good Morning Folks...Happy Rainy Wednesday!

Today's Topic: It's a new season!
Scripture Text: Leveticus 26:4

"I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees their fruit."

It has been a very rainy season the past few weeks here in the DMV. What does it all mean? What does rain mean to you? When I was in conversation with a friend about the rain they said, "It's so depressing" I replied "No, I just see it as God washing away some things" Out with the old and in with the new. Rain plays such a significant role in the life and well being of the earth, yet we as humans have a found a way to make it be so negative. We often times forget that after every rain storm is a rainbow.

So what are you saying Leslie? What I'm saying is this. There's a reason for this rainy season. While God is washing away old things in the physical ask yourself, what is God trying to wash away within me? What is it in my life that God is trying to add a fresh anointing to? "I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees their fruit." What new things is God trying to grow in and/or through you? Don't look at this rainy season as a depressing one. Instead take the time to commune with God and find out what it is that he's trying to show you. It's a new season folks!

Think about this: God has given us all gifts and there are things that were predestined over our lives. God has given us a seed to sew but that seed can't grow without any rain. God is calling us! It's our season to sew seeds to let it rain and to watch it grow. It's a new season...God wants to start something new and he's starting with YOU. Yes YOU! So I want you to listen to the song that's attached. It's a new season...A season of prosperity, a season of blessings, a season of power...No, everything may not be good during this season but when you do that which God has asked of you, and you allow him to show up and show out....Oh how sweet it is

Isaiah 30:23
He will also send you rain for the seed you sow in the ground, and the food that comes from the land will be rich and plentiful. In that day your cattle will graze in broad meadows.

What does God need you to do in the new season?


Song of Inspiration: "It's a New Season" http://youtu.be/CgNvHDTRpV4


Be Blessed Family!

Love Always,

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 9/6/11 Your Joy Is Your Strength

Good Morning Everyone!!! Happy 1st Day of School to all my teachers and students in VA! I pray that you all have a wonderful and exciting day! Here is today's devotion...

">Today's Topic: Your Joy Is Your Strength
Scripture Text: 1 Peter 1:8

“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy”
(1 Peter 1:8, NIV)

Have you recently lost your joy? Have you recently experienced something has you wanting to give up and quit? What is it that you are allowing to take your joy away? It's time to take back that which the devil is trying to steal from you. There is a reason for every thing we go through and a reason behind every place that we are in. God knows what he is doing. So fight back! The devil is sitting by waiting for the moment to seep in and steal your joy. Don't let him! Your joy is your strength! It is the fuel you need to fight through every trial, tribulation, and circumstance that you are dealing with and going through. Be not afraid, God is always standing by...There's strength and joy in that alone.

So today, stand up and say "Devil you can't steal my joy" Your joy is your source of peace through hard times. It is what sustains you and builds you up. With joy, you can fight any battle and WIN! It's a source of healing for your mind and soul. Your joy not only strengthens you, but others around you. It's encouragement for others that may be going through. It's a light that shines so bright that others see it, and want it too.

So let go of the defeated mentality...Today is the day to get your joy back!!

Keep Fighting Friends and Family!!

I love you and I'm here for you!

Song of Encouragement: http://youtu.be/5GwOrVpudXI

"Don't be discouraged, joy comes in the morning..."

Daily Devotion for 9/1/11 Your Time Is Coming

Good Morning folks!! Today's lesson was taken from Joel Osteen's daily devotional...

Today's Topic: Your Time is Coming

Today’s Scripture: Habbakkuk 2:3

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarry, wait for it.”
(Habakkuk 2:3, KJV)

Today’s Word:

If you’ve been standing in faith for the promises of God, I want you to know today that your time is coming! The dreams and desires in your heart, the things you want to accomplish, the situations you want to see changed will happen. Don’t give up just because it has taken a long time, or just because you’ve tried and failed.

I encourage you today—get your fire back! Don’t be complacent about pursuing what God has placed in your heart. It may be taking a long time, but God is a faithful God. No matter how long it’s been, no matter how impossible it looks, if you’ll stay in faith, your time is coming. Every dream that’s in your heart, every promise that has taken root, God not only put it there, but He has every intention of bringing it to pass.

Declare today, “My time is coming...God is working behind the scenes on my behalf…I will fulfill my destiny…I will fulfill the plan God has for my life!” As you declare, expect, and wait for the appointed time, your faith will grow. Your hope will grow. And you’ll step into the destiny God has in store for you!

Prayer for Today:

Father in Heaven, I receive Your truth today and hold on to Your promises. I ask that You ignite my heart with Your holy fire so that I can pursue Your perfect plan for my life. Make my thoughts and words agreeable to Your will as I meditate on Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Be Blessed Family!!!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 8/31/11 Until

Good Morning Everyone...I had a rough start this morning but God is STILL good...

Today's Topic: Until
Scripture Text: Genesis 32:34

"[God] wrestled...with him until"

The Bible says: "Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man [the angel of the Lord]...until the breaking of the day" When God decides to deal with you He will get you alone. Notice, Jacob was "left." When surgery is required, nobody else is allowed in the operating room. Something in you must be dealt with or you won't make it. Notice also, "There wrestled a man with him until." Others may give up on you, but not God. "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." (Phillipians 1:6) "Until" Jacob becomes Israel, "Until" the deceiver becomes a prince with God, "until" you begin to walk, talk and live in such a way that everybody around you knows you've been touched by God. God's not going to let you get by with stuff He used to overlook. When you're running out of time He will wrestle with you and show you that you're wasting your life. He will wrestle with you over your careless attitudes, words and actions. He will wrestle with you over your double-mindedness and unwillingness to make a commitment. You've changed jobs, changed relationships, and changed churches; when are you going to let God plant you permanently somewhere so that you can bear fruit? There are two "untils" to this story. First, God wrestled with God until he said yes. Second, Jacob wrestled with God until He blessed him. At that point Jacob's name changed, his past ended, and the future God had in mind for him began.

