Embracing the Power of Perseverance

Embracing the Power of Perseverance

Guest Blog Post By: Shauntel Bennett

During my high school years, I vividly remember having so many dreams and aspirations of going to college, traveling abroad, and being an actress. In my mind, it was important for me to be successful and I was determined to fight tooth and nail until I reached my destined outcome. Upon graduation, I took my first step towards attaining my dreams by enrolling in a local junior college as a musical theatre major. My first year was exciting! I was being introduced to so many gifted people, understanding the foundational layout of the drama world, embracing the theory aspects behind music…you know, learning the ropes! I was on my way it seemed. Then, in my second year, I was formally introduced to ‘The Lounge’, where students would gather between classes and, on occasion, during class. I became acquainted with a lot of bad practices and people, which became a huge struggle for me and eventually led to my losing focus of the initial pursuit and my musical scholarship.

Over the next few years, I fought an inward battle as my life seemingly spiraled out of control and became consumed with making and frivolously spending money, hanging out in clubs and bars, meanwhile, failing daily in the school of life. After about five years had passed, I found myself sitting at work one day with the question, “what happened to your fight, your will to persevere?” frequently resurfacing in my mind.

As I reflect, I am reminded of Jacob. After being left alone in Mahanaim, awaiting the time that he would meet with his brother Esau, Jacob had an encounter with God (or one of His angels J). Here’s the story:

And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob’s thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him. And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said Jacob. And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed. And Jacob asked him, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name? And he blessed him there. And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel:  for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved. (Genesis 32:24-30)

Jacob literally fought until the Lord blessed him. He didn’t give up. He pressed until God granted his request. We should adopt this same type of diligence in our daily lives. Whatever it is that God has gifted us with or whatever assignment He has given us to complete, we should stay the course, no matter the obstacles or criticism that may come our way.

We have been given the power, dominion, and authority that we need to embrace. As we journey through this life, let us remember the following scripture:

Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.(Matthew 7:7)

Having obtained my degree, actively experiencing the stage life, and embarking upon opportunities to travel, I can confirm that God is the true and everlasting source of our hope.

Be encouraged to PERSEVERE!

Shauntel Bennett

Tailor-Made Just For You: Wait On It, It's Coming..

2yrs ago I was able to resign from my job so I could stay home with my baby. I really didn't want to miss her "Baby Firsts"(mommies know what I mean). I told myself I would give myself at least a year or two before I go back to work. In my mind the transition from home to work was going to be a piece of cake. I figured I got the education and experience so how bad can it be. So, I didn't think twice about resigning. Well, six months ago I started applying for jobs online. I applied for 133 jobs. I am not exaggerating. I kept a rejection file just so I would be able to count the number of NO's I got. ( It was probably more than that, I got tired of counting)...

I made sure I only applied for jobs I really liked and not just jobs I could have for the moment. I am too old to be job hopping. I wanted to apply for companies/positions where I could grow career wise. So, yes I started applying for jobs I qualified for and jobs I didn't qualify for. I figured who needs a PHD, when you already have a Master, His name is JESUS, and He has the last word anyway, regardless of qualifications.

Out of all those rejections, I finally got a called for an interview. YES!!! your girl was so happy and relieved. Finally, somebody is at least giving me a chance to sell myself. I had 3 interviews with this company and was told in so many words I had the job. But I still had to wait for the official offer.I am getting a little anxious and antsy, but I continued to wait. I did a follow up call and letter and was told I was still being considered for the position. Well, little did I know God had other plans.

I was sitting on the throne in the bathroom when I felt an unction to pray again about this position, but differently this time. I truly believed God was going to blessed me with this position, all because I was getting anxious and tired of waiting for a job. I was at the point, I was almost willing to settle for less than God's best just to have a job right now...Does that sound familiar?

Settling for anything just to have what we don't have right now... 

But as I started to pray, I surrendered and told God if this is NOT the BEST you have for me, and if there is a position that you have tailor made just for me, please close the door. I don't want to settle just because I am tired of waiting and being rejected.

Yes, rejection hurts, but regret hurts worst...

If there's a job better for me please lead me to it, but close this door quickly. But, I also ask Him to prepare me once again for the rejection and strengthen me for the wait.

