Beautiful and Dauntless Issue 52

BEA

APRIL 2021 | ISSUE 52

TIFUL

BLINDED Spring Beauty Date Night: Bakery Spring Fashion His & Hers

How do you know if you have been blinded by influence?

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letter from the EDITOR

HELLO &

DAUN LESS We are excited for a brand new month. A month that for us symbolizes spring, new life, and hope that can only be found in Jesus. In just a few short days, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

He died a horrible and gruesome death by being crucified on a cross.

He had done no wrong but this was his purpose for coming to earth.

You see, in him dying in such a way, he was able to take all of the bad, wrong, horrible things we have done and wash them away in his blood. Now he acts as a bridge, connecting us to our creator in Heaven. When we choose to follow and love Jesus, he welcomes us to a beautiful life after we leave this world.

To us, that life looks better and better as this world continues to look more and more crazy.

If you have not yet Jesus, this month is a beautiful time to do so. We hope you have a blessed month and keep your head up.

Stay strong and stay blessed! #bringingbeautifulback #dauntlessstrong XOXO,

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karissahagemeister | khluv | karissaluvhagemeister

table of CONTENTS

APRIL 2021

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08 Spring Beauty 16 Beautiful Fashion

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24 Dauntless Fashion 30 Blinded 36 Date Night: Bakery

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44

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40 Bae’s Kitchen

Lemony Scallops in Pasta

Deviled Eggs

44 His Will Not Mine 60 Dauntless Fitness 62 Covid Prayer Wall 64 Prayers Answered

beautiful & dauntless | kingdomdz | beautifulndauntless

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meet the BEAUTIFUL & DAUNTLESS STAFF EDITOR IN CHIEF, beautiful

Karissa Hagemeister-Irani is on a life long journey to share love, beauty and truth with the world.

She enjoys modeling, acting and singing. She has her own fashion line and in July of 2016, Karissa published her first book.

Her future plans are to revamp the fashion & entertainment industry with the love, truth and beauty through both her fashion business and Beautiful & Dauntless magazine.

Editor-in-Chief of the Dauntless section of the magazine, Arman Irani, married Karissa in June of 2019.

EDITOR IN CHIEF, dauntless

Arman Irani is just another fellow human. He’s admittedly a little bit nerdy. How nerdy? Well, he just received a Bachelors degree in Nanotechnology.

Arman loves working out, cooking healthy, dressing up, traveling and he’s also a bit of a gamer. He has no qualms with moving in faith to new destinations and embarking on new adventures in life (as the phrase goes, you only live once!).

When it comes down to it, Arman believes life is short and hopes that you become inspired and believe in yourself to do the things that you want in this life and follow your calling.

ABOUT BEAUTIFUL & DAUNTLESS Beautiful & Dauntless is a collection of art and illustrations, depicting inner and outer beauty. It is stories, it is real, it is life.

It is about you, your story, your life, your love, your pain and your fears.

It is about us, our stories, our journeys, adventures and our moments of life that have been crafted specially to share with you.

We want you to feel like you are a part of the stories, the adventures and the passion that each one of the editors, writers, designers and photographers bring to you. We want you to feel empowered, encouraged and excited about your beautiful journey in this life.

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beautiful & dauntless | kingdomdz | beautifulndauntless

FEATURE EDITOR

Arnette German is a native of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina.

She took her leap of faith and finally decided to yield to her passion for fashion by enrolling in the online Graduate Program of Fashion Journalism at Academy Art University in San Francisco, California.

No stranger to the stage, Arnette is a member of the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in Sarasota, Florida. Presently calling Bradenton, Florida home, Arnette spends her free time either volunteering at her local church and spending time with friends and family, especially her best friend.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & CONTENT CONTRIBUTOR

Arnette is a foodie and a lover of nature and the arts. Life is definitely, in some shape or form and fashion, being lived to the fullest.

