Express Me, Express You, Embrace We
Cover Story 13 Married To Ministry with Pastor LaToya Gatlin
Featured Woman, Art, Artist & Inspiration 7 The with Lykecia Williams 20 Summer Favorites with Chef Chantea
28 CEO Life ~ Ladies In Hats with Nova Mines
32 Dream Encounters
with Author Alisa Wimbley
Voices of LASUMXP & Guests 3
Editor’s Heart Beat
6
Don’t Settle
Prophet Monique Strong
Lady VDub
21
Daughters of Zion, Arise
24
Nailz GlamHer
25
Navigating The 3 Stages of Wealth
33
A Lady In Waiting
Apostle Denise Chase
Shana Sanders
L. Renee Richardson Prophet Monique
To share your story or advertise with us, send an email to: mzmoministry@gmail.com
What a ride! If you read my blogs, newsletter and/or previous issues of LASUMXP, you have an idea of what I mean by that. I say an idea only because with me everything has variations. My tones, writings, posts, encounters, exchanges and everyday life changes constantly, it seems. I've shared on some platform or the other, that I recently completed the 40 Day Soul Fast, again by Dr. Cindy Trimm. I really felt as though I needed to. I was so easily irritated, annoyed and frustrated. In my mind, I had worked so hard for this not to be so. Or so I thought. There were questions asked, that released a ripple effect of questions within me. While the fast was great, I didn't fully commit to the entire process as I should have. I really needed time away from all outside influences and time to simply do some self-reflecting. There were days that I missed, in the hustle and bustle of the demands of my life. So I doubled and tripled up on my reading a many of times, throughout the fast. Although I didn't do all that I could have done, the fast started revealing a lot. This past week and weekend, I attended MegaFest for the very first time. MegaFest is truly a festival filled with so much to partake of. It was too mega for me. I wanted to take in as much as I could and with so many people in attendance, you needed to be in line early. This left little time to process all of what you shared. I even missed a couple of sessions that I really wanted to attend. But rest assured, I truly managed to get what I needed. Yet, my analytical brain power talked me out of a couple of things I could have also benefited from. One major thing that God pointed out was the fullness of my heart. You know, what He actually views, monitors and weighs our right-ness according to. This was not a pretty picture at all. It was actually very scary for me. Things were much worse than I thought and the glimpse of where I was headed, if I didn't make immediate and drastic changes, was disgusting. My responses to certain things and people‌Not good! But it didn't even feel like me, at all. This chic was borderline evil and I can't stand her at all. It was like watching a movie entitled, "Nicety Nicky MUST DIE and why", starring me. I was ready to snatch myself and slap fire from me. So this morning, I did us all a favor and destroyed her. Is it that easy? No! There is a process to make sure she can never ever be put back together again. I mean we have to put all of the king's horses and all of the king's men, out of business concerning her. I say we because maybe there is work you need to do as well. I had to write God a letter. My question was how do you remove a mask that you don't even know you're wearing? I can see how situations added to this Teflon coating, I started wearing. But I couldn't pinpoint where it started. I know I need healing, but I must be honest in saying I don't know how much I need healing from. I blame nobody at all. It is just where I ended up. I'm not sure if the details of how even matter at this point. My focus is set on not permanently becoming who I saw this weekend. I know my tongue was swift and sharp, but I never knew my heart to be as hard as it appeared this weekend. The glimpse of who I was becoming and the announcement of its cost, was way too much for me. I didn't just wake up, declare myself healed and new and it was so. I didn't just wake up broken either. It took time, encounters, disregard, abuse, neglect, denial, partial and no forgiveness over time to get me on this path. It will take love, patience with myself and the peace of God to heal and restore me. Am I an evil, vile, horrible or malicious person? No. But when life encounters continuously disappoint us and crush our spirits and we never properly tend to our wounds, they lead to bitterness, envy, anger, hatred and evil dark paths. Sometimes you don't know, until your behavior, silence or isolation begins to stink so bad, that those simply passing by
can pick up on the stench and point it out. In a world full of mimics, borrowed paths, branding demands, and imitation, being authentic becomes challenging and can also be frustrating. It is important that you truly get to know yourself. Knowing yourself doesn't simply mean, knowing your purpose. What feeds you? Challenges you? What aches you, breaks you and is robbing you? Do you have unresolved issues? So what you don't think about it anymore. Is it still silently eating away at the best parts of you? Is it secretly corroding your heart? Are you pushing forward through the pain? Do you know stopping to take the time to address your wounds and heal your heart, does not mean the same as quitting or giving up? Do you know that it is ok to do so? Not only is it ok, but it is wisdom! Through the years I have still been trying to pour out and encourage others to live their best life. More times than not, I did so while suffering in my own struggles and weights of life, failing to live my best life. I would dare not, mention the things that plagued my heart, those used in the scheme to destroy me and discredit me, by freezing my heart slowly. I am the owner of my choices and decisions. I stand solo in the line of those responsible for my actions. During these painful times, I did more damage to my ministry than I did well. Were some blessed by what I shared? Per their testimonies, yes they were. But I also see the negative impact my wounded phase did as well. If I had only taken some time to process what I went through, how I felt about it and allowed God to walk me through my healing and then return to my assignment, well‌ So here we are and I am taking that time now. I refuse to stay on the path I have been traveling. It doesn't lead to anything good. I'm going to take this time to rediscover me! I love the woman God showed me and she deserves to live and not die full of her purpose. I'm going to live a life poured out, unafraid to share. So enjoy this issue of LASUMXP. My sisters, above all, get to truly know YOU. It is perfectly ok to still be sweet in a cold bitter world. We can't let the world and life change the content of our character, nor harden our hearts. Be sweet, with a touch of sass and a whole lot love and class. I love you all on purpose. Cover me in prayer and I will do the same for you. xoxo Xoxo Keep IT Kingdom!
