The PurposeDriven Lady Magazine Issue 3 by Toks

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

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Early bird £300 pp pays in full

Full price £400pp from 1st October 2016

November/December 2016

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

Click on the link below for more information: www.totallifechanges.com/createyourrealitywithtoks Or Send me an email on info@thepurposedrivenlady.com Now and lets start on the journey to a healthy lifestyle or to earn extra income today.

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

Purpose Driven Lady Magazine is a movement in which busy working women are encouraged to take action to find their purpose, position and purpose so that they create their reality and live their best life.

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

Letter Editor from the

Allow me to be the first person to wish you a very Happy Christmas & Merry New Year.

As we approach the end of the year 2016, I am grateful to God for the blessing I have received. I stand amazed. Indeed the Lord has crowned my year with Fullness. I encourage you to consciously give thanks for the year 2016, for your family, your work/business, your health and all that you can remember be purposeful in your thanksgiving.

plan, principle and her perfect me time to be motivated. Should you have any questions and suggestions, please send them to info@ thepurposedrivenlady.com. I would love to hear your thoughts about the articles SO UNTIL NEXT ISSUE BE, BEAUTIFUL, BOLD & COURAGEOUS, REMEMBER YOU CAN BE ALL THAT YOU WERE CREATED TO BE.

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine is for the lady who wants to be all that she has been created to be, she is interested in being the best version of herself and knows that she is not in competition with anyone. She does not compare herself with anyone. If there are opportunities opening, where she can shine so brightly like a diamond, she wants to know about them. She is committed to her personal development and wants to be in the company of like-minded ladies, so she looks to Purpose Driven Lady Magazine for inspirational and informative articles on purposeful living as a woman, wife and mother that will support her development

Happy New Year in advance.

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine reader is brave, brilliant and benevolent. She is actively seeking opportunities to serve and impact her world. She is an intentional lady, a keen reader, and she is interested in living her best life.

Should you have any questions and suggestions, please send them to info@thepurposedrivenlady.com To living In Purpose, Omowunmi aka Toks

Reading each issue of The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine is essential because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s her

P.S: Share this magazine to your friends and family so that together we are creating our reality and living our best life NOW.

CONTENTS

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

How to Start A Food Business from Home.................................................................9 Who Am I......................................................12

The Question of Identity

The Importance of Praying Together.........................................................14 ‘They all joined together constantly in prayer’ (Acts 1:1)

Diary of a Purpose Driven Lady..................................................................17 with Olajumoke Badmus

Still Very True Be Afraid.....................18

by Tomike Ogunleye

Introduction to the five Pillars of Balance......................,....................................19 “Man is a spirit being, has a soul and lives in a body”.

Limitless.........................................................23 Free...................................................................25 by Victoria Wya

Maximising Singlehood.........................26 Enjoying your life as a Spinster – Part 2

The Love Race...........................................28 Don’t Give Up............................................34 Raising Children.......................................36 Family Influence

What Do You See.....................................40 Kindness............................................................41 An Essential Virtue In Marriage

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Featured Contributors

Jumoke Poku

MAGARET AKANNI

OLAJUMOKE BADMUS

Tomike Ogunleye

SHOLA SADE

Nike Duro-ISHOLA

Victory Wya

DEBY OKOH

Oluwadunsi Ogunsumi

Nwamaka Ekpecham

Olabisi Oluyele Adebiyi

Tayo Olumakin

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November/December 2016

How To Start a Food Business From Home

If you are a home cook with an amazing recipe or idea who feels frustrated about how to start a food business from home, I can probably guess how you are feeling right now:  You long for a step by step guide in starting your food business  You want to play a bigger game and be successful than you are right now  You feel that there is so much more inside of you that you want to share and express with the world

Perhaps the reason you want to start a new and exciting food business is because:

 You want to stop struggling and start striving  You want to move from frustration to fulfilment  You want to change your career and be your own boss Wouldn’t that be awesome? Yes I know that feeling and I am here to help. What if I told you that you can create the food business success you so desire and want right now? Picture it, high quality ingredient sourced, equipment & utensils check, recipe development formulated, process finalised, packaging completed, labelling check and the finished product simply eye catching mouth watering hmmm yum.

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That is where I come in; all you need is guidance and a personalised plan for you and your business starting from where you are. Starting a food business can be risky but when preparation meets plan, with determination and discipline, success is on the horizon. During the preparation stage, the key elements to a successful launch is  Knowing your customers  Knowing your potential challenge  Knowing your product

your customers like and will buy continuously and you will understand the food market in the process. There are some rules and regulation guiding selling food from home, which scares many home cooks from even exploring the possibility of starting a food business from home. There is no reason for these, with guidance and support it is fairly a simple process to get the license required for a home based food business. If you like to cook and like food master the 5A’s of how to start your homemade food from home in order to succeed.

These simple steps will help you create a brand

Approach: The way you think, your mindset

Approach must be sound. Starting any business especially a food business requires a certain type of mindset. It comes with enormous challenges and you have to prepare yourself for the hard work, determination & dedication it takes to succeed in it. As a food entrepreneur who wants to be successful the following questions must be answered truthfully to see if you fit the bill:

A’s

To Success... stamina to run a business? Now that you know you are a food entrepreneur, this mindset approach will keep you when tough times come.

 How well do I get along with different personalities?

1. Authority: Begin by researching your local authority regulations for home based food business. In general a license is required when preparing food for sale from your home. As long as you comply with the advice and guidance provided by the local authority, your home kitchen will be approved and licensed. Another option is to rent and use a licensed kitchen.

 Do I have the physical and emotional

2. Assurance: Ingredients required for

 Am I a self-starter?  Am I good at making decisions?

