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Back to School: Rebel Without A Cause

Sep7

School has begun for most students across the world so EmpowerMoments is featuring a series entitled “Back to School”.  Read each day as our writers share stories and learned lessons from their school-related experiences.  Come and get on our EmpowerMoments school bus!

Growing up I was a bit more than your average “church girl”: Sunday – Regular Service, Tuesday- Choir Practice, Wednesday- Bible Study, Thursday- Prayer Meeting, Friday – Teen Ministry, Saturday- Junior Usher Board Meeting. I could quote scripture all day and was known as the over achiever in Sunday School. I wasn’t a member of just any church. I was a member of an Apostolic (Pentecostal) church; one that had many rules and standards: zero makeup, no jewelry, and no pants for women. While I was in elementary and middle school these things were okay for me. Sure I was teased about always being in church and the fact that I never wore pants, but I believed wholeheartedly in what I was doing. Furthermore, my grandmother made me and there was no questioning of her rules.

Then came the summer of transition. I was a 14-year-old bona fide teenager and headed for high school. I started “smelling myself” and questioning this strict regimen. I began secretly changing clothes when I left home so that I could wear pants and even got some lipstick. Boys entered the picture and the late nights began. My attitude completely changed and I became resentful of the life that I was forced to live. See I grew up in the house with older brothers and male cousins and they weren’t subjected to this harsh life, so one day I decided no more. My grandmother came to wake me up for church and I responded with a loud, “I’M NOT GOING!” The blow up was big and I defiantly stood my ground letting her know that no switch, belt or any other form of correction was going to change my mind. (Of course I said all of this after being chased out of the house to the front yard.) Eventually, she decided to let it go and this was the beginning of my “emancipation” from church slavery into the street life and academic failure.

And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. (Luke 15:11-13 KJV)

Thus began my journey as the Prodigal Daughter. At the young age of 14, I made a decision to stop making church a regular part of my life and dropped all of the strict standards that I was beholden to. I began to hang out until 3:00am, go to the nightclubs and started drinking. Although I would hang out with guys, I would not have sex and I would never smoke marijuana. For some reason in all of my rebellion those things were off limits. In my own mind, my behavior was okay because this is what my brothers did, I was staying out of “real” trouble and I wasn’t pregnant. My first semester in high school was the pits. I loved school and was quite studious; however, I kept getting in minor trouble that came with major consequences. Tardies to class (from staying out late) landed me in the Student Adjustment Program (SAP). SAP was like in school suspension but this is where “bad” kids were sent: fighters, people who disrespected teachers, and low performers. This was not my crowd. I was in Honors classes and participated in extracurricular activities even with my wild ways so how did I end up there? Originally I was sent for 3 days but then I got in trouble while in the program and landed an extra 40 days. WHAT?!! I got out of the program and was sent back AGAIN. It was difficult to keep up with my class work especially since this high school material was so new. I received my first set of BAD grades. To this day I never forget those grades because they made the difference in me graduating in the top ten in my class and coming in at #13. I felt like I was stuck in a downward spiral but at the same time I was hesitant to give up my new life.

Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6 KJV)

One day I overheard my grandmother mentioning to someone that she was contemplating sending me to reform school. Wait a minute! In my eyes reform school meant jail and I, my friends, was not jail material! It was as if a light bulb went off. God showed me how my rebellious living could shape the path of my life. I thought about my brothers, who unfortunately had served time in the juvenile detention center and jail, and I was determined that would not be my life. I was in the valley of decision regarding my life. I could learn the lessons from them without experiencing the path they were on.

While it would be years before I became a regular attendee at church and I never quite went back to the strict religious standards, I picked my Bible back up and began to study His word. I practiced self-discipline. I dove into my schoolwork, got heavily involved in school and community activities where I could make a real difference and joined athletic teams. That experience my freshman year in high school shaped so many others. It helped me avoid situations later in life. I was determined that I would not be a failure and disappoint the woman who worked so hard to provide for me or my heavenly Father who protected me while I was in the streets. I would no longer be a “rebel without a cause.”

Dear Daddy,

I am sorry that my rebellious living brought so much pain to those who gave their all to support me.  Thank You for saving me from myself. If it wasn’t for Your mercy and Your grace I would not be the person I am today. Lord, I am grateful for the training that I received as a child, the mentors that You sent me and the epiphany You gave me regarding my life. God, I ask that You help me share my story and be a beacon of light for other young women. Thank You for taking the time to come after this one lost sheep. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, today I EMPOWER you to look back over your journey and be grateful that you are not where you could have been. If you are on a path that leads to destruction, I urge you to consider your ways and ask God to reveal the best path for your life. Lastly, I want you to think about one young woman that you know who could use your guidance. Make a decision today to get involved and be a beacon of light for her. 

As you look back over your life, were you ever a rebel without a cause? Share your story with us.

