A Good Husband...worth the wait

Image courtesy of www.rawlife.com

We are often 'running out of time' when it comes to putting a ring on it. So we choose men that look good on paper and not in God's eyes.  Let's not be too hasty in our quest for everlasting love, it could damage us and create an unhealthy cycle of searching for fulfillment. We must understand what love and marriage truly is in order to be involved in it. A love formed around God does not go without difficulty, but always comes back to a place of peace.  I came across this incredible advice via email from an anonymous author that explains the reasons why we must understand the true meaning of love and marriage.

Matters Whom You Marry: 
To all the young, unmarried Christian girls out there, listen up: who you marry matters. You might think that the way he treats you isn't so bad. It’s not going to get better after the wedding. You might think that he’ll change. It’s possible, but most don’t. You might think that you’ll be able to minister to him and help him. Possibly, but if you can’t now, you won’t then, and you will be at risk yourself.
A husband should lead and cherish you, not need your counsel for basic personality or behavior issues.

Unless someone married is very frank with you, you can’t understand how much a husband will impact your entire life. Next to salvation there is no other long term event that will change so many areas of your life so deeply. Here are just some of the ways that marriage will impact every aspect of living.

1. It will impact you spiritually. If the guy is not a believer, you can stop right there. You have no business yoking a redeemed soul with an unregenerate one, even if he seems open to change. Christ has bought you with a price and it is not an option to give away that blood bought heart to someone who doesn't know and love your Lord. It will cripple your spiritual development, open up a host of temptations, stifle your prayer life, make regular church going difficult, and cause massive parenting conflict if you have children.

If the guy is a believer, is he a strong one? Will he lead you in prayer, Bible reading, family devotions, and public worship? Or will you be on your own? Is he going to make spiritual growth a priority or do other things come first? Is he going to ask you how it’s going with your soul so he can help you grow in holiness and love for Christ, or will he leave that to your pastor? Is he going to lead the children in this, or will you have to spearhead that? In church, is he going to help the kids sit well, pray, find the hymn, or will you be the one pointing out what is happening next and helping the family keep up? Many women have married spiritually immature men, thinking that it wasn't a big issue, or that the man would change, and they were wrong. They bear the scars.

The health of your eternity is at stake. Think carefully.

2. It will impact you emotionally. Is the guy you’re thinking of going to encourage you, love you, be kind to you, and seek to understand you, or will he want to go out with the guys when you’re having a hard night? Will he listen when you are struggling with something or will he be preoccupied with a video game? Is he going to be annoyed when you cry or will he get you Kleenex and give you a hug? Is he going to going to understand that you are probably more tender than he is, more sensitive to issues and comments, or is he regularly going to run rough shod over your feelings? One woman was struggling to breastfeed her new baby, believing that that was the best thing for her, but it was very difficult. Instead of giving support and encouragement, the husband would make mooing sounds whenever he saw his wife working at it. We have to get rid of princess complexes, but we do have emotional needs. Any guy who is uncaring about your feelings and self esteem is selfish and should be left alone.

Be careful – a husband can cripple or foster emotional health.

3. It will impact you physically. Is the guy you’re with going to provide for your basic needs? Will he be able to shelter, clothe and feed you? At one point in our marriage, I was worried that there was no employment opportunity. A man who doesn't provide for his household is worse than an infidel (I Tim. 5:8). You might have to help ease the financial burden, but unless your husband is disabled or there is another unusual circumstance, you shouldn't have to carry it yourself.

Will the man you are with care for your body or abuse it? If he gives you little smacks, kicks, etc. when you’re dating, get away. It’s almost guaranteed that he will abuse you after marriage, and stats show that’s especially true when you are pregnant. Is he going to care for and protect your body or will he hurt it? There are women who thought it was no big deal to have little (sort of friendly) punches or slaps from their boyfriends, but who are covering up the bruises from their husbands.

Will the man you are with care for you sexually? Is he going to honour the marriage bed in physical and mental faithfulness to you or will he flirt, feed his porn addiction, or even leave you for another woman? You can’t always predict these issues, but if the seeds or practices are already there, watch out. I recently saw a newly married couple and the husband was flirting openly with another woman. Unless something drastic happens, that marriage is headed for disaster.

