Issue no. 8 4th Quarter Issue October 2020 Cover Design Emmanuel David Editorial Vicki L. Olton Editor-In-Chief
Contributors Stacey-Ann Garvey, Katie Axelson, Debbie Watson-Allen, Simone Stewart, Sarah Smith, Lynne Tugangui, Nancy Bishop, Niki Hardy, Melody Belotte, Donna Wayles, Stacey Coleman, Becky Antkowiak, Lisa Whittle, Alli Worthington, Vicki Olton
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IN THIS ISSUE 04 EDITOR'S NOTE 05 MEET OUR NEW COVER DESIGNER 07 TODAY IS YOUR PRISON BREAK 10 HEALING SCRIPTURES 11 GOD MOVES EVEN WHEN YOUR FAITH DOESN'T 17 MY ALMOST MIDNIGHT 28 REMAINING IN GOD THROUGH THE BATTLE OF ANXIETY 44 IS THERE PURPOSE IN PAIN? 49 WHEN GOD WAS ALL I HAD
CENTRE FEATURE NANCY BISHOP: FROM WHEELED TO HEALED pg. 32
GOD'S LOVE TOWARDS ME
54 GOD IN COVID_19 56 DITCH THE MASK
DEBBIE WATSON-ALLEN pg. 14
60 10 TIPS FOR DEVELOPING YOUR VOICE & MESSAGE 64 5 STEPS TO RAISING GODLY CHILDREN 65 IT STARTS WITH THE MIND
AUTHOR FEATURES
19 TANEISHA INGLETON 40 CRYSTAL DAYE 67 SIMONE STEWART
68 LEOSTONE MORRISON 70 LATESHA A. PARKES 71 SHERRY CAIN
CHASTE STYLE CLOTHED BY SARAH pg. 23
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NIKI HARDY
MORE THAN A SURVIVOR...SHE'S A THRIVER pg. 41
VICKI OLTON
Editor's Note
SPECIAL GIFTS included in this issue. Go ahead & claim them all!
Hi readers,
We celebrate that we have been able
Thanks to the Virtuous Entertainment
to bring you some great content that
TV Network; the home of clean
Once again a group of 15 amazing
will not only help you overcome, but
Christian entertainment, Divine
ladies has made this final issue for
will also cause you to soar on
Purpose Magazine is now accessible
2020 an awesome reality. Included
purpose for God.
to 550 million people around the
here are stories which demonstrate
world.
God’s great power over sickness and
A new addition to the magazine’s
disease in the body, spirit and soul.
content is “Prayers That Heal”. As you
Please head on over to their website
Indeed, God is a healer and you will
come across each of the prayers, may
and download the app.
surely see and experience this as you
healing come to every area of your
read. From stories of cancer survival,
life, in the name of Jesus.
to overcoming domestic abuse,
We give God mighty praise for His favor.
anxiety and much more, we
The team is also running over with
guarantee that your spirit will surely
excitement at this time because God
As you read, may God release great
be lifted and you will be inspired as
has surely blessed us as our message
healing over your entire life!
you read.
is truly touching the entire world.
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Meet our new Cover Designer, Emmanuel David Company Name: EmmyDave Grafix Country: Nigeria Fiverr Account: emmanueldavi729 Facebook: EDgrafix Instagram: @emmydavegrafix WhatsApp: +2347039685412 eMail: Emmydavegrafix4001@gmail.com
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Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
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Today Is Your Prison Break BY MINISTER STACEY-ANN GARVEY
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Today Is Your Prison Break Sometimes we have to experience some hard things in life in order to become the example of what it means to overcome.
PRAYERS THAT HEAL
Jesus, the ultimate overcomer, became the source of the gift of eternal life, but in order for us to receive that gift, He had to experience the pain and sorrow of death on the cross. In order to conquer something, you must first experience it. Sometimes you have to go through the fire to conquer the fire. You must have the behind-bars experience in order to become the fire that melts the iron bars.
Father, in the name of Jesus, today I break out of the
What God designed from the foundations of this earth for
You to forgive me if I have not learned the lessons that
your life, was for you to shift atmospheres, loose regions and set continents free with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and your
for the times I have complained and have not been as
story of how you were able to burst through the iron bars of your prison. The prison bars in many areas of our lives may include: depression and demonic oppression, fear, alcoholism, abusive relationships, lies, anger, rejection homosexuality, abortions, HIV AIDS, cancer, unforgiveness, and so much more!
prison bars which have held me bound in various areas of my life (name those areas). I thank You for the blood of Your son Jesus Christ through which I have been given the power over every prison situation. I ask You wanted to teach me through the pain. Forgive me strong as I should. Strengthen me Father and grant me the grace and power to push in prayer, reading Your Word and increasing in faith so that You can use me for Your glory and use the hard places to bring others to You. Today I declare and decree that I am more than a conqueror through You who gives me the strength. I am an overcomer! Today is my prison break so that Your purpose can be worked out in my life. In Jesus' mighty name I pray, AMEN!
But TODAY is a different day. Today is your prison break! Your mind will be renewed today and you will understand that even though you went through pain and hard situations, God’s plan is not for you to be bound by it, but for you to be His portal of deliverance and freedom in these end times.
WHO IS STACEY-ANN GARVEY?
It's time to tell the prison situation thank you for the inheritance. It’s time to be promoted from that place of bondage because purpose cannot die and furthermore, divine purpose cannot stay bound. Speak to your prison bars! Arise in the power of Jesus Christ and go forward, because...TODAY IS YOUR PRISON BREAK! Someone is waiting on your overcomer story.
Minister Stacy-Ann Garvey is a 38 year old author, speaker, coach, conference host and minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She is from the beautiful island of Jamaica and she gave her life to the Lord in 2011 while behind the walls of The Fort Augusta Adult Correctional Centre where she was serving a prison sentence. Her story is one of a mess that God turned into a miracle through her surrender and total dedication to the Holy Spirit for his Glory. Stacy-Ann has been chosen and qualified by God to tell others of Jesus Christ; the hope of His salvation that brought true transformation to her life. Her story is one that brings hope to those who have been afflicted and cast aside by society. Website: www.resurrectedgminist.wixsite.com/website Facebook: Resurrected Garvey Instagram: @Resurrectedgarvey
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God's Power to Heal Every Sickness & Disease
healing scriptures The Lord supports (will sustain, refresh and strengthen) me on my sickbed; He completely heals me from my illness. Psalm 41:3 No weapon [sickness is a weapon of the enemy] formed against me shall prosper… This is my heritage as a servant of the Lord…
I do not fear…for the Lord my God Himself fights for me. Deuteronomy 3:22
isaiah 54:17
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest Matthew 11:28
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GOD MOVES EVEN WHEN YOUR FAITH DOESN’T BY KATIE AXELSON
To say I was out of my league would be an understatement. There were four of us in the van: two senior leaders from two different organizations, a videographer, and me. Most of the week I knew my role: pick up the pieces and clean up behind the organizational leader I was assisting. I asked the questions he couldn’t, kept time and meeting notes, and ran all of the miscellaneous errands. I worked well alongside the leader I was traveling with; our giftings complemented each other. I could anticipate his needs, and he was aware of my comfort level. That morning during the outreach training, he leaned over and whispered to me, “You’re going to hate this but we’re going to split up.” “I do hate that. But I get it,” I whispered back. Panic was starting to boil in my spirit.
