K.I.S.H. Magazine Fall Issue featuring Kelly Crews

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K.I.S.H. HOME,INC.’s vision is to purchase a transitional home for young women presently in or aged out of the foster care system in Delaware.

For more information about helping us to purchase the home, visit... www.kishhomeinc.org or call 302-399-6477.

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K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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Kingdom Investments in Single Hearts

K.I.S.H. Magazine represents our desire to EDUCATE, EMPOWER, and INSPIRE everyone from all walks of life to EMBRACE the New YOU! The magazine focuses on foster care “Stories of Hope” as well as, Health/Wellness, Fashion, Relationships & much more!

Thank you for purchasing this magazine. Portions of the proceeds will go towards purchasing a 24-hour supervised residential home for young women ages 18-23 who are presently in, or have aged out of the foster care system in Delaware.

For more information about K.I.S.H. Magazine or K.l.S.H. HOME, INC. contact us at (302) 399-6477 or www.kishhomeinc.org.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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C O NT E NT S

Fall/Winter 2015

COVER STORY

14

FEATURE ARTICLES 8

Unwrap The Hidden Qualities Within LaQuisha Williams

9 Walking in Power & Purpose Evangelist Sylinda D. Mumphery

10 A Foster Mom’s Story Pastor Judy Shipley

IN EVERY ISSUE

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LETTER FROM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

by Dr. Kishma A. George

26 Kathleen Ellis Topic: Believe it! See it! Speak it! Do it!

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FEATURE - About K.I.S.H. Home, Inc.

28 Pastor Jermaine Scott, Sr. Topic: KEEP DREAMING!

16 Author’s Spotlight by Romella Vaughn Topic: I’m Now Living My Life- “BRAND NEW”

30 Mr. Kenny & Mrs. Tamiko Pugh Topic: Our LOVE Story

HEALTH / BEAUTY / FASHION 18 HEALTH: James F. George Topic: Taking Health to Work

31 Prophetess Darlene Tilley Topic: The Power of Prayer

20 BEAUTY: Amber Johnson Topic: When You look Good, You feel Good

32 Jessica Mosley Topic: The Making of a Proverbs 31 Woman

21 FASHION: Dell Scott Topic: Fierce Fall Style

33 Minister Richard & Evangelist Nephetina Serrano Topic: God has a Plan for Marriage

EMPOWERMENT SECTION:

22 YOUTH EMPOWERMENT - Topaz A. Bryant Topic: Under the Influence 24 Mr. Kyron & Mrs. Kishma George Topic: The Dreams Have ABSOLUTELY No Expiration Date 2

SINGLES/RELATIONSHIPS/MARRIAGES SECTION:

36 Apostle John F. Harris Topic: The Prophetic Treasure Chest 37 Apostle Lakesha Savage Topic: A Pure Vessel 39 Dr. Tamarrah Tarver Topic: Polished Gem 40 Evangelist Tanika Bryant Topic: From Prostitution to Pulpits 41 Transition from a Single Mother to Wife by Simra Grant Dalmida 42 Tamie Collins Markee Topic: Gain from the Pain 43 Dr. Naim Collins Topic: Prophetic Habitation

Inspirational Section:

35 Dr. Hakeem Collins Topic: The Prophetic Roar K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2013

IN EVERY ISSUE

Letter From the Editor-In-Chief

W

elcome current and new readers of K.I.S.H. Magazine!

Summer is over, and we close out the season with our Fall/Winter issue for 2015. We have worked endlessly to collect heartfelt articles for our fall/winter line; just in time to warm you, yet keep you moving forward

into your next season.

These articles will inform, inspire, and motivate you to be all you can be mentally, emotionally, socially, physically and spiritually. These articles will embolden you to lay the foundation for thinking and acting out of “the box” if you have not done so already.

This final 2-cover issue is just a glimpse of powerful life changing events for you to glean from, with testimonies and interviews of Dr. Ben Tankard and Prophetess Kelly Crews.

Additionally, in this issue are life after foster care, empowerment, health, & wellness, Author’s Spotlight, and fashion, just to name a few.

Thank you again for supporting K.I.S.H. Magazine, a project birthed out to raise funds to purchase a home, which will be a 24-hour supervised residential home to serve the young women ages 18-23 years old that are presently in, or aged out of the foster care system in Delaware, as they become independent. We will be supportive to make sure that they have a smooth transitioning from foster care to the real world. We want to help the young women to become world changers in making it a better place for themselves and everyone to live in.

As always, thank you returning readers for your ongoing support. And welcome new readers! We look forward to seeing you again for the 2016 Spring/Summer Issue. We know there are many magazines to be a part of, and we are pleased you chose K.I.S.H. Magazine. Be EMPOWERED and remember that there is GREATNESS inside of YOU!

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Attention Readers: Want to be on the K.I.S.H. Magazine Inside Track? What are you waiting for? Log onto www.kish-magazine.com and subscribe to get exclusive news, info, articles & more sent directly to your inbox!

By Dr. Kishma A. George Editor-in-Chief / Visionary www.kishmageorge.com Like Us On Facebook /KishmaGeorge Follow Us On Twitter @kishmageorge

K

.I.S.H. (Kingdom Investments in Single Hearts) Home, Inc. was founded by Kishma A. George, out of the desire to make an impact in the lives of girls & women in the community, as well as young women who are presently in, or aged out of the foster care system in Delaware. Through Ms. George’s works as an Independent Living Mentor, she has mentored young adults.

During her tenure as a mentor she witnessed the tremendous challenges these young people experienced daily, while trying to find their way to a self-sufficient and stable life.

A passion within her grew for these young adults and their future as she experienced their frustration in handling basic skills, such as opening a checking/savings account, parenting, and the frustration of single parenthood. Ms. George knew that these young adults - whether they were a single parent or single without children - needed a strong support system that would empower and encourage them to take control of their lives. They struggled in the transition of leaving their foster homes or care because many were still attending high school and were not emotionally or financially stable.

Many of the young adults with whom Ms. George worked left their foster homes or care at the age of 18, and found themselves homeless, pregnant, lacking self-esteem, incarcerated or unemployed, and without guidance. She became frustrated by

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the minimum amount of resources the community offered these young adults and wanted to make a difference in their lives, making certain that they had a safe; successful transition to adulthood and independent living. It was then that Ms. George began her journey of seeking ways to assist young adults in becoming emotionally and economically self-sufficient so that their transition out of foster care and into independent living was successful.

Established in August 2008 as K.I.S.H. Home, Inc. the organization’s goal is to offer young women in Delaware the support they need to become emotionally stable and self-sufficient in every aspect of their lives and community.

What K.I.S.H. means‌

KINGDOM: The Kingdom of God will be built through the ministry of K.I.S.H. Home, Inc. by incorporating programs that will encourage girls and young women to make an impact in the world.

INVESTMENTS: An investment of time and life enrichment activities will be implemented in such a way that will empower girls and young women to change their lives.

SINGLE: Empowering single girls and women.

HEARTS: Helping girls and young women discover their potential in becoming worldchanging leaders by pursuing their Godgiven dreams, goals and visions.

Kingdom Investments in Single Hearts (K.I.S.H.) Home, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit, faith-based organization that empowers, educates, heals and inspires teen girls & women ages 13-25. K.I.S.H. Home, Inc. is currently raising funds to purchase a 24-hour supervised residential home for young women ages 18-23 who are presently in, or aged out of the foster care system in Delaware. Our vision is to provide a transitional home and the goal is to offer alternatives for this high risk population and minimize homelessness, poverty, unplanned pregnancies, substance abuse and incarceration among young women presently in, or aged out of foster care.

K.I.S.H. Home, Inc. also offers a Women Destined for Greatness (WDFG) Mentoring Program for girls and young women ages 13-25 in Delaware. WDFG is committed to inspiring girls and young women to develop self-awareness; promote excellence in the mind, body and spirit; as well as empowering them to increase their creativity, self-esteem, and self and net worth by implementing programs that teach them how to make an impact in their family and community.

To help make this transition home happen, you can send donations to: K.I.S.H. Home, Inc., P.O. BOX 672, Felton, DE 19943 Or online at www.kishhomeinc.org

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

Unwrap the Hidden Qualities Within I

Feature

by LaQuisha Williams

believe that world-class is present in each of us. However, in order to recognize it in others, you must first recognize it in yourself. I have concluded that many women are not able to be great spouses, mothers, and girlfriends because they are not good to themselves. We are constantly looking outside of ourselves to find that missing void, when that void is within each of us.

I created the World-Class Movement to conceive awareness that our sisters matter. We must come to the realization that wherever we are in our life today, we are to take 100% responsibility for everything that has happened to us up until this point. Many of us are not able to authentically and genuinely love others is because we are not in love with ourselves, making it difficult to have authentic relationships with others. This happens when something traumatic has happened to us that we have yet to address. I love the saying, “Becoming a victim is not your fault, but staying one is.� To create healthy relationships, we must be able to take 100% for where we are now.

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K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

Unwrap the Hidden Qualities Within Continued...

ARE YOU READY TO TAKE THE JOURNEY? As Harley Davidson says, “When writing the story of your life, don’t let anyone else hold the pen.” The Bible states that we are to love our neighbors as thyself. It is going to take work in that we are to look into the mirror, repeat affirmations, and self-talk. Many women have beaten themselves down so much that they are not able to see the greatness that lies within. It takes going back to those events that happened in our lives and addressing the situations.

I went on a journey of self-discovery.

Although, I heard the Word that says I was fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), I did not believe. Although, I heard that I am the apple of God’s eye (Psalm 17:8), I did not believe. I heard I am God’s masterpiece (Eph.2:10), but I did not believe. How many of you know that God will take you on a journey that only you have to go through? My pastor

parents have instilled Christian values in me, but I continued to compare myself to what “I thought” was the better way. I attempted to change my name, because of what society said instead of redefining it. I tried to blend in with others that I thought were cool. I tried to change my accent so I can sound like other people.

I quickly realized that I was chipping away all the unique things that God created. The Word states in Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” God had a plan for me before my parents got together, how selfish it was of me to not be happy with His creation! How many of you are unhappy with your appearance or unique things about you that set you apart? I ask you to forgive yourself and begin to write a new chapter.

I will leave you with these ideas to start your new chapter.

•

•

•

•

Start talking positively to yourself. Do not wait for someone to invite you to his or her stage. Create a stage of your own and speak your truth.

Understand that self-discovery takes time and is made of lots of little actions, repeated on a daily basis.

Embrace the fact that you were not called to be average; you were called to the nations.

You must die to your old way of thinking.

In closing, all women should continue to possess the attributes of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and goodness. Now you can be a world-class woman too!

Walking In Power and Purpose

by Sylinda Mumphery

Life will bring many interruptions; however, it is up to you to decide which direction you will chose to take when it seems that everything has come to a standstill. You can either die in the midst of your storm or decide to swim to the other side of the shore where your blessings await you. I experienced two breast cancer scares, losing my home, automobile, and marriage in one year. I decided that I was not going to lose my mind and that my determination was greater than my situation. After my husband told me that I would not make it without him, I rolled up my sleeves and took my life back from the hands of the enemy. I was persistent in not giving up and knew that there was greatness inside of me.

As women, we have the power to carry a generation in our womb. We were meticulously designed and hand crafted by God Himself. There are times that we have to wear many hats— mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, etc. and in the midst of it all, we sometimes lose ourselves. Many of us have bandaged our wounds, due to unfortunate circumstances that occurred in our lives. We must have a reassurance in knowing that we are NOT what happened to us nor should we allow it to become attached to us in anyway.