Is he going to be tender and gentle to you in bed? An unbelieving co-worker once told my sister that after her first sexual encounter, she had trouble walking for a few days because her boyfriend was so rough. In other words, he wasn't selfless enough to care for the body of the woman he said he loved.

Watch out. Your body needs care and protection.

4. It will impact you mentally. Is the man that you’re thinking of going to be a source of worry or will he help you deal with your worries? Is he going to encourage your intellectual development, or will he neglect it? Is he going to value your opinions and listen to what you are thinking, or will he disregard your thoughts? Is he going to help you manage stress so that your mind is not burdened that way, or is he going to let you struggle through issues alone? Is he going to care for you and be thoughtful of you if you are experiencing mental strain, or will he ignore it? I know of a woman who could handle pregnancy and child birth very well physically but postpartum depression took a huge toll on her mind. The husband overlooked it, continuing to have more children, until his wife ended up in a mental institution.

You might think that the intellectual or mental side of a marriage is small. It’s bigger than you think. Consider it seriously.

5. It will impact you relation-ally. How’s your relationship with your mother? Your dad? Do you love them? Does your boyfriend? Fast forward ten years: you tell your husband that your mother is coming for the weekend. Is he excited? Disappointed? Angry? Making snide jokes with his friends? Of course, a husband should come first in your priority of relationships, as you both leave father and mother and cleave to one another. But parents are still a big part of the picture. Whatever negative feelings he has about your parents now will probably be amplified after marriage. Your marriage will either strengthen or damage – even destroy – your relationship with your parents. The people who know you best and love you most right now could be cut out of the picture by a husband who hates them.

It’s the same with sisters and friends. Will they be welcomed, at reasonable times, in your home? Will the guy who you’re with encourage healthy relationships with other women, or will he be jealous of normal, biblical friendships? Will he help you mentor younger women and be thankful when older women mentor you, or will he belittle that?

Don’t sacrifice many good relationships for the sake of one guy who can’t value the people who love you.

So how will your boyfriend do after the vows? Because this is just a sampling of the ways that a husband can bless or curse his wife. The effects are far reaching, long lasting, and either wonderful or difficult. True, there are no perfect men out there. But there are great ones. Marriage to the wrong person is a nightmare.

Don’t be so desperate to get married that your marriage is a grief. If you are in an unhappy marriage, there are ways to get help. But if you’re not married, don’t put yourself in that situation. Don’t marry someone whose leadership you can’t follow. Don’t marry someone who is not seeking to love you as Christ loved the church. Marry someone who knows and demonstrates the love of Christ.

Written By Anonymous

Introduction and posted by Carmen Fletcher  

Where is the Love?

A drawing I did for my husband a couple of weeks ago.

Last Sunday at church, my pastor read aloud from John, chapter 13. When he read verses 34 and 35, I mentally froze. It says,

 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

So, I've heard this a thousand times in the past. Love. Love. Love. Wonderful, wondrous, love. I love him, I love her. I love chocolate.

Yet, sitting in that pew on Sunday, I felt befuddled (Yes, I actually felt befuddled. Don't you love S.A.T. words?). I felt convicted. I felt challenged. Jesus said people will know His disciples not by their Mali Music and Michael W. Smith mp3s. Not by the dangling crosses around their necks. Not by those little Jesus fish stuck on their bumpers, either. Nope. They would be known by their love.

Four years ago, I read the very enlightening and informative "unChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks about Christianity... and Why It Matters” by David Kinnamon and Gabe Lyons. I wrote then:

“unChristian” polls thousands of nonbelievers (atheists, agnostics, Muslims, Hindus, etc), with special emphasis on people between the ages of 16-29, to find out how they view adherents of our faith. The results? Overwhelmingly negative. While this is no shocker, what was surprising for me as a Christian reader is just how negatively we are viewed. Christians are homophobic, hypocritical, too disconnected and not spiritual enough. Unfortunately, as someone on the inside, I could relate to some of the “outsiders” complaints. And it’s not just me who feels some negativity towards my own faith; quite a few of my fellow young Christians also feel some ambivalence towards today’s Christianity. While my view of Jesus has never faltered, I have been quite put off a number of times by other Christ followers.