Are you wrestling with God and living an "until" life?

Well family, that devotion gave me something to think about...So on that note, I've got some "Untils" to work out.

Be blessed family...

Remember I'm always here with a listening ear if you need me. Have a productive day!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 8/30/11 Deal With Your "Ishmael"

Good Morning Everyone! Happy Tuesday!!! Here we go...

Today's Topic: Dealing With Your "Ishmael"
Scripture Text: Galatians 4:30

"Cast out the bondwoman and her son"

Ishmael was born as a result of Abraham attempting to hurry up the plan of God and fulfill it through human effort. Are you doing that? We all have our "Ishmaels": a good idea that was NOT God's idea, and it can complicate your life. Maybe you're saying to your self, "Well, didn't God love Ismael too?" Yes God did love him, and blessed him too! Take a look at Genesis 17:20...But God said he would only fulfill His plan through Isaac. When you run ahead of God or try to replace His will with you will you not only suffer, but the people you love suffer too in one way or another. Spiritually speaking, when God says to you, "Cast out your bondwoman and her son" God is really saying to you that it's time to deal with your past and clean out your closet.

Like Ishmael and Isaac, sometimes your miracle and your mistake can grow together under the same roof. Things can be so bad in one area, yet so good in another. Today God may be saying to you, "Because of the destiny I have in mind for your, you've got to put this thing out of your life." It's painful letting go of something that was created by your flesh, but you have no choice.

Here are your options: You can be moved by their pleading and miss God's best. Or you can say, "As much as I love you, I love God more."

When you're willing to walk away from something you love because you love God more, that's called "The sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15). And when you offer it up to God, you position yourself to receive the fullness of His blessing in your life.

Amen?

Be Blessed Family!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 8/29/11 Your Breakthrough!

Happy Monday Everyone! We survived! God had truly been good to us over the last week. We survived an earthquake, an aftershock, and Irene!! I know I'm thankful. A tree is down in our backyard, but it fell away from the house. Another tree in the front is leaning but can be lifted back up. So I thank God for protecting us, keeping the power on for us, and just being so awesome. I pray that all is well with you all!

Today's Topic: Your Breakthrough!
Scripture Text: Micah 2:13

Today's Devotion is taken from The Daily Devotional: The Word For You Today

Are you thinking, "If I don't get a breakthrough, I'm not going to make it"? Try to understand a couple of things:

#1 Your problem is just an opportunity for God to work on your behalf: You are in a position to experience the very thing that these words speak on: "The One who breaks open the way will go up before them; they will break through the gate and go out. Their king will pass through before them, the Lord at their head." By God's grace you can prevail over your circumstances. You can rise above discouragement and the self-defeating mentality that says, "Nothing is going to change for the better." You say "But I tried and failed!" Now mark that off your list and say, "Now I know that doesn't work" Rejoice, God knows the way, and He's going before you!

#2 Before you experience a breakthrough, there's usually a shake-up: Chuck Jaeger, the World War II hero who broke the sound barrier, fractured his ribs in a horse riding accident the day before he hopped in to the cockpit and attempted to do w what had never been done with a plane before. His friends all said "You're in too much pain. Don't do it." His fears told him "Nobody's ever done it before. You won't either" At 700 miles an hour the plane began to shake violently. Then suddenly he broke through into what he described as "a great calm". That's how it is when you're about to experience your breakthrough. When everything around you starts to shake and your fear level skyrockets, you're not about to crash and burn, you're on the threshold of a breakthrough!


So hold tight fam. Stay in the race!! God is preparing you for a breakthrough experience that's bigger than you could ever imagine.

Be encouraged on today.

As always, I'm hear with a listening ear if you ever need me.

Be Blessed,

:: LA ::

Fashion Fashion Fashion!!!

Who's your favorite fashionista on GG?? Me, I'm a Serena fan. Here style is so effortless and I'm absolutely in love with her dress collection!! Who wouldn't love something this beautiful?!?!



Serena knows how to have that sexy out during the day turned out on the town wear. I'd love to raid her closet! So who's your favorite?

Step on the runway of style with the fabulous 4th season of Gossip Girl on DVD http://bit.ly/r4GTe8!

***I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Gossip Girl Season Four on DVD.***

Chuck vs Dan

Relationships play a huge role in Gossip Girl. Chuck & Blair, the show’s most popular couple, have been on-and-off throughout the Gossip Girl series. They are consistently at ends with each other, but their love seems to have no bounds. However, as the season progresses, Blair begins to have feelings for her best friend Serena’s ex, Dan. In Season 4, Ep 18, The Kids Stay in the Picture, Chuck comeshttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif to the realization that he wants to win Blair back after she and Dan share a kiss.

Chair vs Dair

Who would I love to see with Blair? If I had to choose, I'd say Chuck although this Prince in Season 4 is still winning me over. Chuck fits Blair because their personalities match. In addition, I'm such a Dan and Serena fan that I don't want anyone else for him but her. Dan and Blair seem like such the odd match. While I do believe that opposites do attract, I don't think that they would last. Dan clearly still loves Serena!!!

I think Chuck should keep fighting for Blair!!

So much relationship drama unfolds in the fourth season, available for pre-order here: http://bit.ly” /r4GTe8!

Daily Devotion for 7/19/11 Empowered by God

Good Morning Folks...I'm tired, but makin it...Here's today's devotion, short and sweet!

Today's Topic: Empowered for a purpose
Scripture Text: Isaiah 6:8

"Who will go for us?"

