SISTAH Talk: God's Cover Girl

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™ THE SISTAHS MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL JANUARY – MARCH, 2013

God’s COVERGIRL Living in the overflow of being covered

You Were Built to Go Through the Storm Monifa Robinson Groover Word on the Street:

Singles & SEX Deaquelynn Williams

SISTAH Teens:

Violence Against Girls Countering Attacks on Our Marriages

Can You Be Hot And Holy?

Danielle Jackson

Minister Enna Bachelor Domestic Violence Feature:

Getting Out & Moving On

ON THE COVER: Evangelist Cherisse Stephens, Author of “How to Be God’s Cover Girl”

Lisa Drew

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

About

The SISTAHS Ministry International

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

(Romans 12:1)

SISTAH Teen Mentoring Initiative ELDER SHARNAE COAKLEY

International Chapters Africa and Italy EVANGELIST MAGDALINE JOYCE IHAZA

India PASTOR JOSHUA GONA Mt. Hebron Prayer Church

U.S. Chapters Massachusetts

Saved by grace In the beauty of holiness Seeking to serve and encourage all women Taking back what the devil has attempted to steal from us Anointed by the power of God presenting our bodies Holy and acceptable unto God which is our reasonable Service OUR MISSION Uniting women and teenage girls, who are victims of domestic violence, at-risk, single mothers and homeless, to impact their world is the heart beat of The S.I.S.T.A.H.S Ministry International through partnering together in ministries of evangelism and compassion to train, empower, inform and inspire.

VERONICA D. TRUELL

Nevada CARMEN L. WEST

New York MIN. CHERYL BRAXTON

Pennsylvania VIS. VALARIE D. COLEMAN

Tennessee

OUR VISION The S.I.S.T.A.H.S Ministry International gives leadership to at-risk teens, teen mothers, victims of domestic violence, authors, poets, women with business and other ministries. Through a shared vision and the empowering of the Holy Spirit, The SISTAHS Ministry works within the principles of the Bible to obey the great commandment and the great commission, carrying out Christ’s redeeming work of love, mercy, and justice in the world.

MIN. TIFFANY R. EASLEY

Co-Founder VALERIE BUTLER

Co-Founder & Director REV. CELESTE KELLEY

P.O. Box 401121 Redford, MI 48240-1121 Phone: (313) 451-2559 TheSISTAHSMinistry@yahoo.com www.TheSISTAHSMinistry.com

VISIT OUR DEVOTIONAL BLOGS: www.PowerandPurpose2011.blogspot.com www.BreakthroughAnointing2012.blogspot.com www.ASLDatingandRelationships.blogspot.com Living In Favor and Empowerment (L.I.F.E.) RADIO BROADCAST: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/TheSISTAHSMinistry JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP: www.Facebook.com/TheSISTAHSMinistry

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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Letter From the Editor

Living in the Overflow of God’s Grace Grace is the heart of our faith. It is the center of our relationship with God. When we come to understand that our salvation is based on grace – we will be drawn closer to God and we will love God more. Grace is like a multifaceted diamond – there are many aspects to it. Grace has been defined in a variety of ways: some have said – grace is “God’s unmerited favor.” Some have said grace is, "God’s love in action." Others define it as: "God giving me what I need – not what I deserve." One of my favorite definitions is – "Grace is the face that God wears when He looks at my failures." For you see that God is always – “gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy.”

When it comes to grace – God doesn’t play favorites. You can be tall or you can be short. You can be male or you can be female. You can be rich or you can be poor. You can have dark skin or you can have light skin. Regardless of your background, regardless of your status, regardless of your sin – God is more than willing to show you His grace. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been a religious person or a non-religious person – God’s grace is available to you.

Christ’s death on the cross was for a purpose – to cover your sin and my sin. Someone had to be punished for what we have done wrong. Someone – had to be deal with it.

Christ did. All of us have messed up – really messed up – but Jesus came to fix it. By His dying on the cross He suffered the punishment that we deserved. Now we are offered God’s saving grace.

God’s saving grace is a free gift. You can accept it in faith by believing that Christ died for your sins. Grace is offered to you and to me because of what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross. Some have taken the word grace – G R A C E - and said it means God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. You see God’s saving grace comes through the sacrifice of Christ – it comes only because Christ died for your sin.

Serving the Lord of the OVERFLOW,

Rev. Celeste Kelley

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

~ Table of Contents ~ “The Story of a Miracle Child” In Memory of Monica Mazique Smith ...........................................................6 SISTAH Teen Mentoring Initiative “Violence Against Girls” .................................................................................................................................10 Word on the Street – Dating & Relationship Principles “The Dating Game: Tips for Single Moms Looking for Love” from Circle of Moms ............................12 “Singles & Sex: Guard Your Heart” by Deaquelynn Williams ....................................................................13 Virtuosity – Marriage & Divorce Principles “Three Signs That Flirting Has Crossed the Line” ......................................................................................16 “Countering Attacks on Our Marriages” by Minister Enna A. Bachelor ..................................................18 A SISTAH’s Lifestyle – Life Coaching Principles “For Every Action There is a Reaction” by Kimle Mitchell ........................................................................20 “Purpose – Passion – Power by C. Roach and V. Priester ...........................................................................22 On the Cover: GOD’S CoverGirl “Living in the Overflow of Being Covered” ..............................................................................................24

Living the Victorious & Blessed Life “You Were Built to Go Through the Storm” by Monifa Robinson Groover ...............................................28 “The ‘How’ of My Deliverance is Up to God” by Darlene Rigsby ...........................................................29 Domestic Violence & Abuse “Getting Out and Moving On” by Lisa Drew .............................................................................................30 Health & Beauty “10 Benefits of Rooibos Tea” by Shelita Williams, R.N. ..............................................................................31 A SISTAH’s Closet “Can You Be Hot & Holy” by Sandra Mizell Chaney .....................................................................................33 Services & Business Network ...........................................................................................................34 Soul SISTAHS Café of Reading & Poetry “Meet Carla Cannon” ....................................................................................................................................38 “By Fire” by Wanda J. Burnside ..........................................................................................................................39 Christian Events & Evangelism (C.E.E.) Network ..............................................................43

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In Memory of Monica Mazique Smith who the Lord took home to Glory in February, 2013, we republish her story from our December, 2012 issue.

The Story of a Miracle Child

By MONICA MAZIQUE SMITH My name is Monica Mazique Smith. I am African-American, 40 years old, and a person who has a physical disability (Congenital Hypotonia, a form of Muscular Dystrophy) and uses a power wheelchair.

I was born on May 14, 1972 on Mother's Day in Battle Creek, MI. I am the youngest of five children. My mother was about to go out to Mother's Day dinner with the family when she suddenly went into labor. After she was at the hospital she was having severe pain, so she told the doctor that she was about to deliver.

The doctor told her that she had plenty of time before she would deliver. The doctor left and got on the elevator to assist a young girl who was also in labor. Well. It turned out that my mother was ready to deliver. I started coming out. Everyone started calling for the doctor, but no one could find him. As I was coming out, I turned around inside my mother. The nurse didn't know how to turn me around the correct way so I ended up coming out "butt" first. I was born breech birth. I had to be rushed into an incubator because I could not breathe on my own. I had to stay in the hospital for several months until I was able to breathe on my own. When I was ready to go home, the hospital tried to convince my mother to place me in a home for the “handicapped” (1970’s language). She told everyone "No!", including my father and that she was taking her baby home with her. The doctors said that I was going to be nothing but a "living vegetable."

My mother never stopped working with me. She would place me in front of the television set even though my eyes would not motivate. She would put toys in my hands even though I did not have enough muscle strength to hold them. As a baby, I didn't have enough muscle strength to suck from a bottle, so an elderly German woman brought my mother a lamb's nipple which required little strength to suck from and that is how I began to be able to suck. But even after all of that, I was still not moving or responding at all. One day, my mother cried out to God an d asked Him to please give her a sign to show her that she was not doing all of this in vain. All of a sudden, she felt something cold and clammy slap her in the face. It was my little hand that had made its way up her face. It was the first time that I had ever moved. My mother was so excited that she jumped off the bed almost knocking me over, screaming my father's name. "Fred, Fred!" The baby moved!"

Years passed. I had several obstacles. I acquired an upper-respiratory breathing problem. My muscles were too weak for me to walk, so I ended up being in a wheelchair. My chest began caving in, so I had to have surgery when I was about three years old to have my chest uplifted off my heart, lungs, and spine. I later had a muscle taken out of each of my legs so that doctors could do a muscle biopsy on them. Doctors determined that I have the type of muscles that will grow stronger,

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not weaker over time.

In school, I was a straight “A" student all the way through elementary to high school. Throughout my years in school, I was harassed and teased. I had no friends, never went to school dances, and was never asked out on dates. I constantly kept my head held high and graduated from high school, earning a scholarship from the Springfield Lion's Club. Teachers told me that I would never make it going to a big university and that I needed to go to a small community college, so I began attending Kellogg Community College. I soon became bored there, so me, my mother, and my father moved to Carbondale, IL where I began attending Southern Illinois University, which had a student population of over 26, 000. I majored in Psychology there. My mother and father would drop me off to class and then would go home. On Thursday, February 27, 1992 about 4:30 PM, my mother and a lady came to my algebra class. My mother was crying. When she had gone back to the van to ride home with my father, she had found him slumped over the steering wheel and he was not breathing.