“I want to see as much as we can, so we’ll have to split up,” he said. I got it. I completely understood. But it didn’t sit well with my spirit. It wasn’t that I had separation anxiety losing my security blanket and safety covering. It was bigger than that. It felt like direct opposition to what God had told me months earlier—before this trip was even on the horizon. The Lord had told me this leader and I would do outreach together that summer, an especially unique word because we lived in different states on opposite sides of the country. So, I began to devise a plan where we could “accidentally” end up in the same group of four. None of my plans were feasible. God was going to have to fix this. Continued on pg. 12
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God Moves Even When Your Faith Doesn't cont'd
Then the founding leader of the partnering organization came up to us and said, “You two are with me.” I elbowed my leader and whispered in his ear, “Jesus loves me more.” By the time I ended up in the outreach van with these two phenomenal evangelists and a videographer, I almost wished we’d split up. Among four people, it’s hard to hide. Especially when one is already holding a video camera. We found someone we wanted to talk to and hung out her front yard—the leaders doing most of the talking and me just along for the ride. The one time I was asked a question, I was so caught off, I flubbed the standard Sunday School answer. We had a videographer. That moment has been documented forever. But the moment I’ve chosen to document forever is what I saw God do that day. We talked to five people that morning —three adults and two kids. All of them wanted to be prayed for. Well, except the one they asked me to pray for. Go figure. Since he wasn’t interested in prayer, I made it short and sweet. Halfway through my two-minute prayer I realized we didn’t ask him to move his injured neck before I prayed. Since we didn’t see it move before, I decided to let it go. There was no point in getting an “after” when we didn’t have a “before.” My team wasn’t so easily satisfied. They asked the man to move his neck. The dude whipped his head back and forth like he was a rockstar. 12| DIVINE PURPOSE MAGAZINE
I didn’t belong there, but I saw God heal that day. I took my faith of a mustard seed and planted it in God’s kingdom. Some days, that’s all it takes. I don’t know why sometimes God heals and other times it seems He doesn’t. I don’t know why God chose to heal the man who didn’t even want prayer for his neck but not the woman sitting next to him who needed surgery a month later. But I know He built my faith that day. It wasn’t a huge event with an audience. Just four people doing ministry together in a front yard one morning. Even in the simple moments, God still heals.
WHO IS KATIE AXELSON?
Katie Axelson is an author, speaker, and pastor who loves to link arms with women and help them draw closer to Jesus. She’s the host of Have Hope; Will Travel podcast where we celebrate differences and love people well. Website: www.KatieAxelson.com Instagram: @KatieAxelson
2 Timothy 2: 13
If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
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TELL OF HIS GOODNESS
She
GOD'S HEALING POWER TOWARDS ME
Testifies
by Debbie Watson-Allen
The period 2015 to 2016 was devastating for me. In 9 months, I lost my father to heart attack, a dear uncle to cancer and paternal grandmother to an extended sickness. All that could go wrong did go wrong and oh what a surprise I was in for as I attended my yearly mammogram appointment. It is routine for women over the age of forty to have an annual mammogram, and I had done it before and thought nothing of it. However, the call came in that another test was needed because the scan was not clear enough.
Many questions ran through my mind. “Why? I don't drink alcohol, I don't smoke, or use any other form of addictive drugs. Why do I even go to doctors when they are missing on examination?”
With my nursing knowledge, I thought, "Oh, it’s just some dense tissues.”
My faith was shaken. There was so much uncertainty. Now the biggest question was who would be the best person to share this news with... My husband was working out of town, and I did not want to alarm him. So the first option was to go to my pastor's wife; however, she was not at home, so I spoke to my pastor instead.
The result showed a suspicious area that required further investigation. This was followed by an ultrasound-guided biopsy. At the time I decided to go for the results alone so not to scare others. While sitting in the waiting room somehow I sensed that it was not going to be good but I did not want to embrace the feeling that I was having.
The packed emotions erupted into tears as I told him what was going on. Then there was great relief when the pastor's wife showed up. The intercessory prayer made on my behalf was powerful. I felt God's Spirit descending on me at that moment. He moved through my body and immediately I knew then that God had touched me.
The doctor entered the room, pulled up a chair, and did the usual greetings of asking me how I was doing..., but I just wanted him to get to the results. Then he gave the results...; it was breast cancer.
The doctors’ plan was to shrink the stage III invasive breast cancer with metastasis to the lymph nodes and then do surgery and radiation, BUT GOD... had other plans.
I immediately thought, "OK, let's just do surgery, chemo, whatever..., let’s just get it over with." I felt lost as I left the hospital. I was upset. I asked myself, “How could I have missed this for it to reach this far?”.
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I recalled going to the second appointment with the Oncologist, and after the examination, the Oncologist could not palpate the lump.
TELL OF HIS GOODNESS
I looked at her and said, "God has healed me." The doctor went back to her computer to see where the cancer was supposed to be. She returned and repeated the examination but still unable to feel any abnormality. At this time, I requested another MRI scan, but the doctor refused, because repeat scans were customarily done only after chemotherapy. After six rounds of chemotherapy, the repeated scans came back negative, but I had already known the result. I was adamant from the time I received those prayers to keep trusting God. Like the three Hebrew boys, even if God did not heal me, He is still God. I held on to the promise that with the stripes of Jesus we are healed (Isaiah 53: 3). I realized that during the time of my treatment, my faith grew. I was encouraging those who called to ask how I was doing. It was out of that realization that my book was birthed; Chosen For Battle, and written to inspire others in their faith. Resilience built by faith became my new norm. I was pushing the limits in my mind against every illfeeling that came over me. I remained resolute in my prayers that God was and still is the source of my strength and I stood my grounds on not having further treatment from the doctor who wanted me to do radiation, because I was healed.
WHO IS DEBBIE WATSON-ALLEN?
Debbie Watson-Allen is an author, mentor, evolving speaker, wife, and mother of two. In her early teenage years, she accepted Christ as her Savior. From the island of Jamaica she has served as Youth Leader, Assistant Missions Director, and Sunday School teacher over the years. Debbie holds a nursing degree and has served in Jamaica for fourteen years. She now lives in and continues working in the nursing field. Facebook: AuthorDWAllen Instagram: @dwatsonallen
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TELL OF HIS GOODNESS
She
MY ALMOST MIDNIGHT
Testifies
by Simone Stewart
It was March 2018 when I saw the WhatsApp message from my doctor’s office assistant which said, “Your test results are back and the doctor wants you to come into the office today.” I was sitting before the doctor. She was normal in her approach and told me that the results were good but one of the cancer screens was higher than normal. She asked a few questions and then proceeded to tell me that she will conduct an ultrasound. She indicated that repeat blood works would be done in three months and depending on what ultrasound showed there may be need for surgery. I got home and had a conversation with my husband, but it wasn’t until I spoke with my best friend, Arlene, that I recognized the magnitude of the problem. I asked, “There are cancer cells or tumors present, could this be real?” So the surgery date was set for April 13th 2018 at 7:00 a.m. But on April 8th I was invited to the altar at the church to pray. As I prayed, the anointing was so rich. I remember seeing a ball of fire rolling up the aisle towards the altar and as it approached, it hit me. I heard God speak so loudly as His anointing overflowed me. He said, "“Do not doubt God.” “Do you think I would have brought you this far to leave you?”
On April 12th, 2018, I was admitted to the Andrews Hospital and God’s Word reminded me that night that: He didn’t bring me this far to leave me and it is well. He didn’t create me to worry; He didn’t create me to fear. I must surrender all to Him withholding nothing. He is my strength; a strength like no other that reaches to me. I rested on the confidence of 1 John 5: 14–15: “This is the confidence we have in God, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us and if we know that he heareth us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desire of him.” The surgery happened as scheduled with both doctors conducting the process—doctors who gratefully were both Christians. It was even told that while being operated on, there was abnormal bleeding and the doctor did the best she could, which was to plead the blood of Jesus. In the end, a hysterectomy was conducted because a dermoid cyst had taken over the one ovary I had left. To God be the glory, I can report that the results came back; CANCER FREE!
WHO IS SIMONE STEWART?
In that very service, we had a visiting pastor’s wife who went up to share her experience that culminated in two words: WRONG BODY! God told me, “I need the real you, just bare it all.” At that moment, I dared to believe God for great things.