After that prayer, the same night I had a dream, and in my dream a young lady passed by a table where I was eating outside, and obviously we knew each other. It was as if she knew what I was going through with this job situation. She looked at me and said Marchelle, THEY will be calling you on May 21st. Then I woke up. I looked at my calendar on my phone and it said April 21st. So, in my mind I thought maybe I misheard what she said and that she actually said April instead of May, well I was hoping. My husband and I figured if no one calls me on April 21st, then maybe she did say May 21st, but then again, it was just a dream. Whose to say it was a prophetic dream? I am not that deep, matter of fact, I am not deep at all.

April came and gone and no call. I just knew the "THEY" in the dream was the company I was waiting for, so I continued to wait. On, Monday May 3rd, I got a phone call from guess who? Yep, they finally called me to offer me the position, yea right, no they called to let me know that they went with another candidate and the only reason I didn't get the job was because I didn't have early learning experience.. I was thinking (SERIOUSLY LADY!!! It took you 3 interviews and a long drawn out wait to figure that out, Ok, whatever you say). Honestly, I was jumping for joy. Praising God for answering my prayers. He had something better for me. Thank you Lord, for closing that door.

God close the door on Monday, and on Tuesday I got an email from a beautiful woman of God. Her spirit is amazing. She is a jewel and if you are reading this, you know who you are. She sent me a job description for an open position at an amazing company. She had no idea I was just rejected for a job a day before but God used her to send me this information. Well, to make a long story a little longer, I received a phone call for an interview on, wait for it...May 21st!!!. I guess it was prophetic, go figure. Well, I interviewed for the position, made it to the top 10 then to the top 4 finalist, and now the wait is over. I GOT THE JOB!!! Not to mention, this job is 20xs better than the first one.



So, no matter how long the wait, no matter how many rejections you face, no matter how much it hurts,  never give up on the power of God. He wants to give you the best but only if you are willing to PATIENTLY wait for it. Patiently waiting is just waiting with the right attitude, and it's easier to do this if we continue to praise God in the process.

 

 I truly believed He was getting ready to give me that job only because I was anxious and was willing to settle, but when I surrendered and allowed God to bless me the way He wanted too, He moved in my favor and it was better than the first... I do understand that when doors close in your face it can be painful. It can mess with your mind, emotions, self-esteem, self-worth and even your confidence. But just remember God knows all things. He can see what we can't. So trust Him when He closes a door because He is just tailor making a door just for you is right around the corner. It's closer than you think. Don't settle for less than God's best in every area of your life. God's timing is everything. No it doesn't feel good. Yes it hurts at time, shoot, most of the time... But the hurt evidently fades away with the new blessings that God bestows upon us.



I know it's even harder when you see doors opening for others around you. You're happy for them, but yet the human side says, when is it going to be my turn. Just stay encouraged. Keep the faith. Stay focus. So whatever it is that you are waiting for: job, spouse, college degree, house, car, direction, guidance, for a bad situation to change, etc,,,  It's coming. When you feel weak and weary, trust and depend on God for the unmerited favor and strength to withstand... You can do it. I did it, and so can you....

Who Are You? You are blessed beyond measure. You receive all that's rightfully yours without settling for anything less than God's best for you. You will walk only in the doors God has tailor made just for you.

If you enjoyed this and was encouraged please leave a comment below and let's also encourage others, by Sharing on Facebook, Google+, and any other social links you see below.

Have a blessed and Purposeful Day,
TPL😘😘😘

OBEDIENCE = ATTACKS!!! BEWARE!!! BE VERY AWARE!!!

I am sure you all already know this but I just wanted to remind you that obedience equals attacks!!! It will not always be peaches and cream when you finally make it up in your mind to obey the call God has on your life. Trust me, as soon as you step outside of your comfort zone and start doing what God has told you to do, BEWARE, BE VERY AWARE!!! it is not without a fight.

EXTRA, EXTRA read all about it...YOU WILL BE ATTACKED!!!

It's not a matter of IF, But WHEN and HOW.  Attacked in your body, your mind, your marriage, your close relationships, on your job, at school, in ministry, in your finances, with your children etc... So, however the attacks come just try to prepare yourself. I know it's hard because attacks don't play fair, no warning at all.

The devil is mad and he will use anything and anybody to discourage you to walk away from the very thing you were called to do.