Apparently, my father had had a massive heart attack and had died. I immediately began crying hysterically.

That was one of the worst days of my life. My mother and I continued the dream of my father. We wanted to be closer to family and familiar faces, so we moved back home to Battle Creek, MI.

SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

I began attending the extension site in Battle Creek for Western Michigan University. On April 22, 1995, I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Liberal Studies. I was honored at my graduation ceremony by the president of the university. I was also interviewed by the local newspaper, "Battle Creek Enquirer." I didn't stop there. I continued for a Master of Arts degree in Public Administration. I also completed two internships for two human service agencies. On April 25, 1998, I acquired my Master of Arts degree in Public Administration. Again, I completed a milestone that others said that I could not possibly do.

On February 24, 2000, I was appointed by our former governor, Gov. John Engler to serve a two-year term on the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council as a council member and advocate. I also ran for county commissioner that same year. The primary election was Tuesday August 8, 2000. Even though I did not win, I acquired new friends and great contacts. Also during that time I founded a local nonprofit organization in Battle Creek, Michigan called "Transportation Impaired, Inc." "Transportation Impaired, Inc." was founded because I am deeply concerned about the lack of transportation for people with disabilities.

"Transportation Impaired, Inc." was a 24-hour, 7 days a week private paratransit service which provided door-todoor curb side transportation for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and also those with low income throughout the Calhoun county area.. I acted as president and CEO of the organization until May 29, 2002, at which time; it was closed due to lack of funding and volunteers. For my efforts, I was honored in April, 2002 with the 2001 "George" award given annually by the Battle Creek Enquirer for being an outstanding citizen and showing community leadership.

I am now a state advocate after having completed a training program through Michigan Partners in Policymaking. It was a program teaching effective advocacy and self-advocacy, leadership, and communication skills to work with legislators, state agencies, and others whose decisions and actions have an impact on the lives of persons with disabilities.

I also served on the Board of Directors for Michigan Protection and Advocacy. I was elected to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors. I acted in the capacity of overseeing programs and services pertaining to information and referral, technical assistance, rights protection and legal representation for persons with disabilities.

I was chosen to represent our state in the national Ms. Wheelchair America Competition in Des Moines, IA in, 2003 as an Independent Delegate and was Miss Wheelchair Michigan, 2003. As Independent Delegate, I had to form a committee to plan an annual state pageant to choose a titleholder to send to the national competition. I was not crowned Ms.

Wheelchair America nor did I hold any places in the running. I did however receive the "Spirit" award which is a high achievement award given due to the largest number of votes by the other contestants. A local TV show called "Disabilities Today" from the Detroit metro area came to Des Moines, Iowa and filmed the entire pageant as well as conducted interviews with myself and others. Also, I went through the State Coordinator training and was the State Coordinator for Ms. Wheelchair America, Inc. and operated the local Ms. Wheelchair Michigan organization for four years until I turned it over to Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2007, Shelly Loose from Kentwood, MI in September, 2007.

In January, 2010 I had the biggest scare of my life. I had been suffering with a chronic cough for over a year that had begun occurring only when I lay down at night. I kept complaining to my doctor about it, but he just said that it was a chronic sinus problem and prescribed nasal sprays. The coughing got worse and when I went in to see the doctor about it, he checked my oxygen level and it was down to a 70. The doctor told my mother and brother to drive me as fast as they could to the hospital.

It turned out that I had pneumonia. I was admitted into the hospital for overnight observation but I wound up on life support and a feeding tube for a month. Apparently according to my mother and brother, I was doing fine. I ate my dinner and was watching TV. I complained about a stomachache and one nurse gave me a shot for it.

About 10 minutes later another nurse came in and gave me another shot. My mother told the second nurse that the first nurse had already given me a shot. The nurse said that it was probably a different shot because the first nurse had not documented what shot had been previously given. Well, when the nurses came to check on me around 4:00 AM, they woke my mother up and told her that I was not responding. I couldn’t breathe on my own, I had to get a trach put in my throat, and I was on a ventilator. It was a long, hard road but through the grace of God and lots of prayer I made it. Since that time, I went through the graduation ceremony in May, 2010 and received a second master degree which is in Rehabilitation Counseling at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. I also passed the national certification exam and am now a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I also recently applied to become a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Michigan.

Well, earlier I had stated that the death of my father was one of the worst days of my life, but THE worst day of my life occurred on June 28, 2012. My mother died in our house on our living room floor. She had been diagnosed in 2008 with breast cancer and had undergone 48 treatments of radiation using a new treatment called Tomotherapy. After the 48 treatments, she was deemed cancer-free. She remained on her medication, Arimidex and had tests every 6 months to ensure that the cancer hadn’t returned. She had just received a good report in April, 2012. All of a sudden one day, she began having an uncontrollable cough and Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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shortness of breath. She dealt with it for a while until she had almost passed out on June 1, 2012. She asked my brother, Karlos to drive her to the emergency room at Beaumont hospital in Grosse Pointe, MI. Although it’s almost 30 miles from Romulus, MI where we live, my mother liked that particular hospital. Once she was at the hospital, they thought she might have had pneumonia or congestive heart failure. After several tests, they detected a 6-centimeter cancerous mass on her lungs and suspected that the cancer might have been spreading into her bones. Mom had Karmanos Cancer Center in Detroit, MI (the clinic who had been treating her breast cancer) to retest her as well as to give her additional testing. Unfortunately, Mom died a day before she was to find out her results. There had been a power outage that day and mom was using my oxygen concentrator whenever she had felt shortness of breath. Once the power had gone out, Mom began using a new portable oxygen concentrator that my brother, Karlos had gone 1 ½ hours to Battle Creek, MI to pick up from my friend’s medical supply company.

Mom had been so happy that I had arranged for her to get the oxygen equipment. She told me, “I’m so glad that God gave you to me”. I smiled and told her, “I’m so glad that God gave you to me. I don’t know where I would’ve been without you”. About an hour later, we sent Karlos to a restaurant down the road to get us some dinner. After that it was like God had put me in a trance, I never heard my brother =, Parrish and his wife from

Battle Creek ring the doorbell nor did I see my mother walk with a flashlight to the front door. But according to my brother, Mom answered the door, sat down in her reclining chair, and then collapsed. It was really strange because right after that, the power came back on and I came out of my trance and heard screaming. I was told to call 911 and that Mom wasn’t breathing. By that time Karlos had come back and was doing CPR on her.

When the ambulance came, Mom had a slight pulse.

The paramedics tried reviving her for over an hour on our living room floor but couldn’t. My best friend. My partner in life was gone.

I feel lost without my mother but I know that she would want me to go on in life and be happy and to achieve my dreams. With the assistance from my sister Sharon and my brother Karlos, I plan to do just that.

I’m telling everyone this story because I think that it can be a source of strength and hope for others to never give up. No matter what obstacles and life challenges might come your way. Never give up. ©2012 Monica Mazique Smith – All Rights Reserved.

Monica Mazique Smith was taken home to Glory in February, 2013. We bless the Lord for allowing us to be an avenue for her to share her story.

6th Annual I'm Every Woman Expo, "GENERATIONS" Saturday March 30, 2013 at Shriner's Silver Garden Event Center in Southfield, MI from 10:00am - 3:00pm.

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

www.VistaMaria.org

About Us Our Mission: We deliver innovative care, support, treatment and education to vulnerable youth so that they heal, believe in their worth, and build the skills needed to succeed.

Our Vision: We will ensure that vulnerable youth and families are supported, prepared and equipped to achieve lifelong success.

Our Core Values:     

Respect the sanctity of life, intrinsic dignity and inherent worth of all individuals Honor Vista Maria's spiritual foundation Empower our employees and consumers to achieve positive change Demonstrate compassion and genuine concern for others in all of our actions Celebrate the diverse cultural heritage and background of all our consumers and stakeholders

Philosophy of Care: Vista Maria's success is based on the philosophy of Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier, who founded the Sisters of the Good Shepherd - the community of women who founded Vista Maria. Her compassion, empathy, and interest in helping marginalized women and children evolved out of her own experience as a troubled adolescent.

This underlying spirituality guides the Sisters and lay staff at Vista Maria today. Our philosophy of care flows from a theology of love and our staff has fully incorporated this into their work. Every girl is treated as a unique individual - worthy of love based on just who she is. Therapy is designed around each girl's individual experiences and needs. This encompasses a variety of activities that address the physical, spiritual, intellectual, and recreational well being of the girls.

Our staff knows that healing takes place in connection with others. Thus, their goal is to create an environment in which healing can occur. Each girl is given love, affection, and someone to talk with (not at) them. This approach is holistic and life-giving.

Contact Info Telephone: 313.271.3050 Toll Free: 1.800.7.VISTA.6 Fax: 313-271-6250

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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SISTAH Teen Mentoring Initiative

Violence Against Girls Fact: In the U.S. a violent act is committed against a child, woman or man every 60 seconds.

