Leading Hearts September/October 2016 Issue by Leading Hearts Magazine

FROM THE PUBLISHER

A PLACE TO BELONG

win. In the end, though, there was nothing left to do but use the power of our love to let go. In those final hours as our family gathered around, Laura clung to my every word as we did the hard work of saying goodbye. It was in those hours I began to tell her all that I knew of heaven. I told her that Jesus had prepared a house for her, a beautiful house already filled with loved ones and visitors whom she’d helped lead to Jesus. I described to her the joy she would have of being reunited with her beloved Grandpa and dear friends. But despite the fact her blood pressure plummeted and her temperature shot to over 107 degrees, Laura was afraid to let go, afraid of the crossing itself. I reminded her that when she was eight years old, she had given Jesus her heart and no power could take her away from Him. As peace flooded her precious face, I told Laura, “Jesus cannot wait to see you! He has sent an angel to give you safe passage. Your papaw is so excited you are coming!”

HOW GLAD I AM THAT THE LAST TIME I WROTE THIS COLUMN, I SHARED ONE OF MY BEST TREASURES WITH YOU: the supernatural love that my disabled daughter Laura and I have for one another.

Little did I know that in the hours that followed my expression of love for my child, Laura would begin to journey into the valley of the shadow. The journey started with what we thought would be a quick trip to the doctor’s office, but that quick trip resulted with the doctor ordering my beautiful child to be admitted directly to the ICU. For the next three months, Laura and I both fought for her life: I on my knees and Laura through her sheer will to stay with her family. It was a roller coaster battle we were sure that we would once again

At that moment, Laura smiled and slipped into eternity. It was Laura’s identity in Christ which gave her peace and the courage to step from this life and into the next. And what comfort I have in knowing that Laura is with Jesus now. This knowing is what turns my sorrow into joy, for my daughter has graduated to heaven! Her disabilities are gone! She is whole and healed at long last. If you are not sure if you know Jesus, I hope this issue of Leading Hearts encourages you secure yourself in the identity of a God who loves you more than you know. Also, please, for yourself and in honor of Miss Laura, visit the website she helped to inspire: www. GodTest.com. There you, too, can start the process of finding all you were meant to be in Christ Jesus. For belonging to Christ changes everything. S Love, LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD PUBLISHER, LEADING HEARTS MAGAZINE

EMPOWERING CHRISTIAN WOMEN FOR LEADERSHIP

LEADING HEARTS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 VOL. 3, ISSUE 4

EDITORIAL STAFF PUBLISHER....................Linda Evans Shepherd EDITOR/ART DIRECTOR. ....Amber Weigand-Buckley COPY EDITORS...............Julie Gillies & Tom Young ADVERTISING............ Linda Evans Shepherd & Angelina Locricchio EDITORIAL SECRETARY.....Angelina Locricchio CONTRIBUTORS..... Leigh Bennett, Lisa Burns Penelope Carlevato, Kathy Collard Miller, Michelle S. Cox, Robyn Dykstra, Sharon Norris Elliott, Pam Farrel, Karen Porter, Rhonda Rhea, Cynthia L. Simmons, Poppy Smith, Saundra Dalton Smith, Jennifer Taylor, Heather Van Allen and Karen H. Whiting

RIGHT TO THE HEART BOARD MEMBERS Linda Evans Shepherd (President), Dianne Butts, Sharon Norris Elliot, Kathy Collard Miller, Karen Porter, Rhonda Rhea and Carole Whang Schutter and Joy A. Schneider

INFORMATION Leading Hearts Magazine for Christian Women is published bimonthly by Right to the Heart Ministries 2016. ISSN 2380-5455 ADVERTISING | Display rates are available at leadinghearts.com. By accepting an advertisement, Leading Hearts does not endorse any advertiser or product. We reserve the right to reject advertisements not consistent with the magazines objectives. MANUSCRIPTS | Writers guidelines are available at leadinghearts.com. Leading Hearts | PO Box 6421, Longmont, CO 80501 phone: (303) 835-8473 | fax: (303)678-0260 email: lindareply@gmail.com MEMBER | 2016 Evangelical Press Association Award of Merit Winner All rights reserved. Copyrighted material reprinted with permission Photos courtesy of: barefacedgirl.com, Leigh Bennett, Robyn Dykstra, ICON Media Group, Dollar Photo Club, Deanna Leech Photography, Hoganson Media Relations, Kerry Kara Photography /KLS Photos & Imaging, Pixabay.com

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INGH to 95 E A R T 5 S 7 7 Mob for F ile Si R EE sterh ood Supp ort!

TABLE OF CONTENTS 7 5 SECRETS OF A

BAREFACED CREATIVE

8 PRICELESS 15 ROBYN DYKSTRA

THE WIDOW WORE PINK

18 YOU ARE WORTHY 20 GODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ENVELOPE 26 SETH & NIRVA THE IMAGE MAKERS

30 DIFFICULT PEOPLE 40 YOUR ROYAL LOWNESS

47 ARE YOU KEEPING

YOUR AUDIENCE AWAKE?

this issue

every issue #REALCHURCHladies 24 IN THE LEAD 32 LIFEBYTES 35 THE BIG QUESTION 36 HEALTH TRACKS 38 JUST 18 SUMMERS 39 PRAYER CIRCLE 42 REVIEWS 48 TRUTH

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FROM THE EDITOR

5 SECRETS of BAREFACED

creative

IF I HAD TO DESCRIBE HOW MY CREATIVE MIND WORKS, I WOULD SAY PICTURE A WHITE ROOM FULL OF BABOONS AND BUCKETS OF PAINT. Let them loose for about a good

30 minutes. Then let me go with a pencil to discover the shapes and pull the mural to the surface. Because for some reason, God has built in my mind the ability to extract meaning from the abstract and find random connections in the smallest details. And thank God for the perspective of my trusted cleanup crew that comes behind me to help me hone areas hanging out there, especially if I need the finished product to “translate to the masses.” If the message doesn’t have to translate, I use messy baboon paint room #2 which is left untouched by the world outside my mind. But you want to know a secret? I don’t have special “creative powers.” I just have incorporated some simple creative principles into my daily life. I want to share five of my Rules of a Barefaced Creative to help you become more confident as you discover and throw down your epic skills. 1. The Barefaced Creative must focus on the creative disciplines or creative play. This discipline means you have to take at least 15 minutes each day to do something creative that doesn’t relate to “getting a job done.” Doodle, write a random lyric, piece of dialogue or reflection, or do some Post-It origami. This activity keeps me tuning my creative spark plugs, even if it is unrelated to my “day job.”

2. Notice details. I call this Creative Scavenger Hunts. When you see creativity expressed in a way you admire DON’T COPY IT, COLLECT IT. Take your time, do your research and build an inspiration board. Let that be a springboard for creating something that is uniquely your own. Do you have an Instagram or Pinterest account? Instant organization! 3. Create for the sake of your soul, market to an audience of one. If it speaks to your heart, it can reveal some beautiful things about you and the God who is unraveling the bigness of His creative insight, inside you. 4. Put your work out there. In a world of social media, let your personal pages become the gallery where you display your work. Also find a group of creatives to share with. Yes, you will get haters, but you’ll also get some great insight on growing your gifts (and some thicker skin). All creatives need it. 5. The best kind of creative space is Barefaced Creative Space. This space gives me the room in my art for my humanity to shine through. Yes, others might refer to these anomalies as mistakes. Sometimes I purposely keep them just to stretch my ability to be ok with one of biggest creativity thieves—fear of judgment. In the guise of my barefaced humanity, I am released to embrace the freedom of “happy little accidents.” I’m praying this issue of Leading Hearts inspires you to embrace confidently all the priceless original beauty that God has planted in your soul—it’s up to you to let those blooms feel the sun. S Peace!