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preparing your home made food product should be of the finest quality. Quality assurance ensures that the right thing is done in the right way and using good quality ingredients during production is the first step. Look for manufacturers and companies that sell them and buy from them. It is cheaper to bulk buy so let the suppliers know, most cases they will set up an account for you and this has its rewards as well including bulk discount. This includes packaging as well. 3. Accounts: finances, how will you pay expenses before money starts coming into the business? As part of the plan it is important to create a cash flow system that will finance the business so that production, processing or purchasing is not stopped at any point in manufacturing. Possible channels include:  Your money  Bank  Grants  Family  Friends There is no right or wrong channel what is important is that you understand the contract in place with the financier and there is a plan in place for repayment. 4. Asking Price: the cost of your homemade food product should be competitive and be in the price bracket of similar product in its category. Choosing the right price for your food

product is one of the most challenging tasks because if the price is set too low, you may not cover all your costs and if the price is set too high, customers may choose your competitors’ products. The right balance is needed to get it right. Carrying out a survey on price is one of the strategies that can be used to get the RIGHT price. Yes, owning your skill as a home cook is definitely the first step to starting a food business; and there is no elimination process of all unknowns associated with how to start; however with preparation, planning and perseverance the chances of success is greatly improved. So I have question for you: isn’t it time you started your home food business? If you are ready to make the some changes and start earning money doing what you love let’s talk. Don’t do it alone, there is help available to accomplish more in less time for you. I will show you how to create a plan to reach your goals that works for you. Connect with us Fork and Spoon/Facebook Omowunmi – Toks Olunloyo/Facebook info@forkandspoonbook.com www.forkandspoonbook.com www.letstalkstartingafoodbusiness.blogspot. co.uk Omowunmi Olunloyo Author of the Forthcoming Book: Fork & Spoon: 7 Key Elements Of Food Product Development From Concept To Launch

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Who Am I? “

November/December 2016

The Question of Identity

…I know where I came from and where I am going… (John 8:14b NLT)

ho am I? This question of identity is a predominant issue that affects the world that we live in and is experienced by the young and old. It starts from a tender age to adolescence where the young adult tries to figure out life and understand the changes happening in their body, dealing with mood swings, and discovering purpose. Identity can be traced back to finding out your root; where you are from? I can tell you this much, you were made in the image and likeness of God (Gen 1:26), consequently you have God’s DNA within you which determine your characteristics, physically, mentally, physiologically, morally and spiritually. Therefore, your identity is in GOD, who created heaven and earth including every living thing that was made Genesis 1:11. God produced you after His own kind and likeness, you have all of God’s qualities and you own and have dominion over all things.

“

You are also who you are by your genes; you have the same DNA as your parent, which determines some of your characteristic. There is no question of identity if you know who your father is?

This was a threat to the fallen angel from the very beginning, in his shrewd way he set out to confuse man of who he is and all he owns. So he approached Eve with the aim to confuse and twist the truth around. He questioned the very word of God to trigger doubt and he successfully convinced the woman otherwise with a reward of whom she was already– “you will become just like God” (Gen 3: 5b); he did the same with our Lord Jesus and failed “if you are the son of God” (Matt 4:3). Your identity in Christ will always be challenged; it’s a threat to the enemy. When you know who you are, where you are from and where you are going, nothing can stop you.

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November/December 2016

You are the redeemed of the Lord, saved, victorious, ruler over all things, conqueror, powerful, achiever, full of peace and grace, you can do all things through Christ that strengthens you, you have sufficient grace in all things; you are blessed without any exception; hence the reason for the challenges which comes around from time to time.

Have you ever wondered why it took so long for you to embark on that vision from God? Can you remember the thoughts going through your mind? I remember questioning the reason God called me to do many things, I felt I didn’t have the ability, that I may fail, people will mock me, I’m not good enough, it must be a mistake or that I didn’t hear God right. In hindsight, these thoughts attacked who I am and my relationship with God. It undermined my ability to hear from God; in fact it denied my ability to hear God. Let me give you a hint, the challenges you sometimes get are a confirmation you are God’s. The enemy will attack your dream, vision or mission because he knows that it is bigger than you, it’s for the gain of the world. Noah was called perishing, he was believe his family Joseph is another

called to save his people from future peril of famine, what happened to him? His family did not believe him either; instead they planned to get rid of him for good. David was put at the backside of the farm because nobody believed in him, at the appointed time he became the king who conquered their enemy far and wide.

Who are you? And what has God called you to do? A teacher, counsellor, doctor, missionary, engineer, preacher, author, inventor, advocate... Don’t doubt His call or your ability to achieve because of the obstacles you are facing; don’t let it weigh you down. It’s all part of the plan, for when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow (James 1:3). It is written concerning you, that “you are gods and children of the most high” (Psalm 82:6), therefore you to save the world from have all it takes because of who you are, and mocked and ridiculed. I where you are from. doubted this mission too. perfect example; he was Jummy Poku

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November/December 2016

The Importance Of Praying Together

‘They all joined together constantly in prayer’ (Acts 1:1)

n the history of the church there has never been a revival that didn’t begin on the knees. Prayer is the one key to spiritual renewal in our own lives and that of the church. Together we are stronger than alone. Sometimes it’s just two or three that come together for prayer. But the power of prayer doesn’t depend on the size of the group.

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Reasons For Praying Together

1. God created people to be dependent on

one another: this is especially true in His church. The Bible says that the church is like a body where every individual part is dependent on the others. Your part is unique to you and a necessary part in the bigger picture. Whoso ever leads congregational prayer does not have a higher power than you, your prayer is as important as that of the leader. God has given you the authority and powers so don’t feel intimidated Romans 12: 4-8.

God created us to work together: each of us has a need for companionship; this could be physically, intellectually and spiritually. Even Adam could not fill the earth by himself and God saw the need and made him a helpmeet “Eve” Genesis 2:18. In the same way, we need one another to fulfill some things that God has called us to do. In praying together we sharpen ourselves Pro 27:17.

3. Praying together multiplies our efforts.

It strengthens us as a group and ignites us individually. The Bible shows that when people work together for a common

purpose, the result is more than the sum of their individual contributions. Praying together as a team multiples our productivity and success Leviticus 26:8. The successes (testimonies) we get encourage the team to keep going even in difficult times.

4. The Bible says that two are better than

one. Working as a team is far superior to working alone Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. In praying together we are being supportive. Praying together produces unity. Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity Psalms 133:1.

In praying together we help to bear one another’s burden. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ Gal 6:2.

6. In praying together God perform many

wonders and signs. And they devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles Acts 2:42.

Reasons Why Prayers Are Not Answered

1. Asking not according to God’s will: Daniel showed the right way to pray and get

results. First, he went to the bible and searched out the mind of God. Haven gotten clear direction and sure of God’s will, he came back to God to pray. Always use the scripture to guide your prayers 1John 5:14, Dan 9:3.

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2. Asking wrongly: “Ye ask and receive not

because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lust”. Make sure God’s word is your guide during prayer time.

Doubting God: It is not possible to receive answer in prayer when doubt is in place. How can you receive when you do not believe that the person you are asking from can meet it James 1:5-8.

Unforgiveness: When you refuse to forgive wrong done to you, it will hinder receiving answer to prayer Mark 11:25. Lack of unity is also a hindrance to prayer. Matthew 18:19 Treating your wife/husband in an inconsiderate manner 1Peter 3:7

5. Lack

of persistence: as soon as you pray, maintain an attitude of gratitude that God has heard you. Don’t start complaining or grumbling when you have not seen the

manifestation yet Luke 18:1.