There are two things we need to understand:

#1 Borrowed beliefs have no power: What good does it do to "borrow" the beliefs of someone else? You should have a personal encounter with God to know and understand who He is. Otherwise, your life will have no impact. After they'd been filled with the Holy Spirit, we read: "The apostles testified powerfully...and God's great blessing was upon them all" (Acts 4:33) Don't miss out on the things God has for you because you are too afraid to share him with others.

#2 Unused power has no value: What power has God given you that you aren't tapping into? What resources has he equipped you with that you aren't using to glorify his kingdom. You glorify him by sharing him with others. You must spend time in God's presence, building a relationship with Him, then carry His word to those hurting around you.

The power God gives you is not for storing, it is for sharing.

God has only one reason for filling you with His Spirit, that's to pour you out in service to others. Jesus said: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach...[and] heal the brokenhearted" (Luke 4:18)

God has empowered you with a purpose...so go fulfill it!

Peace and Love!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 7/18/11 God will bring you through

Happy Monday Everyone! Today's message is a positive push and a great way to start off the week!

Today's Topic: God will bring you through
Scripture Text: Acts 27:25

"I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me"

On his way to Rome, Paul and 276 others were shipwrecked. We learn three important lessons from their story:

#1 You must listen to God: If you don't you'll experience all types of heartache and loss: "Paul warned them: Men, I can see that your voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss'...But the centurion, instead of listening to what Paul said, followed the advice of the pilot and...the majority decided that we should sail' on" (Acts 27:9-12) Do you notice anything here? Remember, being in the majority does not make it right. So who are you listening to? Are you hearing God's voice? Does the "majority" know God? Are they walking by faith or by human reasoning?

#2 The purposes of God will always overcome the plans of men: God can actually make mistakes work for your good. Through this shipwreck Paul landed on Malta and introduced the Gospel to its people. So don't beat yourself up over your mistakes, or argue about who's right and who's wrong. Instead, try and see the hand of God on it.

#3 Whatever you've lost, God can restore: "[The people of Malta] honored us in many ways and when we were ready to sail, they furnished us with the supplies we needed." (Acts 28:10) Don't limit God. He will use people to bless you--haven't even met yet. Jesus said: "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom" (Luke 6:38)

Be encouraged; God will bring you through!

Love me some you!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 7/15/11 God is getting you ready

Happy Friday everyone!! I hope everyone has had a wonderful and productive week...Here's today's lesson :)

Today's Topic: God is getting you ready
Scripture Text: Luke 14:28

"No man builds without counting the cost"

Before God gives you more, He observes you with what you have. He wants to know that he can trust you. Furthermore, when He speaks a word over your life, it's like a seed; it needs time to take root and sprout. If God has planned it for you, don't get into a hurry. "Wait for it; because it will surely come" (Habbakuk 2:3) Patience develops in us the ability to stand up to the pressures that accompany blessing. Look back; aren't some of the things you've been through, the very things that have equipped you to handle what you have now? Had God given them to you sooner you couldn't have handled them, and loves you way too much to let that happen.

Think: If you're having difficulty handling criticism from a few people, how would do if God made you pastor or company president? Hmmm Are you ready to pay the price? And more importantly, are able to pay it? The more God gives you, the more he holds you responsible for. Jesus said: "No man builds without counting the cost." Sometimes we want things because others have them. You say you want a husband and children, but are you ready to start living sacrificially? You say you need a wife, but are you ready to "give yourself for her" (Ephesians 5:25)

Whatever you're going through today, there's great peace in knowing that nothing the enemy does can preempt God's plan. So, "Don't be impatient for the Lord to act! Keep traveling steadily along his pathway and in due season he will honor you with every blessing." (Psalms 37:34)

So think about the things that YOU THINK you should have right now. You may not be ready to receive it/them. Wait on the Lord. There's a reason for everything. God designed it that way so trust and wait on him!

Rejoice! God is getting you ready!

Song of Inspiration: "Wait on the Lord" Fred Hammond
http://youtu.be/4wcdY2v5Kio

Love y'all

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 7/14/11 Blessing Comes By Association

Good Afternoon Everyone! Here's today's devotion

Today's Topic: Blessing Comes by Association
Scripture Text: Genesis 30:27

"The Lord has blessed me for your sake"

There is a principle in the Bible you need to learn if you are to enjoy God's best in your life: Blessing comes by association! The Bible says: "He who walks with wise men will be wise" (Proverbs 13:20) The story of Israel entering the promised land teaches us that we can keep company with people like Joshua and Caleb and go in and possess it, or hang around with the other ten spies who believed it couldn't be done and die in the wilderness. When Joseph entered Potiphar's house, he brought great blessings with him. When he went to Pharaoh's palace, the entire nation prospered. When Jacob wanted to return home to his own family, Laban, his father -in-law, said, "Please stay...for I have learned by experience that the Lord has blessed me for your sake."

The Phillipian Church had a long partnership with Paul in spreading the Gospel. They supported him financially and he ministered to them spiritually. He writes: "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now" (Phillipians 1:3-5) And what was their reward? Paul says: "All of you share in God's grace with me" (Phillipians 1:7) This word "grace" simply means "all of God you'll ever nee, for every situation you'll ever face." How wonderful!

Paul got it from Jesus, and the Phillipians got it from Paul. Learn to recognize those walk in the blessing of God and get as close to them as you can. Blessing comes by association!

Thought of the day: So who's in your close circle?

God is in the blessing business!

Love ya!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 7/13/11 Start Praying!

