June/July 2017

June/July 2017

Christ-Centered. Fashion-Forward.

The Great Unknown Trusting God with your future

No Flaw In You How one entrepreneur promotes self-love, one card at-a-time

Beautifully Broken, Yet Wonderfully Whole Exchanging shame for God’s forgiveness June/July 2017

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editor’s note

The journey I’ve been on getting to the sixth issue of Anointed has been a rocky one full of self-doubt and bumps along the way.

So many times I questioned if I should be making Anointed.

After all, I’m full of flaws and did so many things I’m not proud of. One morning I told a friend that I didn’t feel worthy of making this magazine. I was concerned that I was making myself appear to be this put-together, goody-goody Christian on the outside. But on the inside I felt ashamed of myself because of my sins.

How could I possibly create and publish a magazine about following Jesus when I am so broken and struggling to follow Him myself ? Did God make a mistake giving this dream to me?

She told me something that I’ll never forget. “Emilee,” she said, “God uses broken people to do amazing things for His Kingdom.”

So my sweet sister in Christ, I want you to know that no matter how broken, how ashamed and unworthy you may feel, Jesus loves you unconditionally. He uses broken people to accomplish incredible things for His name because He loves us.

You, sweet reader, are anointed by God Himself “to bring good news” (Isaiah 61:1). You are worthy. You are loved.

Your brokenness has been made whole by the Maker of the Universe. Don’t let the Enemy and the World tell you any differently.

Love, your sister in Christ,

Emilee Burroughs Founder and Editor-in-Chief

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Love Story

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in this issue Nailed It!

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The Great Unknown

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Models

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Beautifully Broken, Yet Wonderfully Whole

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Au Naturel Hair

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June/July 2017

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love ry sto

Let your inner romantic side shine through this summer with flowy fabrics and floral prints.

cute kimono

Top off a cute blouse with a sheer, flowy kimono.

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flower power

The flowers are blooming, and so are floral prints!

June/July 2017

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darling denim

Top off your outfit with a cute denim vest.

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Nailed It!

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Tired of the same old mani? Try this easy (and cute!) nail look. All you need are two nail polishes and some clear tape.

Paint a base coat of Pacifica’s 7 Free Pale Blue Eyes. Let dry before applying a second coat.

Take a strip of clear tape and lay it over your nail diagonally. Lay another strip of tape diagonally on top of the first strip of tape, forming a triangle.

Using Pacifica 7 Free nail polish in Hustle, paint the triangle created by the two pieces of tape.

Wait until your nails dry before removing the tape. Finish off with a topcoat of clear polish.

Pacifica 7 Free Nail Color in Hustle and Pale Blue Eyes. $9 each. Available at Ulta.

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Beautifully Broken, Yet Wonderfully Whole Exchanging shame for God’s forgiveness

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Story and photo by Emilee Burroughs

hame is a powerful emotion — it can hold you tightly in its grasp, squeezing out all your hope and joy. It reminds you of what you’ve done in the dark — what you did with your boyfriend, cheating on a test, lying to your parents — so that you won’t bring your sins into the light.

Satan uses shame to make us feel broken and hopeless. The Enemy doesn’t want us to accept God’s forgiveness for our sins. So he lies to you by whispering, “You’ll never be whole again. God will never forgive you — you aren’t worthy of His forgiveness.”

But Beloved, Christ speaks gently to your heart and says, “I forgive you. I took on your sins when I died on the cross to make you whole. Give me your guilt and shame, for it is not of me.”

I know what shame feels like: my sins filled me with shame, so I cried out to God, asking Him for His forgiveness. And then I sinned again.

My shame and brokenness made me feel unworthy of God’s love and forgiveness. I felt like such a hypocrite continuing to make Anointed.

Satan constantly told me that I shouldn’t be making a Christian magazine when I had acted so un-Christ like.

But the Holy Spirit told me His truth: I am beautifully broken, but Christ has made me wonderfully whole. This means that, while we are broken because of our sin, we are remade into something wonderfully whole through Christ’s love and grace. Try as hard as we may, we can never make ourselves whole on our own. Only Christ can, and He longs to. When He looks at you, He doesn’t see a broken, unlovable, sinful person — He sees His beautiful, righteous and whole daughter.

I know from experience that shame oftentimes

sounds louder than truth. But shame and guilt are from Satan. He uses them like a megaphone to shout insults and lies to you in the hopes that they’ll drown out God’s truth and you’ll keep your sins in the dark.

My beloved sister, bring those sins and shame out of the dark and into God’s cleansing light.

