Voice of Truth: 7th Edition, Quarter I, 2022 by Voice of Truth

7TH EDITION QUARTER 1 2022

Our Mission A unified, global women’s ministry empowering one another to follow Christ and to love in abundance; and cultivating women warriors in their purpose by His promise and power.

Join us! Visit our website at www.womenworldleaders.com to find out how you can get involved!

Daily Devotionals Enjoy our daily devotionals shared by Kimberly on our Facebook page, website, and email list!

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Speaking Our Global Office Team is willing to speak at women’s events or conferences. Empowerment – Kimberly Hobbs Teaching – Julie Jenkins We are a team unified in His love and will intentionally pray about any presented opportunities to speak at your next event.

Listen to a weekly trio of podcasts! Experience God’s extravagant love and your exquisite purpose through the Women World Leaders’ podcast that focuses on teaching, inspiration, and encouragement. Our prayer is that as your intimacy with God grows, your love for one another will flourish, enabling you to live out a courageous, purpose-driven life, fueled by the Word, led by the Spirit, and propelled forward into your God-given destiny through fearless faith! From His heart to yours, we are Women World Leaders! www.womenworldleaders.com/learn-with-us/podcasts/

Letter from the Founder W

elcome to the new year of 2022. I am continuously praying for you, my sister. Many of us have made new year resolutions, but I wonder how many have begun new routines to accompany those goals, implementing alternatives that take us out of our comfort zone for the better. If you have or have not, I have a suggestion that might be something new and good for you. It is good news that you can use this year to combat opposition that may be lurking. After all, opposition can come upon us without notice and be present in various forms, tempting us to mess us up. This year, I want to challenge you to focus on God, stay your course, and read God’s Word daily! It’s easy to dismiss mishaps or problems by saying, “That’s life; bad things happen.” Thankfully, scripture speaks to our battles, recognizing and pointing out that we are in a spiritual war and reminding us that we are not meant to fight alone. God is with us. We must be on guard constantly, knowing there are spiritual forces trying to defeat us. These forces are trying to ruin your great intentions, the new resolutions you may have made this year, and the healthy routines you have started. Wherever you want to make changes for the better, you can be certain that struggle will be involved. Be on guard and be prepared. You need strength! In this new season, I encourage you to align yourself with what God’s Word says regarding faith, your mental and physical life, food habits, or wherever you have resolved to better your life. Then, with God’s help, you can overcome anything that comes against you. Put on the whole armor of God, as He instructs in Ephesians. “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God.” “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” (Ephesians 6:1118 NIV) This year, may you access that power and protection which God’s Word tells you to be conscious of daily. It is all in the armor. It will equip you and give you knowledge, instruction, and ever-increasing faith. By praying and putting on the full armor of God, you will not face your battles alone. Instead, God will equip you as His Princess warrior, strong and empowered in faith. With this gear in place upon yourself, you will be ready to face this new year, new season, and stand strong against whatever comes to detour you from your resolve. At Women World Leaders, we are here to encourage you, pray for you, and embark on new adventures filled with wisdom, teaching, captivating thoughts, and godly issues of Voice of Truth magazine 2022! May we together gird ourselves with His Truth and His Love as we faithfully read His Word, the Holy Bible. All glory be to God for the great things He is doing and will do in and through us.

Kimberly Hobbs Founder & Executive Director kimberly@womenworldleaders.com Ephesians 3:20

Carta de la Fundadora B

ienvenida al nuevo año 2022. Oro continuamente por ti, mi hermana. Muchas de nosotras hemos hecho propósitos de año nuevo, pero me pregunto cuántas han comenzado nuevas rutinas para acompañar esos objetivos, implementando alternativas que nos saquen de nuestra zona de confort por algo mejor. Si tienes o no, tengo una sugerencia que podría ser algo nuevo y bueno para ti. Es una buena noticia que puedas utilizar este año para combatir la oposición que pueda estar al acecho. Después de todo, la oposición puede venir sobre nosotros sin previo aviso y estar presente en diversas formas, tentándonos para arruinarnos. Este año, quiero desafiarte a que te enfoques en Dios,¡mantén tu rumbo y lee la Palabra de Dios todos los días! Es fácil descartar contratiempos o problemas diciendo: "Así es la vida; malas cosas pasan." Afortunadamente, las Escrituras hablan de nuestras batallas, reconociendo y señalando que estamos en una guerra espiritual y recordándonos que no estamos destinados a luchar solas. Dios está con nosotros. Debemos estar en guardia constantemente, sabiendo que hay fuerzas espirituales. Tratando de derrotarnos. Estas fuerzas están tratando de arruinar tus grandes intenciones, las nuevas resoluciones que puede haber hecho este año, y las rutinas saludables que has comenzado. Donde quiera que desees realizar cambios para mejorar, puedes estar segura de que habrá lucha. Debes estar alerta y prepárate. ¡Necesitas ser fuerte! En esta nueva etapa, te animo a que te alinees con lo que dice la Palabra de Dios con respecto a la fe, tu vida mental y física, los hábitos alimenticios o cualquier área que hayas resuelto mejorar en tu vida. Entonces, con la ayuda de Dios, puedes vencer cualquier cosa que se te presente. Pónte toda la armadura de Dios, como Él instruye en Efesios. “Pónganse toda la armadura de Dios para que puedan hacer frente a las artimañas del diablo. Porque nuestra lucha no es contra seres humanos, sino contra poderes, contra

autoridades, contra potestades que dominan este mundo de tinieblas, contra fuerzas espirituales malignas en las regiones celestiales. Por lo tanto, pónganse toda la armadura de Dios, para que cuando llegue el día malo puedan resistir hasta el fin con firmeza. Manténganse firmes, ceñidos con el cinturón de la verdad, protegidos por la coraza de justicia, y calzados con la disposición de proclamar el evangelio de la paz. Además de todo esto, tomen el escudo de la fe, con el cual pueden apagar todas las flechas encendidas del maligno. Tomen el casco de la salvación y la espada del Espíritu, que es la palabra de Dios. Oren en el Espíritu en todo momento, con peticiones y ruegos. Manténganse alerta y perseveren en oración por todos los santos. (Efesios 6:11-18 NIV) Este año, puedes acceder a ese poder y protección que la Palabra de Dios te dice que seas consciente diariamente. Todo está en la armadura. Te equipará y te dará conocimiento, instrucción y mayor fe. Al orar y poner toda la armadura de Dios, no enfrentarás tus batallas sola. En cambio, Dios te equipará como Su princesa guerrera, fuerte y empoderada en la fe. Con este equipo puesto, estarás lista para enfrentar este nuevo año, la nueva etapa y permanecer firme contra todo lo que venga a desviar tu determinación. ¡En Women World Leaders, estamos aquí para animarte, orar por ti y embarcarte en nuevas aventuras llenas de sabiduría, enseñanzas, pensamientos cautivadores y ediciones piadosos de la revista Voice of Truth 2022! Que juntas nos preparemos con Su Verdad y Su Amor mientras leemos fielmente Su Palabra, la Santa Biblia. Toda la gloria sea para Dios por las grandes cosas que está haciendo y hará en nosotras y por medio de nosotras.

Kimberly Hobbs Founder & Executive Director kimberly@womenworldleaders.com Ephesians 3:20

To be good stewards of the money God provides and due to rising costs of paper and postage, we wish to continue this magazine for free to only those who wish to continue receiving it and can not pay for a subscription. This will be your last edition of Voice of Truth unless you re-subscribe now. It will still be free of charge to you if you re-subscribe but anything you can give to help continue keeping this magazine free for others will be helpful. Re-subscribe on our website at womenworldleaders.com/voice-of-truth. We pray you are blessed by this publication. Please re-subscribe now and don't miss our next beautiful edition.

Celebrating a Year of Completion! "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." (Proverbs 16:3 NIV)

CONTENT

Gospel Grace - Anita Setran (with Spanish version)

Writings from the Global Office - WWL Staff

Ever Interceding - Diana Brown

Reluctant Purpose - Rebecca Rogers Nelson

Three Strands - Cindy Jacob Southworth

Dear Sister - Dr. Jia Conway

A Focus on Him - Lillian Cucuzza

Take up the Cross - Lynne Hudson

A Purposed Creation - Kerri Bridges

Beside Still Waters - Rusanne Jourdan

Holy Hush - Deborah Watson

Power Points: God at Work Through Women Leaders Yesterday and Today - Leecy Barnett

Be Free (Front Cover Art) - Lynne Hudson (with Spanish version)

Through a Mother's Eyes - Diane Cheveldayoff

Coffee Chats - Tina Kadolph with Love Missions

College Courage - Sarah Jenkins

Journeying with Jesus: Nuggets from the Gospel of Mark - Rev. Lisa Morrison

Light at the End of the Tunnel - Jessica Morneault

Change Your Story with Kirstin Leigh - Kirstin Leigh

Leaving a Godly Legacy - Kathleen Barrett

Following the Son - Michelle Hughes

Musings on the Book of John - Connie Hecker

TS 68

Prayers for the Sons of the King - Dr. Jia Conway

A Beautiful Mess - Jessica Prukner

Praise and Worship - Lynne Hudson

Faith and Family - Donna Whartenby

Living a Holystic Life - Melissa Kessler

The Forgotten Fathers - Victoria Robinson

Walk with Me - Lynne Hudson

Faith Walk: The Physician’s Touch - Dr. Chidi Kalu

Nonna's kNOWledge - Carolyn Joy

Tea Time with Tina - Tina Gallo

Courage in Action - Dr.’s Jennie Cerullo and Marcia Ball with Kerus Global

Voice of Truth Stories

WWL Global Connections

Voice of Truth Credits Kimberly Hobbs - VOT Founder & WWL Executive Director

Janet Berrong - Encouragement Team

Carrie Christopher - VOT Co-founder

Arlene Salas - Giving Acknowledgments

Julie Jenkins - WWL Teaching Leader, VOT Editor

Johana Torres - Spanish Translator

Diane Cheveldayoff - Leadership Director and Finance Kayla Follin - Graphic Designer Kelley Walker Daniels - Editor Kerri Bridges - Editor Lisa Morrison - Editor Rachel Dube - Editor Dana Reeves - Administration & Mailing Jessica Morneault - Photography Co-Management

This ministry is flourishing by an army of Women World Leaders. Many thanks to: Cindy Southworth, Diane Cheveldayoff, Dr. Jia Conway, Lynne Hudson, Cakki Warren, Diana Brown, Lois Daley, Martine Henry, Michele Hughes, Tina Gallo, Yvette Behmer, Dr. Chidi Kalu, Candice Daniel, Rusanne Jourdan, Lillian Cucuzza, Connie Van Horn, Sara Sahm, and Carol Whipkey

GOSPEL GRACE Is This It? B Y A N I TA S E T R A N I wonder what I am going to be when I grow up. Did you ever think or say this when you were young? Or maybe, like me, you have continued to say it year after year, through your teens, twenties, thirties, forties, and now, for me, knocking on fifty’s door. Jesus has always been the center of my world. At the age of 16, I dedicated my life to full-time ministry and have now served in full-time missions for 24 years. I brought up my children in full-time ministry. Very similar to how I was raised. I’ve had the privilege of leading young men and women, training and sending people on outreach missions, and investing in new ministries. I am grateful for the life I’ve lived, and yet through it all, I still found myself thinking, I wonder what I am going to be when I grow up. So, I prayed, God, have your way in my life. It’s not that I haven’t lived a full life. I got married at 20 to my best friend, and we will celebrate our 30th anniversary in September. We have three beautiful children. Our eldest son is now married to a beautiful, Christian young lady. Our middle daughter has just graduated from college, making the Dean’s List every semester. And our youngest daughter, Kiersten, is our very special gift that we get to keep forever! Our precious baby girl just turned 18, and she has Down Syndrome. In the depths of my heart, I always knew, yet also feared, that I would have a child with special needs. You see, I had three precious uncles who each had special needs and learning disabilities. They were not diagnosed during their childhood, but it was evident that they were different. However, they were special. And they were mine. They loved me unconditionally, and I loved them. I knew that my childhood years of living near them, caring for them, and protecting them had prepared me for this divine task of special needs motherhood. Kiersten needed open-heart surgery at nine weeks old to repair a very large hole in her heart. Just days after the surgery, while still in the hospital, she split open her sternum bone due to severe vomiting requiring a second surgery to open her chest and repair the sternum. In the months to come, her heart healed perfectly. Over the next eight years, however, Kiersten would require seven additional surgeries for her hearing and other needs. It felt like the doctor appointments, lab work, and hospital visits would never end. Eventually, however, things settled down, and life continued. I wondered, Is this it? Is this my calling, my purpose?? We prayed, God’s will be done.