Monique Strong LASUMXP Editor In Chief
info@LASUM.org
www.moniquestrong.org
The Most
COMMON way people
GIVE UP their
POW R is by
THINKING THEY DON’T HAVE ANY Alice Walker
Don’t Settle By Lady VDub
any times, when things do not fall into place, we tend to place ourselves in a state of disarray. When it is all said and done, truthfully speaking… all the T’s may not be crossed and the I’s may not be dotted. Our lives can sometimes be more complex and rigged, than smooth and easy as we tend to portray. The result of such actions, tend to lead us into a world of misguided and sometimes falsehoods that cause one to feel as though they have failed. In a world where it is “expected” that one be perfect in all aspects of life, can be a mixture of continual feelings of failure or… of continual striving to be better. In either situation, the result is what you make of it! When you feel as though you have failed in a task, a job, a maternal decision, homework, dating, etc. it consumes you and those thoughts tend to consume your very fiber. Instead of giving in to those feelings, why settle? In settling, you become more downtrodden, or worse, a failure by your own actions! Yet when you recognize the beginning of a pattern of things not falling into place, it is then that you “should” immediately assess the situation, find out why the T’s are not crossed and the I’s are not dotted. If an answer or solution is not readily available, then one must begin the process of dissection. When dissection takes place, each piece is examined and analyzed to pinpoint the origin of what needs immediate attention. The same is true as it relates to our everyday lives. Are you doing what makes you feel like a failure or are you striving to ensure your actions cause you to become better? It has been said, “for every action, there is a reaction.” This phrase is true as it relates to many things; actions can be related to one’s movement, alertness, functionality, etc. of said action. This is vital in reinforcing pursuits of happiness. We must allow the inner strength, we all have, to come to the forefront and overtake the inner thoughts of failure. Are you spiritually connected? Whether you are or not, is your life connected to a positive force that helps you to become better than who or what you are presently? If not, why not tap into that unborn gift, allow it to mature, then… birth it into the universe for all to see and enjoy!! Don’t allow your God-given gift to be aborted. Nurture it, tend to it, make all the necessary steps to ensure it grows; then be ready to share that gift with others, so that you may reap what you have sown. When it’s all said and done, don’t wallow in what could have been, should have been or would have been. Go after what is YOURS! Even if you must dot your I’s again, cross your T’s again or start over again, don’t give in. Dissect the problem, find a solution and make whatever the problem is… a SOLUTION. Be the best YOU can be, even if it means going through blood, sweat, and tears. The end result will be worth it. In the words of the gospel duo “Mary Mary” “go get it, go get it, go get it – go get your blessings; it’s your time – GO GET IT!!
The Woman, The Art, The Artist and The Inspiration By Lykecia Williams
Music has always been a huge part of my life. I can remember the days as a little girl playing piano with my older brothers, attending quartet concerts with my family and soaking in all the music at church events. Coming from a musical family one can’t help but be mesmerized and impacted by music. I enjoyed singing in the angelic, youth and adult choirs at my church. I was intrigued by music at a very young age. I can remember my first gospel concert, it was Fred Hammond and I was 9 years old. It was at that moment I knew what I wanted to pursue in my life. I love music so much that at the age of 13, I wrote my first song. I found writing to be fun and exciting. I spent that entire summer writing songs. To further my love of music I composed my first song at the age of 19 while attending Elmhurst College. During my tenure at EC, I sang in the women’s chorus, took classical voice and learned about all the many aspects of music. A lot of the fundamentals were new to me because I never dissected a musical composition in my life. I just wanted to sing but a colleague advised me that there is more to music than just singing. Learning about music was difficult at first and very challenging but I refused to give up. I was raised to never quit when things get tough but to endure and overcome. So three years later I received my BM in Music Business. I was so happy to graduate that I leaped across the stage instead of walking across it. I left with more knowledge about music than when I first started. I was so excited about obtaining my degree. I was on cloud nine and ready to pursue my dreams. While having a conversation with a friend, they discouraged me by saying what can you do with that degree? They had me second guessing myself and my career choice. I filled out applications, kept recording in the studio and their words still echoed in the back of my mind. When I came to more roadblocks I became even more discouraged. I continued pursuing my dreams but the passion I once had began to fade away. In 2012, I was scrolling through social media and saw that Percy Bady wanted to mentor some songwriters. I applied and was selected along with a small group of peers. The mentorship program sparked my passion again and I was more encouraged and determined than ever to complete what I started. I buckled down and started recording in the studio again. It was a lengthy process but I loved every minute of it. I had all this material but I was not sharing it with anyone. What purpose was that serving? Part of me was nervous that people would not receive it but in 2015 I erased my fear and released my first single. There were so many people giving me positive feedback that I was overwhelmed. What is the point of having a gift if you don’t share it? The very next year, I released my EP. I was proud to have finally made this accomplishment. Everything from that point on began to fall right in place. After the EP release, I decided to start my own independent record label: Crazy Praizer Records. A dream I’ve had for many years. It is no coincidence that the acronym is CPR because God breathed life into me. I’m writing again, working on new music and excited about what God is doing in my life. Anything is possible when you put your trust in God. For bookings email: crazypraizerrecords@yahoo.com
ONE WOMAN
CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE BUT TOGETHER
WE CAN
ROCK THE
WORLD
With Pastor LaToya Gatlin