Good Morning Folks! Hope your day has been going well...Here's today's devotion

Today's Topic: Start Praying!
Scripture Text: Hebrews 11:7

"Noah, warned by God...[saved] his household"

Are you close enough to God to hear His warnings when danger approaches? Noah was, and saved his family as a result. Are you close enough to your family for them to have confidence in what God has spoken to you? You can change the direction of your family without argument or discussion-through prayer. Your loved ones need to be sheltered under the covering of YOUR prayer life. If you don't have one, get down on your knees and say, "Lord, teach me to pray" (Luke 11:1) We are emotionally overwhelmed and spiritually depleted because we haven't learned the power of prayer. The lack of it has left us weak and anxious. We blindly make decisions for our businesses, our relationships and our ministries without taking time to talk it over with God.

The story of Noah teaches that you can't prepare for trouble-without warning from God. That means staying close to him and hearing what He has to say. you can do great things after you've prayed, but you can do nothing of eternal value until you've prayed. "If my people, which are called by name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14) God promises to intervene on behalf of the person who prays in His will. "If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us-whatever we ask-we know that we have what we asked of him." (1 John 5:14-15)

So how's your prayer life? Are there some things you need to go to God for? If you seek knowledge, understanding, peace, clarity, pray to God. Ask Him to make things plain...He is able to do exceeding abundantly above everything we could ever ahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifsk or think.

Do you need a blessing? Increase? Try the Prayer of Jabez: 'Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain.' (1 Chronicles 4:9-10)

Song of Encouragement: Bless me/Prayer of Jabez (Donald Lawrence)
http://youtu.be/bp5smhDBGH4

Try God today!

Love you all!!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 7/7/11 Removing the barriers

Hey Folks...I know it's afternoon. Better late than never! Hope everyone has had a productive day thus far...

Today's Topic: Removing the barriers
Scripture Text: James 2:8-9

"If indeed you [really] fulfill the royal Law in accordance with the Scripture, You shall love your neighbor as [you love] yourself, you do well. But if you show servile regard (prejudice, favoritism) for people, you commit sin and are rebuked and convicted by the Law as violators and offenders." James 2:8-9 AMP

Thoughts for Today

Most of us tend to prejudge people on the basis of how they dress, what their family members are like, stereotypes built by the media of particular ethnic groups, and on many other superficial and erroneous grounds.

There is a danger in rejecting or misjudging someone because they are different from us. First of all, the Bible tells us thatprejudice is a sin, one that blocks our ability to love others as we should.

We could even miss a blessing from God by rejecting strangers due to prejudice. This was the mistake that the people of Jesus' time on earth made when they rejected him as the promised Messiah and King. Because Jesus did not come in the way they expected, they crucified him.

We can also miss an opportunity to bless others—maybe even an opportunity to help them find Jesus—when we allow these invisible walls of prejudice—even subtle ones—to build.

Consider this …

Ask God to help you see the walls you have built and to begin removing those barriers between you and others. Ask him to help you begin to look on the inside and see people as he does. Only then can the love of Jesus flow freely through you to everyone he brings your way.

Prayer

Father, I do want the love of Jesus to flow freely through me to every person. Forgive me for sometimes blocking this flow by judging others by outward appearances. Help me see each individual as you do and respond to them with your love. In Jesus' name …
Have a blessed afternoon/evening!

Peace and Love,

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 7/6/11 Entangled in sin

Today's Topic: Entangled in Sin
Scripture Text: Psalms 40:2

[The Lord] drew me up from the desolate pit, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure

AS a child I loved to spend long summer days running barefoot in our backyard. Sometimes briars would take over sections of the yard; and because of my sensitive feet, I chose to frolic elsewhere.

One day, I attempted to cross one of the briar patches. I tiptoed and hopped around, trying to avoid the thorns and thistles. After a few moments, I realized that I had made it only to the middle of the briar patch. My tender toes and I were surrounded. I felt trapped and afraid. Then I did the only thing I knew to do. I cried out, "Daddy!" Soon, I saw my father running through the backyard toward me. He picked me up and set my feet back on the soft grass.

Like me approaching that briar patch, we tiptoe around sin only to find ourselves suddenly entangled, with no way out. Fortunately, we have a loving father who hears our cry. God reaches down, pulls us out of the briars of sin, and sets our feet on the right path.

Mitzi C. Smith (South Carolina, USA)

Prayer

Thank you, God, for saving us. We pray in gratitude, saying, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."* Amen.

Prayer Focus

Those who are entangled in sin

Daily Devotion for 7/5/11 Awesome Love

There is a strong chance that I may have to get them taken out and the recovery time as an adult is a lot different from a child. It's been a rough 2 weeks but God has been keeping me.

Here's today's devotion:

Today's Topic: Awesome Love
Scripture Text: Mark1:10

"As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove."

SUMMER storms on Florida's west coast can be intense and frightening. As scary as they may be, I still feel a curious sense of wonder as I observe these storms approaching. Seeing dark clouds angrily churning just before a deluge begins is a scene of beauty to me. Such a display is testimony to the awesome power of the One who created weather.

I imagine something similar when I think of the day at the Jordan River when Jesus was baptized. The scripture says that heaven was "torn open." This wasn't a gentle parting; rather, it was a powerful display to announce the anointing of God's Son, Jesus.

And yet what followed was a tender statement of love from a father to a son: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased" (Mark 1:11). This same God who opened the heavens that day also reaches down to us in love. God is the all-powerful Lord who tenderly loves us and seeks our love in return. How can we resist or reject a love that is so awesomely, and yet gently, offered?

Michael J. Reynolds (Florida, USA)
Prayer
Kind Father, thank you for your amazing, undeserved, and compelling love. Amen.


Prayer Focus

Those who feel unlovable


Have a blessed day!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/21/11 Tidal Reminder

Good Morning folks! Happy Tuesday.