Read a related EmpowerMoment:  The Night We Almost Died

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Ms. Chancee` Lundy lives in Washington, DC and is an entrepreneur as she is the co-owner of Nspiregreen, LLC, an environmental consulting firm. She is also a dedicated daughter, sister, friend and community servant. She has used her gift of public speaking to lead workshops across the globe speaking to crowds as large as 10,000 people. Her guiding scriptures this week are Philippians 4:11-13 “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Holding On Too Tight!

Aug29

A while back, I was thinking about the lessons and messages that I have been receiving about surrendering. At that very moment a movie scene popped up in my mind.  It was a scene from a comedy/drama/romance movie called Ghost (1990).  In this particular scene, con-artist Oda Mae (played by Whoopi Goldberg) is instructed by Sam (Patrick Swayze) to give a FOUR MILLION DOLLAR check to nuns because Sam wants to make sure the money is used for good and out of the hands of his friend/colleague Carl.

With clinched teeth, a forced smile, and a tight grip, Oda Mae has a hard time giving up that check.  I like to give, but I probably would have a hard time releasing that check too.  Four million dollars!  Watching this scene is hilarious, but the Holy Spirit helped me to realize that Oda Mae responds like many of us, and particularly me, with our lives.

If you cling to your life, you will lose it, and if you let your life go, you will save it.  (Luke 17:33 NLT) Maybe we grip our lives because we want to continue holding onto the control of our lives and do things our way.  Maybe it is because we want to obey and surrender only when it is convenient. Perhaps we think that if we surrender, we are going to lose our lives physically.  It is possible that we believe that God doesn’t want us to have joy and fulfillment or just maybe we think life is satisfactory the way it is.  Even more, we are probably focused on pursuing worldly things or we lack patience and trust in God to do what He says and has proven He can do.  In any event, we are afraid to let go and give control to God.

I must remember that when God created me, He didn’t intend for me to live independent of Him. Therefore, in order to move forward in my Christian walk, I must fully SURRENDER!

I have been gripping my life like Oda Mae gripped that check.  I have been gripping everything that God wanted control over or wanted me to release.  I have been gripping my many plans, my fears, my money, my concerns of what others think about me, my dating/love life (or lack thereof) and my need to do everything and be everything for everyone.  I have even given Him areas of my life and subsequently I have taken them back.  I’d say I believe and then the next minute I don’t believe.  Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him.  But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”   Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:21-24 NIV)

Since I have been alerted to my lack of surrender to God, the Holy Spirit has helped me loosen my grip on my life and those areas that I gave God little to no access.  I have also surrendered plans that were of good intentions because it wasn’t what God wanted me to do at the time.  I have finally severed the last means of communication between me and my ex-boyfriend/first love; I am going to trust in God to bring a God-fearing, handsome man along just right for me.  I have learned that I have to seek God’s counsel in everything I do.  I have also learned that I can’t be everything for everyone.  It is okay to take the ‘S’ (Superwoman) off my chest unless that ‘S’ stands for SURRENDER (everything to God).

Through the testimonies of Hannah and Ruth, I am reminded that when you trust God and let go, you gain so much more!  Hannah, who yearned and prayed fervently for a child, gave her son back to the Lord. She promised God that if He gave her a son she would do this so she took him to the priest and allowed the priest to raise and ready him for his destiny. (1 Samuel 1:1 – 2:10)  She made him a coat and visited him every year but she had to let go.  Ruth left her family to go with Naomi, her deceased husband’s mother.  She surrendered to God and a new course for her life.  Consequently, she married again, gave birth to her first child, and was able to also bless Naomi—her mother-in-law.

Surrendering my life doesn’t necessarily mean I lose it physically.  Instead I will gain my life, the life God designed for me all along with peace, fulfillment, and deeper intimacy with God.  Surrendering my life doesn’t just benefit me, it benefits others too.  Oda Mae didn’t get that money but she was able to help bless the nuns and their charity as well as help Sam unite with the love of his life, Molly, and save her from danger.

Dear Daddy,

Thank You for pruning me, defining my character, and setting me apart.  It is not easy to go through this process, nor is it easy to render control of my life to You.  But please help me let go!  Help me to trust You and remember that my life is no longer my own.  I am here to glorify You.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, today I EMPOWER you to trust the Lord with your lives.  After all, He knew you before you were in your mothers’ wombs.  He created you and knows your purposes.  He has your best interest at heart and will never fail you.  So, don’t worry about your children.  Put them in God’s hands.  Release that person with forgiveness and God’s Love.  Let go of that relationship He doesn’t approve of.  Seek Him before you make plans.  Let go of always needing control.  God is qualified to manage your life more than you.  When you let go, you’ll experience God’s liberty and peace!

Ladies, what areas of your life do you need to surrender to God? Share your story with us.

Read a related EmpowerMoment: Surrender It

Please watch the $4 Million scene from Ghost!