Simone Stewart is the author of Uniquely ME, the Memoir and motivations of one woman, who dares to balance many hats. She also is the visionary behind her woman’s television talk show entitled Uniquely Me with Simone Stewart and the resident devotional blogger over at God's Daily Portion. Website: www.godsdailyportion.com Facebook: Simone Stew Instagram: @Godsdailyportiondevotional
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PRAYERS THAT HEAL
HEALING IN THE BODY
HEALING IN THE EMOTIONS
Father, in the name of Jesus, I declare Your healing virtue in every area of
Father, in the name of Jesus, I ask for Your healing anointing to flow
my body, spirit and soul. I declare Your word over my life that with every
through my entire emotions. I place my emotions in Your hands and I
stripe that was place on of Jesus' back, I am healed today. I declare it and
declare that I am filled with the fruit of the Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray,
I walk in it. In Jesus' mighty name, AMEN!
AMEN!
Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank You for the blood of Your Son. I
Father, I bring my mind to You today. I cover my thoughts under the
proclaim the power of the blood of Jesus over every area of my life, my
blood of Jesus Christ. Fill my thoughts with Your love and allow my mind
family and everything that I come into contact with. Because of Your
to be the mind which was in Jesus Christ. I command every evil thought
power, no sickness shall come near me nor my household. I declare and
to be subject to the word of God in the name of Jesus, AMEN!
decree in the name of Jesus that every plan of the enemy to keep me bounded in any area of my life is cancelled, in the powerful name of
Father, in the name of Jesus, I release myself from every spirit of anger
Jesus, AMEN!
because God has not given me this type of spirit. I ask that You forgive me for any time that I have allowed anger to take over my emotions
Father, in the name of Jesus , pour Your Spirit of healing upon me at this
and my actions and I ask now that You fill me with your peace. Let the
time. Heal me and I shall be healed. I declare over my life that I am
joy of the Lord be my portion in this hour so that as I encounter
healed and strong in every season. My life belongs to You and I declare
people, they will encounter You. In Jesus' name, AMEN!
Your presence over my life. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, AMEN! Father, in the name of Jesus, I place every depressive and oppressive Father, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I rebuke every plan of the
thought under the blood of Jesus. Because Your word declares that
enemy over my life. I declare the perfect plan of God over me. I speak
You have given me a sound mind, I rebuke every spirit of the devil
cancellation to every evil assignment operating in my life; my health, my
seeking to destroy my mind and bring oppression and depression
finances, my relationships (name the areas) and I thank You for freedom
upon my life through my thoughts. I speak to my mind and I command
in the name of Jesus, AMEN!
it to come into alignment with the truth of God which is the word of God, in the mighty name of Jesus. I thank you for touching me in Jesus'
Father, in the name of Jesus, I rebuke every sickness and disease (call
name, AMEN!
them by name) out of my bloodline right now. My portion is healing according to your Scriptures and I declare that from this day onward I walk in the healing power of God. In the Name of Jesus, AMEN.
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Father I thank You for loving me and never forsaking me. I thank You for Your never-ending kindness, grace and mercy towards me. I thank You for healing me in every area of my life and I thank You that this healing is an everlasting healing. Thank you for being my strength, my keeper, my portion, my shield, my provider, my helper, my everything. In the name of Jesus I pray, AMEN! Father, I thank You for my family and those who around me. Even when all is not well in the relationships around me I still express my gratitude to You. I thank You for the trials and the temptations because in all of them You are teaching me a lesson. I am grateful for every experience that You allow to come to my life and for this I give You great praise. In Jesus' name. AMEN!
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Isaiah 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
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V VI IE EW W S SE ER RI IE ES S
chaste S T Y L E
BY ClothedBySarah
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COVERED AND
TRENDY STYLING TO REPRESENT GOD OUR WORSHIP UNTO HIM!
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So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
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God's Power Over Anxiety
REMAINING IN GOD THROUGH THE THE BATTLE OF ANXIETY WRITTEN BY LYNNE TUGANGUI
A sudden intense panic ran through my body and before I
But, I was desperate and didn’t want to burden family or
knew it, first responders were in my apartment taking my
friends to operate from a capacity larger than what they
blood pressure and asking me questions about what I was
were already living from just for me.
experiencing. Turning to God just felt like the right thing to do. It was after 10 p.m. My husband was doing homework for school and our two older boys (who were toddlers at the
I attended a Sunday service at a church a friend
time) had been in bed for nearly a couple hours. It was my
recommended. The message broke me down and it was the
time to decompress, so I sank into the couch to watch the
first time I felt God's presence meet me right where I was
Food Network.
and filled my soul. My faith started a new journey and I was reaffirmed that God had been by my side the whole time.
That’s when a burst of adrenaline surged its way through
That everything I had gone and was going through was
my body, my heart raced uncontrollably, and I sensed
exactly what needed to happen in order to bring me back to
numbness in my face. My husband confirmed that my face
Him.
lost some color and it wasn’t long after that when the first responders arrived.
"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according
I left in the ambulance that night and in the ER, I was
to his purpose for them." Romans 8:28
diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), panic attacks, and insomnia with emotional reactions. I was
Through this particular life experience, God revealed His
written a prescription, instructed to follow up with my
faithfulness in His pursuit for lost sheep. He really was
primary, and discharged.
willing to leave the 99 to bring them home. (Parable of the Lost Sheep; Luke 15: 1-7)
To be honest, I was disappointed it wasn’t something “serious” and that my labs were fine. This was proof that
I was the lost sheep. The one He had His hand over the
even I bought into the mental health stigma and needed to
whole time. Not because of who I am, but because of who
see it to believe it.
He is!
So, instead of getting the professional help I needed, I
Over a decade later from that late night ambulance ride to
continued to self-medicate and leaned on conversations
the ER, I have still experienced breakdowns. As much as I’ve
with family and friends to keep myself distracted. This
thought (and was told) that this was “all in my head” or
helped, but I needed more support. So, I turned to God.
dismissed as not having prayed enough, I’ve had to challenge the mental stigma through the unbelief
I grew up going to church, but never had a real connection
of those close to me, unlearn my own biases, and learn to
with it. My faith wasn't something I turned to when things
recognize it in myself.
were hard. Continued on pg. 30
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For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)
Remaining in God... cont'd
"IF YOU THINK YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH A MENTAL ILLNESS, THERE IS NO SHAME IN SEEKING PROFESSIONAL HELP. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. YOU ARE LOVED."
As a Christian who experiences anxiety and depression daily, my personal regimen of Bible reading, prayer, serving, and a church family co-exists with regular therapy sessions, medication, and other self-care activities. And, even when moments of loneliness and despair hit, I know He is right there with me. “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” Psalms 23:4
PRAYERS THAT HEAL
While it took me a few more years to get the help that I should have looked for in the beginning, God knew how to weave the details back in alignment with His will. If you think you are struggling with a mental illness, there is no shame in seeking professional help. You are not alone. You are loved.
Father in the name of Jesus, I release myself from the shame connected to mental illness. I will not allow this sickness to keep me bound but I will seek the necessary professional and spiritual help that I need at this time. I declare that out of my situation God will build a great story and I am open to walk with God to see my total healing through the blood of Jesus Christ very soon. In Jesus' mighty name, AMEN!
WHO IS LYNNE TUGANGUI?
Father in the name of Jesus, I thank You for being the God that heals. Just as Scripture declares, "With the stripes of Jesus I am healed." I rebuke every spirit of anxiety that was given access to my life through traumatic situations from childhood and/or over the years. I uncover this spirit from it's hiding place by the light of God and I release the fire of God Lynne Tugangui is a Christ-following, 1st generation FilipinoAmerican, married for 14-years, boy mom of three, a Bay Area native, a PNW transplant, and mental illness warrior. As the Creator of The Bold CEO, she helps others create room for honest conversations where their real emotions can exist, be expressed, met with compassion, and empowered.
to burn it up now in the name of Jesus. AMEN!
