TA B L E O F
CONTENTS 3 l Letter From The Editor 4 l The Pledge 8 l The Bridge Builder Min. Elaine Montford 9 l The Financial Pharmacist Pastor Dawyna Lindsey 10 l In A Place of Ref irement Valari Knight Logan 12 l The Silent Addiction Evangelist Lesia Beale 13 l The Solomon Group Elder Desireé Bonner 16 l You Only Get One Chance Shana Thornton 18 l Falling Of The Wagon Sher Harris 21 l Diary Of A Bride To Be Shareta Berry 22 l Smores Pie Charlotte Ayers 24 Make Up Tips Lameka Kendrick 25 l Pebbles Dr. BJ 30 l The Voice Of Victory Dr. BJ Publisher/Executive Editor Dr. BJ Relefourd Design & Editorial Layout Ladie Grace Creative Services Pastor BJ Cover Photo-Photographer Melissa’s Memories Send comments to wopacts@women-of-power.org Published bi-annually. Subscriptions: $15.00 per year. Purchase online at www.women-of-power.org Ad rates: Full page-$40.00; 1/2 page-$25.00; 1/4 page-$15.00 Please visit theactsofwopmagazine.info for subscriptions and to view our entrusted contributors and staff.
AN ENTITY OF THE WOP NETWORK Listed in the National Directory of Magazines l Oxford Communications, New York, New York The Acts of Women of Power-480166910 © 2016 Women of Power, Inc. 2 | ACTS OF WOMEN OF POWER MAGAZINE
LETTER editor F ROM THE G re e ti n g s,
I am searching for a word which goes above and beyond the word excited! The year 2016 launched WOP and The WOP Network into another dimension. The favor we witnessed has humbled our team, and caused us to be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve each of you. The 2016 Tele-Revival reached more states and countries than ever before. The subscription and readership of TAOWOP has tripled! We are reaching more by serving more...working while it is yet day! We have already began preparing for your arrival. The theme-My Labor Is Your Lifeline, will speak to every office, every assignment, each job which has brought you to the place you are today. "Work while it is day, for when night comes, no man can work" St. John 9:2 This is a weekend, which shall revive your assignment. I hear REVIVAL! You will enter into an atmosphere of intensive care, where you will have around the clock care. Healing balms will be administered and healing SHALL take place. We pray for traveling mercies and arriving graces.
W al kin g in P ow er ,
Dr. BJ Relefourd
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the
PLEDGE As a Woman of Power I shall pray. As a Woman of Power I shall stay. Before the Lord and in His care Shall I find peace and comfort there. As a Woman of Power I shall be Ever humble and close to Thee. As a Woman of Power I must know That through Christ I shall grow. As a Woman of Power I shall be All that Christ wants me to be. WOP ® 4 | ACTS OF WOMEN OF POWER MAGAZINE
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THE BRIDGE
BUILDER THOSE BOOTS DON’T FIT ANY MORE Min. Elaine Montford-Lakeland, FL Charter Member/Hospitality Liaison
I remember when my friend’s son was preschool age, he loved to wear his cowboy boots – it didn’t matter what season it was, he would faithfully put them on. It didn’t even matter to him whether they were on the correct foot, as long as he had them on! He wore them with his dress suit, with jeans, shorts, or pajamas – it was all the same to him. If his parents insisted that he wear something else… the war began! He would pitch such a fit that they would eventually give in. Even after he outgrew them, he would still try to squeeze his feet into those boots. His parents were wise enough to not buy another pair. It took him a while, but as this boy matured, he recognized when they were on the wrong foot; and he eventually realized when they no longer fit who he had become. Of course he’s an adult now, and has long since shed those boots; but our memory of his fondness for them remains. Oddly enough, some saints are like my little friend. We’re still fretting, and trying to force ourselves into places/people/things that we’ve outgrown…things that no longer fit. But because our FATHER recognizes our growth, He’s trying to usher us to what awaits us at the next level…But with God’s help we will grow to know when...Those boots don't fit anymore.
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the financial
pharmacist Pastor Dawnya Lindsey
How much insurance do you have? What kind of insurance do you have? Are you wondering why you should have insurance if the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof? Won’t God provide my every need? Doesn’t the Holy Spirit guide my decisions so that I won’t experience severe destruction in my life? Personal insurance lessens the effects of events in life. It protects you, your family and your assets (things you own) against the financial impact of a catastrophic tragedy. It is a tool provided by God to help us while we are in this world. It delivers a reassurance that if something does happen, we will not be completely devastated. If you are independently wealthy, then you are self-insured and insurance is not a priority. The best insurance rates are obtained through group policies – employment or organizations. Shop around and compare prices. Here is some basic insurance information. Noah built an ark. The Egyptians stored food. Get covered!