Recently, I watched the documentary "LORD, Save Us From Your Followers" which touches on the same themes.

Okay, so perhaps you're thinking, "But those people are in the world. They don't know Jesus! They don't know love!" Maybe. But Jesus' words should apply all the more. He said "everyone", not just your fellow small group attendees. It bears repeating: "E-V-E-R-Y-O-N-E" will know Jesus' disciples by their love.

So, in the words of the Black Eyed Peas, "Where is the Love"? A challenge to you all: What simple act can you do today to show love? Share your random acts of love in the comments!

Alisha De Freitas blogs at East of Eden.

How To Forgive Those Who Offend You

Never does the human soul appear so strong and noble as when it forgoes revenge and dares to forgive an injury. -E. H. Chapin.

Louis B. Mayer, one of the founders of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), told the story of his boyhood experience. One day, he had a fight with a boy and
came home with bruises. As his mother tended to his bruises, he complained to her about the boy who was rude and unfair and was to blame for the fight. His mother was silent. After she had comforted her son, she took him to the backyard of their home. In the distance they could see the hills that looked beautiful, drenched in sunlight. 



She told her son to call the boy who hurt him all the bad names he could imagine. Louis was pleased at the prospect. In a hate-filled voice he shouted accusations and swear words. 

The echo from the hills was music to his ears. His mother stood listening. When he finished swearing, his mother appealed to him to shout: God bless you. Confused, Louis stood back for a moment. Then, he obeyed his mother and shouted: God bless you. The hills echoed: God bless you. Louis never forgot the lesson his mother taught him, without preaching on forgiveness.

• Treat others how you want to be treated, the energy you put out comes back to you.

How do we respond when we are offended? Most often, we want to strike back. We wish harm on the person who caused us pain. We publicize the wrong done to us and continue to malign the offender. Then what? Life goes on, for the offender and for us. Not one wee bit is changed, except that our hearts reek of hate and our minds are sullied with wicked thoughts. Is it worth it? Of course, there is pleasure in tit-for-tat. There is smug satisfaction in putting down the offender. But for these intangibles, there is no tangible benefit in striking back.

However, there is a huge negative that might follow – the blame game might never end. On the contrary, when we forgive there are some positives. What are they? One, the offender is stunned. He expected retaliation; now he receives forgiveness. Two, because of that he is in our debt. That would make him uncomfortable. Which means that revenge through forgiveness is a better option. Three, we do not carry around a load of bad memories and much pain. Instead, we cast away that load and resume our lives with no hint of the incident. Four, without intending to, we grow taller in our own eyes and in eyes of the wrongdoer. Without doubt, the merits of forgiving outweigh those of retaliation. We do not realize the benefits because we do not reflect on them. On an impulse we react, to regret our fallen ways.

Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years, during which time he suffered painful persecution and abject humiliation. When he became President of South Africa, after his release and a massive mandate from his people, he could have struck back and had his vengeance. Instead, he forgave his enemies and begged his compatriots to forgive the wrongdoers. Real power is when you have it and restrain yourself from using it. That was Mandela’s response. With that act he became an even taller leader in the eyes of the world. Like him, Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi led by example. The example Jesus gave from the cross is the most edifying of all.

Even ordinary people, in their ordinary lives inspire us. During the days of Apartheid, in South Africa, a black woman and her two children were walking down a street, when a white man passing them spat at her. Unfazed, she wiped her face and said: Thank you, Sir; now, for the children. In the face of such an unexpected and brave response, the white man stood shamed and motionless.

• Ask God to help you. There is limitless love in the spirit.

Forgiveness does not come easy. Only the courageous can forgive. Not the cowards. They nurse grudges and wait for an opportunity to get even. Only the courageous and mature see the blessing in overlooking the faults of others. Only the compassionate can find space in their hearts to accommodate offenders in the spirit of peace. Such grace and strength can come only from God, when we ask for help. Ask and it will be given you. Matt. 7: 7. We will need to be asking often because we are persuaded to forgive not once, but seventy times seven Matt. 18:22.