AMBER WEIGAND-BUCKLEY EDITOR, LEADING HEARTS MAGAZINE

BY LISA BURNS @ILOV2WORSHIP PROFILE CONTRIBUTOR

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JAMES STEVENS FIGHTS TO SAVE TWO YOUNG SISTERS AFTER HE DISCOVERS THEM IN THE BACK OF THE TRUCK THAT HE’S BEEN HIRED TO DRIVE CROSS-COUNTRY. Opening in theaters October 14, PRICELESS the movie will tackle the issue of human trafficking on the big screen. Leading in the film is none other than Joel Smallbone, a member of the two-time Grammy Award-winning music group for KING & COUNTRY. While Joel is known primarily as a musician, his debut role, portraying the movie’s male lead, showcases him as a multi-dimensional artist. And although many fans are familiar with the band’s song “Priceless,” not as many realize that the book and groundwork for the movie came before the song was ever penned. Joel recently took the time to talk to Leading Hearts about his heart behind this film debut.

Q. How does it feel to see the message of the song “Priceless” resonate with so many women? A. “Priceless” is the culmination of many years of

sharing a simple message that celebrates a woman’s worth and charges us as men to be chivalrous in how we love. In a lot of ways, we had wanted to write the song, but it eluded us until now. It’s a simple message and because of that, a little bit saddening: it feels like something we all should know. The response from young people has been astounding—they are starving for an understanding of who they are before God and how to interact relationally. It has been overwhelming for us as musicians to see people movingly respond to this message wrapped up in a song.

Q. From a man’s perspective, why do you believe women struggle so much with selfworth and image. A.The struggle has been passed down generationally. Also, in this modern age of billboards, magazines, social media, film and TV, image is so emphasized. The way women are portrayed is too frequently sensationalized or sexualized.

Naturally, the younger generation is looking for social cues from people they look up to, and they are finding their identity in what they see and experience. This carries over into school and life in general. In addition, men have in some ways requested that women dress, act, and interact with them in certain ways. I believe women are following these social cues from men as well.

Q. Most fans of for KING & COUNTRY are aware of your musical successes, but they may not be aware of your involvement in the film industry. Can you tell us how you started working in film? When did you begin acting? A. Luke and I are two of seven kids. Luke is younger

than I am, and Ben is older. When Luke and I weren’t making music, Ben and I were making short films or a mini-series together. When the band began, Ben would shoot our music videos. Ben and I have always dreamed about being involved together in a feature film. A few years ago I had the opportunity to dabble in a few feature-length films: a period piece called “The Book of Esther” and a country film (playing opposite of Billy Ray Cyrus) called “Like a Country Song.” When we looked at how the “Priceless” message was resonating, we realized there was something there— something significant that needed to be told. -continued on p.10-

-continued from p.9Our whole team and family, helped us to bring this message to light.

Q. So which “Priceless” came first? Was it the song or the film? A. The film and book came first; we didn’t anticipate

that we would ever complete the song. We wanted to, and we tried to. Then last year, by the grace of God, we looked at each other midway through working on a song and realized it was “Priceless.”

Q. A feature film is a massive undertaking. What made you decide to embark on the journey and script the movie? A.. Both the movie script and the book are extensions of the “Priceless” message that so deeply resonates with our community.

As young men on the journey of marriage and family, we want to understand what it means to love a woman by treating them with respect and protect our eyes. I talked to Ben about making a film on this topic. He recalled editing a documentary, a one-minute piece

on a man who had grown up in the world of slavery. His family was involved in recruiting slaves for prostitution and human trafficking. He shared that he had a massive conversion and used the system against itself to pull the ladies off the street. He ended up falling in love and marrying a woman he rescued from slavery. We married these stories together and handed off the synopsis to two screenwriters. We also decided to do a novelization of the film to give a deeper insight into the storyline and to allow people to get a glimpse of the movie before the release.

Q. Were there any challenges in playing the lead in the film? How did it change you? A. I play James Stevens, who has lived a very different

life from me. I am from Australia, but I had an amazing dialect coach to help me speak with an American accent, which was a challenging component. The most challenging piece was getting into his psyche and then being out every weekend as a musician. I didn’t have the privilege of just being on set for a month. I would be on set for 12 hours a day over five days and

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then catch red-eyes for shows. I dug into his character—his past, losing the love of his life to a tragic accident, failing to care for his daughter, having his daughter taken from him. I’ve never experienced those things. But I had to keep shifting in and out of it, which was exhausting. The most challenging part of his character was that he was the polar opposite of me.

Q. So, how did you end up working with Roadside Attractions on this production? A. Our marketing team wanted to go out to LA to

meet with Roadside. Ben and I were giddy, as we have been fans of their film style for years. I particularly loved Mud with Matthew McConaughey and Reece Witherspoon. We sent Steve Barnett, our producer (who also produced 300), out to meet them. I believe it was a Thursday, and they said they would get back to us at the top of the next week. That made for a stressful weekend for us! They got back to us on Monday, telling us they had not stopped thinking about the film, how much it had impacted them, and how they would love to be a part of it. It was arguably one of the biggest compliments having them join the

team.

Q. Realizing that healing needs to be part of who we are in church leadership, how can we better respond to the needs of those that have been victimized by the sex trade industry? A. Throughout history, the church has had a magnifi-

cent impact on culture, particularly with people in need. You pass church-based hospitals; it’s a novelty now. They were founded in, through, and by the church. Here we have an epidemic taking lives at a rapid pace and hurting families. The church has to adopt some of the same principles. We need to create experts in the field and the opportunity for people to lean in and get on street level to help by creating facilities and safe houses for recovery. We can lean in and expose the need, not glorify it. Rather, we present it to those in our sphere of influence and encourage them to step into the gap. S

Watch the trailer and get behind the scenes footage at www.pricelessthemovie.com.

#REALCHURCHladies

Robyn Dykstra

THE WIDOW WORE PINK

ALL MY LIFE Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;VE BEEN MESMERIZED BY FEMALE AERIALISTS, ATHLETES WHO PERFORM GRACEFUL DANCES OF BALANCE, STRENGTH, AND FLEXIBILITY ON THE TRAPEZE, ROPES, OR RINGS. AUDIENCES GASP IN AWE AND APPLAUD WITH DELIGHT AS WE WATCH LITHE WOMEN SPIN AND SOAR DANGEROUSLY HIGH ABOVE THE GROUND. -continued on p. 16-

-continued from p. 15-

Fear prevents most of us from ever attempting the elements of an aerialistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s routine. We appreciate them but are happy to sit in the bleachers and admire from a distance.

Consider the practice hours that an aerialist spends developing her natural talent. She has to work with trainers and technicians, nutritionists and a net. It takes a whole lot of support people for an aerialist to perform her act. The Body of Christ is supposed to cooperate like that. Throughout the Bible, God directs us to be willing to teach, assist, and support those who are weak, suffering, lost, uneducated, widowed, or orphaned. We get lost in the how-to. What does it look like to teach, assist, and support? The principle is pretty simple. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do unto others what you would have them do unto youâ&#x20AC;? (see Matthew 7:12). And love them as Jesus loves you (see John 15:12). But, as I look around at all the people in my life and the people I read about on social media, and the people I see on the news, it can be overwhelming to think about teaching everyone who needs correction or education. And how do I assist or support everyone who needs help?

Just do what you can, where you are, with what you have. I learned to follow this simple strategy by seeing it in action. I was widowed at 40 when my 39-year-old husband, Jay, died of a heart attack, leaving our two little boys and me alone. There had been no warning sign, no preparing for sudden singleness, no last words of advice or enduring love. He was gone in half an instant. It felt as if I had fallen off my trapeze.

One minute, I was twirling in the air, executing the routine of being a wife and mother. The next minute, I was free falling, flailing and grasping for anything to hold onto to soften my inevitable crash landing. Everyone around us gasped in disbelief. Instead of staying in their seats and watching from the sidelines, close friends and strangers alike streamed into our tragedy. None of them had been widowed. None of them knew

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what to do, so they did what they could. Through the prompting of the Holy Spirit and the instincts that come from being a woman, they used their gifts, talents, and resources—whatever they had to show me support and love.

helped me stay sane in my grief. But the knowing I wasn’t alone in my grief, alone in my singleness, alone with my decisions about parenting, finances, home maintenance and car repairs—that was beyond comforting. It was healing.

Some cooked our meals; some took my children for playdates; some sat vigil; some stepped in to hostess at the funeral. Everyone prayed.

Whenever life was overwhelming, I could see the safety net that God had slipped under me to keep from smashing into a million pieces. Pinned in place by His strong arms, held down by His love and mercy, decorated with His promises and undergirded by His people, I repeatedly fell into that net, not only to remain saved, but safe.

