How are You Perceived

There is a definite distinction between having confidence and being arrogant. Sometimes we tend to think more highly of ourselves due to certain accomplishments in life. The completion of a Bachelor of Science or Masters Degree program, the purchase of a $200k home, a luxury vehicle or even a promotion call allow some to believe they are above reproach by those they deem less significant. While all those milestones are definitely applaud worthy, they do not put you in a special line for God's grace. Do not get me wrong God does know and want the best for you.

According to Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Remember until you break pride, you will not develop faith. And when you show all you have, that is all you are worth. God expects you to use your success to help others, not tear them down. Just in case you did not know arrogance is one of God's strong dislikes.

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

You Don't Know Me

Behind a sea of unknown faces I emerge, and I see scared people

Afraid to pass me on the street as if the plague they think I have
will mysteriously leave my body and permeate theirs

They say in order to know someone's story, you would have to walk
a mile in their shoes

You cannot even begin to know the places I have traveled in these
worn and tattered shoes. And if my soles could talk it would definitely
bring tears to your eyes

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord, but they have
also seen the bones of those the devil has discarded

I have seen and experienced more than most of you will experience in
your entire lifetime, and I am only sixteen

So don't give me your woulda, shoulda, coulda and whoa is me stance
you have no idea of the mentality I have from living on these streets
and the dirt that stains my hands

You drive by in your fancy car to your house up on the hill, and I am
picking up loose change trying to pay for what may be my last meal

My life has been hard, but I am not the begging kind. The next time
you look in your sons and daughters eyes, think of the fear in mine

Believe it or not, I am more afraid of you than you should ever be
of me

The difference between you and I is that Christ lives in me and that
you probably would not understand

You have no idea about God's love because you are unwilling to lend
me a hand

So instead of you judging me by circumstances you just don't know,
I'm placing the ball back in your court

Because contrary to your belief I'm not your average Joe

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

What Does Your Life Say

I've been looking at life through rose colored glasses and it's changing the perception of my reality

I've become unfamiliar with my surroundings, and the question is "should I be?"

It's as if everything is moving in slow motion and I press fast forward to reach the place I am destined to be

The struggles are many but I except the challenge of becoming a better me

My eyes remain closed to block the pain of the past that I'm afraid to allow you to see

My mind is cluttered with images of those who have previously passed judgment on me

Truth be told if our deeds were measured you'd be the peasant and I'd be the queen

God has shown favor over my life even though my faith wasn't always there to see

The scars I have are signs that haters still exist and will attempt to crucify me just as they did JC

But knowing where my faith lies will give me the opportunity for testimony

My trails are an indication that God is preparing to elevate me

Be careful not to get swept up in my dust because the devil will be forced to flee

Don't question what you don't know, if in doubt education is the key

Don't waste time on causes that only promote your vanity

If God called you home today what would be printed on your obituary?

Would your life have been one of glamor or of great sacrifice?

It would be nice to be known for more than just living your life


Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

After Thought

Love is that tender feeling that can only be captured by the pain of knowing

you are the only one that can bring me to tears.

I often envision what my life would be like if we had actually taken the time
to pursue the love we both so desperately needed.

The smell of your masculinity overpowers my desire to think rationally. Your
touch is like consuming a controlled substance that is no longer available for
refill.

I find the thought of you utterly intoxicating. Like consuming a fine wine
allowing the taste to role across your palate and bring delight to an otherwise
prosaic situation.

Sometimes I get so caught up in the past that I began to question my reality.

I get caught off guard by visions of the future because the portrait we created
no longer includes your silhouette.

My mind is overtaken by images of uncertainty, and I can not seem to release
the treasures that are prohibiting my desire for rebirth.

I pray for God to release me from exile, but for now He see's fit to allow me
time on this deserted island to sort through this maze of emotions.

I have often heard the phrase "what doesn't kill you will make you stronger."
But if death is already upon you, how is it possible to regain your strength.

I find solace in knowing that one day I will have the pleasure of being
introduced to the one person that speaks my love language fluently.

Once the tide rises up and washes the sand through my toes, I will anticipate
the revival of new life.

If I tilt my head just right, I can catch a glimpse of my future in the distance.

As the new portrait is unveiled I stand firm in knowing I am alive, I am loved
and I am free.