Sorry, it just comes with the territory of obedience. Do we really believe that the devil is going to just sit back and freely let you do what God told you to do without interference? Yea right, ok. I wish. Living for Christ would be so much easier and simpler, don't you agree?

It's funny, as long as you were doing your same ole, same ole, everybody was fine with that. Everything was great, but as soon as lives are being changed for the better because of what God has told you to do, 

ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE!!!

The very people you thought was going to be there for you will turn on you. They may encourage you by giving mouth service but in their heart of heart it's nothing but jealousy, wickedness, envy, and strife.

It hurts deeply, heck, It hurts like hell, especially when it's the people you thought would love and support what God is doing in you and through you, but yet they turn their back on you all because of what?

• Maybe God hasn't moved in their lives yet and all of a sudden it's your fault for being obedient..
• Maybe it's because they just don't want to see you making a difference in the lives of people. (I really don't understand this one at all)
• Maybe they want the spot light, whatever that mean...Because the only person that should be in the spot light is GOD, and God only...
• Maybe God told them to do something similar to what you are doing and they weren't obedient like you...

Well, whatever the reason is: Don't apologize for what God is doing in your life. Those days are over. Pray for them, love them, and keep it moving, but please, please, DON'T APOLOGIZE FOR IT!!!

The devil is so STUPID...he hasn't learned yet that "No weapon form against us shall prosper." It may wound, leave scars, sting and even hurt like crazy. It may catch us off guard. It may sucker punch us and even knock us down for a moment or two, or three, or four...but it will not do what it was set out to do... It will NOT steal, kill, or destroy God's plans for your life.

So what do you do?

Well, what I am about to say is easier said then done, heck, even for me...but here it goes: Get up, shake yourself off and:

1. Pray, Pray and Pray some more:

Only God can mend the broken pieces. Only God can comfort you. Only God can love and support you the way you deserve. Only God can change the minds and hearts of people. Only God can heal and put you back together again, (just like humpty dumpty)smile

2. Don't fight fire with fire, but with LOVE: Lord Help me with this one PLEASE!!!

God knows that's a hard saying who can hear it:
It's especially hard when your flesh wants to lash out. When you hurt, you automatically want those who hurt you, to hurt just as much. But God...

3. Keep doing what God has told you to do, despite of...

Even if we are hurting we must still be obedient and trust God.
We can't let what's happening around us keep us bound. We must let the Lord fight our battles. Remember God is not surprised about what's happening. Usually, we're the only ones taken by surprise.

4. Lastly, PRAY, PRAY AND PRAY SOME MORE!!!

There is power in prayer. Now activate it.


Who are you?
You are stronger than your attackers. You will let the Lord fight for you. You will continue being obedient. You are a chosen vessel operating in love despite the difficulty.

Share and Comment with those who just need a reminder during these times of obedience.

Have a Blessed and Purposeful Day,
TPL 😘😘 😘

Are you "DOING" Too Much: Mary or Martha?

Luke 10:38-42

 Late, one night while everyone was sleep and the house was peacefully quiet, I went to the kitchen table and decided to write in my prayer journal. For some strange reason I pray more in depth when I am actually "writing" to God, go figure. As I started writing I began to repent specifically for not spending more time in His presence like I know I should. I asked God to forgive me for not using my time wisely, and for not communing with Him more.  He then brought something to my attention, and to my surprise, I had been operating in the spirit of Martha for years and didn't even realize it. My heart dropped, shaking my head in disbelief, I told Him, I don't want to become a full-time Martha, and neglect my Mary responsibilities.

I got so easily caught up in the things of God and what I thought I should be doing that I was actually missing out on what I was suppose to be doing; sitting and listening. BLASPHAMY!!! I know. I know. How in the world can we serve God by sitting and listening!!!

Just keep reading...

I realized I wasn't necessarily distracted with the things of this world, although  that can be an issue too for so many, but I must admit I was distracted in the very thing I thought was most important and pleasing to God and that was "serving" Him. I was so busy serving God that I wasn't paying  attention to God. 

Our instructions, wisdom, knowledge and understandings comes from sitting and listening to the Father. We need daily life instructions and without God's direction and wisdom we will find ourselves lost, frustrated, going here and there and every where; from pillow to post, trying to figure out life, when God is waiting for us to come to Him. There's no need to go from pillow to post, doing this and that, when the answers are at his feet, but we won't sit still
long enough to receive from Him.