Today's Topic: Tidal Reminder

Scripture Text: Hebrews 13:8

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
-Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)

THE back porch of a cabin we rent for holiday looks across a tidal creek lined by colorful houses and boats of all shapes and sizes. Each morning we wake to a new view, according to the state of the tide. Sometimes the water laps at the bright, sea-grass islands and reflects the jetties and vividly painted mooring buoys. At other times the water recedes, leaving boats stranded at odd angles on the shell-spattered mud. The reflections are confined to a ribbon of water snaking down the middle of the creek.

I live in a town far from the sea. But on holiday, I am reminded of the constant change of tides, flowing in and out twice a day, altering the scenery hour by hour, varying according to the changes of the tides. Behind the changes, the moon drives the steady rhythm, reliable and unstoppable. Each day is the same, yet each day is different.

This truth causes me to think of God. How wonderful that the God we worship is unchanging, "yesterday and today and forever"! God's love is reliable and unstoppable. Yet it is also "new every morning." Each time we open our eyes to a new day, the possibilities God offers us are endless and always fresh.

Liz Howden (Cheshire, England)

Prayer
Creator of goodness and beauty, in each new day, encourage us by your faithfulness and delight us by the constant surprises you bring. Amen.

Thought for the Day
God has surprises in store for us every day.


Prayer Focus

Those working in coastal industries
Have a blessed day!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/20/11 What's the rush?

Good Morning Everyone. I received this devotion this morning from a fellow reader...Enjoy!

What's the Rush
by Joyce Meyer - posted June 20, 2011

To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter or purpose under heaven.
—Ecclesiastes 3:1

Much of the world is in a hurry, always rushing, yet very few people even know where they are going in life. If we want to be at peace with ourselves and enjoy life, we must stop rushing all the time. People rush to get to yet another event that has no real meaning for them or that they really don't even want to attend. Hurry is the pace of the twenty-first century. Rushing has become a disease of epidemic proportions.We hurry so much, we finally come to the place where we cannot slow down.

I can remember the days when I worked so hard and hurried so much that even if I took a vacation, it was almost over by the time I geared down enough to rest. Hurry was definitely one of the "peace stealers" in my life and still can be, if I do not stay alert to its pressure. Life is too precious to rush through it. I find at times that a day has gone by in a blur. At the conclusion of it, I know I was very busy all day, yet I cannot really remem¬ber enjoying much, if any, of it. I have committed to learn to do things in God's rhythm, not the world's pace.

Jesus was never in a hurry when He was here on earth, and God is absolutely not in a hurry now. Ecclesiastes 3:1 states, "there is a season, and a time for every matter or purpose under heaven." We should let each thing in our lives have its season and realize we can enjoy that season without rushing into the next one.


Be Blessed

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/17/11 The Anchor Holds

Happy Friday People!!!

Today's Topic: The Anchor Holds

Scripture Text: Hebrew 6:19

"We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul."

I huddled in a corner, tears flowing. Though the marks on my body were new, they were not unfamiliar. For years I had prayed for my husband, a Christian, and for an end to the beatings he inflicted in his rages. God had been my anchor as I grew up, and I wondered why God had not intervened to stop the abuse.

Earlier that evening as I left to attend a Christian concert, my husband had told me not to come back. When I returned, he threw me into a wall. This time, to my amazement, through my tears the words "I want a divorce" fell out of my mouth. And as they did, I felt the chains of fear and oppression lift. God whispered to me that I would never be hurt again by this man. That night, my Anchor held.

Until that very moment, I never understood how much God loved me or the vastness of God's grace. God does not intend for any of us to be oppressed and abused, and God wanted a safe harbor for me. I am a living example of the words from the song, "the anchor holds, though the ship is battered." I was battered, and I thank God for being my steadfast and true anchor. God helped me to leave the raging sea of abuse and led me to the freedom Christ offers and wants for each of us.

Prayer
O God, free us from all that oppresses us. Amen.

Thought for the Day
God calls us from bondage to freedom and fullness of life.

Prayer Focus

Those living with abuse
Have a blessed, safe and wonderful weekend :)

Love y'all

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/16/11 Do you know why you're living

Good Morning folks...My prayer today is that the Lord will keep you in perfect peace. Here's today's devotion

Today's Topic: Do you know why you're living
Scripture Text: John 18:37

"For this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world."

Jesus knew exactly why He lived. "For this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world to testify to the truth." That's what He thought about, prayed about, planned for, worked toward, sacrificed for, died and rose again for, and finally accomplished. By fulfilling his destiny He changed the world forever. So, do you know your destiny? What are you doing to achieve it? "We are...created...to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10) Does that sound like a life of aimless wandering with no known destination? the Bible says: "A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps" (Proverbs 16:9) Plan well, but always stay open to God's direction. "All the days ordained for me were written in you book before one of them came to be." (Psalms 139:16) God's plan for your life was set before you were a twinkle in your parents' eyes! If you fail to follow His path you'll miss His best for your life. The Bible is full of examples of those who crashed and burned at some point. King Saul is a great example.

Recalling it, David, his successor, prayed:

#1 "I desire to do your will" (Psalms 40:8): Your desires are the driving forces in life, so make sure you're in harmony with God.
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
#2 "Teach me to do your will" (Psalms 143:10) When it comes to doing God's will, the Psalmist acknowledged he needed God's help. You do too.


Song of Inspiration: http://youtu.be/UrXnAWvA3iI

I am praying for you today!