-Ignatius Fernandez

10 Ways The Holy Spirit Gives You Energy

It's another week. Hopefully you're energized and not burnt out yet. I recently came across a post on social media that listed "10 Signs You're Burning Out" obviously we know when our body's energy is burning out, because it makes it very clear. 

The truth is most Americans are burning lots of energy, or burnt out and trying to cope with it however they can. The good news is there is a much better solution than the latest energy drink.

Manufacturers have supplements to help you sleep, They have supplements to give you energy.....How about trying a thing called Faith?! Its the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen. 

There is life and peace in our divine purpose and power from the Holy Spirit. Our energy goes to where we place our labor, and the passion will either rob us or restore us. I believe It's best to place our labor and professional career where our purpose is in order to truly win in life. 

However, in the mean time of working 9 to 5 or juggling multiple Jobs. Here's a list that helps a lot more:

1. It Fights Exhaustion
 "But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the LORD,..."- Micah 3:8. Micah was addressing being empowered for a specific task in this verse, but being under the influence of the holy spirit revitalizes physical, mental and spiritual power. 


2. It Promotes Motivation
When we are subjected to the spirit of God we feel a robust energy to take on whatever obstacle or duty that is at hand. Continually being empowered by a life giving word whether written or spoken elicits a motivation in our spirit that can't be contained. "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." - Phillipians 4:13


3. It Helps Eliminate Frustration, Cynicism and Other Negative Emotions
Living in divine purpose and feeling the of empowerment to achieve your calling backed by the holy spirit completely terminates any feeling that what you’re doing doesn't matter that much or your effort is useless. it decreases the need for pessimism. Everybody does experience negative emotions from time to time, but feelings of frustration and cynicism in a spirit-filled life are very few and narrowly in-between.

4. It Stabilizes Focus
Weariness interferes with our ability to concentrate on menial tasks, but understanding the source of peace and revitalization of our spirit makes our focus in pursuit of it inevitable. When we are tired and worn we naturally cry out, we want to specify and directly make our petitions heard. When we Focus in worship, or meditation it's often the holy spirit that helps us communicate and gain results. "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." -Roman 8: 26-30

5. It Enhances Job Performance.

When we are motivated to do a job, free from exhaustion and the task has a sense of intrinsic value to us, we do it with ease. Our passion is in our purpose when we love it, we will do anything for it. We are happy to build the skill it takes to excel in that area. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."-Romans 8:28

6. It Decreases interpersonal problems at home and work.
The joy of the spirit as well as understanding how purpose works decreases conflicts with other people it helps to highlight other peoples talents, roles, and specific value. The spirit helps us make a better connection with others. Through purpose we see the resource and value of relationships, we're more inclined to hear what others have to say. The holy spirit increases unity.

7. It Increases ability to make healthy choices.
If we want to live to see the vision, and our goals come to pass we understand the importance of maintaining healthy  productive habits for our mind, body, and spirit to promote vital longevity. The holy spirit also gives discernment in certain situations. "for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say."-Luke 12:12

8. It Improves Life/Work balance.
Recovering from the stress of work is easy because generally stress is less severe when you're doing what you love. It is important to stop when the actual "career" task stops and take time to celebrate with family and bask in the the beauty of life. If you just can't beat stress and worry see (every other number on this list).

9. It Generally Increases Satisfaction.
Having a good work and life balance means knowing the importance of good time management.   Purpose and time go hand in hand. understanding purpose is making the best of your time to fulfill it. Time is valuable, however fulfilling purpose is for any given day or even second.  The spirit puts our time in sync with God's time and produces an overall happiness in our lives. 

The fulfillment of the spirit overpowers the happiness of any other love or material wealth. "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit," -Romans 14:17


10. It Has Health Benefits
"a sense of enthusiasm, of hopefulness, of engagement in life, and the ability to face life’s stresses with emotional balance—appears to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. The protective effect was distinct and measurable, even when taking into account such wholesome behaviors as not smoking and regular exercise."  -according to one study quoted in a Harvard Medical Journal The root of hopefulness, engagement, and enthusiasm can be traced from joy, which the holy spirit provides in abundance. 