That means that by the time you read this page one in three children will become a victim of an assault.

The emotions of fear, panic, terror, shame, guilt, avoidance, and powerlessness come to mind almost immediately for thousands of girls who are victims of assault. With more than 80,000 known cases of child sexual assault in the U.S. , a majority of sexual assaults against girls are committed by a personal contact, that is to say., in the home by a parent, step-parent, sibling or relative, or outside of the home by a friend, neighbor, teacher, care giver or stranger.

The pervasiveness of child sexual assault is growing at an alarming rate and more needs to be done to protect and treat vulnerable girls.

Vista Maria treats over 900 girls annually who are victims of abuse, neglect and trauma through its specialized trauma recovery, mental health and substance abuse programs. These concentrated programs were specifically designed to help girls, ages 11 to 17, to cope with the issues associated with abuse, neglect and exploitation. Girls come into our care with low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, an distorted view of sex and many have suicidal thoughts. Others show symptoms of depression, isolation, self-harming, self-medicating or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Our goal is to help girls regain a sense of self-esteem, reduce the feelings of shame about the abuse and begin the process of overcoming the trauma. Sexually abused girls need immediate professional evaluation and treatment to help reduce the devastating, emotional fears that may develop as adults.

Girls discover that they have value and that life has worth. Vista Maria becomes a place where girls can take their greatest fears and turn them into their greatest strengths.

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

FACT: Girls ages 12 to 24 are at the greatest risk for experiencing a sexual assault (U.S. Department of Justice 2001) Additional Statistics:    

20% of high school girls ages 14-18 report being hit, slapped, shoved or forced into sexual activity by a dating partner (Journal of the American Medical Association, 2001).

According to recent studies, violence against girls is a serious concern as it now affects 1 in 3 girls in the United States. The violence can in the form of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse. For girls, their perpetrator is more likely to be someone they know, feel close to or even love, including a boyfriend or family member.

Girls aged 16 to 19 are four times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault (National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) designed by the U.S. Department of Justice (2000).

The National College Women Sexual Victimization Study estimated that between 1 in 4 and 1 in 5 college women experience completed or attempted rape during their college years (Fisher 2000).

RESOURCES Therapists and Hotlines: Laura Sanders, LS, LMSW, ACSW, Trauma Therapist http://laura-sanders.com/therapy or contact the office at 734-662-3509 Parenting Matters, 800-531-5151 National Sexual Assault Hotline, (800) 656-HOPE

Additional Resources: Center for Disease Control, Sexual Assault Information http://www.cdc.gov/ViolencePrevention/sexualviolence/together/index.html Prevent-abuse-now.com http://www.prevent-abuse-now.com State of Michigan, Dating Violence Facts http://www.michigan.gov/datingviolence/0,1607,7-233-46553-169367--,00.html State of Michigan, Dating Violence Brochure http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mdch/Dating_Violence_brochure_2_175591_7.pdf State of Michigan, Safe Dating Information http://www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192-29941_30586_240-2893--,00.html Date Safe Project http://www.datesafeproject.org

Vista Maria | 20651 West Warren Avenue, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127 | 1.800.7.VISTA.6

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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WORD ON THE STREET –

Dating & Relationship Principles

The Dating Game: Tips for Single Moms Looking for Love The Circle of Moms

from

Single moms and the dating life. "Is there such a thing?" asks Circle of Moms member Rachel D. "I would love to know, how does it work? Because it seems like there is never a spare moment," she adds, voicing the collective lament of many single moms who say that after working all day and caring for the kids alone, they find themselves in a state of exhaustion — not exactly in the mood to go out and find romance.

to get back into a social network, which can be easier said than done, says Regina K. "It's important to start with social situations that might take you a little out of your comfort zone," she recommends. "Remember, just because we're single moms doesn't mean our lives have ended. In due time you'll know when it's OK." Other Circle of Moms members agree that you've got to go for what your heart desires and deserves.

Let's be real, how do you put your sexy on after a day when "let's snuggle" means cuddling a toddler to nap? Or is it possible to find the energy to date when kids rule the night shift as well because there's no "B team"/partner to offer a break from parenting duties that are 24/7?

3. Better Ways to Meet Someone Online dating is one popular resource some Circle of Moms members say leads to new love. "By going online, you can chat and go through the get-to-know-aguy [phase] without taking time away from your kids," says Bethany H. Other Circle of Moms suggest pursuing hobbies and participating in sports or other activities you enjoy as a way to meet new people — and potential dates. "After years of partying it up at bars and clubs I've settled down and enjoy building snow forts and kite flying," says Leigh S. She adds that it is through her hobbies that she has started meeting new people.

But, fret no more single moms. While dating is not easy, "it can be done," assures Stacy D. For single moms who are looking to add more love and romance into their lives, there are some successful strategies for playing the field, having fun, and making sure your child is at ease — if and when a new guy enters your life.

Consider these ideas from Circle of Moms members who have put themselves out there in the hopes of finding love again.

1. First, Decide if You Are Really Ready "Don't rush into anything," advises Circle of Moms member Star. J., and many moms share her hesitancy about jumping back into the dating game. "My daughter will be 18 months and I'm still not ready," says Leslie N. "I have yet to meet a real man that I could date, because most I have met are not willing to take care of another man's children." And Jean C., a mom of three children (ages 11, 14, and 18), who's been divorced for two years, echos, "I wonder all the time if I am ready for dating. But I do feel that I need to try to find someone that can treat me like a lady and do things with me. It's true that after you divorce it may take you three years to get over it and start dating."

2. Venture Outside Your Comfort Zone Part of transitioning to life as a single mom is watching the built-in social life that comes with being married — the world of coupled friends — vanish. The first step is

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Volunteering has been the ticket to meeting new guys for Charissa B. "Meeting guys at a bar is always a hit-ormiss kind of thing. What do you really have in common, you like to drink," she says. "I think the best thing is to pick something you love (for me it's snowboarding) and pursue it. Every winter I head up to my local ski resort and volunteer with their adaptive snowboarding program.

That's where I met my current boyfriend."

4. Start Small Life is not an episode of The Bachelorette, where dating means leaving your child home for six weeks to travel to an exotic locale to find a prospective mate. It's best to venture into the dating world slowly, Circle of Moms members agree. "Plan small evenings first or lunch dates," says Melissa D. 6. Trust It Will Happen When the Time is Right "It may take time, but you will meet someone, and even if you don't by trying to date, you might make some great male friends," advises Jennifer N. "All I know is that you don't know if you don't try," says Tamara B.

SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

"Singles & Sex: Guard Your Heart"

By Deaquelynn Williams

I'm a sucker for romance and I love all things romantic.

But as a single woman who's also a Christian I've learned to draw a line and separate romance and sexual fantasies. Why? Because sexual fantasies can often lead to sexual relationships if we allow them to, and I've had my share of giving my body to men only to be brokenhearted and lonely in the end. What glory did God receive in that? None.

Thank God for mind renewal because I now believe everything has its place and sex/sexiness should be reserved for marriage. Wearing revealing clothes, being seductive in your mannerisms, speaking provocatively, etc. should be reserved for your husband only. Doing so before marriage will cause you to attract many men and perhaps even the wrong man in your life.

There is nothing wrong with looking your best - wearing appropriate fitting clothes, smelling good, looking good and feeling good. We're supposed to look pretty and put our best foot forward when it comes to our appearances.

However, going over the top only to attract a man can/will send the wrong signal and he may not take you seriously once it's time for you to get to know one another. He may become only visually attracted to your body parts and not necessarily to you.

Single ladies, it is so important that we guard our bodies but also guard our hearts as to not become so insensitive to the Spirit of God that we fail to yield to His leading in our lives. God desires for us to abstain from sexual immorality. Yet, in an over-sexed society is that even possible? Yes, it is! And it is all rooted in guarding our hearts.

"Run from sexual immorality! 'Every sin a person can commit is outside the body.' On the contrary, the person who is sexually immoral sins against his own body." ~1 Corinthians 6:18, HCSB "Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life." ~Proverbs 4:23, HCSB

1. Guard your heart against all things sexy. - In today's society and media outlets, everything has a sexual undertone.

Movies, television shows, commercials, even food is now being called "sexy" or "food porn." Although there are some things we can't avoid altogether, we can control what's in our power. This means, don't watch certain TV shows where you know sex is involved. Stop listening to music that talks about sex. Stop looking at magazines and reading articles that teach you how to please your significant other in the bedroom.

2. Guard your heart against sexual fantasies. - This is one I struggled with guarding the most. As single women we can easily get cause up in sexual fantasies. Reading romance novels and watching romantic TV shows where two people who are in love with one another "make love" for the first time. It seems so right. Why not, they're in love right? Wrong! When we watch or read about such things, it causes us to indulge in sexual fantasies which ultimately leaves us open to mimicking what we read or see on television because we desire to have that same "magic" for ourselves. Then when the first person comes along and we begin to feel as close to him as the couple in the movie or book, we give in. Sexual fantasies lead to sexual escapades.