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Refirement in a place of
Rev. Valari Knight Logan
part ii
After preaching a women’s conference I shared my story with a dear ministry friend who later taught me that before I consider the people, I must first put myself together. In his book, “Winning Ways for Wise Women,” Chime Gogo speaks of a woman’s outward appearance in “Package Yourself Right", I took this to mean inwardly as well. In my opinion it is impossible to carry on a facade or image for appearance sake only to return to brokenness within. When I return to God, not only does he see what is on the outside, but he considers the who person, namely, the heart. Taking a good account of myself, I knew I was broken and needed the Lord to bring restoration and wholeness. Have you ever “faked the funk” for others only to return home to fear, confusion and emptiness? Inwardly I knew this “life” was not living. I had to be ReFired into what God wanted for me. Jeremiah 29:11-14 speaks of the plans God has for you. God’s plans were not for me to wallow in thoughts of depression or inward fear, but rather in the redevelopment and reconstruction of one’s awareness in Christ. Psalm 51:10 speaks of being developed anew with the creation of a “clean heart and a right spirit within.” This is the ReFirement of God. With this renewing of the heart comes a cleansing and a refreshing and a rebuilding and restoration! I began to pray God’s direction and HIS will for my life. As God cleansed my heart, he also restored my desires and renewed my will to PRESS forward... PART THREE TO BE FEATURED IN THE SUMMER EDITION Connect With Pastor Val...
PastorValari@gmail.com / Facebook:Valari Knight Logan 11 | WINTER 2016 - 2017 EDITION
the silent addiction OF BEING OUT OF
balance Evangelist Lesia Beale
Activities such as work, school, relationships and life itself are all positives that can make our lives fulfilling, however they can also play a role in causing us to live lives Out Of Balance. Have you awakened one day to realize you are living a life....OUT OF BALANCE? You may wonder, “How did this happen?” When we find ourselves disconnected from God we run the risk of living out of balance. John 15:4 tells us “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me”. ARE YOU ABIDING? Are you spending time with God? Are you reading the word daily? How’s your prayer life? Are you connected with a place of worship, who holds you accountable? Who are your associates? Get into alignment & abide.... Stay in Balance! Shalom Evangelist Lesia Beale lives in Augusta, Georgia; married to Earle R Beale, they have 2 children and 4 grandchildren. She is the founder of Walk N Your Talk Ministries.
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The Solomon Group Q & A Elder Desireé H. Bonner What do you believe is the proper manner to address conflict in a blended family? I am a step-mother and a first lady. My decisions are not only scrutinized at home, but it also effects my assertion as a leader at church. #TiredinAL Believe it or not, conflict in any family makeup can be exceptionally difficult. The different parenting styles, various personalities, and personal expectations can make for a trying time; especially, when you are aware of how your actions (or inaction) is being scrutinized, as if under a microscope, by others. In a blended family, particularly, there were certain behaviors and rules of engagement already set in concrete; long before you arrived. So, just like the family unit is blended, so must be the approach to discipline and interaction. However, this is not something to be worked out with the step-children. It must be worked through one-on-one with your husband, so that the two of you operate as a united entity… or, as the Bible says, “as ONE”. Although I can empathize with how difficult it must be, the Word of God gives us guidance on the best way to handle ALL conflict: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18) Pray to the Father in the Secret Place, discuss your concerns in private with your husband, and walk in the Fruit of the Spirit in public. Then, watch the LORD perfect that which concerns you… (138:8a) Elder Desireé Harris-Bonner Managing Partner #Spiritual Midwife for Emerging Authors www.dhbonner.net
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on e c h an c e to succeed, right? You only get
Shana Thornton
What a loaded question! What a myth and farce! Many people promote the notion that there is only one lone shot at capturing the moment of opportunity. After all, the popular Latin aphorism carpe diem leads us to think that the chance is now or never. Motivational speakers often encourage us all to prepare for that special, once in a lifetime moment. People will often speak the words “you have one shot at the prize.” The mentioned phrases and statements can certainly be viewed as the ideal motivation someone may need to get ready to take action. I completely understand the premise behind the so called now or never attitude. Some years ago, my grandmother often shared nuggets with me that continue to resonate in these modern times. In her own way, she once told me that time can change perspectives. In other words, life experiences can impact your thoughts. The now or never attitude is perfect if you only plan to live for this very moment. However, we will live past the moment so we have to dispel the thought of this being our final moment of glory. If we miss the door of opportunity, it’s more than fine because I have always believed that more doors shall open. The beauty of second, third, and fourth chances is that we get to tweak our original action with more thought and consideration. So I wouldn’t advise anyone to “cry over spilled milk.” Sometimes we don’t get the dream job, the major business deal, or the championship. Yet tomorrow will still come and we have to keep pushing forward. Yes, there will be other opportunities for you to thrive. Trust me, there is another rainbow in the horizon just waiting to be seen. Our attitudes help dictate our vision which allows us to witness this world from a position of hope. Never give up. Never give in. Your greater is coming.