Years later, we marched as a family in Washington DC at the March For Life with a group called KIDS, Keep Infants With Down Syndrome. It was wonderful and fulfilling. We participated in this event a few consecutive years, and I wondered, Is this it? Is this what I have been waiting for? We prayed and trusted God with each open door. In 1992, my father, Nick Savoca, founded a new ministry called Prayer Stations. It is a profoundly simple concept. A red and white banner printed with the words “Prayer Station” is hung above a white table and displayed on a sidewalk so that pedestrians approaching from either direction can see it. We started this ministry in New York City to provide free prayer to anyone in need. It’s disarming - who doesn’t need prayer? After all, prayer and God’s faithfulness were the themes of our lives. Immediately following the destruction of the World Trade Center in New York City by terrorists on 9/11/2001, Prayer Stations expanded its ministry to rally Christians from around the country and the world to come and pray for our fellow New Yorkers. We set up as many as 14 Prayer Stations around the perimeter of Ground Zero and had them available six days a week for a full year following the devastating events. As a ministry, we prayed for over 50,000 people in that year alone and saw more than 3,000 individuals give their lives to Christ. Miracles happened on the streets. Prayer really does change things. In the years that followed, we continued to use this amazing tool of Prayer Stations in New York City, praying for the needs of people and witnessing salvations and other miracles that happened before our very own eyes. In addition, churches and ministries that had served with us during the year following 9/11 began to reach out and ask if they could purchase a Prayer Station for their own communities. At that point, we began to manufacture Prayer Stations to send around the country. We also had the banners translated into 12 different languages as requests came in from around the world. As a leader in our ministry, I trained young people and sent them out on the mission field all over the globe. It was beautiful, yet often challenging. I was honored to mentor young men and women and see lives transformed. And I wondered, Is this it? Is this my life’s calling? So I prayed and asked the Lord, Is this the thing? Is this what I have been praying for? Then this past summer, 2021, my husband and I almost lost our lives to Covid. People were praying for us all over the world. It’s a long and miraculous story, which you can read about by going to our website, www.sparknewlife.com. Through it, God opened more doors for ministry - only this time, instead of asking my usual question (Is this it?), I finally began

GOSPEL GRACE CONT.

to see how it was ALL IT! I saw how God had woven this beautiful pattern of lessons and experiences into my life. I had been fulfilling my purpose all along. He carried me when I was weak. He opened new doors of opportunities when I least expected it. He healed our daughter’s heart. He challenged us to trust His faithfulness and step out into new avenues of ministry. He gave us back our lives, and in turn, we will spend every day to our last breath living for Him and doing whatever the next assignment happens to be. We have been living out His purposes every single day!

WOW! THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE LOVES YOU SO MUCH AND HAS A PURPOSE FOR YOUR LIFE - WHETHER YOU HAVE BEEN AWARE OF HIM THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFE OR HAVE BEEN RUNNING FROM HIM FOR AS LONG AS YOU CAN REMEMBER.

This is what I know: God has a purpose for your life. My favorite life scripture is Jeremiah 29:11, “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’” (NIV) The Bible also says in Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations.” (NIV) Wow! The God of the universe loves you so much and has a purpose for your life - whether you have been aware of Him throughout your life or have been running from Him for as long as you can remember. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you or forsake you.” (NIV) Genesis 1:26-27 tells us that God created us in His image and likeness. Webster’s Dictionary says that an image is

a duplicate of something else, and that to be made in the likeness of someone else means you possess many, but not all, the characteristics of that person. Only humans are created in God’s image and likeness. We are daughters of the creator of the universe, and we possess His characteristics. He has given us a soul, a spirit, the desire for relationship, free will, reign over the earth, wisdom, knowledge, and the ability to discern between right and wrong. He’s given us hearts of love and compassion. It’s easy to look around our world today and wonder whether or not these giftings are really given to everyone. The truth is that they are, but unfortunately, people have chosen, with their God-given free will, to turn from God and His purpose for their life. We have an enemy, and his name is Satan. Jesus says in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (NIV) Our enemy desires to destroy us, to take us off course from God’s beautiful purpose for our lives. But

don’t forget about the end of that verse, which says that He came that we might have life - abundant life!! I have good news! It’s never too late for you - whether you are young or have been around for a while - God is a loving and redemptive God. He loves His kids, and you are welcome into His family because of the gift of His perfect and precious son, Jesus, who laid down His life as a sacrifice for our sins. We are told in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (NIV) We only need to accept His love and forgiveness, and He will make us whole and set us on a path of true purpose, one where you will never have to ask again, Is this it? Isn’t our God awesome?!

DE GRACIA DEL EVANGELIO ¿Es esto? P O R A N I TA S E T R A N

¿Alguna vez pensaste o dijiste esto cuando eras joven? O tal vez, como yo, has seguido diciéndolo año tras año, durante tu adolescencia, veinte, treinta, cuarenta y ahora, para mí, llamando a la puerta de los cincuenta.

cómo me criaron. He tenido el privilegio de liderar a hombres y mujeres jóvenes, capacitar y enviar personas a actividades de divulgación e invertir en nuevos ministerios. Estoy agradecida por la vida que he vivido y, sin embargo, a pesar de todo, todavía me encuentro pensando, me pregunto qué seré cuando sea mayor. Entonces, oré, A Dios, haz lo que quieras en mi vida.

Jesús siempre ha sido el centro de mi mundo. A la edad de 16 años, dediqué mi vida al ministerio de tiempo completo y ahora he servido en misiones de tiempo completo durante 24 años. Crié a mis hijos en el ministerio de tiempo completo. Muy similar a

No es que no haya vivido una vida plena. Me casé a los 20 con mi mejor amigo y celebraremos nuestro 30 aniversario en Septiembre. Tenemos tres hijos hermosos. Nuestro hijo mayor ahora está casado con una hermosa joven cristiana. Nuestra hija mediana se

Me pregunto qué seré cuando sea mayor.

acaba de graduar de la universidad y está en la Lista del Decano cada semestre. ¡Y nuestra hija menor, Kiersten, es nuestro regalo muy especial que podemos guardar para siempre! Nuestra preciosa niña acaba de cumplir 18 años y tiene síndrome de Down. En lo más profundo de mi corazón, siempre supe, pero también temí, que tendría un hijo con necesidades especiales. Veras, tuve tres tíos preciosos, cada uno de los cuales tenía necesidades especiales y problemas de aprendizaje. No fueron diagnosticados durante su niñez, pero era evidente que eran diferentes. Sin embargo, eran especiales. Y eran míos. Me amaban incondicionalmente y yo los amaba. Sabía que mis años de infancia viviendo cerca de ellos, cuidándolos y protegiéndolos me habían preparado para esta tarea divina de la maternidad con necesidades especiales. Kiersten necesitó una cirugía a corazón abierto a las nueve semanas de edad para reparar un agujero muy grande en su corazón. Apenas unos días después de la cirugía, mientras aún estaba en el hospital, se abrió el hueso del esternón debido a vómitos intensos, lo que requirió una segunda cirugía para abrir el pecho y

reparar el esternón. En los meses siguientes, su corazón se curó perfectamente. Sin embargo, durante los próximos ocho años, Kiersten necesitaría siete cirugías adicionales para su audición y otras necesidades. Parecía que las citas con el médico, los análisis de laboratorio y las visitas al hospital nunca terminarían. Sin embargo, finalmente las cosas se calmaron y la vida continuó. Me preguntaba, ¿Es esto? ¿Es esta mi vocación, mi propósito? Oramos, se haga la voluntad de Dios. Años más tarde, marchamos como familia en Washington DC en la Marcha por la vida con un grupo llamado KIDS, Keep Infants With Down Syndrome. Fue maravilloso y satisfactorio. Participamos en este evento algunos años consecutivos y me preguntaba, ¿Es esto? ¿Es esto lo que estaba esperando? Oramos y confiamos en Dios con cada puerta abierta. En 1992, mi padre, Nick Savoca, fundó un nuevo ministerio llamado Prayer Stations. Es un concepto profundamente simple. Una pancarta roja y blanca impresa con las palabras “Estación de oración” se cuelga sobre una mesa blanca y se exhibe en una acera para que los peatones que se acercan desde cualquier dirección

DE GRACIA DEL EVANGELIO CONT.

puedan verla. Comenzamos este ministerio en la ciudad de Nueva York para brindar oración gratuita a todos los necesitados. Es desarmador, ¿quién no necesita la oración? Después de todo, la oración y la fidelidad de Dios fueron los temas de nuestras vidas.

ME PREGUNTABA, ¿ES ESTO? ¿ES ESTA MI VOCACIÓN, MI PROPÓSITO? ORAMOS, SE HAGA LA VOLUNTAD DE DIOS.

Inmediatamente después de la destrucción del World Trade Center en la ciudad de Nueva York por terroristas el 11 de septiembre de 2001, Prayer Stations expandió su ministerio para reunir a cristianos de todo el país y del mundo para que vinieran y oraran por nuestros compañeros neoyorquinos. Instalamos hasta 14 estaciones de oración alrededor del perímetro de la Zona Cero y las tuvimos disponibles seis días a la semana durante un año completo después de los devastadores eventos. Como ministerio, oramos por más de 50,000 personas solo en ese año y vimos a más de 3,000 personas entregar sus vidas a Cristo. Los milagros ocurrieron en las calles. La oración realmente cambia las cosas. En los años que siguieron, continuamos usando esta increíble herramienta de las estaciones de oración en la ciudad de Nueva York, orando por las necesidades de las personas y presenciando salvaciones y otros milagros que sucedieron ante nuestros propios ojos. Además, las iglesias y ministerios que habían servido con nosotros durante el año posterior al 11 de septiembre comenzaron a acercarse y preguntar si podían comprar una estación de oración para sus propias comunidades. En ese momento, comenzamos a fabricar estaciones de oración para enviar a todo el país. También hicimos traducir los carteles a 12 idiomas diferentes a medida que llegaban solicitudes de todo el mundo. Como líder de nuestro ministerio, capacité a jóvenes y los envié al campo en misiones por todo el mundo. Era hermoso, pero a menudo desafiante. Tuve el honor de ser mentor de hombres y mujeres jóvenes y ver vidas transformadas. Y me preguntaba, ¿Es esto? ¿Es este el

llamado de mi vida? Entonces oré y le pregunté al Señor: ¿Es esto? ¿Es esto por lo que he estado orando? Luego, el verano pasado de 2021, mi esposo y yo casi perdimos la vida por culpa de Covid. La gente estaba orando por nosotros en todo el mundo. Es una historia larga y milagrosa, sobre la que puede leer en nuestro sitio web, www.sparknewlife.com. A través de él, Dios abrió más puertas para el ministerio, solo que esta vez, en lugar de hacer mi pregunta habitual (¿es esto?), ¡Finalmente comencé a ver cómo era TODO! Vi cómo Dios había tejido este hermoso patrón de lecciones y experiencias en mi vida. Había estado cumpliendo mi propósito todo el tiempo. Me cargó cuando estaba débil. Abrió nuevas puertas de oportunidades cuando menos lo esperaba. Sanó el corazón de nuestra hija. Nos desafió a confiar en su fidelidad y a dar un paso hacia nuevas vías del ministerio. Él nos devolvió nuestras vidas y, a su vez, pasaremos todos los días hasta nuestro último aliento viviendo para Él y haciendo lo que sea que sea la próxima asignación. ¡Hemos estado viviendo Sus propósitos todos los días! Esto es lo que sé: Dios tiene un propósito para tu vida. La escritura favorita de mi vida es Jeremías 29:11, “'Porque yo sé muy bien los planes que tengo para ustedes', afirma el Señor, 'planes de bienestar y no de calamidad, a fin de darles un futuro y una esperanza'” ( NVI) La Biblia también dice en Jeremías 1:5, “Antes que de formarte en el vientre, ya te había elegido; antes que nacieras, ya te había apartado; te había nombrado profeta para las naciones ". (NVI) ¡Guau! El Dios del universo te ama tanto y tiene un propósito para tu vida, ya sea que hayas estado consciente de Él a lo largo de tu vida o hayas estado huyendo de Él desde que tienes memoria. Deuteronomio 31:6 dice: “Sean fuertes y valientes. No teman ni se asusten ante esas naciones, porque el Señor su Dios siempre los acompañará; nunca los dejará ni los abandonará”. (NVI) Génesis 1: 26-27 nos dice que Dios nos creó a Su imagen y semejanza. El diccionario Webster dice que una imagen es una duplicación de otra cosa, y que está hecha a semejanza de otra persona significa que posee muchas, pero no todas, las características de esa persona. Solo

los humanos fueron creados a imagen y semejanza de Dios. Somos hijas del creador del universo y poseemos sus características. Nos ha dado un alma, un espíritu, el deseo de tener una relación, el libre albedrío, el reinado sobre la tierra, la sabiduría, el conocimiento y la capacidad de discernir entre el bien y el mal. Nos ha dado corazones de amor y compasión. Es fácil mirar alrededor de nuestro mundo hoy en día y preguntarse si estos obsequios realmente se regalan a todos. La verdad es que lo son, pero desafortunadamente, las personas han elegido, con su libre albedrío dado por Dios, apartarse de Dios y de Su propósito para su vida. Tenemos un enemigo y su nombre es Satanás. Jesús dice en Juan 10:10: “El ladrón no viene más que robar, matar y destruir; yo he venido para que tengan vida y la tengan en abundancia.” (NVI) Nuestro enemigo desea destruirnos, desviarnos del hermoso propósito de Dios para nuestras vidas. Pero no te olvides del final de ese versículo, que dice que Él vino para que tuviéramos vida, ¡vida en abundancia!

¡GUAU! EL DIOS DEL UNIVERSO TE AMA TANTO Y TIENE UN PROPÓSITO PARA TU VIDA, YA SEA QUE HAYAS ESTADO CONSCIENTE DE ÉL A LO LARGO DE TU VIDA O HAYAS ESTADO HUYENDO DE ÉL DESDE QUE TIENES MEMORIA.

¡Tengo buenas noticias! Nunca es demasiado tarde para ti, ya sea que seas joven o hayas existido por un tiempo, Dios es un Dios amoroso y redentor. Él ama a sus hijos y eres bienvenida en su familia por el regalo de su perfecto y precioso hijo, Jesús, quien entregó su vida como sacrificio por nuestros pecados. Se nos dice en Juan 3:16, "Porque de tal manera amó Dios al mundo, que dio a su Hijo unigénito, para que todo el que crea en él no se pierda, mas tenga vida eterna." (NVI) Solo tenemos que aceptar Su amor y perdón, y Él nos sanará y nos pondrá en un camino con un propósito verdadero, uno en el que nunca tendrás que volver a preguntar: ¿Es este? ¡¿No es nuestro Dios maravilloso ?!