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Ms. Tannika Moore loves the Lord and loves to write!  Besides writing poetry or editing written work for family and friends, she currently works for NEIU Educational Talent Search program.  She help assists Chicago public high school students with their reading, writing, etc. as well as helps them consider and prepare for college.  She, like many of her students, is the first of her family to graduate from college.  She earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in English-Professional & Technical Writing.  God, the Creator and Great Father has also created her to be a Compassion Person and Encourager and so she loves to encourage people according to God’s Word and help them to see, think and become better thru her support, actions and writing.  Her favorite scripture comes from Philippians 1:6, For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you shall perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Lose Control!

Jul30

My post for this week was a bit of a struggle. I have been wrestling through a lot of things and had ideas for a few different things I wanted to share, but every time I started to type, I would be compelled to stop and start again. I even considered recycling a post I wrote for another blog and just as I put the finishing touches on it, I realized it wasn’t what God wanted me to share either. So I sat still and had a little conversation with God.

Then the post began to flow without issue.

The experience that I had with writing this post is one that has been recurring in my life. You see for me, the first half of 2012 had been going well. I set some goals for weight loss and my finances and I was on point to reach them much sooner than I expected. I had been praying for a new opportunity and recently got a new job with a nice pay increase and shorter commute. While all this was going on, I was diligently and consciously working on building my relationship with God and putting Him first in all things, allowing Him to have TOTAL control. I had peace and I was happy, but in the back of my mind, I felt like I was missing something.

Then I decided to take some of the control back and things took a turn for the worst.

My diet and exercise regimen began to suffer and I could not make sense of my finances. I got weak when tragedy hit my family and started drinking when I should have been praying. My boys were away so my house was peaceful—but I had no peace of mind. And I was starting to run. I was starting to feel like I had gotten so far away from God in such a short period of time that I might as well continue to run from Him to save myself the embarrassment of walking back to Him with my head hung low. I had let the enemy creep back into my thoughts.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?As it is written: For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future,nor any powers,neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of Godthat is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35-39 NIV)

In a little over a month, I almost allowed myself to forfeit all of the work that I have done and progress that I have made in every area of my life–physical, mental, financial, spiritual–simply because I thought I needed to be in control. I thought, “I’m doing all of this ‘work,’ and not really getting to ‘play’ because God is in control.” No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:11 NIV)

I am reminded that allowing God to have control over my life is the only way that I will be at my best.

Dear Daddy,

Thank You for reminding that Your way is best no matter what. Please continue to conform me and my need to constantly be in control. Help me lose control to You a little more each and every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, today I EMPOWER you to LOSE CONTROL to God! Embrace Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” and take your hands off the steering wheel.

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Ms. Tiffany Huff is the devoted mother of two boys, a blogger, lover of food and travel, and aspiring entrepreneur with a passion for helping others live out their purposes. She is looking forward to growing in her walk and honoring God through sharing her EmpowerMoments. One of her meditation scriptures is Romans 12:2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

A Fool For You

Jun19

June is Black Music Month! To celebrate, each of our EmpowerMoments will be based on Black music for the entire month. This includes Black songwriters, producers or performers. Stay tuned as we use various genres of Black music to tell our stories and exemplify the beauty of God’s love! Happy Black Music Month! Dance as if no one is watching.

Fool:  Silly or stupid person

Silly:  having or showing little sense or judgment

Stupid:  lacking normal intelligence

I have been characterized as having been a fool several times in my life.  I have had or showed little sense in relationships.  I have exercised poor judgement in financial matters and have lacked normal intelligence in my decision making.  More often than not, my foolish behavior has led to heartache, financial crisis, sorrow, and regret.  I’m pretty sure I’m not alone.  Many of us have at one time been a fool for someone or something.

“…We are fools for Christ, but you are wise in Christ…” (1st. Corinthians 4:10a NIV)

The Bible calls us to be fools for Christ.  When we are a fool for someone or something, we put our destiny in their hands.  We totally surrender our will to its will. In a few of my relationships, I have been the fool.  I went against my better judgment or what I knew to be right for someone else.  When I made that decision, it was with the hope they would do what I wanted or needed in return, having faith it would happen but having no guarantee.  I was always left hurt and disappointed.  People will always disappoint you when you surrender all to them because they are NOT GOD!!   God never called us to be fools for people or things because He knew our many flaws.

“…We are weak but you are strong.  You are honored, we are dishonored!” (1st Corinthians 4:10b NIV)

We are to be fools for Christ because only when we surrender all, is His glory revealed.  It is safe to depend on God for everything.  Unlike man, He will never disappoint you.  Unlike man, God will never break your heart, lead you to financial ruin, shame, regret, or condemnation.

“…But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise…” (1st Corinthians 1:27 NIV)

What the world considers to be foolish: total forgiveness, unconditional love, showing mercy to your enemies, tithing and giving etc.  God uses to bless those who choose to turn away from the so-called “wisdom” of this world and be considered “fools” for Christ.