Here are God’s truths about forgiveness: “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.” -1 Peter 2:24 “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”

-Romans 3:22-24 “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” -Acts 3:19 “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.” -Ephesians 1:7 Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross covers all your sins — past, present and future. He sees you as wonderfully whole. My sweet sister, let’s both ask Him to open our eyes to see ourselves this way as well.

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Artwork by Shenandoah Phillips.

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How Shenandoah Phillips is spreading the message of self-love, one card at-a-time.

Story by Emilee Burroughs June/July 2017

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The saying, “We’re our own worst critics,” is very true.

We judge every part of our appearance, from our hair to our bodies to our looks. Living in a world where beauty is used to sell everything from fast food to skincare makes you feel like you don’t measure up to the world’s standards of beauty. Makeup companies tell us to cover up and hide our “flaws” and “imperfections” by slathering on more beauty products.

But for entrepreneur Shenandoah Phillips, this is far from true. Her business No Flaw In You is a lifestyle brand that features Scripture and artwork to inspire women and girls alike to see their beauty in Christ.

“The world has a very specific definition of ‘beauty,’” Shenandoah said, “and if our bodies do not fit into this description, we resultantly have insecurities and believe lies like, ‘You aren’t pretty enough, skinny enough or good enough to be loved.’ Through my relationship with Jesus, I have recognized the negative feelings and lies that I feel 12

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about myself. Instead of allowing my mind to be ruled by the world’s definition of ‘beauty,’ I partner with Him to shed light on my insecurities so that I can see and love myself as He does. He has provided and continues to provide me with a foundation of truth on which I stand in confident of my identity and value.”

I met Shenandoah at a local coffee shop to talk about her business. As soon as I walked in the door, I was greeted with a warm smile and a hug. Shenandoah’s warmth and friendliness are one of the first things you notice about her. She immediately puts you at ease and treats each person she meets like they’re an old friend. Her easygoing spirit and love for Christ draw people to her.

She radiates confidence, but she said she wasn’t always this way. She said her own struggles with inspired her to start No Flaw In You. “Growing up, I always struggled with my body image and self-esteem, and where I had a paradigm change of

discovering my identity and self-worth was from Jesus,” she said. “I believe most girls express self-esteem issues, as I have, and I want to use my art to help them with these struggles and to show them that we are worth so much more than just what we look like.”

The name “No Flaw In You” comes from Song of Solomon 4:7, “Every part of you is so beautiful my love; there is no flaw in you.” Shenandoah said this is her favorite verse. “I knew when I started my life brand, I wanted to incorporate this verse in the title because it perfectly articulates the values I try to teach other women.”

These values are self-love, finding your identity in Christ and seeing your beauty and worth in Him. Anointed: How has Christ used you and your business to minister to girls and women?

Shenandoah: “I know I am not alone in the struggles of not practicing self-love, so I am honest and vulnerable with others about my history and insecurities in hopes that they will too open up or realize that they are not alone in experiencing those same feelings. I have had the privilege of seeing individuals brought to tears by the verses I have chosen to use in my art, and the fact that I get to be a part of the experience of God touching peoples’ hearts and reminding them of His love for them is amazing.”

Do you have any neat stories about how your products have encouraged someone else?

“I have had many special experiences where people are touched by the verses in my artwork. One of my most cherished memories was when I noticed a woman wearing an anchor necklace. I complimented her on it and pointed out my artwork that also had an anchor on it. She then shared that she was battling cancer and that an anchor reminded her that her strength was anchored in Christ. As she teared up, I hugged her and handed her the anchor set and thanked her of her courage and vulnerability and asked her to use the cards as a reminder that she is not alone and she would win this.

That is what my mom calls a ‘God moment.”’

Why, in your opinion, is it important for girls and women to see that their beauty is in Christ?

“Girls, women, men and boys of all ages are taught that they have to look a certain way to be considered beautiful or handsome. The world has its own definition of beauty that is not rooted in truth. It highlights the importance of physical perfection and puts far too

much value on our outer appearance. Jesus sees things differently. He sees us and loves us completely in all our perfect ‘imperfections.’ So, for that, I say it is much better to have the maker of the world be the definer of our beauty and worth rather than the world.”

In what ways is No Flaw in You helping women see that their beauty is in Christ?

“The literary sources of all of my artwork are inspirational quotes and verses from the Bible. These uplifting and inspiring words help give women of all ages truths about their value and helps teach them to practice self-worth and self-love. These quotes remind us to have Jesus as the source of our identity rather than the world.”