Writings from the Global Office “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” Ephesians 3:20 (KJV)

Empowering Lives with Purpose RESOLUTIONS

t the beginning of a new year, resolutions are made and excitement flies high with new goals and new beginnings. We anticipate all the greatness that will come from our decisions. But, as February dawns, or maybe even mere days into our resolution, life can get in the way of those resolutions. It is sad to say some feel discouraged only moments after they mentally resolve an upcoming action. The thought before the action may have been the tallest giant they never expected to face. Here is the key to a successful resolution: bathe your resolutions in prayer fortified by the Word of God. When we make our resolutions without prayer, we tell God that we are strong enough to do this without any help from Him. Are any of us so strong that we do not need to rely on God? If your resolutions are faltering as we move further into 2022, please do not give up! But you may need to reevaluate. For those who have prayed over your resolutions, you might be wondering if God heard you. I encourage you to reflect on if your commitment was a change to and for yourself, or did you ask God for His input? I encourage you to always include GOD in ANY RESOLUTION you make. If you have already started a resolution, evaluate how it is going. Did you include God, or did you just set your mind to it? Start over if you need to, but begin with God this time. It is never too late, and if you look to Him through the struggles of change, you will more fully recognize that He is right by your side, lending you a Word, a person, or a way to get through to accomplishing your resolve. In Isaiah 55, God promises us that His Word will always complete its task. Just like the rain and snow accomplish their purpose, God’s Word accomplishes His desires and achieves the purpose for which He sends it. That means there is POWER in praying God’s Word over our resolutions, especially when we feel the battle of change. It is difficult to break a bad habit or form a new routine. We cannot see in the quiet time of our prayer, but the words we raise to heaven are WEAPONS OF WARFARE. Because of your prayers, angels fight with demons to bring about God’s will.

"There is POWER in praying God’s Word over our resolutions, especially when we feel the battle of change."

God’s Word is “alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart,” as explained in Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

EMPOWERING LIVES WITH PURPOSE CONT.

The Word of God is a part of every Christian’s armor. We must carry the sword of the spirit, as instructed in Ephesians 6:17. God’s Word pierces everything it touches; it is never ineffective. That is why it is so important not to make RESOLUTIONS alone, without going to God. We need to pray and read our Bibles daily. There are so many ways we can access God’s Word and allow it to penetrate our hearts and minds. God gives us everything we need to tap into His POWER and stand in our RESOLUTIONS with strength. When you do, God promises wonderful things will happen. When we do not include God in our plan, my friends, it is like watching a war zone in a movie. We are shot at by the enemy from all directions, and sometimes we are even unaware of where the shots are coming from. When we pray and include God in our desired changes, He comes alongside us in the war zone, appropriating His power on our behalf. Do not doubt that the struggle is difficult, but please do not give up quickly if you feel the challenge upon you. Remember your goals and declare the Word of God in your prayers. By doing so, you will have a powerful weapon that no enemy or addiction can penetrate. I encourage you to press forward in making or keeping your RESOLUTIONS, even beginning them again if necessary. Our great Leader and Lover of your soul will guide you all the way. Daily I give my lifestyle and choices to God in prayer. The struggle is real, and it is daily. It is sometimes easier than other times, but we can be certain that with God’s help, we can always overcome our challenges. Praise God for that. My hope and prayer for you is that God would bring to your mind the resolution He asks in your life. Address it and act on it, but remember to always resolve with God alongside you.

Kimberly Hobbs Founder & Executive Director kimberly@womenworldleaders.com Ephesians 3:20

Love Notes I appreciate Voice of Truth magazine because it gives me hope. The articles touch my heart and feed my spirit. Watching the growth of this magazine shows me nothing short of divine intervention has occurred - praise God!! GINA DUDINSKY, CHARDON, OHIO

Biblical Profiles HANNAH My God can! If I were to attribute a theme to Hannah’s life, it would be My God can! Hannah’s story is told in 1 Samuel 1-2, which is fitting because Hannah is Samuel’s mother, so his story begins with hers. But Hannah wasn’t always a mother. When we meet her, she is married to Elkanah, who loves and adores her. But their marriage isn’t perfect. In fact, Elkanah took another wife somewhere along the line, likely because Hannah could not get pregnant. Although having more than one wife has never been prescribed by God, and this was a family who followed the Lord, Elkanah bowed to the societal pressures of finding a way to grow his family in response to financial or even status-related issues. And Elkanah’s other wife, Peninnah, had no problem getting pregnant, a fact she reveled in, giving her reason to look down on and disrespect Hannah. As a faithful family, they traveled together to Shiloh each year – a distance of about 14 miles – to worship the Lord. The trip should have been fulfilling and invigorating for Hannah, who loved the Lord, but because Peninnah treated her with jealous disdain, Hannah was miserable. Instead of biting back, Hannah (whose name means “woman of grace”) took her anguish and tears to God in full faith, knowing, My God can! While in the house of the Lord, Hannah poured out her heart, offering herself and her future motherhood to God. She prayed, asking that she would become pregnant with a son and vowing that if she did, she would offer

him to be set apart and consecrated to God for His use and purpose. The Nazirite vow, which Hannah made to the Lord on behalf of her not-yet-conceived son, was known to be made by individuals for a specific period of time. But Hannah, by praying to God that “no razor will ever be used on his head” (1 Sam 1:11 NIV), vowed that her son’s whole life would be given to the Lord. After discussing her prayer with her, Eli (the priest) offered Hannah his blessing saying, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant what you have asked of him.” (1 Sam 18 NIV) Scripture records that after her prayer and Eli’s blessing, Hannah was no longer downcast. I imagine, as she continued to worship the Lord and then headed home, her heart was singing, My God can! Not long after, Samuel was born to Hannah and Elkanah. Hannah remembered her vow and knew the time with her son would be short. She spent the three years before he was weaned giving Samuel a home filled with love for the Lord and preparing him to give his whole life to God. And I’m guessing she was also preparing herself – to hand Samuel, the child she had longed and prayed for, over to Eli, the priest. Eli did not have a stellar reputation as a father, but Hannah understood that she would be entrusting her son not to Eli but to God Himself – HER God. The God who can. 19

BIBLICAL PROFILES CONT.

It isn’t easy to imagine such a scenario! Maybe you’ve waited a long time for a child. Perhaps you, like Hannah, cried out to God for His mercy. Who could imagine being given such a precious gift only to turn around and give it back to God?

"Like Hannah, we can trust God. He loves our children even more than we do. He knows the plans He has for them – plans to give them a hope and a future!"

And yet, if you are a parent, you may understand that that is exactly what God calls us to do. Hannah is our example of selfless motherhood. Hannah knew the Lord’s heart regarding her child, and she obeyed. Hannah gave years of her life praying and longing for a child, then spent Samuel’s first three years teaching and loving him. And then she let him go - allowing him to live the life that God intended for him all along. For most parents, the letting-go process is more gradual – most of us aren’t asked to give our child to a priest at the tender age of three. Yet we ARE asked to let go! Parents pour themselves out for their children and then begin to loosen the reins. Giving them back to God and trusting Him to care for, love, protect, guide, and nurture them. And we can. Because Our God can! The day Hannah gave Samuel over to Eli, she praised God in prayer! “My heart rejoices…there is no one holy like the Lord.” Hannah extolled the Lord as her solid rock who is wise, sovereign, and just. (1 Sam 2:1-10 NIV) In essence, shouting for all to hear: My God can!

Like Hannah, we can trust God. He loves our children even more than we do. He knows the plans He has for them – plans to give them a hope and a future! He understands their yearnings, desires, and callings. Hannah didn’t ever abandon Samuel. She saw him every year and brought him a new robe every time she saw him. Hannah loved Samuel, but she loved God even more. And she trusted Him – and we can, too, because Our God can!

Julie Jenkins Teaching and Curriculum Leader julie@womenworldleaders.com

WOMEN WORLD LEADERS MINISTRY PRESENTS

Victories:

CLAIMING FREEDOM IN CHRIST

God is awakening warriors within the body of Christ to step up and be heard. As overcomers in Christ Jesus live their lives with boldness and courage, God unleashes freedom and power to defeat the enemy, and the devil is reminded over and over that Jesus has victoriously conquered death. We need not worry or be anxious in any of our trials or tragedies in life because God's Word is clear that He will give us the victory. "Yet even in the midst of all these things, we triumph over them all, for God has made us to be more than conquerors, and His demonstrated love is our glorious victory over everything." (Romans 8:37 TPT) Victories: Claiming Freedom in Christ presents expository teaching coupled with individual stories that testify to battles conquered victoriously through the power of Jesus Christ. The words in this book will motivate and inspire you and give you hope as God awakens you to your victory!

www.worldpublishingandproductions.com/shop Proceeds will support the Women World Leader’s mission.

EVER INTERCEDING Praying the Blessing BY DIANA BROWN

o you desire to pray effectively over your loved ones? Do you hear others pray these long, articulate prayers and wonder if their prayers are better? Thankfully, praying over someone is uncomplicated and no articulateness is necessary. Remember one simple truth: when you pray over someone, you are ever interceding, or pleading, on their behalf. When you intercede, you are placing yourself between the other person and God, pleading to God on their behalf. That is a significant place to be. If you want to take your prayer life up a level, I encourage you to pray scripture over the matter of your prayers. God’s Word is powerful. Through His Word, He created the world. He said the simple words, “Let there be light,” and light appeared. So it was with the rest of creation. The power of his Word is echoed in Isaiah 55:11, (ESV) “...so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” There is power in His words, and thankfully we can use those words in our prayers.

In the book, “The Blessing,” Gary Smalley and John Trent teach us how to pray God’s blessing over our loved ones and friends. It is a blessing for us to bless others and IF YOU WANT TO TAKE YOUR PRAYER LIFE fulfill the biblical admonition to “let your speech always UP A LEVEL, I ENCOURAGE YOU TO PRAY be gracious” (Colossians 4:6 ESV) and to “encourage one SCRIPTURE OVER THE MATTER OF YOUR another and build one another up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 PRAYERS. GOD’S WORD IS POWERFUL. ESV). Along with the honor of interceding for others, it is especially powerful to pray specific “blessing prayers” from Scripture over our loved ones, friends, church family and, yes, even our “enemies.” Not only has God commanded us to pray for others, but He has also given us numerous ways to do so that please His heart and align with His kingdom purposes.

HERE ARE SOME VERSES FROM GOD’S WORD OF BLESSING PRAYERS TO PRAY FOR OTHERS:

Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate ________ from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans. 8:39 ESV) How great is the love the Father has lavished on _________________, that _________ should be called a child of God! (I John 3:1 ESV) The Lord your God is with you, __________, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in __________; in His love He will no long rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17 ESV) I have loved _________________ with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued my faithfulness to _________________. (Jeremiah 31:3 ESV) For God gave _________________ a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. (II Timothy 1:7 ESV) Through each day the LORD pours His unfailing love upon _________________, and through each night, _________________, sing His songs, praying to God who gives you life. (Psalm 42:8 ESV)

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous _________________. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. ( Joshua 1:9 ESV) Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding, _________________. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5,6 ESV) You are no longer a foreigner or alien, _________________, but a fellow citizen with God’s people and a member of God’s own family. (Psalm 130:7,8 ESV) Come to Me, _________________. You are tired from carrying a heavy burden, but I will give you rest. Yoke up with Me, for I am gentle and humble, and you will find rest for your soul. For My yoke is easy to wear and My burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV paraphrased) May you, _________________, be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy. (Colossians 1:11 ESV)

It is always good to pray blessings for and over others. What an incredible way to love them and to show that love! In 2022, I encourage you to pray scripture over your loved ones, friends, and anyone that the Lord places in your path. What an honor we have to be ever interceding in others’ lives with His powerful Word! I am praying the following over you: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26 ESV) Father God, Thank you for Your great love and blessing over our lives. Thank You that Your favor has no end, but it lasts for our entire lifetime. Forgive us for, at times, forgetting that You are deeply aware of all of our ways, that You know what concerns us, and that You cover us, as with a shield. We ask for Your help, so that we might walk fully in Your blessing and goodness today and every day. We ask that Your face would shine on us, that You would open and close doors as You see fit in our lives. Establish the work of our hands to accomplish all that You have given us to do in our day. We pray that You would make our way purposeful and our footsteps firm in Your goodness and love. Give us hearts of wisdom to hear, follow, and obey Your voice. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

RELUCTANT PURPOSE Part 2 REBECCA ROGERS NELSON: SCREENWRITER, PRODUCER, ACTRESS AT B E A U T I F U L F E E T P R O D U C T I O N S

y heart was pounding! My husband said “yes” to fostering a little 18-month-old boy. I was excited! We had just sat through an eight-hour seminar on the pitfalls and challenges of adopting through the U.S. Foster Care system, but I didn’t care. There was a little boy who needed us! And we couldn’t wait to meet him. We explained to our two-year-old birth son, as best we could, that a little boy would be joining our family— for now, at least. Okay, I have to address the obvious question – How in the world could we put our precious little boy through the ordeal of falling in love with a younger sibling just to have that sibling potentially taken away by a family member who surfaces at the last minute? Honestly, it was hard. We asked that same question to another Christian adoptive parent. Their answer: “Don’t you think that God loves your son as much as He loves you? If you are in obedience, God will take care of your son’s heart no matter what happens.” James 1:27 states that pure religion is to look after the widow and the orphan. Doing so sounds like obedience to me. That said, each person must pray specifically and decide what that looks like for their own family. For ours, it seemed like God was nudging us to move forward. That is when we met our beautiful, brown-eyed boy. He was adorable, and the two boys became best buds fast!