Father in the name of Jesus, I release myself from every generational curse associated with anxiety. I release the
Lynne is also a podcast co-host of the Filipino Momcast that walks alongside other Filipino moms empowering them to embrace their unique place in the parenting world while overcoming cultural challenges.
blood of Jesus into my bloodline and I sever my connections
Other things that she currently enjoys are coffee, plants, lettering, and designing.
declare full dependency on You because Your Word has
Website: www.TheBoldCEO.co Email: hello@theboldceo.co IG: @theboldceo @filipinomomcast
a new level of faith. I receive and walk in my total healing, in
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with the attack of my generational line. What has taken the peace of my generations of the past will not take mine. I declared that you are the God that heals me. So now I walk in the name of Jesus Christ, AMEN!
Nancy Bishop AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
FROM WHEELED TO HEALED
A STORY OF GOD'S MIRACULOUS POWER OVER CANCER;
NOT ONCE, BUT TWICE!
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"GOD HAD MY LIFE AND DAYS PLANNED BEFORE HE FORMED ME (PSALM 139), AND NO DOCTOR’S EXPIRATION DATE WILL CHANGE MY LIFE."
NANCY BISHOP
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The Divine Purpose Magazine team had the opportunity to interview the beautiful Nancy Bishop from the United States of America. She is a speaker, encourager, teacher, survivor and fighter. She is a woman on a mission to live on purpose for God. Nancy's story has blessed us and is indeed a source of strength and motivation for all, to keep trusting God and holding on to faith in the midst of trial, sickness and pain. Like Nancy, may you hold on to God as your rock!
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NANCY SHARES...
WHO IS NANCY BISHOP?
I’m a wife (of 44 years) to Dan, who is also in ministry. I’m a mom to three married adult children and a grandma to six grandchildren. I’ve been ministering for 30+ years, teaching Bible Studies, counseling women, as well as speaking at and planning women’s retreats and events. I love seeing women come to Jesus and grow in their spiritual walk.
AFTER THE FIRST CANCER DIAGNOSIS HOW DID YOUR LIFE CHANGE?
In May 2015 I was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. Breast cancer was my biggest fear. To say I was scared is an understatement. I was fearful and full of dread. Would I die? Would we lose our home? Would my grand kids remember me? After weeks of appointments and prayer, I had a double mastectomy and reconstruction. After surgery, I was declared “cancer-free”. I clung to that hope.
WHAT DID YOU GO THROUGH MENTALLY AFTER BEING DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER A SECOND TIME?
Prior to the second diagnosis February 2019, I was having foot problems and began limping. My hips were hurting, and the doctor thought it was tendonitis or bursitis. I tried massage, chiropractors, and physical therapy. The pain continued to worsen until I eventually received steroid shots in both hips. When those were ineffective, the doctor ordered an MRI. There it was – cancer in my bones! Later we discovered I had cancer in many bones and my lungs. It was metastatic breast cancer, stage IV. That doctor gave me six months if I did nothing, and 1-2 years if I did chemo and radiation. What an awful prognosis! The cancer was in a precarious spot and doctors were afraid of a femur break, so they immediately put me in a wheelchair. Dan and I were praying as we drove home from that appointment, and I remember saying to him, “This doesn’t change anything. God had my life and days planned before he formed me (Psalm 139), and no doctor’s expiration date will change my life.” I was confident God would help. Next, we again had to inform our kids and family of the diagnosis. That was terrible.
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"CANCER IS NOT THE WORST THING. NOT TRUSTING GOD IS THE WORST THING. GOD IS BIGGER THAN FEAR."
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"As trust and hope grew, the fear disappeared." THROUGH THE MIDST OF EACH OF THESE STORMS, HOW DID YOU OVERCOME?
My mind vacillated between fear and trust during those first days. Over the following weeks, we began asking God for complete healing. Since I couldn’t walk, I spent my time reading the Bible, writing down Scriptures, and praying. My faith began to grow exponentially. I claimed these verses: Psalm 118:17, “I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done.” and Jeremiah 30:17, “I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the LORD.” I prayed these verses back to God daily. I believed God would heal me. As trust and hope grew, the fear disappeared. I knew that I needed to start declaring what God would do and had already done now—I didn’t need to wait until I was healed. God led me to an integrative doctor that told me about a new protocol. I started that method, as well as chemotherapy with my oncologist. God granted me great hope and peace that healing would come through this protocol. With each doctor's appointment, we learned the cancer lesions were disappearing. God was at work! At my one year appointment, my oncologist told me there were no lesions on my scans. None in my bones, and none in my lungs! He declared me NED—No Evidence of Disease! This is what we had been praying for. God healed me! My doctors were all amazed. Since then, I declare loudly that God healed me.
TOTALLY
HEALED
BY GOD DIVINE PURPOSE MAGAZINE |37
NANCY'S ADVICE...
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU HAVE GIVEN TO THE BEFORE-CANCER NANCY, BASED ON WHO YOU HAVE BECOME TODAY?
Do not fear! I can trust God through my fears. God is ALWAYS faithful, no matter what. I didn’t need to fear what the world or the enemy brought. Cancer is not the worst thing. Not trusting God is the worst thing. God is bigger than fear. HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE TODAY'S WOMAN WHO IS DEALING WITH ANY ILLNESS?
God has a plan for you! Not just your life as a healthy woman, but for what you are facing currently. The circumstance that you find yourself facing is not outside of God’s understanding and wisdom. He has a purpose for you. Nothing changes that fact. Seek Him. Don’t be afraid to claim His promises. He wants to see you displaying His glory and goodness. Romans 15:13, “May the God of HOPE fill you will all JOY and PEACE as you trust in Him so that you may OVERFLOW with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit.” There is overflowing hope. Claim it. Trust Him. Live fully.
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"GOD IS MY ROCK AND REFUGE. GO ROCK OUT YOUR DAY!" WHO IS NANCY BISHOP?
Nancy Bishop has a passion for helping women grow in Christ. She has been a Bible Teacher for over 30 years. Nancy loves teaching God’s Word and watching others discover power, peace and hope in Jesus Christ. She loves to encourage women in their lives, whether through great times or trying times. Nancy is also an entrepreneur, teaching piano for 20 years and owning her own business in sales for 18 years. She has been married to Dan for over 40 years, is a mother to three and a grandma to six. Website: www.nancybishop.rocks Facebook: Nancy Bishop Speaks Instagram: @nancybishopspeaks6
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MORE THAN A SURVIVOR... SHE'S A
THRIVER
AN INTERVIEW WITH
HARDY Who is Niki Hardy? Wow, great question. Let me think for a moment... I'm a pastor's wife, mum, Brit in the USA, cancer "thriver", author, speaker, fresh air junkie, and teller of terrible jokes who comes alive under big skies and mountain views.
'I learned the truth that when we stop waiting we discover life doesn't have to be pain free to be full."
2. What has caused you to hold on to God and trust in Him the way you do today? Holding on to God isn't something I find naturally easy. As a make-it-happen kind of woman my default position is to figure stuff out myself and then ask God to come alongside me as I do my thing. But that didn't work when I was diagnosed with cancer hot on the heals of losing both my mum and sister to the disease. I set off on my cancer journey determined to survive but eventually, that's all I was doing, merely surviving. I had no choice but to let go of all I was holding onto and trusting in to hold onto God for dear life.
It strengthened my grip for sure and now one of my favorite prayers is "Lord, I trust. Help my lack of trust" because I want to trust him, I need to trust him, and I plan to trust him, but so often I find myself trusting myself more than God all over again. Trust is a muscle we need to work out and build everyday 3. How did the whole experience of cancer really change you and your faith walk? Cancer made me realize that suffering isn't just hard emotionally and physically but it's hard spiritually as well because any kind of pain affects our relationship with God. Suffering is just painful, it's personal.