To shop Shenandoah’s store, visit: Etsy: NoFlawInYou Facebook: No Flaw In You Instagram: no.flaw.in.you

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Photo by Lee Anne Burroughs Story by Emiee Burroughs

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Dear recent graduate, Congratulations! Whether you recently graduated from middle school, high school or college, you just reached a huge milestone in your life. Now that your classes are over and the summer is finally here, you may feel anxious about the future. I get it: the unknown is scary. The road ahead of you may seem obscured by clouds of uncertainty, and you can’t see two steps ahead of you. But take comfort in the knowledge that you have a Guide who walks alongside you. He knows what lies on the path ahead of you, and He will lead you step-by-step.

If you’re anything like me, you think about life after graduation more times than you’d like to admit.

Leaving behind a place that you’re familiar with and going someplace new is terrifying. But good things are in store for you as you move onto the next stage of your life. C.S. Lewis once said, “There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

On May 6, I walked across a stage to receive my college diploma. Four years of hard work as an undergrad have led up to this rewarding moment. But what happens now that I have my degree? Will I miraculously have a revelation about what I’m supposed to do with my life? Probably not. But while I don’t know what will happen next in my life, I rest in the assurance that Jesus knows.

Trusting God with your summer and post-graduation plans are easier said than done. It’s difficult at times to entrust your future to God, especially when you don’t know what comes next. The alternative to trusting God—worrying—may seem like an easier option. However, worrying about the future gives you a false sense of control. The keyword here is false: worrying does nothing to alleviate that anxious feeling in your stomach as you think about starting high school, college or a new job. You can make as many Plan B’s, C’s and D’s as you want, but ultimately, God is in control of the future. So rest in the certainty that the One who created you also created your future.

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Lately I’ve been reading Romans 8:28 whenever I find myself worrying about my post-graduation future. This verse says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (NIV).

This verse reassures me that no matter how uncertain the future may seem, God is in control of every detail of it. As his daughters, we can be “confident that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ” (Philippians 1:6, NIV).

The last verse I want to leave you with is Jeremiah 29:11, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (NIV).

God knows all about your fears of the future and wants you to give those fears over to Him. Although you may not know right now what His plans for you are, you can know that His plans for your life are good. He will never leave your side as you two continue walking along the path of life.

Enjoy your time in high school or college, and when it does come to an end, trust that God will show you what adventures are next!

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There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind.

-C.S. Lewis

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Au-Naturel Hair A guide to hair care

By Miriam Williams Graphic by FreePik.com

“Going natural” is a common phrase for women with African hair.

I have worn my hair natural since October 2016 when I switched from wearing my hair chemically relaxed to using no chemicals whatsoever. My mom and sister, Joy, have worn their hair natural all their lives. From our experience, when it comes to caring for our hair, the important things we remember are moisturization, cleansing, choosing the right products, choosing a flattering hairstyle, and, if interested, finding a fabulous color to help with our hair texture!

Moisturization: Moisturization is extremely important for African hair because it keeps the scalp hydrated and healthy.

From my experience, lack of moisture causes dryness, breakage, dandruff and a flaky scalp. Depending on your hair type and thickness, a moisturizer may be applied daily or a few times a week between washing. Adding moisture after washing is especially important for curly hair. If the hair dries without added moisture, it will be harder to manage or comb later until a moisturizing product is applied. The best advice for finding moisture is to try different products and see which one best suits your hair curl and thickness. Some products may work while others simply will not … at all!

If you are like me and have fine, thick, tight and curly afro hair, you may want to choose a cream moisturizer and one or two oils to apply during the week. I use a light cream product called Grow Strong by the brand Cantu. I also like tea tree, argon, coconut, and black Jamaican castor oil. I am very athletic, so these oils keep my hair light while I work out and don’t cause buildup or unpleasant odors. To stay inexpensive with your product search, find a store with consistent sales and coupons.

Cleansing: Oh my gosh! Conditioner became my best friend when I went natural! I use a conditioner once-to-twice a week. Growing up with relaxed hair, I was told that overconditioning my hair would cause it to fall out (which is true). Surprisingly, you cannot over condition natural African hair!

My favorite shampoos and conditioners are by a brand called OGX. The best prices and varieties are at Walmart. Any of these shampoos are great for African hair because many contain useful oils to help moisturize your hair while you wash it. For frequent washings during the week, sometimes I use a co-wash cleanser. Basically, this is a cleansing conditioner so you do not have to use shampoo or 16

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products with too many chemicals. It really works, and they make my hair hydrated and super soft! My favorite co-wash is coconut by the brand name Eden: Body Works, found at Walmart.

Fun Fact: Don’t be discouraged when you don’t find products that work! Joy and I both have natural hair; however, we use products that are as different as night and day. Joy’s hair is extremely thick, spongy, bouncy and curly. It looks short, but the shrinkage is real! Her hair is actually down her back when flat-ironed.