Soon after, we learned that birth mom was six months pregnant. Not only were we agreeing to foster the boy, we would also be blessed with a newborn baby in about four months. We were overwhelmed with joy — and fear. We prayed. Hard. Our beautifully perfect girl was born. We were overwhelmed with love for our quickly growing family. We were also overwhelmed with birth parents’ visitations, social worker visits, doctor’s appointments and court room appearances for the legal placement process for the children. We were quickly becoming well-versed in the government process of adoption. Honestly? It felt invasive and scary. We had to hold our children close, care for them — and absolutely without reservation, love them — but at the same time, we knew we might have to give them up. Side bar — most know that parenting is not easy. Adoptive parenting is no different. In fact, any time we obey God, we expect the enemy to double down. We have to fight! The way to do that is through prayer— lots of it. Transparency with family and friends while in the process is advised. The more prayer, the better! My husband and I proceeded through the almost twoyear process of court dates and multiple chances for the birth parents to get their act together and parent

their children. Of course, we always wanted what was best for the children, but in our selfish heart of hearts, we thought we were the best choice. The reality is, sometimes birth parents DO get their act together and are reunited with their children. As gut-wrenching as that is as foster parents, we trust that the time with our foster kids is enough to make an impact. We teach them love, compassion, and hope! We teach them Jesus! And we pray that foundation stays. Several months after our little girl joined our family, we had one more surprise. Birth mom announced she was pregnant again! Thirteen months later, we were blessed with another little girl. About this time, the court decided we would be forever parents to these children. My husband and I were the proud parents of four children, five years old and under! What a sight we were walking through our neighborhood: double stroller, scooters and, a big German Shepherd dog thrown in the mix! “You’re a parade!” one neighbor commented. Indeed, that’s what it felt like — or a circus! God is so fun! Without our intent or design, we became a poster family or a beacon for fostering to adopt. People asked us how they, too, could adopt through foster care. We spoke at churches about our experience. We met with couples struggling with infertility or other roadblocks for starting or growing their family.

starring Kirk Cameron, is the next Kendrick Brother’s project and will be in theaters spring of 2022.

GOD IS SO FUN! WITHOUT OUR INTENT OR DESIGN, WE BECAME A POSTER FAMILY OR A BEACON FOR FOSTERING TO ADOPT.

I did not choose this path for growing our family but, praise God, He did! Adoption has not been easy. Now that my children are hitting their teen years, adoption questions surface even more. We pray every day for guidance and answers for our children. We continue to speak about adoption and share the joys and the struggles with true transparency. Even with challenges and clear attacks from the enemy, we would not trade our family or the path to becoming our family — for anything! Rebecca Rogers Nelson is an actress, screenwriter, and producer. She and her husband, Durrell Nelson, own Beautiful Feet Productions and make films that promote family, celebrate redemption and reflect a Judeo-Christian worldview. On the home front, Rebecca is passionate about adoption and raising awareness for the plight of “homeland orphans.” www.beautifulfeetproductions.com Rebecca@beautifulfeetproductions.com

It’s interesting how life comes full circle. In addition to being a mom, I’m an actress. I just finished what I consider to be the role of a lifetime! I played the adoptive mom of an eighteen-year-old son who decides to find his birth parents. Ironic? I think not. God continues to spread awareness for adoption! Stay tuned as this film,

A Call to Writers You may be a published Author, a first time writer, or one who just desires to be used by God. Here is your opportunity to be the vessel He uses in one of this years multiple books being produced by Women World Leaders and World Publishing and Productions! • Have you battled something in your life

and continued with forward motion in the presence of fear? • Have you stepped out of relationship with God in your past only to learn your life is better fully surrendered to Him? • Have you undeniably watched God move in your life or the life of one you love?

We've all battled challenges, changes, and redirection in our lives. Your story and how you've overcome adversities with God could be the inspiration someone else needs to get through their difficulties. By reading your story of power and might with all glory given to God, others can receive hope and help in their present circumstances. God says, "I declare from the beginning how it will end and foretell from the start what has not yet happened. I declare that my purpose will stand, and I will fulfill my every plan." (Isaiah 46:10 TPT) You could be the person God uses to fulfill a plan, not only in your own life, but in the life of another by sharing your story.

Let us help you as we walk a journey alongside you and many other courageous women who are saying "Yes, Lord, here I am, send me." Throughout this year we will encourage you, guide you, and edit your work to completion inside one of the multiple books we have coming out for 2022. Women World Leaders is praying for anyone world-wide who God may be nudging at this moment. Remember, He will use a willing heart and we will help you with the rest! Please share this opportunity with anyone God places on your heart that may have a story to share. We all have a story and YOURS may be one of the many shared this year. One of our books coming in winter of 2022 is: "Surrendered: Yielded With Purpose." Whether it be this book or one of our other books launching this year, we pray God speaks to your heart to share your story. If you are saying "yes," then don't delay and contact us before April 30, 2022 to be part of the team.

CONTACT: Kimberly Hobbs kimberly@womenworldleaders.com

or Julie Jenkins julie@womenworldleaders.com

THREE STRANDS Do You Have Vertigo In Your Marriage? BY CINDY JACOB SOUTHWORTH

ilots are trained to depend on their instruments, not their senses. If a pilot loses sight due to inclement weather or other environmental conditions, he must stay focused on his instruments or risk experiencing vertigo. This can occur when the pilot loses the ability to determine his direction, relying on his senses instead of instrumentation. He temporarily forgets the truth he sees on the navigation panel and allows his sensations to guide him. Sometimes we can experience “vertigo” or an imbalance in our marriage. We lose sight of the commitments we made in the beginning – to love and cherish, to overlook faults, to take care of the weak and the sick, to protect and provide for each other, to put each other first, and to stay together for life. Let’s face it – life gets tough sometimes. Bills, conflicts, unmet expectations, extended illness, unplanned pregnancy, isolation, and job loss are just a few examples of issues that can cause an imbalance in marriage. The sensations can cause us to feel like we are an unwanted, unloved, failing, imperfect person who either doesn’t need or deserve the other person we are doing life with. Our sensations tell us we would be better off alone; we fail to see the new complications that will certainly appear if we make that choice. We allow our feelings to dictate our choices rather than our beliefs and convictions. The result is vertigo – the feeling that we are out of balance, and with it, chaos ensues. The result is unhappiness in the marriage and a belief that “nothing will ever change.” We tell ourselves that “no one would believe it is this bad,” and “nobody would understand.” This results in more isolation that further fuels the “vertigo.” The Word of God will help us regain our balance. In Ecclesiastes 4:12, King Solomon shares with us: “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” If we put our focus on the Lord and let Him guide us through the

situation that is causing us to feel imbalanced, He will direct our path. We can ask our spouse to pray with us and rely on God to see us through the situation. While our circumstances may not change immediately, our beliefs can change, causing us to trust that there will be a light at the end of the tunnel. No matter what the issue is, it does not have to define us. We can take our focus off our feelings and choose to focus on the instrument panel – the Word of God. We can build on the foundational principles of marriage God has given us. We can focus on resources that will strengthen our relationship. We can spend time with our spouse creating a vision for our marriage, and work at building unity with him. We can focus on having fun and talk about common goals that unite us – goals like prayer, regular communication, emotional connection, and serving together. The good news is we are not alone. Seeking help from a wise couple who has been through a similar experience or counsel from a professional coach or counselor will strengthen our relationships. We can trust that God will sustain us through our difficult season, and we will grow stronger together. Take pride in what you have accomplished and celebrate together. Exercise your faith and pray together. Marriage was meant to last a lifetime. If you put these principles into practice, you will find a healthy balance that brings new life and joy into your marriage. Cindy Jacob Southworth, M.S. Counseling Studies, AACC Certified Relationship Coach, and Women World Leaders Leadership Team. She and her husband David have been in full-time marriage ministry since 2005 and pioneered the Marriage 911 intensive, women’s BreakThrough retreats, and the UP Leadership program that prepares couples for marriage ministry. Recently retired in central Florida, they devote their time now to writing, developing leaders for ministry, and enjoying their nine grandchildren. Contact Cindy at Cindysporch@ gmail.com or www.breakwaterministries.com

“You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.” (Psalm 139:3 NKJV)

Dear Sister, The very design of your being rests in the hands of the Almighty God. He has known every detail of who you are before anyone else knew of your existence. There is nothing about you that is new to God. You cannot recreate that which has already been created, but you can perfect her. It is a perfection beyond the scope of your make-up, the clothes you wear, or the car you drive. It is a divine perfection that sculpts you from the inside out. It is a mental transformation that brings you into alignment with the thoughts of God. Align your thoughts and actions with those of God, the God that knows your sitting down and rising up. You don’t need anyone else’s permission. God understands you! He knows every step you desire to take and will take, and He has your back. He shares a place of intimacy with you that is irreplaceable. The very course of your life is being directed by a God who knows you inside and out. Trust the God of your hopes, dreams, talents, and gifts. Trust in the faithfulness of God. To Him who alone does great wonders, for His mercy endures forever. Love You,

Dr. Jia

A FOCUS ON HIM It’s 2022 - Are You Ready? PHOTO AND WRITING BY LILLIAN CUCUZZA

hile scanning the skies watching for the bald eagle to make another appearance over the lake, I heard a big splash! Immediately turning toward the splash, I missed a photo opportunity of an osprey diving into the lake, snatching a fish, and emerging with its prize! I got the photo of the osprey with the fish in its claws after the fact. But I missed the opportunity for a great series of shots because it caught me by surprise, and I was not ready! I was looking for something else that I thought was better. Instantly I realized it would be the nexus for this article. It made me wonder how many people will miss the moment when Jesus comes back for His bride, the church, because they were caught by surprise and not ready.

Jesus warns in Matthew 24:37-44 (NIV) that no one knows the hour or the day of His return, which is why we need to be ready now! Jesus says, As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him. We are to be expectant and prepared, watching the signs of the times, just like we watch the weather for storms. When asked by the disciples in Luke 21:7-11 (NIV) …when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place? He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” Then He said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” We are hearing of more wars, uprisings (even in our own nations), earthquakes, famines, and pestilences (i.e., Corona Virus) than ever before. Could these all be signs of the end times? No one knows, but we need to be ready. Jesus also warned us in Matthew 24:23-25 (NIV) to be careful and not be deceived. He said, At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘There He is!’ do not believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you ahead of time.

So how do you prepare? Put your trust in Jesus Christ alone as your personal Savior today, and lead others to do the same. As the apostle Paul says in Romans 10:9 (NIV), If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. It is a one-time decision in your heart. You can never lose your salvation, nor can you forfeit it. God’s unconditional promise is that He will never take it away from you. Jesus said, I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. (John 10:28, NIV)

SO HOW DO YOU PREPARE? PUT YOUR TRUST IN JESUS CHRIST ALONE AS YOUR PERSONAL SAVIOR TODAY, AND LEAD OTHERS TO DO THE SAME.

It is now 2022. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones. Are you ready for the return of Jesus? If you are, hallelujah! If not, make today the day of your salvation! We are closer to the return of Jesus than ever before in the history of the world. Do not miss your shot of making Jesus your Savior. Don’t be caught looking at earthly things thinking they are better than the spiritual. If you are not ready when He comes, it will be too late to make that decision. Why not start the new year with the best shot of your life – choosing Jesus as your Savior and Lord? Do it today, because ready or not, here He comes! Lillian’s passions are nature photography and serving God. Her photo art is showcased in an art gallery in Dade City, Florida. She has authored several photo books and a children’s book. As a contributor to Voice of Truth, Lillian uses her photography and writing talents to glorify and honor God for His beautiful creation. Visit, like, and follow her website www.HisCreationsLLC.com, Facebook and Instagram @HISCreationsLLC, or email her at Lillian.HisCreations@ gmail.com.

Take up the Cross This cross represents Jesus sacrificing His life for us. There is a commanding strength and courage that the cross shows us. The fire is embedded into the wood of the cross - a burning love for God’s children, a sacred sacrifice that only Jesus could carry out for us. The direction of the cross points towards our path. When we pick up the cross and lay our life down for Jesus, our path becomes clear. Our heavenly Father highlights our way. He acknowledges our own sacrifice and honors it. The peace of the olive branch surrounds our journey, binding and securing us in His love. The fruit is ripe for the harvest. The crown of thorns is at the base of the cross. “It is finished.” By Jesus dying for us, He left us the gifts of the Holy Spirit. So we have the infilling of the Holy Spirit, the fire of the Holy Spirit. The olive branch is the peace of the Holy Spirit. The peace surrounds us just as the crown of thorns surrounds us, representing Jesus’ almighty love and sacrifice. The gentleness of the teardrop represents the heartache Jesus felt - He shed His tears for us willingly to set us free. Step out and pick up the cross and follow the path God has planned for you, and His glory will shine and highlight your path. Luke 9:23 (ESV) And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”

www.lynnehudson.com

A PURPOSED CREATION BY KERRI BRIDGES “Torn apart, day to day, Circumstances overtaking me. Tossed about by things I can’t control, Doubt and fear are my dwelling place.” This was the place I found myself many years ago. In the face of things outside of our control and with our greatest efforts at “fixing” things futile, I was overwhelmed and losing faith. My soul was downcast. “Then I’m reminded of Your promises, I remember all the times You showed Your face. You gently whisper to me, ‘Peace be still,’ And I let my feelings go, And I let my feelings go.” On an overcast Saturday morning, I had the rare occasion of having the house to myself. All six of my children and my husband were away, engaged in various activities or events. I got a phone call from my mother-in-law, Terry. She was well aware of our situation. I told her of the emotions that were overwhelming me. Her advice was: put it in a song.