Dear Daddy,

Thank You for giving me an opportunity to be totally dependent on you.  Thank you for never disappointing me. Thank You that everything works together for my good, because I love You and am called according to Your purpose.  Lord, please forgive me for the times I put others before You and chose earthly wisdom over divine wisdom.  Forgive me for the times I’ve been a fool for others and hurt You.  Help me to be consistent in my complete surrender and dependence on You.  I pray that Your perfect will be done in every area of my life.  I fully submit to Your guidance and Your direction. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, today I EMPOWER you to be a “fool” for Christ.  Strive to give to Him without exception, love Him without condition, submit to Him without question EVERY DAY!  The joy and peace you have will far outweigh any goosebumps or feeling you ever have had for a man or anything else.

As you transition from being a fool for other people to being a fool for Christ enjoy “A Fool For You” by Cee Lo Green featuring Melanie Fiona:

 

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 Ms. Katrina Richard is an up and coming professional residing in Chicago, Illinois.  She strives to incorporate knowledge and life-skills to teenagers in her profession as a high school history teacher.  Katrina is very active in her church community where she serves in the prayer ministry as well as in the nursery.  She has a passion for serving in the lesser known areas of ministry because she believes every facet of ministry is important to kingdom building and spiritual development of the believers. Her favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

My Dad Has a Son

May15

If anyone says, “I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. 1 John 4:20 NIV

Whenever someone asks about my siblings, I always proudly say that I have an older sister and “my Dad has a son.”  I can’t tell you when I decided to incorporate this phrase into my repertoire of colloquialisms but I know it was many years ago.  Interestingly, I never saw anything wrong with referring to my “half-brother” this way until about a month ago.

At the end of March, his mother passed away and instantly I began praying for him like never before. CORRECTION — I had NEVER prayed for him before I received this news.  I questioned why all of sudden he was an intricate part of my quiet time with Jesus but I kept on.  I could only imagine the hurt and pain that he was feeling at that time so I continued to pray intensely for him but I could not bring myself to call.

After his mother’s memorial I continued to pray for his strength until the enemy started taunting me the way he used to when I was a little girl.  Envy and angry began to consume me at the mere thought that he was able to have my father around all the time, while I was restricted to these sporadic visits.  So at that moment I convinced myself that I didn’t have to call!

By mid-April, God had stepped in and revealed to me that He wanted me to be a better sister.  At first I felt offended because anyone who knows me is aware that I will do anything for my “SISSY” but then I remembered that I also have a BROTHER!!   For most of my life, I have struggled with the appropriate way to accept what society refers to as my “half-brother” but there are plenty of stories in the Bible where siblings with different parents acknowledged each other and some even were able to have healthy, functioning relationships. 

In Genesis, chapters 16 and 17, the Bible discusses Ishmael and Isaac, both sons of Abraham.  One was born to Hagar, the slave woman, and the latter born to Sarah.  Additionally, 2 Samuel 13 tells the story of David’s son Absalom, his sister Tamar, and their half-brother Amnon and 1 Kings 1 describes the relationship of Adonijah and King Solomon, both born to different mothers. Lastly, the most shocking “sibling-ship” that I discovered was that of Jesus. He had many brothers and sisters. (See Mark 6:3 and Matthew 13:55)  Although, each of the above scriptures references depicted different family dynamics (some very troubling), one thing remained the same… they were BROTHERS and SISTERS.    

Now, ladies do understand that I am still working on this.  I have yet to call him, but I do understand why it SO important that I do so.  It is not up to me to determine where I should allow my brother to fit in to my family tree, rather I should just accept the leaf where he hangs and embrace him.  Over the years, I have found that not one family will look the same but as long as LOVE is the common denominator, then the dynamics of the family usually don’t matter.  This one call is going to close an entry gate on the enemy that he has been using all of my life. Only God knows what will come of my obedience…

Dear Daddy,

Lord, please forgive me for the times that I didn’t embrace my family. Help me to realize that my justifications are just excuses not to do the right thing.  I can’t distinguish between the two on my own, but instead I welcome Your insight whole-heartedly.  Please heal any broken family ties. Help me to always be aware of the enemy’s areas of opportunities in my life that I might counteract it with more of Your Word. Open my heart to receive more of You as I continue on my Christian journey. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Sisters in Christ, I EMPOWER you embrace your family, regardless of past situations and circumstances that have occurred. I EMPOWER you to stay sensitive to the Word of God in your life.  Once He gives you an order, act on it!

P.S. I will keep you updated when I finally make the call… I have set a deadline and it will get done!

Is there someone who you need to make “the call” to? Don’t hesistate, do it today! Share your triumphant moment so that others may overcome!