Xiomara Montalvo is a graphic designer and visual artist that lives and breathes all things artistic. She has lived in Florida half of her life but is originally from Michigan.

Xiomara has a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design from Southeastern University with a concentration in Digital Imaging. Visual Storytelling has always been a passion of hers. To be able to bring life to the imagination is what motivates her to design.

When Xiomara is not working, she loves to read, write, draw, paint, and play video games. She personally believes that we were all created to create.

PODCASTS: If you love to listen to podcasts, you have to check out our new podcast station. It is available here: iTunes Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/beautiful-dauntlesss-podcast/id1453936323 Google Play Podcast: https://play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/I2dnkg2572v4xdggrh4bvwwzmmy PATREON: Patreon is a site that allows creators to express their talents and others can contribute to their projects. You can now sponsor us with a one time or a monthly contribution.. Contribute here: https://www.patreon.com/karissahagemeister

www.beautifulndauntless.com ©2021 Published by Kingdom Dezigns, Inc.

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When Life Gives You Lemons ...

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Beautiful BEAUTY

SPRING MAKEUP MUST HAVES 8

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U Beauty The Sculpt Arm Compound $98 Available online at theubeauty.com

Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother $28 Available at Sephora

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beautiesempoweringbeauties

Join Beauties Empowering Beauties on FB for we ekly encouragem ent

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Read Acts 9

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beautiful FASHION

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Fashion outfit: Amazon (click the link below and go to S/S Ladies Fashion)

Order now. Click here.

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Fashion Dress: Amazon (click the link below and go to S/S Ladies Fashion)

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Order now. Click here.

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Fashion Outfit: Amazon (click the link below and go toS/S Ladies Fashion)

Order now. Click here.

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Fashion Top: Amazon (click the link below and go toS/S Ladies Fashion)

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Order now. Click here.

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dauntless FASHION

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Jacket: Amazon (click the link below and go to Mens Spring Fashion)

DAUN LESS Order now. Click here.

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Jogger Outfit: Amazon (click the link below and go to Mens Spring Fashion)

DAUN LESS 26

Order now. Click here.

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Jeans: Amazon (click the link below and go to Mens Spring Fashions)

DAUN LESS Order now. Click here.

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Xiomara’s THOUGHTS

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Blinded Blinded Blinded By: Xiomara Eve Montalvo

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The expanse of time, that comprises the entirety of the years of life we live, is molded by Infuence. Some of us are raised to understand that the clothing iron is hot so it may not be wise to touch it. Chicken cannot be eaten straight from the freezer because it is still frozen and raw. Candles should not be played with despite how nice they smell because we would like to keep the houses we live in. And although a key is small enough to fit in the electrical wall socket does not mean we can “unlock” it hoping it opens a door to another world. These are just some examples of teachings that have influenced our growth as children from our parents or guardians.

As we grow into the period of adolescence, things start to get a little rocky.

Now there more voices from a plethora of people that we can listen to besides our guardians. We begin to listen to the television shows that depict that if you act or dress a certain way you can obtain popularity. We begin to listen to that one guy in school who is always telling you, “You’re ugly and you don’t belong here.” We begin to listen to that neighbor who offers you to try “special” pills that will melt all your worries away. We begin to listen to the group of students that call themselves “cool” that if you wanted to join them you have to pick on that other kid with glasses that is shy. We even listen to that close friend that says to ignore their bruises and scars because they are okay. A blindfold appears in front of you, dangling, as the influences increase. Influences that shape our malleable minds and chisel our characters well into adulthood.

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As adults, we assume that we are now in control of the decisions we make.

We define ourselves, right? Yet we listen to Desperation disguised as a coworker that suggests that if you want to progress in the company you should start to do some self compromising things. We listen to Anxiety where she says your check will not be enough so it is okay to steal a couple of things. We listen to Low Self-Esteem while they whisper that you will never be as attractive as magazine and billboard models. We listen to Sorrow as his tears fill bottles of alcohol and offers them to you to dive in to. We listen to Loneliness as she comforts you saying that being alone is your reality because no one wants your company. The blindfold is securely tied tight at this point.