“I am overwhelmed, I am overtaken, Swept away by Your love. Crashing down on me like the waves of the sea, Your love is taking my breath away, You’re taking my breath away.” I sat down at the piano and breathed in. I closed my eyes and said, “Father, You know me. You know my heart. I’m releasing all my fears and anxieties into Your hands.” “You are near, day to day, Your grace and mercy overtaking me. My hope’s secure for You are in control, Your presence is my dwelling place.” I felt something in me breaking. Releasing. Liberating me from my mental chains. Quieting the disquiet of my soul. Restoring my peace. I stopped dwelling on my doubt and fear, and started dwelling in His presence. “I’m reminded of Your promises, I remember all the times You showed Your face. You gently whisper to me, ‘Peace be still,’ And I let my feelings go, And I let my feelings go.” Ten minutes later, this song was born. Lyrics written, melody sung, chords played. Victory won. Worship was and is a place of breakthrough. It is a place to surrender anything that does not line up with God’s promises. Let His love take your breath away, and allow His Spirit to breathe new life into your soul! “I am overwhelmed, I am overtaken, Swept away by Your love. Crashing down on me like the waves of the sea, Your love is taking my breath away, You’re taking my breath away.”

BESIDE STILL WATERS THE VEIL BY RUSANNE JOURDAN

The veil was torn from top to bottom on that day The earth shook, the darkness came and it appeared Christ was dead The veil that separated was ripped for us to walk right in Into the throne room Into a relationship with God Into a new way of life and an eternal life to come The veil separated, blocked and kept hidden The veil we can wear separates us from the radical, never-ending, never-surpassing love God has for us The veil we can wear attempts to hide us from the forgiven sin and shame of our past The veil can masquerade as a false means of protection The veil can get thicker and heavier as time goes by Wearing it each day can create a burden too heavy for one to walk in the freedom and joy our Father plans for us

So decide today, sister Take a deep breath in of God’s wind of worship Beat on the drum of His blessings to be And lift the veil and lift your voices Singing Praises to thee No more hiding No more shame No more living behind the wall and shadow of the veil Come forward Come free Come home To where He calls you to be The veil has dropped to the floor beneath and behind you Come sister He is holding your hand gently yet tightly, never letting go Ready to take you toward all He has for you!

HOLY HUSH Part VII B Y D E B O R A H WAT S O N Women World Leaders is pleased to present Holy Hush, written by Deborah J. Watson. Deborah is the Executive Director of Studio222films.com and curator of the Branson International Film Festival. A writer, producer, and director in the film industry, Deborah uses her talent to reach hurting people with a message of hope. Holy Hush is written as an allegorical narrative based on scripture and Deborah’s Christian worldview. Rebekka, the main character that we are traveling with, is on a journey of making a life decision of living with or without her husband, Aaron. Progressing through this difficult time, Rebekka notices the “little things” circling her life and leading her to a decision. As the story unfolds (Holy Hush began in the January 2021 edition of VOT), we see this thirty-something-year-old city girl steal away into the wilderness to be alone and search the heart of God. Along the way, Rebekka is introduced to unexpected characters who seem to be leading her on a journey of discovery.

Part VII The captain waits for a moment. Rebekka attempts to compose herself, but she knows. Now the captain knows. She has not forgiven her husband, Aaron, for what he’s done, and she’s not sure she can. “He promised!” Rebekka whispers. “He’s human. They break promises all the time.” The captain looks toward the cascading sun. “I’m human too. What promises to him have I broken? I loved him. I cared for him. I nurtured him. I waited for him to work through his issues. I followed him from job to job. From town to town. From state to state. I gave him everything he wanted except….” Rebekka looks away and weeps. “Life is not predictable or planned out. Things happen. People repent and turn and move on all the time. If you forgive now, the winds will die down, and we can still make shore by nightfall.” The captain urges Rebekka to be swift about her decision. Rebekka stands, defiant. “Don’t tell me how to grieve!” She walks to the bow of the boat and sits near the brake release to the anchor. Like the swiftness of a ghost, the captain is next to her. “So, you do know where you are?” Rebekka has been aware since the moment she stepped foot on the boat. Living in denial was easier for her than admitting that losing her husband had left her lost and wandering through life aimlessly. “We were going to live together. Have a family together. Die together.” “You can’t stay here in limbo forever, though. You have to continue forward.” The captain reaches over and begins to crank in the anchor. “It’s up to you if you take unforgiveness with you, or if you leave it behind.” “And if I take it with me, you can get us through the stormy weather?” Rebekka asks.

“I can, but there’s no guarantee of what will happen when we reach the other side.” The captain replies as the anchor emerges from the water. “What happened with the others who chose to hang on to unforgiveness?” Rebekka whispers. “We took to deeper waters and made it safely to the other side.” It is at this moment that the captain walks away from Rebekka, and she knows he is not being honest. “And then what happened? Once you reached the other side?” Rebekka begs. “I drop them off, turn around, and come back for the next fare.” The boat begins to rock as the captain turns on the engine. “So, how are we moving forward, Rebekka?” The captain asks. “What happens if I forgive him?” Rebekka is curious. The captain’s face lights up with hope at the thought of calm weather and a safe passage. “You will no longer be chained to the suffering that comes with unforgiveness, and we will have smooth sailing ahead of us. It’s ultimately your decision, though.” Rebekka walks back and sits down near the captain this time. She exhales, thinking aloud, “There’s no guilt or shame when forgiveness is present. Staying angry at him and holding unforgiveness against him will only continue to add remorse and regret.” “And stormy seas.” The captain adds. “You’ve taken too long. You must yell your answer into the wind and hold on tight.” Rebekka is knocked over by a sudden gust of wind with the first pounding wave. She grabs the edge of the boat and rises to face the impending storm. “I forgive you, Aaron!” she screams as loud as she can. It’s as if her breath pushes against the raging wind and forces the sailboat out to deeper waters as they clear the rocks and point break. The instant calm overwhelms her as she collapses to the deck of the boat.

HOLY HUSH CONT.

WHAT WE LEARN... Rebekka had expectations from her husband the moment she said, “I do.” She expected him to be the perfect spouse for her. She also expected him to love, honor, cherish and bring no harm to her world. Aaron broke his promise to her, though. It crushed her dreams of the perfect marriage. It was a major blow to her heart, and now her emotions are stuck in the grief cycle. The Lord wants us to be free from the sorrow that comes with suffering. His love for us helps mend our hurts and sorrows. Psalm 147:3 (NIV) says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” The word “binds” comes from the Hebrew word chabash. It means to wrap firmly like a turban, compress, or saddle. To bind up, gird about, govern, heal, put, saddle, wrap about. Can you imagine your broken heart being saddled in such a way that the love of Christ literally wraps itself around it until it’s mended? Often, we do not take the time to allow the process to happen. Unforgiveness stays within us, covered with a smile, in hopes that others won’t see our deep sorrow from years ago. People won’t see it. They’re not perfect. The love of God sees it and is ready to heal it. All you have to do is scream forgiveness towards the offender and let the healing waters flow. “Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.” Psalm 42:7 (NIV)

Love Notes Voice of Truth magazine gives the precious gift of story. I love how women share how God has changed their lives, gotten them through life challenges, and how He’s working in and through them. God is using these stories to bring hope, encouragement, and restoration to many women who are reading this magazine. Thank you, Voice of Truth magazine. It’s a blessing to my heart! To God be the glory! JANET HARLLEE, ASHEBORO, NC

"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." COLOSSIANS 4:6 (NIV)

POWER POINTS: WOMEN LEADER Terrisa’s Story BY LEECY BARNETT “'Jesus, I don’t know anything about anything. I just have to trust you.’ That’s what the hurricanes of life can do to us. They can reduce us to TRUST.”

hen Terrisa Coleman wrote that statement, she was reflecting on two hurricanes that had destroyed her old life and set her on a brand-new path. The metaphorical hurricane hit when, just three days after giving birth to her third daughter by Cesarean section, Terrisa and her husband, Stan, packed up their comfortable life in the midst of the Bible Belt and moved to Miami, Florida. Stan felt God was calling him to preach the gospel to the unreached in what was, at the time, the drug hub of America. Terrisa often described her experience in Miami as “90 miles from Cuba, 10 minutes from hell.” In spite of the difficulties, Stan’s ministry with the youth of the Miami church was growing. One day while standing at the dishwasher praying, God spoke to Terrisa telling her He wanted to use her and Stan to plant a church in Florida. This calling both excited and terrified her. After she recorded this encounter in her journal, she decided not to say anything about it right away, but asked God to reveal this calling to her husband. Three months later while driving to church, Stan told her about the “vision” he had to start a church one day. They agreed to spend a year praying and learning about what planting a church would involve. By August 1992, they were ready to step out in faith and decided to put their house on the market. On the very day that the real estate agency was scheduled to appraise their home, the second literal hurricane hit. When Terrisa heard that Hurricane Andrew was heading toward South Florida, she was not too worried as they lived 12 miles inland, were not in an evacuation zone, had hurricane supplies, and it had been more than 40 years since a

: GOD AT WORK THROUGH RS YESTERDAY AND TODAY

major hurricane had directly hit the Miami area. Huddled in their living room on the night of August 23, 1992, the five Colemans felt they were prepared for the hurricane that was scheduled to hit the next day. Terrisa described that horrible night: At 4:00 am a flash of bright blue light told us our transformer had blown and our power was gone. The house went black and silent. The wind began to howl…for a few moments we held our breath. Then suddenly, without warning, the window next to me exploded, sending shards of glass hurling in every direction at what seemed like the speed of light. “MOOOVE!!!” My husband was shouting for us to run to the small downstairs bath. We reached it just as the house began to fall apart. The next morning when they emerged from what was left of their house, their neighborhood looked like a bombedout war zone. Everything they owned was gone, but in the midst of the rubble that had been their life, God’s overwhelming peace surrounded Terrisa as she praised God that her whole family had lived through a direct hit of a category 5 hurricane. They knew that they had to get out of the area and find a safe place to stay. The only people they knew in Florida outside of Andrew’s devastated path was a family from the Miami church who had recently moved 80 miles north to Boynton Beach. While staying with this family, they began a neighborhood Bible study, which became the nucleus of South Palm Community Church, officially launched on Easter 1993. Over the 23 years of the church, thousands of people heard the good news of God’s grace through Jesus Christ and began following Him. When a hurricane, in whatever form, destroys your life as you have known it, be encouraged by Terrisa’s experience to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NLT)

Be Free Is it time to let go? To be released into the freedom that is waiting for you? What is holding you back? Is it the past? Is it the fear, the worry, the uncertainty? God showed me this vision of a beautiful dawning of a new day, a new year, a new season. The balloon was on its own path of freedom, embracing the heavenlies, embracing the unknown with joy. (Pink is Joy.) You can smell the perfume of peace surrounding this explosion of life, a newness of freshness. The thunderous clouds are the uncertainty, but God’s sovereignty rains down. Can you see the downpour behind the balloon? Subtle, but He is there. Always. The colours of the clouds express His strength, royalty, and warmth of His blessings as His glory shines through. The landscape is gentle and peaceful, like a flowing river. The fields of poppies are a reminder of His blood that washes away our fears. The poppies in the foreground are prominent, just like His presence in our lives. All we need to do is open our eyes and see. The dewdrops are His tears of compassion as He lovingly carries us away, tucked under His loving wings. I asked God, Why poppies? Poppies represent remembrance and hope for the future, a regeneration of our circumstances. We can’t forget the past, and we shouldn’t - because our past contains all the miracles that God has mercifully shown us. Through our memories, we step into the future with a hope and faith for what God has for us. Are you willing to step into God’s open invitation and fly?

As you let go and soar higher with His presence, you look down from the balloon and see the love that He has washed over your life and your family. Know that He has always got you - loved and protected. Don’t be afraid to embrace that burst of His love. Like a burst of fire, go higher with Him and feel His sanctified freedom and love. Like the poppy that opens its petals and bends in the wind, be open to His direction and bend with His whisperings. And in the midst of it all, breathe in His peace. John 14:27 (TPT) “I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don’t yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts— instead, be courageous!” Lynne is a professional prophetic artist with a diverse art career of over 40 years. Her work has been featured in many art exhibitions throughout Australia and NYC. Not only is Lynne is our prophetic artist for the Voice of Truth, but she also runs Women World Leaders Australia. In addition, she has her own ministry, which consists of teaching and painting prophetic art. Lynne resides on the Gold Coast.

www.lynnehudson.com lynne@lynnehudson.com Instagram: Lynne Hudson Art FB: Lynne Hudson Spiritual Paintings

Ser Libre ¿Es hora de dejarlo ir? ¿Para ser liberado en la libertad que te espera? ¿Qué te está deteniendo? Es el pasado? ¿Es el miedo, la preocupación, la incertidumbre? Dios me mostró esta visión de un hermoso amanecer de un nuevo día, un nuevo año, una nueva temporada. El globo estaba en su propio camino de libertad, abrazando los cielos, abrazando lo desconocido con alegría. (El rosa es alegría). Puedes oler el perfume de la paz que rodea esta explosión de vida, una novedad de frescura. Las nubes tronando son la incertidumbre, pero la soberanía de Dios llueve. ¿Puedes ver el aguacero detrás del globo? Sutil, pero Él está ahí. Siempre. Los colores de las nubes expresan Su fuerza, realeza y la calidez de Sus bendiciones a medida que Su gloria resplandece. El paisaje es apacible y tranquilo, como un río que fluye. Los campos de amapolas son un recordatorio de Su sangre que lava nuestros miedos. Las amapolas en primer plano son prominentes, al igual que Su presencia en nuestras vidas. Todo lo que tenemos que hacer es abrir los ojos y ver. Las gotas de rocío son Sus lágrimas de compasión mientras nos lleva amorosamente, escondidos bajo Sus alas amorosas. Le pregunté a Dios, ¿Por qué amapolas? Las amapolas representan el recuerdo y la esperanza del futuro, una regeneración de nuestras circunstancias. No podemos olvidar el pasado, y no deberíamos hacerlo, porque nuestro pasado contiene todos los milagros que Dios nos ha mostrado misericordiosamente. A través de nuestros

recuerdos, avanzamos hacia el futuro con esperanza y fe en lo que Dios tiene para nosotros. ¿Estás dispuesto a aceptar la invitación abierta de Dios y volar? A medida que te sueltas y te elevas más alto con Su presencia, miras hacia abajo desde el globo y ves el amor que Él ha derramado sobre tu vida y tu familia. Quiero que sepas que Él siempre te ha amado y protegido. No tengas miedo de abrazar ese estallido de Su amor. Como un estallido de fuego, sube más alto con Él y siente Su libertad y amor santificados. Como la amapola que abre sus pétalos y se dobla con el viento, ábrete en Su dirección y dóblate con Sus susurros. Y en medio de todo esto, respira Su paz. Juan 14:27 (TPT) “Os dejo el regalo de la paz, mi paz. No el tipo de paz frágil que da el mundo, sino mi paz perfecta. No cedan al miedo ni se aflijan en su corazón; en cambio, ¡sean valientes! " Lynne es una artista profética profesional con una carrera artística diversa de más de 40 años. Su trabajo ha aparecido en muchas exposiciones de arte en Australia y Nueva York. Lynne no solo es nuestra artista profética de Voice of Truth, sino que también dirige Women World Leaders Australia. Además, tiene su propio ministerio, que consiste en enseñar y pintar arte profético. Lynne reside en Gold Coast.