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 Ms. Latasha Sampson is an accomplished writer who is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Human Resources Management.  She resides in Nashville, Tennessee where she is a faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. She serves tirelessly with the Evangelism Team there.  Latasha also works at Mt. Zion as a member of the Administrative Support Staff. Her favorite scripture is “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn.” Isaiah 54:17

Sandpaper

May10

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12 NIV

One of my hobbies includes furniture restoration. I was speaking to my mother the other day about restoring a dining room set she gave me. I expressed to her my insecurities of staining or painting it because of a failed attempt to restore an old desk I found some years ago. When I found the desk, it was thrown on the curb, but I saw potential. I could see where it would go in my living room and how it would serve as a functional piece in my home. I dragged it home, had my husband patch up a hole in the back and we prepped it with primer. After the primer dried we painted it a rich ebony color and I was ecstatic about it. A few months later the paint began to wear off. The area of the desk we use and rely on the most is worn and the old part of the desk is showing. Explaining this to her I said, “Mom you know what? I forgot to sand it!” Her reply was, “The condition of what’s underneath will determine the longevity of your finish.”

I was slapped with an EMPOWERMOMENT! God found me on the side of the road and saw potential! He saw where I fit into His kingdom, and how I would serve a functional place in His home. But He has to sand me first…OUCH!

The purpose of sanding, especially reclaimed or unfinished wood (insert shout here), is to prepare the foundation to withstand and absorb the permanent stain. Sanding removes the entire old finish, and sometimes there are layers and layers of old stuff. Sand paper has various grades. Some grades are not as rough and they are used to sand areas that do not require much smoothing. Other grades are heavy duty and are very abrasive, but their purpose is to smooth out the tough patches. They are used when the wood is rough or “resistant” to softer grades.

My friend, if you resist God’s pruning, instruction, chastisement, denials (yes, there are some), and delays, He can’t sand you for the proper finish. A finish that will be long-term. Are you wondering why He denied your opportunity for that car or home purchase, why He removed that man, why He did not allow you to be employed at a certain place, or why He has even placed you in a “desert” period in your life? God is sanding you! Peter reminds us in his first letter, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” I Peter 5:10 NIV. He knows that you are struggling and you can ask for comfort during your sanding process, but that will NOT eliminate the sanding.

For some of us it requires the heavy duty sand paper to ensure our foundation is smooth. I often wonder why God would keep dealing with me in certain areas such as my mouth. Well this area requires much “sanding” because it is a high traffic area, the area that He will use to His glory the most! So if it is not sanded properly, I will not have a sustained “finish.” I will continue to revert to murdering souls with my words opposed to speaking life.

I’ve found that simple furniture only requires a quick sanding. In my case that would be something like helping the needy. I have a giving heart so being obedient in this area is easier for me. But furniture with intricate detail, which will serve multiple purposes, and will ultimately bring life into my home, may require days and long hours of sanding. This would be self-control of my mouth!

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:4 NIV. In the end, the stain, the permanent finish, and the final product have a lifelong glow but it must be sanded first…OUCH!

Dear Daddy,

I come to You with honesty, sharing with You that sanding hurts. It’s abrasive and it makes me cry at night, feel lonely, and sometimes I can’t even see the light at the end of the tunnel. But there is more truth, I know that this pain is temporary and that You are growing and preparing me for the finish! You are preparing me to handle those blessings that You have for me. God I ask that while I’m in the process, help me to hear, accept, and act on the things that You will have for me to learn. Thank You God for being faithful, being a comforter, and a sustainer of peace. For I know that all things will work out for my good (Romans 8:28). In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Girlfriend, I EMPOWER you not to resist your sanding, but rest in the truth of knowing that God knows your desires. Delight yourself in Him by being content in the place He has you, by praising Him in the pit, and worshipping Him because of who He is, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Has God taken you through a sanding? Encourage one another by sharing one of your sanding experiences below.

Meditate on James Chapter 1

Read a related Empowermoment: The Olive Press Series

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As a professional, Mrs. Khalilah Burton is a College Biology Instructor. She is also currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Higher Ed and Community College Leadership. Khalilah is passionate about her faith journey and uses this key scripture as her inspiration: “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 KJV) She and her husband serve as Co-Service leaders and Co-Group leaders of SustainedLove, which supports marriage get-a-ways from Family Life. Khalilah also serves as a guest speaker and panelist for various events for women and Christian empowerment. Khalilah resides in Millbrook, Alabama with her wonderful husband Donald Burton, Jr. and their energetic four-year old daughter. They attend Vaughn Forest Church.  Check out Khalilah’s Christian weight loss blog here.

The Illusion of a Self-Made Woman

Apr9

LORD, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us. (Isaiah 26:14 NIV)

I am educated, have a career, decently paid, live in a safe neighborhood and drive a nice car. You could say that I am living the “American Dream”. Everything that everyone sees currently is all a blessing from the Lord. If people were to really understand the struggles, the sleepless nights and late night prayers crying out to my Heavenly Father, they would understand that this dream came with a mighty high price tag. Even with all the struggles that I endured, they now seem like a distant memory and I at times get caught up in the material blessings that God has given me. In fact, at times I can begin to believe that this wonderful life I have been given is due to all of my hard work. I fall under an illusion that I am a self-made woman.