It is dark and we cannot see anymore. We cannot distinguish between the various voices either. Then we ask ourselves, “Where am I going? Wait..who am I?”

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See there is this guy named Saul. Frankly speaking, he was not the best guy in the neighborhood. Tons of people could not tolerate him because he made it his job to persecute the followers of Jesus Christ. He was the negative influence. His reputation preceded him where-ever he went.

Saul did what he believed was the right thing. He believed Christians were a menace and as the big bad wolf of sorts, he got rid of them. Saul was acting out blindly. He was wandering around with his very own blindfold. Until one day, on one of his travels he encountered something otherworldly. A truly blinding light knocked the poor guy right off his feet. It was the impact needed that changed his very life. He made contact with the Redeemer, the very same one of which he was persecuting his people. Christ humbled him, and showed him how he could be brought to the side of light so he too can be saved and inturn save others. The negative influences that defined Saul as a person would be forever changed as Christ removed his blindfold and Saul could truly see now.

Saul may have been blindfolded for a time but through Christ he was made new. He was then known as Paul and Paul walked out in faith with his new found sight. Just like Paul, Jesus Christ can remove the blindfold of the lies, shut the mouths of the voices of your past, and redefine the negative influences into testimonies that will strengthen you.

Through Jesus Christ WE CAN SEE!

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“I do not understand what I do.

For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” -Paul Romans 7:15

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date NIGHT

Erin McKenna’s Baker y

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Date Night: Erin McKenna’s Bakery

By Karissa Hagemeister-Irani & Arman Irani

We just relocated to central Florida and so there are a ton of amazing places to dine and enjoy. Since this is a big tourist spot, we will be sure to share all of the goodness that we find with you… starting with this one.

We stumbled upon Erin McKenna’s Bakery in Disney Springs while walking around and seeing all that has changed since we had last been there. This bakery was a huge hit to Karissa before she even walked in the door. If you don’t know, Karissa has a gluten intolerance so she cannot often enjoy anything from a bakery. Baked goods are her favorite thing to snack on and celebrate with.

The main reason this bakery was such a big hit for us is because EVERYTHING in it is gluten free. It is also vegan and nut free, and some other things that it is free of but the gluten free won it over for us. We were in sweet tooth heaven once we walked in.

They have everything from cakes, and cookies, eclairs and so much more. It is all drool worthy. The price is a little bit higher than you would expect at a regular bakery but this is normal for gluten free things and for Disney.

We chose a Chocolate Sunflower Butter Cupcake and a Mint Chocolate Whoopie Pie. They both were so good and so huge that we could not finish them in one bite. It is a good thing that we do not live closer because Karissa would be there everyday enjoying something new.

If you have one of these food allergies or intolerances, we highly recommend you stop here next time you are in the area. You will not regret it at all. Even if you don’t have any problem with gluten and so forth, you should give it a try. You will be shocked by all the yummy goodness that bakery holds.

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bae’s KITCHEN

Lemony Scallops in Pasta

Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked pasta (your choice but we love angel hair pasta) 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry 2 garlic cloves, sliced 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes green onions, thinly sliced 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest 1/4 cup lemon juice 40

Directions: 1. In a pot, cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and return to the pot.

2.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil over medium-high heat; sear the scallops until they are opaque and edges are golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet; but keep them warm.

3.In the same skillet, saute garlic and pepper flakes in remaining oil, about 1 minute. Stir in green onions, add salt and cook for one more minute. Add to pasta; toss to combine. Sprinkle with lemon zest and juice. Add the scallops on top and enjoy.

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The Classic Deviled Egg 6 eggs 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon yellow mustard 1/8 teaspoon salt Freshly ground black pepper Paprika, for garnish Boil the Eggs: Put eggs in a pan and fill with enough water that there’s 1 1/2 inches of water above the eggs. Heat on high until the water boils, then cover, turn the heat to low, and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and leave them covered for 14 minutes. Afterwards, rinse them under cold water continuously for 1 minute.