www.lynnehudson.com lynne@lynnehudson.com Instagram: Lynne Hudson Art FB: Pinturas espirituales de Lynne Hudson

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." EPHESIANS 4:32 (NIV)

45 Photo of Jamie Cheveldayoff

THROUGH A MOTHER'S EYES Chasing Sunsets B Y D I A N E C H E V E L D AY O F F

e all have those times when we are content with where we are and what we are doing, but then we are asked to step away from our own comfort to fulfill our children’s desires. When my girls were young, my husband was quick to drop his routine for our children, but that selfless service took me a little while to learn. It doesn’t matter what age our children may be, we are still their parents, and it will always be important to share special moments with them. And as they grow older, if we aren’t intentional with our time, we may miss those precious moments and memories altogether. You know the old saying, “Take time to smell the roses”? If we apply this, it can help eliminate all doubt or regret of our own short-sightedness. One of our most precious times as a family started with one daughter’s request to chase the sunset. Her desire soon grew to our whole family running mad, chasing the sunset with intentional effort. We have raced through some pretty harsh areas to get to a point to see the display in the sky, and I have to admit, there are times I wonder why we did. Yet, deep down, I knew why I did, and remembering the why will keep you going regardless of circumstances or even the outcome.

Some sunsets we chased were incredibly vibrant, with every color and tone imaginable, and others were just so-so. But all had indescribable beauty. Sometimes, we stood in awe, taking in the majestic display and snapping picture after picture. Other times, we sat in silence, enjoying the calmness and peacefulness exuding from the sky at the end of the day. Almost every time, we were reminded to stay until the very end as the vibrant colors intensified and changed, transforming the sky and the landscape by its reflection. Isaiah 30:18 tells us the importance of waiting on God: "Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait on Him!" (NIV) Just like a sunset, our circumstances can change so quickly. Too often, we give up, leaving and then realizing we missed the best part. Our fun adventure of chasing the sunset started a tradition, which, in turn, created thought-provoking and lasting memories. Kids don’t care if dinner is getting cold on the table, nor should we. The time we carve out from our day to give to our children helps them see so much more than what meets the eye. Recently, one of

our grown daughters posted a set of sunset pictures on social media, revealing the special memory instilled in her. She stated, “This is my favorite way to end my day. Dedicating time to watch God showing off each and every day.” You see, she sees more in a sunset than the beauty in the colors. Although a sunset or your child’s smile may be spectacular, when you step back and see the Creator in the Creation, the glory of God becomes alive, turning a moment of content into a moment filled with God’s undeniable power. Paul reminds us in 1 Cor. 2:9, "'What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived' -- the things God has prepared for those who love him." (NIV). This scripture came to my mind as I recently stood alone, taking in the beauty of a sunset. Our minds do not have the capacity to truly understand all that God has created and all that He has for us. Our eyes cannot see the realms of glory beyond our scope. Our nature is to only see what’s on the surface and not look deeper. But God wants us to look deeper! While we may find comfort in the way things are, if we listen to a child’s request, or the Holy Spirit’s voice, we may be led out of our comfort to experience something extraordinary. It takes a lot of effort to have friends. It takes even more patience to be a friend. And although our children will always be our children, it takes effort and patience to develop a relationship with them, too. Just like a sunset,

IT OUR NATURE IS TO ONLY SEE WHAT’S ON THE SURFACE AND NOT LOOK DEEPER. BUT GOD WANTS US TO LOOK DEEPER!

if we don’t chase after our children and patiently wait for their colors to radiantly transform everything around them, we could miss one of the most spectacular sights God has for us as parents. A parent-child relationship can go beyond friendship - creating incredible moments and memories which hopefully will cause you to slow down and realize it was worth all the effort and the wait, all with no regrets! Diane is a professional meeting planner with over 40 years in the hospitality industry - planning, contracting, and executing meetings and events worldwide. (www.ExecutiveDiamond.com) She and her husband Les have been married over 30 years, have three beautiful adult girls, and work together in their ministry, HALO Highway, Healing through drama, music and other art forms. (www. HALOHighway.com) In addition to writing for WWL, Diane loves serving in Leadership and Finance and can be reached at Diane@ ExecutiveDiamond.com or Diane@WomenWorldLeaders.com Photo of Jamie Cheveldayoff, credit to Philip V.

Love Notes My dear sisters in Christ, I'm enjoying getting my magazine and being so encouraged by women from around the world. As I read, I'm reminded that God has called each of the writers, editors, and helpers for a purpose - to share their testimonies, bless, and help the girl who is reading the stories inside this publication. Voice of Truth does this so well. Thank you. I pray for all the women of truth in this magazine. God is using you to pour prayer over us, supernatural peace, love, and the answers that come from God. God bless you, Voice of Truth, and may He bless your loved ones with His protection as well. DANA CRYER, POTTSBORO, TX

COFFEE CHATS Human Trafficking Awareness Month BY TINA KADOLPH

anuary is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, allowing us, in the United States, a platform to bring much-needed attention to this horrible crime. But as we move past January, it is essential that we keep our awareness of and resolve to eradicate human trafficking alive. We need to talk about it and know how to be safe and what to look for all year long. So, let’s use our Coffee and Chat time this month to teach some important information and statistics. Human trafficking is personal for me. I am a survivor of human trafficking, having been trafficked by my mom at four years old. (You can read more about my story in Victories: Claiming Freedom in Christ, available at www. worldpublishingandproductions.com.) Coming from that life, I felt hopeless and that I would never have a chance to become an adult, much less have a beautiful future. But God changed all that. Now, Jesus has equipped me to use what the enemy meant for my death to bring hope and life through Christ to others who have been through similar circumstances.

I’m blessed, through Love Missions Global, to give human trafficking awareness trainings in our public schools, churches, women’s clubs, and businesses; to medical staff, law enforcement, and more. I live my life to help others and keep them and our young people safe from traffickers and predators. Love Missions has a safe house in South America that currently serves five children rescued from the horrors of sex trafficking. I love having a front-row seat to watch the miraculous healing of those who felt they had no hope when God, who is always with us, intervened in their trauma.

NOW, JESUS HAS EQUIPPED ME TO USE WHAT THE ENEMY MEANT FOR MY DEATH TO BRING HOPE AND LIFE THROUGH CHRIST TO OTHERS WHO HAVE BEEN THROUGH SIMILAR CIRCUMSTANCES.

We also have a coffee shop in Sanford, Florida, whose profits help support the ministry. We use our ice cream shop, with its commercial kitchen, to teach culinary, baking, and cake decorating classes to human trafficking survivors as both therapy and to help them gain job skills. And our life center, “The Bridge,” was created to bridge people from pain to purpose. We work towards this goal by teaching life and job skills, offering art therapy, college scholarships, help with GED completion, tattoo removal, Bible studies, mentorship, and so much more. Although recovery is a pillar of Love Missions, so is sharing information to help keep the non-victim safe. Being aware of what to look for can help anyone keep their children, grandchildren, neighbors, and those in their circle of influence safe. On the contrary, not knowing what to look for can lead to the occurrence of an atrocity right in front of you. My prayer is God will stir your heart to make this an important cause to you also. Psalm 82:3 (NIV) Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. HERE ARE JUST A FEW STATISTICS: #1 Human trafficking is the second-largest crime in the world, behind drugs #2 The United States is #3 globally for the most trafficking. That usually surprises people because, here in the US, we think human trafficking only happens in other countries. #3 Since the pandemic started, child exploitation has gone up 106%. #4 83% of sex trafficking begins with connections made on the internet, including social media and gaming.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT ANYONE IN OUR COMMUNITY CAN BE VULNERABLE TO HUMAN TRAFFICKING, JUST LIKE ANYONE CAN BECOME A VICTIM OF ANY CRIME.

OTHER VULNERABILITIES INCLUDE: • Living in an unstable situation • Experiencing previous violence, such as sexual abuse or domestic violence • Having run away or involvement in the juvenile justice or child welfare system • Being an undocumented immigrant • Facing poverty or economic need • Being cared for by someone or having a family member with substance abuse issues • Personal addiction to drugs or alcohol It is important to note that anyone in our community can be vulnerable to human trafficking, just like anyone can become a victim of any crime. There are so many reasons for vulnerabilities. Traffickers recognize this and take advantage. Be alert. WHO ARE THE TRAFFICKERS? There is no evidence that traffickers are more likely to be of a particular race, nationality, gender, or sexual orientation. They may be family members, romantic partners, acquaintances, strangers, or neighbors.

THOSE MOST VULNERABLE HAVE: • Experienced generational trauma • Been in the foster care system • Recently migrated • Don’t know the primary language of the area • Have started a new school or moved to a new town • Are victims of family dysfunction

COFFEE CHATS CONT.

RECOGNIZING LABOR TRAFFICKING: Labor trafficking includes situations where men, women, and children are forced to work because of debt, immigration status, threats, and violence. Keeping victims isolated — physically or emotionally — is a key method of control in most labor trafficking situations. But that does not mean you never cross paths with someone who is experiencing trafficking. Someone may be experiencing labor trafficking or exploitation if they:

HOW TRAFFICKERS RECRUIT: Human traffickers love to create unrealistic opportunities to lure vulnerable people. Examples include instantaneous romantic relationships or amazing jobs opportunities with high wages. If you know the signs and are aware, these unrealistic stories will raise red flags. Here are a few situations and signs to watch out for: • A would-be employer refuses to give workers a signed contract or asks them to sign a contract in a language they can’t read. • A would-be employer collects fees from a potential worker for the “opportunity” to work in a particular job. • A friend, family member, co-worker, or student is showered with gifts or money, or otherwise becomes involved in an overwhelming, fast-moving romantic relationship with a significant difference in age or financial status • A friend, family member, or student is a frequent runaway staying with someone who is not their parent or guardian. • A family member, friend, co-worker, or student is developing a relationship that seems too close with someone they know solely on social media. • A family member, friend, or student lives with a parent or guardian and shows signs of abuse. • A family member, friend, or co-worker is offered a job opportunity that seems too good to be true.

• Feel pressured by their employer to stay in a job or situation they want to leave • Owe money to an employer or recruiter or are not being paid what they were promised or are owed • Do not have control of their passport or other identity documents • Are living and working in isolated conditions, largely cut off from interaction with others or support systems • Appear to be monitored by another person when talking or interacting with others • Are being threatened by their boss with deportation or other harm • Are working in dangerous conditions without proper safety gear, training, adequate breaks, or other protections • Are living in dangerous, overcrowded, or inhumane conditions provided by an employer

KEEPING VICTIMS ISOLATED — PHYSICALLY OR EMOTIONALLY — IS A KEY METHOD OF CONTROL IN MOST LABOR TRAFFICKING SITUATIONS. BUT THAT DOES NOT MEAN YOU NEVER CROSS PATHS WITH SOMEONE WHO IS EXPERIENCING TRAFFICKING.

RECOGNIZING SEX TRAFFICKING: Sex trafficking occurs when individuals are made to perform commercial sex through the use of force, fraud, or coercion. Any child under 18 involved in commercial sex is legally a victim of trafficking, regardless of whether a third party is involved. Someone may be experiencing sex trafficking if they: • Want to stop participating in commercial sex but feel scared or unable to leave the situation. • Disclose that they were reluctant to engage in commercial sex but that someone pressured them into it • Live where they work or are transported by guards between home and workplace • Are children who live with or are dependent on a family member with a substance use problem or who is abusive • Have a “pimp” or “manager” in the commercial sex industry • Work in an industry where it may be common to be pressured into performing sex acts for money, such as a strip club, illicit cantina, go-go bar, or illicit massage business • Have a controlling parent, guardian, romantic partner, or “sponsor” who will not allow them to meet or speak with anyone alone, or monitors their movements, spending, or communications If you believe you are a victim of human trafficking or may have information about a potential trafficking situation, please contact the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text Help at BeFree at 233733 If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. If you want more information, please contact us at Lovemissions.net I hope your eyes have been opened and you have learned something new this month. Now that you know, I pray God will use this information for you to help others now. It will take us all to combat this crime. Proverbs 31:8 (NIV) Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. *Statistics courtesy of Polarisproject.org. Tina Kadolph is the Co-founder and President of Love Missions Global, a 501c3 non profit organization dedicated to the global abolishment of modern-day slavery, which has a safe house in South America and a life center, called The Bridge, in Florida. Tina is the co-owner of Palate Coffee Brewery, Palate Roastery, and Palate Bubs and Ice Cream in Sanford, Florida. She has been nominated as Hero of the Year by Spectrum TV and interviewed by CNN as an influencer, encourager, and inspiration.