Have you every seen, worked or actually served with someone who was awesome at what they did, but mean as H-E-double hockey sticks, just a jacked up attitude? They never smiled, almost as if someone paste a 24/7 frown on their face, always found something to complain about, never happy, short tempered and snappy? You ask yourself, if they are so unhappy why in the world are they doing it. Who put a gun to their head and made them do what they are doing?

Why the frustration?

Just like Martha, no one told her to do all that she felt she "needed" to do FOR God... She put more on herself than required. She put more on her plate than she could swallow, again for the sake of "serving" God. She said "yes" when she should've asked God, first. How many of us have ever been guilty of that? Well, I will be the first to raise my hands.
 
Martha opened her home up to the Lord. She had the spirit of hospitality. She wanted to make sure everything was just perfect, just right, just for Him.. Martha wasn't a bad person for wanting to make sure the Lord's visit was a success. Martha loved the Lord and wanted the best for Him. Martha had good intentions, unfortunately,

GOOD intentions doesn't always mean GOD

intentions. 

The problem with Martha and her intentions was that:

Martha allowed the distractions of SERVING, keep her from being SERVED...

Oftentimes, we are so busy being a blessing, that we don't know how to position ourselves to be blessed.

Don't get me wrong, we all know that we can't just sit and listen forever and not get anything done. That is NOT what I am saying. I'm saying in order to be productive and effective in what God has called us to do, we must first find out what He wants us to do, instead of doing what we think we should be doing.

Therefore, I prayed to God that He would help me get back on track and focus more on what's truly important. I know whenever I leave the presence of God I will be equipped to do what He has instructed me to do. Nothing more, Nothing less.

When we have clear instructions from God, we will be more conscious as to what extra we take on ourselves. It's one thing to be busy doing what God has told us to do, then busy doing what we feel we should be doing.. didn't I say this already,, I guess it was worth repeating.

God desires a Martha with a Mary spirit....

It's just like driving a car, you can't keep driving forever and a day without refueling and expect the car to just run on fumes. It doesn't work that way. Eventually, you will run out of gas and what happens when you run out of gas, Exactly,BROKE DOWN!!! So many Christians are right now, BROKE DOWN!!! They are in need of some serious refueling. For the most part, they need to listen for their next assignment.

God may want to move us to our next duty station(on our jobs, in ministry, in school, in business, just in life period).

YES or NO: How to Avoid Bad Relationships

Bad Relationships

Tired of spinning your wheels and wasting your time with unhealthy relationships: degrading relationships, high maintenance relationships, controlling relationships, fake relationships, abusive(physically, mentally, emotionally and even verbally) relationships, that it's driving you completely insane? There's always drama, jealousy and unnecessary foolishness. Nothing you do or say seems to be satisfactory. They're self-centered and self-absorb. It's their way or the highway. They are ALWAYS right and you are ALWAYS wrong. My God, What gives!!! They are judgmental and have something to say about everything and everybody, and never look at themselves in the mirror. But, yet you find yourself constantly getting connected to those very same people you vowed to avoid.

In the beginning, It seemed like it was God-sent. Everyone got along perfectly. Finally, you exhale. At last, you have found a real genuine relationship. You were starting to believe that genuine relationships no longer exist...But, only TIME will time...

You are still a little skeptical because you have opened up so many times before, giving people the benefit of the doubt, and as a result you get your feelings hurt, talked about, disrespected, rumors spreaded about you that's not true..

They smile in your face, All the time they want to take your place, The back stabbers, Back stabbers!!! Preach, O'JAYS, PREACH!!!!

Insert: (At least if they're going to spread something, just make sure it's the truth, and spread it smoothly, that's all I ask, my goodness). 

Whoever made up this saying: 

"Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me,," Lied, Lied, Lied...Let the truth be told, this only applies to those who are dead and gone, and sleeping in their grave.. We can fake it all day but the truth still stands...Words Can Be Painful.

Ok, enough of that. On to the next type of relationship.