Over the next year, I found gift cards for oil changes, to restaurants, and grocery stores in my mailbox. Someone provided a snow plow service. Another invited us all over to carve pumpkins at Halloween. Several took me out for my birthday. One sent flowers every three months with a card that said, I’m remembering you. I know it was awkward for some to enter into my pain; they didn’t know what to say. Some did say the wrong thing, but most simply said, I’m sorry this is your life right now. How can I help? Those words were music to my ears. I didn’t want pity; I needed sympathy.

I didn’t want to ask for help, but I couldn’t manage my life without it. I knew God’s promises concerning widows and reminded Him of each one. Bible verses of comfort flooded my mind and were the foundation that

When you find yourself suspended in a precarious place, know that God will slip a net beneath you. Look for it. When you see someone free falling, listen for how God prompts you to teach, assist, or support them. Heed the nudge. Write a check, make a call, pray like someone’s life depends on it. Bake a casserole, write a letter, or volunteer for a cause. You can’t solve every problem or save everyone who needs help. Just step out of the bleachers and do what you can, where you are, with what you have. S For more of Robyn’s story visit her at www.robyndykstra.com .

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#REALCHURCHladies

YOU ARE WORTHY HAVE YOU EVER QUESTIONED YOUR VALUE? WITHOUT A DOUBT, I CAN SAY THAT I HAVE! As followers of Jesus, knowing our value in Christ is not just foundational, but it is extremely crucial as we walk out God’s plan for our lives.

I wear several different hats in my everyday life. They range from wife, mom, worship leader, friend, encourager—the list goes on. In every one of these areas I daily have to remind myself of one thing: I am valued by God! Why? Because as human beings, we tend to build our perception of ourselves on what others have said about us instead of what God says.

Can I tell you something? It takes faith to

believe what God says about who we are. It’s a choice. It’s not a feeling, because feelings aren’t reliable, and they are not always grounded in truth! We have to take hold of the truth of who God says we are and be ruthless with it. Otherwise, wrong thoughts, false perceptions, and what others think of us can sway us. I remember when I was 24 years old and had the opportunity to be the full-time worship leader at a previous church. Being so young in such a valued position, I questioned my ability to lead these people who were considerably older than I was. As if I didn’t know it was going to be a challenge, someone said to me, “You think you can lead these people that are older than you?” In my head, I was thinking, “Well, I thought I could until you just said that.” Looking back it’s funny, but that one statement magnified the doubt I was already feeling. I knew God had called me to lead and that He was going to help me. Thankfully, soon after that encounter, a close pastor friend encouraged me with 1 Timothy 4:12:

“Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity” (NLT).

Thank goodness for friends that speak the Word over us! The Lord’s Word counteracted that one negative statement and was the final voice of truth for that situation.

We leaders are called to help protect the life-giving culture on our teams and in our churches. To do that, we have to remember that we can’t let opportunities, missed or given, define our value.

The lesson learned at that moment: My value isn’t wrapped up in what others say about me.

I’ve had to fight these thoughts on many occasions: “Did they not think I was good enough? Why didn’t I get that opportunity? Do I need to do something different to make that opportunity open up for me?”

God says so much more about who we are in Him: • • • • •

We are a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) We have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16) We are extravagantly loved (John 3:16) We are the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21) We have the victory, and we are overcomers (1 John 4:4)

NO is the answer. We can’t let our minds go there

because it’s not healthy, and it’s not beneficial to our teams. It’s a poison that will pollute anything it touches the more we give place to it.

And that’s just a few Scriptures. There’s so much more! Once we have a healthy perception of our value in Christ, we can begin to add value to other people around us.

Always remember that it’s what God says about us that is the most important, not the opinions of man. Today if you find yourself giving more thought to what others are saying than what Jesus says about you, just know it’s never too late to start thinking differently.

No matter what team you’re a part of at church, knowing who you are in Christ is so important.

We must renew our minds daily with His Word, and let His voice be the sound in our hearts. Then, and only then, we can rest in knowing our value. S

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“I am simply an envelope! He is the message; I just have to carry it. “ —Pam Farrel

www.Love-Wise.com

In a world where most of us communicate electronically, it is a joy to receive a greeting card in the mail. Often, in a sea of white business envelopes, the brightly colored envelope of a card or an invitation is the first clue that something special is inside! Yes, envelopes are vital, because however beautiful the card or however encouraging the message, the card couldn’t arrive at my home or yours without the envelope it came in. I always try to pray with the leadership teams at the churches I speak in before going to the platform. While in Missouri, one of the women prayed, “Thank You, Lord, for the message Pam is about to deliver to our hearts. Thank You that she is an envelope for Your message of hope and encouragement.” I thought, Yes! I love it! I am simply an envelope! He is the message; I just have to carry it. Just like envelopes, women come in all shapes, colors, and sizes, but we are all still envelopes. There is no Envelope Hall of Fame and no envelope IQ test. Every envelope is important because we all carry the message of the hope, freedom, peace, and joy found in a personal relationship with God. You are “wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) for “such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). There is no need to compare or wish you were another envelope. God

created you to be you, the perfect envelope to deliver His message through you at this time in history simply by being the wonderful you that He created!

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered In 2 Corinthians 3:2-3, the apostle Paul says:

“You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.” You are a letter. Every day, in every way, believers’ lives are being read by others. Age isn’t a factor in our worth to God, and neither is size, shape, color, or how speedy we are at accomplishing our calling. We’re all envelopes carrying a valuable, needed message to the world where we live. The more I thought about that analogy, the more I liked it. So in my book, 10 Best Decisions a Woman Can Make, I try to capture the variety of women and our callings in a light-hearted way, comparing us to types of envelopes. Some of you are: • Bright: Picture an array of neon, lively and cheerful envelopes. Some women are like these positive and perky women. They are a party ready to happen. • Businesslike: Some women are like letterhead: professional, practiced and most concerned about making life function effectively.

-continued on p. 23-

-continued from p. 21• Beautiful: Other women are more like those elaborate and detailed invitation envelopes, the ones with an artistic flourish on the outside that you might pick up at a fancy stationery store. • Basic: Some women might say, “I am just ordinary, like a plain, but functional manila envelope.” But just think, some of the most important documents are sent in these envelopes. • Bountiful: Others, like me, might add jokingly, “I am more like those padded bubble wrap envelopes!” So you have a little padding on your body; every woman feels she has some imperfection. Don’t let any insecurity stop you from living out your calling! Remember, the most treasured gifts are usually sent in these kinds of envelopes! • Busy: Some of you are like Priority Mail, FedEx or UPS airmail envelopes—you just do things faster than the average gal. No matter what the envelope looks like on the OUTSIDE, God sees each of us more like the INSIDE of an amazing, celebratory wedding invitation envelope. We may be various colors and styles and have a variety of passions, but inside, when an envelope is opened, we are lined with gold leaf, indicating just how precious God sees each of us.

Free to Be Me— Free to Be You! It’s so easy to forget the freedom we have in being God’s envelope. One of my responsibilities as a writer is making media appearances. One year Bill and I were to appear on a national television talk show. As with all television appearances, each guest takes a turn in the makeup chair. This is never my favorite part because I struggle with acne. I’ve been under a doctor’s care for it since I was 16. I often tease that I have the perfect face for radio! Anyway, I sat down in this makeup artist’s chair, and she said as she stared into the mirror, “You don’t have a happy face.”