hen I hear the topic “Married to Ministry”, I can only think about the idea of real marriage/union, and for a moment, and oddly enough, it triggers thoughts of the time that I wasn’t married. Have you dated someone for a long time, or even lived with your “boyfriend” or participated in shacking with your bae (Yesss – don’t worry this is a non-judgmental article)? Even though this was your long-time boyfriend, and everyone knew of the two of you – invited you to weddings and events “...as boyfriend/ as a “couple” – as boyfriend/girlfriend there still remains some unendorsed privileges girlfriend there still of a married couple. If you can grasp that concept, then you will clearly understand my remains some feelings of ministry and my state of extreme gratitude for the designation in which God unendorsed privileges has called me. You see, I was what the hood likes to call a “church girl”. The girl of a married couple” living in the housing projects, who has to leave the park early, to get ready for church on a Thursday or Friday night in the summer. The one who cannot attend your “hippety-hop” birthday party where the devil’s music was going to be played. Yes, that was me! I’ve been in church all of my life and known of God, His son Jesus, all my life (even called upon Him in many times of trouble). However, the honest truth is something changed when I met and married my husband. AND IT WAS GREAT! Before I tell you about my husband, let me share that I in addition to being labeled the church girl – I was also the “good girl”. I traveled the world at a young age by way of the sport of Double Dutch. I went to college at the age of 16 and life was turning out pretty good for a little girl from the housing projects, in Brownsville Brooklyn. Of course, the good girl image had a lot to do with my upbringing and me trying to do that right thing. But along the way (everybody says “ALONG THE WAY”), everything I did wasn’t so good! I dated “bad boys” and drug dealers – all the while still going to church. I held positions in the church as Assistant Youth Leader, which lead to Youth Leader, and other roles that I was able to maintain because of my “image’. I gave my life to Christ many times, but I would often backslide, and go back to the world I knew and loved so much – But I always maintained, yup, you got it…. my GOOD CHURCH GIRL IMAGE. At the age of 27, I got married. My husband at the time’s mother was a pianist at a Presbyterian church, and as a reformed weed smoking bad boy, his mom was so pleased to know he had chosen a good church girl. Less than a year later, we had a beautiful baby boy, and we all attended my home church just like the perfect little family. Can you guess? Correct again - that didn’t last long. Before my 30th birthday we were separated, and I was once again back to the world I loved – now partying hard and hanging with a crowd I always knew as a child but never really hung out with because, I just had another agenda when I was younger, which clearly seemed to be to maintain this good church girl image. Fast forward to age 34 – I was done with the partying and dating various men, regardless of the fine dining and lavish gifts. I was done. I wanted a husband. I began to change my style in choosing men, and sort of clean up my act. I dated a lot, all the while still “going” to church. Somewhere between 34-35, I met a really nice guy, who could give me everything the fast-money guys could give me and more; he didn’t have any children, was very loving, kind and sweet, and would give me the world. I was finally happy again. At least for a little while. While dating my good guy, I decided to go back to church as I had been on sort of on a hiatus for a little while (yall know how us “church folk” like to take extended stay away from church vacations). One particular Sunday, I went to church from my boyfriend’s house, because of course, I had spent the night with him –I decided to re-dedicate my life to Christ once and for all. Although I had conversations with my boyfriend about my religious upbringing, I also knew that he was sort of agnostic about the whole idea of church. I saw him that same evening and I shared with him that I had re-dedicated my life and explained what that would mean for our relationship. Loving me as he did, he didn’t take issue with no longer being able to be intimate with me – he just wanted to stay together. I agreed – although I knew that I couldn’t do it. Not too long after my re-commitment, I told him that God had something else for him, and most certainly something else for me. So that put me back in a single, desirous of husband status as a saved woman with standards of Holiness in New York City. Talk about slim pickings. So that journey began. I met the “my
grandmother is a preacher” guy ………….the “I grew up in church” guy……..the “my whole family is into church” guy…….the “I'm a minister, but David wasn’t perfect so we can sleep together” guy …….like it was just a lost cause. I then realized that God just wanted ME and He waited patiently for me until He had enough waiting. I began to read my word, pray, and fast regularly. I spent a lot of time with other saved women who I grew up with in church – even sort of devised an informal young and saved crew, where we went out to dinner, spent time at one another’s home for girls nights, and was even preparing to plan single & saved girl trips and getaways. I had really decided that I wasn’t going to put another piece of energy into trying to make my Boaz but I would embrace my single, saved & serving God life. Then it happened! Now that I was completely reinstated and devoted not only to Christ but as a member of my church – I didn’t miss special services, weeknight services, rehearsals, – NOTHING! I was there! So my Pastor decided to bring in a Revivalist, who apparently had been to my church many times, but in my almost 30 years as a member I had never been there the same times he was there (COINCIDENCE or DIVINE?). Normally when there is a revival, I would prematurely choose which nights I was attending and purposefully stay home on the other nights (it’s not just me …you do it too. Well stop it & be obedient to your leader and show up!). Well, this preacher was remarkable and I returned every night to hear from the Lord. This was October of 2013. By July 2014, we were married. And on July 5, 2015, on our very first wedding anniversary The Kingdom Life Inc. ministry opened its doors. Married to the Ministry is truly my life in a few words! You might say that was a long introduction to get here – and perhaps it was, but it was really only the beginning. When my husband came to me one night and asked my opinion about going out on our own, I was at first disheartened because my church was my church….my Pastor was my Pastor…….my youth …etc. Then I asked, “What did God say?”. Shortly after that conversation, my husband and I prayed and asked God to let us know his plans for us. By the way, we have six (6) children between us, a mortgage, two vehicles, oh and at the time a soon-to-be newborn baby girl (May 2015) – so you could only imagine my reservation about this from a financial perspective alone. BUT God told us – GO! It’s time! So, as a newly multi-blended family, pregnant, newlyweds, we obeyed God. We didn’t have a building, a people, and barely a blessing from our leader whom we spoke to prior to leaving. BUT we obeyed God. The month of June, while recovering from having a baby, we planned and we prayed and God made a way. Today, The Kingdom Life Center Inc., is almost two years old and God has blessed us with our own rented space for more than 1 year now; we own and operate two (2) buses for community service and outreach, and the ministry has changed lives and perception of “church” for many. So why so much information? Because my perception of ‘Married to the Ministry has several layers, and that could be true for many depending on who is telling the story. However, the common denominator in most stories is more than