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When we see others suffer, a still birth, children with cancer, famine, trafficking, addiction - suffering that's out there – we ask. But when it's us suffering, when we're the one whose husband's walked out or it's our scan that shows the cancer's back, our question becomes, what kind of God are you that you're letting me suffer? Our personal suffering is just that, personal, and it affects our personal relationship with our relational God. I remember pulling over and taking the call that my tumor was cancer. I screamed, What the heck? I thought you were good? What's happening? After all I've done for you? It felt so personal. I felt let down, unseen, unloved, forgotten, and left behind. Like my faith wasn't strong enough to ward this off. Eventually I found myself I asking the two questions we all end up asking one way or another when we're struggling: 1. God, what do you have to say to ME in MY pain? 2. What am I meant to DO? I discovered the answer to these two questions the same. It's simply STOP WAITING. I didn't even realize I was waiting but I was. As soon as life got hard I hid away, dug in for the long haul, denied how hard it was, soldiered on and put life on hold. We all do it. We wait for the storm to pass, the waters to stop raging, and life to return to normal, determined to survive and make it through.It's the same no matter what we're battling. I found myself saying, "If I can just... get through this chemo, finish radiation, get out of surgery. I waited."
Eventually I realized that's not the gospel message!! That's not the good news. .Jesus didn't say I have come that you might have life and life in all its fullness, buuuutttt... you're going to have to ride out this storm and simply survive and get through until life gets easier. Then you'll find it. I learned the truth that when we stop waiting we discover life doesn't have to be pain free to be full. 4. What major lessons from your experience can you share? Once I'd realized that God's abundant full life wasn't off in future somewhere but mixed in the middle of all the hardship and disappointment I was wading through, I set off to discover how to thrive, not just survive, my cancer. I asked people who seemed to epitomize this Thriver mentality how they lived life to the full despite the terrible things they had to deal with and they pretty much all said the same things. It was so powerful that I ended up writing my Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart, and laying out these practices or tools these people shared. The key thing I learned and share is this message that life doesn't have to be pain free to be full. Our world tells us a full and abundant life is glossy, healthy, wealthy, and wonderful but Jesus never said that just like He never said we'd have to wait for it. An abundant life is a life of hope, intimacy with God and others, peace, joy, strength, comfort and even laughter, no matter life's chucked at you and we play a part in grabbing it and living it. It's a gift from Jesus, but we need to receive it and open it.
5. How can you advise other women or men who may be experiencing any sickness at this time? If you're struggling right now whether through sickness, heartache, loss, financial struggles or anything else that leaves us feeling like we're barely surviving, I want to encourage you that God isn't mad at you, He hasn't abandoned you, and He isn't holding out on you. He loves you deeply and has so much for you. Don't stop praying but equally, stop waiting for life to get better to live your life. 6. Tell us about your upcoming event. The Trusting God Through Cancer Summit. It's a free online event I'm hosting in October with over twenty international speakers over four days, all coming together to help strengthen and equip those whose lives and faith have been shaken by cancer. You'll get down to earth, practical, biblical tools and encouragement to teach people how to conquer fear, rebuild their trust in God, and thrive, not just survive their diagnosis, with strength, hope, peace and laughter, no matter what. It's designed for those diagnosed with cancer but anyone who's going through a hard season and needs some encouragement and practical teaching will get loads out of it.
WHO IS NIKI HARDY?
Niki Hardy is a Brit in the USA, a rectal (yes, rectal) cancer survivor, pastor's wife, tea drinker and teller of bad jokes. As a speaker and the author of Breathe Again: How to Live Well When Life Falls Apart, she's all about meeting you when life's not fair and helping you discover that with God, life doesn't have to be pain-free to be full, then go live it. Grab a couple of free chapters of Niki's book and say "Hi" over on Instagram and Facebook. Website: www.nikihardy.com Facebook: Niki Hardy Instagram: @niki.hardy
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Purpose In Pain
IS THERE PURPOSE IN PAIN? How to Question God During a Crisis WRITTEN BY MELODY BELOTTE
May 4, 2002. My graduation, my brother’s wedding or any other special event could have marked that last week of high school, but instead, it became forever known as “the week of Melody’s car accident.” According to police, my car swerved off the interstate, down a steep embankment and through a tree. The car burst into flames, the dashboard collapsed on my legs, and the steering wheel pinned me to my seat. Emergency crews tore off the roof and flew me to the nearest hospital. I was grateful to have survived, but the experience devastated me. I had a hole in my face that was two inches wide. My body was covered with deep, ugly gashes. I couldn’t speak. I couldn’t eat. I couldn’t walk. And in an instant – all those special moments planned for my senior year vanished.
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I lay in bed, unable to move, with thousands of questions swirling around in my head. “Will life ever be the same again? Why did this happen? What if it doesn’t get better? How do I keep going? Why me? Why now, God?” Fast-forward 18 years. As I write this, we’re in the middle of the COVID_19 pandemic. Much like my car accident, this health crisis has brought life to a screeching halt. Businesses shuttered. Graduations canceled. Weddings postponed. Families separated. The very same questions I quietly asked God 18 years ago are now being asked by millions of people worldwide. Strangely, I feel prepared for this, because the accident taught me a life-changing lesson: Stop asking God “Why?” and start asking, “Now what?” I began to pray, Now that this has happened, and I can’t change it – how do you want me to respond, God? That’s when the healing began. I’d been given a second chance at life, and I didn’t want to waste a minute of it.
"Stop asking God Why? and start asking, NOW WHAT?” WHO IS MELODY BELOTTE?
News of my story spread. I was invited to speak at graduations, churches, youth groups and police programs. With scars on my body and a crooked smile on my face, I told them, “When bad things happen, don’t ask why, ask now what. If you’re not dead, God’s not done with you.” Whether you have a scar story, a COVID story, or simply a “get-me-through-today” kind of story – take heart, friends. If you’re not dead, God’s not done with you. Your story is still being written…
Melody Belotte is a modern writer and speaker who inspires audiences to make the most of their time. With 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, strategic marketing and business, she coaches individuals, leadership teams and management groups on topics of time management, work-life balance, strategic planning, and purposeful living. Learn more about her “scar story” at www.MelodyBelotte.com. Website: www.melodybelotte.com Facebook: melody.belotte IG: @melody.belotte
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Philippians 3:12-14
“I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
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God's Power Over Abuse In Marriage
ENCOURAGEMENT
WHEN GOD WAS ALL I HAD By Donna Wayles
My life shattered the day my husband smashed my face against the storm door of our apartment. His explosion ripped away every illusion that our marriage was godly and loving. When the police and paramedics arrived, they checked me out and declared my apartment a crime scene. We were not allowed to go back after the hospital released me. The police detectives insisted it was unsafe.
All I had was the clothes I was wearing and a diaper bag for my daughter. My friend told the police officers she would keep us safe, so we went to stay with her. Sunday came, and I wanted to attend church. Dirk and I had participated in church faithfully for years, but it wasn’t safe. He had told everyone I was having an affair, “living in sin.”
GOD WILL BE A FRIEND TO EVERY BROKEN WOMAN
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When God Was All I Had cont'd
"In my darkest hours, He was gently showing me that although I had nothing, He was all I needed."
I was no longer welcome or safe at our church. I felt betrayed. How could a God who I had trusted and served all my life allow this to happen? I had followed all the rules. I taught Sunday school, junior church, and went on summer mission trips. I became a Christian school teacher and helped others find faith in Jesus Christ as I had. I wondered if all my service was for nothing. In answer to my unspoken prayers, a seminary classmate and his wife invited me to attend a nearby church where they were pastors.
I was amazed that they wanted me to come. The pastor’s wife hugged me the minute I walked in the door. My tears flowed when she said, “you will be safe and loved here.” Her words spoke healing to my heart. Although I was living in hiding, bruised, and feeling betrayed that God was still there. In my darkest hours, He was gently showing me that although I had nothing, He was all I needed. “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 40:31 KJV
PRAYERS THAT HEAL WHO IS DONNA WAYLES?
Father, in the name of Jesus, I ask You to give me the strength to walk away from any abusive relationship. I break the power of every demonic soul tie in my life and I loose myself from the chains of abuse with the fire of God. AMEN! Donna Wayles is a Christian wife, mom, teacher, and domestic abuse survivor. She now lives in Rhode Island with her four spoiled bunnies, Skittles the cat, her amazing husband, and daughter. When not writing bestselling novels, Donna likes to create scrapbooks full of happy memories. Website: www.authordwayles.org Facebook: Author Donna Wayles IG: @donna_wayles
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Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank You for Your loving kindness towards me. I thank You that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Father, You have given me Your neverending love and I thank You. May I feel this love in every hard situation. May Your love be extended to me through the power of forgiveness towards those who have hurt me. Father I thank You. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN!