Crack egg shells and carefully remove the shell under cool running water. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise. Take the yolks out and put them in a bowl. Place the whites on a platter. In the yolk bowl: Add mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Make sure the yolk is crumbled up nicely in the mixture.

Use a spoon to evenly distribute the yolk mixture into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika and enjoy.

Submit Your Recipes to See them in Next Month’s Magazine

SUBMIT 42

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His WILL not MINE

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His Will Not Mine

By Tamara Haygood

When we take a look at the life of the Apostle Paul, we see that he didn’t start his religious journey believing that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. I see in the book of Acts chapter 9 the story of a man known as Saul of Tarsus.

Who was Saul of Tarsus? We see in Philippians chapter 3, how Paul describes himself : “If others could be saved by what they are, certainly I could! For I went through the Jewish initiation ceremony when I was eight days old, having been born into a pure-blooded Jewish home that was a branch of the old original Benjamin family. So I was a real Jew if there ever was one! What’s more, I was a member of the Pharisees who demand the strictest obedience to every Jewish law and custom. And sincere? Yes, so much so that I greatly persecuted the Church; and I tried to obey every Jewish rule and regulation right down to the very last point.”

(LB).

When we are introduced to Saul in the book of Acts, he is on a mission to destroy those who are following Christ. In looking at this passage I have to believe he was very dedicated to his belief, he truly believed that he was doing the will of God. He describes himself as a Jew among Jews.

Not only was Paul an expert in Jewish law, but he was taught by one of the greatest religious teachers in the ancient world at that time. Under a man named Gamaliel. Paul’s Jewish background and lineage was 100% Israelite, coming from the tribe of Benjamin, and even more, he was a Pharisee. He knew the law inside and out.

Let’s look at Saul / Paul’s introduction: Acts 9:1 “Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord [and relentless in his search for believers], went to the high priest, and he asked for letters [of authority] from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any men or women there belonging to the Way [believers, followers of Jesus the Messiah], men and women alike, he could arrest them and bring them bound [with chains] to Jerusalem.”

In his mind he knew the laws of God, he believed with every ounce of life inside of him that these followers of Jesus Christ were wrong. That they were a threat to the very ways of life that the Jewish people followed. He was not an evil man that was just out to destroy lives to mercilessly kill people. He sincerely believed what he was doing was what God wanted him to do. I think it’s safe to say he was zealous for the ways of God. 46

I believe many times that humans sometimes in their knowledge of God, perhaps even their relationship with God there becomes a certain amount of pride on their part, or perhaps even a feeling of superiority to others. They somehow feel that they have more insight into the ways of God than others therefore they feel that they have the right answers because of this strong opinion. We as believers can hear from God, typically in our hearts and through His Word, some have even experienced the audible voice of God.

The Holy Spirit of God; gives specific gifts to people; prophecy, healing, words of knowledge to list a few. Although, these are gifts from God, and the people are merely vessels for God. At times people somehow begin to believe that they are “special,” perhaps more “special” than others… that my friends, is pride. And pride is definitely not a gift from God. Instead, it is a seed, a temptation, a device of our enemy, the devil. I dare say this is a place that we all need to be careful. Pride is a very subtle yet very destructive element. The enemy found his way out of Heaven very quickly due to his pride. You can read of his demise in Ezekiel 28.

Satan’s desires were evil and the pride in him had brought him to a point where God had to deal with him.

One thing I have noticed about God, is it’s not a one size fits all when it comes to the consequences of our sinful actions. Thankfully we know that God looks at our heart and he knows our intentions. And He does what he needs to, in order to remind us that He alone is God and He alone holds the answers. Not to mistake that sin is sin and the wages of sin is death and eternal separation from God, if we choose to go our ways rather than follow God.

