When GOD Asks A Question

(When God Asks A Question ) by Tyler Perry

I just wrote this to a very dear friend of mine that is going through a tough time. I thought I'd share it with you too.

When I read the bible, I love when God asks a question. He doesn't ask for Himself. He already knows the answer. He asks us because he wants us to understand and get it.

He asked Adam, "Where art thou?" Sometimes we don't realize where we are in life and it takes the voice of God to remind us.

He asked Moses, "What is that that you have in your hand?" Many times the very blessing we need is already in our grasp.

He asked Malachi, "Will a man rob God?" It's so easy to give our time to everything but the work of The Lord.

He asked Ezekiel, "Can these bones live?" Sometimes you may think a situation in your life has died, but God is reminding you that it can live. It's not dead. It's not over.

He asked a lame man, "Wilt thou be made whole?" God already knows He has the power to deliver you but you need to want to be delivered.

He asked Abraham, "Is there anything too hard for God?"

Think about that as you're going through life. I don't care what it looks like. There is nothing too hard for God to do.

Praying for you today. Your friend and brother,
Tyler

-Tyler Perry

Motivation: Your Focus Promotes Fertility

"Wipe The Sleep From Your Eyes!!" 

I heard the clear authoritative command this morning  as I drowsily mumbled a morning prayer. When we hear His word we automatically become more alert, but a part of me still wanted to sleep. Even though I know the sleep that the voice of God was referring to wasn't simply the rest I had just woken up from. The clear indication in my spirit was that its best to be more alert in and about life all together. Basically: Get With The Program!! There is real work to be done. Waking up is Rising to the occasion. 

In a message shared by my mentor Coach Jennifer in her regular conference calls, she shared how God will deliver us from the snare. God will truly deliver us when we wake up, become focused in His will and be cognizant. Some things God will deliver us from, some things we have to deliver ourselves from! We can't fight oppression if we never put forth the effort. The battle is the Lord's, but if we listen closely He teaches our hands to war!  

The time of waiting, wanting, wandering gives us all the common sense and time we need to know that fulfillment does not come to us willingly! We have to go get it! Seek and you shall get it, ask and it will be given, knock and the door will be opened. What fulfills us and gives us true life is only known to be based in God or are the byproducts of our relationship with Him. Where are you getting your life from and what has it done for you so far? Experiencing the blessing is putting your heart and mind in the right place, and that means dwelling in the shadow of the most high!

(Philippians 4:6)

When we abide in the presence we are easily protected. True focus has the power to promote fertility (production) and results.

Remember the song: If you wanna be somebody, if you wanna go somewhere, you better wake up and pay attention. Well if you wanna be all that you can be, Wake up and Get With It!!

Stay Focused and you will maintain positive energy!


They will have no fear of bad news;
    their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord. - Psalm 112:7





References:
*Psalms 144:1
  Matthew 7:7
  Psalm 91: 1
  Psalm 112:7


- by: April D. Byrd

Testimony: Kelly Rowland's "Dirty Laundry"

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. - Romans 12:2

Last month, Essence Magazine's new September cover girl Kelly Rowland gave us a lot of insight into her personal life. Kelly Rowland has been in the news a lot lately dealing with the issues of her domestic struggle, violence, and self-esteem. While flipping through stations on the radio the track "Dirty Laundry" struck me as profound. Deep in the since that Rowland was telling a candid story in detail. She talks about her life immediately after her Destiny's Child band member Beyonce Knowles launched into solo super stardom. Rowland talks about being happy for Beyonce's Success, but also wondering what her next act would be, or who would really care. At the same time Kelly was in her crisis, she was in a relationship dealing with emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. 

(Excerpt:)

"And I was trapped in his house, lyin’ to my mama
Thought it could get no worse as we maximize the drama
Started to call them people on him (the police?)
I was battered
He hittin' the window like it was me, until it shattered
He pulled me out, he said, “Don’t nobody love you but me
Not your mama, not your daddy and especially not Bey” (Beyonce)
He turned me against my sister
I missed ya..."

It was the drama of it and behind it that made it engaging, a story being played out that the hearers got to listen to, a peep into her life behind the scenes. The story was a lot different from all the glitz and glamour that we're used to seeing with celebrities. One very noticeable thing about the star is she gives good face...whether it be for the cameras or for the public. Her beauty could easily let her pass for a Barbie Doll. However, the thing about Barbie Dolls is they are plastic and fake. Our lives become more substantial and authentic through divine purpose. Despite my admiration for the plot of the song, I noticed that by the end there was no triumph in the testimony. Yes, Rowland is successful in popularity, but how do we avoid toxic relationships like the one she noted? What lesson is there to be taken from it all? 