God In COVID_19
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Psalm 107:20
He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
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G O D
I N
C O V I D _ 1 9
STACEY COLEMAN
The new year of 2020 started off with a bang! A calendar filled with gatherings of all sorts, travel plans galore, especially our long awaited anniversary trip. We had everything mapped out. But there was this chatter that was lingering in the air called COVID_19. Surely in just a few weeks this virus would become a fleeting thought. We decided to continue on with our plans and headed out on our European vacation- the one we had talked about for years.
It is a supernatural peace that we cannot wrap our minds around that brought us to a place of restored health.
The trip was fantastic. It was everything we had hoped it would be. We had seen only a few people wearing masks and everything seemed to be contained elsewhere. But about two weeks after our return home the pandemonium began. It started with cases escalating in Italy. Only a few cases were mentioned in London and Paris where we had traveled. We had no idea that our normal daily lives were about to drastically change.
We can all find rest in His peace. God is faithful to take care of us. He will give us the strength and confidence that we need to stand strong against the enemy. We can be courageous in spirit to battle any health issues, anxiety, or fear of the unknown.
T
Before our trip I began studying and quoting scriptures about peace. I was extremely nervous about the long flight and I often get anxious about the unknown. Therefore I was praying for the supernatural peace that only comes from God to cover my heart and my mind. It’s His peace that surpasses all understanding that gives us the comfort that we need in times of trouble. On March 25, 2020 my husband and I both tested positive for COVID_19. We were one of the few cases in our area at the time and little was known about the virus. Our symptoms of fever and achiness turned into weeks of fatigue. And we began to struggle in our minds fighting against fear. The numerous reports of sudden deaths tried to paralyze us with worry. But it was during that time we knew that despite our circumstances we could rest in His peace. And there was a calm over our hearts that can only be found in His presence.
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“And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world.” John 16:33
And regardless of a global pandemic we can choose faith over fear and peace over panic. He alone is our peace and comfort in times of need.
WHO IS STACEY COLEMAN?
Stacey Coleman has a passion for the truth of God’s Word to be established in the hearts of women. She’s a Louisiana girl who has embraced life as a pastor, worship leader, mom of three young men, and recently became a grandmother. Together with her husband, Jay, they pastor Journey Church in Greenwell Springs, LA. Stacey loves shopping, spa days, and spending time with her Journey Girls. Website: www.takethejourney.tv Facebook: Stacey Coleman Instagram: @staceymcoleman
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 CHRONICLES 7:14
N EE || 5054 D I V IDNI VEI N PEU PRUPROPSOES EMMAAGGAAZZ II N
DITCH THE MASK BY BECKY ANTKOWIAK
Her natural curls danced as she spoke. A wide smile—contagious, even translated through miles of digital cable—sketched laugh lines around her eyes. She joked about forgetting to comb the back of her hair. I felt instant, deep connection with my authentic, imperfect, warm new friend. In spite of the computer screen, I perceived no barrier, no distance. Her unmasked face reflected her genuine, joyful heart. Because of COVID_19, this conversation with an unmasked person felt refreshing, instead of normal. Thanks to COVID, we must each decide whether we’ll wear a mask, or ditch it. Masks hide flaws and crooked teeth, but they also obscure smiles and personalities. Clear communication and deep connection become almost impossible when masks muffle our words and envelop our faces. Wearing a mask is a burden. Connecting is easier without a mask, and yet, we—especially women—have long chosen to wear another mask. Not a mask made of cloth, but one with similar effect. My new friend sent me a message. I tapped her avatar to reply. And stopped. Wondering if I’d clicked the wrong link, I studied the profile photo. Flawless makeup. Straightened hair, all in place. Crisp, professional clothes. Hint of a smile. Mona Lisa inaccessibility. I realized this woman was the friendly, bright-smiled gal I’d met, now wearing an almost-perfect mask. For years, we’ve covered imperfections with outward adjustments. Couldn’t leave the house without grabbing the living-my-best-life mask. We ducked out of friends’ selfies if we’d forgotten our have-it-all-together mask. And at church, well, Lord help us if we ever let our blessed-and-highly-favored mask slip.
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Ditching the self-made mask will be tough. We like mental-andemotional-stability. We love almost-perfect. We worry people won’t accept or respect us as we are: fragile, flawed, damaged, defective. Will we reach for the don’t-need-help mask, or will we admit our inadequacy and use it to bring others to God? God created us in His perfect image. Our goal is to become more like Him—not by masking our deficiencies with counterfeit human perfection, but by relying on Him and letting His love shine through our cracks.' But then, COVID_19 stripped away our doing-just-fine mask: the makeup, the hair, the clothes. The inauthenticity. COVID required us to focus on the urgent, the important. We’re too exhausted for extras. We’re all vulnerable; to pretend otherwise would be ludicrous. We laugh about wearing a nice shirt over pajama pants for video calls. We’re willing to discuss the difficulties of living in close quarters, of broken relationships, of parenting, of schooling at home. We ask for help. We cry. We no longer pretend we’re okay. On-screen, we see each other more clearly than we’ve ever seen in person. People living in 1918 probably thought Spanish Flu mask requirements would be permanent, but their lives returned to normal. So will ours. As our communities reopen, as the physical 3-ply mask is discarded, does God want us to return to the I’m-finethanks mask?
“…if we love one another, God abides in us and His love is perfected in us.” – 1 John 4:12, ESV Dropping the strong-Christian-warrior mask (and showing others how much we need Jesus to get through the day) gives them permission to also seek His help. God wants us to stop hiding behind a mask, to make our imperfect selves accessible, to be authentic and loving, and to allow Him to use our difficulties and flaws. When others can see our struggles, they’ll listen when we say, “I understand your pain. God helps me survive. He’s a personal friend. Let me introduce you. We’re in this together. You’re not alone. Not ever.” I’m ditching my always-in-control mask. Are you ready to ditch your mask? Let’s toss together, on three. I’ll start the count; you finish. One… two…
WHO IS BECKY ANTKOWIAK?
Maybe we should ask ourselves, “after starting new lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort?” Galatians 3:3, NLT Although my friend’s picture prompted this conversation, it really isn’t about physical appearance. I’m not saying we should toss our makeup. I’m suggesting a conscious effort to ditch the nothing-tosee-here mask, to ask God for help and to release our pride.
A former corporate recruiter, Becky Antkowiak is a writer, speaker, editor, adoptive homeschooling mom and serial extrovert. She is a passionate advocate for Compassion International and the WAMI Foundation (an NGO in Uganda with a focus on reaching and educating underprivileged girls and women). Webste: www.beckyantkowiak.com Facebook: BeckyAntkowiak Instagram: @beckyantkowiak
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Exodus 15:26
...I am the Lord that healeth thee.
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UNLEASING THE WRITER & SPEAKER IN YOU
10 TIPS FOR DEVELOPING YOUR VOICE AND MESSAGE By Lisa Whittle and Alli Worthington
UNLEASING THE WRITER & SPEAKER IN YOU
Each of us has a story God is writing, not only to grow and change us, but to share with others. He gives us unique life experiences that we can use to inspire, encourage and equip others. We can become an important part of someone else’s story when we use the gifts and wisdom God has given us. As writers and speakers with more than fifteen years of experience between us, we’ve learned how to create impactful messages by developing our voice and being true to who we are. You can do it, too! Here are ten helpful tips for using your voice, sharing your story, and developing your unique message:
1
3
2 YOU
CONNECT
PEOPLE
OUT
WITH
OF
THERE’S THE BE
CONNECTED
GOD
AND
WITH
TO
FILLED
THE
HOLY
NO
“ONE
God is the source of all creativity and knowledge. Staying connected to Him is crucial.