But being mindful once again, that God knows each of us better than we know ourselves. We see different times where those who truly loved him and we’re following Him made decisions or spoke out of context. Perhaps there was a bit of pride at these times because they felt they had a relationship or knowledge of God that they could be so bold as to determine the right decision or the right words to speak.

Thankfully we see this with Paul. God knew that his heart was right and his desire was to please God. He just needed to have some clear direction and to understand that these people that he wanted to persecute we’re really not the ones that were in the wrong. He needed a supernatural introduction to Jesus!

“As he was nearing Damascus on this mission, suddenly a brilliant light from heaven spotted down upon him! He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Paul! Paul! Why are you persecuting me?” ’Who is speaking, sir?’ Paul asked.

And the voice replied, ’I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! Now get up 47

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and go into the city and await my further instructions.’

The men with Paul stood speechless with surprise, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! As Paul picked himself up off the ground, he found that he was blind. He had to be led into Damascus and was there three days, blind, going without food and water all that time. Now there was in Damascus a believer named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling, ’Ananias!’

‘Yes, Lord!’ he replied.

And the Lord said, ’Go over to Straight Street and find the house of a man named Judas and ask there for Paul of Tarsus. He is praying to me right now, for I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying his hands on him so that he can see again!’

‘But Lord,’ exclaimed Ananias, ‘I have heard about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! And we hear that he has arrest warrants with him from the chief priests, authorizing him to arrest every believer in Damascus!’

But the Lord said, “Go and do what I say. For Paul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the nations and before kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for me.”

So Ananias went over and found Paul and laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Paul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you may be filled with the Holy Spirit and get your sight back.”

Instantly (it was as though scales fell from his eyes) Paul could see and was immediately baptized. Then he ate and was strengthened.” (Acts 9: 3-19).

If God had not shown Paul the truth and set him straight. We would have not had much of the New Testament that we enjoy and that guides us in our walk. Paul accepted the correction from God and we have been blessed because of his obedience.

Another example we see of this, was with Moses. Moses had been dealing with the children of Israel and was frustrated with them, and rightfully so. They were incessantly complaining about one thing or another. At one of these moments, they were complaining again about a lack of water. Previously, God had instructed Moses to strike a rock and water would come from the rock. This time God didn’t tell him to strike the rock but just speak to it. Moses out of his frustration decided to take things into his own hand and struck the rock.

Numbers 20:20, ”The people of Israel arrived in the wilderness of Zin in April and camped at Kadesh, where Miriam died and was buried. There was not 49

enough water to drink at that place, so the people again rebelled against Moses and Aaron. A great mob formed, and they held a protest meeting.

‘Would that we too had died with our dear brothers the Lord killed!’ they shouted at Moses. ’You have deliberately brought us into this wilderness to get rid of us, along with our flocks and herds. Why did you ever make us leave Egypt and bring us here to this evil place? Where is the fertile land of wonderful crops—the figs, vines, and pomegranates you told us about? Why, there isn’t even water enough to drink!’

Moses and Aaron turned away and went to the entrance of the Tabernacle, where they fell face downward before the Lord; and the glory of Jehovah appeared to them.

And he said to Moses, ’Get Aaron’s rod; then you and Aaron must summon the people. As they watch, speak to that rock over there and tell it to pour out its water! You will give them water from a rock, enough for all the people and all their cattle!

So Moses did as instructed. He took the rod from the place where it was kept before the Lord; then Moses and Aaron summoned the people to come and gather at the rock; and he said to them, ‘Listen, you rebels! Must we bring you water from this rock?’

Then Moses lifted the rod and struck the rock twice, and water gushed out; and the people and their cattle drank.

In the very next verse we see, that Moses should not have taken for granted his relationship with God. This very act was going to impact Moses in a way that he had not taken into account.

Numbers 20:12 “But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, ‘Because you did not believe me and did not sanctify me in the eyes of the people of Israel, you shall not bring them into the land I have promised them!’”