You must be willing to face the giants that come in your life with a voice of command for them to fall down. God created you ON PURPOSE and WITH a PURPOSE, therefore you should never allow anyone to write your life story. I want to encourage women everywhere to keep pushing, praying and to never give up. I declare that this year is the YEAR of the LADY and every bandage will fall as we all walk in complete wholeness, peace, and joy. When you discover the greatness inside of you, it causes a sense of fear to every attack and plan that was set out to destroy you. Every portion of your being carries electricity that lights up wherever you go, because you WALK in FAVOR. Remember to speak life to everything that lies dormant within because you are a LADY of POWER, PROMISES, and PURPOSE.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

Sylinda Mumphery is an author, mentor, youth, and women empowerment speaker, Radio Talk Show Host and the founder of SylindaD, LLC. She can be booked at www.sylindad.com.

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Children Born In My Heart A Foster Mom’s Story

By Pastor Judy Shirley

I have never given birth to a baby. I have never experienced the excitement of carrying a child for nine months and all of the movement of the baby inside and the expectation of that new life. I have never had the joy of bringing that baby home and knowing that a little bundle of joy was now changing my life forever. However, my life is filled with children and I will tell you some of what I have experienced.

I remember it like it was yesterday. It was 1983 and I was so desperate to have a child. I had been married for a number of years and we were trying to get pregnant, but with no results. My husband (at the time) and I were pastoring a church in Philadelphia and our lives were very full with starting a church and pastoring full time. However, there was something that superseded all thoughts and desires and that was my longing to have a child of my own to nurture and raise. I would pass people in the mall with babies and I would stare with longing until they were well out of sight. I wanted a child so desperately. It was all I thought of and prayed for. For one solid year, I sought the Lord pouring out my desire to have a baby.

I just knew if Hannah prayed and God heard her prayer that He would hear mine also.

This longing was so great that I did not want to have preachers and their wives come to minister for us if they had small children or babies. It only reinforced the fact that my womb was barren and that I had not been able to conceive. One day after being away 10

for a couple of nights, I returned home to find a note in my husband’s office. The note said, “There is a little baby who needs to be adopted. Is there anyone in your church that would be interested?” I had never entertained the thought of adoption or raising a child that I did not give birth to.

My thoughts had only been concerned with birthing my own child. Nevertheless, when I saw the note, immediately I said, “We do.

We want this baby.” I did not know anything about the child but I knew I wanted him/ her.

My husband made a phone call and we discovered that it was a pastor friend of ours who had a lady in his church that was looking to give her baby girl up for adoption. She was twenty-one months old and was bi-racial. Her family did not accept a child of bi-racial origin and she did not want the baby growing up and feeling rejection. They contacted my husband and I because our church was a church of all nationalities. They thought we might have a couple in our congregation that would give the baby a home. That was a Monday and on Wednesday, we boarded an airplane to pick up our child.

When we got off the airplane, there waiting at the gate was the pastor and his wife and a beautiful little baby girl in a stroller. As soon as I saw her, she looked up at me. Someone walked by carrying some balloons and she said, “Mommy” and pointed at the balloons.

From that moment forward, I was Mommy

in her life. I knew that was a confirmation from the Lord that this little precious girl was being given to me by God. Her name was Leah Gabriel, but we renamed her Gabrielle Lee. She was a beautiful baby with curly dark brown hair. She had on a little yellow dress with a white pinafore and black velvet shoes. She came with a tiny suitcase with a pink blanket in it. God had finally answered my prayers and given me the desire of my heart. From that moment forward, I never experienced the longing again that I had to have a baby. Gabrielle was my gift from God and answered desire. When I hear people talking about giving birth I never feel as though I have missed anything. This child was born in my heart and birthed through prayer.

My husband passed away when Gabrielle was eleven years old and up until she was a young adult, I raised her as a single mom.

We were and still are very close and God put a bond between us. Gabrielle knew she was adopted but never felt that she had missed anything by not been raised by her birth parents. She came to know that she was given by God and is a precious and chosen gift.

When Gabrielle was around eighteen years old, our pastor’s daughter in our church, Victory Christian Fellowship became a foster parent. Laurie’s first child that she received was a thirteen year-old named Tiffany.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

A Foster Mom’s Story | Continued From the moment Tiffany came, it seemed she was at my house a lot. Whenever there was a holiday or Laurie needed childcare, Tiffany would come and stay with me. There came a time that Laurie became engaged to her childhood sweetheart, Feb Idahosa.

Feb lived in Nigeria and Laurie was going to move there after the wedding. On one of those times that Laurie was away, Tiffany was again at my house. One day we were at a restaurant eating dinner and Tiffany said, “Pastor Judy, if Laurie moves to Nigeria, I don’t want to go live in Nigeria. Can I come and live with you?” At that point, I had never thought of becoming a foster parent, but I said, “Well, let’s just pray about it.” It seemed in a whirlwind, Laurie got married, and Tiffany moved in with me. I quickly and seemingly overnight became a foster parent.

I remember the first night after receiving approval as a foster parent and Tiffany moving into my home, I was lying in bed and became petrified thinking “What have I done?” I have this child who is thirteen, that I did not raise and how am I going to handle this. However, in my heart,I knew this was another child that was being birthed in my heart. Therefore, I committed my way to the Lord and asked for peace for this journey.

Tiffany had a very rough life before coming into foster care and there were a lot of struggles. She had two brothers and one of her brothers would come and stay with us from time to time. One of the things I realized as a foster parent is that no matter what a parent had done, that child still longed for the parent. Their home could have been a literal hellhole, but that child still missed and longed for the parent. Knowing this, I made many sacrifices to keep Tiffany involved with her birth family. Her mother was in and out of jail, but on those times that she was out, there came a time that I would let her come and spend the night with Tiffany. One Thanksgiving, I allowed her to have total access to my kitchen and she cooked dinner for her boyfriend, two sons, and Tiffany. To see the joy on their faces to be in the same house eating together again was something that was so amazing. It was not always easy for me. There were a lot of challenges with having her mom come over from time to time. Nevertheless, it was so necessary for Tiffany to know that her mother loved her in spite of not being able to care for her and provide a stable home. As a foster parent, I K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

always knew my place in my foster children’s lives. I knew that I was not their birth parent, but I was there to raise them and prepare them for life during the time that their birth parents were not able to. I was never jealous of the love they have for their parents. I knew what my purpose was in their lives and why God placed them with me.

Tiffany had many struggles growing up.

Because of the entire trauma, she had experienced before coming into foster care and everything she had seen while with her mom, there were times that I did not think I could continue keeping her. Sometimes she would get very angry and would scream at me to get out of her room. I can only say that it was the grace of God that kept me from throwing her out. There was a time though that I called the social worker and said, “You will have to come and remove her. I can’t do this anymore.” I had caught Tiffany numerous times entertaining young men in my home and I would come in and surprise the situation! I have thrown many teenage boys out of my home. Therefore, I finally told Tiffany that she would have to go to a group home until they could find another placement for her. I remember that she turned white in her face and looked shocked. She never spoke and the social worker came and took her away. She went to a group home and that night about 10 p.m., she called crying and asked if she could come back home. The next morning, we met with the social worker and Tiffany signed a contract. In that contract were many guidelines, but number one was NO MORE VISITORS in my house without my permission. Tiffany signed and happily she came back home.

Through the years, Tiffany called me Pastor Judy and then Mama Judy and then finally Mom. My one goal was to see Tiffany graduate from high school and now on my wall hangs the picture of Tiffany in her graduation gown. This was a huge accomplishment for her. Tiffany now has two children, works and maintains an apartment. I am still mom and very involved in her life. She is a wonderful mother and I am very proud of her.

When Tiffany was around sixteen and Gabrielle had just gotten married, I began to sense that I was to take in another foster child. I started to pray about it and finally told the social worker that I was interested in

another teenage girl. Little did I know what was getting ready to materialize.

I finally received a call one day that they had not one, but two sisters who needed a home.

They had been raised in a drug-infested environment and had not seen their mother in three years. Their grandmother had done her best to raise them but she became ill and was no longer able to care for them. The older one was twelve years old and the younger one was eight. I was ok with the thought of the older one, but wondered how I would possibly manage an eight year old. My life was very busy with being a pastor and I still had Tiffany. So I asked if I could meet the girls first before making a decision.

The girls were currently at a neighbor’s home but could not stay there. There had been some incidents of abuse at the hand of the neighbor and the girls had to leave. When I called to set up the visit, the neighbor said, “Good, I will be so glad for them to leave.

The older one is okay but that younger one is something else.” I did not know what to expect and it was with great trepidation that I arrived at the house to pick them up.

When the girls came out of the house, they had great big smiles on their faces. It was as though I was the angel of light coming to deliver them out of their situation. As I sat and had lunch with them at a restaurant, it was very clear to me that these were two more children that were being birthed in my heart.

I took them to see my house and you would have thought it was a mansion. They looked around with awe and then begged me to let them come that very night. I did not have beds for them yet and they assured me that it was okay; they would sleep on the floor.

My heart was overwhelmed. After I dropped them back off, promising that I would see them soon, I called Pastor Faye (Victory Christian Fellowship) and said, “I have to get these girls.” Pastor Faye said, “Judy if the state is unable to provide beds, we will buy the beds for you.” The beds came before that Friday and I went to pick the girls up. The youngest one, Brittany was already calling me Mom. They both had such a need and desire for attention and love. It was all over their faces. A new chapter had begun.

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Brittany very strong willed needed a lot of attention. The older one, Alyssa was quiet and tended to stay in the background. It was very evident that she had experienced a lot of hurt and was dealing with the issues of abandonment from her birthmother.

Brittany was used to getting her way and would stomp her feet, scream, and throw herself on the floor if she did not get her way. I felt overwhelmed with the new situation. I remember one night after a particularly trying experience; I took Alyssa to her concert at school. She told me that no one had ever come to her concerts and I was determined to go. The night did not go so well and when we arrived at home, I told the girls to get out of the car and that I would be in the house soon. They both got out and I closed my eyes and laid my head back on the seat. I began to cry, pray, and tell the Lord that I did not know if I could handle this situation. I happened to look up, there were the two girls with their hands outstretched standing in the garage, and they were praying for me! This was just another incident of the grace of God that always came through.

I had to be very firm and even toned with Brittany because she would throw temper tantrums and was very determined to get her way. One day I dropped her off at her grandmother’s for a short visit. I bought the girls McDonalds on the way and left them at their mom mom’s with their food. After leaving, I called back to see how they were doing. I was informed that when Brittany opened her McDonald’s bag and saw onions on her burger that she threw her bag across the room and shouted, “ I’m not eating this!.” I turned my car around and headed right back to get the girls knowing that I had to establish in Brittany that this was not the appropriate way to act and would not be accepted. Counselors informed me that when Brittany became secure in her environment, that this behavior would stop. Soon it did and she became very well adjusted.

Alyssa on the other hand, was very quiet and kept all of her feelings inside. One time she told me that she never talked because no one had ever listened and she felt her opinion was not important. I learned that she would begin to open up if I had her come in my room and lay across my bed.

She would then open up and talk. Therefore, this became the talking place for Alyssa. All of my foster children were in counseling on a regular basis. One night Alyssa came 12

in the kitchen, handed her journal to me, and then walked out. I was in the middle of cooking dinner, but I opened up her journal and began to read. She had poured out her heart about the hurt she felt about her mother leaving and how she could not understand how someone could love you and then leave you. Then she wrote, “I feel like killing myself.” I quickly went and got her and called the counselor. After the counselor established a safety plan with her and Alyssa continued in the counseling, she started to get a little better. However, she still had such a longing for her mother and struggled greatly with her feelings of abandonment.

Brittany wanted me to adopt her and was very clear about this being her dream.

Alyssa on the other hand still had struggles about being in foster care and her desire for a relationship with her mom. Alyssa called me Pastor Judy for a long time before graduating to Mama Judy and then finally Mom. Finally, the girl’s mom returned to the area and I took them to their grandmother’s for a reunion with their mother. There were still a lot of issues with drugs and their mother of course was not able to care for them, but once again, I saw the importance of them being able to have limited contact with their mother and not just cut the relationship off.