Being a self-made woman means that I have not submitted myself, my thoughts and desires unto God. This life I am living is about me, my needs and wants. The illusion that I have built this life for myself can lead me to make decisions and then ask God for His input after I have already made my decision.

I must admit that for the past few weeks I have not been in prayer or studying the Word like I once had. Although, I believe that I love God and have a heart for Him, I was so busy making my own decisions that I wasn’t respecting His authority in my life.

Then like Paul I was given a thorn in my flesh. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. (II Corinthians 12:7 NIV)

Last week was one of the most challenging weeks I have had in quite some time. In fact my well put together world crumbled rapidly in a 24 hour period. I had no idea what decision to make and I was at a loss. Things that seemed so important just the day before paled in comparison to what I was facing. Could I actually deal with the situation? The answer was no, in my own power and strength I couldn’t. It was due to this “thorn” that for the first time in weeks I reached out to my Father in deep and sincere prayer. I knew that there was nothing humanly possible that could be done and I humbled my haughty heart to the Lord. I was in prayer like never before and made plans to begin fasting.

I thank God, for His perfect timing and orchestrated “thorns” in my life. Those are instances of Him calling me back to His loving arms. Do not allow thorns to harden your heart, allow them to draw you closer to Him. He might not remove the challenge but He can give you the strength and peace to endure it.  Allow the “thorns” to remind you that EVERYTHING that you have is from God and not from your own strength.

Dear Daddy,

Thank You so much for blessing me with material items, but help me to remember that things are not my source. Help nothing, not even my own desires, separate me from the path and plan that You have destined for my life. Help me to remember that I am made to worship You.  Help me to allow You to humble me when needed.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, I EMPOWER you to let God be ruler over every decision that you make. Do not allow things to become idols in your life.

Read a related EmpowerMoment: The Thorn in My Side

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Ms. Renee` N. Chaffin is a single mother who has a heart for helping those less fortunate. She has been active in the non-profit sector, whether through volunteerism or professionally, for the past six years.  She is passionate about sharing the love of God, her testimony and empowering people to discover their true potential that was bestowed on them by King of the Universe. Renee` is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration. While on her pursuit of higher education, she is on a seven year journey to challenge God to do ‘exceedingly and abundantly above all she can imagine’ in seven areas over the next seven years. Check out her journey at
http://radical7even.wordpress.com
. Her favorite scripture is I Peter 5:6: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

Let Go of the Life Calendar

Apr3

When I began graduate school in August 2010, I knew for a fact that I would be graduating before the close of 2012.  As I progressed through each class, earning one “A” after the next, I was even more certain that I was going to finish in December 2012 with honors.  As I listened to all the favorable comments about my future from my professors, I was sure that I would be in my cap and gown before Christmas 2012. 

“However, no one knows the day or the hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.” (Matthew 24:36 NLT)

A few weeks ago I decided to stop by my academic advisor’s office to make sure everything was on track for my commencement at the end of the year.  She began by praising me for my 4.0 GPA, but when I switched the conversation to graduation her excitement abruptly left the building.  She nearly broke my heart when she told me that I would not complete my program until March of 2013!

As the day progressed, I continued talking to God about my feelings of defeat and anger.  My mind was at war with the thought that I had done all of this work only to miss what I considered to be my deadline.  I continued to gripe and complain until God decided to put me in my place.  He clearly stated that the reason my expected graduation was delayed was due to a lack of readiness.  “Be dressed for service and well prepared…” (Luke 12:35 NLT) I would need those extra months to get totally prepared for my future career.  God told me to stop focusing on the date, but rather focus on making sure that I am prepared for where He is getting ready to take me.  A shift in the natural realm will only be possible if I am willing to trust what He is doing in the spiritual!  “…No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1Corinthians 2:9 NLT)  

Dear Daddy,

Thank You for putting me in my place!  So often I get caught up in SELF that I forget that everything I go through is so You can get the glory.  Help me to remember that my time has NOTHING to do with Yours.  I must always remember that You know what’s best for me regardless of the circumstances.  I will no longer place emphasis on deadlines, but I will instead give You TOTAL control to change my calendar of events as You see fit.  Have Your way Daddy!  In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, I EMPOWER you to stop allowing that calendar of life to weigh you down!  Remember that if God promised it, He will deliver when you are spiritually, physically, and emotionally ready to handle it.  While you are busy counting days, God is already aware of the moment that He will allow you to receive the very thing you have asked Him for…so WAIT for it! Be Blessed! :-)

What event have you decided to erase from YOUR life calendar? Tell us about it in the comment section below!

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Ms. Latasha Sampson is an accomplished writer who is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Human Resources Management.  She resides in Nashville, Tennessee where she is a faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. She serves tirelessly with the Evangelism Team there.  Latasha also works at Mt. Zion as a member of the Administrative Support Staff. Her favorite scripture is “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn.” Isaiah 54:17

She is Me: Jael

Mar16

In honor of National Women’s History Month, EmpowerMoments is featuring a special series called ‘She is Me’.  Each writer will parallel her own life with that of a Biblical woman to enlighten and EMPOWER you. Cheers to being a WOMAN!