6. Leaning on your own understanding: choosing to figure it yourself rather than trusting God is not the way to receive from God. Surrender all to God Pro 3:3.

7. Not asking in Jesus name: asking in

Jesus name opens the door and grants access to result John 14:13,14. All authority has been given to Jesus and with that name you will always get an answer.

8. Not abiding in Jesus (John 15:17) Spend

time in fellowship with God, He is longing to talk to you. It is important to live a lifestyle that is pleasing to God Ephesians 4 & 5. So I hope that you have read another perspective about the importance of praying together, the benefits and hindrances. Let’s make power available that is effectual in its working. God bless you.

Margaret Akanni

November/December 2016

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

Diary of a

Purpose Driven LADY with Olajumoke Badmus The twins usually pray in tongues as part of their bedtime routine, while 19-months old Eniara waits till they say ‘in Jesus name’ to echo her ‘Amen’. Yesterday, I asked Eniara to speak in tongues with us (for the 1st time), and the Lil’ madam’s voice was the loudest!! Either she had been waiting for the invitation, or she was happy to join her big sisters ‘talk the talk’!! Even after her sisters had stopped, she still had a few liners to say to God.

s a parent, I sometimes wonder how the state of the nation will be when my children are older.... Same epileptic services? Poorly maintained infrastructures? I definitely don’t want them to experience that! The economic situation might be in recession, but as God’s beloved, my home is a land of Goshen, where the light is shinning bright and clear! I don’t have any solution (yet) to the recession & other issues, but I am running my home by God’s principles and we are having good results!

While I can’t change the economy, I can change my home, while the politicians might be unreliable; I will ensure my children trust God. While the country I currently reside in might seem like Egypt undergoing the 10 plagues, my home will be the land of Goshen where nothing is missing, broken or lacking. As parents, let us shape the future by raising our children right. That way; one home at a time; our country will be right! So that, like Queen Esther, it will be said of our daughters for who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for

such a time as this - Esther 4:14. And our sons, greater than Daniel; will be multiple-folds wiser than their peers and be the helmsmen steering the wheels of the nation. As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord - Joshua 24:15b Train up a child in the way s/ he should go: and when s/he is old, s/he will not depart from it - Proverbs 22:6 Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders Isaiah 8:18a. In spite of all

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I rise and rise I decree and declare My path shines brighter and brighter Darkness is flabbergasted & overwhelmed by me Oh yes! It cannot comprehend me.... Yes be jittery Darkness be afraid, You had better be scared Be very afraid For the world awaits The unstoppable Manifestations of glory Unprecedented The outrageous kind The Jesus kind…

Still Very True Be Very Afraid by Tomike Ogunleye

Be extremely afraid For I’m not moved by Your tantrums Your devices Your lies My heart is stolen Sincerely don’t want it found I probably sound ridiculous but I’m walking in the miraculous Blood bought, set free, taking charge Being still, knowing that God is always by my side… Sweet Jesus Can I have a dance!

The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

Introduction

To The Five

Pillars of Balance

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Man is a spirit being, has a soul and lives in a bodyâ&#x20AC;?.

From this statement come the concept of balance, balanced living and the five pillars of balance. Like the fingers on each hand the five pillars represent core aspects of YOU, that if not taken care of can lead to an unfulfilled life, broken dreams and heartbreak. The five pillars of balance are the foundation of your very self and being. They are as follows:

1. Spiritual Your spiritual life essentially talks about your relationship with God and this affects how you see the world. It talks about your religion, spirituality and beliefs about things unseen. Your spiritual state and beliefs about it affect your worldview on many different levels. A healthy spiritual state will always lead you back to Christ, love and the golden rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated because there is a God watching over us and I am expected to do right by you.

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2. Emotional Your emotional well being is very important because potentially all of the issues related to your life, flow from your emotional state, good or bad. Emotions are good servants but tyrannical masters. It is the self-control and mastery of your emotions that will give you the upper hand in managing your thought life. You are not your feelings, your feelings come from you, and you have a lot more control over them that you think you do!

3. Mental Your mental and emotional well being are somewhat inter twined. Your thoughts and feelings sometimes go hand in hand and feed off of each other. It is important to do your best to keep yourself in a resourceful state of mind that serves God, serves you, and serves your purpose to the world. Read books. Disbelieve disempowering narratives. Become a thinker. Question everything. Do not feed negative thoughts and emotions. Send me an email: shola@ sholashade.com Read my blog sholashade.com Follow me on facebook: facebook.com/shola.shade Instagram: sholashade1 Twitter: @sholashade1

4. Physical If you do not take care of your body, it will not take care of you. Be sure to take care of the basics, like the right foods, rest, exercise and taking care of health problems, the moment they arise. There are temptations all around to succumb to an unhealthy lifestyle but with mental fortitude and a can-do attitude, you can resist them.

5. Relationship How you relate to others is important. How you relate to your spouse, your children, your parents your friends is important if you are going to have peace in your life. Do you know, for instance, who your real friends are? Do you know what an acquaintance is? Do you know the difference between the two? Who are your supporters? Who are your detractors? What relationships should you nurture? What relationships have passed their expiry date? Are you ready to live a balanced life? Are you ready for me to coach you through the process? Are you ready to balance your foundations and find meaning and purpose? Hang on for the ride of your life! Not ready for a coaching program but you need a strategy session? Go to https://balancedlivingcoach.acuityscheduling. com/ to book your pitch free strategy session