Brittany had a lot of issues growing up. She got involved with a guy in a real abusive situation and it took a lot of prayer and counsel for that situation to end. She then started cutting herself and one night cut herself so severely, she had blood spurting out of her arm. She came screaming to our room, banging on the door. I took her to the emergency room and she required stitches for the cut. Through counseling and a lot of help, Brittany stopped cutting and is now a beautiful young lady. My husband and I fulfilled her dream when she was sixteen and adopted her.

All of my foster children required a lot of love, attention, affection, and patience. Only by the grace of God was I able to handle each situation asking God for wisdom.

One of the things that blessed our family tremendously was the man that the Lord suddenly brought into my life. I raised all of the girls as a single parent and was single for sixteen years until God gave us Chuck.

We were married in 2007 and suddenly my girls had a father that they had never

had. Gabrielle never knew her birth father, Tiffany and Brittany did not know who their birth father was, Alyssa had only met hers one time, and there was no contact with him. So this was another dream come true for my girls to finally have a father. He had two adopted children so our lives changed drastically as we blended our two families together. That is another whole story that would take a book to write!

My goals for my foster children were primarily to see them graduate from high school, be able to live independent lives, and taking care of themselves. It was very clear to me that they never would have graduated from high school had they remained in their unstable home environments. Today in my family room, as a testament to the grace and mercy of God, my wall is lined with the graduation pictures of Gabrielle, Tiffany, Alyssa, and Brittany.

Life has not been easy but certainly worth it. I am forever thankful that I obeyed God and became a foster parent. All of my foster children are still involved in my life on a daily basis. Chuck and I are “Mom and Dad” and constantly offer support and guidance for their lives.

Gabrielle and her husband, Jesse have four children who adore her. Tiffany’s two children mean the world to her and she always puts them first. Alyssa is married to a wonderful man and has three children. She is an excellent mother and cares so much for her children. Brittany is giving birth to her first child and is engaged to a great young man who cares deeply for her. One thing is certain about all of our children; they will never abandon their children or see their children go into foster care. God has turned their lives around and they are precious adults now. The cycle has been broken!

I started out years ago, praying, and asking God for “a” child. God answered in a spectacular way by giving me six children and ten grandchildren. In addition, God gave me a wonderful husband to complete the circle. I am so grateful that I opened my heart and home to adoption and foster care. Otherwise, I would be very alone and unfulfilled as a mother. You do not always have to give birth to a child to have a child.

Adoption and foster care are just two of the ways to become a mother and change a child’s life forever. These children were all born in my heart!

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

FEATURE STORY

Kelly Crews By: Evangelist Trina Bowers

Prophetess Kelly Crews has so inspired me to just believe “The Favor Principle” and receive God’s favor by grace knowing that we all deserve it because it’s been given us by God! We are so excited to speak with Prophetess Kelly Crews. I know her as a powerful woman of God. I follow her on everything from Twitter to Instagram.

Trina Bowers (TB): I am honored to talk with you! Prophetess Crews! How are you?

Kelly Crews (KC): I am wonderful and how are you?

TB: I am doing great and we are so excited to have you in K.I.S.H. Magazine this season. I have been researching and did not know how many books you have written. You have written so many great books. Nevertheless, I wanted to talk to you about your new book because every time I hear the title it blesses me. So why did you write the book, The Favor Principle.

KC: Well, thank you first for having me and I am much honored to be featured. I definitely follow you and Kishma. I think you are great women of God. So thank you so much. God gave me the title, The Favor Principle, back in March of last year. He gave me a couple things and a couple of visions that I am branching out now but The Favor Principle was one of the titles that I heard for a couple books that I know I was supposed to release. This was one of them. As I was listening to God, I ‘googled’ it and I was like wow somebody had to have written a book called The Favor Principle by now. There was nothing like that at all. It kind of reminded me of Janet Jackson’s song “The Pleasure Principle” but no, The Favor Principle. The Favor Principle is the title that God began to download things to me in my spirit. First, I believe that 2015 is the year of “favor.” This may sound cliché to some people but when you really look at the meaning of favor, it is God’s preferential treatment. He is showing you favoritism in the earth. We are literally wired for it and God has put it in our DNA. Therefore, as I began to write the book, it takes you on a journey of favor and the fairness of favor. It tells how God has given you dominion since the beginning of time and created us to walk in the place of our God given right of obtaining favor.

TB: You know people always wonder about favor. Can you tell our readers how they can obtain God’s favor? Someone will read this article and wonder are they favored and how does he/she get it?

How do they get favor from God? KC: Favor is something that God has already granted us. There are Scriptures in which He has given us Dominion. Psalm 8: 4-6 talks about the dominion we have and we are placed just a little lower than the angels. Job talks about how he has been given favor. The Bible says I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord (Jeremiah 29:11). There are so many Scriptures in the Book.

God has already given it to you. It has been engrafted in you. It is already in the fiber of your being. It is something that we have to embrace with the mindset that we deserve the God given favor that is already obtainable to us. But most of time because of circumstances and situations we are so used to be in ‘‘if’’ and ‘‘maybe’’ situations and things that are temporary that we never embrace the permanency of God, the permanent residence that God has for us to obtain in His perfect grace and will for our lives.

Kelly Crews

Continued

TB: Wow, that is amazing! You know I follow you, see you talking about purpose all the time and you have a radio show called Walking in Purpose! I know you’ve been through many things in your life that’s gotten to your destiny and to your purpose. Why does purpose mean so much to you? A lot of people may not have the direction that they are supposed to have. Why are you so passionate about purpose?

KC: I am passionate about purpose because its goal directedness.

I love definitions because it makes you have clarity on that particular situation. A lot of people go through with no purpose. I had a meeting earlier today and it was simply somebody needing direction. A lot of people do not have direction. I know from what I have been through such as divorce, foreclosure, and some very difficult situations—the financial struggles and having two children as a single mother. Just being in a place where I felt like I was going to lose it. I had to work through certain situations and understand why I was going through what I went through at the end of my marriage. While now we are friendly and cordial, at the time it was very devastating. My ex-husband ended up marrying a woman that he cheated on me with for two years. I ended up in the hospital, was only 90 lbs. on Zoloft, and very depressed. So coming through all of that and still hearing God say if you allow me to re-wire you to love people I will accelerate the time and place you in a position where I allow you to see what I have for you. So in that God has really given me a capacity for people and wanting to see them survive and not only survive but survive and become successful.

TB: You look like victory! Tell us what’s happening in 2015 for Kelly Crews Ministries? Tell us what you are doing and where you will be in 2015!

KC: 2015 is already well under way and there are some great things happening. There will be some things announced later on in the year. God is doing some great things with the radio, television, my travelling and speaking. God has opened up doors all the way to the fall and even in 2016 already. God has opened up many doors and connections. I am very excited about that. I feel like I am going to release another book. This year will be one of the best years I have had yet! People can connect with me at www.kellycrews.org.

TB: Awesome, we are honored to have you here speaking to us for K.I.S.H. Magazine and I just want to tell you that I thank you. You are a wonderful woman of God! We are praying for great success for you in 2015! We are so honored to have talked to you! God bless you!

TB: You got me ready to run! (Laughs) I love people with great testimonies. You know through your testimony that you can find out who is with you and you find out who will stand by you. How did you make it through all your adversity in your life and be able to stand? Every time I see you, I see a woman of God but I see you standing in victory. The kind of stand where you are in the fire but when you come out you don’t smell any smoke! How did you handle it?

KC: Wow, in Isaiah 41, when you past through the waters and through the fire you will not be burned or scorched (Paraphrasing).

The only thing I can say is it is only by the grace of God. It is not that I have been perfect. I have made some errors in judgment and I have been through church hurt. There have been rumors and gossip but at the end of the day, God would always protect even when people tried to manipulate. After everything, that I have been through is that God gets all the credit. This is the only way I am here now and still standing in victory.

God has given you dominion since the beginning of time and created us to walk in the place of our God given right of obtaining favor.

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K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015 15

I’m Now Living My Life “BRAND NEW”

by Romella Vaughn

As a teenager, I not only worked, housed and provided for my baby, three younger siblings, and niece, I also provided for my divorced and eventually homeless parents. Childhood, for me, was nothing normal. I was forced to take on adult responsibilities at the age of ten — my load was heavy, to say the least. I did not quite understand why everything was put on me and I dreamed of one day having a better life with someone to turn to, depend on, and confide in. I knew I wanted a way out. The absence of my mother in my life taught me many things that I was forced to learn the hard way. Looking for love in all the wrong places, I began having sex at the tender age of 15. As uncomfortable as it was, it made me feel secure. I believed sex would guarantee love and solve all my problems.

Growing up, I continued the same pattern repeatedly, which left me heart broken and alone. While only making $5.35 an hour, and with government assistance, caring for my entire family made me want to just give up. Everything I endured was difficult and challenging. I had nowhere to turn. However, even in the midst of my difficulties, God was there with me and provided for my family and me. Although I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and unhappy, our needs were met; and that’s all that mattered.

In the year of 2014, my life made a complete 360-degree turn. The trails I experienced as a child, the infidelity in my marriage, the betrayal of friends, and all of the hurt, and pain that I endured had a huge effect on my life. I decided to ask God what my purpose was. God instructed me to write a book titled, Naked, which was the first step to my healing process. “God revealed to me that He wanted me to expose everything that I had gone through to heal His people.” Naked shares personal hurts, frustrations, disappointments, bitterness, setbacks, living without forgiveness in my heart, breaking patterns and how my relationship with Christ saved my life. It explains how forgiving others is the first step to a clean heart, clean mind, a happier life, and most of all a complete love of Christ.

Becoming naked before God and continuing my journey to fulfill my purpose, I exposed the true essence of the beauty of how to live past your hurt and worries. Today I continue to walk in purpose by uplifting and encouraging others, and trusting God’s plan for my life. I invite you to read the intimate mishaps of my life and my journey with God from deep hurt to dynamic healing. I AM NOW LIVING MY LIFE BRAND NEW.

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Connect With Romella Vaughn Websites: www.amazon.com & http://www.authorromellav.com Facebook: Romella Vaughn Instagram: _nakedbyauthorromellav

Author’s Spotlight

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

Taking Health to Work

I

by James Felix George

t’s no secret that our workday can be very hectic and that can make it very hard to accomplish healthy choices from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In addition to having a change of heart when it comes to eating last night’s meatloaf, the stress of a day’s work can turn the intent of healthy living into a comfort-food rave. Let’s face it, choosing healthy is much easier said than done.

Obviously this feature isn’t for those who have their healthy head on their shoulders — although if you have someone like this in your workplace, I would quickly attach hips with them — but this article here is for those who have not given up, but are still in the healthy lifestyle struggle.

The problem with “healthy living” is, it’s not a diet fad or a trend that will go away in a few years. It’s here for life…literally, so you won’t be able to release a sigh of relief when it blows over and everyone is focusing on the next new best thing. However, what’s also the good thing about “healthy living”, you get to try, try, and try again.

Here’s something to keep in mind; especially when you’re in the working environment, health is about more than food. It’s about mental stability, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy work environment.

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Here are a few key habits to practice while pushing the 9 to 5: • Food (of course, because this is my personal favorite pass time, it’s important to mention first): Keep healthy snacks at hand such as veggies, nuts, and fruits. The best vegetable to eat in my opinion is celery, which has no calories. Try it with some peanut butter, an oldie but goody…and a yummy. Carrots are also a tasty choice as well with your favorite dressing variety — light if you can stand it. For fruits, berries are high in fiber and low in sugar. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, zinc, iron, calcium, and magnesium. Another very tasty fruits are avocados.