likely OBEDIENCE of some sort (or DISOBEDIENCE). “Married” in most dictionaries refers to the terms as a state of being in a union. Obedience is similarly defined. When you are in a state of UNION (not State of the Union) with God, or in other words, in the Will of God you must trust that you will WIN, even when it looks like you are losing. I was simply obedient to God’s will for my life. My husband was obedient. You see, The Kingdom Life Center Inc., did not exist at all. It was not a building or body of people inherited from our father or grandfather, neither was it just an unused building someone decided to hand down to us. It was only a vision produced after hearing the voice of God. Both my husband and I were completely reliant on God to bring His vision for our lives to fruition. When I said “yes” to my husband’s proposal of marriage, I also said “yes” to God’s will and purpose for my life (I knew it was God because I vowed to never date a preacher or musician). Through the birth of this ministry, as well as this union/marriage, my faith was increased, my prayer life became more developed, I became strengthened in fasting, as well as a doer, digester, and deliverer of His Word like never before. Simply through my obedience. I wasn’t grand and I won’t claim it now – but way too many of us have made the office of leading lady, whether by marriage or otherwise seem to be this “thing” you can train for or just "dress" the part. Many of our experiences prior to leadership are indeed helpful, but being a devoted Elect Lady, Pastor, Evangelist can only be perfected when you are in it, and in a place of surrender, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead. Being able to accept and embrace "I don't know" and then trust God. Seeking the
face of the Lord and asking Him to give you what you need for a particular season, a particular people. Because if you attempt to prepare on your own intellect, it’s like studying for the GMAT and then being presented with the LSATs. When God calls you to a place of assignment, even when he gives you a glimpse, he doesn't let you see the messy part. That's part of the process. Additionally, when married to ministry, sometimes it requires you to expose your own ugly parts so that you can really have a Pentecost experience - one where you understand and can be on one accord with God. So with all of that going on and having to lead people - the MARRIED to the ministry route is the only way. Being in complete union with God. Any other way is just missing the mark. Now I don't mean you must be married to a person, but it requires a level of "deep" that you just can't get from a boyfriend/girlfriend status! You must marry this thing! I had to - because my relationship with God depended on it. I knew of the Lord, and His power, but I didn't REALLY know him. Admittedly, I knew church. But, I didn't have the personal encounter that Paul often describes. I didn't cross over from boyfriend/girlfriend status to married. I am free to say that today because I KNOW God, and more importantly, He KNOWS me (like He knows me so, I feel like he answers me "Yes dear child"). BUT THANKS, BE TO GOD. He had a plan for me. Many folks won't admit this, but I want to be as transparent to any reader contemplating ministry and true servitude. Transformation of lives, deliverance, and long-lasting impact on the lives of others requires something more than a few memorized scriptures, a few worship songs, and a moan in your prayer or sermons. You must spend time in God's presence - which makes the difference. As a boyfriend/girlfriend, you get to choose when you see one another, but when you are married, you live together, you see one another at wake-up, bedtime, and in between. So for me - I was blessed double. I literally married ministry, which leads me to a greater ministry of marriage with God. My husband who was already a seasoned Pastor, preacher and prophet of God helped me get to place in God I didn't even know I could. This is so far the greatest part of my journey. If I had to speak to other women in the leadership of ministry, I would remind them to check their 'relationship status' with God. We spend a lot of time trying to figure out who likes, loves, tolerates us; and repairing sometimes what God wants to replace. But how often do we evaluate or "update" our relationship status with God? Because the relationship with Him will shape all other relationships in your life. Seek ye first .....and ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED. We want marriage! Beyonce made millions about a song that celebrates the transition (Put a Ring on it). Solidify your relationship. Because, when you are married to the ministry of God, you usually birth things you didn't even think you could conceive. If you are a single woman in ministry, your relationship status with God will help you make a real impact - perhaps building other solid relationships and becoming a true influencer and agent of change. Especially if your sole purpose is to glorify Him. If you are married to a Pastor/Evangelist, your relationship status with God helps with preventing getting lost in your spouse's ministry but building upon it for an even deeper reach. WIN! WIN! Can a marriage to ministry be tough? Yes. But isn't that true for natural marriage? Therefore, I won't focus on some of the struggles associated to Ministry Marriage, because in my view, the BETTER certainly outweighs the WORST.
Lady Gatlin
Summer Favorites
It’s getting hot out there but we can stay cool with these summer favorite recipes. The one thing I love about the warmer weather, are the fruits. I can eat a bowl of fruit salad and be content. It doesn’t hurt to add that extra nutritional value to our diets, especially with all the family reunions and traveling we do over summer months. Watermelon is one my absolute favorite fruits to consume in the summer. It’s not summer until you have had a sweet, cold watermelon to refresh you from that summer heat! Instead of running to our normal lemonade to quench our thirst, we are going to have our very own Watermelon Punch. I will warn you that this punch won’t last long in your fridge, so you may have to find a way to disguise it if you don’t want to share (LOL). Our snack to go with the punch will be a grape salad. The cream cheese and sour cream mixture in this classic are tasty and the chopped pecans just make it even better, but you can leave them out if you have a nut allergy. This is also a great dish to bring to office parties and church potlucks. To cut down on the cost you can use the store brand cream cheese and sour cream. I’ve tested the Great Value and Kroger brands and they work great! If you have an Aldi in your area, they run great sales on fruit. You can find the grapes for 99 cents per pound. Be on the lookout for those sales. Shop smart and save money, while treating yourself! Watermelon Punch (source: www.foodnetwork.com) Ingredients 6 cups cubed, seeded watermelon 1/3 cup Simple Syrup, recipe follows 1 (12-ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate, Thawed 2 cups unsweetened pineapple juice Crushed Ice Simple Syrup: 1 cup water ½ cup sugar Directions: Combine watermelon and Simple Syrup in the container of an electric blender; process until smooth. Push mixture through a fine-mesh strainer, discarding solids.