“Actually, I am very excited about today. This is a wonderful opportunity.” Then I smiled. “No, you do not have a happy face.” Now at this point, I knew she was talking about my skin. She began the usual battery of questions and suggestions all the while reminding me that I didn’t have a “happy face.” Well, inside I felt emotions rising, but I didn’t want to cry because then I’d have to sit even longer and have my makeup redone! When she was called by the host of the show into the next room for a brief moment, I looked at my “not-so-happy” face in the mirror. Lord, this is really hard to hear. It’s doing nothing for my confidence. Please help me get my focus off my not so “happy” face! Okay, God, why did I come? To show my face to 60 million viewers? No. I have Your message to deliver. This is not about me; it’s about You. It’s about Your message. Then I looked at my face again. Lord, I think I look pretty good for an envelope! That moment, I was reminded God had chosen me for this task. He chose me to be His envelope, delivering His message! So I did! And so, even today, I do bravely, confidently, and courageously look forward to each and every postmark that will be stamped on me as God’s envelope. God has a message ONLY you can deliver, and it is just by being wonderful YOU— God’s envelope! S

“We may be various colors and styles and have a variety of passions, but inside... we are lined with gold leaf...” —Pam Farrel

www.Love-Wise.com

IN THE LEAD

us TOGETHER

BIND

transform your church

BY KAREN PORTER @KARENPORTER www.karenporter.com

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She answered, “When we moved to the new location, we prayed that men and women and children from every background would join with us and that the congregation would start to look like heaven.” Her answer leads us to a convicting question. Many of us would say that we want racial and cultural diversity in our church, but we haven’t prayed for it. Jesus offered salvation to all people and put His church in place so that we could gather together in worship and service. We have kept a tight circle around us and typically worship with those who are the same as we are. The writer of the Book of Hebrews said,

MARTIN LUTHER KING ONCE SAID, “THE MOST SEGREGATED HOUR IN THE WEEK IS THE CHURCH HOUR ON SUNDAY MORNING.”

Unfortunately, this statement is true in many churches—even 56 years after Reverend King made the statement, But not so at the church I attend. Every row is filled with black, white, and brown skin tones and people from countries of origin as diverse and different as Asian, Indian, African, European, Yankee, and Southerner. Our church began in an area of town where white-collar, highly educated professionals lived. I remember visiting the congregation when it was not always so diverse. Later, when the church moved from that neighborhood location to a more visible location on a major interstate, the congregation took on a new look. I asked the senior pastor’s wife if she knew what had started this major and happy change.

“And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds” (10:24, NASB). Following this idea of helping and encouraging others requires us to reach out beyond the four walls of our church.

Let’s Talk

1) What do you think is the most important step you can take to help develop cultural and racial diversity in your church? 2) Which of the ways listed in the article could you use to reach out to those beyond the walls of your church or organization? 3) What are some obstacles to reaching out? 4) How can you overcome those obstacles? S

Seth&Nirva

“When we behold Christ, He imparts His image.”

—Nirva

WHEN SETH AND NIRVA’S ALBUM NEVER ALONE RELEASED MAY 27, THE HUSBAND-AND-WIFE DUO COULD NOT HAVE IMAGINED HOW GOD WOULD USE THEIR MUSIC FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS. Long before the recent shootings across the nation tore division, Seth and Nirva recorded their song, “Brother,” featuring TobyMac. As the tension began to rise, they recorded a special mix featuring GabeReal that many Christian radio stations immediately started playing. The powerful lyrics, “When I look into the face of my enemy I see my brother,” were words the nation needed to hear during the time of tragedy. Married ten years in July, the Readys met at a Billy Graham Crusade while Seth was singing background for Kirk Franklin and Nirva was singing with TobyMac. A mutual friend introduced them and hired them to do background vocals later that year in Dallas. They became friends, and the rest is history as the saying goes. After years of doing projects with other artists, they met a music producer while ministering in Florida. They recorded an EP that later found its way to Integrity Records. “They called us, shared their hearts and we fell in love with them and ended up signing a record deal,” Nirva says. “I think God is

more brilliant than we are at planning our lives.” Seth classifies their music as “urban contemporary worship” with influences of soul, gospel, and pop with a dash of hip-hop. “The biggest thing we hope people walk away with is a confidence in God,” he says. “He’s on the move. We have not been abandoned. He is still doing things on the earth, and His Kingdom is advancing and because of that, we do not have to give in to fear. We can stand strong, encourage one another, and build the Kingdom of God right where we are.” As a biracial couple, Seth and Nirva are breaking barriers with their identities and testifying as they triumph. “No matter the culture you come from, no matter the socioeconomic background or influence, I think your real identity is hidden in Christ. Colossians speaks about that,” Nirva says. “The more you learn about God, the more you learn about who you are, and the more He fashions you as you gain a footing for knowing who you are and your purpose in life. Then, you can chime into His Kingdom and take your place.” Now knowing her identity in Christ, Nirva realizes that during her times of struggle, she had her eyes away from Christ. She let her personal life depend on the coolest, latest or culture to define her. “I used to have a mentor that would tell me, ‘You become what you behold.’” Nirva continued: “When we behold Christ, He imparts His image. We are made in His image anyway, but we have a lot of learning and training to do and grasp to understand that. It’s not always a zapping, but it’s learning, training, and abiding that’s helped me.” As former young adult pastors, the Readys see the struggle for identity in culture today and hope their music will encourage listeners to stand strong in Christ.

-continued on p. 29-

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-continued from p. 27“In our culture, we have lost identity,” Seth says. “I think as human beings, when we have lost sight of God and Who He really is, then we lose sight of humans and what we really are. Theology grounds our anthropology. As we understand God, then we understand human nature better.” In the title track of the album, the lyrics say, “We are never alone. We are a generation. We are not ashamed. We are not afraid. We are not forsaken.” Knowing their identity, Seth says they want to encourage others not to back down to cultural pressure. “We are going to stand strong with firm convictions but soft edges and kindness and compassion towards those who disagree with us.” To find courage, Nirva encourages others to dig into His Word and realize that courage comes from God. “Take a chapter of Scripture and just really dig in, anything about what you are walking through. Let the words jump off the pages and into your soul,” she says. “I think that can be transforming; it can turn a coward into the most courageous person. It takes time. I encourage them to take the time to nurture the soul and the spirit. That can supply the courage and strength to endure, to represent Christ well and not despair. Life can be despairing without the undergirding of the Word.” Seth notes that people can try in their own power to be strong and brave, but it will last for a moment; it

cannot endure over time. So he looked at how the disciples became brave. “It was a combination of sitting under Jesus’ teaching for a long time and the Spirit’s power in their lives; that combination is powerful.” To learn more about Seth and Nirva, visit their website sethandnirva.com, follow them on social media, and find their music at Christian retailers and iTunes. S Be sure to follow Seth and Nirva on all the social media outlets for their new album news. For more information, visit her at www.sethandnirva.com/.com. BY JENN TAYLOR @JENNTAYLOR417 PROFILE CONTRIBUTOR --------

DIFFICULT PEOPLE

TIRED AND JET-LAGGED, I WAITED FOR MY TURN TO SHOW MY PASSPORT TO THE IMMIGRATION OFFICER AT O’HARE AIRPORT. L’d been up for 24 hours and had another 4-hour flight ahead of me to Oregon. Seeing no one at the open booth or coming from another area, I walked forward and produced my passport.

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The female officer took my passport, stared at me, told me to look at the camera, and then launched her attack! “You should not be in this line,” she lectured me. “You’re not at the right booth. Can’t you see that people from that other line come to this booth?”

anger” (NIV). Remember your tone of voice makes a powerful statement. It can be sarcastic, irritated, or accusatory. To defuse a conflict, lower your voice; be conciliatory instead of harsh.

I apologized, saying I didn’t see anyone coming, so I thought it was okay to step forward.

tion justified? Or do I just want to blow off steam?” (For more help in handling personal conflict, see my book, Why Can’t He Be More Like Me?)

“Well, it isn’t,” she retorted. Then she got personal as I listened in amazement. “You’re intelligent,” she said. I wasn’t going to argue with her observation and retorted, “Yes, I am.” “Then next time you should know better,” she snapped, handing me my stamped passport. “And maybe next time there will be a sign telling me where to go,” I replied as I took my passport and walked away. Whew! What a welcome home!

Proverbs for Potentially Ugly Situations Thinking about this incident, I have to admit it made me laugh. I never expected to tangle with an official at an airport—that’s not my style. I’m a Bible teacher, not out to create conflict. But on reflection, I asked the Lord what would help me the next time—and what might help you. Four practical and scriptural responses to difficult, grumpy people came to mind. Each one is from the powerful life-coaching Book of Proverbs and will help you handle potentially ugly situations.