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0 ©

Think Big

Have you ever wondered why it seems some people have the continuous hand of God working in their life, despite their circumstance? That is because they have learned to allow God to direct their path, to begin walking in their purpose. Faith in God requires a great deal of patience. When praying to God, don't assume the answer is no because you do not get an immediate response. Once God has given you your purpose, you are then given a vision. Remember vision is defined as the act or power of anticipating that which will or may come to be. So think big. Any vision that you can accomplish without God's help is too small. When God makes your purpose plain he is expecting you to follow his lead, because he is prepared to assist you with accomplishing unbelievable odds. When you see someone achieve the impossible, know that God truly shows favor to those that are faithful. Do not waste time reminiscing on deeds that did not come to pass. That just means God had a larger vision for you to follow. So study his word, listen for his voice, and follow his direction. He will never steer you wrong.

Job 5:8-10 But if it were I, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

Don't Fall Into the Trap

The devil has an uncanny way of getting us to view the hurtful situations we experience as God's way of not coming through for us. The devil uses this sly tactic to keep us bound and use and exploit us. We as the unsuspecting victim fall right into his hands and not only allow him to infect our life, but uses us to infect the lives of those in our inner circle. He also uses our desire for self absorbed fantasies to entice use to remain on his team. Sometimes we tend to seek instant results than to wait on God to handle the situation and bring about the correct end result. Did I also mention some of the pain and turmoil we endure is due to our own lack of patience. If you pray for God to change you instead of changing your situation, this will allow for the time it may take for God to bring you out of your wilderness. Be mindful the pain we may experience through each of our trials, are to strengthen us. God then is preparing us to have faith in him and begin to walk in our purpose. As we begin following God's direction, he expects us to use those same wilderness experiences to heal those that are in the same situations, or are about to go through them. So don't allow the devil to convince you to use your pain as a cope out. Keep in mind the one person that he is trying to pry you from, is the only person that can heal your pain and bring you through your situation.

Food for Thought: Did it ever occur to you that sometimes God may allow you to suffer in order for you to have no other choice than to depend on him?

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

No Shame No Gain

Sometimes as Christians once we are saved, we want all the glory of God's promise but are not willing to do the work required. God gives each of us a specific gift or talent. And yes he does expect us to utilize that gift to enhance the lives of believers as well as non believers. Every situation God has placed you in, brought you out of or kept you in for an indefinite amount of time was specifically for you to share with those around you in the form of your testimony. You are not immune from the snares of the devil. Reality is you will probably experience more turmoil than before you became saved. But in order for God to truly use you, and your purpose to be fully exercised, you must expose yourself to the level of intimacy that is most unbearable to you. Remember your pain will be someone's peace, and could very well be the difference in someone seeking God or turning their back on him depending on the particular trial they experience.

Romans: 12: 3-8

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

Fear Is Not An Option

There are times in our lives that embarking on new endeavors can be a bit scary. The concept that anything worth having, is worth fighting for can also be a bit overwhelming. Past experiences can alter our perception and keep us in a paralyzed state. The confidence we once possessed has been set aside and replaced by insecurity. We no longer have the drive to succeed, because we can not shake the fear of failure. This positions a dark cloud over our entire existence. Remember being a Christian does not remove you from the devils line of fire. Being a Christian enhances your awareness of GOD'S presence within you, and allows you to handle those situations head on and without fear. No one can alter the plans GOD has for you. But remember it is your responsibility to make good on the promise you made to GOD.

Deuteronomy 6:10-12
When the LORD your GOD brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you - a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant - then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the LORD, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

False Hopes

The past can sometimes creep upon us like an invisible fog, before a down pour of rain. For some the past has never left us. We blindly walk through day to day in a state of false reality. Our lives are filled with people, places and things that keep us connected to our past. Subconsciously we envision ourselves living this life, even though it does not exist. Because we are convinced all is well, we are not aware of the negative impact this has on everyone else around us. This can happen if a once thriving, and loving relationship ends abruptly. Because we want this relationship so badly, we hold on to anything and everything that had to do with that relationship. We see this as a chance to make amends and get things back on the right track. What we don't see is this state of mind is making it difficult for us to move forward and maintain a happy and healthy life. God does everything for a reason, even though He may never reveal them to us. What He does want us to do in our time of need is pray and rely on Him for continued strength and understanding. Anytime something hurtful occurs in our life, there is a tendency to over analyze to find an alternate solution that best suites our needs. The only answer to any problem is the answer God provides. In order for us to receive it, we must earnestly seek his will for our lives. This means we must continue to pray and study his word. By doing so, this keeps us in an intimate relationship with Him. He only has our best interest at heart, and believe it or not He will bring you through with minimal scars. So don't allow yourself to get swept into that world of false hope. Whatever God has for you, will be revealed to you at His appointed time.

Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Be Blessed,

Lady 4.0

Keeping the Faith

Today Pastor gave a dynamic sermon entitled "Doing the Dirty Work". One of the main points was "never allow Judas to keep you from serving God". Sometimes when our lives are altered by uncontrollable change of events, we can really lose sight of who is in complete control. Remember whatever God has allowed you to come through is your test for your testimony. Never allow yourself to be taken off course. God loved you so much which is why Jesus died to forgive you of your sins. Why is it so easy for the devil to infiltrate our minds when we are in our lowest valley? You would think we would be so caught up in the presence of God, we would not even entertain his advances. Going forward know that God is everywhere all the time, even if you are in your darkest place. There is always light at the end of the tunnel. Remember God's word is the truth. If you study it on the regular, the devil will have a difficult time of convincing you otherwise.

Food for Thought

Never allow anyone to put you in a compromising position. Stand up for what you believe in, and know GOD always has your back. So today live life as if you know you have FAVOR.

Food for Thought

GODS perfect will for your life is so evident, that the devil will always persuade you towards doubt to keep you bound. DO NOT FALL FOR IT! Just do your absolute best. Remember only you and GOD know if you really are.

Never Think He's Not Listening

Today I was speaking with a friend and she is currently going through a trial in her life. One of the questions that came up, was why isn't God speaking to her. I advised that sometimes God is speaking, but if there is a great deal of outside interference it is sometimes hard to hear him amongst everyone else. Then there are other times when he is just not ready because there maybe additional lessons to be learned. Either way God is always there listening. This conversation brought to mind something I shared at one of our women's brunches on last year, so I thought I would share it with you.

Life often put us in situations that based on our decision making can actively alter our progress. I have come to the realization that every experience we encounter, pleasant or otherwise is to build a foundation in which we can grow and strenghten our character. One of the hardest assignments to tackle is being a strong and powerful "Black Woman". In my many conversations with sisters of all ages I find most of us are unaware or have not tapped into our true purpose. We are quick to believe the stereotypical standard society has set for us. This puts us in the mindset that we cannot rise above our current circumstances. God derived a plan for each one of use when we were conceived in the wound. If you are in an environment that is surrounded by negativity it is almost impossible not to get swept away by it's overbearing hands. Sisters you owe it to yourselves to be and become the phenomenal woman God has created you to be. Challanges will arise but there is no reason to remain in any situation if you chose to be released. Of course that will require you to pray and seek God'd direction for your life. You will undoubtedly continue to be taunted by the words of those that know your past. This is because even though you are attempting to engage in a direct mindset and direction for your life, they will forever hold on to the person you were insteady of the person your are attempting to become. if you are going through a season in which God does not seem to actively have his hand over your life, I encourage you to remember the words below that ensures he does.

God Where Are You

Today I find myself wandering again about things from my past, I slide into my darkest place; you know the place no one else knows exist. Lord, I seek you in this place but are you listening? For if you are my Father and I am indeed your child, should you not keep my enemies at bay?

My life is a whirlwind of constant trials and tribulations GOD but I thought your saved me from all of that. I distinctly remember you say you will never leave or foresake me, did I misunderstand? Talk to me GOD I need to hear your voice.

I am drowning in a sea of desperation and I have yet learned to swim. My heart is heavy with despair and I just can not seem to see my way out. GOD touch me and hold me in this lonely place, rock me until the pain I feel no longer consumes me.

GOD I know I have disappointed you and there are things I have yet to do, but I am willing to take a stand and praise you in spite of my troubles. GOD when you speak to my heart; I hear but am afraid to move for fear of disappointing you again.