Return watermelon syrup to the blender. Add lemonade concentrate and pineapple juice and blend well. Serve over crushed ice. Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar; cook over low heat until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 1 minute. Remove from heat; cool. Grape Salad (source: www.tasteofhome.com) 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream 1/3 cup sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 pounds seedless red grapes 2 pounds seedless green grapes 3 tablespoons brown sugar 3 Tablespoons chopped pecans Directions: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla until blended. Add grapes and toss to coat. Transfer to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans just before serving. Yields: 21-24 servings. Test Kitchen Tips In many recipes, thick and tangy Greek yogurt stands in beautifully for sour cream and lightens things up. Mix in chopped candy bars. Crunchy Snickers and Heath bars play particularly well with the juicy grapes. Bon Appetite, Chef Chantea www.esanasdelights.com
Daughters of Zion, Arise!!! By Apostle Denise Chase
I was asked the question, “what have you and God been conversing about concerning His daughters”? Taken aback for a moment. I answered with only this, “God said it’s time for His Daughters to Arise”. In Mark 5:2142 we find Jesus addressing 2 major issues of DAUGHTERS. The first, the woman with the issue of blood that she had been suffering with for 12 (long) years. It is important to pay attention to the mention of “time” here because the message is that NO MATTER how long we have been dealing with/suffering from a matter, issue, circumstance, situation, etc. JESUS IS ABLE to deliver and set us free. Many of us as women have been feeling so trapped in what we have been going through, we have given up hope and lost faith. But, my sisters, be encouraged and look up because the REDEEMER has come to rescue you and give clarity to your suffering and release you into destiny. The woman with the issue of blood suffered from her issue as long as she did because she allowed her issue to “Have her” until she came to the place of saying enough is enough and fighting back and saying “I will no longer be a prisoner to this issue”. A lot of you reading this article now feel that you just can’t break free from whatever you are dealing with right now. You’re saying “I wish I could get out of this”, I wish I could change, etc. And the good news is YOU CAN!!!!! God is speaking to you now, saying, DAUGHTER ARISE!!!!! Get up and move from where you are. There is greater that is before you. However, if YOU don’t pursue it, you won’t have it. The woman with the issue a blood tried everything within her own means and power to change her situation, but to no avail. It wasn’t until she realized that her issue was greater than what she was able to handle that she needed HELP that exceeded the power of her and man. The scripture says that when “she heard” that Jesus was passing by, made up in her own mind that I am going to be healed from this issue. She got tired of suffering, being in bondage, restricted and confined from movement, tired of not living a FREE life, tired of being a slave to the confines of her condition. The constriction of her condition provoked her to pursue her freedom. JESUS IS PASSING YOUR WAY, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO? The second account we see in this scripture is a father grieving for his daughter that was dying. But he could not be settled with that being the final result of her life. So, against the counsel of friends and family who had already begun her memorial service, he sought out for Jesus to come and lay hands on his daughter that she may live. When Jesus arrived, the girl had died. Weeping and wailing had begun, etc. Let me pause here and say this, isn’t it amazing how those around us that are supposed to have our backs, and be a support to us are the first ones to say “GIVE UP”, LOSE FAITH, DOUBT and say the matter is HOPELESS? It is in those times that we must DECIDE for ourselves that I REFUSE TO GIVE UP, COUNT MYSELF OUT and not go after the GREATER that awaits me. The woman with the issue of blood was probably told since there is nothing else that can be done for her to just go home and wait to die, BUT SHE DECIDED….death was not her portion. Just as Jairus refused to accept the death of his daughter. Notice what Jesus says when he arrives where her lifeless body lies. He asks, “why all this weeping and commotion? This girl is NOT DEAD, she only sleeps”. The mourners laughed at him and he sent them away. Apostle, why are you being so extensive with this one? Because, beloved of God, HE wants us, HIS daughters to understand and know that DEATH IS NOT OUR PORTION. It is time for us to RISE UP and give birth to what HE has impregnated us with for HIS GLORY!!!!!
God wants us as His daughters to know that He has not forgotten about us. Our suffering has been a process of emerging the true essence of who He has created us to be, to come forth. Those of us that have been pushed to the back, ignored, thought to be nothing, are now being brought to the forefront to reveal a GREATER GLORY from our STORY. There is nothing that we have faced, gone through, had to deal with that has been a surprise to God. Even when it looked and felt like DEATH had consumed us, GOD SAID LIVE!!!!! Your life has been preserved for this time. He has prepared a table before you in the presence of your enemies, not for vengeance, but to testify of His goodness and bring them out of bondage. Your situation could not win, VICTORY was already ensured. God is calling you out of hiding and has made a way for you in your wilderness. He has made a way of escape for you out of that abusive relationship, that generational cycle of sin and iniquity, manipulation and control, family dysfunction, etc. You are now embarking on the BEST DAYS OF YOUR life!!!!!! So, DAUGHTERS OF ZION, ARISE. It is our time to impact, empower and infuse our families, community, churches, ministries, work-places. Etc. Our situations, circumstances, and issues may have been intended to kill us off, cause us to lose our minds, do something unethical, unwise, BUT GOD HAD ANOTHER PLAN!!!! You will do great and mighty exploits; you will proclaim the good news of the Gospel of Jesus and so much more!!!!Again, I declare unto you, DAUGHTERS OF ZION, ARISE!!!!!! Graciously submitted by Apostle Denise Chase a.k.a. “THE BREAKER” Empowering, Encouraging and Equipping women to break cycles of negativity and embrace the freedom to become the Designer’s Originals they were created to be. Founder and COO of Know Your Worth Empowerment Group, LLC
Nailz GlamHer By Shana Sanders