3. Guard your heart against ungodly advice from others. - I recall as a college student having a conversation with a friend who was in a relationship I really admired. She told me, "If you want to keep a boyfriend, you have to have sex with him." So, when I got a boyfriend just a few short months after that what did I do? I had sex with him. Did we stay together? No. And that began a terrible cycle in my life. Sex should only be reserved for marriage. I don't care how much you like or even love a guy or how committed you are to one another, you should love God more and save your body for the realms or marriage only. If you're not married and having sex, stop! Also, check the people you're getting advice from.

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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4. Guard your heart against over romanticizing reality. - Sometimes you know you are not in the best relationship. The guy treats you any kind of way and you accept it for the sake of having someone in your life. So when asked, you over romanticize your relationship or even the idea of being with someone while your reality is in shambles. Not only that, but you will do whatever it takes to keep that person in your life - even have sex. This only makes you accept less than God's best for you. So take your relationships for what they are worth. If you don't feel good about it or the person, then deal with the realty of it and move on.

And let me add something too... You have to get to the root of why you desire to be only sexually satisfied. For me, it was a combination of what my friend told me, fleshly desires due to being sexually molested for several years of my life PLUS a desire to feel validated, loved and wanted by the opposite sex. When I successfully dealt with all of these issues, then I was able to overcome the desire for being sexually fulfilled apart from marriage.

Virtuously Yours,

Deaquelynn~ ©2013 Deaquelynn Williams – All Rights Reserved.

Visit Deaquelynn online at Quelynn Inc.

I am so excited to bring back my weekly virtuous living call!

"I Am Virtuous Faith & Prayer Call" in which we will join together weekly as sister's in Christ to feast on the Word of God, and spend time in prayer every Thursday.

Time: 8:30 pm CST [6:30 PST, 7:30 MST, 9:30 EST] Dial-In: 1-218-862-7200 Access: 955086

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

After a long winter, it’s once again time to embrace the light, throw open windows to fresh air and bright birdsong, and dive into Scentsy’s new Spring/Summer 2013 Catalog! In its pages, you’ll find a variety of new warmers and fragrances, including the bold colors and whimsical patterns of the new Funhouse Collection and the clear, vivid scents of the new Simply Scentsy Collection. Browse the catalog today to explore these collections, along with all the ways Scentsy can help you say hello to sweet sunshine and delight in spring!

Introducing the Gallery Collection Fill your home with delicate shadows and light with Scentsy’s new Gallery Collection. Just pair the blank, glowing canvas of a Gallery Warmer with a magnetic Gallery frame of your choice to create your own work of art — on your warmer and your walls. Enjoy a sunny swirl with Rays, an elegant butterfly with Monarch, or a perching bird with Wren. Shop the collection today!

Luci Caston Go Shopping Host a Party Join My Team Tell a Friend Get My Newsletter

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VIRTUOSITY –

Marriage & Divorce Principles

Three Signs That Flirting Has Cross the Line Jillian M., a mom of two who is in a committed relationship, and who has been flirting with a co-worker, is wondering if that makes her a bad person. Most of her friends say that flirting with a co-worker “is a definite nono,” but Jillian feels that her flirtation is harmless.

There's "no touching or sexual advances whatsoever," she explains, and it's hard to end it because it satisfies her need for "a pick-me-up."

Jillian's situation is far from unique among moms. Many Circle of Moms members admit to occasional attractions and flirtations with friends, co-workers, or strangers, and many wonder how and where these innocent flirtations — whether their own or their significant other's, veer into dangerous territory for a couple in a committed relationship.

Circle of Moms members has offer three warning signs that an innocent flirtation could become a doorway to heartache and humiliation.

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1. Are You Disrespecting Your Partner?

Krista E. and Kelly L. are among many moms who agree that it’s normal for married people to have occasional crushes. Flirting is natural, they say, but it becomes unacceptable when done in secret, or when it causes discomfort: "I think it's perfectly fine as long as your husband knows about it and is okay with it,” Kelly explains, adding that it has to be done "with no other intentions."

Krista draws that line a little more strictly: "Does the activity honor your spouse?” she asks. “If not it shouldn’t go any further than that.”

2. Are You Living Online Instead of in Your Marriage?

Kylie H. feels that a little bit of flirting is fine at parties or social events, where everything is out in the open. It's Internet flirting that's dangerous, she says, because it transforms and intensifies quickly into the kind of connection that truly threatens a committed relationship: "an emotional affair." She would be livid, she says, if

SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

her husband was flirting or "having sexy chats with some chic on the net."

Cathy C. agrees that online flirting is "a recipe for disaster," and Jennie M. says it's more than clear when digital sparring has gone too far. Her husband reconnected with several old girlfriends through Facebook, spending more and more time online and eventually destroying several marriages. (She doesn't say whether hers was among them.)

For Tyanna H., who discovered that her partner was hanging out on dating sites, the line in the sand is felt in the gut: "If you have a feeling flirting has gone too far, it probably has," she wryly offers. Mel H. suggests a more concrete sign: when online flirting starts to involve cyber sex, dirty pictures, or flirting in chat rooms, something she indulged in herself until her partner discovered (and was hurt by) it.

3. Does Your Marriage Need Your Attention?

Finally, some moms, including Polly J., believe that "There is no such thing as innocent flirting." The goal

of flirting is to attract another person, she explains, and there's no place for that in a marriage.

It’s simply “disrespectful,” agrees Louise G.; a husband and wife should be flirting with each other rather than with other women and men. And a mom named Shauna feels that flirting is, simply, cheating: "You made a commitment to someone and flirting is making advances toward another man who is also in a relationship." She asks moms to consider not only how flirting can impact a spouse, but also how it might affect the kids.

Elaborating on that theme, Lindsay H. suggests that flirting crosses the line when it distracts from an underlying problem that is all too common for people with children and that can be quite serious: that your relationship with your significant other needs more of your energy. "I'd say if the desire is there to meet someone online and be flirting, the current relationship may need to be evaluated," she cautions.

To Read More Articles Like This: Visit Circle of Moms

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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"Countering Attacks on Our Marriages"

By Minister Enna A. Bachelor Ephesians 6:12-13 (KJV) 12

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Since the foundation of the world anything ordained by God has been attacked by the devil. The bonds of holy matrimony have not been spared from the attacks of the enemy. Time and time again we have seen relationships under fire and in some cases unable to withstand the relentless assaults brought about by the devil. The bible describes our adversary as a “roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 3:8) Make no mistake about it…the enemy is constantly seeking to destroy what God has established. In times like these we cannot tuck tail and run! We must equip ourselves and our relationships to do battle and be victorious. Our enemy is using weapons of mass destruction and we must remain vigilant and alert to the tactics and tricks being used against us. Its time to fight back! It’s time to “Counter the Attacks on Our Marriages.”

A covenant made between God and man is never meant to be broken. God is faithful in upholding His end of the agreement but we sometimes waiver in our ability to do the same. Marriage is work but it is worthy of the effort to honor our commitments to both God and our mate.

The enemy is well aware of our weaknesses but are we well aware of the power we possess to defeat him? Our theme scripture identifies the enemy and the remedy.

Isn’t that just like God to not only show us the problem but identify the solution!

Christ’s commandment to us found in John 13:34 is: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” God is love and we who demonstrate that love

reveal God’s power to others. The enemy knows the power of God manifested through love is the strongest force on earth. This is why he (the devil) seeks to sabotage loving relationships. What better way to undermine the advancing of God’s kingdom than to keep people from engaging in loving relationships?

This fight is not against man it is against the dark forces of evil at work in the spirit realm seeking to destroy what God has ordained. Our weapons have been identified in Ephesians 6:13-17. It’s up to us to put them on and use them. Take note that the only part of the body not mentioned is the back. There is no covering for it. Why, you might ask was there no thought to protecting the back. The answer to this question is really quite simple.

We are NEVER to turn our back on the enemy! Each weapon has a purpose and protects us and our relationships from being defeated. We can expect the attacks but if we put on the armor we are able to stand and be victorious! Is your relationship ready for battle?

When was the last time you inspected your armor? We are in for the fight of our lives but thank God the fight is fixed!

The Word of God is clear in James 4:7 that if we resist the devil he will flee! The power to both resist the devil and withstand his attacks is provided by God to those who submit to Him. It’s time to upgrade your armor and place additional tools in your spiritual arsenal which will allow you to be successful. Praying you strive to be fortified and edified so that you are successful in Countering the Attacks on Our Marriages! ©2013 Enna Bachelor – All Rights Reserved.

Minister Enna A. Bachelor is a working mother of three. She serves as Minister of Administration to Pastor Lemar A. Tabb of Lighthouse Community Church in Detroit, MI. Her passion is encouraging women.

Visit Minister Enna at www.facebook.com/enna.bachelor

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

#MoneyChat Weekly Digest ------------------------------------The Latest From TheMoneyChat.Com

Oh Baby! Baby Reserves, Maternity Leave & More!

Children are such a reward and a sweet gift welcomed into our lives. Preparing for them should be a time full of much love, great joy and it can even pose as a time of extreme busyness. In our desire to have the perfect nursery or to simply enjoy time away from work with our new infant, there are a few action steps we need to take as we anticipate our child’s grand arrival. read more...