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November/December 2016

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 10:17 NKJV

November/December 20162016 September/October

The LadyMagazine Magazine The Purpose Purpose Driven Driven Lady

LIMITLESS

few years back I watched a movie titled ‘’Limitless’’ that featured an actor who was introduced to a drug that had the potency of taking the limits off people’s mind and exposing it to endless possibilities. The drug had a way of increasing the quotient of the brain and sharpening the thinking faculty to think far and beyond its used limits. The actor in the named movie took this particular drug and got hooked on it because of what it did to him. This reminds me of the recent Paralympic that took place in Rio this year, I was amazed at what the athletes were able to accomplish despite the disability on them. It was not so much that they were able to win medals; it was the fact that they are able to become athletes in spite of their circumstances. They were able to go through rigorous trainings that perhaps medical science had otherwise advised them against or maybe said were impossible to do and complete at such events and win medals. Amazing Right! Watching them during the season has left one statement ringing through in my mind, which is, ‘’I have no excuse’’ I have no excuse to be the best I can possibly be. I have no excuse to be all I was made to be; I have no excuse to be

all God wants me to be. Can I ask you a question? What is that issue, challenge or thing that you told yourself over and over again that you cannot do or perhaps someone or medical science has told you that it’s impossible. You were told people like you can’t do such things or can’t be such things. I am here to tell you that all things are possible to you when you believe. Yes, I’ll say it again all things are possible to the woman that believes. I have heard so many people say, ‘’I can’t do this or that’’, ‘‘it’s just not me’’. I was once like that I use to think and talk that way before I got a shift in perspective. You see, I have natural hair and my hair is relatively long. For a long time, I used to tell myself that I couldn’t comb my hair properly or wear my natural hair without extensions or weaves. Unbelievable! Yeah I know. That was the story of my natural hair until one day something happened to me, I got a shift in my mind and decided to give wearing my natural hair for a season a try. The only limit we have or placed on ourselves is the limits in our mind. A wise man once told me that as a man thinks in his heart so is he. You cannot rise above the limitations you put on your mind. To achieve the impossible and do the unthinkable the first place to start with

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is the mind. Take the limit off our mind. You can do this by having your perspective about life and about things changed. How can you change your perspective you ask? By changing the information, you receive and accept what changes your perspective, thereby forming your mindset. What are you constantly hearing? Is it that same bad news or report? You can change what you hear by being deliberate and intentional. If you are hanging around negative sources, you will only receive negative information. Surround yourself with people with the same mindset that you want to have or with a cando attitude. Saturate yourself with God’s word like, ‘’I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me’’ and ‘’by You I can run through a troop and by my God I can leap over a wall’’ (paraphrased) You may also have to go back to the school of learning, both formal and informal, if need be to unlearn, learn and relearn certain things. Don’t be afraid to learn again. There’s nobody too old or young to learn new things. I once heard a quote which says, ‘’you die when you stop learning’’.

Now back to my natural hair journey, I made a decision to go to school, yes, to educate myself via social media on how to wear natural hair. Voila! The results were remarkable, I was finally able to comb through my natural Afro hair and wear different hairstyles which received numerous comments. What has Limitless got to do with my natural hair you may ask? Everything, yes everything. As trivial as learning how to comb through natural hair is, to the very important things as getting that second degree or professional qualification, starting a new business, learning how to swim, drive or ride a bike, the principle stays the same: ‘Whatever you’ve labelled in your mind as impossible or not achievable will be your reality.’ Take the limit off your mind and dare to do the impossible, remember you have a God that’s more than able to help you through it. Surround yourself with the right information and people, go back to the school of learning if you need to and become ‘the best’ you were made to be. Nike Duro-Ishola

November/December 2016

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Free

by Victoria Wya

One day got asked the question What’s the cure for depression? I then reply to say, its God’s favour And then they stumble at my behaviour Then I start to tell a story Because we know we ought to reveal His glory Listen; trust the Lord in every situation Because only He knows it all before the revelation Through the good day or not so good day Strive daily to get on your knees and pray Because In Him one can overcome the world And behold that is why He’s called Lord of all God is Most High, Most Powerful and Most Loving The only Alpha and Omega So all hail to Him our maker Hope that explains my answer Cause I’ve got a God who I know has healed cancer So why should you be depressed Cause Jesus had already been oppressed Nailed on the cross for you and me That for all time we could be free So if the Son set us free, we are free indeed Now stand up and go strong Because In Jesus Christ you will never go wrong

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ing

Maximis

Singlehood Enjoying your life as a Spinster – Part 2

n issue 2 The Purpose Driven Lady Magazine; we began the series on maximizing your singlehood. Though this article is written with women in mind, it does cuts across both sexes. The first point hinged on your relationship with God. In today’s issue, we’ll look at 3 important points relevant to enjoying spinsterhood in continuation from part 1 Maximising Singlehood.2.

Discover yourself - Now is the time to know who you are, what you really like and love to do. Know your strengths and weaknesses, in doing so you will save yourself and your future spouse a whole lot of headache. How do you discover yourself, you may ask? God’s word is a mirror and will help you see yourself as you really are as you spend time reading it. What comes out of your heart is a reflection of who you are, Proverbs 23:7, Proverbs 27:19. Surround yourself with honest, godly friends who would not hesitate to tell you the truth always helps Proverbs 27:17, Proverbs 13:20a. Things worthy of discovery are your temperaments, likes and dislikes, hobbies, turn ons and offs, pet peeves, social attitudes and attributes, weaknesses and strengths just to mention a few.

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Once you know these, it will be very difficult for anyone to tell you who you are not! Then you create an avenue to attract the right fit for yourself because you know you. 3. Improve yourself - As a single lady, this is absolutely important. There are so many ways and things you can do to improve yourself, like taking that 1st or 2nd degree, doing that certification course, learning a new language, joining a club, getting involved in NGOs helping humanity. As a mother in waiting, now is the opportunity for you to actually spend the energy and time on yourself. It is also a good idea to learn homemaking skills while in waiting, homemaking skills like cooking basic meals, sewing: imagine being able to tack a button that falls off your husband’s shirt or stitch up a little tear on your daughter’s favorite top, Priceless! How about mundane things as knowing what colours to match up when decorating your home, you can start it up and finish with a professional if need be. Discover something new! Learn simple skills that will help you build your home. I’ve seen single ladies learn catering, baking, sewing and take these skills to their new homes after the wedding day. Now, not everyone loves these things, but I do believe if you learn the basics, it will go a long way to help beautify your marriage.

NOTE: YOU DON’T HAVE TO LOVE THESE THINGS! Just a knowledge of them would help make life easier for you when the need arises. Besides it’s scriptural, because as believers, we should be better each day Proverbs 4:18.

4. Save - Yes, money is one area where some singles miss it. They spend unreservedly, buying new clothes and shoes and items, as they desire. Money “matters” is one major factor that causes friction in some homes, and as women, you need to be able to show some level of prudence. No man wants to marry a wasteful woman and vice versa. Save some of your income for tomorrow. Save towards your wedding, or save towards an investment, or just plain save! Whatever you are saving for, it will help develop the habit and you will find it easy in marriage to encourage your husband to put aside something for the rainy day, for the children or special projects that may arise. Don’t spend all you have. A wise person saves Proverbs 10:5.

In total, I have shared 4 points with you, I hope you will digest it and begin to implement what speaks to you. In the next issue, I will be concluding the series on Maximising Singlehood. Till then Gods blessing always.