Intimate Relationships:

Ok, here we go...you are approached by the opposite sex and they expressed interest. You are flattered. Your self-esteem just escalated to an all time high.. You are cheesing from ear to ear. You even think you just maybe interested too, especially, if you've been waiting forever and a day. This is really looking promising right about now. I am getting old., you say to yourself. I haven't been in a serious relationship for years. Maybe this IS God. Maybe God has finally sent my mate. Oh WOW!!!THANK YOU LORD!!! It's about time.

Hold up, Wait a minute,, let me put some sense in it,, (I'm sorry I went wayyyy back, it was just too tempting, I couldn't resist)...don't mine me, anyway, moving on...smile...

Hold on, Slow your roll. Let's just pump the breaks for a second. Don't just dive into another unhealthy and unpromising relationship head first, especially not out of desperation. You don't want to go down that same road again, wasting your energy, time and emotions on someone who's not apart of your future, Do you? Yea, I didn't think so. I totally understand. Been there, done that too.

So, how can we be so sure this time isn't like the other times? How can we avoid bad, unhealthy relationships and the drama that comes with it? How do we know if it's God or not? When to say YES or NO to a relationship? Well,glad you asked:

Say "YES" when:

• It lines up with the Word of God
• You have prayed and acknowledged God
• You received a confirmation from GOD
• It's done decent and in order
• You are at peace in your spirit
• There's no confusion
• You have thoroughly thought out the consequences
• You have sought godly counsel
• Boundaries are established
• There's accountability
• It's Spirit lead and NOT flesh lead

Say "NO" when:

• It's contrary to the Word
• You have prayed and no answer or confirmation
• You're being controlled/manipulated/intimidated/disrespected
• There is an uneasiness
• You're being pressured, rushed, used, unsure and ashamed
• It's an unrealistic offer
• You feel condemned, convicted, and guilty
• You can't be yourself
• You haven't sought godly counsel
• Your desires become priority over God's desires
• Your need for a mate is greater than your need for God
• There is flesh and sexual immorality involved 
• There is confusion and drama
• It's on the down low

So, these are some ways that should help you avoid bad relationships. God will always give you an answer, warnings and confirmations. There are always tell, tell signs but sometimes we choose to ignore them, because it's what we want.  

Just open your spiritual eyes and discern before connecting. Trust the voice of God. He will never lead you wrong.

Remember some people come into our life for a reason, a season, or a life time. Don't turn seasonal relationship into permanent ones, you will regret it.

If this helped a little or if you can relate to any of these relationships, please spread the love and share on your social media links below...

Who Are You?
You are spiritually mature to discern a  bad relationship. You are strong and wise enough to know when to say YES or NO.

Have a Bless and Purposeful Day,
TPL 😘😘 😘

Waiting On Your Husband? Whoever, said it was easy, LIED!!!

At age 24, When God delivered and saved me, I made it up in my mind that I was not going back and I meant it. I realized that I wanted better out of life and I wasn’t going to let a man or anything else for that matter deprive me of what’s rightfully mine. I wanted peace, joy, and a sound mind. I wanted someone who was going to love me for me, unconditionally, with all my imperfections and flaws. I was getting too old and mature for the same ole, same ole, immature games. It was time to grow up, "Let Go and Let God" and that's exactly what I did.

I was abstinent for 10 years before God sent my husband. Yes, close your mouth, you heard right, 10 whole, long years. I can’t believe it myself some times. Was it easy? Heck nah, Absolutely not, whoever said it was easy LIED and the truth ain't in them, yes I said AIN"T, because that's how I feel it, but I can admit one thing, it was easier with God. Of course, I went through withdrawals. Who doesn't?  There were times I wanted a man’s affection, and times I didn’t. Times when I got discouraged and weak and times when I was strong. Times when I wanted to give up and throw in the towel and times when I pressed my way. Times when I felt all alone and no one understood my pain and times when I knew God will never leave me nor forsake me. I played the victim role, woe is me and wanted a pity party and there were times when I got up and brushed myself off. You can call it bipolar, or whatever, this thing was real.

I’m telling you it was not easy and it’s even harder when you have already had a taste. If you know what I mean. See, that’s why sex was made for marriage, because you can’t miss something you never had, therefore, a sista was missing it big time, don't get it twisted. But, Joshua Harris, the author of "I kissed dating goodbye" said it best,

"A good thing at the wrong time is wrong thing" 

And I was determined not to sell myself short and settle for less than God’s best for me anymore.