The song was intriguing because as people we love drama. Dirt and "dirty laundry" is what some media outlets thrive on. Its through the elevation of our spirits and our mindsets that we demand better for ourselves. Seeking God's understanding for us, is when we go in the right direction and make the best decisions for our lives.

"Come now, and let us reason together," says the Lord, "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool." - Isaiah 1:18


There is one source that can wash away the dirt and truly make us "clean inside". 

Keep The Faith!

Motivation: You Can Start Living The Dream

Moving forward requires three things: preparation, dedication and revelation. To succeed, you must depend upon God for direction daily. - Thomas Dexter Jakes

God created us and gave us dreams, goals, and aspirations. So who's dream are you living? It's easy to get caught up in the lifestyles of the rich and famous, although it looks nice its not always the ideal. 

Its not the best fit for everybody. The only way to know whats right for us personally is to acknowledge and connect with the creator. If you're not motivated to get up and pray and communicate with God routinely, chances are you won't be motivated for much else.

Prayer is the best thing to do regularly, it also builds a habit of consistency in other areas. The things that drive us, what we go after, and why we go after them will affect what we produce as well as the outcome we receive. Our motives directly affect what we produce. If were pursuing money just for the sake of having money, or a house just for the sake of having a house, then that's all we'll produce.  When we intentionally seek God first and go about our day in good spirit we reap all that comes with it. This notion has been personally tested and approved. I have realized how literally nothing goes right if I don't put God first, but the day goes superb when I do. 

Also, Scripture reads: ...seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. "All these things" include abundance on the greatest level and that is truly what "living the dream" is. God's dream for us is better than any dream we could ever imagine by ourselves, and when we stand behind that vision it becomes the motivating force that empowers our dreams and keeps us pushing through reality to achieve them. It is faith that makes the "in the meantime" moments so amazingly powerful. scripture reads: "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

If that includes money then so be it, but it also includes emotional intelligence, peace, and a personal G.P.S for your soul. It's putting God first that helps us stay motivated. The dream is not the glamorized, commercialized idea pop culture has in mind. It's a vision by the master of creation and the creator of everything good. There is no road map for life, but there is a guide to everything you've ever wanted or could ever dream. God's word is the fresh content daily. 

"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. 



-April D. Byrd

*Matthew 6:33
  John 10:10
  Jeremiah 29:11

BOLDTestimony: Shaun Marq Anderson

"*Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. * As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy." - James 5: 10-11

Shaun Marq Anderson who was once a troubled teen is now a respected Life Coach pursuing his Masters degree. Shaun boldly turned his tragedy into a triumph. In his own words Shaun shares how he went from being heavily stressed to strategically blessed with a few tips he picked up along the way.

From Janitor to Ph.D.: Tips for Turning Your Tragedy Into Triumph

This life can be marred with tragedies, regrets, and setbacks. Moreover, these obstacles can leave a person searching, hoping, and pleading for a break. But what if you can turn your tragedy into triumph, your pain into peace, and your setback into a setup for greatness? Take it from me, I have ridden the roller-coaster of life and I have decided to use my mistakes as a launching pad!

Years ago, one could have considered me as the stereotypical urban youth that gets plastered on mainstream media day-in and day-out: black, fatherless home, born into poverty, with no hope for the future. As a teen I began acting out, rebelling if you will, because of my familial and environmental circumstances. I could have gone down that familiar path of prison or death, but unbeknownst to me, there was a destiny for my life, a plan for a bright future that was in the works!

At 19 years old, I was a struggling college student looking to better my life. I needed a way to pay for my studies so I accepted a full-time janitor position at a local junior high school. As a result, I was a full-time student by day and a janitor by night: all in an effort to pay for my degree. Moreover, if anyone would have told me that between the ages of 19 and 30 that I would have completed my bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, worked a “good job”, fired from that “good job”, become homeless, penniless, car-less, rejected by friends/family, abandoned, depressed, become a motivational speaker, published a book, and currently pursuing a Ph.D., then I would have told you that you were crazy!

Although these times were very rough, it was a journey that I endured! Likewise, you must learn to endure your life’s struggles! Therefore, here is a list of things that must be done in order to turn your tragedy into triumph:

• There is always a light at the end of the tunnel – Yes, there is always a light, but you must sometimes remove your shades in order to see it. You see, when we constantly observe our problems, harping over them each and every day, you will never see yourself out of that particular problem! You must continue speaking positively because it will certainly propel you to a positive outcome! You will never reach the light with negativity leading the way!

• Value your small beginnings – Many people want greatness so badly that they try to achieve it quickly without a strategy. But let’s observe the farmer’s life! A farmer wakes up very early in the morning, digs the ground, plants the seed, and nurtures the seed every day from a sprout until it reaches its full potential! If the farmer didn't work the small beginning with consistency, he would have never seen the seed reach its full bloom! Yes there were days that the farmer didn't get up and yes there were days that he had to fight off weeds, birds, and other vermin, but he endured and the seed did as well! Work your small beginning consistently and it will pay off!