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falling off the
WAGON Sher Harris
OK, so you’ve been battling with your weight and told the Lord, no more sweets! A week later you are sitting at your kitchen table eating a quart of Blue Bell Butter Pecan ice cream! What do you do when you decide once and for all to take a stand over whatever bondage you may be battling in your life; to start living in victory over that bondage, and then. . . fall off the wagon? When you fall off the wagon, you feel like a fool, a failure. You are consumed with guilt and shame. You can’t believe after doing so good, you fell. You become disgusted with yourself for being so weak. On top of all those feelings and emotions, here comes the devil to pour salt in the fresh wound...saying, “it’s ok to give in to your desires. God really doesn’t expect you to be perfect…you know you aren’t really saved no how, you wouldn’t have sinned like that”. We have all been in bondage for something. Lying is as much of a bondage as drugs. Gossiping as homosexuality. Anger as much as alcohol. Being mean to people as much as pornography. The fact is, we all have had bondages in our lives. The Bible says we all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. So, what do we do to overcome this bump in the road, this weakness in the flesh?
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• Go to God and ask forgiveness ( 1 John 1:9 • Go back to living in victory over your bondage as you were before you fell • Get back into the Word everyday, studying and meditating on that Word.
This is where your faith has to take over and becomes so important. Even though your bondage is in the natural, what you’re really fighting is a spiritual battle. The Bible says that our battles are not against flesh and blood, but they are spiritual. That is why we have to pray, everyday, all throughout the day! To serve the Lord, we have to be connected to a local church in order to be fed and to fellowship with Believers. We can never take for granted that we have won the battle and are safe. The minute we stop doing the things necessary to keep our faith strong and to stay strong spiritually is when we will fail or “fall off the wagon.” Don’t waste precious time having a pity party and being depressed and discouraged. Sometimes we have to encourage ourselves. Don’t sit there and listen to Satan lie to you! God is a God of restoration and He wants to restore us today. In our strength, it’s only a matter of time before we fail. In His strength, we will not fail but live in Victory. God has a mighty work for us to do, so the quicker we get back to walking on the road of victory, the quicker we can get back to fulfilling our purpose in this life, which is to serve and glorify Him. Amen!!!
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diary of a
BRIDE TO BE part II Shareta Berry
“Mirror! Mirror! On The Wall Who’s The Fairest Of Them All?” Line from Disney’s movie Snow White. This was a line that the evil Queen said to the Mirror. See the Queen had an issue with her image, her beauty. She wanted to be the most beautiful woman to be looked upon. Snow White was carefree she was humble and had a heart of kindness. She knew she was beautiful inside and out. The Queen thought she was ugly and not did not understand her worth/value. She sought reassurance from a mirror (false god which is a graven image). See ladies God sees us as his daughters, beautiful inside and out. He looks past the hair, makeup, clothing, and even our painted nails, and looks at the beauty within our heart. I challenge all the women on today; young, old, single, and married to start seeing yourself as God does. See all the reassurance you need is understanding and knowing that you were already beautiful the day God created, fashioned, formed, and placed you in your mother’s womb. Repeat after me, I AM BEAUTIFUL! Speak it, believe it, and say it with a smile. I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I AM SO EXCITED FOR YOUR FUTURE.
Part 3 Coming Soon. © Prophetess Shareta Berry Prophetess Shareta Berry Women Self Sufficient Through Empowerment Supportive Services (http://infowenss.wixsite.com/wenss) Twitter/Periscope @prophetessberry 21 | WINTER 2016 - 2017 EDITION
smores PIE
Ingredients: 1-each Graham Cracker Pie Shell 1-Bag Mini Marshmallows 1-Bag Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar 6-each Graham Crackers (Crumbled) Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Pour bag of mini marshmallows into Graham Cracker pie shell. Crumble chocolate bars atop marshmallows. Bake until chocolate is melted l Approx-10 minutes Pour crumbled Graham Crackers atop cooling pie.