Deby Okoh

November/December 2016

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The

Love Race have been in love with Bobo for almost four years, we were committed to each other while people envied our relationship, we were not without our own low moments. I met Bobo while I was studying in the United Kingdom; he was also studying at that time.

I felt on top of the world when he proposed to me in his house, this was during one of the Easter breaks from school when I visited him for the first time how romantic! Although it wasn’t a shock, as he cannot keep a secret; he had mentioned going to H.Samuel (jewelry store) earlier that week and had asked for my ring size. I gave a confident ‘YES’. I was over the moon and back. I woke up as early as 4a.m the following morning and I stared at the platinum ring he

had proposed with – to be honest, it wasn’t quite my taste but if I don’t wear it, who will? I could as well admire it and smile over it happily, it is coming from my boo… I decided to have my morning devotion; I knelt down, sang with great enthusiasm and was about to start praying. At that time, I had not mastered how the Lord speaks to me but I sure know how to listen to Him. I heard him say, ‘Daughter, he is your will, not my will for you’. I cried and cried and cried. I started casting & binding to no avail. It must be Bobo o! The more I cried the more I heard clearly...ITS NOT BOBO!!! If you were in my shoes what will you do, my body tells me yes but my spirit says...NO. If not Bobo, who else? Oh dear, I was sad! “I will console you, you will know him

November/December 2016

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soon, just pray submitting to my will and you will be fine”, God said. I had lots of questions, God why? Why can’t it be bobo? Who is it then? Despite the word I heard, I left the instruction that was given to me and went ahead asking questions, it looked like God changed His mind, or He wasn’t speaking again or maybe I wasn’t hearing again. I thought I didn’t hear properly. I forgot to tell you earlier that I had involved my mom and my pastor about him before we started dating in 2011 and they said, ‘Bobo will make a good husband for you if only...well just be very careful of an unguided relationship’. I thought I knew what that meant, in my head, I gave it a meaning – so I made up my mind I will not have any form of intimacy with him until we were married, the other ones didn’t really matter since the authorities in my life had given the go-ahead I said to myself.

But something was just wrong; I wasn’t hearing

God speak on the issue again. I cried that morning to the extent that the tissue paper on the floor could almost make a rug. I checked my phone; I had missed Bobo’s calls” 20 times”. As I checked the message folder on my phone, I saw his message, ‘Sweetheart, I am missing you so dearly, what’s wrong with you? Why are you not taking my calls? I hope you are safe? I guess you are praying, please call me as soon as you read this message.’

My heart skipped a beat; my bobo has no clue what I am going through at the moment. Then my phone beeped again, this time it was a BBM notification from one of my favourite aunties, ‘Hello dear, how are you and Bobo? Trust good. I have this strong impression about a week ago that you are in the wrong relationship; the more I ignored it, the more it became more pressing in my heart; I will advice you to pray concerning your marital life. Whatever God tells you to do, just do it, He can’t be wrong.’ I shivered as I read through the message it was only a confirmation of what God had spoken to me regarding my marital life during my prayer time. It was at that point that I broke down the more. To be continued… Watch this space for the concluding part of The Love Race.

Oluwadunsi Ogunsumi

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November/December 2016

My Daily Confession Say this with me every day as you start your day to create your reality. Father, I thank you for another opportunity to come boldly before your throne to give thanks and praise to your holy name. I am a new creation in Christ Jesus, full of divine nature and supernatural abilities. I am born of God and I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God lives in me. I am redeemed from every curse by the blood of Jesus. I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. Jesus paid the price for my redemption so I stand fast in the liberty I have received as a child of God. I am no longer bound with the yoke of slavery. I am free because he who the Son sets free is free indeed. I have abundant life. Greater is He that lives in me than he that lives in the world. I am not confused in life because the Spirit of God directs my path. I have an anointing from the Holy One and I know all things. Today is my receiving day. I expect the favour of God everywhere I go. Every land I tread upon I possess. All things are working together for my good today. I have the blessing. Lines are falling to me in pleasant places. I bind every demon that wants to harass me today. I saturate every atmosphere I am in with the presence of God. This is the day that the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it. I am the redeemed of the Lord whatever I say is so, I have said it and it is so Now in Jesus Name. Compiled by Omowunmi Olunloyo

November/December 2016

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Create Your Reality

coach@thepurposedrivenlady.com

LET’S TALK CHALLENGE

November/December 2016

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ISSUE 2

THE RESULTS Congratulations to Christie Lawani who completed the challenge and won it. Details of your winnings will be sent within two weeks to you. Let me see how fast you are... THIS IS A small CHALLENGE 4 INTELLIGENT BRAINS: The name of a country is hiding in the consecutive letters within a sentence.

For example, FRANCE is hiding in, the sentence “The runners who lived at the top of the cliﬀ ran centuries ago”. (clifF RAN CEenturies).

Find the name of the country hiding in the consecutive letters within these sentences. 1.

You all must pay it back, or each of you will be in trouble.

Korea

Was Doctor Dolittle’s favorite animal a glib yak?

Libya

A true optimist will never let hope rush away.

Peru

How often can a daydream come true?

Canada

Is there a health spa in this hotel?

Spain

They are going in diametrically opposite directions.

India

Is the county fair a nice place to visit?

Iran

The foot with which I lead is my left one.

Chile

He owns a ranch in Arizona.

China

10. The foods we deny ourselves are usually tasty. Source: Shared as received.

Sweden

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November/December 2016

Don’t Give U

n 2001, I got married. The children didn’t start coming immediately. We began to try. I went through 8 IVFS and fell pregnant at the 8th attempt with my twin boys who came in February 2012. After they came, I tried the 9th time and it failed. The 10th attempt, I fell pregnant with my son who was born in October 2014. During my last treatment, the doctor told me that the embryo was not going to survive and that she was only doing the transfer for record purposes. However, she said, “It can only be God that will make this embryo to survive” That embryo turned out be my Mr Handsome. All treatments were done in the same hospital because I realised that God was

the one that had the final seal. It wasn’t the easiest journey but God kept his promise.

One of the things that kept me going was Ephesians 6:13, which say, “having done all to stand, stand”. Most people, who didn’t know me well, never knew that I didn’t have children, because I never let that define me. That didn’t mean my pillow was always dry. I wept a lot, dried them up and encouraged myself. God has not forsaken you; keep trusting Him and you will soon be celebrated. I will like to share what I did during this trying time of my life in the hopes that it will encourage you to hold on to your confession of faith.