COMMUNICATE
ARE
A
God uses all personality types and gifts. Are you quiet? God will use you! Are you extroverted and the life of the party? God will use you, too!.
4 BE
YOU.
YOU
OF
ARE
TO
MESSAGE
SPIRIT
OVERFLOW
RIGHT WHO
WAY”
It’s important to know yourself and incorporate your unique voice into your content. What makes you unique? What life experience do you have that you can use to relate to others?
5
6
“THEY”
ALREADY
TAKEN!
God gave you the creative talent and the right personality to go with it. Don’t try to be someone you aren’t. Your message won’t look like anyone else’s or anything else you’ve seen.
BEING OR
IMPRESSIVE
POWERFUL
ISN’T
THE
RIGHT
GOAL
ALWAYS ADD
It’s more important to: Be relatable: It draws others in. Be authentic: Our authenticity gives us identity. Be transparent: It makes us trustworthy.
TRY
TO
VALUE
Focus less on yourself and more on serving the audience and adding value to their lives.
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UNLEASING THE WRITER & SPEAKER IN YOU
7 YOUR YOUR
UNIQUE
MESSAGE BE
FOR
WILL
9
8 UNIQUE
MESSAGE NOT
FIRST
EVERYONE
IN
Do not be discouraged by the people who do not get it. Focus on the people who desperately need what you have to say. Your job is not to adapt to a different message. Your job is to responsibly deliver yours.
WILL
WORKED
BE
STAY
HUMBLE,
OUT
KEEP
LEARNING
AND
YOU
It’s a process, which means that over time your unique message is allowed to change depending upon your circumstances, growth, and season of life. Be open to the new thing God is doing in and through you!
Don’t let comparison or complacency keep you from growing.
10 BUILD
YOUR
COMMUNITY
Your community will bring you opportunities, insight, connections, and comfort in your journey. It’s important to invest in others and build your community every day.
To continue developing your skills as a writer or speaker, join us at Called Creatives, a writing and speaking coaching community for women who are called to share our messages of freedom with a lost and broken world.
WHO IS LISA WHITTLE?
WHO IS ALI WORTHINGTON?
Lisa is the author of 7 books, including her latest best-selling release, Jesus Over Everything (and 6-week companion Bible Study). Her forthcoming 8th book will be released in 2021, and she is a soughtout speaker and Bible teacher for her wit and bold, bottom line approach.
Alli Worthington is the author of Standing Strong: A Woman’s Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence, The Year of Living Happy, Fierce Faith: A Woman's Guide to Fighting Fear, Wrestling Worry and Overcoming Anxiety and Breaking Busy: Finding Peace and Purpose in a World of Crazy, she is a speaker, podcaster, and business coach.
Host of the popular podcast, Jesus Over Everything, founder of Ministry Strong, a strengthening and restorative ministry for Christian leadership, ministry coach, wife and mother of 3, Lisa is a selfprofessed feisty work in progress with a love for good food and decorating on a dime. Website: www.LisaWhittle.com Instagram: @lisawhittle
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Her goal is to help women reach the next level. Alli co-founded Called Creatives and has helped individuals, small business owners, and Fortune 500 companies be more successful. Alli is a popular speaker and has spoken at Catalyst, Women of Joy, Propel Women, and Arise. Website: www.AlliWorthington.com Instagram: @AlliWorthington
Godly Living
5 STEPS TO RAISING A GODLY CHILDREN BY VICKI L.OLTON It is the parents' responsibility to teach children about the Jesus Christ and show them through the word of God, how to live a godly life. We see this command in Deuteronomy 6:7: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. Raising godly children may not be a very simple task but it sure is possible with the guidance of The Holy Spirit and God's word. Here are 5 key steps which you can take in order to raise your child/children in a godly fashion. 1. Be a biblical example - Children are like a chalkboard and parents are the chalk. Whatever you write on the chalkboard is what they will retain. In other words, whatever they see you do, they will also do. You must therefore be an example of biblical principles for them to see and mimic. Simply put; do what the Bible says and they will follow. 2. Find time everyday to sit with your child and teach him/her about the Word of God - Never be too busy to spend at least 15 minutes with your child to talk about Jesus Christ. Your child will value Jesus Christ more when they see you taking the time to sit with them to discuss Him. They will see the level of importance that you apply to the things of God and they too will value the experience spent with you. 3. Speak positive things over your child. - Your words towards your child are powerful and will mold how they see themselves and how they respond to God. If you speak positive words and promises from the Bible over them, they will surely manifest. 4. Pray with your child - There is a popular saying that families that pray together stay together, I believe with all my heart that this is true because prayer allows us to build a strong foundation of dependence upon God in the midst of all the evil going on in the world. 5. Instill discipline - In this modern society we see that many children are not made accountable when they do something wrong or disobey. Instilling the importance of obeying parents' commands prepares a child to understand the importance of obeying the precepts and commands of the Father and the consequence of sin as discipline for living in sin.
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BALANCE: IT STARTS WITH THE MIND BY VICKI L.OLTON Whenever you hear the "balance" word it most often has to do with living a life where one has all the information they need to know to manage the many areas of their life well (financial, social, spiritual, emotional and more!). It's most often about learning how to live an effective life in every area. For me, a balanced life does take these things into consideration but what is most important that one has a balanced mind; that is, a mind filled with thoughts in alignment with the word of God. Balance can therefore be referred to as a "sound mid"; a mind fixed on the word of God. Scripture tells us that, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:9). A balanced mind is one which is stayed on the word of God. Only then will one be at peace. Many people seek after meditation and yoga activities to find this peace, but true peace comes when the mind is fixed on God. This is why the the Bible says: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." (Isaiah 26:3) A balanced mind is not one filled with impure thoughts, but one filled with the pureness of God, filled with the truth and doesn't internalize negative reports. We see this in Philippians 4:8 which tells us, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." The devil tries all he can to destroy our minds but God gives His people the ability to fight by casting down every evil thought. He instructs us in 2 Corinthians 10:45Â Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ". With a balanced mind; one which is aligned with the word of God, we can make the right decisions in every single area of our lives.
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AUTHOR FEATURES
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AUTHOR SIMONE STEWART Simone Stewart is the author of seven inspirational books. These include her foundational devotional God’s Daily Portion, the women’s inspirational volume Uniquely Me and a series of journals including her latest publication Rejoice.Publishing, she says has provided her with a vehicle to share her insights born of a spirit of defiance against her own challenges “It was in my valley experience that the LORD started giving me His daily word, what I now call, His Daily Portion, to face each day. "Every morning without fail, as long as I went into His presence, He would give me a portion of His word. It didn’t matter if I was on vacation or a public holiday, He was ready to pour out. I am mindful, that I am on an assignment for God, to share HIS daily portion to His people.” Simone is an entrepreneur, and a part of the management team within a leading organization in the financial sector. She attends various seminars and workshops about money management, time management, sales and service, service that sells, financial management, financial freedom, budgeting, entrepreneurship, people management, motivation and spiritual retreats all geared towards success and fulfillment of her God-given purpose. As such, Simone has launched a series of daily video devotionals also called God’s Daily Portion on social media in keeping with her mission is to inspire, motivate, enlighten and guide others to make and live a positive, happy, purpose-driven life based on the Word of God. She says her goals, passion, and hobbies revolve around not just her family, but around self-awareness, self-affirmation, personal growth and development and living your best life now. She’s an avid reader of the Bible, Biographies, great books and audio books by writers including Honoree Corder, Ben Hale, Hal Elrod, and TD Jakes.
Simone Stewart was once asked, “of all the roles you play - author, banker, mother, business woman, student, public speaker and minister, which best describes you?” Without hesitation she said. “All of them, I claim them all in His name”.