Is Your Love …. and Money… Built to Last?

I know many couples take their vows seriously but after you say I DO, how do you become skilled at navigating the road of personal finance together? Life is special and meant to be shared. Invest quality time into your relationship and vow not to waste precious times and moment in discontentment with your spouse about money and trivial matters. read more...

The #MoneyChat Twitter ‘Talk’ Show Every 1st & 3rd Monday night I (@MoneyChatLIVE) or my featured guest discuss the financial or business topic of the evening. That’s right, you can ‘tune in’ to the biweeklyTwitter conversation #MoneyChat held from 8pm-9pm ET

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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A SISTAHS’ LIFESTYLE –

Life Coaching Principles

MEET LIFE COACH, KIMLE MITCHELL Positive S.I.S.T.E.R.S. | www.positivesisters.com | (313) 402-4997 Kimle Mitchell B.A . is a Life Coach and the founder of Positive S.I.S.T.E.R.S., an organization designed to empower women through Sisterhood. She has developed a 9-Step process for “Welcoming You Back Home” which provides women with guidance to discover their authentic self. She assists you by unveiling your choices in your life, so “you can heal and become real.” After a failed marriage and multiple layoffs, Kimle begin searching for opportunities to provide directions in her life. By attending various workshops and conferences on finances, relationships, and personal development, she was able to re-establish herself and soon realized that the only difference in her life from before was knowledge. As a result of her personal life changes, she committed herself to become an agent of change by empowering other women with tools and resources to become more knowledgeable so they can easily navigate through life's challenges toward their success.

For every action, there is a reaction…

Many times we live our lives thinking we are not impacting others, but we do much more than you may know. Even our thoughts have impact on others.

Negative feelings about ourselves can result in behavior and actions that have an adverse reaction on others.

Have you ever been around someone so negative, you felt drained just being in their presence? We are all emotionally connected in some form or fashion, so when we are not at our best, we impact our families, our work environment and the community.

Think of sports for example. When a lead player is off his or her game, the entire team has to step up and play in a different formation. We are all players in the game of life, and if we are not at our best, we are keeping our blessings from the world that others are waiting to experience.

Sometimes we simply forget that we are here to serve and share our blessings with others, and therefore

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should not conduct our behavior as if we are isolated in this world. We are all a gift to the world, and I invite you to shine and show up with that blessing.

Unleash your Soul's Essence and grace the world with your flavor, that uplifts and inspires us all to greatness.

You need not be concerned that others may abuse your gift, because you have a Divine guidance system within, namely your emotions, that you can trust to lead and protect you.

It is important to remember that we do impact everything. Below is another video with a nugget to use to feel assured as you show up and serve, that you can do so without concern of others abusing your blessings. It's only when we fail to trust and honor our emotions that we find ourselves getting stuck in the world. ©2013 Kimle Mitchell – All Rights Reserved.

SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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"Purpose – Passion _ Power"

By Cheranissa Roach & Valerie Priester

Purpose In this generation, the concept of life purpose has become a powerful theme. It is clear that most people realize we were placed here for a purpose. The million dollar question for most is, “what is my life purpose?”

We have come to believe and understand that everyone has a life purpose, that our purpose is within our reach, and that finding our purpose leads to a satisfying, significant life.

Often we use the word “destiny” interchangeably for purpose. When you think of destiny it should point to a Creator - otherwise where does this destiny we have built into us come from? We are made for something, life as we live it is actually a plan unfolding. The Creator of life planted the destiny (our plan) within us and it is our responsibility to discover our destiny or life purpose.

One of my favorite mantra’s is “once you know your purpose everything else is easy”. I truly believe that operating in your purpose breeds success. Think about it, some of the great leaders in the Bible were called for specific life purposes. Moses, to lead the children of Israel out of bondage in Egypt; Joseph, to take care of his family during the famine; Abraham, to be the father of many nations, and so on. The journey to each of these men discovering their life purpose was not always a pleasant one but a necessary one for sure.

If the million dollar question is, “what is my life purpose”, the two million dollar question is most likely “how do I discover/find my life purpose”. These questions have many answers but the best one of all is seek God’s purpose for your life and He will reveal it to you. When we don’t know our life purpose we often find ourselves struggling like fish out of water. As we are seeking God’s purpose for our lives there are some things we can do to increase our awareness of His voice. There

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are things happening around us every day that are significant but we may discharge them as small and irrelevant. Here are a few things to be mindful of as you walk out this journey.

1.

Listen to your dissatisfaction: We have been taught that dissatisfaction is a bad thing, and we should avoid it at all cost. But sometimes God may be using dissatisfaction to prompt us to move to the next level or go play in another sand box.

2.

Listen to others: Have you ever seen someone light up when they talk about something that they’re passionate about? Do you light up like that when you talk about something you’re passionate about? If so, others have told you that you may be called or gifted in this area that causes you to light up like a Christmas tree when you talk about it.

3.

Listen to your gifts: Consider your talents and gifts. Do you like math? Are you a strategic thinker? A great listener? Can you motivate others to action with your words? Are you skilled at building things? Make a list of all the things and activates that interest you in which you excel. Ask yourself, “What’s the one thing I do better than others?”

4.

Listen to your passions: What gets you fired up? What makes you angry? What makes you joyful?

Take note of when your emotions are moved; these times can be a sign of your God-given life purpose.

Passion Once you find your purpose, you can use passion to help you make your dreams come true. If purpose is the thing you want, passion gets you there. Passion helps you accomplish your goal. It is the fire that moves you

SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

forward. So what is passion, you ask listen to this story and decide for yourself.

Janice was an Accountant who was good with numbers all of her life. After High School, she went to College and majored in Accounting. After college, she worked at a local accounting office and was a good accountant. After a few years on the job, she began to turn in work with errors, came in late and just didn’t seem to be “with it”.

After seeing a Life Coach, she discovered that she was working in her purpose but not with passion. Her fire was gone and so was her work ethic, joy and happiness.

She discovered that while she was good at the work, her passion for the work was gone and she needed to find it.

Her Coach asked her why she got into this line of work.

She said to help people and companies keep track of money. She had always loved numbers and was good at the work but lately something was off. When her Coach asked her for more information about her career, Janice discovered that the conditions in her office and type of work had changed and so did her passion for the work.

No longer did she enjoy it as she had before. To help her get refocused, her Coach told her to write down what she liked best about her job and what gave her a smile.

That was easy she thought and wrote the list with no hesitation. When she looked at the list, she found that most of the things on the list were things she no longer did or wanted to do but did not. Her Coach then asked her if this is really what she wanted to do. That took a little longer but yes was her answer. Next they discussed what it would take to get her motivated again. Janice began to feel a sense of relief and an elation that she had not felt in a while. It was nice to rediscover that while she was good at the work, the changes had affected her passion for the work. After some more time with her Life Coach, Janice’s passion for the work returned and she was as efficient as ever. Here are some tips that will help you use and rediscover your passion

3. Ask yourself and answer honestly, do you really enjoy this position?

4. What will it take for you to become passionate again about this position?

These questions will allow you to understand where your passion is and how to use it for your good. If you cannot answer these questions on your own, follow Janice’s leading and get a Life Coach. They are trained to help people overcome the obstacles that stand in their way to success. They will hold you accountable and help you create a plan to help you find your purpose and live it with passion.

P o w er Once you know your purpose and are pursuing it with passion, you will have the power you need to be successful. Powerful is what we become when we marry our purpose with passion. So knowing your purpose and passion make you stronger and give you the power to achieve your dreams. It also gives you the power to pass it on and help others do the same.

This life is yours. Take the power to choose what you want to do and do it well. take the power to love what you want in life and love it honestly. Take the power to talk in the forest and be a part of nature. Take the power to control your own life. No one else can do it for you. Take the power to make your life happy.” ~ Susan Polis Schutz Operating in our power is something we do as coworkers with the Holy Spirit. When we are spirit led, spirit fed, and spirit conscience we can achieve the things God has predestinated for our lives. The true power is the Holy Spirit. ©2013 Cheranissa Roach and Valerie Priester – All Rights Reserved.

1. Write down the reason for doing something. For example, at work why did you choose this job?

2. What gives you a smile about the career you are in?

If you want to learn more about finding your true life-purpose, living it with passion, and walking in your true power check out Victorious Change Radio on TalkShoe Radio where hosts; Cheranissa Roach and Valerie Priester share powerful, life changing topics every month.