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November/December 2016

1. I kept my mind focused on God and I stayed away from any form of negativity. Once I sensed a pity party especially among other ladies or couples who were still trusting to conceive, I stayed away from them. I needed to stay focused knowing that this too would pass. At a point, I took it to another level and I began buying baby clothes for other people’s children as well as for myself but I wasn’t buying for twins because I was hoping for one at least.

2. Ladies the waiting time is not the time to wear your sorrows around. It’s not the time to nag and suspect every move or misinterpret everything said to you. It’s the time to look 16 again. Get yourself busy serving the Lord, engage in productive activities. Learn a skill or trade perhaps. This is the time to cherish, respect and make your home as conducive as possible. This is not the time to speak negative words. Enjoy every moment with your spouse. Remember that it’s both of you first and that the children will come later. I know it can be challenging however do your best. 3. Finally you are not in competition with anyone. You are so unique and so is your timing with God. God knows how to reset your biological clock. Remember He has brought you this far and won’t leave you stranded.

The journey was not very rough because my husband was supportive. He took away everything that could pose as pressure away from me; he covered and protected him, his parents and family were also supportive during this phase of my life.

One thing I learnt in this process is that God is never late. Just do your bit and He will sort out the rest. Believe and you will receive if you faint not.

Nwamaka Ekpecham

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Raising Children –

Family Influences

I remember the first time my dad became a grandfather. He was really indulgent. My siblings and I were shocked because this man ruled his house worse than a military barracks! So when it came to seeing his grandson being disciplined in front of him, he came up with this “Oh c’mon, he’s still young” quote and I could see that my brother and his wife were not comfortable with the idea at all.

November/December 2016

There were many small or hurtful arguments, withdrawals from my dad which literally almost killed him and don’t even mention my mom. They eventually found a common place thankfully before my nephew became too attached to this ‘preferential treatment’.

I learned a few things that I would like to share here. I talked with my dad after a while and when he spoke, I understood why he behaved the way he did and speaking to my brother as well, I understood where he was coming from. So here we go…

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November/December 2016

1. NO FATHER FIGURE:

3. MOTHER IN LAW (LOVE):

If you have a father/father in law that is alive that didn’t have a father figure in his life, when he becomes a grandfather; the accomplishment of seeing his second generation is more than the accomplishment of being a father. This means, that he outlived his own father’s legacy. I know he didn’t birth his grandson per se, but he kinda did. So when you see your father/father in law splurge on his grandchildren, you know one of the reasons why, he is just seeing a legacy born that can never be erased.

My mother is an amazing woman. Strong, determined, focused, choleric, almost never forgets a wrongdoing, has a permanent book of remembrance in her mind it appears. Imagine having someone like that as a mother in law? Now, you cannot say you know your mother in law really well before you got married to her son; and because she is a woman like you, she seems to want to tell you how to raise your child since she raised your husband so well that you chose to spend the rest of your life with him. In my house when my mother was her usual self, my brother told her. If your mother is the same as mine, you need to let her know when she’s overstepping her boundaries, which brings me to me next point.

2. TRYING

TO DO RIGHT BY

YOU: If you grew up in a household like mine where the rules were so stringent, even a geek would find it choking. When that kind of strong, disciplined man becomes a grandfather, a balloon is pooped in his heart and while he may bark at his children, he would try to use his grandkids to show his children the other side of him that they probably never experienced. The clapback for this is that the children may harbor resentment because of the way they felt growing up, the good side is that it would give the father and children a bonding time where they get to know one another on another level

4. SET BOUNDARIES: If there are no boundaries, guidelines that are consciously laid down, grandparents would just go right in! However if you let them know from the start that this is what I want for my child, despite their persuasion, there is a great chance of success and less friction, as everyone is aware of what is expected. Don’t indulge what you don’t want because you might not be able to get them correct the cause when required. Human beings adapt

November/December 2016

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6. PRAY: This cannot be over emphasized. I know someone who has confessions concerning her relationship with her parents and her in-laws. She said, she wants a sweet relationship (who wouldn’t) and what better way than to use God’s word to create the life she desires for herself and the legacy she wants to birth for her generations unborn. I know all these points may not be applicable to you but I pray that the Holy Spirit would minister to your heart and help you make the right decision on this aspect of raising your children at such a time as this. to freedom quickly and become resilient to change.

5. BE A GOOD PARENT:

Shalom Olabisi Oluyele Adebiyi

The final thing I would say is that strive to be a really good parent. Be the best you can be for your children’s sake. As challenging as it can be a parent, you have been given the responsibility to nurture a generation. You have to be good, keep learning on the job, no style is the best style; no format is the best format. Your relationship with the Lord at this point would be a huge help and guide for you. Don’t give your in-laws or your parents’ reasons to doubt that you have the capacity to train up your children.

November/December 2016

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Let’s Talk

Challenge Issue 3

I LOVE YOU!

ne day a woman wanted to know how the husband would react if she left without telling him where she had gone. So she decided to write him a letter saying she is tired of him and didn’t want to live with him anymore and after writing she put the letter on the table in the bedroom and then hid under the bed. When the husband came back home, saw the letter and read it, he replied on the same paper and then began to sing and dance changing his clothes. He got his phone, dialed someone then said: “Hey babe, am just changing clothes then will join you, as for the other fool it has finally dawned on her that I was fooling around with her and has left. I was wrong, really wrong to have married her, I wish I had known you earlier. See you soon honey!” The husband walked out of the room and left.

In tears and very upset, the woman got up from under the bed and decided to go and read what the husband wrote on the letter. When she got the letter, it said: “I COULD see your feet under the bed; I didn’t make any phone call. I am going to buy bread. Stand up, stop your silly games and prepare me a meal.

I LOVE YOU. What is the morale of the story? What did you learn from it? What could she have done differently? What would you have done if it was you?

Please send your comments to info@ thepurposedrivenlady.com and I will share it in the next issue. Thank you. Source: Shared as received.

November/December 2016

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What Do You See

Jacob looked at Joseph and saw a good son!

in waiting!

His brothers looked at him and saw a useless dreamer!

Your garden-boy may be a President in waiting!

The travellers looked at Joseph and saw a slave!!

Remember David got the anointing of becoming a King while he was a young child herding sheep!

Potiphar looked at Joseph and saw a fine servant!!

Esther was a simple orphaned girl yet she was a Queen in waiting.

Potiphar’s wife looked at Joseph and saw a potential boyfriend! The prison officers saw in Joseph a prisoner!

IT DOESN’T MATTER HOW PEOPLE SEE YOU,

How wrong were all of them!