This may have seemed very harsh for God to have restricted Moses from being able to enter the promised land. Needless to say the Israelite’s journey was far from over at this point, God still had a job for Moses, to lead the people. However, God needed him to lead them with God’s instruction not with Moses’ overreacting and his own decisions.

It Is always wise to remember that God is in charge; He has a different perspective than we do, as He sees the end from the beginning, He knows exactly what the consequences will be to the actions that will be taken. No matter how close we may be to God or feel that we are His ways are always right always or not.

It is best that we follow His plan because His ways are right.

Proverbs 3:6 “In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles thatblock 50

right always or not. It is best that we follow His plan because His ways are right.

Proverbs 3:6 “In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles thatblock your way].”

Another example is Jesus’ disciple, Peter. Peter was part of the three that seem to be Jesus’ inner circle. No doubt, Peter James and John all realized this. Once again, I think it’s easy when we feel that we have a particular closeness to God or we have seen God move on our behalf or perhaps we have had him touch our lives in a way that He had not touched many others. That we begin to feel that we can say or do things that we believe He surely would agree. We may even convince ourselves that He is directing us to it, because of our strong opinion. It is so very important that we do not move, speak or act outside of His direction. or specific leading. Decisions should be led by Him.

The Spirit of God had revealed to Peter something very special. We find this passage in Matthew 6:13-19 “ When Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ’Who are the people saying I am?’

‘Well,’ they replied, ‘some say John the Baptist; some, Elijah; some, Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.’

Then he asked them, ’Who do you think I am?’

Simon Peter answered, ‘The Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ ‘ God has blessed you, Simon, son of Jonah,’ Jesus said, ’for my Father in Hea en has personally revealed this to you—this is not from any human source. You are Peter, a stone; and upon this rock I will build my church; and all the powers of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven; whatever doors you lock on earth shall be locked in heaven; and whatever doors you open on earth shall be open in Heaven!’”

Wow! Jesus tells Peter that God has just revealed something to him very important in fact this is a point where Peter who was known as Simon is also having his name changed. Much the same as we see in the passage in Acts with Saul being changed to Paul.

One of the qualities of Peter that was very good but at the same time could be very bad was his zealousness. As he immediately turned around and got himself into trouble right after this.

We find this in, Matthew 6:21 “ From then on Jesus began to speak plainly to his disciples about going to Jerusalem, and what would happen to him there—that he would suffer at the hands of the Jewish leaders, that he would be killed, and that three days later he would be raised to life again.

But Peter took him aside to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven forbid, sir,’ he said.

‘This is not going to happen to you!’

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right always or not. It is best that we follow His plan because His ways are right.

Proverbs 3:6 “In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles thatblock your way].”

Another example is Jesus’ disciple, Peter. Peter was part of the three that seem to be Jesus’ inner circle. No doubt, Peter James and John all realized this. Once again, I think it’s easy when we feel that we have a particular closeness to God or we have seen God move on our behalf or perhaps we have had him touch our lives in a way that He had not touched many others. That we begin to feel that we can say or do things that we believe He surely would agree. We may even convince ourselves that He is directing us to it, because of our strong opinion. It is so very important that we do not move, speak or act outside of His direction. or specific leading. Decisions should be led by Him.

The Spirit of God had revealed to Peter something very special. We find this passage in Matthew 6:13-19 “ When Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ’Who are the people saying I am?’

‘Well,’ they replied, ‘some say John the Baptist; some, Elijah; some, Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.’

Then he asked them, ’Who do you think I am?’

Simon Peter answered, ‘The Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ ‘ God has blessed you, Simon, son of Jonah,’ Jesus said, ’for my Father in Hea en has personally revealed this to you—this is not from any human source. You are Peter, a stone; and upon this rock I will build my church; and all the powers of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven; whatever doors you lock on earth shall be locked in heaven; and whatever doors you open on earth shall be open in Heaven!’”