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

This wasn't just a cliché' or just another memory verse anymore, because there were times when this flesh got weak but I thank God my spirit was willing not to give into the temptations. You notice I said temptations? Yes, temptations will come, I'm sure you already know... In my case, they were fine, built just like I like'em, smelled good and said all the right words, a sista was like please Lord give me strength...and I went running.

I was like RUN FOREST RUN!!! I wasn't even trying to entertain the devil, despite how tempting it was. But, honestly, no lie, there were times I really did wish that some of them were the one... knowing good and well that was nothing but flesh all the way. But, you can't punish a girl for wishing. Don't judge me. I'm just saying, the brother was fine, that's all...Anyway, moving on...

Beautiful, listen to me and listen closely. It is ok, to feel the way you feel. It's not a sin. It's not crime. It's normal. We all get lonely, impatient, frustrated, irritated, and aggravated at times. We all want that affection and to feel special. We all have even asked that proverbial question: WHEN LORD, WHEN!!! Always a bridesmaid, but never a bride. Well, in my case, always a hostess or dancer and never a bride.

God knows how you feel, just be open and honest with him. Tell God the butt naked truth(literally if you have too). He understands. He will not judge or condemn you. He wants to help you through this waiting process. LET HIM. He knows how much you can handle and how long you can wait. Remember the post about GOOD, Better, BEST? The BEST takes time. It requires more...If you didn't read it yet, please click below and you will see what's required to wait on the BEST and why..

http://divinebydesign3.blogspot.com/2014/05/single-ladies-are-you-cheating-on-your.html 

True Story: I remember, and this is no lie, I remember one day feeling really, really, hot and bothered and I thought I was going to go crazy. I thought my precious jewels were going to jump out of my pants. You might be laughing, but I am so serious. I started screaming at the top of my lungs with my arms raised and this is what I said, ready for this? I shouted, LORD, PLEASE, I AM SO HORNY, PLEASE HELP A SISTA OUT. I NEED YOU RIGHT NOW!!! and in seconds, the heat was gone. I promise, I am not lying. It was literally seconds... So, I said that to say, sometimes desperate times, calls for desperate measures when you want nothing but the Best. Yes, people may call you crazy, or discredit your feelings but don't listen to the naysayers. Be true to yourself and God.

So, what steps did I take to stay sane during this time of waiting?

Well, First, I upped my prayer life, connected and surrounded myself with people who was strong in the faith to keep me accountable, I went out with friends and enjoyed myself. I avoided certain music, movies and TV shows, that only fed the flesh. I served faithfully in ministry, fellowshipped with the saints, praised and worshipped God like crazy and to top it off, I was eating and drinking the Word.  

I studied scriptures that targeted self worth and values. I read that I am a child of THE King, therefore, I am chosen, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a woman belonging to God.., and I was urged to abstain from sinful desires. (1 Peter 2:9,11). I also read that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, (Psalm 139:14). I had to take my medicine daily. I even had to up the dosage during those hard withdrawal times, especially the times when I thought about how good "IT" felt, but it was just that, A THOUGHT! I had to constantly remind myself, with every fleshly act comes severe consequences and it wasn't worth it. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt, shoes, jeans, earrings and necklace...Nope, that life for me was finally over.

These steps were critical for me throughout this process of waiting. I stayed busy. No idleness for me. This kept me from going back, kept me focused and strong.

I don't want to sound preachy, but it's the truth and it worked. Like I said, it kept me for 10 years and I know if you are serious about waiting for your BOAZ, and not settling and wasting you time, energy and emotions, it will work for you too. Desperate times, calls for desperate measures. I'm not telling you what I heard, I'm telling you what I know through my own personal experiences.

Hang in there beautiful. He is closer than you think. Stay encouraged. He is on the way...You are both being prepared for each other. Stay Faithful, committed and remember, No cheating on your husband, please;)

http://divinebydesign3.blogspot.com/2014/05/single-ladies-are-you-cheating-on-your.html

Who Are You?

A beautiful lady in waiting. A royal priesthood. You are fearfully and wonderfully made and a honest woman.

P.S.

Want to know If he is the one?

How to know if the relationship you are in is God or not? Stay tune for the next post...

Blessed, encouraged and enjoyed the transparency of the author? Tell the world by sharing this post on Facebook, Google+, via email etc... I made it easy for you. Just click below where you see the appropriate links,,, Rise to the challenge and let your friends and family in on it.