As I mentioned at the beginning continually being empowered by a life giving word enlivens the holy spirit  and the healing restoration it provides. 

"My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. -Proverbs 4:20-22"

So Skip the the energy drinks and try the "wings" of Holy Spirit's on for flight!! Go Win and Make today Awesome on Purpose!!

Resources: Bible Study Tools, Global Christians

Love, Sex, Marriage...Expect The Best.

Love, Sex, and Marriage...It's Not Complicated

Relationships are only as "Complicated" as we make them, and not as hard as our bodies sometimes make it seem, but dating and romance is an interesting phenomenon. 

When we get out of relationships that we know aren't right for us, we sometimes still spend time thinking about our ex and if the decisions we made were accurate, We all want to be linked, loved and cared for, but eventually we have enough self respect to stick with our intuition and wait for that union which we KNOW for sure is right, the "true love" we know we deserve.

 I believe its the "Mean time" that detracts most of us.  There is an utter loneliness of "in the meantime",  the period and time of dating before that awesome relationship we know we're meant to have.

This is the period where we get to build ourselves and become who we want to be, and its where we make the important decisions. In American society the landscape of dating and relationships has truly changed.

 In the secular media and culture it seems that everything is about sex and superficiality. The  fact that immorality often reigns in pop culture can confuse things even more. As I contemplated and felt embarrassed and ashamed to be apart of a society where the value of marriage, fidelity, and morals have sunken so low, I cried out to God and the answer became very clear. A question was posed to me " How Do You Wanna Be Loved?" as it came to me it made perfect sense.

This question is something we must really ask ourselves, What are the ways that we want someone else to love us? It was so easy to deliver the answer about myself and none of them were uncommon. They are what most people want. We want to be checked on, we want to be bought nice things, we want to be praised and we want to be bragged about, etc. These are ways that we know people care for us and we are seriously made to feel loved and appreciated. 


Well, all the very things we want, are exactly how we should show our love to God! Every personal preference or love language we really like is what we should give to God ourselves! When we do that, God will bring exactly the same type of person into our lives, because what we put out, we attract.

There are so many reports, ratios and statistics, but the truth is there is no limit on good men, or women of any race. Despite what we heard in all the reports when we deliver love to God in exactly the way that we want to be loved, God brings what we want back to us. We attract, what we are. Love is limitless despite the reports of lack and the immorality of society, we can have the great relationship that we want. Scripture asks: Who's report will you believe? trust the spirit of love.

"When God is in it, there is no limit." Love God wholly and righteously and the right love will find you.

--April D. Byrd

GOD'S LOVE IS MY KIND OF LOVE

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,

"Never will I leave you;

never will I forsake you."

HEBREWS 13:5 

My Kind Of Love- Emile Sande

There are times when we are so angry and bitter because we are alone. Alone in circumstance, alone in pain, alone in happiness, or alone in love. We feel so combated with ourselves because we want to achieve things alone through the trenches to reap the glory. Yet when the cameras stop flashing, the fame leeches let go, we are left alone...unless we have the love of God. 

When we don't get what we want in life or everything goes wrong, we curse God for everything he has not given us. Not even considering his protection, demon deflection, and blessings along the way. We would rather say we did it all, no figment God gave us anything.  

It is in those moments that God will finally make us 'sit down' and re-evaluate our lives; whether it is a Job like experience or not. Then we will finally understand his will, because his will, his guidance, his protection is love. 

 

-Carmen Fletcher

Motivation: Be Better Than Good

Spring is in the air, a lot of love and relationships form around this time. Relationships are great, but it's important to appreciate who we are as individuals first. 

Being the best us for our own self, is the best gift we  can give ourselves, and the world. 

It's important not to depend on relationships with people for happiness, if we have no life before them, we'll have no life without them. It's best to Recognize the true source of our Joy and Peace. God's love is above all. When we Put Him first, we'll find the love to healthily love another.