1. Control Yourself! Proverbs 11:12b: “The one

who has understanding holds their tongue” (NIV). As soon as you sense conflict, consciously take a deep breath and mentally step back from the issue. We’re to live a life that is worthy of our calling; that means choosing to be humble and gentle, patient and forbearing with difficult people (Ephesians 4:13). When we ask for those qualities, the Holy Spirit gives them—right there in the moment—helping us hold our tongues!

2. Give a Soft Answer. Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle

answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up

Ask yourself: “What is this about? Is my reac-

3. Should You Speak Up or Shut Up?

Proverbs 10:31: “The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom” (ESV). There are times to forbear with someone’s negative attitude and recognize we are all human, we all get worn out and frazzled, and that giving grace and understanding is a powerful witness to Christ living in you. However, there are times when a truth or principle must be upheld and speaking up is needed to help the person involved recognize that their attitude or behavior is harming even them. In that case, it is a loving (although difficult) step to take—but let me encourage you to pray, seek God’s wisdom for what to say, and wait for the right time. “The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable” (Proverbs 10:32, ESV).

4. Remember You Represent Christ. Proverbs

29:23: “Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor” (NIV). When we feel disrespected or mistreated, it is easy to react from our old nature and respond in the way we are being treated. In doing this, we forget that we are God’s temple and God’s Spirit lives in us (1 Corinthians 3:16). We are Christ’s ambassadors, His representatives to this world. As we encounter grumpy or rude people, we have both the responsibility and the privilege of responding in ways that bring calm, respect, and healing of conflicts (2 Corinthians 5:17-21).

Consider this: Do you encounter difficult people

in your work, in your family, or in rushing through daily life? Take some preventative steps and pray about how the Lord wants you to represent Him. Thank Him for His power that will enable you to calm down and say what honors Him. S BY POPPY SMITH @POPPYSMITH www.poppysmith.com

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â&#x20AC;&#x201D; t h g u o h t r o f food LIFE BYTES BY PENELOPE CARLEVATO @TEATIMEPEN www.PenelopesTeaTime.com

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A SEASON for PRUNING

WHEN WE MOVED INTO OUR HOME ABOUT FOUR YEARS AGO, I LEARNED HOW TO PRUNE AND CARE FOR THE ROSES PLANTED BY THE PREVIOUS OWNER. {32.} - -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

In order for my husband and me to enjoy them as much as we do every summer, I’ve come to realize I need to cut away the dead blooms and trim the foliage However, pruning is not just for producing good-looking rose bushes. If properly pruned, the plant will be healthier, stronger, have less disease, and produce more flowers. Pruning is essential and beneficial. Last week I was asked to join a ministry that is near and dear to my heart. I felt honored and excited that they had considered me, but I was also concerned about the time and energy involved. Could I squeeze in one more thing and be effective? Is this where God wanted me to serve? As I sought God’s direction before giving my answer, I spent time in reading God’s Word, praying, and also asking the counsel of my husband and two godly women in my accountability group. I wanted to be obedient and fruitful—grow more roses in my life. As I contemplated this invitation during my pruning time in the garden, I realized God was showing me a very practical example. I needed to “cut,” not add more activities, even though being involved in this ministry was a “good” thing. If I am to be productive in the areas God has called me to minister, I had to prune. Those branches that weren’t producing roses, but were taking nutrients away from the productive branches, had to be removed. Then the larger branches could grow stronger and produce more flowers. I could no longer graft in more branches; I had to cut. God is gentle in His pruning. Just as I used pruning shears and not a chainsaw with my roses, God also uses circumstances, His Word and other people to prune us.

connected to the vine so that our lives reflect Him. It may hurt, but we will look back and be thankful for Him removing something from our lives that was not producing fruit. We rejoice when we realize He is more concerned with our character than our comfort. Speaking of good fruit, I wanted to share one of my favorite fruit tart receipes this month—Easy Berry Tarts. There are many variations, but I think you will enjoy this one. Any fruit or a can of fruit pie filling will work. This is such an easy recipe to prepare and serve when the kids come home from school. Serve with a nice cup of herbal tea and let your children share about their day.This is also a fun dessert to prepare for a luncheon or dinner party. You can also find this recipe in my children’s book, First Class Etiquette.

Easy Berry Tarts 2 c. Strawberries, Raspberries or Blueberries (or a combination of all three) washed and hulled. Prepackaged Tart Shells Whipped Cream or topping • Place berries in tart shells. • Top with whipping cream. • Add a piece of fruit and a mint leaf on top for garnish. Enjoy!

In John 15:2, Jesus says, “Every branch in

Me that does not produce fruit He removes, and He prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit” (Holman Christian Standard Bible). God loves us too much to let us grow in the wrong direction or be unfruitful. We need to stay

Find great receipes like this in Penelope’s new book: The Art of Afternoon Tea: From the Era of Downton Abbey and the Titanic.

(Available from PenelopesTeaTime.com)

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— e m i t t abou

LIFE BYTES

BY KAREN WHITING @KARENHWHITING www.KarenWhiting.com

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HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS grandfather’s cabin in the woods. Every visit a special memory was created so I want to do the same for my guests Even my pantry and freezer brings a sense of family to guests. It’s always packed with bread that can be quickly thawed and ingredients to prepare a comfort meal for unexpected company. Here are some things you might want to consider when thinking about your next room makeover: • Your home should reflect your identity with favorite colors and meaningful décor. Consider how creatures, designs, or even a special theme can reflect an aspect of you and your identity in Christ and ministry focus.

I’VE ALWAYS DESIRED THAT THE DÉCOR OF MY HOME BE SOMETHING MORE THAN BEAUTIFUL SPACES. That’s why I purposely shaped the interiors of my home to reflect my heart and my calling.

My “Lighthouse” guest room reflects being a light for God. The décor of that room also ties into my family history of living near the shore. There are many special elements that I’ve included in the design that reflect on me being the wife of a Coast Guard officer. The various family pictures hanging on walls serve as reminders that God placed these people in my life to guide and love me, and so I could pray for them and love them. My “Cottage House” guest bedroom reflects my history and hospitable legacy. My family, who came to America in the 1600s, spent a lot of time visiting my

• Do you enjoy a crowd or an intimate conversation? Furniture arrangements should reflect that with couches close together for a group or little areas for close friends to sit and chat. • Do you use colors that reflect your personality, like bold reds and yellow for sanguines or soft blues and violet for melancholy? Do colors in some spaces also reflect the identity of other family members? • Are you mission-minded and/or a traveler? If so, coffee table books and albums from exotic lands can help you share your passion. • For holidays, especially Christmas and Easter, don’t just decorate with the latest craze. Consider what symbols express your faith and reflect the gospel. If someone remarked on a holiday decoration, could you use it chat about Christ and your identity in Him? Look around your rooms and see what can add that will share a bit of who you are with your guests. A little time invested in your home can make you shine through and serve as great conversation-starters. S

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CYNTHIA L. SIMMONS @CYNTHIALSIMMONS

scientists the tools to nail down nature’s laws about the world and develop principles of flight and electricity.

THAT’S A QUESTION PEOPLE HAVE BEEN ASKING FOR AGES.

In contrast, the Bible teaches unchanging truth in the moral and spiritual realm. The early chapters of Genesis give us God’s blueprint for man and the foundation of the family. When Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, NKJV), He spoke the divine truth about how to be reconciled with God. Called the logos, or word, in John 1, Jesus revealed our need for forgiveness and fulfilled God’s plan of redemption by his death. Amazing! Our God loved us enough to come and serve.

First, let’s define truth. When you ask your children to tell you the truth, you want them to recount events just as they happened. Maybe they forgot to do their homework or broke your favorite vase—both of which they’d be hesitant to confess. Either way, truth means honesty. Truth must correspond with reality.

You might ask about evidence regarding the truth of the Bible. We have tons. For instance, if you follow commands in Scripture, you will have better emotional and physical health. The Bible teaches we should forgive those who hurt us, and medicine has proved the dangers of holding grudges. I love that passage in Galatians where the Apostle Paul says, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace … against such there is no law” (5:22). You bet!

www.clsimmons.com

If you recall, Pontius Pilate asked Jesus, “What is truth?” This question came after Jesus declared, “Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice.” (See John 18:37-38, NKJV).