Join

Cheranissa & Valerie

rd

on TalkShoe Radio Every 3 Thursday of the month

8:00 - 9:00 pm EST | www.talkshoe.com/tc/124996 | Phone: (724) 444-7444* | Call ID: 124996 Cheranissa Roach is President and Chief Executive Officer of CDR Consulting, LLC. She is an International Author, Speaker and Coach. Visit Cheranissa at www.cdrconsultingllc.com Valerie Priester is President and Chief Executive Officer of Victorious Life Coaching, LLC. She conducts seminars and workshops that include Biblical principles to help women discover their God-given destiny and learn practical ways of living the victorious life. Visit Valerie at www.valeriepriester.com

Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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on the cover: sistah TALK FEATURE

God’s Cherisse Stephens is a celebrated author! Her book series entitled, "How To Be God's Cover-Girl" is blessing women and girls from all ages! This book series is designed to take you on a spiritual journey to discover who you REALLY are! God's CoverGirls are women and young ladies who celebrate themselves and others. They are proud to be covered by GOD and because of that, have the ability to COVER their family, friends and others

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SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

"Living in the Overflow of Being Covered"

Evangelist Cherisse Stephens is known as "The Voice You've Been Waiting For". She is a sought after Television Host, Evangelist, Prophetess and International Recording Artist. Evangelist Cherisse Stephens has the ability to connect with people from all walks of life and is known for the Glory of the Lord that rest on her life. Evangelist Cherisse Stephens is now in demand for Revivals, Conferences, Concerts, Hosting Television and so much more. She is currently one of the hosts for WATC TV Channel 57's flagship program called "Atlanta Live". She is also blessed to host Trinity Broadcasting Network's (TBN) "Praise the Lord" program. Evangelist Cherisse is not just a preacher, but a Worshipper as well! She has recorded two solo projects and is currently finishing her third CD with her seventeen year old son, Preston, as producer!

When Evangelist Cherisse Stephens is not making music and hosting television, she is busy hosting her own conferences which God has entrusted to her. She is the Founder and Conference Host for God's Cover-Girls Women's Conference and Spring Forth Into Destiny Family Conference. "God's Cover-Girls Women's Conference" is designed to bring women together, no matter what their journey or story and pour into them. It is our job to cover each other in the Kingdom and in turn God covers us with HIS blood, believes Evangelist Cherisse. The Spring Forth into Destiny Conference is designed for the ENTIRE family! It is designed to push you into your God Given Destiny and Purpose.

The most IMPORTANT role for Cherisse Stephens is that of being a wife and PROUD mother of two. She is blessed with a beautiful family and works hard at becoming the Ultimate God's Cover-Girl!

With all that Evangelist Cherisse has been blessed to set her hands to, she had a bit of time to share with SISTAH Talk, so we present to some and introduce to others,

Evangelist Cherisse Stephens

…

SISTAH Talk: Please tell us about Evangelist Cherisse Stephens.

Evangelist Cherisse: As a preacher's kid, I grew up learning how to serve in ministry. "I learned how to Pray,

Usher, Lead Praise & Worship, Train Choirs, and Preach in my youth", said Evangelist Stephens. "I believe God was preparing me THEN for my NOW. As I began to mature and grow in God, I desired to be used by him even greater".

SISTAH Talk: Please share your inspiration to start God’s Cover Girls.

Evangelist Cherisse: The movement, God’s CoverGirls was birthed out of the word of God. I was asked, as I am often asked to minister at a Women’s Conference. When I asked God what Great woman of God I should preach about, the Lord took her to the story of Rahab. In the book of Joshua, we discover the life of Rahab. Her profession is that of a prostitute. Her community has considered her an outcast and counts her out is society and in life. The story goes on to share how Rahab was visited by two spies who had come to nd scout out the land. In the 2 Chapter of Joshua, Rahab makes a deal with the spies. She agrees to Cover them if they would in turn Cover her and her family when they overtook the land. You see, Rahab did not have it all together, people looked at her and judged her, but GOD had a plan for her life! She was God’s Cover-Girl!

God told me to spread that message to women and young girls all around the world. That no matter what your journey, your story, your trial, your disappointment; God still has a PLAN for your life! Plans to prosper you and bring you to an expected end! We are all God’s Cover-Girls!

SISTAH Talk: Have there been any obstacles in achieving you’re your various accomplishments as a singer, author, etc.

Evangelist Cherisse: I am so blessed to wear many hats! God has given me very special gifts and I am so honored to be his servant! I am an Author, Television Host, Evangelist, Recording Artist, Mentor, Life Coach, Mother, Wife, Sister and Friend! I know, that’s a lot right? But I can only do these things because of the Grace of God. I like any other person who is striving to do the will of the Father have experienced obstacles that I have had to overcome. My journey has not always been easy. I have faced rejection and disappointment. People have counted me out and said Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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I’d never amount to much! But, GOD never counted me out, he counted me IN! I realized at an early age, that I could do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengthens me! I realized that No Weapon that is formed against me shall prosper. There will always be things that will come to frustrate your purpose and destiny. You just have to know if God called you to it, he will see you through it.

SISTAH Talk: So far, what would you say has been your greatest accomplishment, and how did you accomplish it.

Evangelist Cherisse: There are many things in life that I am most proud of. In my spiritual walk, my Greatest accomplishment is when I came to know the Lord as my personal savior. I gave my life to Christ at an early age and developed an intimate relationship with God. In my personal life, my Greatest accomplishment is being a wife and mother! I am blessed to have a family who loves me and encourages me to be the best I can be. My goal in life is to be the Proverbs 31 Woman – who in my opinion is the Ultimate God’s Cover-Girl! She is known for helping the needy and giving back to her community. She is an entrepreneur who is wealthy and full of wisdom. The Bible says that her children rise up and call her blessed and her husband praises her in the gates! Wow, what an accomplishment. That is who I am striving to be every day.

SISTAH Talk: Please share some motivation for women and teenage girls who are working to accomplish their dreams.

Evangelist Cherisse: I was blessed to author a book entitled; “How To Be God’s Cover-Girl”. This is a three book series written to inspire women and girls from all walks of life. It is a how to guide to becoming all you inspire to become. In the book, I talk about ways to find your purpose and walk in it! The first key to achieving your goals and accomplishing your dreams is to believe in YOURSELF. There will always be “haters” who try to discourage you from moving forward. I always say, let your haters be your motivators! Once you believe in yourself, you are ready to move forward. The next step would be to “write Your Vision” Once you write the vision, then God is ready to give you Provision! Where God guides, he will Provide. You must be willing to Believe, Write and Move! The Bible says that Faith without works is DEAD, being alone. You must move in Faith, knowing that God’s Got your back and that he will see you through! I am a living witness that Dreams become Reality!

SISTAH Talk: Please share some characteristics women and teens should have to be successful as they endeavor to pursue their dreams and goals.

Evangelist Cherisse: In my book, entitled How To Be God’s Cover-Girl, I have written what I call the “The Don’t List”. I know we all have our “To-Do List”. But

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there are some things that we as women should not do in order to be all that we are designed to be! Let me share just a couple of the nuggets from my list! The first piece of advice from the list is “Don’t Be Jealous” Jealousy is crueler than the grave and will leave you feeling miserable and sad. 1 Corinthians13:4, states that Love is not jealous or boastful or proud. We as women and girls, who aspire to be great, must make sure we operate in love. Another nugget from the Don’t List is this “Don’t Pretend”. I love this nugget. In order to be successful, we must learn to be TRUE to ourselves! Be who God created you to be! I often say that I am the Best Me. You can’t beat me being me! We all have gifts and talents. God has equipped you with a gift that belongs to you. Whatever your gift is, let it make room for you and it will bring you before great men and women! The list goes on to say some other very important things. But the last nugget I want to share from the list is in my opinion the most important. In order to be successful, “Don’t Forget To Pray”. It is essential that we communicate with God on a daily Basis! Prayer is the key to unlock every door that may be shut! It will heal your hurts, free you from rejection and move you forward into your assignment in the earth. The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to Pray without ceasing. No prayer-no power, little prayer-little power, Much Prayer-Much Power!

SISTAH Talk: Please share a word of empowerment with those women and teenage girls who may want to become a TV or Radio Show Host.

Evangelist Cherisse: You know, I am often asked the question, how did you become a TV and Radio Personality? I love sharing my story that gives GOD all the glory! Basically, I was in the right place at the right time. I have always been a servant of the Lord. I’m a PK – Preacher’s Kid, my mother was a Sunday School teacher and missionary. I grew up loving God and just being faithful. I am a firm believer that when you are faithful over another person’s work or vision – when it is your turn, God will be faithful to you. Whatever you want to become in life, know that it is attainable. It does not matter where you come from, what you have or do not have. I love the scripture that says; “Forgetting those things which are behind me, I press towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God which is in Christ Jesus”. That simply means this; your destiny is not detoured because of your history. Your history will become HIS-STORY when you give God all of your desires! Keep pressing, never give up- be determined to be HIS-STORY – God’s Story.

SISTAH Talk: Please share any upcoming projects that you are involved in.

Evangelist Cherisse: I am ever evolving into what God wants me to be. Just when I think I’ve figured it out, GOD will give me another assignment in the earth! I currently host the God’s Cover-Girls Women and Girls Conference, which is blessing woman all around the

SISTAH TALK | JANUARY – MARCH, 2013 | WWW.THESISTAHSMINISTRY.COM

world! We gather together to be empowered, inspired and delivered. I am also excited about our 1 Day Empowerment Sessions, Books & Brunch, Revivals and Crusades and our family conference entitled “Spring Forth Into Destiny”. I am really excited about my latest venture which is my New Release! Yes, I have new music coming out with my 18 year old son, Preston as Producer! Our first single, entitled Drama FREE will drop this March. Drama FREE is a song that will relate to anyone of any age, any ethnicity and any religion. Drama seems to be a word that is heard around the world, whether you are rich or poor. Drama is simply repeating a cycle of things that are unnecessary – it’s time to say “No More Drama”! Our music will be available soon on iTunes, Amazon.Com, CDBaby, CherisseStephens.Com and GodsCoverGirls.Com SISTAH Talk: How may you be contacted?