They have twice as much potassium as bananas and are a good source of dietary fiber. They’re also rich monounsaturated fat, which can easily be burned for energy. As good as avocados are though, it’s recommended that you only eat a couple a week.

Finally, my wife’s new found chocolate substitute, dates. Dates are also high in fiber (so you may want to change up the fiber rich snacks…while at work…) and just a few will satisfy any sweet tooth. Make sure to get the pitted dates so you don’t have the sticky mess that goes with this natural sweetness. Remember to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated can prvent you from thinking that you’re hungry when in fact you’re just thirsty.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

“ •

Healthy living is more than nutrition.

It’s about mental and emotional stability, communication and appropriate relationships.

Exercise: Get up and move around. Whether you are an hourly employee, who by law is entitled to meal and rest periods, or whether you are salary and well…not entitled to meal and rest periods, taking breaks and at least 30 minutes to unwind, take a breather or anything unrelated to work is critical for short and long term physical. Your muscles not only will thank you for it, but it will improve your circulation and probably make you feel less tired and sluggish. Park your car further in the lot if you drive and try taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Remember, the more you move the less stagnate, and the more energized you’ll be! Taking periodic breaks throughout the day also help your mental and emotional health. How many times have you been stuck at a certain segment of your activities or plagued with a problem you could not solve, and all of a sudden, the space you’re in gets stuffy and claustrophobic. On the other hand, it may even feel your brain is losing oxygen. That’s when it’s time for a break. Take 10-15 minutes and go for a walk to take in fresh air and clear your mind. If you are in a place where outside access is not easily gained, get as far away from your office or work area as timely possible. Don’t take care of any personal business, just clear your mind. Heart attacks and strokes are the number one result of unmanaged workplace stress. Most employers today have wellness programs to help employees with managing and balancing a health work and home life. Find out what activities you can engage in during work hours and take advantage of it.

•

Manage your to-do list: One culprits of workplace frustration is disorganization and lack of planning. If you come to work every day without a game plan to tackle yesterday’s follow up needs and today’s new tasks, you’re already falling behind and in my opinion, have started out the day in frustration. Most experts recommend that you prepare the next day’s tasks before leaving work! Whether it’s the evening before or that morning, writing your list of what you must do and what you’d like to do for the day will help you manage distractions and interruptions.

You know, the co-workers who can’t seem to find any work so they’re always in your office. Or the colleagues that don’t understand that their urgency is not your urgency, and if they practiced a little time management of their own, they would ask for a report a week in advance, instead of the day before, or worst yet, an hour before the meeting! You get my drift. Other subtle distractions are emails that keep popping up and sales calls. It’s not always possible to stick to the plan, but it’s easier to manage situations that could lead to unnecessary stress.

•

X-nay the gossip: Not only is gossiping at work an opportunity and growth killer (an absolute NO! NO!), getting involved, even just listening, can damage your reputation. Listening to people’s problems is not the same as listening to a onesided story as they doggedly talk doggedly about a co-worker or boss who did them any wrong. While there are some no nonsense people, who will outright tell you, “If you’re here to talk about so and so, I can’t be a part of that.” Nevertheless,

let’s face it, the majority of people are not that forthcoming. So when you’re faced with dirty “water cooler” talk and you can’t be bold and still beautiful, the easiest thing for most people to do is look busy. Sometimes they’ll get you with the, “Do you have a minute?” and your short and dirty answer is, “Sorry, I don’t, I’m right in the middle of this report/project and really need to get it done.” There are a plethora of other tactics but I’ll name just one more. This one should be reserved for those who just don’t get the other hints (the chronic gossiper) Are you ready? Ignore them. See, I told you it was rude. But again, it gets the job done when all else fails. Quick example: When someone comes in, you have your head half turned towards him or her but you keep your eyes on the computer, feverishly typing…something. Bottom line is getting caught up in gossip eventually leads to other trouble in the workplace; damaged work relationships, distrust by your leaders — all of which on their own lead to an unhealthy workplace.

•

Maintaining healthy work relationships: This by far is probably one of the most important healthy work habits to form. You spend just as much time if not more, at work, than you do at home. There’s no stress like the stress of waking up each day physically ill because you can’t bear to walk into your office another day — and not because of a stressful job, but because of poorly managed relationships. Remember, you are not at work to meet your next best friend. It can end up that way but that is not the company’s purpose for hiring you. You have a talent, a skill, an ability that is critical to the success of that organization, and you are expected to deliver. This possibly requires working with all levels of management, or even just your co-workers in your department, but either way, being productive on the job requires a relationship with someone.

People are the most difficult human beings for people to work with. I like to take the high road of working relationships and present myself as a person open to options and solutions.

Even as adults, we hate to hear the word “no.” If you ask me, we hate it even more than children do; we just know how to put on our poker face. But in the workplace, making “no” your default answer because you don’t agree, or it’s never been done before, will eventually show you as a person who is incapable of identifying areas of opportunities. In addition, anyone who has ever worked with management knows what a person’s workday can be…on a daily basis. If your “no” is no for a good legal reason, this is where “teaching moments” come in. Don’t just say “no”, say no and then tell them why. For me, I’m a learner, so the reason for the rhyme always helps.

The list doesn’t stop here. In fact, it doesn’t even offer a third of Bostock habits to keep inBy theCheyenne workplace to maintain physical and mental health. In fact, books have been written. Nevertheless, hopefully you’ll find this to offer you a little more than food for thought.

Remember, healthy living is more than nutrition. It’s about mental and emotional stability, communication and appropriate relationships.

H

ow you end up looking and what you end up wearing depends on how you feel. A little bit of makeup and a nice outfit goes a long way. Applying makeup and a nice outfit gives you a

sense of security in presenting yourself to society.

Putting on the right amount of makeup and the right outfit that fits you, gives you power to present yourself with confidence. When you go out unsure of your makeup and fashion choice, most likely, you will second guest yourself all day. The article of clothing that you choose to put on or the makeup look for that day also includes the identity you choose to represent for that day.

The wrong outfit and makeup application can make you feel bad about yourself. Instead of feeling confident about yourself, you will feel unattractive and uncomfortable. Many people say your attitude is everything but I believe when your outfit and makeup is on point, that too can determine the fierce attitude you exude or do not exude for that day. When a women has on the right outfit and the right amount of makeup she feels more empowered, by feeling more like the women she wants to be.

AMBER JOHNSON “When You Look Good, You Feel Good�

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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“

We are living in a time where leaders in different fields are rising up each day and influencing the people in this world.

UNDER THE INFLUENCE

YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

Singers and rappers sell out concerts with songs that impact the way people think and act; models have influenced the way people dress; political leaders have persuaded what people should vote for; the Supreme Court has forced people how to live; and the influential list goes on. Even as a young person, I have witnessed the true power of what influence can do to someone. You may recall who influenced you to dance instinctively, cook with love, play a certain sport, choose the perfect trade, or even pray fervently. Sometimes you may think and do things because it is a tradition or custom. It is a repeating pattern that can be evident in any family or relationship.

Somewhere in your family tree lies a pattern that pulls roots to how you make your decisions. Someone who was a habitual liar, lazy worker, alcoholic, or even a bitter person may have influenced your parents, grandparents, and great grandparents. A bad pattern does not have to continue. Bad habits can break. You can also be influenced by good habits. Good habits produce good leaders. Jesus gives us the chance to be set free from chains. We have to allow His Word to influence our mind and actions.

To be a good leader, you must have an education, but most importantly you must be connected to Jesus and be under His influence. The best way to get under Jesus’ influence is by studying His Word and by practicing Biblical standards. God is real and the Bible is relevant. When you are influenced by a source that loves others; sets people free from bondage; and gives knowledge freely, you can change the world. However, people are easily detoured from the road of purpose by different distractions.

IT’S CUFFING SEASON What are you cuffed to? Everyone wants a “bae.” It is cuffing season and people are not only hooking up with individuals, but they are also cuffing onto lust, greed, anger, and hate. One of the most influential things that are fueling people in circles and not their road to destiny is false love. Influences can come from anyone you connect with and anyone that you spend time. Bad habits can spread like wild fire. A group of people with common interest can affect someone who is new in the group. The common term "you are who you hang around" is actually accurate. Be around people who are surpassing others with their integrity, K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

intelligence, and work ethic. Their influence will push you in the right direction. This season, don't be so desperate for love that you overlook the ultimate LOVER. Jesus died for you so that you can LIVE. He was the ultimate "ride or die.”

I want to inspire you to: • Cuff onto peace and not hate.

• Cuff onto joy and not depression.

• Cuff onto Jesus and not just any Joe from the club.

Whatever you're joined with can either influence you to become a purposeful leader or a promiscuous wreck. Many young people use cuffing season as a way to hide pain. Pain may be caused by not feeling pretty or worthy enough, by being bullied, or because you may be used to family members and friends being a revolving door in your life. I would like for each young person reading this article to know that you are beautiful and that you are special. True love does not last for just a season; it lasts for a lifetime. Remember where true love is found and that is with Jesus Christ. The Word says that before you were created in your mother’s womb, God knew you. Unlike “bae” God knows you. Why would you allow the enemy to take your power and use you temporarily when God knows and loves you permanently and unconditionally?

People who connect to you in life are for a lifetime or a season. People who connect for a lifetime are co-journeying with you for a reason. People who are connected for a season usually are there to teach you lessons.

You must remember that you were born for a REASON and that reason is not to be used by the enemy for a SEASON. Remember, the bad news is hurt people, hurt people. You are worthy enough to have God’s best and you deserve the best. Never allow the enemy to have you believing that something is wrong with you and that people walked out of your life because it was your fault. This is a part of the enemy’s plan to distract young people.

The good news is that God wants to connect for a lifetime. His reason is to use you for His glory and to live with you for eternity!

Perhaps you are the young person doing the cuffing, but have alternative motives. During our walk with Christ, we are to strive to be more like Him. We are to love and not use people for reasons that are not like Christ.

The enemy has a target on our generation.

Stay focused God is looking for young people who are willing to dedicate their life to Him. With God’s love, you will never have to question your relationship status and go through status changes each season.

Of course, you will have challenges during your walk with Christ and the enemy will try to attack, but when you trust God, He will bring the right person into your life at the right time.

God wants you to experience true love for a lifetime and not for a season. Until then, God wants you to focus on Him and your future. He wants you to study your Bible and make good grades. He does not want you to become distracted. Remember we have no time for distractions! Get ready, God is ready to use you! Just trust God’s timing!

HOW DO I AVOID BAD INFLUENCE OR DISTRACTIONS DURING THIS CUFFING SEASON??

From one teen to another, here’s a quick todo list.

1. Pray: Pray in privacy. When you pray, you should go into your room and close the door. Then pray to your Father who cannot be seen. Your Father can see what is done in secret, and he will reward you (Matthew 6:6). A wise man once said, “Don’t run from the quiet to fill your life with noise. Sit silently and listen to the voice of God minister to your soul.”

2. Protect: Each leader has an area in their life that needs protecting. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it (Proverbs 4:23). Before FALLING for someone else you must CATCH yourself from slipping on your own flaws, protect your heart, and work on making you better. You may lack organization, determination, discipline, etc. Strive to love yourself enough to become a better leader and friend before becoming someone’s babe.

3. Shine Powerfully: Let God’s light shine through you and influence your personality. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

You will be able to go a lot farther in life when you radiate positivity. See, when you finally give God your all, His light will shine so bright that you’ll be able to see the enemy’s pothole of failure and a bad connection a mile away. When you read the Bible, you will discover God’s text messages to you that will help you with all of your decisions in life.

In conclusion, be brave enough to be under the right influence and cuff onto Jesus. I guarantee you that when you add these 3 plans to your daily goals, you will EXCEL! 23

The Dreams Have Absolutely No Expiration Date Mr. Kyron & Mrs. Kishma George

God has blessed me with a wonderful husband but he didn’t just appear, I trusted God and spoke him into existence by standing on specific Scriptures concerning faith and marriage.