Covert Silent Assassin

Unlike Renee`, (see She is Me: Deborah), I desired to have a leadership role like Deborah in ministry.  Desired is probably an understatement; craved is more accurate.  I was a leader in my professional life and even in my family and personal life, so it just made sense that I would be a leader in ministry as well right? WRONG!  God not only did not elevate me, but He sent me to a church where NOBODY knew me.

After much personal struggle and attitudinal pleas to God, I finally repented and submitted to God’s will for me in the area of ministry.  This is where my life began to parallel Jael’s.  First, Jael was a tent dweller.  One major characteristic of tents are they are highly portable (easy to move from place to place). We can conclude from this that Jael lived a life in which she had to be ready to move at a moment’s notice.  Once I submitted to God, He began to teach me that I had to always be ready to act when He needed me to.

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.  Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15 NIV)

The Bible tells us that Sisera’s army was defeated.  Deborah, Barak, and the Israelite army had done their duty: “…all Sisera’s troops fell by the sword; not a man was left…Sisera, meanwhile, fled on foot to the tent of Jael…” (Judges 4:16b-17a NIV) There are many things in our lives that in large part we have been delivered from; however, residue of those things still exists in our life. God desires for our enemies to be TOTALLY defeated and in order to do that, He raises covert assassins.  Jael was one such assassin.  God has taught me that I’m not a Deborah in ministry but a Jael. 

Sisera felt comfortable going into Jael’s tent because he was familiar with her family.  “Sisera, however, fled on foot to the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite because there were friendly relations between Jabin King of Hazor and the clan of Heber the Kenite…” (Judges 4:17 NIV)  God has sent people into my life several times who were struggling with spirits I was “familiar” with in the past.  Those spirits were comfortable being around me because I was supposedly not a threat to them.

Jael invited Sisera into her tent and treated him VERY good.  Sisera was thirsty and asked for some water.  Instead of water, Jael gave him milk, giving him more than he requested. (See Judges 5:25) Jael gracefully lulled him into a false sense of security. By treating him so well, he assumed that she was on his side and that he was safe. Having a full stomach also makes a person more tired, especially after a hard day. All of this combined caused Sisera to fall asleep without too much worry about being attacked. Little did he expect an attack from the woman who was treating him so kindly.

God has allowed me to have relationships with many who come from various backgrounds, different religions, and who struggle with a range of strongholds.  God has directed me to show hospitality to them and allow them to “relax” in my presence.  “…But Jael, Heber’s wife, picked up a tent peg and a hammer and went quietly to him while he lay fast asleep, exhausted.  She drove the peg through his temple in to the ground, and he died.” (Judges 421 NIV)   However, just like Sisera, they let down their guards and become comfortable around me.  I quietly begin to PRAY and come against EVERY stronghold, cancel every assignment of the enemy and war in the spirit realm to KILL everything that is keeping them from being who God has called them to be.

My journey has taught me that everyone God has called to ministry is not supposed to be in the pulpit or even on the microphone.  God has raised some covert operatives.  My assignment is to pray.  I have learned to accept my assignment and carry it out with diligence. Jael’s obedience to God quite arguably changed the course of history for the Israelites and she is only mentioned in a few verses of the Bible. However, had she not accepted it because it wasn’t an upfront position, who knows what could’ve happened.  Sisera may have gotten away, raised another army, and went fought the Israelites again. Thank God for silent assassins!!

Dear Daddy,

Thank You for the assignment You have given me in ministry.  I understand that there are no “small parts” in ministry.  I understand that everything done in ministry is supposed to bring glory to You.  I also understand that my obedience is connected to so many other destinies.  I ask that You continue to make me sensitive to your spirit.  Help me to carry out the assignments that You give me diligently and effectively.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, today I EMPOWER you to pray and seek the Lord for what He wants you to do in ministry. Accept your assignment and start carrying it out.  There are so many that God has for us to minister to, pray for, feed, cloth, preach to, etc.  We HAVE to get on our jobs!

Today is the LAST day! Enter here for your chance to win our women’s prize pack!

Ms. Katrina Richard is an up and coming professional residing in Chicago, Illinois.  She strives to incorporate knowledge and life-skills to teenagers in her profession as a high school history teacher.  Katrina is very active in her church community where she serves in the prayer ministry as well as in the nursery.  She has a passion for serving in the lesser known areas of ministry because she believes every facet of ministry is important to kingdom building and spiritual development of the believers. Her favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

She is Me: Sarah

Mar7

In honor of National Women’s History Month, EmpowerMoments is featuring a special week-long series called ‘She is Me’.  Each writer will parallel her own life with that of a Biblical woman to enlighten and EMPOWER you. Cheers to being a WOMAN!

Busy Being God Jr.