Evangelist Cherisse: You can connect with me several different ways! I love social media and use it as a vehicle to reach people that I may never see in person, but can connect with them through technology. Join me on the following social networks.

SISTAH Talk: Please provide any other information you would like to share with our readers.

Websites On Facebook: www.facebook.com/cherissestephens www.facebook.com/godscovergirls

Evangelist Cherisse: For Booking Purpose, I can be reached by email @ cherissestephens@hotmail.com.

For more information about our ministry, please visit our websites at:

Pages on Facebook: Cherisse Stephens Ministries God’s Cover-Girls How To Be God’s Cover-Girl Evangelist Cherisse Stephens

www.CherisseStephens.Com www.GodsCoverGirls.Com

Twitter: www.Twitter.com/singcherisse www.twitter.com/godscovergirl YouTube: www.youtube.com/evangcherisse09 Instagram: GodsCoverGirl – User Name Socialcam: Cherisse Stephens – User Name

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LIVING THE VICTORIOUS & BLESSED LIFE

A Word of Inspiration: "You Were Built to Go Through the Storm!"

By Monifa Robinson Groover Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31

One thing in this verse that catches my attention is the use of the word Eagle. Eagles are very unique birds. Compared to most birds:     

They are larger and more powerful.

They have a more direct and faster flight.

Their wings help reduce turbulence and allow them to be extremely effective in soaring through the sky.

They have very keen eyesight.

They are tolerant to cold temperatures because their bodies are protected by feathers lined with down.

Eagles are naturally built to be an overcomer and as a child of God so were you! ©2013 Monifa Robinson Groover – All Rights Reserved.

Monifa has devoted her life to helping others see the potential that lies within them. Having provided a number of services for diverse populations including but not limited to perpetrators of sexual crimes, individuals faced with substance abuse challenges and individuals in the criminal justice system; as well as having coached women entrepreneurs, her experience has taught her that neither position nor status dictate the level of pain and misfortune one may encounter. It was at this time she realized the call on her life was much greater.

Visit Monifa at www.withinyourreach.org/about-monifa.html#Km3UoLUY9Y0aLHZV.99

Remember to live your life "ON PURPOSE" P.O. Box 60393 | Savannah, GA 31420 | 404-271-2685 Office customerservice@withinyourreach.org www.withinyourreach.org

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The "How" of My Deliverance is Up to God

By Darlene Rigsby

In 2004 my Mother became suddenly ill. She was hospitalized three times but upon the third admittance, she never came home, she died in the ICU of St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston, Texas from unknown causes. Something had attacked her body and caused all of her organs to shut down. I believe it was a virus of some sort but the truth is we will never know and the doctors didn't know what caused it either.

Well through this whole ordeal, my Faith was activated and in full throttle. I was believing without a shadow of doubt that God would heal my Mother. My Faith was unshakable and unwavering because mind you, this was my Mother and I was believing God to do what only He could do for her. Well, as I stated, she died. So what about this unshakable and unwavering faith? Did my faith fail me? Did God fail me? Is Faith not really Faith at all? Have you ever had these questions.

Hebrews 11:1 speaks to faith being the substance of the things we hope for and the evidence of things we cannot yet see. I hoped for my mother’s healing amidst the evidence of her being very ill. Yet I still believed. Well I learned a valuable lesson about Faith, God and healing for that matter. When we operate in Faith, we have to allow God room to deliver as he chooses. My faith was believing for a deliverance that I wanted and a lot of times when we are believing God, we have already preconceived what the answer should look like, smell like and all of that. But having Faith in God does not

control the answer it simply trusts the answer giver to do what He knows is best.

The "How" of Deliverance cannot be our focus. It has to simply be the "Who" of our deliverance and the 'Who" is Jesus Christ our Lord. Now does this mean that I should not ask for what I desire? Of course not. You can ask the Father anything but the final answer is up to Him and sometimes I don't always get my answer in the manner I want. That is what happened with my Dear Mother. I wanted her healed and still in my life. I need her and this pain of not having her presence is awful. God did answer my prayer and my faith did not fail me. God delivers His children sometimes by simply taking them home. Absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. My mother actually received the greatest healing possible and that is to be delivered from the labor in this world because this world is not our home and now she lives with her Creator.

Now don't get me wrong, this revelation on how God sometimes heals; I didn't want to grasp it at first. But it still doesn't stop it from being the truth. Remember, the "How" of deliverance can come in different forms and it is not always how we dream it to be, so let the "Who" be our focus and simply trust God that whatever He allowed is what is best and all things will work out for my good.

Food for Thought. Be blessed. ©2013 Darlene R. Manor – All Rights Reserved.

Darlene Rigsby is an Evangelist/Inspirational Motivational Speaker/Singer/Songwriter who is giving back to God all the tools He has so richly given to her to be a blessing to the Kingdom of God; the body of Christ. To Learn more about Darlene and all of her Ministry endeavors, please visit her website at www.darlenesinspirationalministries.com Visit Darlene at www.facebook.com/darlene.r.manor, on Twitter @dlrigsbymanor or on YouTube at Darlene Rigsby Manor

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & ABUSE

"Getting Out and Moving On"

By Lisa Drew

My life consisted of looking for love in all the wrong places. One relationship I had was full of addiction and violence. I was beaten and treated like a dog and I thought I was in love and was also scared at the same time. Finally I got the nerve to leave him and what got me is that I still went back to help him and take him in, just to be treated the same way again. He had cut me, stabbed me, locked me in the house, tried to sell me as a prostitute – black, blue and naked.

Finally I had enough and left him permanently. I got myself an apartment. I kept giving him chances and expecting different results, but guess what… you know it did not happen! So I had to leave him and realized that I also had to forgive him, which took a long time, and I did… but not until after a few more marriages! I have been married three times and divorced twice. One marriage there was no domestic violence, but adultery instead.

The next one, domestic violence and drugs. All still looking to be loved and accepted by someone while never realizing I needed to learn to love myself and see myself how God sees me, fearfully and wonderfully made. I am not going to go into any more detail about the abuse because it was above XXX-rated graphic, but all I kept asking myself was, “What did I do to deserve to be treated like this?” Then I found Impact Ministries and that is where I found Jesus and started a relationship with Him. He started healing all my past pains and hurts and He took it all. Now I am married to a man

that started off the same way, but God transformed him and now he is going to church, developing his own relationship with the Father, is clean and loves me for me.

It has been a long road and I would not wish anyone to go through what I did. All I can say is before you start a relationship ask God if that is the one He chose for you, and if you are in an abusive relationship get out and go on with your life. Develop yourself, forgive yourself because it is not your fault and don’t allow your abuser to make you think it is. Allow God to make you whole again. Seek out people that will help you start over, and if you are married please get some counseling.

If it is a marriage that can be worked out, abuse aside, pray together – God can work it out. I found out for myself. What I was looking for was God and He wanted me to have an eternal and abundant life, free from abuse and pain. I also had to realized that He was molding me.

Now with all that I have been through in my life and in the areas God has brought me out of, I can now turn and help someone from going through this painful process.

Remember that YOU ARE SOMEBODY, and never forget that… you only fail when you quit trying! ©2013 Lisa Drew – All Rights Reserved.

E-Mail Lisa at Llisadrew@yahoo.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

10 Health Benefits of Rooibos Tea! Rooibos is my favorite tea! It has a lot of flavor and personally I prefer it over green tea! Naturally I was quite amazed to find that it has so many benefits and actually when it comes to antioxidant power it’s 50 times more powerful than green tea!

Rooibos aka Red Bush (pronounced roy-boss) is grown in the Western Cape Province. The leaves are actually green but turn red when oxidized.

Health Benefits of Rooibos Tea!

4. Rooibos tea is also strongly recommended for people suffering from irritability, headaches, disturbed sleeping patterns, insomnia, nervous tension, mild depression or hypertension.

5. Rooibos tea contains no caffeine and therefore has a soothing effect on the central nervous system. Rooibos tea is also low in tannin and therefore does not have a negative effect on the absorption of iron and proteins into the body.

6. Contains alpha hydroxy acid and zinc which is great for the skin. You can even apply it directly to the skin to help with acne, eczema and sunburn etc.

7. People with kidney stones can drink it because there’s no oxalic acid.

8. Rooibos tea has anti-spasmodic properties, thus relieving stomach cramps and colic in infants. Rooibos tea also relieves stomach and indigestive problems like nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach ulcers and constipation.

1. Rooibos tea supplements the daily amounts of calcium, manganese and especially fluoride, needed for the development of strong teeth and bones.

2. Rooibos tea, like green and black tea, has been found to be rich in anti-oxidants and flavonoids. In fact, Rooibos tea has been found to have as much as 50 times more SOD than Green Tea. It also has other antioxidants not found in other teas.

3. The effect of free radicals (a by-product of normal cell function) in the process of aging and declining of the immune system is limited by the anti-oxidants in Rooibos tea.