After that the best thing to do is to make sure we're better than good or all around totally Awesome! When we look in the mirror we should be the person we absolutely love. Self-love, strength, and confidence start from within. Everybody may not like the confidence we exude, but some people are depending on it. For the whole creation hopes for and expects the revelation of the sons of God.* 

The world deserves you at your best!!

 "We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world" -Marianne Williamson

If we have a good relationship with ourself we relate to everything and everyone else in the world much better. 

Make today Awesome!... because you are!!!

*Romans 8:19


photo credit: Divine Relationships

Mississippi Put Prayer Back In School

"MISSISSIPPI NOW HAS PRAYER BACK IN IT'S SCHOOLS!!!" the post going viral across Facebook, however, the thing about this news is, IT'S A MAJOR VICTORY!! (smile) America in it's current state of affairs could definitely use a lot more divine guidance. Pledging allegiance to a flag representing states united under God is a definite plus!!

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. Psalm 33:12

Pray without Ceasing.

Mississippi lawmakers have passed legislation that would legalize student-led prayer in the state's public schools. Senate Bill 2633, which went to Gov. Phil Bryant March 6 for his signature, would also allow students to talk about their faith in the classroom and organize school Bible clubs, as well as pray at football games, graduation ceremonies, and during morning announcements.

Sponsors of the bill said that secular groups have intimidated and confused school administrators about the legality of religious expression in schools, and the law is meant to bring clarity. According to those on both sides of the issue, “Organized school prayer remains widespread in Mississippi, despite opponents’ efforts to curtail it,” reported the Associated Press. “In October, for example, the ACLU sent a letter to the Lincoln County school system demanding a halt to routine prayer at West Lincoln High School.”

The bill's proponents insist it will not force students to pray, but will enable them to do so voluntarily. But Bear Atwood, director of Mississippi's ACLU chapter, argued that students who do not wish to pray would still be a captive audience. Christianity Today quoted Atwood as saying that the new law could also lead to procedural issues and unwanted favoritism, such as with “school administrators selecting which students lead prayer in announcements or before a basketball game.”

One of the leaders in the campaign for school prayer over the past several years has been Republican State Rep. Mark Formby, who has introduced a school prayer bill every year since 2009. He said the measure is meant to dispel all confusion about what students can and cannot do in school relative to religious expression, including wearing religious-themed clothing, discussing their faith in the classroom, and voluntarily praying at school-sponsored events. “I'm not so much worried about what's allowed as what's disallowed,” Formby told Fox News. He added that he has had many conversations with parents concerned about the issue, and the bill is meant to clear the air. Formby explained that the measure “doesn't have to restore school prayer,” but it “will allow children, on a voluntary basis, to pray or not to pray.”

read more at: The New American
photo credits: the new american, the word network

Motivation: Access Your Best

They overcame him because of the Lamb's blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They didn't love their life, even to death. -Revelation 12:11

We are saved by Christ blood and by sharing our testimony of  what He accomplished through us, by his choice to give His life. 

Live Your Best Life.

Because Christ "Chose" we have the power to make great choices as well. We have the power to overcome the weakness of our flesh.                     Isaiah 53: 1-12


Let your Spirit's will to succeed be stronger than your body's limitations. Jesus Christ victory in the garden of Gethsemane won the power of human will, when He uttered "Lord, Let not My will, but your will be done." We have the power to overcome every sickness, every affliction, every bad habit, when we submit to God's purpose for the life He gave us and take on the strength we gain through the power of Jesus Christ. 

It pleased God to bruise Him and It was Christ's CHOICE to die, so that we may LIVE, and live abundantly!! Take up your right to abundance, and take it by force, because your spirit has a kingdom authority and power that holds the key to everything you could ever want! ITS INSIDE OF YOU!! GO FOR IT!! Don't settle for less than the best when the best of LIFE is yours.                                                                                                     

Your Testimony and Your Life is all yours... Make The Best Of It!!!

photo credit: freelance folder

Motivation: 3 Ways To Prosper In The New Year

Social Media and Pop Culture were still buzzing over the week-end about the documentary "Life Is But A Dream". One powerful exclamation by the executive producer and star of the documentary, Beyonce Knowles when she appeared on Oprah's "Next Chapter", was her concluding that each of us should understand how every event of our lives are connected.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.- Romans 8:28

The big deal about the movie was that we all got to see new and private moments in the life of the celebrity, but there's only one moment that matters most in every one's life, Oprah's Favorite: "The Aha Moment"!