Oh my, it’s been quite a while ladiessss and I'm backkkk with some Nailz GlamHer 411! As much as most of us are in need of Full Pamper Sessions sometimes we find it hard to get the time we need to get these sessions in. We've all referred to this time as "Me Time". Of course, this time does exist somewhere in the universe but when we are always on the go we just can't seem to be able to find it because it's always hiding from us or at least me anyway, I'm laughing out loud. So in between making or trying to find this time we still need to look and feel our best. It's what keeps us at the very top of our game looking and feeling confident as Women CEO's, Entrepreneurs, Bosses, Managers, and Moms. I don't know about you but a great manicure or a nail color that pops always make me feel like I can conquer the world. That 1st day I talk with nothing but my hands literally lol!! The product that I most recently tested out will do both dry fast and look cute in the short time we have when we are on the go especially when we haven't been able to get to our regular pamper sessions. This is an “As Seen on TV” product, The Spray Perfect Nail Polish. It's quick and easy to use. If you are looking for a long lasting painted nails then this product may not be for you. This is a quick fix that will get the job done for 3 maybe 4 days it all depends on what you do with your hands but it's not an extended or gel-like wear. As always make sure you use a base coat to be careful not to stain your natural nails. I put nail forms on my nails which is not required but I wanted to make sure I'm aiming at only the nails I'm painting and not the table or counter top. Spray each nail once after base coat has dried. If you prefer a deeper or darker color feel to spray again. The Spray paint dries almost immediately then the top coat can be applied. I use an off brand Super dry top coat so it dries pretty fast. After the top coat has dried you can wash any excess paint on your hands or nails off in the sink with soap and water. Now your ready to do what needs to be done and your nails are dry and cute. When we don't see, feel or experience it much sometimes it may very well almost seem non-existent, so we have to make that time and be adamant about it, almost bully ourselves into finding and enjoying some much needed "Me Time" and when u just can't but need a quick fix try out As seen on TV Spray Perfect Nail Polish it will get the job done. Got questions please feel free to email me @ NailzGlamHer@gmail.com. XOXOXO Smoochies Shana
Navigating the Three Stages of Wealth By L. Renee Richardson ost people define wealth as how much money they have in life. There is a difference between wealth and money. Money is the current medium of exchange (such as coins or bills) used as a way to pay for goods and services and to pay people for their work. I believe that money travels in cycles but wealth is eternal. Wealthy people love what they do and walk in their divine purpose. They live to serve. Walking in your true purpose or calling will translate into monetary gain…eventually…if you stay focused. Money, however, is not to be your purpose. In life, there are three stages of money: the land of not enough, the land of just enough, and the land of more than enough. You can be wealthy and not have money “yet” because you are traveling “through” the three stages of money. Your objective is to keep moving through each land until you reach your wealthy place. Money is a byproduct of success but not the end result. Many people give up in the first two stages before they enter the land of more than enough. Our goal in life is to arrive at the land of more than enough - a place of true riches and wealth. Wealth is the “abundance” of valuable possessions including purpose, destiny, time, friends, and service to mankind. Let’s explore the three stages of money.
LAND OF NOT ENOUGH. During this stage, money appears to be elusive. You have great ideas but you cannot get them to generate the "cash" you need to survive. It's the land where life is an economic struggle and the word "lack" is painted on your forehead. I believe that 40% of people dwell here. In this stage, it's easy to focus primarily on life's necessities (food, clothing, and shelter). You keep trying new ideas, working on your dreams, making the right connections but still there is not enough money. It's a desert place. It's not for the fearful or timid at heart. It takes guts, sincere determination and a never give up attitude to get through this landscape. It's hot, dry, and dirty. It requires vision and tenacity to move through this land. We must understand the principles of 2 Corinthians 4:18 that tells us to "think about what we cannot see, not what we see." In other words, we must tap into our imaginations and live beyond our circumstances. Why? According to 2 Corinthians 4:18, "what we see lasts only a short time and what we cannot see will last forever."
LAND OF JUST ENOUGH. This stage is popular. I believe about 50 percent of people live here. It looks like the land of more than enough but it really is "just enough." It's about appearances and making enough to cover your mortgage or rent, bills, loans, credit cards, and a little extra. It's also a deceptive place. It becomes tempting to live beyond your means. The Bible calls it the deceitfulness of riches. It's all about appearances. You look "wealthy" but you are really just one or two paychecks from losing your home or car. There are no savings in this stage, just enough to sustain your daily living. It's also a place of heavy debt to pay for homes, cars, travel, clothes so that you can look rich. Here you shop for knock-offs. You have a good job, take fun vacations but you have no savings.
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LAND OF MORE THAN ENOUGH. This is a place of purpose and providing lots of value to those you serve. You have tapped into your purpose in life and are walking in your destiny. It's your wealthy place. The land of more than enough is full of wealth or abundance. The Bible says the rich have many friends. Your passion has taken you to the cross. After you have suffered a while, then He will establish you. He makes you stronger, faster and of a greater service to mankind. Life is no longer about you. In Matthew 10-39 we learn that 'those who give up their life for me will find true life." You live to bless others and as a result, your life is blessed beyond measure. Few people actually enter the land of more than enough (maybe 10 percent) because they look at money as their measurement of God - success. If God has given you a dream, keep pushing, pressing and re-inventing your life until you reach your purpose. Joy awaits you in the land of more than enough. Don't give up!