9. Rooibos tea is completely pure and natural, as it contains no additives, preservatives or colorants. It is a soothing drink for people on a calorie-restricted diet.

Rooibos tea is an all day drink which can be used as a pick-me-up in the morning, a superb thirstquencher during the day and at night it helps you to relax and sleep well.

10. Japanese scientists, such as Matatoshi Nakano also found Rooibos to be beneficial in the treatment of high blood pressure, diabetes, mellitus, atherosclerosis, allergic diseases, various dermatitis diseases, liver diseases and cataracts.

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A SISTAHS’ CLOSET

Which pieces call out to you? Which ones could you see yourself having fun with?

If you want one of her pieces, you have to move fast, as SHE DOES SELL OUT and does not re-release her pieces! FYI!

Are you loving the collection? Do you have the pleasure of owning a few pieces from her collection?

You can shop the full collection here, at Jibri’s etsy shop!

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SERVICES & BUSINESS NETWORK

Blueprint Schools Network, Inc. 61 Chapel Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02458 Phone (617) 243-9620 | Fax (617) 243-9630 info@blueprintschools.org

The Blueprint Fellows Program is a yearlong full-time academic tutoring program in urban schools across the country. The Program is part of a larger school reform effort designed to accelerate achievement in high need schools.

The Program is designed to expose students to the academic areas where they are struggling most.

Fellows instruct students daily in small groups in addition to their traditional math and literacy classes.

Currently, Fellows work with a number of grade levels in elementary, middle, and high schools across Blueprint’s partner schools. Partner schools are currently located in Houston, Texas and Denver, Colorado. In Houston, Blueprint is partnering with the Houston Independent School District (HISD) on what is called the Apollo 20 program. In Denver, Blueprint is partnering with Denver Public Schools (DPS) on the Denver Fellows Program in both turnaround and traditional schools.

As a Blueprint Fellow, you will have the opportunity to play a key role in this bold initiative to improve our nation’s schools. Your commitment to the program will be a vital in transforming public education, and has the potential to significantly alter the world of education reform.

Learn more about our Fellowship Programs by clicking here.

We're hiring! Click the button below to access our current 2012-2013 application in addition to our 20132014 application for the Blueprint Fellows program.

https://fellows-blueprintschools.icims.com/jobs/1038/job

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Blueprint Schools Network, Inc. | 61 Chapel Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02458 Phone (617) 243-9620 | Fax (617) 243-9630 | info@blueprintschools.org

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17344 West 12 Mile Rd. Suite 106, Southfield, MI 48076, www.RizelPhotography.com

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Sara’s House/Place is helping to break the cycle of homelessness one person at a time by providing women with the necessary resources and skills to strengthen and gain their independence.

These families become self-sufficient and contributors to our economic growth.

Sara’s House/Place will allow the women to reside for at least two years.

During their residency, the women will be given the opportunity to participate in the following counseling enrichment sessions:     

Money Management Health & Wellness Education (G.E.D.) Spiritual Enrichment Family Care

www.SarasHouse.org

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SOUL SISTAHS CAFÉ OF POETRY & SUGGESTED READING

Meet Carla Cannon Have you ever found yourself in a place where you knew what God’s word declared but you tend to see the opposite being manifested in your life? Maybe you are believing God for a new job, a greater life for your children or even a spouse. No matter what you stand in need of before it can be fully manifested in your life there is one thing you can never escape and that is…THE PROCESS. The Power of Waiting is a motivational book written by Author, Evangelist and Motivational Speaker, Carla cannon. In this book, Carla shares key principles on how to: ■ Understand Prophecy ■ Embrace Your Process ■ Discover Your Purpose ■ Learn How to Enjoy Being Single ■ Get Ready for Your Date With Your Destiny & more!

Carla also shares the art of patience and why it is vital in your life. This book is sure to bring about an understanding as it relates to your overall life and how to maintain your joy while waiting on God to fulfill every promise. Be assured that if God said it, He is going to fulfill it.

However, you must learn that there is POWER IN WAITING

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FROM THE CAFÉ’ ADMINISTRATOR

By FIRE…!

BY Wanda J. Burnside, Café’ Administrator

Are you at a point in your life where all you seem to have are disappointments, frustrations and suffering?

Does it seem like no matter how hard you try, things just don’t turn out the way that you feel they should? You prayed and prayed, but it seems like one thing after another just keeps happening to you.

You cried out to the Lord, “Why is this and that happening to me? I am seeking Your face Father! What am I to do? Things are so painful in my life. Lord, do you hear my cry? Do You care that I am going through one thing then another?”

God is there! He hears your cry. Listen, listen to what He has to say. Open your heart. Wait on Him. Yes, you are in the fire. Thus, saith the Lord: “I am perfecting you. I am making you into what you must be to succeed and survive in this life.

I am changing you. I am taking out all that is not pure and right. I want you to be holy.

I want you to be “wholly” and completely Mine. I want you to function and operate as I have made you to be.

You feel the heat of the fire. You are in the process of being changed. I have chosen you. I picked you up and brought you near the fire to be changed and purified of this world. I don’t want worldly ways in your life. I don’t want the world to come into your life and contaminate you. There must not be pollution in your spirit.

You hear the crackling of the fire. This is the trouble and the problems that seemed to just pop up in your life.

They are now being dealt with by the flames of My Holy fire. They are like wood. I will handle them.

It is now time to come closer to the fire. I have selected you. I picked you. I have carried you to this place. I have brought you closer.

You are getting closer to Me. I need you!

I want to use you. I have set you aside for My use and service. I have called you. Just like My children, the Israelites, who traveled by fire, you will too.

It will be light to your path and warmth to your heart.

I send the fire! I am the Master of the fire! I control its temperature. I set the gauge. I control it all.

You will not burn or be consumed. I need you to be perfected for My service.

I need a pure heart.

I want a humble spirit.

I must dwell in a clean temple.

You are a holy temple.

My Spirit will clean this temple!

I want your life in order.

I dwell in order!

I deserve praise for I will make your life free from bondage. The ropes of bondage will burn off by My fire.

Worship Me! “ ©2008 Wanda J. Burnside – All Rights Reserved.

Wanda J. Burnside is a contributing author and poet in three major nationally featured books: Wounded by Words, Too Soon to Say Goodbye and SistahFaith: Real Stories of Pain, Truth and Triumph! She is also the Founder and President of Write the Vision Ministries and Media Productions International. For more details, visit her bookstore. Click here Uniting Women & Teenage Girls to Impact Their Lives ™

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TOP TEN

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CHRISTIAN EVENTS & EVANGELISM (C.E.E.) NETWORK

RED CARPET RUNDOWN Host Kierra Sheard catches up with star performers and celeb guests!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH: http://www.bet.com/video/celebrationofgospel/2013/exclusives/red-carpet-rundown.html

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Coming SOON

…

Single Debut: The Great I Am Coming Early Spring, 2013 Album Debut: Path of Life – Coming Fall, 2013

Path of Life Music- Music ALWAYS takes you someplace- but God's music leads you on the Path to the true LIFE Twitter: @pathoflifeenter Facebook: @ RashidaJohnsonPathofLifeMusic

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SHE'S Empowered (Sisters Helping Encourage Sisters) presents the 4th Annual Women's Empowerment Conference Butterfly Bash Sunday, May 19, 2013 | 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Roberts Riverwalk Hotel, 1000 Riverplace Dr., Detroit MI 48207

SHE'S Empowered Honorees Gail Perry-Mason, Author/Speaker/Financial Expert Tracey McCaskill, Radio Personality with Mix 92.3 FM "Coco", Comedian and Radio Personality with WJLB FM 98 Jasmine Bailey, Poet/Activist

Fashion Show Designers International Bazaar Nneka Jackson, Founder of B-FLYY Sydney G. James, Artist Stephanie Whitfield, Founder of Salikas Handcrafted Jewelry

We are accepting donations at the venue during the program: Change to help Change the Dynamics of Lupus Awareness.

Sandra Epps established SHE'S Empowered (Sisters Helping Encourage Sisters) based on her pass struggles with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and the negative impact it had on her self esteem. The Women’s Empowerment Conference Butterfly Bash goal is to provide women with entertainment, inspiration and information from survivors and professionals, in addition, to create lupus awareness. May is the month of rebirth and Lupus Awareness Month. The butterfly symbolizes the rash that appears on the face of a lupus patient during a "flare up", The butterfly is also symbolic of freedom, hope, prosperity and transformation.

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Blessings Wayne State Students & Friends...

Bible Study is held on Tuesdays in the Student Center Building, Room 281 from 5:30pm-7:00pm.

Series: "The Benefits of GOD's Healing and Restoration in Our Lives

College Crew Staff (From Left to Right): Sheree Braswell - President / Amelia Allen - Vice President /Pastor Martina Wade-Hill - Spiritual Liason

Contact Us: Feel free to email us at GodsHouseCollegeCrew@gmail.com or call us at 313-444-8513. We would love to hear from you!

Social Networks: Don't forget to add us on FB: facebook.com/godshouse.collegecrew and/or follow us on Twitter @College_Crew.

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