Learn how one woman, navigated her hectic lifestyle, as a corporate banker, mother-of-two, wife,an allround church woman, to published author and now devotional blogger. Website: www.godsdailyportion.com/ Facebook: GodsDP Instagram: godsdailyportiondevotional
The answer is testament to Simone Stewart’s life-philosophies. She says these are, “to operate in excellence in all that you do; to be aware that where we fail to plan, we certainly plan to fail; study to show yourself approved unto God a workman who needs not to be ashamed; and that Integrity and your word must be your bond." DIVINE PURPOSE MAGAZINE |67
AUTHOR LEOSTONE MORRISON Rev. Leostone Morrison is Christian author. A graduate of the Jamaica Theological Seminary. Currently, he serves as a Probation Officer in St. Kitts and Nevis. He is passionate about prayer and about seeing God's people empowered into living their best lives. He is the founder of Restoration of the Breach International Ministry, of which Restoration of the Breach School on the Thinikific platform is hosted. He began as was led by the Holy Spirit, to have daily WhatsApp Bible Study which presently reaches six territories. A mentor of ministers, Husband and father to five beautiful children. Facebook: Leostone Morrison Instagram: @restorative_author
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind… – Romans 12:2a Are you a prisoner of your own mind? The greatest war being waged is not external; it is the war for your mind. To bask in the wealth afforded in this lifetime you need to be perpetually renewing your mind. In Mind Renewal, Pastor and Guidance Counsellor, Rev. Leostone Morrison provides the biblical keys to renew your mind, so that you can become a better person. If you like Norman Vincent Peale’s books, you will like Mind Renewal. In this book, you will discover: 1. The power of the Word of God to unshackle the mind. 2. Divine keys to overcome negative thinking and unleash the greatness inside you. 3. Practical solutions and powerful stories to move you from the realm of the ordinary to the extraordinary. The secret to become a better you is Mind Renewal. Grab a copy, use the keys and become a better you.
“A simple yet transformational material that is no doubt a life-changer for everyone who reads it. Mind Renewal gives great insights into becoming a better you by understanding your purpose and having the right mindset.” - - Rev. Ramon Douglas, New Life Fellowship Center Church of God Does it still feel like you are a prisoner of your own mind despite your best efforts? In this devotional follow-up to the book, Mind Renewal: Biblical Secrets to a Better You, you will be provided with the key to maintain your mental freedom. This key is ongoing Mind Renewal. You don’t have to be a prisoner of your own mind. This 30-day devotional is part one of a three-part series to maintain your mental freedom and protect you from the onslaught of negative thinking and self-limiting beliefs.Grab a copy of the Mind Renewal Transformational Devotional and get the keys to maintain your mental freedom and fulfill your potential.
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AUTHOR LEOSTONE MORRISON
"The most beautiful benefit in being a prisoner is the expectation of freedom. Devotional Volume 1, taught us how to use the things that were seemingly meant as a setback to grant us powerful freedom tools in unlocking mental bars that sentenced us to a life of conformity. Volume 2 will help you to become the best version of you in spite of the traps, negatives of the past, criticism and even injustice.”—Min. Stacy-Ann GarveyAuthor, Founder of Prison Break Movement Does it still feel like you are a prisoner of your mind despite your best efforts?In this devotional follow-up to the book Mind Renewal: Biblical Secrets to a Better You, you will be provided the keys to unlock the wealth of your mind as you continue to transform your mind with the Word of God, be conscious that mind renewal is not an event but a journey. This 30-day devotional is part two of a three-part series to maintain your mental freedom and protect you from the onslaught of negative thinking and self-limiting beliefs. Get your copy of the Mind Renewal Transformation Devotional series and discover the keys to become a better you.
This book is available on Amazon & Kindle Facebook: leostone.morrison nstagram: @restorative_author
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AUTHOR LATESHA A. PARKES
Jamaican born self-publisher, author and abuse survivor Latesha Parkes is the author of “A Test Turned Testimony”. Her riveting and intriguing survival story highlights her traumatic experiences of sexual abuse as a child into adolescence, and her remarkable faith-driven journey to recovery. The book also showcases a daily plan to help other survivors move beyond despair into destiny with a 12 day guide to becoming an overcomer. Moving around and dealing with various kinds of abusive situations were some hallmarks of her early life. Driven by a deep love for reading, writing became a natural therapeutic outlet for her release of pain and suffering. Rom. 8: 28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God; to them who are called according to His PURPOSE.” This made her resolutely determined to rise above her dismal beginnings.
Have you suffered sexual or mental abuse and are unable to get out of this bad situation? Are you worried because you don't have a good relationship with your parents or family? If your answer is “yes” to at least one of these questions, then read on because I can really help you. I spent these bad moments before I know how it feels and I can help you get out of it. "Domestic violence is repeated because it works and because there are frequently no legal consequences. The fact that domestic violence is learned means that the perpetrators behavior can be changed. Most individuals can learn not to batter if there is sufficient motivation for changing that behavior." (Farmer, 2007, page 2). In our society there are many forms of violent behavior which include "physical, verbal, emotional, sexual and visual brutality they are inflicted disproportionately or exclusively on members of one sex." In this book you will learn: How I came about Life as a child How to act in the arms of a monster Life after hell Accepting the truth Steps to overcoming Shifting the atmosphere And much more!! 70| DIVINE PURPOSE MAGAZINE
This confident 23 year old single mom defied all odds and circumstances designed to thwart and derail her desire to take control of her own destiny. The tremendous loss of her mother and younger sibling in 2017 further fueled her need to share her unusual story with the world. Her primary aim is to inspire and empower others who have been and is still facing abuse, neglect and brokenness. She is a living testimony that God, the Greatest Potter, can transform our circumstances for our own good and His glory. “Empowering Youth’s for a Purpose” (E.Y.P) is her most recent initiative geared at influencing youths to live purposefully. Latesha’s next speaking engagement will be at the closing exercise for a group of young people from the Spanish Town Skills Training Centre in August 2020. As an adolescent coach and trained counsellor, Latesha realizes that there are persons who want their story told and was led to establish “Powerful Purpose Publishing” (P.P.P). This faith- based ministry is ordained to awaken sleeping passion within aspiring Christian authors, thus encouraging budding writers to launch out in their purpose with divine download from God. She is currently coaching two aspiring authors to publish their books of Poetry and Children’s story. Latesha has huge dreams. She believes in purpose and a fulfilled life. Website: www.amazon.com/author/shewrites2inspire Facebook: Lateisha Parkes nstagram: @ladyparkes
AUTHOR SHERRY S. CAIN Sherry Cain is an author, speaker, and business coach for new Kingdom entrepreneurs. Her first book The Will to Move: From Fear to Faith to Purpose hit the Amazon New Release best seller list in less than 24 hours. Sherry, affectionately known as the Kingdom Coach has a call and mandate to help New Kingdom entrepreneurs build their confidence and business from the ground up. Sherry realizes that God has called her as a christian coach to inspire new business owner hopefuls to walk into what God has called them to do. Believing that there is purpose in the pain that we go through to get to where we are supposed to be, Sherry believes we all have a story a testimony and a call to go higher than where we are now. We can all move out of our fear to a place of purpose.
You Can Be An Entrepreneur Too is a quick virtual guide on how to start a business. Sherry has always been asked the question: What is needed to begin a business? So she created this e-book to help take some of the guesswork out of being a first-time entrepreneur. Website: www.sherrycain.com Instagram: @sherryscain
The Will To Move is my story on how Sherry was almost homeless and scared to walk in what God was calling her to do but with faith and perseverance was able to accomplish walking one step at a time. The book inspires others who know they have a call on their life that they too can walk from a place of fear to a place of purpose.
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ABC OF DIVINE PURPOSE LIVING
DIVINE PURPOSE COACHING Email us at divinepurposecoaching@gmail.com for your FREE Purpose Discovery Worksheet
A
Understand that you have been born for a purpose and that you are valuable on the earth.
B C
Believe that God placed that purpose in you from the beginning of time and will use it to bring glory to His name on the earth.
Know that you can never walk in true purpose unless you seek the One who created the purpose in you. Always pursue God in prayer in order to understand your divine purpose.
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