CEO Life ~ Ladies In By Nova Mines
Greetings from Ladies In Hats, My name is Nova L. Mines. I am the Founder of Ladies In Hats. Ladies in Hats was a vision given to me by God. I was inspired to step out on faith by encouraging words from a Dear Friend. The vision for Ladies in Hats came from a group of relationships that I had with women that have blessed my Life and Spirit over time. Learning from my Life’s experiences and learning to live in my own truths. The goal of Ladies in Hats is to Reflect, Inspire, Up Lift, Rejuvenate, and Push each and every Woman that participates into a place of having a more personal intimate relationship with their selves, as well as every woman she encounters. We Are Our Sisters’ Keeper. One of my favorite sayings is – I am My Sister’s Keeper … I, Nova L. Mines was born January 12, 1974, to my awesome parents, Earl and Diane Edwards. I married my fabulous husband, Lawrence T Mines, my High School sweetheart. We have one son, Anthony T Mines, who is married to my daughter-in-law Alicia Mines and my 3 grandchildren Aaliyah, Amir and Alaysia Mines. This is my blood line. This is my Legacy and this is my strength. I said all of that to say, this is God’s way for me to fulfill my lifelong dream of leaving a Legacy to my children’s, children. I am a strong believer in my faith; the GOD I serve does not discriminate. My heart is open and receptive to the call that GOD has on my Life and that is to reach as many purpose-driven women as possible. God has also opened up my heart to allow men to share in the purpose as well. We all have so much to learn from one another. I am devoted to my Faith in God and his Grace and Mercy that has been bestowed on me daily. I am honored with having women gather together with no discrimination of denomination, color, lifestyle or social class to bring together the common goal of sisterhood. One quote that I have prided myself on is “I am my Sister’s Keeper”. This is a statement that over time and trial and error has become true to my heart with the many experiences of women that have shown up as friends, associates, confidants, mentors, teachers and etc. I am so thankful for every experience, happiness, tears, conversations, emotions, mistrust, being lied on, talked about, mistreated, misunderstood, taken advantage of, being loved and so on. But with each experience, I have taken something that cannot be more appreciated, Life Lessons, each of them I am thankful for. Each year God gives me purpose and vision of what is needed and what he wants from me. I am learning to lead by example and grow with learning. Each year has proven to be GOD's best. This year I will be celebrating along with my partner and friend Aneshia Smith our 4th year of Ladies in Hats. Aneshia, a single parent of one (Brittani) joined Ladies in Hats with me in October 2015. I invited Aneshia to be a guest speaker on my panel and GOD revealed to me that she was an answer to my prayer. How many of us know that we can’t be great all by ourselves and balance is good for our lives. While working with Aneshia on my 2015 banquet I shared a few of my visions as well as passions for Ladies in Hats with her and in return she shared with me what was to come. With that being said, a working relationship formed. When something is for you GOD will make it easy and successful your way. This was an excellent decision and transition. I am not the easiest person to work with, not because I’m difficult but because my passion sometimes interferes with being able to let go. Aneshia came along and helped create balance in my life so that Ladies in Hats would be everything we both dreamed it could be. I admit one of my biggest fears in life is failure, but what trumps that fear is not trying. My model for working on being the best at what I do is, to never allow a lie to be the truth and if you know something to be your truth, then prove it. Meaning if I say I can do it then go for it. Each year Aneshia and I work hard to give
Ladies in Hats our best. We recognize that each event is not for everyone but for those that show up we want them to leave with an experience that’s unforgettable. When I first started Ladies in Hats I was not sure what direction God wanted me to take. The 1st year of Ladies in Hats I just simply wanted to thank the many women that had made an impact in my life in some way. Not all that I wanted to, participated but for those that did, it was very gratifying to my soul. I knew the organization had a unique purpose and I wanted it to stand out for those that needed what I had to offer. With much prayer and interceding, God began to show me the direction to take with what had been birthed. The following years to come we began to join the journeys of others that had walked in the same shoes of many but found it hard for them to speak on it. Aneshia and I wanted to give voice to a quiet storm while mountains were being removed. The Second year of Ladies in Hats Aneshia and I invited guest speaker, Robin Wright, a single mom with 3 children that had lost both parents. The question was, “Where do you go when your foundation seemed to be broken.” Robin Walked us into a place of peace with Gods will for our lives, but helped us remember and appreciate the lessons of our parents or loved ones. Because once God picks from our garden, we only have the memories of what a beautiful season we once had. Year three was “No Woman Should Walk Alone”. Guest speakers Michelle LaFrancis Wells, (a breast cancer survivor) and Aquarius Ketner, (wife of Larry Ketner who gained his wings), walked us through a day in their lives and the effects of cancer on their families. For me, the experiences have been so life changing and rewarding. Being able to share in someone else’s journey and finding peace on our own at the same time, we’ve all heard the old saying we all are going through something. Ladies in Hats is that place where you find that you are not alone. The most rewarding part of building this organization for me is receiving the phone calls, emails and the words of encouragement after each event. So many feels alone and so many have no outlet, this is a place of peace for many. I love knowing that I possibly opened a door for someone to open their hearts to another woman that would benefit from her story or journey. For me personally, last year my father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer one month before my event. While I struggled through, with Aneisha making sure the event still took off with success, I never thought about the healing and strength I would receive, from the many that had also gone through the process that I would now have to go through. My guest speaker Michelle LaFrancis Wells became my encouragement, my voice of peace as my family began the battle against cancer. I was receiving healing from the exact same source that I had aspired for others to receive from. This was a great eye opener for me. I appreciated the gift of my sister’s keepers that began to hear of my family’s journey and with many prayers and strength from others my family is winning along with my Dad. This is the blessing that I want to make sure others receive when attending a Ladies in Hats event. Some of the challenges that we've faced along the way are finding the right venues, staying in budget. One challenge that we are faced with, is having to turn people away that want to be speakers or offer services that are not needed. We are very mindful of how we present ourselves to those that are watching. We want to