Stomp out human trafficking What would it look like if Women World Leaders partnered with a local coffee shop in Sanford, Florida to empower lives with purpose? For starters, it would look like a bag of freshly roasted, washed Costa Rican beans and natural Ethiopian beans blended to perfection sitting on your kitchen counter. With notes of honey, vanilla, milk chocolate, and cocoa, you can’t go wrong.

together we can

We rejoice in God merging our missions together, partnering to serve Him - from empowering women to rescuing many from the plights of human trafficking. You can join our hearts and hands by purchasing a bag of coffee. All the proceeds will be shared between Women World Leaders & Love Missions. Palate Coffee Brewery is blessed to have won taste quality awards; always roasted in His love, to perfection.

ORDER NOW ...and support both missions with your purchase! https://sanfordcoffee.com/WWL

COLLEGE COURAGE BY SARAH JENKINS

t is often said that someone will not realize the true nature of their environment until they escape from it - whether momentary or enduring. For a college student, this comes in the form of breaks, the beautifully packaged present awaiting students each December and May. Speaking as a senior in college, I’ve seen many of these breaks come and go. Sometimes they’ve been characterized by trips to see family and other times by day trips to visit friends in nearby cities. Most of them by the return to my job in the local mall. However, most recently, my senior year winter break was characterized by none of those. In an effort to embrace my fleeting and final moments of home prior to graduation, I chose days with wide-open agendas and no pre-planned trips. I rested and reflected, and there’s a whole lot that came into focus. As I sat in my childhood bedroom in the small beach town that raised me, I realized the simple power of looking back at where I have been to propel me into the gleaming light of where I hope to go. On my morning runs, I passed my middle school, a building that taught a timid yet quietly fierce Sarah seeking her voice in such formative years. She didn’t know her path for life but was fervent in her quest to find it; she immersed herself in varying genres of clubs on campus in desperate hopes of finding her niche. While middle school Sarah wasn’t aware that age 14 was only the beginning of that journey (and that she had a LONG way to go), she still searched.

COLLEGE COURAGE CONT.

In the afternoons, I picked my brother up from the high school I attended, one that, over the course of four years, served as the setting in which I found the voice I spent so much of middle school looking for. It’s where I met teachers that would be mentors beyond my high school tenure and the place that ignited a passion within me for the subjects I have chosen to study in college today. It is the one that nurtured me as a leader as I grew our Fellowship of Christian Athletes club to more than 400 students, the largest club at the school at the time. I learned then that the best was only yet to come and that I must choose to harness the power that I had at my fingertips. College has allowed me that - but it was a choice. Then I reflected on what college has given me. I realized that it allowed me to use the voice I’ve been given and finally put it to work. Through leadership positions and internships attained, relationships I’ve cultivated through the years, and the overall beautiful brutality of the real world, I have gained a new lens through which to view life. Now, more than ever, I see young people taking all the lessons they’ve learned from their home bases and applying them to a world in which they are offered the opportunity to be a part of radical transformation. We are told in Ecclesiastes, “For in everything there is a season, and a time in every matter under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV) Each time we look back on our lives, we will recognize the culmination of moments that have led us to where we are - here and now. It is what we do with those moments of reflection that define our ability to create a tangible shift for the world and the kingdom of God. I may only be 21, and there is no doubt I have a lot of life to go, but I pray that I use what I’ve learned in each season to help navigate where I’m going next. My sincere hope is that I’ll always look back and remember each of life’s phases in my moments of solace, even when they get more few and far between. The power of recognizing where we’ve been as a catalyst to where we’re going is a weapon provided by the Lord Himself and is one that we must all make use of. In this coming year, we must all recognize where He’s brought us from to fully conceptualize and honor where we’re going.

JOURNEY WITH JESUS: NUGGETS FROM THE GOSPEL OF MARK Who is this Jesus? (Mark 1:21-28, NIV) B Y R E V. L I S A M O R R I S O N

ho is Jesus to you? Is He Lord? Is He Savior? Is He Prophet? Is He Teacher? Is He a man who lived 2000 years ago? Is He miracle worker? Is He a genie that grants three wishes? Is He a magician? Who is Jesus? To you? The purpose of the gospel of Mark is to answer this overarching question: Who is this Jesus? In our passage today, we find Jesus arriving at the synagogue. This is the first time we’re told of Him being at a synagogue. Mark writes that the people are amazed because He taught as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law (v. 22). This statement gives us insight into who this Jesus might be since He teaches unlike the other teachers of His day. He teaches with authority that comes from God. He has a grasp of the scriptures and teaches them with a holy understanding unlike the typical synagogue teachers. Who is this Jesus? they begin to ask themselves. While Jesus is teaching, “a man possessed with an impure spirit cries out, ‘What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are – the Holy One of God!’” (v. 24) Do you see what the demon recognizes? He knows Jesus’ name and where He is from – Jesus of Nazareth. The demon knows Jesus has the power to destroy all the demons. He also knows who Jesus is when he calls Him the Holy

One of God. Who is this Jesus that even the demons know and recognize His power to destroy them and call Him the Holy One of God? What happens next also helps us answer the question of who this Jesus is. Jesus with strong warfare language — direct and rugged — demands the demon to shut up and come out of the man. “The impure spirit comes out of the man with a shriek.” (v. 26) The people are amazed at this exorcism. This is unprecedented. The demons are commanded by Jesus, and they have no choice but to obey Him. They must come out of the man. Who is this Jesus who teaches with authority? Who is this Jesus that the demons recognize as the Holy One of God? Who is this Jesus who commands the demons, and they have no choice but to obey Him? Mark stacks up the evidence in response to their amazement. How do you answer the question being asked in this gospel: Who is this Jesus? Lisa Morrison is an ordained minister who has served as pastor and staff pastor in several positions in the local church as well as in district ministerial and educational leadership positions. She has also served as Adjunct Instructor in the Religion Department at various educational institutions of higher learning. She holds two master’s degrees and a post-graduate degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.

A PHOTO COLUMN FROM

Jessica

LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL B Y J E S S I C A M O R N E A U LT

our current situation does not necessarily determine where your life is heading. Every day is an opportunity for positive change. As we mature, our desires shift, our relationships are simplified, and our family and closest friends become dear to us. Things we spent hours on previously become less significant to us. We find ourselves wanting to fill our God-given purpose and striving to make a difference. Through faith, we will move through life's challenges and will be directed to our Father for comfort and joy. He has a deep desire for us to keep our eyes on the light that shines brightly at the end of the tunnel, our final destination.

WINNING THE WAR ON DEPRESSION Change Your Story with Kirstin Leigh

BY KIRSTIN LEIGH

rowing up in a small, ‘this is the way it is’ town, I quickly learned what it’s like to be an outcast, judged before you open your mouth, and bullied – living in fear just because you don’t follow the crowd. I knew that one day, I would make life better – easier for everyone else. I also knew I would be moving to New York City as soon as possible. And that is what I did. I saved my babysitting money and moved to NYC when I was seventeen. I was ready to conquer the world! However, there were times when the world almost conquered me. I know what it’s like to fight for a dream—and what it’s like to lose one. I know how it feels to be smiling on the outside and crying on the inside, for habits to become lifestyles, and to look in the mirror one day and barely recognize yourself. I know what it’s like to give up. And I know the faith and the work it takes to get back up. Depression can attack anyone. For some, it’s like a sudden storm. It might not last long, but its effects linger. For others, it’s like a torrential downpour that never lets up. While there is no formula for breaking free from depression, I pray that each of the seven steps I’ll share below will bring you closer to freedom. Closer to living the abundant life God created you to live. Don’t let the dark cloud of depression blind you any longer. Make a decision today to fight!

CHANGE YOUR STORY CONT.

2. COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS When you’re depressed, this can be the most annoying thing to hear. But it is the one thing with which pastors, psychologists, psychiatrists, and scientists agree. Cultivating “an attitude of gratitude” affects everything from your health to your finances. I used to waitress in New York City. Before rushing to work, I’d write a note to myself about something I was grateful for and put it in the pocket of my apron. When I would reach for a pen, I’d feel the note. And when I’d get ready to take an order, there was the note.

SEVEN POWERFUL WAYS TO FIGHT DEPRESSION 1. BELIEVE YOU ARE WORTH FIGHTING FOR God has a purpose and a plan for your life. But YOU have to believe it. And you have to fight for it. Depression steals your joy, your passion, and your zest for life—it makes you forget who you are. Depression silences you into thinking it’s the boss. Have you ever had a houseguest who stayed too long? Think of depression like this guest. If you cater to its every need and listen to what it says (like You might as well… No one cares anyway… You don’t deserve that job… You’ll never be good enough…), it will hang around forever. Take charge. Tell depression it has overstayed its welcome and it’s time to hit the road.

DON’T LET THE DARK CLOUD OF DEPRESSION BLIND YOU ANY LONGER. MAKE A DECISION TODAY TO FIGHT!

I put that physical reminder to be grateful in my pocket so I’d “remember,” yet all day long, I kept finding what I forgot was there. Depression is like this. As much as we want to remember the good things, depression distracts us. So today, make a list of your blessings and put it somewhere it will keep finding you. 3. BE AWARE Being aware of what you are thinking is key when fighting depression! For example, are your regrets on re-play? Do you re-hash old wounds? Or go over and over conversations that hurt you? Do you think about how bad things are or how good they can be, how many times you’ve fallen or how many times you’ve gotten back up? Being aware of what you are thinking and intentionally replacing every self-defeating thought with a life-affirming one can be a game-changer. I’ll never forget moving into my first apartment in Los Angeles. I could see the “Hollywood” sign from my window (something I had always dreamed about.) In addition to the Hollywood sign, another sign—the Serenity Payer, was hanging on my bathroom mirror. God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can’t change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Holding on to things I couldn’t change and not changing the ones I had control over was one of the root causes of my depression. Learning to live by the Serenity Prayer played a huge part in winning the war on depression.

It is all too easy to become fixated on our past—the regrets, mistakes, hangups, and hurts. But God gives us a choice. Ask God for the strength to forgive yourself and others, and to help you move on to what He has next. 4. WATCH YOUR WORDS Words either build us up or tear us down. They can make us feel like we’re on top of the world but can just as easily break our hearts. While we can’t control what people say about us, we can commit to speaking life into our own lives. Words are powerful and full of energy. They carry momentum. Which direction are yours taking you? 5. REMEMBER! It’s not all about you. Depression makes us feel unworthy. Therefore we isolate ourselves. Yet while isolated, all we do is think about ourselves! So today, take the focus off yourself and do something for someone else. Helping others really does help. 6. DIG DEEP Every successful corporation knows that taking inventory is essential to success; your life is no different. Digging deep opens the door for the truth to be revealed. Take some time to jot down what is working in your life. Next, write down what is holding you back. How can you reorganize your life to take full advantage of what is working and eliminate or change what isn’t? And this is important, recognize those things you didn’t write down at all because you don’t want to think about them or you just can’t deal with them. Evaluating those situations or relationships will help you break free from depression.

PRAYER CONNECTS US TO OUR CREATOR, OUR HEALER, OUR PROVIDER - THE ONE WHO CAN DELIVER US FROM DEPRESSION AND EVERY OTHER ATTACK OF THE ENEMY.

7. ASK FOR HELP You don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Talk to someone who will share their strength, their scars, and their story with you. Someone who has been there, done it—and overcome it. And above all else, PRAY. This should be a given, right? Yet prayer is one of the most powerful but overlooked weapons we have. Through prayer we find the strength to stand against depression, rejection, temptation, fear, and every other negative behavior and emotion. Prayer connects us to our Creator, our Healer, our Provider - the One who can deliver us from depression and every other attack of the enemy. With God, you can renew your strength. You can soar on wings like eagles and you can run and not grow weary. (See Isaiah 40:31) With God, you can Change Your Story. After running away from her dreams and battling addictions for over a decade, Kirstin Leigh is now a best-selling author, speaker, actress, and the founder of The Change Your Story Workshop. She is passionate about empowering others to break free from strongholds and discover the masterpiece that lives within. To find out more about Kirstin or to purchase her books, you can visit: www.Kirstinleigh.com For information or to enroll in The Change Your Story Workshop, visit www.thechangeyourstoryworkshop.com

"What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived—the things God has prepared for those who love him." 1 COR. 2:9 (NIV)

LEAVING A GODLY LEGACY The Loveliness of Love B Y K AT H L E E N B A R R E T T “All you need is LOVE! All you need is love, love, love is all you need.” Some of you may recall the 1999 Beatles hit written by John Lennon. The catchy, carefree tune and the chorus are really all I recall. The rest of the lyrics, which I found in an online search, basically tout that everything is in vain without love. Doesn’t that sound vaguely like the message of 1 Corinthians 13:1? If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. (NIV) In most countries, Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th, when a colorful bouquet and a box of chocolates given or received can be the traditional gifts to express love. A gourmet dinner, a little wine, and candles on the table are the hint of romance to the man in your life. A festive family meal brightens those precious faces, and handmade Valentine’s cards from your little ones melt your heart. But for many, February is one giant and reverberating gong and clanging cymbal. Some may have found love,

or thought they found love at one time, but sadly life took them down a twisted, lonely, hurt-filled path. Romance and love are far from the minds of those who have been abandoned, abused, divorced, widowed, cheated on, forlorn in their singleness, or even those who are married but “single.” Some of you will relate all too well to that last grouping. Family unity is not warm and fuzzy but, in fact, may be sullen and shameful. Dear friend, you have the power within to change the downward spiral. And this is where leaving a legacy of strong character comes in. May I give you a surprising “nugget” of truth from the lyrics of the Beatles' song? “But you can learn how to be you in time. It's easy. All you need is love.” I would add: all the love you need is God’s love, working in and through you as His Light pierces the darkness of despair and loss. Think: Legacy! Think: What will people say about me after I am called home? Think: Isaiah 54:5. For your Maker is your husband, the LORD of hosts is his name. (NIV)

LEAVING A GODLY LEGACY CONT.