Second, let’s look at what you can know about yourself. You alone know your thoughts, emotional state, and levels of fatigue or pain. Your mind alerts you if you are tense or hungry. Because these are intrinsic to you, we call that subjective truth. Third, objective truth can be tested and observed. We know science unearths facts about the world around us, but that knowledge changes as we continue to learn. For instance, in the 1800s, researchers thought the single-celled animal was the simplest form of life. Today our microscopes reveal the complexity of those tiny cells which carry out all the functions which sustain life. The scientific method, developed by a Christian, gave

In addition, John Locke published The Reasonableness of Christianity in 1695. He pointed out the Bible makes sense of what we observe around us. Sinful man, made in God’s image, can commit both heroic acts and evil deeds. C.S. Lewis had a brilliant mind. He embraced atheism in his youth, but as an adult, he chose to follow the evidence. Even though quite reluctant to return to Christianity, he knelt in his Oxford office one evening to acknowledge God’s existence. God’s word is an incredible treasure of truth! S

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Have you ever started an exercise program or attempted to improve your diet habits only months later to find yourself back in old destructive patterns? This is a familiar cycle that leaves many feeling defeated. Often it’s not a problem with understanding the big picture, but rather a problem identifying the little foxes sabotaging your health goals. These small issues have a massive effect on how successfully you will maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle. Quickly recognizing and eliminating these habits will help you reach your health goals.

1. Wrong Mindset

things that may be sabotaging

YOUR HEALTH

A healthy upbeat attitude is needed to energize every wellness effort. If you want to lose weight, avoid starting your weight loss plan with feelings of selfcondemnation. Don’t spend time dwelling on past poor choices. Instead, focus on the healthy choices you will choose to make now. Plan for success. Regardless of your past attempts, anticipate that this time will be different. We often use the power of our imagination to think of all of the negative options. Use that same power to make a mental guide you can use to help steer yourself toward your goals.

2. Poor Planning

Expect the unexpected when setting health goals. What will you do if the run you have planned is interrupted by rain? How will you respond if your coworker brings in a platter of brownies to share at the office today? It’s important to consider the most common reasons you may slip up, and determine how you can conquer that problem the next time it arises. Resist the temptation of those sweet treats in the office break room by having a collection of nutritious snacks at your desk. Don’t let a little rain derail your scheduled workout. Move your cardio session inside and spend the same amount of time running in place or doing an exercise video.

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HEALTHTRACKS

3. Unhealthy Comparisons

Your body is unique and will respond to your efforts to improve your health. Unfortunately, it may not respond at the same rate or in the same way as your fitness partner. Don’t compare your weight loss with your spouse or your friend. Doing so will only cause one of you to feel like a loser. Overcoming unhealthy comparisons requires selfacceptance. Choose to celebrate your personal health journey as you celebrate the health successes of others. Self-acceptance is the ability to appreciate, support, and validate who you are and where you are at any moment in time. Find contentment in knowing you are on a journey. Your arrival times may differ from those traveling with you, but you have a common destination—improved health.

4. Unrealistic Goals

Beware of any exercise or diet program that guarantees you will lose a specific amount of weight by following their program. It is a mental trap being set to further your co-dependence with the billion dollar weight loss industry. This mindset leads to self-sabotage by setting an unattainable goal that you have no control over but gives you the illusion that if you follow ABC plan, you can succeed. Your failure succeeds only in leaving you feeling defeated. The reality is you have minimal control over your body’s metabolic cycles, calorie usage efficiency, or muscle integrity, all of which help determine the outcome of any dieting venture. Dedicate your attention to the things you do have control over, like the types of foods you choose, the amount of exercise you do, and your time spent in stress-relieving activities. .

5. Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle will lead to increase disease and declining health. Embrace the ability to use your body to tone your muscles, strengthen your heart and lungs, and improve your flexibility. Regardless of your age or physical ailments, there is some level of movement you can incorporate into your lifestyle. For women who hate formal exercise and gym equipment, turn on your favorite music, close the door, and dance around your living room doing the electric slide or the Macarena. The purpose is to move, to be free, to use muscles you do not

typically use in your daily activity, to enjoy your body. Make a decision to move more during your day and you will burn more calories without much additional effort.

6. Nutritional Deficiency

Your body needs adequate nutrition. Any diet which eliminates or strictly limits certain food groups is prone to have nutritional deficiencies. The most common ones I find when doing lab tests on women include vitamin D, calcium, B 12, protein, and iron. Low levels of these key nutrients will affect your muscle mass, bone strength, blood count levels, and energy level. Also, dehydration and free water deficits are prevalent in many. The human body is mostly water; a deficiency will significantly affect how you feel overall. Find creative ways to incorporate these easily missed vitamins and minerals into your daily routine. Smoothies and salads are two quick way to pack a lot of nutritional power into a fast-paced lifestyle.

You are in a health battle. Dueling plans strive to control your health destiny. God’s plan is for you to prosper in every area of your life and to be in good health. The alternative plan is out to steal your peace, destroy your health and, ultimately, to kill you physically and emotionally. Each decision you make regarding your health and well-being is part of either God’s plan or the plan of your health enemy. Regular exercise, daily stress reduction, a food plan built on healthy foods, adequate vitamin supplementation, and refreshing relationships are part of your plan for success. Learning how to differentiate those things that bring life from those things that promote death is vital in your quest for better health. S BY SAUNDRA DALTON SMITH @DRDALTONSMITH

www.drdaltonsmith.com

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JUST 18 SUMMERS

WHAT DEFINES YOU? BY MICHELLE S. COX @MICHELLEINSPIRE www.Just18Summers.com

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“That’s a policeman.” If we see a video of people in scrubs with face masks and caps, we identify them as doctors or nurses. If we see a group men or women dressed in brightly -colored oversized outfits with giant shoes and crazy hair at the circus, we don’t say, “Look at those business people!” Instead, we say, “Look at those clowns!”

ALL OF US HAVE AN IDENTITY. WHETHER IT’S AS SOMEONE’S OLD CLASSMATE FROM FAITH Even the funny sayings or cartoons on our t-shirts sets HIGH, AS TIM’S MOM, PAUL’S a tone for our individual “identities.” Style makes a WIFE, HAROLD’S DAUGHTER, statement that kids project to others about who they are and sets a precedent for the social groups that they will OR THE NICE LADY FROM gravitate toward. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --these -- -- -- --factors -- -- -- -- --help -- -- --shape -- -- -- --who -- -- -- we -- -- --are. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -{38.} -CHURCH, That’s a great reminder for us as parents, to help our children understand how the “uniforms” we wear each day—from their clothing to their attitudes and actions—affect their lives and others. If we see a photo of a man or woman in a blue or brown uniform with a weapon strapped to their belts and a microphone clipped on their shoulders, we say,

And if our unsaved friends can’t see any distinction in how we live our lives—including our choices, lifestyles, actions and the attitudes we promote—why should they want to meet Him? Let’s teach our children the important lesson that our identity is found in Him. And let’s reflect that in our lives each day so that others can easily identify us as children of the King. S

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a prayer toSEE

PRAYER CIRCLE

YOURSELF WITH GOD’S EYES WHAT IF I TOLD YOU THAT GOD SEES SOMETHING GOOD WHENEVER HE LOOKS INTO YOUR SOUL. (No, I’m serious. Really.) But what about my impure attitudes and selfish ways, you might ask? Okay, who among us isn’t guilty of all that and more? But what if God doesn’t focus on your flaws? What if he focuses on all that He loves about you?

Like what?

Like the way you love Him. The times you are kind. The moments you thank Him for His goodness. Think of it this way: who stands to benefit from you believing that God practically hates you? After all, a lie like that could keep you from falling more deeply in love with the One who IS love, the One who sent His Son to die in your place. Romans 5:8 declares: “But God shows his love

for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (ESV).

I think we all forget that His is a love that covers our impure attitudes and selfish ways with the righteousness of Jesus.

Our flaws are covered?