After every moment of her personal YouTube to the world, and the title forming clip for the movie when she exclaims God's glory, before jumping in the freedom and purification of water, it's safe to say Bey's conclusion and  life lesson for the film is ultimately this:

"Life is [God's] dream, We have to "connect the dots" of how they line up with our purpose, and continue to walk 'BOLD'ly in it!"

This is a truth that's fundamental to adhere to, the choice not to is eventually futile. It's still important to hear other peoples experiences."  At the beginning of 2013 I made a video that chronicled the purpose and history of Breath Of Life Daily. Three of My greatest lessons  or "aha moments" from 2012 were shared. Stay Motivated!!

Lessons From Breath Of Life Daily (2012) Review

1.) Take Action.

Words do count, but most of the time action matters more. Actions themselves are a form of speaking, and they do speak louder than words. At the end of the day what someone established will last a lot longer than what they said. This is a lesson I really had to take to heart being a Writer and in the publishing field. Sometimes we even feel like if we just "thought" about something we've actually done it. There has to be consistent work effort to achieve our goals. People won't always remember what we said, but what will always remain is what we did. What monuments and legacies are you building?

2.) Stay Organized.

Being so busy "taking action" can sometimes be time consuming, and if we're not good managers, we will neglect the small details or fall behind in the minor maintenance of our life. Good Time management is a major benefit. We have to know how to allocate and assess whats important for our lives if we want to succeed in purpose. 

3.) Honor God.

We can be the best managers ever but still some things in life are out of our control. It's best to trust God in everything! Communication counts, and it clarifies purpose much better.

Go Forth In God's Love!!!

Valentine's Day Victory: One (POEM) Inspired by Real Love

Celebrating love all year round' is good, but  there's one special day in the United States that romantic love is heavily venerated. Inspired by love, empowerment, and a true story of overcoming obstacles in a long-term relationship, in this piece Writer Carmen Fletcher shares her heart with her boyfriend of 7 years, Rashad.

Through every struggle they always find their way back to a stronger, adventure filled love. Carmen Inspires us through her words and love that a true blessing from God. we must "Never Let Go".

Hold on to your faith and to true love when you find it!

Enjoy!

No one has ever given me the surging power from head to toe that makes my heart skip beats and my spirit glow out of the darkness that I’ve only known from childhood and now when I’m grown…

Love that thing Everyone kept telling me about that made me stronger than I’ve ever been, seeing the world in a better light that saved me from the unholiest of sins.

 Victorious moments are so much more fulfilling when I look at the pride in your eyes knowing that is emerging from the very spirit that you share with me Every night when your lips touch mine and follow with a laugh and smile that could stop the world for a peaceful moment. 

I fearfully and foolishly tried to Run away from the bondage of this feeling that made the whole person that my heavenly Father destined for me; a successful being that purposefully Leaves a mark on the world that will change its rotation from a path of destruction.

 I am no savior and will never Ever be but you invoke the strength in me to hold my head high when my body crumbles, and when my body is able to stand the worlds demands nothing stops you from standing next To me. 

My Gratitude for the presence of this unnatural feeling that has commanded my thoughts, my words, my actions, and redirected life’s meaning can be spoken, screamed, sung for heaven and earth to hear about the Overabundance of power that flows through my joyous tears and has bound our spirits through our interlaced hands and made a promise so dear to Never Let Go.

-Carmen Fletcher  is a Public Relations manager and writer that willingly shares her perspective on life, love, and more through poetry, testimonies, and inspirational stories. She has contributed to the book Super Singles Activate! Testimonies to Inspire and Uplift the Single Woman and is currently working on several books of her own. She is also the organizer of the Rise Above Campaign featured on the fan page of inspirational book Yes! Confess Success www.facebook.com/YesConfessSuccess

photo credits: boujbuzz

                   suprisebaba