Peace and Love Family

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/15/11 Living without regret

Good Afternoon Folks! Got so caught up that I forgot I hadn't sent the Daily Devotion. Thanks goes out to one of the loyal readers who reminded me :)

Today's Topic: Living Without Regret
Scripture Text: Acts 20:24

"That I may finish my race with joy"

Imagine your life is over and you're standing in front of a big DVD player. God inserts a disc with your name labeled on it. The label reads "What might have been" it details everything He wanted to accomplish through you: How He wanted to bless you financially, but you were afraid to sow into his kingdom and be generous with others. How He wanted to use your gifts, but you lacked the discipline to develop them and the courage to use them. how He gave you great relationships, but you weren't truthful and loving enough to maintain them. How He longed to reproduce in you the character of Christ, but you refused to deal with your sin, resist temptation, and pursue spiritual growth. The poet said, "Of all the sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these-it might have been."

But there's a bright side. As long as you are still breathing, you can close the gap between what is and what can be. So stop and ask yourself, "what can I do now to live without regrets later?" Here's what:

Start renewing your mind each day with God's Word instead of filling it with junk. Use your talents and your treasures to build His kingdom instead of your own. If you do, you'll discover that God gives "seed to the sower" (2Corinthians 9:10) The more seed you sow, the more seed God will give you. And how about making time to disciple somebody? That way your legacy will be greater than your lifespan. It's not too late to become the person you might have been-if you're willing to start today!

Wow! How awesome is that word? So think about what you can do so that when you leave this earth, you can say "My living was not in vain"

Be Blessed Family!

:: LA ::

What would you do?

“I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Supernatural: The Complete Second Season on Blu-ray."

What would you do if you ever came face to face with a monster?

What would I do? After I unfreeze myself I'd probably take off running in panic. Since I'm not a runner I probably wouldn't make it too far. Lol! So I'd just have to stop turn around and just say "take me now!" I'm not gonna keep running unless I know I can out run them. Of course this is all, only if I ever get the chance to run. I'm more than sure that I'll probably freeze in my place as soon as I see the monster.

I've had a ton of dreams where I've been chased by monsters and everything went in slow motion. I sure hope that doesn't happen in real life!!!!

Order your copy of Supernatural: The Complete Second Season on Blu-ray here today: http://bit.ly/k3Lbpz !

I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Supernatural: The Complete Second Season on Blu-ray."

Daily Devotion for 6/14/11 How to avoid burnout

Good morning everyone!! I need this lesson for myself...I'm getting to that point where stress is attempting to overtake me. Here's today's lesson...

Today's Topic: How to avoid burnout
Scripture Text: Exodus 3:2

"The bush burned...yet was not consumed"

Do you remember the story of the burning bush? It burned, but it didn't burn out. There are some folks that used to burn for God, and have now burned out. They were loyal workers in church for years and then disappeared. Burnout, has been described as, "fatigue brought about by devotion to a cause that failed to produce the expected reward."

So how can we avoid burnout?

#1 Seek God's Input: "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault" (James 1:5) Did you forget that God is an expert? Go ahead and consult him

#2 Realign your priorities: Too many irons in the fire mean none of them gets adequate attention. Learn to say no. Your family will appreciate it, even when others don't

#3 Practice the art of Thanksgiving: Get into the habit of nurturing, and noticing the unspectacular good things that happen to you

#4 Learn the art of physical relaxation: take about 15-20 min out of the end of your day and spend it relaxing and stretching in a comfortable chair. Coax your body and mind to relax. Try meditation...

A popular chant I like to say to clear my mind is: Be still and know that I am God

#5 Exercise: (I need to get back at it) It's one of the best antibiotics for burnout. Pick something that works best for you! Everyone is not supposed to be on that P90x or Taebo. Take a nice relaxing walk...

#6 Develop your own relief devices: Read a good book...go for a run.

#7 Find someone to share with: Shutting yourself off increases the problem rather than solving it. Find someone you trust to talk with.

I hope this helps someone that may feel like they are under a lot of stress/pressure. I know it is helping me. I was just in conversation with a friend about needing a mental break. There are some things I need to realign in my life, and I need to take more time for me. I was doing and as soon as I stopped, it was like a downward spiral...I pray this helps someone on today.

Have a blessed Tuesday Everyone!!!

Please keep the city of Baltimore in your prayers. A friend of mine is soliciting prayers for their city. Within a two week period during the month of May, 30 people were slain. One of which was a 12 year old boy. So pray for someone today.

I am praying for you!

Peace and Love

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/10/11 The Clock Is Ticking

Good Morning Folks! Happy Friday! Here is today's devotion!


Today's Topic: The Clock Is Ticking

Scripture Text: Psalms 31:14-15

I trust in you, O Lord . . . My times are in your hands.

I seem to spend a great deal of my day fighting against the clock. There are always more things to be done than hours in the day to do them. Sleeping, nurturing my marriage, and taking time with each of my children can't be done quickly. And it seems that before I've blinked, another day has gone. Often the tasks don't seem worth the time they consume. Little time seems to be left to do the things I really want to do.

I never expected life to look like this. As a teenager and young adult, I prayed that I wouldn't be average. I wanted to be different and to change the world. I didn't expect life to involve rushing around washing socks.

How relieved I am, therefore, to discover that God can and does make the ordinary extraordinary. Day by day, as I follow God's paths -- as I trust and obey -- I become more content. I've seen that however mundane some tasks may seem, small acts can have greater impact than anyone could have imagined. Who knows, for instance, how my children might change the world for God? What I do know is that God goes ahead of me and walks beside me. God is not restricted or pressured by clocks or calendars, and my times are in God's hands.

Jenny Sanders (Hampshire, England)
Prayer
Dear Father God, help us to know your peace as we walk through the days you have ordained for us. Amen.

Thought for the Day
When we obey in trust, God can use our small actions to accomplish much good.