Yes, God really sees something good when He looks into your soul. In fact, I think that God sees you like a groom sees his bride as she glides toward him on

their wedding day. All of her preparations are met with eyes filled with delight. Where she sees flaws, he sees beauty. Where she sees regrets, he sees the loveliness of her heart. Where she sees her imperfections, he sees the preciousness of her soul. And that is exactly how God sees you – through the eyes of His love. You are loved, and it’s time you not only recognized it but admitted that “LOVED” is who you really are. “Loved” is your identity. For the Word says: “For I am sure that nei-

ther death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38- 39, ESV). Dear Lord, I break the lies that You are angry with me and that You don’t love me. I tell the enemy to be silent in Jesus’s name! I declare that my trust is in You, God, and in Your Son, Who died for my sins and covered all my unrighteousness. I declare that You, God, are a God of love and that You do love me. For neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate me from the love of You, God, in Christ Jesus our Lord. AMEN AND AMEN! S To receive a free Prayer Toolbox filled with warfare prayers to pray over you and your loved ones, text LEADINGHEARTS to 95577. —LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD

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stay a lot less distressed if I make sure my identity is wrapped up in the real King. His royalty. Not mine. I am who I am because…Jesus. One hundred percent. Long may He reign. In 1 Timothy 6:15 Christ is called, “the blessed

and only Sovereign, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords” (HCSB). Other New Testament spots as well tell us that Jesus is the ultimate, definitive King.

Then we’re reminded in 1 Peter 2:9, “But you are

a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (HCSB).

MY DAUGHTER JUST GAVE ME A TEST ON FACEBOOK. I GOT A 67. So it’s official. According to the test, I am: “67% princess.” I wasn’t even surprised. There’s not much I won’t glitter or bedazzle and I’m all too okay with people serving me. I was a little bothered that after the test I didn’t win a tiara or anything—because seriously, that was an impressively high score. But the most troubling part? It was wrestling with the next obvious question: So what is the other 33% of me made of? I find the thought extremely unsettling that one-third of my being is sort of “unspecified.” When you’ve got a high percentage of princess in you, I probably don’t have to tell you that there’s a lot of potential for drama anyway. In everything. But there’s an especially high drama potential when you start factoring in the distress of having 33% of your identity in some sort of royal limbo. When you get right down to it, though, I’ll no doubt

Wow, my royalty? Confirmed right there. But it’s wholly and only because I am a child of this most magnificent King. And there’s purpose in my royalty: “so that you may proclaim the praises.” So consider this my royal proclamation. I’m taking my imperial role seriously. I’ll be praising the King until I have no more breath. Until there’s not a glitter-sparkle left in me. I’m also making peace with my identity by reining in the rule-with-an-iron-scepter part of my princess-ness. Reining instead of reigning.

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body,” (Colossians 3:15, ESV). “Let Christ rule.” Not me. That’s my noble call. It’s a call to follow my King in humility. To get off my royal high horse and follow His leadership all the way to sacrificial, selfless servanthood. Christ and His peace ruling. All the percents of my days. All the percents of me. But for the record, this princess is still keeping some of her drama. I’m not sure how that’s going to work out when paired with the fact that my daughter now wants me to take a super hero test. Still, I figure I don’t even have to do that well on this one. I only need 33%. SS

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BOOKS TO READ BE THE MIRACLE by Delores Liesner Mission Impossible? Not with God! Be the Miracle is truly an amazing book, filled with stories of miracles! Does God really perform miracles in 2016? Yes, He does! This is the book for you if you need encouragement, help, or a spiritual blessing. As you read about the miracles God has done in her life, Delores Liesner will inspire you and increase your faith. At the end of each chapter— each miracle—Delores adds a life-changing lesson, a life-changing Bible verse, and a life-changing challenge for readers! I highly recommend this book to readers everywhere! —Donna Carol Voss

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REVIEWS

WINNING YOUR DAILY SPIRITUAL BATTLES by Linda Evans Shepherd God has created each person with purpose and potential, so why are so many of us fighting the same old battles instead of living the life he intends for us? Linda Evans Shepherd’s book, Winning Your Daily Spiritual Battles (releasing October 8th) reveals all the weapons God has provided in order to find success in every area of life. It’s time to learn how to use them. Linda shows readers how to break the chains of the enemy by putting on the full armor of God described in Ephesians 6. Shepherd explains the function of each piece of armor and offers readers deep insight into why they feel resistance when they try to find and follow their purpose. She shows readers how using the full armor of God will help them win their spiritual battles to live a victorious life now. —LH Staff

HUNTING HOPE by Nika Maples In Hunting Hope, Nika Maples lovingly and humorously teaches us how to be a hunter of Hope. She reminds us we are not alone, that we won’t always see death around us. She tells us that when we look around at the bare trees and gray skies, we can still have hope if we choose to hunt for it. In this short book (just a hair over 200 pages), Nika shares personal stories and God stories. She floods each page, not with her words, but with the words of God. I love the amount of Scripture she uses! It is so refreshing!! And it teaches us where our true Hope comes from! You’ll want to sit down and read it all at once. But don’t! Take your time, read it slowly, and pray about what you’re reading. And hunt for your own hope.—Virginia Garrett

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HEATHER VAN ALLEN @HEATHERVANALLEN LEADING HEARTS MUSIC REVIEWER ---------

MUSIC REVIEWS THE AFTERS Live On Forever The Afters offers fans their fifth studio album, Live On Forever, a 10-track recording that features two hit radio singles, the recentlyreleased “Battles” and the album title track released earlier in the year. “Battles” tells us that even when we feel too weak to take on life, God will fight for us. “Live On Forever” is a beautiful reminder of how our life in this world is temporary, all pain and struggle will come to an end, and we have something indescribably amazing to look forward to. Both singles bring together a theme thread that weaves through the entire album. A strength of this album is the energetic, upbeat pop/rock style that elevates the mood of the listener. The songs on the album came out of a season of trials. While some of the lyrics reflect that attitude, each track turns to a positive outlook rooted in the understanding that ultimately God wins.

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REVIEWS

VERTICAL CHURCH Frontiers Vertical Church Band (Essential Worship) has released its fourth album, FRONTIERS, featuring 11 tracks by the worship leaders of the seven-campus Harvest Bible Chapel (Chicagoland), including Meredith Andrews, Jon Guerra, Andi Rozier, Kyle Fredericks, Lauren Smith, Tara Stutes and Gabe Finochio. Evidently crafted primarily with corporate worship in mind, this album offers a non-fluffy, truth-steeped, and spiritually-focused selection of songs for any local church to add to its services. “There’s a great Gordon Fee quote that says, ‘You’ll know a church’s theology by the songs that they sing,’” worship leader Andi Rozier says. “We’re trying to give our church as much theology as they can put in their mouths through these new songs.” With its energetic live recordings, this album will likely engage individual listeners as well as large groups. Those needing a refreshing or refocusing of their worship time may want to consider Vertical Church Band’s FRONTIERS.

BRYAN & KATIE TORWALT Champion Bryan & Katie Torwalt, of Jesus Culture, released their new album Champion on July 29. The album, which the Torwalts say took “longer than they ever planned” but came together in God’s perfect timing, is an interesting mix of 13 beautiful encouraging worship tracks. Katie, with her solid voice, opens the album with the powerful, “Let There Be Light,” and Bryan follows strong with “World of Grace,” two tracks that set the theme of Jesus’ power to overcome all darkness that continues through the album. “The songs have come as we have lived life and grown,” the couple says. “We hope that is reflected in this album.” The song “Champion,” though originally crafted when it was needed in a moment of fear and anxiety, Katie says, became the obvious choice for the title track as a theme of victory emerged throughout the album. “We feel with everything that is happening at this time in history, more than ever we want to be declaring the goodness of God and the incredible victory of Christ’s death and resurrection.”

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BY KATHY COLLARD MILLER @KATHYCOLLARDMILLER www.kathycollardmiller.com

AS YOU SPEAK, DO YOU CATCH AUDIENCE MEMBERS FALLING ASLEEP, LOOKING OUT THE WINDOW OR SEEMING TO BE DAYDREAMING? Here are some ideas for keeping their attention. • Ask whether the room is too hot or too cold. Never be afraid to stop during your presentation to see if the room temperature can be adjusted. It’s better to ask the audience about what you think is the problem than just continuing. Of course, don’t say, “I notice you’re not paying attention; is the room temperature wrong?” But if women are rubbing their arms or trying to put on several layers of clothing, stop and ask the meeting planner if something can be adjusted. • Throw out a question. It can be a rhetorical question which means your audience knows you don’t expect them to answer out loud. Sometimes I’ll ask, “Think of one idea about how you’ll apply this point.” It’ll make them engage their minds. When you want them to answer, ask questions like, “What do you think about this point? Does it make sense?” Or “What Bible verse can you think of that goes along with this?” “How do you define the word (I’m using)?” Always pause, even for a few seconds to give them a chance to think before asking them to respond out loud.