Then you remind me, my child (I AM) the giver of life. I gave my only son for you to be forgiven of your sins. I hear every prayer you pray. In order for (MY WILL) to be done in your life, as your FATHER I must sometimes let you fall. It is during those times that I am strengthening you and teaching you to rely solely on me.

Your trial will be someone else's treasure and your pain will be someone else's peace. Do not get discouraged if you can not feel my presence (I'M THERE). Do not give in to doubt when you do not hear my voice (I'M THERE). Do not allow the devil to convince you, you are no longer worthy of my love (I'M THERE). Do not let someone else's joy prevent you from continuing to praise my name (I'M THERE).

Just when you think the pain is unbearable and you are sliding down into the pit of darkness (I SAVE). And when you feel my arms of protection around you and you can distinctly hear my voice once again (I'M YOURS).

Lady 4.0 ©

Gods Plan is Sometimes Not Your Own

We are sometimes trapped by events from our past. Our logic is as long as we hold on to what use to be, it will be again. That can be a very dangerous way to live. You can not participate in the present, and hope to secure a worthwhile future by remaining in the past. Most of us use it as a crutch, because we are too afraid to step away from the familiar. We pray and ask God for guidance, while secretly longing to reclaim that place in time. We lose site of reality because we are investing time and energy on something that is no longer within our grasp. All the while God is waiting patiently. He listens to us over and over again yearning for us to desire more of ourselves. Until finally he can no longer stand to see us in such pain, that he takes the lead and grooms us for greatness. This does not mean we are willing followers. We question him as to why we are traveling this newly paved road. He responds by reminding us, that sometimes we have to journey a road less traveled to make our own mark, and not follow in someone elses footsteps. If you are uncertain of what Gods plan is for your life. you may waste a life time pursuing someone elses dreams.

A Word From God

I've often wondered what it meant to have God speak to you
If it was actually his voice you were hearing and what response he awaits from you
There are times when life unfolds with no regard to what you've planned
It's at that particular moment that Gods voice is close at hand
He shields you and he lifts you up and takes away your pain
He strengthens you and orders your steps because trials will come again
But the next time a trial arises the impact won't be as great
And the devil will be confused because he's only testing your fate
God is the one that saves your soul and allows your heart to breathe
God is the one who answers your prays when you're down on bended knee
Don't think just because you're in the midst of a trial the devil has it in for you
Some of the hardest times in your life are trails God puts you through
With every trial God breaks you down and builds you up again
He needs to know you have a faithful heart and on him you will depend
I'm not say this from what I've read or even what I've heard
My experience as long as I was faithful and even when I wasn't
God was always true to his word

Lady 4.0 ©

Reminiscing Soothes the Soul

God has a way of speaking to you that is unlike any other monologue you will ever experience. His words are kind and penetrates the depth of your soul. He listens to you sometimes without a response. Not because he does not have an answer, but because he has to allow you to meditate on the situation at hand. Lately I have been caught up with thoughts of my late grandson. My heart is filled with the joy of knowing he is in a place where pain is no longer his hindrance. I know God has chosen me for a journey that I have barely began to travel, and I anticipate every encounter with a fresh pair of eyes. The love you have for those that are no longer physically available to you, will forever remain a footprint in the halls of your heart. So on those days your heart yearns for them, let it. When you are traveling in your car and that song pierces your nerve and brings you to tears, let them fall. When you are absolutely convinced that you can not possibly survive another day of torment, you will. God will equip you with the needed strength to press forward for that day. Because hearts are healed one day at a time. Honestly there should be no rush to heal. God will let you know when you have reached that peak. While some of you may have never expired a loss of a loved one, there are many of you that are still waiting for the pain to reside. Stand firm in knowing God is your rock and he will stand for you and with you during you time of need. So for those of you that are aching remember God has claimed your angel because their services were required. Find joy in knowing the reunion will be all that you have imagined.

When God Calls Your Name

Today is as bright a day I have ever seen

The sky is as blue as the ocean at a distance

The clouds formulate a backdrop of absolute perfection

As I sit here and wait for God to call my name I am at peace

My mind reminisces and takes a look at the events of my life

I have no regrets because God held my hand through this journey

To some it may seem as if my journey has come to an end

When the reality is my journey has just begun

Because God has called my name

Lady 4.0 ©