Wow! Jesus tells Peter that God has just revealed something to him very important in fact this is a point where Peter who was known as Simon is also having his name changed. Much the same as we see in the passage in Acts with Saul being changed to Paul.

One of the qualities of Peter that was very good but at the same time could be very bad was his zealousness. As he immediately turned around and got himself into trouble right after this.

We find this in, Matthew 6:21 “ From then on Jesus began to speak plainly to his disciples about going to Jerusalem, and what would happen to him there—that he would suffer at the hands of the Jewish leaders, that he would be killed, and that three days later he would be raised to life again.

But Peter took him aside to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven forbid, sir,’ he said. ‘This is not going to happen to you!’

Jesus turned on Peter and said, ’Get away from me, you Satan! You are a dangerous 53

right always or not. It is best that we follow His plan because His ways are right.

Proverbs 3:6 “In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles thatblock your way].”

Another example is Jesus’ disciple, Peter. Peter was part of the three that seem to be Jesus’ inner circle. No doubt, Peter James and John all realized this. Once again, I think it’s easy when we feel that we have a particular closeness to God or we have seen God move on our behalf or perhaps we have had him touch our lives in a way that He had not touched many others. That we begin to feel that we can say or do things that we believe He surely would agree. We may even convince ourselves that He is directing us to it, because of our strong opinion. It is so very important that we do not move, speak or act outside of His direction. or specific leading. Decisions should be led by Him.

The Spirit of God had revealed to Peter something very special. We find this passage in Matthew 6:13-19 “ When Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ’Who are the people saying I am?’

‘Well,’ they replied, ‘some say John the Baptist; some, Elijah; some, Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.’

Then he asked them, ’Who do you think I am?’

Simon Peter answered, ‘The Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ ‘ God has blessed you, Simon, son of Jonah,’ Jesus said, ’for my Father in Hea en has personally revealed this to you—this is not from any human source. You are Peter, a stone; and upon this rock I will build my church; and all the powers of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven; whatever doors you lock on earth shall be locked in heaven; and whatever doors you open on earth shall be open in Heaven!’”

Wow! Jesus tells Peter that God has just revealed something to him very important in fact this is a point where Peter who was known as Simon is also having his name changed. Much the same as we see in the passage in Acts with Saul being changed to Paul.

One of the qualities of Peter that was very good but at the same time could be very bad was his zealousness. As he immediately turned around and got himself into trouble right after this.

We find this in, Matthew 6:21 “ From then on Jesus began to speak plainly to his disciples about going to Jerusalem, and what would happen to him there—that he would suffer at the hands of the Jewish leaders, that he would be killed, and that three days later he would be raised to life again.

But Peter took him aside to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven forbid, sir,’ he said. ‘This is not going to happen to you!’

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Jesus turned on Peter and said, ’Get away from me, you Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are thinking merely from a human point of view, and not from God’s.’”

I’m not sure what was going through Peter’s mind if he felt that all of a sudden he had become so close to the Son of God that he had the ability to rebuke and tell Him what He needed to be doing. At times it seems that Peter spoke before he really thought about what was coming out of his mouth. I’m not certain of this, it is just my personal speculation.

The point of what I want to get to is, first of all we need to be on guard of ourselves never to think more highly of ourselves than we ought.

Romans 3:1-3, “ Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship.

And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].

For by the grace [of God] given to me I say to everyone of you not to think more highly of himself [and of his importance and ability] than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has apportioned to each a degree of faith [and a purpose designed for service].”

Secondly, we are never so important that we know more than God nor are we more important than other people. God will deal with us as He did with those I mentioned before, He knows our hearts He knows when He needs to reel us back in.