ser ve w ar m ! by Charlotte Ayers, Charter Member -Women of Power Rutledge, FL
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make up tips with Lameka Kendrick
Leaves are turning brown, temperatures are dropping, scarves and boots are being pulled from closets and sandals are put away! You know what that means? Fall is upon us! When I think of the fall season, I think of deep, rich colors that scream warmth! This season’s makeup trends are definitely mirroring that color scheme! Deep burgundies, luscious reds, rich oranges, velvety browns, and gorgeous taupe shades are making their rounds in makeup bags this season! As you know, I definitely believe in looking like a million bucks without spending a million bucks. This season, I am loving Milani Cosmetics Amore Matte Lip Creme! They retail for $7.99 and are available at retailers such as Walgreens, Walmart, www. milanicosmetics.com and select CVS stores. The shades that I have worn include, Obsession (a beautiful rich magenta), Fixation ( a gorgeous orange based red), and Covet (a warm, rich brown ). Now, for those who find matte lips a tad bit drying, Milani Cosmetics Color Statement lipsticks are also a favorite for rich, beautiful shades!
Let us not forget about our eyes! There is a palette that is great quality, and inexpensive! My two favorite things! Morphe 35O palette is a gorgeous palette of matte shades that can be worn on the lid, in the crease and to highlight the brow bone and inner corner of the eyes. To maximize the color payoff of ANY shadow, primer is key! I love the NYX Cosmetics Eye Shadow Primer is the shade skin tone. It extends the wear of any eyeshadow and enhances the longevity. Now, makeup is a wonderful enhancement but we must be sure to take care of the skin under it. Your makeup will only look as good as the skin under it. When weather changes, adjusting our skincare is a must. I am a firm believer in removing makeup, cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and then apply treatments as necessary. For quick, effective exfoliation, mix a little baking soda in with your cleanser and massage into skin.
So until next time, stay cute!
Lameka Kendrick, is a professional makeup artist with about 7 years of experience., she resides in the state of Florida.
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pebbles with DR. BJ
Pebbles From Pastor BJ... Moments are fleeting, therefore I have made a decision to use them wisely. Taking a moment to offer a smile, a hug, a prayer or a word of encouragement is so important. We may think these actions are small, however the impact made within the life of another is valuable. You are the answer to someone’s prayer, what an amazing gift you are! Dr. BJ, Contributors, and Staff Wish You a Very Merry Christmas & A Prosperous New Year
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victory The Voice Of
with DR. BJ
Throughout the year it has been a tremendous attack on our voices. The strategic plan was launched to silence our decrees and cause our declarations to be hushed. As we sip hot chocolate, and listen to the crackling of firewood, for a moment we can escape the deafening sounds of voices which tend to cause disturbance or annoyance. While watching traditional Christmas movies and singing carols which spark memories of childhood, family and joy, we have the chance to transcend our minds to a place of peace and tranquility. Fortunately, in our society the American Constitution in its 1st Amendment allows each of us freedom of speech. That freedom also gives us the ability to use or voices in a manner which may not be agreeable to others. This is why, we should each be thankful our voices have victory. We can speak into our lives a memory, which may evoke a smile. We can use our voice to calm not only ourselves but others as well. We can speak to the traditions of our families, our holiday traditions and even create new memories which can last a lifetime. I realize everyone may not agree with our voice of victory, however it is your decision to use your voice for goodwill toward mankind. By doing so, not only will your holiday season be more rewarding, you will witness what we all wish for, peace on earth.
holy holidays to all! - Dr. BJ
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ATTEMPTING
TO C O UNT
blessings
M O T H E R GE R A L D C . B AKE R WOP G ENERA L MEMBE R , G A
We often say that we are counting blessings, but that is sooo hard to do! GOD blesses us in so many ways! I look back over my life as I remember it, I have been blessed and showered with love. As a little girl, I was reared by my grandmother and mother in a small town in Florida, later we moved to the capitol city where I finished high school. I went north with my mother and attended nursing school, I also married to my high school classmate. There have been so many wonderful blessings and loving memories in my life, and to balance that, there have been some down times also. But through it all, I have learned to try to keep GOD's testimonies, and to seek Him with my whole heart, I tell you, there's nothing like serving our LORD, JESUS! In a few months, I will have lived to be eighty years old! I am grateful. Yes, I'm aware of my blessings, and no, I can't count them all! "O give thanks unto the LORD; for He is good: because His mercy endures forever." - Psalm 118:1 Dr. BJ Relefourd and the Acts of Women of Power staff wish Mother Gerald Baker birthday blessings on her July birthday! Mother Gerald Baker is in her 7th year as a contributor to TAOWOP Magazine! We love You!
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