Oh, and don't forget to comment below. I want to hear your thoughts.

Have a Blessed and Purposeful Day,

TPL 😘😘 😘



Single Ladies, Are you cheating on your husband? PART 2

We live in a modern society where everything is based on convenience, quick, fast and in a hurry. We have instant everything these days; fast food, microwaves, instant messages, high speed Internet, express packaging, etc... Technology has taking us into a world of easy access that makes waiting almost impossible. We can even pay for speedy delivery. Go figure...We would rather pay a hefty price for convenience instead on waiting for the BEST!!! We have paid the price of entering into bad "SHIPS" Relationships, Business partnerships, Friendships and Fellowships.

That's why God has a strategic reasons why He requires us to wait patiently on Him:

1. To Strengthen us
2. To Prepare us
3. To Equip us
4. To Develop
5. To Mature us
6. To Bless us and ultimately, to Glorify Him...

So, whatever that thing/person is that we've put priority in our life other than God, understand it or he/she will never fill that void-that longing or desire. Temporary fixes can leave permanent damage and scars. Don't make a fleshly decision based on lustful desires and then want God to bless it. Only God can totally and completely satisfy our cravings to be loved and accepted unconditionally.

GOD IS TRUE INTIMACY!!!

Nothing or no one can compare. Nothing or no one can satisfy like He can. He is the only one who can meet our every need; emotionally, spiritually, physically, mentally, financially, etc...

Only God can filled our void of emptiness and loneliness. Therefore, we must learn to be content with our heavenly husband. He will keep us, comfort us and show us what true intimacy is;the intimacy without the guilt.

Remember, our heavenly husband knows us, yet He created us inside out. He knows our likes and dislikes; what turns us on and what turns us off; He touches us where we hurt; He catches our every tear before they fall; He holds us every so tightly; He soothes and keep us calm with his warm embrace; He keeps us safe from harm; He encamps His angels around us to fight our battles; He sees our total nakedness and loves unconditionally without judgment. Now, That's TRUE INTIMACY!!! Oh my goodness,,, who can resent this kind of intimacy.. only a fool!!!

Salt N Pepa said it best: What a man, What a man, What a man, What a mighty good man, yes HE IS....

He is our first love, our first husband, our first everything, Why Cheat On Him? He deserves and desires much more from THE wife. We need to ask ourselves, how would it feel if we were cheated on by someone we loved so deeply, someone we gave something very precious and dear too, unfortunately, some of us already know the answer to that, because we too, have been cheated on once or twice in our life and it crushed us. Therefore, how do you think your Maker feels when we cheat on Him? Let's not be a cheater, but delight in THE husband and watch Him give us everything we desire, including "A" husband according to His will.  He doesn't even want us to cheat on Him with a husband, Play with it...

If we can be Faithful, Committed, Submissive, Loving, etc...towards our first husband, He can entrust us to continue being that wife to Him even after He sends our earthly husband without putting him before our Creator... Like I said before, He is a jealous Husband...

So, what can we take away from this long drawn out post... it's very simple!!!

If:

He who finds "A" WIFE, finds a good thing and finds favor from the Lord... 

Then, wouldn't it behoove us to be a WIFE already? I don't recall it saying: He who finds a girlfriend, a booty call, a one night stand, a ho, a mistress, etc... It clearly says, He who finds a WIFE, finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord (Proverbs 18:22)

(Spiritually)You don't become a wife when you marry per se, in God's eyes you are already "THE" Wife, selah...

WHO ARE YOU?

You are a good thing that will cause your Husband to obtain favor from the Lord. You go girl!!! Do your THANG!!! You are the best wife your husband will ever find... Now, walk in it already!!!

P.S. If you are reading this and missed Part 1, you may click here to read...
http://divinebydesign3.blogspot.com/2014/05/single-ladies-are-you-cheating-on-your.html


Have a blessed and purposeful Day,

TPL😘😘😘

Single Ladies, Are you cheating on your husband?Part 1

Question: How many of you singles are married?