always be an honorable servant of the gift that God has blessed us with. We are thankful for the repeat patrons and we want to stay true to the original program direction which keeps those involved, engaged. Each year we say we are going to have a cut-off date for ticket purchasing and it never works. We don't want anyone to miss out on a single blessing. Otherwise, this has been a blessing and we are thankful for each vendor that supports us, like JG Photos, who has supported us by capturing the best moments at each event. As the CEO of the Ladies in Hats organization, one critical golden rule I have set for myself is to stay true to my calling and the direction that God has given me for this project. This has been a blessing for me and I will remain humble for all things that come from God are gifts that we should cherish. In the midst of this, I have learned to seek God in all that I do and that has taught me to meditate and trust God. So this scripture I hold close to my heart, Isaiah 30:15 – “In quiet and in confidence shall be your strength.” This year I am extremely excited as we will be hosting our first male speaker. We will be tackling a subject that we as women need to be mindful of, mothers that separate their child from their fathers. We have a tentative date of October 15, 2017. The Venue, Time and Dates will be announced in July. Nova Mines CEO of Ladies In Hats
Dream Encounters By Alisa Wimbley
I was born in Tchula Mississippi, in December of nineteen sixty- nine. I was raised by my mother and grandmother until I was four years old. My parents fell in love at a young age. My father was seventeen, and my mother was sixteen years old when I was born. After a few years, my parents decided to get married. My father then packed his belongings up and moved to Chicago, IL. After a while, my father was blessed with his first job and moved into his first apartment. After a year had passed, my father returned back to Mississippi to pick up his new family. By this time I was four years old, and my brother was one year old. We started a new life in Chicago, IL together. Shortly after my entire family arrived at the Windy City, my parents started attending church faithfully. I have been raised up in the church all of my life. My parents served faithfully in the house of God. We attended church faithfully, but I didn’t receive Christ in my life as my personal Savior until after I was all grown up. I fell in love and married at a young age as well and married at nineteen. I gave birth to two beautiful children, Louis, and Kevin Wimbley. Louis is a Teacher and a Pastor. Kevin just graduated from college receiving him master’s degree. I spent years searching for my calling and purpose for life. After I was married I decided to attend nursing school; I realized how much I love to help people because of my personal experience. Nursing became a strong heart’s desire of mine. I received my LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse). During nursing school I meet a young lady; she begins to tell me about Jesus. Even though I was raised up in church, I didn't have a personal relationship with my creator. Shortly after graduation, I started attending her church, and the rest is history. I started learning who Christ was, and what He did just for me. I begin to grow in the things of God. I love God and serve at my local church under the leadership of Apostle Jonathan and Stella Swain. I recurrently attend God’s True Love Ministry. I serve as a Sunday School teacher, and I also serve on the Intercessory prayer team. I’m recurrently serving as well for WIMBA ~ Women In Ministry and Business Alliance, under Pastor Joyce Calvin. This is an outreach ministry to help direct women lives towards the purpose of God. I serve God in the area of Prophet, Teacher, Author, Intercessor, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Nurse. I also enjoy writing, as I started writing in 2015; completing my first book, The Secrets Behind Closed Doors, in 2016. My latest two books are also available or soon to be available on Amazon. Dream Encounter | God Speaks Through Dreams, was released in June and Arrive Next Generation | Take Your Place will be released soon. My Dream Encounter Book was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write. God has blessed me to be a dreamer, and then he downloads the meaning and the message of the dream into my spirit. Since God has trained me through dreams, I wanted to share my personal experience with ours. God just didn't give me dreams; He also rebuked me, trained me, and corrected me in my dreams. I didn’t realize that God was also preparing me to walk into the office of a Prophet. Dream Encounter literally changed my life. Writing has truly become my true passion. Author: Alisa Wimbley To: place an order for my books, head on over to Amazon.com: https:// www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Daps&fieldkeywords=alisa+wimbley Or email me at: alisawimbley@gmail.com
A Lady In Waiting By Prophet Monique
ady in waiting! Really? What are we waiting for? It is time to live our lives out loud, full of zest, enjoying great food and loads of laughter. Waiting for what? How many of us have had our lives on hold, for one thing, or the other? Waiting for checks to clear. Waiting for something to go on sale or clearance, only for it to finally happen and they’re out of our size or needed color. Waiting for your food to come, only to realize they clearly didn’t get your order right. Waiting for some guy, great or not so great at all to realize that he is already connected to a true lady. Puh-leaze! Who has time to wait? Well technically, we all should. You know that little saying that good things come to those who wait, yet I don’t just want good anymore, not even great will do. I want explosive, mind stimulating, heart pounding, run tell that, but not all, because there are still some waiting and lurking to catch you slipping. I want that write home and tell your momma, kind of life that’s so juicy you even have to filter what the letter can carry. So if only good things come to those who wait, what comes to those who build, who lives, who unapologetically unconditionally love out loud? Waiting doesn’t mean you put your life on hold. Waiting is a period of expecting. t you can’t expect something for nothing. So even though you’re expecting, you should still be doing something. The something is dependent upon what you’re expecting. Let’s take a love interest for example. Many say you should be what you expect. I disagree. I expect God’s brilliance in the form of a man. I clearly can’t become a man, when I was so graciously fearfully and wonderfully formed as an amazing woman. Why trade? Now, what I can do while waiting is explore and learn of me. I do that by exploring life and all it has to offer me. This cultivates my perspective by exposing me to things outside of me. It teaches me to properly value and exchange with other personalities, without losing myself. It broadens my scope of thinking as it stretches my learning outside of the limitations of my own thoughts. It introduces me to the good, bad and sho'nuff ugly that lurks throughout life. It also perfects my responses, while sharpening my discernment and elevating my level of communication. This Dora the Explorer mission helps shape me into becoming my best me, yielding me confident in just how fabulous, God created me. Whitney Houston’s song says something along the lines of not knowing how much she could take. There is a parable floating around about the pressure from boiling water and a tea bag. Though hot, the production is delicious and versatile, because although it is first hot, it is also refreshing when served cold. The journey of life, reveals to us what’s inside of us, rather it is all good or mixed with some not so great A, B & C selections. Our journey releases our rhythms of life and it is when we encounter our truth and embrace our exploratory journey that we discover our best life. I believe I just uncovered the steps needed during my timeout, regarding this issue’s Heart Beat. Now back to this particular piece. What a gift to present God’s brilliance with! The true essence of who we are. I won’t have to conform to him, because God’s love for me matched with my love and respect for myself, will yield a glow so undeniable that it will draw him right on over to the favor that God has waiting for him. He will fall in love with who I am and I him as we journey on together exploring life. Got me ready to start singing “I love me some him”. Well ladies, enjoy life and only wait for the things worth waiting for. If it won’t add value to your heart, do you really need it? Do you truly want to be bothered with it? I must admit that I have reduced my waiting list and I am working on living my best life out loud. Smooches ladies, until next time.