IT MATTERS HOW GOD SEES YOU.

God looked at Joseph and saw a Prime Minister of Egypt in waiting! Don’t be discouraged by what people see in you! Be encouraged by what God sees in You! Never underrate the person next to you because you don’t know what the Lord has deposited in that person! Your maid may be a Chief Executive Officer

No one can stop God’s plan for your life. I hope you know God has decided to take up your case as His top priority. He will bless you and be with you all the days of your life. See yourself as God sees you and live life on that belief.

John Daley Martin

November/December 2016

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KindnessAn Essential Virtue In Marriage

Bad experiences in life have a way of influencing your kindness towards people, which can sometimes be extended to your spouse as well. I don’t believe it is intentional; it just happens in a moment of weakness, frustration and overwhelm.

Kindness to one another is a key factor to have in a marriage. Most times it is overlooked, the act of being kind which is being tenderly affectionate towards one. It appears value is not been placed on it anymore. Kindness does help in building a strong friendship with your spouse, it helps to increase your love for one another and strengthen your marriage as a result. When two people are kind to each other, there is no stopping the growth of closeness, companionship and intimacy. Kindness is defined in the dictionary as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. According to the word of God in Galatians 5:22; Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law”. How you ask can I develop this and grow in it? Yielding yourself to the Spirit of God and allowing His Spirit to develop and mature in you will help you to bear the fruit of kindness. It is God’s nature to be kind or show kindness. Be thoughtful in all you do. Go about your business and relationship with the mindset of “I am going to nice today”, “I will show compassion today”, “I will give today”, “I will do good today” “I choose to be considerate”.

In the book of Ephesians 4:32, the word of God commands us to be kind. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you”. God encourages His people to be kind to one another, even enemies. Jesus spent His ministry searching for the weary, the sick, the poor and the lonely that He might show kindness towards them. No act of kindness is ever wasted. Acting kindly can change the giver and the receiver for good. Kindness pardons others weaknesses and faults. Being kind has a lot of benefits, I am sure you agree. Kindness is an essential virtue in a healthy and happy marriage. Rekindle your relationship with kindness afresh. Choose to be intentional. Let the fire of love begin to flow anew and enjoy the many benefits that comes with it. God bless you.

Tayo Olumakin

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November/December 2016

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For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Be removed and be cast into the sea,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Mark 11:23 NKJV

The Pu

urpose Driven Lady Magazine

November/December 2016

Purpose Driven Lady

3Ms

Music Movie Meditation

November/December 2016

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Movie

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November/December 2016

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Courageous Courageous is a 2011 American independent Christian drama film directed by Alex Kendrick and written by Kendrick with his brother Stephen Kendrick. It is the fourth film by Sherwood Pictures, the creators of Flywheel, Facing the Giants, and Fireproof. Filming in Albany, Georgia concluded in June 2010. The film was marketed by Sony’s Provident Films, which also marketed their previous films. The film was directed by Alex Kendrick, who co-wrote its screenplay with his brother Stephen Kendrick. Alex Kendrick also stars in the film, along with Ken Bevel, Kevin Downes and Ben Davies. About half of the cast and crew were volunteers from Sherwood Baptist Church, while the remainder were brought on through invitation-only auditions.

November/December 2016

The personal lives of these officers are observed: Mitchell adores his nine-year-old daughter, Emily, but is distant from his fifteenyear-old son, Dylan, because Mitchell doesn’t share Dylan’s interest in 5k runs. Hayes never knew his biological father, instead treating a neighbor as his father (even giving him Father’s Day cards annually), but would risk his life to save his three children; however, his teenage daughter Jade (Taylor Hutcherson), resents him because he has a strict policy about dating. Fuller is divorced, as were his parents, and has joint custody of his son. Thomson is young and single.

Javier Martinez (Robert Amaya), an immigrant struggling to provide for his family, is walking down an alley asking God what He wants him to do after being laid off when a construction company went over budget and Mitchell calls him over to help with his shed, thinking he is a different Javier that Mitchell’s friends said would help him. After paying him for the job, The film was produced with a budget of $2 Mitchell recommends him to a new full-time million, but on its opening weekend, it grossed job, where he is hired. $2 million in pre-sales alone and grossed $9.1 million total for the weekend. It grossed a total One day, Emily is killed by a drunk driver, of $35.2 million, over 17 times its budget. devastating Mitchell and his family. Following [1] The film opened to mixed reviews from his daughter’s death, Mitchell reads a lot about fatherhood in the Bible. He decides he critics. must be a better father and crafts a detailed “Resolution” to honor God in every aspect of his family. Mitchell, Hayes, Fuller, Thomson, and Plot Martinez join him in his resolution at a formal When his truck is stolen at a Gas Station, ceremony conducted by Hayes’s neighborhood Nathan Hayes chases it and manages to mentor, the man he thinks of as a father. As a apprehend the driver and reclaim the truck. result of the resolution, Mitchell and Fuller Though he is injured, he crawls back to the car, mend their relationships with their sons, Hayes and sees that his little baby boy in the back is with his daughter, and he also visits the grave of okay. When the police arrive, Adam Mitchell his biological father who he had never met and and Shane Fuller meet Hayes, discovering he is forgives him. Thomson reveals that he fathered a new deputy, having recently moved. a child in college and deserted the mother after

November/December 2016

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she refused to have an abortion. He writes the mother and seeks to mend their relationship and to see his child, after seeing that abandoning kids is what creates the crimes on the streets, and does not want that on her.

At a Father’s Day church service, the men present the Resolution and Mitchell urges the fathers in the congregation to be a Godly influence on their families. Mitchell runs in a 5K race with his son and Fuller’s son, Hayes biblically influences Derrick in prison, and Martinez’s manager offers him a promotion Thomson meets his daughter for the first time. on the condition that he falsify inventory documents. After being given a day to think about it, Martinez refuses, acknowledging it would be wrong. Impressed, his boss promotes Cast Martinez and raises his pay when he reveals • Alex Kendrick as Adam Mitchell that the condition was a test of Javier’s integrity, with him being the only one to pass after many • Ken Bevel as Nathan Hayes have been tested. Mitchell discovers that Fuller has been stealing drugs from police evidence to resell on the streets for the money. Mitchell decides he must honor his Resolution and report the corruption. He sets up a sting leading to Fuller’s arrest and imprisonment. Fuller explains his motives that he was doing it for his son, feeling that his yearly pay wasn’t enough to provide for him. Mitchell visits Fuller in jail where Fuller admits to his mistakes and asks Mitchell to look after his son. During a minor traffic stop, Hayes and Thomson unknowingly confront the armed leader of a gang they have been repeatedly encountering. One of the gang members is Derrick, who stops the gang leader from shooting Hayes with a shotgun. After an intense fallout, Deputy Hayes asks Derrick, a boy who wanted to date Jade with Hayes refusing it, what he’s doing with the gang, and he responds that he had no one else that cared about him.