Part One

In 2012, I came to the realization that I was not content with my life. Even though God had blessed me with two wonderful sons, a beautiful home, a great job, that wasn’t enough. My life was still missing something; I desired to be married, and knew I wanted a man that was on fire for God. However, the Devil had corrupted my mind with lies, and I felt I was not worthy of such a blessing. Sadly to say I believed it, but my hopes and dreams would not die.

I came across a book called Prayer Petition by Jerry Savelle, and this book changed my thinking. My desires burned even more inside of me and a stanza in his book stood out: “If you want something from God, find Scriptures in the Bible that support what you desire and create your prayer petition…” and that’s exactly what I did.

I wrote out my prayer petition, signed it, dated it, and thanked God for my husband. I imagined my husband to the point that he became a reality to me. I thanked God for him every day, and stood on God’s specific Word concerning my desires. I asked God to bless my husband, to direct his thoughts, his finances and to order his path. This may seem funny because in the natural, he didn’t exist, but that’s just it, he did exist in the spiritual realm and I knew it!

During the waiting period, I relied on God to help me to stay focused, as there were many distractions. I stood on Isaiah 40:31, which states, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength and mount up like eagles.” Then I rested in the Lord knowing that He would provide for me my “good thing” and we would meet at the His appointed time. I prayed and asked God to help me wait for my husband and for my husband to wait for me; that he would not settle for anyone else, and that the Holy Spirit would lead him when women not ordained by God to be his wife would approach him. I prayed and I asked God that when he saw me that he would recognize me as his missing rib.

Kyron and I initially met on FB both commenting on When New Life Begins Empowerment Calls and later began poking each other approximately six months before we ever met. I never considered him because we resided in different locations. That year a job related assignment caused me to travel to where Kyron lived. While I was there he invited me to his church and I decided to accept his invitation. When we met, sparks exploded, just like fireworks. Six months from our first date, after consulting with his bishop prayerfully, Kyron asked me to be his wife. I knew in my heart this was the man of God that I had been praying for.

It’s every woman’s desire to be married; this is the way God created us.

However, having God’s chosen spouse is important. One thing I want to say is, “No, I don’t think that we are perfect, but we are perfect for each other.”

Waiting on God is the key! I am so glad that I decided to wait on God; He healed my brokenness, took all of my hurt, and replaced it with His love and affection. He honored me with my husband, a man that loves me just as Christ loves the Church.

Always remember “Dreams Have No Expiration Date!” God did it for me and He will do it for you! “The end of a thing is always better than the beginning” (Ecclesiastes 7:8).

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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The Dreams Have Absolutely No Expiration Date (continued) It comes a time in every man’s life that he desires more and this was a time in my life that I desperately desired more. I rededicated my life to the Lord and as I grew in the Word, I began feeling like something was missing. It was the other part of me, my helpmeet and it was a feeling that I just could not beat.

I was tired of all the different relationships that I had encountered.

Most women believe that it’s okay to meet a man and be intimate with him on the first date, but that’s not what men are really looking for. Men secretly desire that “one woman” whom he knows he can trust with his life; as a man surrenders his love to a woman, he has to be sure she can be trusted with his heart.

I most definitely knew that I wanted a virtuous woman of God, one who would be quick to forgive, a woman that loved the Lord and would pray for me, to build me up; and I was not willing to settle for less. As the desire grew inside of me to be married, I began thanking God for the other part of my missing rib, and that we were joined together spiritually. That was when I met her! I just know this was the woman of God that I had been dreaming about. There was an immediate attraction, and the connection between us was the Holy Spirit. I was drawn to the way she loved and worshiped God.

Part Two

My wife was not the kind of woman that I was accustomed of dating, but I could not help myself as I was being drawn more and more to her. I turned to God and asked Him, “Why her”? I somehow found myself telling her things I have never told another woman, being honest with her, playing little flirting games poking her on FB. I just could not help myself.

The desire to be married consumed me, and as I went to my bishop to receive his blessings as my spiritual head, I knew it was time to ask this woman to be my wife. My road may have been long, but the wait was well deserving; as God has blessed me with the bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh. I now know how Adam felt when he first saw Eve and Kishma is the wonderful woman that God has given me.

Men wait for your Esther, settling for less will only bring brokenness and delay in your walk with God and your growth. Be blessed!!

Moreover, I hope this story on how I met my wife inspires you to wait on God. In addition, grow spiritually first to make sure that you are whole and complete and sure of who you are in Christ.

BELIEVE IT! SEE IT! SPEAK IT! DO IT!

By Kathleen Ellis

What is the BIG dream that is hiding in your heart? You know that thing that when you think about it, it takes your breath away, gives you butterflies in your tummy, and makes you feel afraid and small and not qualified…THAT is the BIG dream I’m talking about! What is “IT”? Get a clear, vivid, detail in color and picture of it in your mind…go ahead, do it NOW! Got it? Write it down in detail and look at it! Is it scary? Is it exciting? Is it breathtaking? Is it too big for JUST you? GOOD!!!

Now, you are ready! Ready to ask God to partner with you because the BEST dreams are the ones we CAN’T do by ourselves. The BEST dreams are the ones that God breathes into us, that He knows are too big for us to accomplish on our own because He knows that when He puts His SUPER on our NATURAL, amazing things will happen! “But, how do I do that?” you ask. I’m so glad you asked! Dreams don’t just “happen”! There are some things required on your part in order to MAKE your dreams become reality, but you knew that, didn’t you!

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K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

The first thing you need to do is to PRAY! Seek God for His wisdom, His vision, and His power. Without this step, you may see a little progress here and there but you will not see the lasting, enduring progress that will cause you to pause in amazement at what God has done IN you and THROUGH you! Matthew 6:33 states, “But seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”

The second thing you need to do is BELIEVE it! Believe that your dreams are possible! Spend time in God’s Word to build your faith! “ALL things are possible with God” (Matthew 19:26).

The third thing you must do is SEE it! The more you see it, the more you will believe it! Create a vison board and look at it daily, see those things as already done! “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18). (Moreover, so do your dreams).

spoken about them…out of our own mouths no less! This ought not to be. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue and those who love it will eat its fruits” (Proverbs 18:21).

Do you feel like you are taking three steps forward and two steps back? It could be you are reversing your forward steps with your words of doubt, fear, and defeat! When you speak words contrary to the results you are striving for, you will constantly go forward and back. Change your words…Change your outcome! Speak the results you want and you will begin to see consistent forward movement toward your dreams!

The fifth thing you need to do is… to DO IT!!! Nothing works until you do! You must step out in faith and do something! Even little baby steps add up over time! “For the dream comes through much effort” (Ecclesiastes 5:3).

In conclusion, pray, believe, see, speak, do…over, and over and over, then you WILL see your dreams become your reality! DREAM BIG! xoxo~

The fourth thing you must do, and this one is critical, is to SPEAK it!

Your words are the life flow to your dreams! I cannot emphasize this enough! So many dreams are killed repeatedly by the words that are

What is the BIG dream that is hiding in your heart?

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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DRE 28

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

EAM BIG! Pastor Jermaine Scott, Sr.

I

n the book of Genesis, there is a story about a young boy named Joseph known as a dreamer. Despite his meager station in life, Joseph had big dreams. In his teenage years, he dreamt that one day he would be someone special: someone with power and authority, someone people would respect. As Joseph shared his dream and continued through life, he encountered some difficult times. Even though times got rough for Joseph, he never gave up on his dreams. I would like to encourage you reading this to be like Joseph … to dream big and in spite of difficulties, never give up on your dream.

As children, we were always encouraged to dream. As children, we had high goals, unrealistic dreams, and unimaginable aspirations about what we can achieve. During the journey from childhood to adulthood, various obstacles can and will arise. As these situations arise, they can be hindrances to what we have dreamed. The more difficult times get, the harder it becomes for us to see our dreams coming to past. Even though times are difficult, we must never give up on our dreams. Joseph dreamt about one day being in charge, and he shared his dream with his family. His parents did not believe it could happen and his brothers hated him for it. As you continue to dream, you must be careful with whom you share your dreams. Not everyone can handle the magnitude of your dreams. Their inability to see it doesn’t mean that it can’t and won’t happen. Continue to dream and progress towards your dream. Do not allow what people think or say about you or your dreams to discourage you from dreaming. Keep dreaming and keep dreaming big.

Joseph not only had to deal with people, but he also had to deal with circumstances. Joseph found himself in slavery and in prison, but was still able to dream. We should not allow our surrounding circumstances to distract us from our dreams. You may be in a bad spot, but that doesn’t mean your dreams cannot still happen. They can. Instead of letting your negative circumstances (whatever they may be), stop you from dreaming, let them push you to dream big. Let them inspire you to be, do, and achieve something different. In spite of people and situations, Joseph was able to obtain his dreams. There were plenty of opportunities for Joseph to quit, but he kept fighting for his dreams. There might be opportunities for you to quit, but don’t give up. Keep on fighting for your dreams.

As I close, just know that inside each and every one of us there lives a dreamer. We shouldn’t be afraid or ashamed to let the dreamer inside of us out. There is no such thing as dreaming too big. Your dream can and will come to pass, if you can dream it with God, hard work, and perseverance. KEEP DREAMING BIG!

I would like to encourage you reading this to be like Joseph … to dream big and in spite of difficulties, never give up on your dream.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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KENNY PUGH’S AND TAMIKO LOWRY-PUGH’S LOVE STORY Tamiko and Kenny met in 2011 while working together on a project at AT&T. Because of the company’s business code of conduct, Kenny could not pursue Tamiko at that time without jeopardizing his position as an executive. After Tamiko’s contract was up, Kenny invited her to become a member of his Chat Kafe Radio Show where she served as the Entertainment Correspondent. While working together on the show, they cultivated a healthy friendship, which still serves as a major influence for the fun they still have within their marriage today. It was also during that time that Kenny really began to take notice and a deeper interest in Tamiko. In November of 2012, Kenny and Tamiko went on their first official date to see Cirque De Soleil: Totem. This wasn’t an ordinary first date, but Kenny felt such a special feeling about Tamiko that he wanted to make a great impression. It was an experience they both enjoyed and triggered the series of subsequent dates the two shared in the months following that beautiful fall evening.

There is something special about God’s divine timing; how He brings two people together for purposeful relationships.

Tamiko and Kenny knew their relationship was special and continued the journey of sharing conversations about a potential long-term future together. When two people feel a special connection, 30

there isn’t any need to delay pursuing God’s ultimate purpose. Kenny and Tamiko continued deepening their relationship and exploring family values and morals. They also used their foundational friendship to reveal vulnerability to one another. Marriage exposes the smallest of vulnerabilities, so it was important that Kenny and Tamiko share their smallest and most intimate insecurities. A relationship without vulnerability and trust is NO relationship at all.

From the very beginning, Tamiko and Kenny both understood the dating, courtship and engagement process they wanted to follow based on their Christian beliefs. Because of Kenny’s role as a relationship advisor, he is often asked the question, “What is the difference between dating, courtship, and engagement?” Here is his response; “Dating is generally used to collect information about a person in order to make a decision. Courtship is the period where two people confirm their interest in exploring marriage compatibility. Engagement is the public acknowledgement and confirmation of two people planning to spend the rest of their lives together.”