Tip: Heating tools can be your enemy if you apply them too frequently to African hair. It slowly takes away the natural curl and can cause heat damage if applied too often. If you like flat-ironing or hot-curling your hair, use a protective heat spray or oil and wrap or ponytail the hair at night to keep from repeating the heat the next morning. Use hair rollers or flexible curling rods to maintain curls.

Choosing the Right Products: The list of hair products on the store shelves seems endless. What should you buy for your hair?

Begin by paying attention to your hair’s natural tendencies.

Does is poof or frizz with humidity? Does it constantly seem too dry while still consuming the products you use? Does it reject the creams and oils you apply? Are your products strong enough?

Do you have a sensitive scalp? Many hair products state on the bottles or packaging the type of hair it best caters to. Look for products that specifically state what your hair needs. For example, look for “adds moisture,” “hydration,” “prevents breakage,” “adds shine,” etc. You may need a separate product for each need or one with combined benefits.

Also, pay attention to the season. I use lighter products in the spring and summer and apply products less frequently because of humidity and heat. In the fall and winter, I treat my hair with moisturizers almost daily. Everyone’s hair is unique. Once you find what works for you, it will be well worth the shopping!

Choosing a Flattering Hairstyle: I like to explore Google and find new hair styles that I like and that fit my hair length. I’ll either go to the salon or try them at home. Choosing a hairstyle can be as simple as choosing your favorite outfit. It should flatter you, fit you and make you smile every time you cross the mirror! I often style my hair the same every day because it’s cute and easy. My hair is shorter when I only comb-and-go. Other days, I set my hair the night before with small rollers or two-strand twists for a bigger, fluffier hairdo the next morning when I style the curls and waves.

Find what fits you and have a beyoutiful day!

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Meet the Models Sara Arms

Sara, 20, is from Nashville TN! She is a Communications and Theatre major at Berry College who loves to read, write and act. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends or catching up on the latest crime TV drama.

Her favorite bible verse is, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).

Joy Williams I’m 13-years-old, and I’m in the 8th grade. I am homeschooled. My favorite hobbies are singing, spending time with my friends and baking. I often bake cakes and pastries for my friends and large family. I am the sixth born of seven children. My favorite Bible verse is John 3:16 because it shows the great measure of how much God loves us and has created a home for us in heaven. It also says that God still loves us and wants us even while we are sinners — so much, that He gave His only son, Jesus Christ.

One of my favorite places to go is church. There are many fun activities to attend and opportunities to serve, everyone is friendly, and I have made many new friends there. I made Jesus Christ a part of my life as my Lord and Savior and was baptized a few years ago. I have a big heart for children and volunteering to use my nurturing gifts and talents. My favorite part about church are the weekly Bible study groups because I get to hang out more with friends and volunteer in the children’s ministry. My dad is also a pastor, so I have grown up in the church.

Some of my other hobbies that I enjoy are Zumba, painting abstract art, looming rubber band jewelry for myself and friends and learning karate. I am an advanced student in karate and only four belts away from my goal of being a black belt. When I grow up, I plan on being a pastry chef and owning a bakery shop.

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Miriam Williams “For such a time as this!” these words come from the scripture Esther 4:14 in the Holy Bible. These six words characterize me so well, they have become my “watch-words” and life verse. These words strike me because I believe God is intricately detailed in how He desires to use us as He used Esther in the Bible. After studying her story when I was 14, my personal prayer has been to grow into the young woman God desires me to be so He can use me to be a modern-day Esther.

My name is Miriam Hope Williams. I am the third born of seven children and am 21-years-old. I thoroughly enjoy writing, reading God’s amazing Word, leadership, mentoring middle schoolers, teaching martial arts, baking homemade bread, running, photography, drinking coffee, chocolate, drinking more coffee, dark chocolate and far too many other things to list in a bio.

I recently graduated with my Associate’s Degree in Business Management from Southern Crescent Technical College. I plan to further my education in the Fall of 2017 for a degree in Organizational Leadership. The Lord has given me a heart for people and a passion for leadership and entrepreneurship. My desire is to use my gifts and education to minister to young girls through a ministry supported by a business that is mission-minded. When I was 12, I started a jewelry business called Queen Esther Jewelry & Designs. When I was 18, I founded a nonprofit ministry for girls called Young Esther Ministries. I plan to continue following God’s leading on how to successfully launch these two projects and be a world-shaking businesswoman for His kingdom.

Interested in modeling or writing for Anointed?

Email info@anointedmag.com for information on ways you can get involved!

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