•

Kevin Downes as Shane Fuller

•

Ben Davies (American actor) as David Thomson

•

Renee Jewell as Victoria Mitchell

•

Elanor Brown as Kayla Hayes

•

Taylor Hutcherson as Jade Hayes

•

Robert Amaya as Javier Martinez

•

Rusty Martin as Dylan Mitchell

•

Angelita Nelson as Carmen Martinez

•

Lauren Etchells as Emily Mitchell

•

Donald Howze as Derrick Freeman

•

Tony ‘T.C.’ Stallings as T.J.

•

Ed Litton as Pastor Rogers

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courageous_(film)

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November/December The 20 Pu

Music

016 urpose Driven Lady TheMagazine Purpose Driven Lady Magazine

I Smile by Kirk Franklin I dedicate this song to recession, Depression and unemployment This song’s for you Today’s a new day, but there is no sunshine Nothing but clouds, and it’s dark in my heart And it feels like a cold night Today’s a new day, where are my blue skies Where is the love and the joy that you promised me Tell me it’s alright (I’ll be honest with you) I almost gave up, but a power that I can’t explain Fell from heaven like a shower (When I think how much better I’m gonna be when this is over) I smile, even though I hurt see I smile I know God is working so I smile Even though I’ve been here for a while I smile, smile It’s so hard to look up when you been down Sure would hate to see you give up now You look so much better when you smile, so smile

November/December 2016 November/December 2016

Today’s a new day, but there is no sunshine Nothing but clouds and it’s dark in my heart And it feels like a cold night Today’s a new day, tell me where are my blue skies Where is the love and the joy that you promised me Tell me it’s alright (The truth is) I almost gave up, but a power that I can’t explain Fell from heaven like a shower now I smile, even though I hurt see I smile I know God is working so I smile Even though I’ve been here for a while I smile, smile It’s so hard to look up when you been down Sure would hate to see you give up now You look so much better when you smile Smile for me Can you just smile for me Smile for me Can you just smile for me Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you

November/December 2016

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Oh oh oh you look so much better when you

smile

(And while your waiting) Oh oh oh you look so much better when you (And while your praying) Oh oh oh you look so much better when you (Look in the mirror) Oh oh oh you look so much better when you (Always remember) You look so much better when you smile, come on

Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you Oh oh oh you look so much better when you

I almost gave up, but a power that I can’t explain Fell from heaven like a shower now I smile, even though I hurt see I smile I know God is working so I smile Even though I’ve been here for a while I smile, smile It’s so hard to look up when you been down Sure would hate to see you give up now You look so much better when you smile, so

Smile See I just want don’t you to be happy ‘Cause then you have to have something you haven’t been I want you to have joy ‘cause can’t nobody Take that away from you I see you smile

Lyrics taken from http://www.metrolyrics.com/ismile-lyrics-kirk-franklin.html

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November/December 2016

Meditation

November/December 2016

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Meditation

Christian Meditation Tips for Busy Mothers

otherhood is not easy, and at times it feels like the to-do-list just keeps on getting longer every single day – making it difficult for us to experience true joy and peace that can be found in God, our children as well as the Gospel. “A mother’s work is unending”, the old proverb goes. There is much joy to found in the process of raising our kids, but it is so often the case that this joy is laced with frustrations and exhaustion. The importance of the faith is never lost on Christian mothers, but they often struggle to set aside quality, quiet time to meditate about God and His Word. How can it be quiet, with four hyperactive kids in the house? With grocery shopping and countless household chores to do, soccer practice in the afternoon, etc, is it possible to still find God amidst all this craziness? The pressures of motherhood can make us feel that we have to put aside spiritual growth until a different season of life. But it shouldn’t be this way. The very challenges of motherhood are, in truth, God’s tools to draw us to the riches of His kingdom and to spur spiritual growth in our lives. Here are 8 Christian meditation tips that all busy mothers will find immensely helpful.

November/December 2016

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Slow down

While the Bible sits quietly on the shelves waiting to enrich us, the world bids us to remain busy. You have to enroll the kids for soccer, piano, basketball, tennis, gymnastics – the activities just keep increasing. After all, all the other mothers are doing it. We are advised to keep our diaries full and to perpetually stay on the move, otherwise your kids may miss out, and they won’t be cool. “Get busy and stay that way” is the unspoken mantra if our society. It’s what good’ mothers do. But the truth is that we need to slow down a bit. It is during the slow moments that we will be able to hear God’s “still small voice”. When we relax a bit and take a step away from the pressure cooker of life, we will able to come to God’s word and speak with Him through prayer. We will be re-energized after drinking from the living well – our Lord Jesus Christ. Make a conscious effort to create a session, however short, during which you can mediate in God’s word. Make it consistent throughout the week, and the rewards will come.

Audio Bible

Christian meditation is a powerful form of prayer in which a person reads and memorize passages of Scriptures from anywhere in the Bible. Since an uninterrupted slot of time is hard to come by for the busy mother, audio bibles can be a great way to keep listening God’s word while still carrying out chores in the house. Download some bible apps and listen to God’s word as you wash the dishes

or iron the clothes. Play the same chapter over and over again so that you will come away from listening with some precious remembrance.

Meditate in the mornings and evenings

Mornings and evenings have always been the traditional times of Christian meditation and prayer. Psalms 5:3 talks about rising early in the morning to pray and to “wait expectantly” for God. David was a master of devotion, and there are many instances recorded of how he loved spending time with God, despite the fact that he was a busy King! He says in Psalms 63:6 of how he thinks about God while in bed, as the “night watches”. Remember the famous story about Paul and Silas praying and singing at midnight in Acts 16:25? There are so many instances about people praying in the morning and evening faithfully recorded in Scriptures. You too can copy that. Mornings are usually calm and tranquil, and they bring renewal and freshness. So wake up a few minutes before everyone else and spend time with Jesus. The evenings may be a bit tough due to overwhelming fatigue, but you can dash for a few minutes to your prayer room before jumping to bed for a well-deserved rest. To be continued…

Source: http://www.thechristianmeditator.com/8-christianmeditation-tips-for-busy-mothers/

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November/December 20

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37