Kenny and Tamiko used dating to cultivate their friendship and confirmed their interest in moving to a deeper relationship with one another. Once they reached a mutual agreement that they truly wanted to spend the rest of their lives together during courtship, they invested in pre-marital counseling.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

Pre-marital counseling allowed them to explore areas a number

appreciated.

of couples tend to ignore. They were able to confirm their spiritual beliefs (deeper than surface Christianity), their mutual desire for

Once pre-marital counseling allowed them to discuss the tough

kids and discuss past life issues.

topics, the path was cleared to move forward. There was no turning back and Kenny proposed to his love on Wednesday, July 2, 2014 at

During the courtship phase, mentors of both Kenny and Tamiko

the luxurious Glenn Hotel overlooking the beautiful Atlanta skyline.

continued to confirm the importance of communication. It was

This marked the official engagement. Kenny and Tamiko used the

the single area that couples married over twenty years attributed

engagement phase as a period to complete pre-marital counseling,

to their success. At one point during a brief breakup, they both

share their news with family and friends, while also giving people

admitted that communication was definitely an area they were

enough time to make travel plans for an out of state wedding.

experiencing a disconnection. One of the ways Kenny and Tamiko vowed to work on the area of communication prior to marriage

The two married on December 13, 2014 during a small Fort

was by learning and studying each other’s communication style.

Lauderdale beach ceremony. The honeymoon took place in

They had individually read The 5 Love Languages prior to dating,

beautiful Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Kenny and Tamiko

but decided to explore it again as part of their courtship. The 5

both view marriage as a covenant, meaning they will remain in

Love Languages is highly recommended for all married couples and

each other’s corner for the rest of their lives. To Kenny and Tamiko,

singles desiring marriage. When you learn to speak your spouse’s

marriage symbolizes two becoming one and living life under God’s

language, you allow that person to feel more loved, valued, and

direction while carrying out His purpose.

Prayer Movement by Prophetess Darlene Tilley We live in a microwave fast-paced world; everything must be done in a second. As a result, we have adopted the same mindset when it comes to prayer. We don’t want to take the time individually or corporately to seek the face of God through prayer.

It is the most powerful weapon we have in the Kingdom of God. Yet we don’t utilize our most powerful weapon given to us to its fullness. If only the people of God would realize just how powerful prayer can be when we really put it into action. Prayer is a privilege we have to talk with God and communicate with Him. The foundation of prayer has fallen in the church, and the church has become weak and faint. God wants the foundation of the Kingdom of God, which is prayer to be restored. We need to repent and turn from our wicked ways, lay aside every weight. We have allowed so many things and people to dilute our prayer life. Moreover, the Spirit of God is crying out for His people to get back to praying and travailing. God loves to commune with his people through prayer. Let the people of God hear what the Spirit of the Lord is saying to the church in these last K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

days, “Pray, pray, pray.” We need answers for so many things in our lives and the world cannot give us the answer. God is saying the answers you need is found in prayer. We should not only pray for ourselves, but also intercede on the behalf of others.

If the church wants to see a mighty move of God, the Glory of God, and signs and wonders, we have to put PRAYER back into its place “first” in the church.

Mark 9:29 reads, “And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting”. The world today is in a great disturbance, the earth is travailing. It is birthing fierce storms and violent earthquakes. The Kingdom of God must rise up in the power of prayer. NO PRAYER, NO POWER. Through prayer the church can turn things around, we can pray until prayer is back in schools, the violent spirits of murder and drugs and every evil spirit that is in operation in our cities is destroyed. Prayer changes things, it travels in the Spirit and reaches place that we cannot reach and go places we cannot go.

Kingdom People get ready and get in position for the Charismatic Prayer Movement of a lifetime that is about to hit the Kingdom of God. If you need deliverance, pray, if you need healing pray, whatever you are in need of, the answer will always be to pray. You do not want to miss this movement because it is time for us to PRAY, PRAY, and PRAY!! Get your prayer life back; it’s the greatest weapon that was given freely to the Kingdom of God. In addition, remember, “NO PRAYER, NO POWER.” 31

The Making of a Proverbs 31st Woman

by Jessica Mosley

At the forefront of my mind, I have always had these questions: “Can anyone really become a Proverbs 31st Woman? Can anyone really achieve the status that she has obtained and held for centuries? The skills that she possess, are they even for the 21st Century Woman?”

What makes the Proverbs 31st woman so elite, where she stands out and is a class all by herself? Come a little closer. I’ll tell you. I’ll gladly answer the question. It’s simple. Simply because of what she is made of, she stands in a class all by herself! What she is made of didn’t come all at once. It came through the process of time.

The Proverbs 31st woman is made of a magnitude of things. She is a woman of great integrity! She is a woman that her husband trusts wholly! She has purposed in her heart not to do anything that will bring her husband harm and/or embarrassment. She operates in this fashion because she knows that her husband’s heart trusts safely in her! Therefore, she has made up her mind that she will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

She is a woman that possesses great discipline. She is a woman who considers how something will affect her household before involving herself in it. She does not want anything that would be a burden or add more pressure to her home and family. She is a woman that plans.

She prepares well for the unexpected. She understands that she is the keeper of the home. Her home should be clean and comfortable to her husband and her children. She is a woman who has endured through good times, great times, bad times, and hard times. That’s why she can readily proclaim that “strength and honor are her clothing!” Life has dealt her some hard blows and she has survived! She is a woman that knows when to speak and what to speak. That is simply because she knows that in her tongue she has the law of kindness.

The Proverbs 31st woman is one that fears the Lord! She reverences Him! So, is it possible to become this woman of great purpose, this woman of great strength? Absolutely it is! Here is the key—The Proverbs 31st woman is shaped over time! Moreover, with God’s help, NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE UNTO YOU! All in all, study the chart below. With God’s HELP you can BECOME a Proverbs 31st woman over a period of TIME!!!

The 21st Century Woman Independent Has “Own” Mindset

VS.

The Proverbs 31st Woman Fears God Seeks Gods’ Will Reverences her husband

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K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

God has a Plan for Marriage Minister Richard & Evangelist Nephetina Serrano

God’s plan for marriage is to see your love grow and bear fruits. His plan for us is not merely to enjoy one another’s company or simply endure to the end. The ultimate objective is to glorify God in your relationship and to demonstrate Christ to others. In other words, God has fully equipped us to endure hardships and He promises He’ll always be there. Marriage is the foundation of the family.

It is a prehistoric human institution, a truth that existed long before was the establishment of the State. Many are conforming to the world’s view and not God’s truth concerning marriage.

They have lost sight of Bible principles and the sure foundation marriage was birth out of and built upon. There is power in agreement. In addition, the two shall become one.

Matthew 19:4-6 states, “ He answered, ‘Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh? Therefore, they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together let not man separate’ ” This plan made by God is intended to be a lifelong productive bond between a man and a woman. It is by way of the marriage vows spoken first to God, to each other, our families, and then our community to remain steadfast in unconditional love, with understanding and sexual purity. We are reminded to remain faithful while purposefully growing in our covenant marriage relationship.

Communication between a husband and a wife when you are together is a gift from God, because the greatest service you can offer one another is effectual communication. This communication is the interaction between two souls that serve God’s purpose. It is a process of one another’s thoughts and feelings, sharing the love and wisdom with each other.

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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God Has A Plan For Marriage Continued

This is the plan God intended for a man and woman.

ways of communicating with our mate. This process takes time but you must start somewhere and why not you…Just make the effort

In understanding God’s plan for marriage, one must acknowledge the

to improve how you communicate. This can often encourage your

fact that the relationship dies when the two people in it stop talking.

spouse to then see something different and may want to make more

The kind of real, honest conversations that couples have all the time

of an effort too.

at the beginning of a relationship, but which fades over time. We need to understand the fading in communication is often a natural

Minister Richard Serrano & Evangelist Nephetina L. Serrano are the

progression in many relationships when there is not a practicing of

founders of Covenant Marriages, Inc., “Together Forever, We Are One”.

communication. The key is to not let that fading turn into never having

They mentor and coach couples in crisis or in need of support during

those real conversations that are necessary in growth and progression

challenging times within their marriage. They are a support to couples

of a marriage. Consider Ephesians 4:15, “Instead, speaking the truth in

who find themselves in the real game called “LIFE”. They are reaching

love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him

beyond the walls, restoring the family, one marriage at a time. They

who is the head, that is, Christ.”

are obeying Proverbs 11:14, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety”

Here are some tips to improve communication: 1. Stop to listen

Contact Minister Richard Serrano & Evangelist Nephetina L. serrano:

2. Force yourself to hear

Address: 1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, Pa 19102

3. Be open and honest with your partner

Phone Number: Office (215) 550-1747

4. Pay attention to nonverbal signals

Email: covenantmarriagesinc@gmail.com

5. Stay focused in the here and now

Website: www.covenantmarriagesinc.org

6. Try to minimize emotion when talking about big decisions

Facebook: www.facebook.com/covenantmarriagesinc

7. Be ready to let go of an argument

JOIN THEM for “WE ARE ONE“

8. Humor and playfulness usually help

Empowerment Phone

9. Communication is more than just talking

Conference Call for Couples Every 3rd Thursday of the Month

Lastly, this is very important-We all must remember no one is a perfect

8PM–9PM Dial 712-775-7035 Code 696170#

communicator all the time. However, we have power to work at our

Playback 712-775-7039

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K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

“Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. The lion has roared — who will not fear? The Sovereign Lord has spoken — who can but prophesy?” (Amos 3:7-9 NIV) What a great description of the power of prophecy. God releases His divine plans, purposes, blueprints, and intentions for you through prophecy. Prophecy through true prophets reveals God’s mind. In other words, God will not act on the behalf of man unless it is prophesied, spoken or uttered through those whom He has authorized to speak for Him — the prophets. We now have access to the Holy Spirit who is the consultant. We do not substitute prophets for the Holy Spirit overall purpose. God is a prophetic spirit who framed the worlds into existence through the power of words (Heb. 11:3).

THE PROPHETIC ROAR: The Power of Prophecy

by Dr. Hakeem Collins

Amos 3:8 states, “The lion hath roared, who will not fear?” This entails that as the lion roars it forces the hearer to fear, so is the sovereign call of the prophet which forces him/her to prophesy (Jeremiah 20:9; Ezekiel 2:8; 1 Corinthians 9:16). Amos takes into account his own experience, as a shepherd in the wilderness of Tekoa, having often times hearing lion roars, which caused him to fear, both for himself, and the cattle he tended. “The Lord God hath spoken, who can but prophesy...?”

When the Lord speaks, it is likened to a lion’s roar and who can but not respond to the power of His voice. The lion’s roar speaks of the authority, power, and strength of God’s Word that demands a response. The prophetic function signifies “the speaking forth of the mind and counsel of God” (pro, “forth,” phemi, “to speak”).

Prophecy is to edify, to exhort, and to comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3).

help but “fear,” so when the King communicates His prophetic message whether it is blessings, His will, mind, intent, and judgment, the prophet cannot but prophesy and the hearer cannot but obey.

The prophetic is so needed in today’s society. Prophecy is God’s idea! Throughout the Bible God used prophets to convey His desire. The Bible says that we can desire spiritual gifts but especially to prophesy. We are in a season of another outpouring and wave of God’s Spirit. Joel 2:28 NLT says, “Then, after doing all those things, I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions.”

Prophet Joel spoke of a day that he saw God’s prophetic spirit poured out. It was God’s prophetic spirit released that everyone was prophesying regardless of age, race, gender, or background. God wants to restore the prophetic power, strength, and authority through true prophets today. There is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah in you ready to be awakened to ROAR that will shake, call to attention and bless your church, family, city, region, nation and generation!

CONNECT WITH PROPHET HAKEEM COLLINS Website: www. hakeemcollinsministries.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ hakeemcollinsfanpage Twitter: www.twitter.com/ hakeem_collins LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ hakeemcollins Email: info@ hakeemcollinsministries.com

When “the lion roars,” none can K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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THE PROPHETIC TREASURE CHEST We have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us (2 Corinthians 4:7).

A few days ago as I was in my fellowship time with my Heavenly Father, He begins to speak to me and says that it is time for His harvest, and after He spoke those words to me, revelation exploded in my inner man and I realized that He was speaking of the treasure that He concealed inside of us. You see when we received the infilling of Holy Spirit, far more happened and is happening than just us being able to speak in other tongues. Holy Spirit carries the Kingdom of God, so when we received the baptism of Holy Spirit we also came into a covenant with our Elohim to be an incubator of heaven treasures in the earthly realm.