• Form small groups. I sometimes ask the women to talk to their neighbor or form a group of three women. I give them a question or two to discuss. I’ll tell them how much time they have. “You’ll have three minutes to talk about this. How have you put this principle into action?” Most of the time you should allow most of the groups to share one answer with the full group. Otherwise, they’ll be discouraged from discussing something in the future. • Tell a story. Everyone loves a story. Endless instructions become boring. But a story about how you or someone applied or even struggled with your topic draws back their attention. • Pause. Pausing is the most difficult thing you can do, but sometimes it is very helpful. The silence can help them snap back to attention because there’s a change in the dynamics. You could use the pausing moment to step forward closer to the audience and look directly at someone’s face. • Have everyone stand up. During retreats, women often don’t get enough sleep. A 75- or 90-minute talk becomes too long. About halfway through, I’ll say “Before we go on to the next concept, I want everyone to stand up. Now turn to your right and give a back rub to the woman in front of you.” Immediately, sighs and delightful laughs fill the room. Twenty seconds later, I tell them to turn around and rub the back of the person who has rubbed their back. When I ask everyone to sit down a minute later, the audience is wide awake and ready to learn some more. Plus they have bonded even more. Never be afraid to monitor the reactions of the audience and take appropriate steps. They will thank you for it and be more attentive. S

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BY SHARON NORRIS ELLIOTT @SANEWRITER www.LifeThatMatters.net

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“Knowing who we are should naturally lead to living as who we are—Jesus followers.” —Sharon Norris Elliott www.LifeThatMatters.net

TRUTH STORY ONE: While I was standing in line at the post office, a scene unfolded at one of the windows as a customer argued with the postal worker. The customer wanted to purchase her stamps with a check but refused to show the postal worker her ID. Her objection was that if she showed her ID, she feared her identity would be stolen. No matter how hard the worker tried, the woman refused to be convinced. In fact, the longer the conversation lasted, the more agitated she became, even resorting to cursing the postal worker who was just trying to follow the rules of her job. That woman was adamant about preserving her identity, even to the point of making a spectacle of herself, making everyone in line uncomfortable, making the postal worker upset, and walking out without her stamps.

STORY TWO: I like the reality TV show in which the boss of the company disguises himself and goes in to work alongside his employees. The object of the show seems to be to give the high-powered executive a taste of his own medicine regarding how the company’s policies, practices, and procedures are affecting his workers. However, sometimes the employees treat this “new guy” harshly, become impatient as he tries to master certain tasks, or say things roughly to him. In response, off camera, he usually wants to say, “Do you know who I am?” Undoubtedly, the workers would respond to him differently and would probably put their best foot forward if they knew his true identity. In both of the above incidents, a person’s identity was the important point of the story. In story two, those gruff workers were going to be sorry they acted harshly toward someone whose identity mattered to their jobs. In story one, no one who witnessed the postal customer’s tirade would want

the identity she was trying so hard to protect. What about our identity? Perhaps people are not responding to us as we’d like them to because we are not showing them our identity—an identity that would be appealing, attractive, and influential. Or they could be seeing what we’re showing, and they just don’t want what they see. Then again, maybe we’re not revealing our true identity because we just don’t know what it is ourselves. According to Jesus,

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house” (Matthew 5:13-15, NKJV). The Greek word for “salt” used here is “halas,” which figuratively means “prudence.” Being the salt of the earth, then, means that we are the wisdom, the reason, and the good judgment needed in society to know how to handle our world and our lives in a disciplined manner. As believers, we are the caution sign to our world. By the same token, as the light of the world, we are the “phos” or that which shines and makes manifest that which must be seen. Life is not reality TV, but it is a collection of witnessable moments. Knowing who we are should naturally lead to living as who we are—Jesus followers His description of us with an admonition for us.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NKJV). If we’d start living as the salt and light we’re supposed to be, our identity as the Lord’s children would be clearly visible. We’d probably be pleasantly surprised at how we’d see the Lord’s name honored.S

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features

LEIGH BENNETT is a worship leader and blogger at Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, Alabama. www highlandsworship.com

LISA BURNS is a mentor, creative and communicator, predominantly working in the areas of entertainment both stage and screen. She is a pastorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife, mother of six and an arts and entertainment contributor for Leading Hearts. ROBYN DYKSTRA is a vibrant speaker, teacher, and inspirational storyteller. Her talks are filled with exciting, humorous stories and practical applications that teach women biblical truths and glorify Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. www.robyndykstra.com

meet linda

LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD @LINDASHEPHERD is publisher of Leading Hearts magazine. She is also a best-selling author, an in-demand speaker, and president of Right to the Heart ministries. She is founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA). She lives in Colorado with husband, Paul and son, Jimmy. www.Sheppro.com

PAM FARREL and her husband Bill are speakers and authors of 40 books including their newest: 7 Simple Skills for Success for Men. For more information visit www.LoveWise.com KAREN PORTER is an international speaker, the author of six books, and a successful business woman. She is president of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, serves on several boards, and coaches aspiring writers and speakers. She and her husband, George, own Bold Vision Books, a Christian publishing company. www.karenporter.com POPPY SMITH is a speaker and award-winning multipublished author as well as a former Bible Study Fellowship Teacher with a Masters in Spiritual Formation & Direction. Drawing from her powerfully honest story, Poppy demonstrates that Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word and Spirit can change lives. www.poppysmith.com

meet amber

AMBER WEIGAND-BUCKLEY @BAREFACEDGIRL is managing editor and art director for Leading Hearts magazine. She is a writer, speaker and multi-award winning editor, having spent 21 years in the magazine industry. When not working on Leading Hearts, she provides communications and social media support for non-profits and missionaries. She and her Brit-native husband Philip live in Missouri with their three daughters: Saffron, Imogen, and Penelope. www.barefacedgirl.com

RHONDA RHEA is an author, humor columnist, and radio personality. She lives in the St. Louis area with her pastor-hubs and has five grown children. www.rhondarhea.com

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PENELOPE CARLEVATO is an author of Afternoon Tea: From the Era of Downton Abbey and the Titanic as well as Tea on the Titanic and First Class Etiquette. She speaks on hospitality, historical entertaining, and etiquette and manners for all ages and all occasions. Penelope lives in the Denver area and is the grandmother of 11. www.PenelopesTeaTime.com MICHELLE S. COX is an author and speaker and the creator of the Just 18 Summers® parenting resources and products. Visit her parenting blog www.just18summers.com / www.Facebook.com/just18summers.

SHARON NORRIS ELLIOTT’S engaging yet challenging messages touch hearts and tickle the funny bones of her audiences, making her a popular, sought-after speaker. She and husband, James, enjoy their empty nest in Southern California. www.lifethatmatters.net KATHY COLLARD MILLER is an author and speaker whose newest book Never Ever Be the Same: A New You Starts Today released in January. Find her at www.KathyCollardMiller.com CYNTHIA L. SIMMONS is an author, speaker as well as radio host and producer of Heart of the Matter Radio. During each broadcast, Cynthia takes an in-depth look at issues women face in our complex culture.She and husband Ray have five grown children. www.clsimmons.com

SAUNDRA DALTON SMITH is an internal medicine physician, author, and speaker. She shares with audiences nationwide on the topics of eliminating limiting emotions, breaking free from mental bondage, and helps others see God’s plan for them to live free in Christ. She is the founder of I Choose My Best Life, a movement to renew hope in a generation where depression, stress, and fear is peaking. www.ichoosemybestlife.com JENNIFER TAYLOR is a music and profile contributor for Leading Hearts magazine. HEATHER VAN ALLEN is a music reviewer for Leading Hearts magazine. KAREN WHITING is an international speaker, former TV host, and the author of numerous books. Her newest release is 365 Devotions for Hope. www KarenWhiting.com.

columns

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