Prayer Focus

Those who feel harried

Have a great and safe weekend. Sunday is Pentecost Sunday as well as Children's Day at Shiloh come on out and enjoy a wonderful service.

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 6/7/11 Sowing Tears

Good Morning Folks. First I'd like to send out a sincere apology for negating my duty of sending out the daily devotion. Life should not be so busy that I forget to do the things God asks of me. I'm back! Here's today's devotion...

Today's Topic: Sowing Tears

Scripture Text: Psalms 126:5-6

May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.

THIS year my youngest daughter received for her birthday a kit with all she needed to grow flowers. On a sunny day in June we filled the pot with soil, planted the seeds according to the instructions, and set it on our deck. Over the coming weeks we faithfully watered the plants, anticipating a colorful display of marigolds, cosmos, and zinnias. Slowly, we saw the transition from seed to seedling to bud to flower. It's hard to fathom how such a rich tapestry of color could come from such an unspectacular beginning. Seeds that were no more than gray flecks were the genesis of a rainbow of color -- green, blue, red, orange, and yellow.

The flowers reminded me of the words of Psalm 126 -- that our sorrows can be the seeds of joy, an un-wonderful beginning that brings a wonderful crop. The psalmist sings of God's redemption in bringing back captives and restoring their fortunes, taking them out of their captivity and deprivation. In sadness can be seeds that God will cultivate to grow a rainbow of joy.

Philip Huber (New York, USA)

Prayer
Dear God of all comfort, help us to rest in the hope that you will bring joy out of our sorrow. Amen.


Thought for the Day
God can transform sorrow to joy.

Prayer Focus
Those celebrating birthdays today

Have a blessed day everyone!!!


Love me some you!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 5/24/11 Lord, help us to see

Good Morning folks! Rough start for me this morning but I'm still thankful! I hope everyone's day has been blessed thus far. Here we go...

Today's Topic: Lord Help Us To See
Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 1:26

"Take a good look...at who you were when you got called"

Jesus didn't see people as losers, but as potential winners who'd lost their ways. He "was moved with compassion for them" (Mark 6:34) He saw them through God's eyes, not as weeds, but as potential roses. Thankfully his perception of us is much better than ours. When others might see a woman with five failed marriages, He saw a restored sinner who could reach others in Samaria. When others might see a blind man; He envisioned someone who could see. They saw a cripple; He pictured a man picking up his mat and walking away. There are so many parables within the bible that show how Jesus will see something great in man, when man only sees failure.

Paul says, "Think of what you were when you were called. Not many...were wise by human standards; not many were influential...[or] of noble birth" (1 Corinthians 1:26) Face it, you weren't so wonderful before God turned you around, so stop judging others from your limited perspective and try to see them as God saw you. Work to bring out the best in them. Introduce them to the One Who came to bring "great joy to all the people" (Luke 2:10)-no exceptions!


Have a great day everyone! his one definitely has me thinking about some relationships I have.

Be Blessed.

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 5/23/11 Do you need direction?

Good Morning Folks! Happy Monday to you! Aren't you glad you made it through the weekend?!
Here's today's devotion...

Today's Topic: Do you need direction?
Scripture Text: Psalms 1:6

"The Lord watches over the path of the godly"

God will speak to you:

#1 Through relationships: Sometimes He will give you direct revelation, but often He will speak to you through relationships. His word says: "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you" (Hebrews 13:7) So who do you have in your life that speaks to you? Without good input you will live unprotected and undirected.

#2 Through your gifts: "A man's gift makes room for him" (Proverbs 18:16) When God is directing your steps you won't need to kick the door open or force your way in. Your gift will bring a solution and meet a need; therefore, you'll be welcomed, value and rewarded.

#3 Through your thoughts: "we have the mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16) When our minds are renewed by his Word and line up with His will, God actually thinks through us. Think about what advantages we have because of this!

#4 Through open doors: Paul wrote, "For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries" (1Corinthians 16:9) God will open doors for you, but you must remember that with every opportunity He gives, challenges come too. That's what builds your faith and strengthens you for the future. There are blessings that God uses as a test to see how we'll handle it. Don't abuse the gifts God gives you...There's so much he has in store with you but he needs you to take care of what he's already given you.

#5 Through a "word" confirmation: "Thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it" (Isaiah 30:21) Not the word "behind" This word comes after you obey God, letting you know you've made a good decision and that you're on the right track. Yes you can be led by God. His Word says: "The Lord watches over the path of the Godly."

Are you on the right track? Or do you need some assistance from God? Maybe there are some things you need to go to him about. It's okay to ask for help. If you think God is not being clear on something, ask him for a little more help. Ask him to open your ears to hear what he has for you. Ask him to open your eyes so you can see HIS path clearly. He said he will make it plain. Just be ye also ready for the things he has in store.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

May God Bless each of you. Remember I'm always here if you need me.

Be Blessed...

For those interested, I'm singing back up for Tanya Dallas Lewis, a local Gospel Artist, on June 2nd at Blues Alley. Contact me for details. God is good!

Love Y'all

:: LA ::

Song of Inspiration: Be Transformed http://youtu.be/Raa6BusuafE

Daily Devotion for 5/20/11 Let Jesus Solve Your Problem

Good Morning Folks. Happy Friday!!!

Today's Topic: Let Jesus Solve Your Problem
Scripture Text: John 2:3

"The mother of Jesus said...They have no wine"

In biblical times offering wine to your guests at a wedding was an expected courtesy. It was also a sign of respect, so running out of it would have been a social disaster. But observe how Mary handled it. Instead of looking for someone to blame, or making excuses, she took her problem to Jesus. That's always your best move. "O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear. All because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer. " Jesus told the servants to fill the jars with water and give some to the headwaiter. When he tasted it, the Bible says "The water had become wine" (John 2:9) But notice, it happened after they had obeyed Jesus, not before. At a particularly contentious church board meeting when one member suggested they pray about the problem, another responded, "Has it come to that?"