So the Lord says that He is now about to harvest from His investment. So we can expect a sudden repositioning and acceleration in many areas because the Father is now about to reveal that which He used you to conceal. You will lift up your eyes in this set time says the Lord and realize that you have outgrown many things from 36

your past, and as the treasure on the inside of you manifests on the outside, you shall hear my voice speaking and saying GO! Go to your enlarged place, go to your wealthy place, and go to your place of My grace. For even the weightiness of My glory has come upon you because I have called your major to be enlarged over the minor saith the Most High Elohim.

What you are about to walk into is so endowed with the glory of the Lord that you were not just prepared for it, but it had to be prepared for you. It tarried for a season, and you had to patiently wait for it. Oh but I see the horizon of a new day coming your way. What He promised you is assigned to you, so get ready to step out of the old and into the new.

For I heard the Spirit of the Lord say that what you have been carrying inside your spiritual womb has now transitioned to the birth canal of destiny. The recent pressure and what seemed to be warfare and distractions were only labor pains that are announcing the set time. Your life will

by Apostle John F. Harris

never be the same after you give birth to this miracle. There is power in your PUSH!!

Miscarriage is impossible in this season.

The Father of Glory transferred the treasure to you, and we had to endure transition because of the glory that we were chosen to carry so therefore we now are stepping into revelation for transformation. CHANGE IS ALL AROUND YOU! Because of the magnitude of the call that is upon your life, think it not strange when YAH begins to uncover and expose every person who was secretly sent on assignment to sabotage and disrupt your blessings and your blessed place.

For every tear that has been shed, for every ounce of rejection and persecution from man, for all the days, that you have poured out everything you had to give, it seemed as though very little was poured back into you. The Father says that the day of restitution and recompense has come My sons and daughters. Only dare to believe and know that as you have sown in tears you shall surely reap in JOY! K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

e r u P A essel V

Savage a h s e k a L of Apostle y h p a r g io B

“A Pure Vessel” Biography of Apostle Lakesha Savage “Pure Vessel of Honor” is a prophetic voice assigned to the nations; it is regarded with great admiration, highly respected, esteemed by God, authorized, and endorsed by heaven to move freely in the prophetic realm. It is an original uniquely molded and strategically shaped for specialized end time assignments. It is accurate in the calculations and directions of the wind of the Spirit, prophetically inventive and certainly knows when and how to apply the supernatural wisdom of God in hard areas.

Prophet Lakesha Savage imparts a special word about the prophetic voice of God, illuminating the mind and spirit of her readers by expounding on two key areas that are suppressed in the body of Christ. First, why the prophetic voice of God cannot and will not be lost or quieted in the mouths of His prophets because it is critically needed in the church body today. Secondly, how we must not allow deprivation of the prophetic flow of God resulting in parching the prophetic streams of living waters for one’s life.

In the mind’s eye of the reader, the truths in this faith-filled biography of life of Prophetess Savage points out her undying passions to pursue after souls that the enemy has entrapped and deceived, snatching them from imminent destruction and empowering God’s people to run and do not look back. She walks in faith and utilizes the power and authority of the office of a prophet that rest upon her life to make the change in the life of the believer.

Prophet Savage of Mobile, Alabama is a powerful dynamic prophet, preacher, and teacher flowing in apostolic grace.

Indeed, she understands that there was a call on her life and recognized her prophetic gifting in operation. At a very tender age, she found herself in the midst of insurmountable traumatic circumstances beyond her control. She survived through many struggles—she suffered seeing her MOTHER suffer domestic violence when she witnessed her shot in the heart in front of her and siblings; all of her three brothers were killed/ murdered tragically by police brutality.

She is a survivor of rape, molestation, suicide, and a nervous

by the prophet. Becoming a willing participant of normal behaviors

breakdown. Prophet Savage had her first child at age 16. She suffered

of repeated church rituals and entrapped religion must cease in the

rejection, abandonment and many years battling depression from

lives of God’s people during these closing days of time. Today the

divorce, but her breakdown became her breakthrough those

prophet is needed to blow the trumpet in Zion; sound the alarm on

seasons of hardship and troubles. She sensed a powerful yearning

God’s holy hill. A prophet is needed to maintain order and set the

of Jesus Christ call upon her life. Prophet Savage accepted His

atmosphere befitting for the SUPERNATURAL!! The countenance

invitation to be her Lord and personal Savior in the year 1999.

of the prophet, the prophet’s mantle and the two-edge sword of the Spirit in the mouth of the prophet will shift out and ban any

Prophet Savage has nothing to hide and welcomes any given

defiant and rebellious spirit that makes entry and settles itself in

opportunity to minister. She makes it her business to share her

regional territories. The prophet, upon entry of a city or a region

personal testimony of deliverance from what supposed to have

shifts the atmosphere fashioning that area to become well-suited

killed her but now it may help somebody who may be suffering

and conducive to breeding grounds for supernatural miracles,

that same or similar dilemma in life. Her life challenges gives her a

signs, and wonders.”

powerful voice to reach what’s broken to revive , resuscitate, reignite and breathe the breath of God in any situation , and call life into

Prophet Salvage currently has a powerful Deliverance Ministry and

dead and dry bones. She is only able to complete the assignments

flows heavily in the prophetic under apostolic grace. Her passion

upon her life through prayer and fasting and staying grounded in

for Deliverance Ministry is to empower women, men and our youth

God’s Holy Word yielded to the Holy Spirit.

to survive the onslaughts of Satan. Additionally for them to be healed, delivered and set free from chains and yokes of bondages;

Prophet Savage grew in grace and gleaned much spiritual

the deep wounds, and sinful soul-ties that easily attach, harass, and

knowledge from her mentors, under the tutelage and leadership

overwhelms many. Without a shadow of a doubt in mind, chains

of Apostle Aaron G. Mc Kinnis and Elect Lady Ann Mc Kinnis of,

will have no power over you, deep spiritual wounds will be healed,

Fire on the Mount Church Ministries. There she served faithfully for

yokes will be broken, and bandages to sin will be eradicated.

fourteen years under Apostolic covering of her natural and spiritual father Apostle Aaron G. Mc Kinnis. Prophet Savage also served under mentorship of the late Apostle Wanda Cooper Allen of Voices of Triumph International Ministries, Birmingham, Alabama.

Understanding that her call to the prophetic is genuinely needed today, Prophet Salvage humbly answered the prophetic mandate on her life. Full of the purpose of God and the passion to see souls saved she has a highly, unique sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. The anointing upon her life is indeed peculiar with an intense anointing in deliverance. Because God is able to trust Prophet Salvage with

Many will behold and see the “NEW GLORY” of God, for with JESUS CHRIST ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE.

this powerful concentrated anointing, He thrusts countless doors

As an unapologetic Ambassador survivor for Christ and proof

open across the country to preach to the poor in spirit, teach and

producer, Savage’s heart desire is to equip and empower leaders in

declare the revelatory Word of the Lord to all who hunger and thirst

the Holy Ghost for Kingdom work; so that they may produce healthy

after His righteousness. This prophetic flow is executed with such

and productive vessels of honor to operate in apostolic grace with

richness and fervency, for she is in demand by God for such a time

authority and power of Holy Spirit. Prophet Savage states, “I want to

as this.

see leaders walk in the dimension of DOMINION declaring a thing in the NOW with manifestations of signs, miracles, and wonders! I

Prophet Savage explained, “The stifling of the voice of God, quenching of the prophetic fires and flow of God must be halted

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am driven towards educating and equipping God’s people. I want to see many operate in their God given purpose. “

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

Dr. Tamarrah Tarver’s Biography Tamarrah was engaged to a man that she thought was “the one.” After he returned from Iraq, he became physically and verbally abusive. After occurred an incident in which he put a gun to her head, she knew then that it was time to leave that toxic relationship. Years passed and Tamarrah devoted herself into her educational studies and into ministry.

Then she met a young man and after a year of courting and another year of engagement, Tamarrah got married.

They seemed like the quintessential couple. However, after a few years of marriage, Tamarrah found out that her husband had been having homosexual adulterous affairs.

She was devastated. She withdrew, stopped eating, lost an enormous amount of weight, and became depressed.

Subsequently, she was served divorce papers. Two weeks before the final divorce hearing, Tamarrah was laid off from her secular job. It was synonymous to a JOB experience.

Polished Gem! Behind the petite frame, bright smile, and pristine attire, is a woman who has fought a plethora of battles. She has surmounted the most tumultuous trials that life could possibly present. In the words of the great author, Langston Hughes, “Life for her aint been no crystal stair.”

Tamarrah’s father committed suicide when she was the tender age of four and date raped at the age of sixteen. Subsequent to the rape, Tamarrah began to act out by indulging in promiscuity and clubbing.

By the time she was nineteen years old, she knew what it was to live a life of debauchery. One night after partying hard core, Tamarrah alone in the bathroom felt empty, devoid of purpose, and unloved.

It was at that point that she cried out to the Lord. She did not know any Scriptures, but she knew how to call on the name of Jesus. It was in the bathroom fifteen years ago, that Tamarrah received her salvation. Her walk with the Lord has not been a bed of roses, yet she has learned to fight the good fight of faith.

Tamarrah felt like she had been tried in the fire. Friends walked away during this trial and she did not have close relatives nearby. In a sense, she had to walk through this trial alone. However, it was in the midst of the fire where she found a greater appreciation for God. Tamarrah’s prayer life and time of study in the Word of God intensified. Although in the natural, things did not seem to be going in her favor, Tamarrah remained faithful in her walk with the Lord. She stood on the Scripture that expresses, “And when he has tried me, I shall come forth as pure gold.” Through the stages of grief and healing process, Tamarrah journal her thoughts, continued facilitating her prophetic prayer calls, and devoted time into her business, Pretty Girl World LLC. Tamarrah possesses a Master’s and Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Florida A&M University and a PhD from Northwestern Theological Seminary. She is the author of Pretty Girls Cook, the producer of the documentary Behind the Veil of Closed Doors and the workout DVD Pretty Girls Workout.

Currently, Tamarrah is hosting a 7 City Pretty Girl Experience Tour. These conferences will focus on empowering, inspiring, and encouraging women to be their best selves.

For more information, visit her at www.prettygirlworld.com.

From Prostitution to Pulpits

by Evangelist Tanika Bryant

I was a homeless runaway teen on the streets of San Francisco off and on since the age of thirteen. By fifteen, I sold my first crack rock and was trying to get into the game full throttle through some of the older dope dealers I knew on the block. One in particular caught my eye because he was respected and feared on the streets. He was fresh out of prison and was a boxer so everybody knew he was a beast with his hands. He is whom I wanted to rock with, a real gangster, a real soldier, even though he was ten years my senior. We became close and began to develop a friendship. He was making sure that I ate everyday so I no longer had to steal food from the grocery store to curb the hunger pains. He made sure I had a place to sleep, even if it was in his mother’s car on the beach, it was better than sleeping at the bus station freezing cold with the bums, watching them inject heroin in their veins and nod off into a zombie state of unconsciousness.