If you answered "no" dah, then you are highly mistaken. I am here to inform you that you are indeed already married. Oh, no, you don't believe me? Ok, well maybe you will believe this:

For your Maker is your husband-- the LORD Almighty is his name-- the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; he is called the God of all the earth. Isaiah 54:5(NIV)

So, let me ask you again. Singles, Are you married? If you answered "yes" of course,  you have answered correctly. I knew I couldn't convince you but it's something about the power of His Word...smile...

Now that you know the truth about your single status, I want to also inform you that your husband is a jealous husband. He wants you all to himself. He wants to be your everything, but too many times we are seeking our earthly husband and neglect our first love. But, we must remember and learn to be THE wife to our heavenly husband before we can be "A" wife to a earthly husband.(selah)

Being "THE" wife, while waiting to be "A" wife is extremely essential.   

Question #2: How many of us really want God's will to be done in our life? Honestly...

Now what if His will for you is NOT to be married, how hard would that be to except? Yea, I know, EXTREMELY hard for so many. But, yet we pray all the time, "Lord, not my will, but your will be done." What we really mean is, "As long as it's according to my will" if we are really honest with ourselves.  I said all of that to say, First, we must learn to be content with our heavenly husband, and be THE wife He has created us to be to Him before He can entrust us with a earthly husband that He has created for us. Our first lesson of intimacy comes from our first husband.

 If the desire for a man is stronger than the desire for the Creator, we are not ready for the man that God has in store for us. Every good and perfect gift comes from God, James 1:17.

 Are you cheating on your husband? If we are not faithful, committed and submissive to our First Husband, how can He trust us with the promise. He will not be in competition with anyone.

 "We cheat on "THE" Husband and yet expect Him to bless us with "A" husband.(Selah)..

 

No matter how hard we try we will never be able to fill the void that only God has divinely designed. God purposefully created that void so we can solely depend, and forever be drawn closer to Him. This void only He can fill. We can do all the sexing, sexting, dating, smoking, drinking, eating, etc, and we realize these things will never Ever, Ever, EVER, fill this void that was created by God Himself.  And, even when God blesses us with an earthly husband, there will always be a place that was designed for only God to satisfy, because even a man won't be able to meet our need. They were not designed to meet our every need anyway, only God can satisfy our every need.

God blesses us not to wing us off of Him but to draw us closer to Him.

Plenty of times we boldly say "God said"  when in reality God didn't say anything. Our lustful desires said it and God had nothing to do with it at all. Then we have to re-track and realize maybe this wasn't God, maybe this was me. Thank God we can go into reverse and get it right by repenting.

Disclosure: Now, this is only for the honest people. For those who never experienced this, God bless you. But that's not my testimony.

Therefore, we have to be careful when we profess that God blessed us when we are clearly walking in disobedience and  miserable all at the same time.

EXTRA,EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!

That's not a blessing that's a "fleshing"...Yes, I created that word, but it works. So, just roll with me..ok,smile.

"The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it." Prov 10:22,

BLESSINGS vs FLESHINGS

• Blessings:  Being Spirit Lead/Lines up with the Word of God---Leads to Prosperity, Joy, Peace, etc

•  Fleshings:  Being Flesh lead/Manipulating our own deliverance/"blessings"---Leads to      Miseries, Sorrows and Consequences

 "Walk in the spirit and we shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh".. Galatians 5:16-17

Food for thought

Spirit= Isaac

Flesh=Ishmael

When we pray, do we wait patiently on Him? Or do we manipulate our own deliverance; our own so-called 'blessing?"

God wants nothing but the best for our life. He knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows what we need and what we can handle. Believe it or not, it's the truth anyhow. No matter how you slice it. His love for us is always fresh and He wants us to be able to handle the blessings properly so that He can get the glory.

It's when we THINK we're ready, is when we ARE NOT...

Often times, to choose between Good and Bad is easy, but to choose between Good, Better, Best is difficult so we settle for less than God's best for our life because the BEST requires more:

• More waiting; More sacrificing; More strength; More self-control/discipline; More faith and More trust.

To be Continued...I didn't realize how long this blog was..My God...

Please Click Below to Check Out Part 2...
http://divinebydesign3.blogspot.com/2014/05/single-ladies-are-you-cheating-on-your_22.html

Who Are You?

You are THE wife God has created you to be NOW and waiting patiently to Be A wife to the man God has tailor made just for you...

Have a Blessed and Purposeful Day,

TPL😘😘😘