• Don’t let your past issues determine your destiny – As a youth, I was angry, upset, always lashing out, etc. because I was a scared kid missing a father! But my issues as a teen didn't stop me from seeing myself as a king, as a leader, as an intellectual, and as a mentor for the young black minds in this world! My past issues did not stop me from pursuing greatness!! Moreover, you must determine whether your past life will help or hinder your destiny! Will you use your past issues as a launching pad or as quick sand? Only you can determine this! But I believe in you and I believe you want better! Right?

• Follow your dreams despite what others say – During my journey “From Janitor to Ph.D.”, there were many people who tried to discourage me with their negative words. But despite their ignorance, I remained steadfast in pursuing my dreams. Often times we try to get people to understand the vision for our life. But here is the secret: Other people were never supposed to understand the vision for your life! So stop trying to seek their approval for your dreams! Go forth with your life without fear, without hesitation, and without negativity!

I hope these tidbits have helped you in any way. My journey has eradicated the myth of fatherless black boys who grow up to be delinquents! Remember, the race is never given to the strong or the swift, but to those that endure! You can do this! Now go forth and pursue your destiny!


*post originally published by Shaun King on Black Life Coaches.

How To Link Happiness To Success.

Linking your happiness to your success is a process that requires intentional strategy. Nothing works right without a plan... 

Do you ever feel like happiness is on the other side of all the work you’re putting in? We are programmed to believe success equals happiness. Shawn Anchor, CEO of Good Think Inc., researches positive psychology and explains why we have it all wrong. Evidently, the external world which includes, your job, family, and money only predict about 10% of your happiness. 90% of your happiness comes directly from what you feel at the moment. If success equals happiness, what happens when we are constantly achieving and setting new goals? The brain reaches success and then it looks for the next goal. According to Anchor, the brain is 31% more productive when a person is positive. When you are positive in the present moment, dopamine is released, making you happier and turning on learning centers in your brain. This means you are more likely to be successful if you are already happy. This makes perfect sense in theory, but how do we implement this in our everyday lives? Here are 3 ways to stay positive, after all your success depends on it.

1. Gratitude- Showing gratitude puts you in a position to feel good about your life and it can make someone else feel good in the process. Let someone know you appreciate them. Happiness is contagious, spread it when you can. Develop a weekly habit of reaching out to a person from your social media network. Engage and compliment them. If you see a post that caught your attention, thank them for sharing. More importantly, take time out to appreciate YOU! Life is not easy and you are still standing and pushing forward. Enjoy your accomplishments. Although you have your mind set on a future goal, take time to appreciate where you are right now. Remind yourself you deserve to be happy. There is no shame in appreciating who you are and what you have accomplished. This type of internal gratitude is a powerful tool to keep your mind on the right track.

2. Take control of your Thoughts- Make a conscious decision to control your thoughts. There is a constant dialogue going on in our heads. You are not giving yourself a fair chance if you are allowing your thoughts to torment you. We can’t stop the rain, but we can search for the silver lining. Don’t have a pity party when things are less desirable. Start conditioning your mind to search for positive thoughts. This type of mental discipline builds resilience. Dilemmas are opportunities to exercise your conscious thinking skills. Yes it takes a hell of a lot of effort to keep the negative out, but applaud yourself for trying. Keeping track of where you allow your mind to go and it can quickly become a habit.

3. Positive Influences- The easiest component to being happy is surrounding yourself with happy people. Stray away from negative people. We have all heard the phrase “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Be careful of who you give your time to. Energy is ever flowing whether it’s good or bad. Check out this clip of Shawn Anchor giving a inspiring message on happiness.

Success is getting what you want, Happiness is wanting what you get. You were made to be excellent, fabulous and successful on purpose. Intentionally changing your mindset will help lead you to happiness and success that is rightfully yours! Keep your mind focused and  Go for your success and Happiness today! You're worth it!!




*original post published on the Urban Realist.

God's Kingdom Royalty

All the best to Katie, Prince William, and little George!!

Let the kingdom kids arise!!... Recently the world got to meet a Kingdom kid. Social media, newspapers, the press and everybody was a buzz. Perhaps, America is still so infatuated with the royal family because there is a sense of nostalgia. The spirit of power, order, decency, and protocol is the excellency that God's people thrive on. 

No matter how far America's collective mind set may have strayed from it's mother land. Keep in mind that being God’s child makes one classified as a kingdom kid, full of power, grace and authority.  

“But you are a chosen people, a Royal priesthood  a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light." - 1 Peter 2:9

As the singer of the Lord reminded... No matter who or what we are we must praise!!




Have A Splendid Day and Go forth in the favor you rightfully own. Blessings!!


- April D. Byrd