I was on the block had not heard from him to make sure I was imperative that at our usual spot, phones where he to the spot, I noticed from the cleaners. that we would talk back here in 1 hour,” came like he said and that he had been with back, we are going tell you to,” he said. I drove. When we came seriousness on his face. see and I could tell he and I did.

one day and I paged him on his pager because I him in a few days. I needed his security, I needed ate and slept somewhere safe every night, so it I got him back to me. He told me to meet him which was a bus stop in the hood by the pay would often make his drops. When he arrived that he had a woman’s suit in his car fresh I inquired about this and he just told me later. “Go get something to eat and meet me he instructed. When the hour had past he picked me up. The suit was gone so I knew whoever “she” was. “Put your seat all the way for a little drive and don’t put it up until I did as told, he passed me the blunt, and we to a stop, I could see that he had a look of He looked around at whatever I couldn’t was contemplating. “Sit up,” he told me,

As I looked around I saw that we were in another part of town I had never been to before, it was jumping! There was so much action just like in the movies! There were limousines driving around, all kinds of luxury cars in traffic. There were men on the left side of the streets dressed in Versace and Armani and popping bottles of Dom Pérignon. There were beautiful supermodels jumping in and out of the limousines, and going into the clubs accompanied by these millionaires. I was just taking in the scene excited because I had never been to a club before and surely he was about to get me in and show me how the millionaires lived! As I sat there taking in the scene and people watching, he began to unfold the truth of what it was that I was looking at. Those beautiful supermodels dressed in designer clothes were not supermodels but they were escorts. Those millionaires in the exotic cars were not their husbands and boyfriends but they were clients. Those men on the left side of the street popping bottles of Dom in their Versace and Armani suits were in fact pimps.

I have been kidnapped, raped, abused, knocked out, beaten, robbed, pistol-whipped and that just scrapes the surface. I have had many friends to be murdered, and make the headlines in the local paper all across the country but God spared my life. By the time, I was sixteen I was incarcerated facing 32 years and locked up for charges ranging from pimping to kidnapping to attempted murder, but God spared my life. I made a covenant with God that if He would not only save me but also allow me to be totally free, I would run for Him. He kept His part of the agreement so here I am, running. I want the world to know that there is no past too filthy. There is no pain too deep.

There is no mistake too great that our Holy God will not stretch out His pure hand of redemption, take a hold of our black stained soul, dip it in the red purifying blood of Jesus Christ, and bring us back up from the pit whole and white as snow. All we have to do is accept Him. I have been commissioned by the Lord to bring the Good News to the poor, bring revival to the nations, and set the captives free.

You can contact Evangelist Tanika Bryant at TCBryant.com.

Transition is part of life; we all go through different stages of transitions in our life. Going from 2014 into 2015, many of my friends that were single including myself for a long time are now married. I never thought that this would be happening so soon in my life.

Yes, I prayed for it, and yes, I prepared myself as well for this moment. Now I am here Glory to God! The lights and cameras are gone, honeymoon is over, and the family has left you. Reality kicks in, you look around, and it is just your husband, you and child (ren). Everything you ever dreamed of GOD has answered your prayers. He has equipped you for such a time as this, now it is time to apply all that you were taught. Sounds like a lot of pressure, well it can become overwhelming.

Here are some of the many questions that may be running through your minds. How can two become one and we are so different?

How can I be that “virtuous woman” that I constantly read about and ask God to help me become? However, God has equipped you for your husband. God didn’t say you must be perfect, He said keep Him in the middle of your marriage and He will help you both on this journey.

You must remember you are not single anymore which means you must change your I’s to ours. Allow your husband to take his proper role in your life and don’t fight him. Will you slip? Yes, you will. Many of you have been single for quite some time, some have been in failed relationships, or rejected from love ones but remember you must leave your old baggage outside your marriage. I pray that was all dealt with before you said, “I do.”

Let’s get this clear there is no marriage that is perfect, we all have issues. Therefore, I hope that took some pressure off some of you who thought your marriage should be perfect.

We all have different opinions and see things differently.

Ladies not because he doesn’t pray like you, or worship like you that means he doesn’t love God. No matter how long you have been friends when you get married, it is totally different. He’s no longer just a friend, he is your husband and your head. That’s REALITY, you gave him the keys to your life and entrusted him to lead your household, so let him.

There may be children involved and that’s another transition within your marriage. Your children are no longer second to God. God is first then your husband /wife then your children. Many people struggle with this order especially if you have an integrated family. This is the way God Intended marriage to be no exceptions.

Six months has passed since we both said our I do’s. We have both experienced different challenges in our marriage, as I am sure you all have. One of my challenges that I faced in my marriage is that my husband wants me at home; this was difficult for me because I was used to handling everything. I had to make that transition as many of you are experiencing now. I am home now and working my own business. We all have to make decisions that we may not like at first but that is all part of being married and becoming one.

Transition from a Single Mother to Wife and Mother

by Simra Grant Dalmida

I will leave you with this: always keep God in the middle of your marriage, keep communicating, love on each, make it always excited, and attend marriage classes. You don’t know everything and you need to be around other healthy couples. Not all conflict is bad so don’t avoid healthy conflict. Marriage is a lot of work but it is such a rewarding and beautiful thing. To my “single” sisters God has not forgotten about you! Remember marriage is not about one day; it’s a life time commitment! Please wait on God, let Him have His way with you and before long you will be wed too.

God bless all of you!

GAIN FROM THE PAIN Your pain is understandable. You are living in the shadow of festering tension. You are beset with a constellation of inhospitable thoughts, and you are engaged in an internal and emotionally vigorous combat with those who inflicted hurt upon you. Your tendency to fight tooth and nail in a bid to assuage your bruised ego has done nothing but place considerable pain on the path of an otherwise bright outlook on life.

Possibly, this is the aftermath of being consumed by negative emotions that resulted from engaging in arguments, and hostile, hearsay conversations with mischievous and mercurial people who you could very well have done without. What is more, the betrayal of your valuable trust by friends has sent you on an emotional roller coaster. Sadly, all that has happened is that you have allowed the enemy to profane the holy essence of your existence. The time has come for you to let go of those past associations of bondage, and to unburden yourself of the heavy yoke of the vexation of spirit, pride, and covetousness.

With every fiber of your being, press toward the positive evolution of your mind by a systematic desensitization of yourself to the pains of these encounters. Despite all our efforts, the future appears to be left at the mercy of a daily influx of problems. Your best option, however, is to convert this mountain of painful moments into an instrument of grace that understands that there is no difficulty beyond God’s competence to handle.

Today, insist on applying the words of the Living God to your seemingly — never ending cycle of human hurt and emotions. Decide to let every cell in your body become invigorated with a Divine love in which the combination of honor, courage, and commitment is your DNA, rendering you worthy of His love, grace, and protection.

Stop allowing the unfair judgment of others to dictate how you will live. Simply refuse to allow your own hurt and attitudes get in the way of what God is doing in your life. No one is immune to this trickery of the enemy, for, after all, he is a liar, and has been so since the beginning of creation. Recognize today that you are engaged in a spiritual warfare with forces that seek to derail you, a child of God. Recognize, also, that if you allow it, the deception of the enemy can easily turn into a stronghold that will leave you spiritually helpless. You have within you the resident power with which to engage these strongholds in an epic battle. You must not allow the enemy to circumvent the work of God in your life. You must not allow the enemy to deceive and disorient you.

By Tamie Collins Markee

present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” Shed your emotional baggage of hurt and disappointment. All that happened is that Satan has invaded your rose garden. Allow the rivers of living waters of love flow through this rose garden. It is time to declare your testimony by standing firmly on the scriptural text in Isaiah 59:1, “Behold the Lord’s hand is not shorten, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear.”

Allow the Scriptures to permeate your mind, heart, and spirit. Transform, educate, and inspire the world by your testimony. This will instill in confidence in your ability to grow, and to attract wisdom. Refuse to lose sight of just how temporal and how fleeting life itself really is.

In its most sacred context, the Bible gives us ample instructions with which to tackle a hurting world, especially with regard to establishing Jesus Christ as the Cornerstone of our existence. Gainfully employ your time in improving yourself by learning from your hurtful experiences.

Clear up your emotional space by keeping no records of wrong. Permit yourself to cry your last tear. Thoughts of past, hurtful experiences merely establish a stronghold, or fortress, for confusion that will take you captive, and hold you prisoner. These fortresses are designed by the enemy to negate the greatness of Christ in you. Be well prepared for the arduous task ahead of you.

As an act of honor, liberate and strengthen your mind muscles by developing the Royalty mindset. This is of paramount importance for your freedom of mind, and for the evolution of your success mindset.

You have a date with destiny, and the process has begun, ever so slowly. Renew yourself by declaring that you are created in the image of God. His royal blood flows through your veins. Speak to the heart, and let your legacy of love abide. Your recurring hurt patterns, if left unchecked, will become dominant in your mind, and may even grow to make you fear the future. Please remember that God is infallible.

Proclaim thus to your past hurts, and feelings of bondage: Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Your day of freedom is here at last. Decidedly learn how to hold every negative thought in captivity. Free yourself right now from hurt and suffering! Rise from the ashes, even as God commands you to unfold and blossom!

It is understandable that, your reputation having been damaged by another, the anxiety you suffer, the hurt and pain will necessarily take time to heal. You will have to take solace in Romans Chapter 7, which declares your emancipation proclamation in verse 15, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do.” (NIV) Engage yourself in the cleaning up of catharsis, and allow the fragrance of peace and love to engulf you. Seek your passion in life. This will help you to heal from the hurtful wounds, and obliterate the hidden powers of darkness that seek to enslave you as Pharaoh did of old. Remember the words of Psalm 46:1-2, “God is our refuge and strength, a very 42

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

PROPHETIC HABITATION

by Dr. Naim Collins

a culture for the prophetic to inhabit. In the context of 1 Samuel 19:20-24, Saul sends messengers three times to capture David in order to kill him but David fled seeking Samuel at Ramah while residing in a place called Naioth. Saul supernaturally transformed into another man whenever he came in the presence, habitation, and company of prophets. The transformative nature of the Holy Spirit descended upon King Saul, which empowered him to prophesy like the prophets.

Naioth means “habitations” or “dwelling places.” Naioth was not just your usual town in Ramah but it became a “prophetic habitation.”

Naioth was a prophetic community and school where Samuel would train prophets in worship, prayer and in the prophetic.

Unfortunately, today prophets and those with prophetic gifting do not have a place in local assemblies to grow, cultivate, and mature in their ministry gift.

“…And it will happen, when you have come there to the city, that you will meet a COMPANY OF PROPHETS coming down from the high place…Then the Spirit of the LORD will come upon you, and you will prophesy with them, and be TURNED into another man” (1 Samuel 10:56).

“And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the COMPANY OF THE PROPHETS prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied. And when it was told Saul, he sent other messengers, and they prophesied likewise. And Saul sent messengers again, the third time, and they prophesied also…And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on, and PROPHESIED, until he came to Naioth in Ramah” (1 Samuel 19:20-23).

We are in such crucial times where in many churches and cultures, modern-day prophets and the prophetic are a rarity and in some instances obsolete. Many are not aware of the advantages of developing

Prophets and prophetic people must have a place conducive for them to operate, dwell, and reproduce after themselves. A place of prophetic training, activation, and development for prophets is a place of “prophetic habitation.” “Prophetic habitation” is also, where the voice of the Lord is heard and spoken. This is most commonly known as a “prophetic culture.” A culture is a place of tillage, cultivation and the act of development by education and training. It is defined as a lifestyle, society, and civilization. The prophetic spirit is transferable. The prophetic anointing that was residual in Naioth for instance was literally airborne in spiritual essence that it was contagious that caused people who never prophesied before to become prophetic.

When you are in the company of prophets who carry a tangible anointing on their lives, it inadvertently rubs off on you. Leaders must develop a prophetic culture in their churches, cities, regions, and nations in order to see transformation. God desires to raise up places of “prophetic habitations” through prophetic leadership. If you cannot find a Naioth, then I dare you to build a prophetic habitation, for the PROPHETS (eagles) can come!

CONNECT WITH PROPHET NAIM COLLINS Website: www.naimcollinsministries.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/naimcollinsfanpage Twitter: www.twitter.com/naimcollins Email: info@naimcollinsministries.com

K.I.S.H. Magazine | Fall/Winter 2015

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