No matter what your calling or titled may be. It is best that we stay humble before God. I see that Peter must have learned this lesson as he writes to us in 1 Peter 5:1-6, “‘Therefore, I strongly urge the elders among you [pastors, spiritual leaders of the church], as a fellow elder and as an eyewitness [called to testify] of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory that is to be revealed: shepherd and guide and protect the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not [motivated] for shameful gain, but with wholehearted enthusiasm; not lording it over those assigned to your care [do not be arrogant or overbearing], but be examples [of Christian living] to the flock [set a pattern of integrity for your congregation]. And when the Chief Shepherd (Christ) appears, you will receive the [conqueror’s] unfading crown of glory. Likewise, you younger men [of lesser rank and experience], be subject to your elders [seek their counsel]; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another [tie on the servant’s apron], for God is opposed to the proud [the disdainful, the presumptuous, and He defeats them], but He gives grace to the humble.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God [set aside self-righteous 55

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pride], so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time.’”

Also, I want to encourage you to be wise and cautious of those who want to speak very loudly and their opinions of what they believe God has said. God has placed His Holy Spirit inside of each of us as born-again believers, and He is our teacher, to each of us personally. Again, we need to weigh out all that we learn by the Word of God which is our source of Truth. Please do not get caught up in personalities, no matter how spiritual no matter how many great works they may be able to perform. They are not God and all people are fallible. Anyone who claims they know all of the answers, or teaching things that do not line up with the Word of God. We need to disconnect ourselves from that source.

There are several scriptures that warn against false teachers. Here is one in Acts 20:25 - 32, “‘And now, listen carefully: I know that none of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will see me again. For that reason I testify to you on this [our parting] day that I am innocent of the blood of all people. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose and plan of God. Take care and be on guard for yourselves and for the whole flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as overseers, to shepherd (tend, feed, guide) the church of God which He bought with His own blood. I know that after I am gone, [false teachers like] ferocious wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; even from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse and distorted things, to draw away the disciples after themselves [as their followers]. Therefore be continually alert, remembering that for three years, night or day, I did not stop admonishing and advising each one [of you] with tears. And now I commend you to God [placing you in His protective, loving care] and [I commend you] to the word of His grace [the counsel and promises of His unmerited favor]. His grace is able to build you up and to give you the [rightful] inheritance among all those who are sanctified [that is, among those who are set apart for God’s purpose—all believers].’”

I believe that in the days ahead there will be opportunities for many to confuse Christians. There will be things that may sound incredibly hard to believe. Things that we have not known of before; I encourage you to spend more time yourself with God and his Word. Don’t become prideful if He begins to do marvelous things in your life instead keep yourself humble before Him. Also, keep in mind, that without God we can do nothing…not even breathe. Be patient in listening and obeying Him. Do not get enticed with people no matter how wonderful they may seem to be; they are not God and they can be deceived and misled.

Do you know what verse is found in the very center of the Bible: Psalms 118:8, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord Than to trust in man.”

Be blessed my friend, Matthew 5:3, “ Blessed (happy,to be envied, and spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the poor in spirit (the humble, who rate themselves 57 insignificant), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!”

Dauntless FITNESS

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summer bod To get that summer bod that we all strive for, it is important to keep that core engaged and active.

Below are ab exercises that you can and should do daily to get your abs to where you want them to be. Start off with as many as you can. Keep track and add to it daily. Some of these will workout the entire body as well.

Sit Ups Reverse Crunches Planks Russian Twists Knee-to-elbow Crunches Side Planks

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PRAYER requests

Pray for safe travels for those traveling.

Pray for all that are struggling with the coronavirus.

Pray for jobs to open up for those that are seeking work.

Pray for unity among the people of God.

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In order for us to move forward, we must come together and pray for each other. Whenever you have prayer needs go to our website or Facebook page and share what you need prayer for. You can keep it anonymous. We will add as many prayer requests to the next magazine as possible.

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prayers ANSWERED

God is Good! Even in the midst of this crazy season he has blessed us all in different ways. Share your #BLESSED moments with us on our website, Facebook page or email us and you could be in our next magazine.

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DAUN LESS APRIL 2021 | Issue 52

Blinded

How Saul Became Paul For Him : 66

Date Night, Fashion, Fitness & Food