Nearing graduation from college, I thought I had it all figured out. I was NOT moving back to Chicago, but instead I was going to make my home in the south, get a great job and start my life with my self-chosen future husband. It sounded like a wonderful plan to me, but God said, “No, if you listen to me and do it my way, I promise that I have a MUCH better plan for you.” Not really convinced that His plan was going to please me the way that mine was, I began working hard to put my plan into motion. I applied to several jobs in the southern region and began making preparations for life that my future and I would lead together. I was hell-bent on helping God out! How many of you can be honest and admit that He has promised to do some things in your life, but you couldn’t understand how what He told you was better than what you had envisioned? Or better yet, you didn’t see the evidence of the promise coming to fruition fast enough so you decided to be God Jr.? If you are afraid to admit it, I’ll show you someone who is just like me…

God promised Abraham (Abram) that his wife, Sarah (Sarai), would have a son and that from that child his descendants would be too great to number. Abraham believed God’s word; however, Sarah couldn’t imagine that at her old age she would really be able to bear a child. That was heartbreaking to her because she knew her husband really desired a son so that his offspring could inherit his kingdom. So, just like me, she set out to assist God in making things happen.

Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had not been able to bear children for him. But she had an Egyptian servant named Hagar. So Sarai said to Abram, “The LORD has prevented me from having children. Go and sleep with my servant. Perhaps I can have children through her.” And Abram agreed with Sarai’s proposal. So Sarai, Abram’s wife, took Hagar the Egyptian servant and gave her to Abram as a wife. (Genesis 16:1-3 NLT)

Sarah’s plan seemed like the perfect fix to her solution…and so did mine! She would now have a child through a surrogate mother and her husband would be satisfied. Likewise, I refused to believe that God truly wanted me back in Chicago. I wouldn’t settle for missing out on my one true love in life, so I went on several interviews with very reputable companies. Everyone was pleased with my resume` and my overall package. I was promised jobs from at least three employers. I even started searching for a permanent place to stay. I’m sure I was thinking that God should’ve been thanking me because I was helping Him out tremendously!

Oh, but my plans, just like Sarah’s, went awry! Abram had intercourse with Hagar, and she became pregnant. When she found out that she was pregnant, she became proud and despised Sarai. (Genesis 16:4 GNT) Sarah’s plan fell apart right before her eyes! Instead of carrying a child for her mistress, Hagar began to hate Sarah and wanted to keep the baby. My plans quickly unraveled too. Of the three job leads that I had been promised, each one fell through in a matter of days. I even attempted to reach my interviewer at one of the companies and I was told that no one by that name had ever worked there! I was baffled. Why was this happening to me? I knew that my plan was suitable for my life! Instead of admitting that I was trying to operate in direct opposition of God’s will, I immediately starting pointing the blame finger. As you can imagine, the recruiters from those companies were at the top of my list. Again, Sarah and I were running neck and neck! Then Sarai said to Abram, “You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my slave in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. (Genesis 16:5 NIV)

In all of our blatant disobedience and disrespect to God, He was still so gracious to the both of us. He STILL kept His promise that was made to us, even though neither of us had an ounce of faith in the words that He spoke over our lives. In efforts to sabotage a job in Chicago, I never showed up to the interview and never gave a reason why. However, God STILL kept that position for me. Even in my adamant state to hold on to a man that I just knew was my future, God STILL brought the man that He designed specifically for me into my life to become my husband. Even though Sarah chose not to cling to God in her season of barrenness and instead took matters into her own hands, He STILL blessed her with a child. “Now the LORD was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him.” (Genesis 21:1-3 NLT) Oh what a gracious and merciful God we serve! And I think I can speak for both Sarah and me when I say that God was right—His plan was much better!

Dear Daddy,

I thank You for this multi-part lesson on faith, obedience and patience. Lord, I ask that You help my unbelief. If there are areas where my faith wavers, please strengthen those places. Help me to believe You and stand on Your word, regardless of what I feel like should happen. Lord, I pray that You would turn my heart so that I yield to every command that You give me. Help me to take my hands off of situations so that You are in control. Finally, I ask that You teach me patience. I understand that the only way to learn patience is by waiting, so I ask that You give me the strength to hold out for Your promises. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Ladies, today I EMPOWER you to believe God the first time! I EMPOWER you to understand that He doesn’t need your help determining His will for your life, nor has He ordained you as God Jr.! Instead of trying to manipulate things to your suiting, I EMPOWER your faith to increase, your obedience to be automatic and your patience to strengthen.

Mrs. Kristen Harris is a wife, mother, entrepreneur and dedicated servant.  She is extremely passionate about women’s spiritual advancement, hence the founding of EmpowerMoments.  As an avid reader, Kristen enjoys reading the Bible and other non-fiction pieces. Her driving inspiration is when God says to her: “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  (Jeremiah 29:11) She currently resides outside of Chicago, Illinois with her wonderful husband and two lovely daughters where she is an active member of New Life Covenant Church.