There are basically two reasons we make prayer or last resort instead of our first:

#1 We like to think we are able to solve our own problems: How often do we try to solve things on our own because we think we know what's best?

#2 We feel insignificant and think, "It's okay for Mary to ask Jesus; she's His mother, but He's got bigger problems to solve than mine.": Know that all of your problems are important to God. He delights in you. See (Psalms 18:19)

You're never too big or too small to ask your heavenly Father for help. Just take your cue from Mary: identify the problem, bring it to Jesus, do what He tells you, and watch Him work it out.

Amen?

Love Ya'll!

Have a great weekend everyone. Be Blessed!


:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 5/19/11 Wildflowers and Weeds

Good Morning folks. Happy Thursday

Today's Topic: Wildflowers and Weeds

Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 1:22-31

"God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong."

MY wife loves to gather wildflowers and weeds along roadsides and in abandoned fields to make bouquets. There is something about these "lilies of the field" that brings joy and creates beauty. Unlike in a garden where beautiful flowers are a result of toil, wildflowers survive with only God's care, and they are often surprising in their beauty, abundance, and fragrance.

Even the wildflowers we call weeds can have great beauty. God apparently enjoys picking human "weeds," each one beautiful in its own way and capable of the miraculous when combined in a bouquet pleasing to God. The genealogy of Jesus reported in Matthew 1:1-16 certainly contains people whom some would consider weeds: Rahab, a prostitute; Ruth, a Moabite foreigner; and David, an adulterer. Jesus also seemed to pick weeds as he assembled his disciples from among fishermen, tax collectors, and political zealots. However, the combination of all these "weeds" carried the message of grace and salvation throughout the world.

Jerry T. Lang (Michigan, USA)
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for using us just as we are. Help us join with others as imperfect as ourselves to work in your kingdom, as we pray, "Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."* Amen.

Thought for the Day
We do not have to be perfect to be used by God.

Prayer Focus
Perfectionists

Have a blessed day!

Love me some you!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 5/18/11 Growing Stronger Through Change Part IV

Good Morning Folks...Happy Wednesday! I pray that everyone's week has been blessed thus far. This is the final portion of this series. I pray that it has helped at least one person. Let's get to it!

Today's Topic: Growing Stronger Through Change Part IV
Scripture Text: Hebrews 12:1

"Let us strip off every weight that...trips us up."

The Psalmist said: "I'm awake all night-not a wink of sleep; I can't even say what's bothering me" (Psalms 77:4) Is anyone going through that right now? Is this a recurring situation for you? If so, here are a few things to consider changing:

#1 Let go of what no longer works: There are trade-offs. For everything you gain, you usually have to give something up. The trouble is, we do not like giving up what we do well. [I went through this myself when God told me to let go of dancing to focus on ministry through song] so we focus on "doing things right", end up not doing the right things, and wonder why we don't succeed. When you season changes, be open to a new strategy. Letting go of what doesn't work anymore frees you up to focus on what does. And more importantly, to focus on what God wants you to do!

#2 Don't let change paralyze you: In new situations our first inclination is to slow down, play it safe and buy ourselves time. But often we just fall further behind. Being overly cautious makes you freeze, much like a deer in headlights. The Bible says that God "gives power to the faint, and strengthens the powerless" (Isaiah 40:29) So trust Him and move forward, instead of giving in to the impulse to just do nothing.

#3 Approach the future with confidence: Recent events have us all on edge, but as a child of God you can say "I can lie down and sleep soundly because you, Lord, will keep me safe (Psalms 4:8) The truth is, you can't build a decent argument for living in fear; so trust God, adjust to reality, and live each day to the fullest!


Alright folks! That's it for now...I pray this has helped someone...

Remember I'm always here if you need me.

Pray for me, I need to be feeling much better within the next week. God Bless!

Love me some you!

:: LA ::

Daily Devotion for 5/17/11 Growing Stronger Through Change Part III

Good Morning Folks...I've been out sick the last few days so I haven't been on my game. But I'm almost at 100% Pray for me! I'd like to continue with the series of Growing stronger through Change. Here we go!

Today's Topic: Growing Stronger Through Change Part III
Scripture Text: Psalms 31:7

"I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love"

There's an old Chinese Proverb that says: "A diamond cannot be polished without friction, and a person can't be perfected without trials." We all want to live stress free without having to work at it, but it can't be done. So:

#1 Take time each day to pray and read God's Word; it'll transform your outlook
#2 If you still look like your old passport photo, take a vacation, you need one!
#3 What goes up must come down, so cut back on caffeine and sugar!
#4 Eat right-a balanced diet isn't having a cookie in each hand! [Guess I need to get rid of those cookies my roommate just baked lol]
#5 Exercise three to five times a week for thirty minutes; it's natures magic bullet for stress
#6 Develop better time management habits: "use it or lose it"
#7 make room in your life for fun and relaxation
#8 Get eight hours of sleep when possible
#9 Maintain your sense of humor: "A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired" (Proverbs 17:22)
#10 Start counting your blessings. The Psalmists said, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits (Psalms 103.2)
#11 When you talk to yourself, say the right things. YOUR words affect you more than others
#12 Simplify your life by eliminating clutter. If you haven't used it for two years, you probably don't need it.
#13 Develop a sense of purpose by seeking God and setting personal goals
#14 Forgive; grudges are too heavy to carry: "If you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive [you] (Matthew 6:15)

We have a lot to do right. So let's get it done :)

Peace and Love Fam!

:: LA ::