After decades, I finally learned how to be me. It took time, years, surrender, and the will to want to please God with all of me. I had to step away from enabling another’s unhealthy behavior. I decided that I wanted to finish strong and well. Finishing well is to love well. It is to show my family how to love well. That’s part of my legacy to them in honor of the Spirit’s work in me.

I DECIDED THAT I WANT TO FINISH STRONG AND WELL. FINISHING WELL IS TO LOVE WELL. IT IS TO SHOW MY FAMILY HOW TO LOVE WELL.

In Leaving a Godly Legacy in December’s issue of Voice of Truth, I shared the importance of leaving unmistakable evidence of a Christ-like character to your loved ones. I referenced Galatians 5:22 as bookends to your growing faith. With the prominent attribute of Christ-like character being LOVE, cultivating a spirit of love in your household and toward all people is perhaps the most profound legacy you will leave your family. Your example of unconditional love sets the tone. Remember, to love a person doesn’t mean you accept their poor behavior, but you love them despite that behavior. To model the agape love of Christ to your family members and others is to say, This person is made in God’s image. God loves them, and so will I. Although you may not “like” someone’s personality, as a Christ-follower, you have the obligation and the power to love that individual. The Holy Spirit will give you the grace in your weakness to love the unlikable. “‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV) Jesus extended His arms on rugged, splintered, wooden beams forming a cross – arms open to the onslaught of the sin of the world. They were open to the unlovely and unlikeable – you and me. Although the surrender of Jesus to the Father’s will was much more than a “grace-

filled” act, it demonstrated to what extent grace (the unmerited favor of God) was freely given, and to what extent it is necessary in all relationships. You and I don’t necessarily need to “like” that person, but we do need to express the love of Christ to them because God first loved us. This is the loveliness of love! Professing Christ-follower, your family and your circle of influence are watching. Make the decision today to finish well to the glory of God so that you may leave a rich legacy for others to emulate. Kathleen Barrett is an Indie published author and blogger on the Treasure Coast of Florida. She has written three books and numerous articles in a variety of publications. She serves on the Communication Team of her church’s Forever Young group. Tending a modest garden and preparing Sunday afternoon feasts for her multi-cultural family brings her joy. Visit her website, www.kathybarrettwrites.com Or contact her by email kathybarrett222@yahoo.com

FOLLOWING THE SON At the Window PHOTO AND WRITING BY MICHELE HUGHES He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (Rev. 21:5 NIV)

here I stood, at the window, by a wash station off the side of the main dining area in the David Citadel Hotel. Once again, the sun stopped me, and I was able to capture another glorious morning sunrise. This stunning hotel in Jerusalem uniquely unites the old city and the new. A beautiful thing about mornings is they mark the beginning of a new day and new experiences. I returned home to the United States and, over a year later, I started studying this picture. Archways are very common in structures throughout the Holy Land. In architecture, the arch is designed to lift the eye (and spirit) upwards. It is a symbol of strength and support. Passing through an arch is the symbolic act of rebirth, leaving the old and entering the new. Archways can mark an access into a holy place. The apostle Paul says in Ephesians 1:3-10 (NIV), Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will — to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his

will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment — to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ. During one of our tours on the trip, I discovered I had lost my black, cozy headscarf. I loved this accessory. I had it for decades. Frantically, I went back and scoured the area but couldn’t find it anywhere. I was so disappointed. But that scarf has now been replaced with a new sheer off-white scarf with hummingbirds and butterflies outlined in gold. Looking back, I left something old in the Holy Land and returned home with so much more. I gained a whole new passion for reading and studying the scriptures and a deeper understanding of my Savior’s love for you and me. Have you ever lost something? I got lost (in a good way) in Israel. I was unaware the world was preparing for a global shutdown until the end of our trip, when ours became the last flight out. I left that old city with a new outlook. As you start this new year, let me encourage you to look up and walk through whatever God has in store for you, knowing He is all you need. He makes all things new. The one thing we cannot lose is God. Michele and her husband reside in Jupiter, Florida and own and operate GoLifeSavers.com. Michele has been teaching CPR classes since 2011 as the lead instructor in their business and holds a master’s degree in education. She is a leader in WWL, serving in the Leadership Development team, and is a #1 best-selling author. Michele loves the Son/sun, paddle boarding, travel, and encouraging others.

KINGDOM HARVEST Women World Leaders is now in 50+ countries – His Gospel is changing lives Unite with Us, Share in the Harvest We are committed to bringing a great harvest through Voice of Truth, which is available for free both in a printed and digital version. We have faith that the Lord is our provider! As this magazine grows daily, we invite you to help us bring in the harvest. Will you partner with us in prayer and giving as you ask Him how He wants you to be a part of this magazine? Your seed will blossom in the hearts of women around the globe as you partner with us. As you give, we are praying and trusting that the Lord will bless you and all your needs will be met according to His riches in glory. We praise the Lord for you and thank you for your obedience and generosity.

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YOUR PATH TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Life on this earth is a journey. Yet, through the ups and downs and twists and turns, we can trust our unchangeable God to lead us, just as He has led those who have walked ahead of us. Each woman in this book invites you to walk beside her as she shares lessons she learned traversing life’s circumstances. As you read, these stories will remind you that no matter what we encounter, we can always look to God, trusting HIS provision, strength, and direction. He is always with you, and He has a plan to lead you to a path that is more beautiful than you can imagine. Allow God to strengthen and empower you to step boldly in faith as you read these stories along with expertly placed expositional teachings written by best-selling authors and faith-mentors Julie Jenkins and Kimberly Hobbs. God is guiding you to spiritual growth. It’s time to Embrace YOUR Journey!

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MUSINGS ON THE BOOK OF JOHN Housecleaning - John 2:12-22 (NIV)

BY CONNIE HECKER After this he went down to Capernaum with his mother and brothers and his disciples. There they stayed for a few days. When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.” The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

There is something similar to the way John unfolds the experience of following Jesus to the way we experience Jesus as new believers. Filled with excitement and anticipation of what will happen next, they must wonder, How will Jesus reveal Himself next? Or think as we should, What is different about my life now that it is Jesus I follow? In this passage, John and the others, including Jesus' mom, are reminded of prophecy as they see it unfold before their eyes. And, just as in the life of a new believer, they had great excitement as each unique situation occurred, knowing that anything could happen. At the temple, Jesus cleared out the corruption that had overtaken His home, His dwelling place - not that the world recognized it as such. When faced with this evil, it was not enough for Jesus just to say, "Go away." Instead, He took time to craft the whip He was to use to scatter the corrupt ones. How did He face this evil? He did not take from them their belongings, but he forcefully drove them away from where they did not belong. He poured the money out - rejecting it, not taking it. He turned the tables. We see controlled force in His response. We see Jesus also using words of explanation to some. Which ones? To those who sold the doves. The smallest offering possible, the least expensive. The local dollar store owners. To them, He gives instructions to remove

their things, the merchandise, and then He explains why. He does not destroy anyone's livelihood in the process. Sheep and cattle will not run free, but will be contained elsewhere. The cages of the doves are not destroyed, but the owners are told to relocate them. The business was in the wrong place and dishonored God. All this response spoke a revealing truth to His followers: this temple was Jesus' true home. It was out of step and in need of forceful correction. Not destruction. Correction. • What, in my life, has gotten out of step with the truth? • Where do I need to clean my temple, my body, of those things that do not belong? • What has taken up residence in my heart that is distracting me from true worship? God, I ask you to forcefully cast out the big things and gently remove the tender things that are dishonoring you and harming our relationship. Let my heart be swept clean of corruption that I may worship you in Spirit and in truth!

Connie Hecker, MFA, is a Scenic Designer currently teaching at Liberty University. She is mom, stepmom, and grandmother to 13. Her “first career” was in interior and industrial design. Her “second” was as Manager of Operations and Maneuvers (note initials) in her extended family. Her ‘third’ is as a professor, and she looks forward to what God has in store as her “fourth” someday.

Love Notes Thanking God that He is using Women World Leaders Ministry to be a Voice of Truth to all women (and men), domestically and internationally! I look forward to receiving VOT as it is jammed packed with words of wisdom and encouragement, including testimonies and poetry and guidance through the Word for life application, along with gorgeous pictures of God's creation. Have you seen the gorgeous magazine covers? How inspiring this all is. It is amazing how God is orchestrating voices and talents from all walks of life to encourage and inspire others to draw closer and keep trusting in Him, no matter what. Psalm 66:16 (NLT) "Come and hear, all you that fear God, let me tell you what He has done for me." Revelation 12:11 (KJV) "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony." ELIZABETH GILLIAM, LOXAHATCHEE, FL

Prayers for the SONS OF THE KING

Pray with us as we intercede for our fathers, husbands, sons, and brothers! “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” (Romans 12:6-8, NIV) God, thank You for every good and perfect gift with which You have equipped Your sons. Thank You for strengthening them in their gifts, talents, and abilities for the building of Your kingdom. We know that You have called them to greatness because You are the divine source of gifts. Empower them to lean on the strength of the Holy Spirit for the use of their spiritual gifts. Encourage them in their kingdom assignments that they may not grow weary in well-doing, but that they will remember that the vision is for an appointed time and will manifest in due season if they faint not. Father God, hold up the arms of Your sons as they pursue the work of the kingdom in all of its glory. Continue to show them the gifts that You have placed on the inside of them and how You want them to use them to serve You and Your people. Grace Your sons as You did David, call them out as You did Jeremiah, and raise them up as You did the Apostle Paul to lead and guide others towards Your truth and righteousness in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Dr. Jia Conway

A BEAUTIFUL MESS BY JESSICA PRUKNER

very homeschooling parent has thought at least once to themselves, “Am I messing up my kids?” I have this thought a few times a month and I have been homeschooling my three kids for almost seven years. Doubt. That feeling of uncertainty. The never ceasing questions that repeat in my mind over and over “Am I doing this right? Am I making a mistake?” Nothing is certain. There is not a clear answer that can be Google-searched to know if you are choosing the right path for your kids. Every season in life is different. Every kid is different and has different needs, and at the end of the day there really isn’t a right or wrong answer when it comes to our kids’ educational path for their lives. Early on, when my oldest was pulled out to homeschool for first grade, I was convinced I had it all figured out from 1st to 12th grade. We are now finishing middle school and I am constantly finding myself re-evaluating her educational needs and situation. I wonder and question if being online or home with me or at a co-op or even in a private school would be the right fit for her with her ever-changing needs. If you feel like you can relate to me, then know you are not alone in these thoughts. These thoughts and questions are a normal part of the homeschooling journey. There is great news, though! God made you the wonderful parent and steward of your kids. He has promised that when you seek Him, He is always to be found, and He will direct you and give you peace in your educational decisions for your kids. Stop comparing yourself to other homeschooling families and school districts. You are a unique person with special talents and gifts that God has blessed you with to teach your kids about God and the wonderful world He has created through science, language arts, and mathematics. Every bit you invest in your kids is a unique seed that will eventually bloom into something great and wonderful one day. Mark Twain once said, “Comparison is the death of joy.” I encourage you to silence the doubt, the fears, and the worries, and teach your kids with joy! Embrace the way God created you and your kids and dive into those interests and learning capabilities. You were made for such a time as this. You have been called and set apart. Lift up your head, pour yourself another cup of coffee, and high five yourself in the mirror, because you are awesome and you can do this! Your kids are going to be amazing because God made you not just their parent, but their teacher too!

Praise and Worship As this painting evolved, God showed me that when we truly surrender and worship Him, we give all of our heart, soul, and mind, and we step into the heavenly sanctuary of His love. I felt that I had painted her arms too long and was about to correct this, and God said, Leave the arms. When you praise me, you are giving your 110%. Stretch out and fully surrender to me. She is celebrating and holding the banner of the gifts of the Spirit. The gentle movement of her arms paints a love heart on the winds of the Spirit as we pour out our love for our Lord. The colors are soft and gentle, just like the tender fatherly love He breathes on us. Galatians 5:22-26 (ESV) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Psalm 63:2-7 (TPT) I’m energized every time I enter your heavenly sanctuary to seek more of your power and drink in more of your glory. For your tender mercies mean more to me than life itself. How I love and praise you, God! Daily I will worship you passionately and with all my heart. My arms will wave to you like banners of praise.

I overflow with praise when I come before you, for the anointing of your presence satisfies me like nothing else. You are such a rich banquet of pleasure to my soul.

www.lynnehudson.com

FAITH AND FAMILY Stones of Remembrance BY DONNA WHARTENBY

ld Testament scripture tells us how God delivered His people out of slavery from Egypt. God chose Moses to lead the Israelites to the Promised Land. They spent 40 years wandering the wilderness because they did not have faith in Moses or in God’s promises. But then, they finally arrived near the Promised Land. This story is told in Joshua, chapter 4, where Joshua played a vital role for God’s people. God miraculously parted the waters of the Jordan River for them to cross. Joshua instructed one man from each of the twelve tribes to pick up a stone as they crossed the riverbank. These stones were then stacked and placed in the middle of the camp where they lived. As people walked by, seeing these stones of remembrance, they would remember how God was the center of their lives and tell the next generations the stories of God’s blessings and promises. We can use stones of remembrance today to help us remember times when we experienced God’s presence in our journeys. We need to share with our children and grandchildren who God is, what He has done in our lives, and how God is in the center of our lives. We must share His promises and His truth. How do you start? 1. Ask yourself: What are your stones of remembrance? What did God do to be in the center of your life that is important to share with your children and grandchildren? Remember how God provides, protects, and loves each of us. 2. Take your children and grandchildren on a walk to gather smooth stones, large enough to stack and pile together. Write God’s name or other identifiers on each memory stone to help you remember the unique situation(s). These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever (Joshua 4:7, NIV)

3. Make a pile of memory stones in the midst of where you live: near a front door, a nearby garden, or under a favorite tree. Set them in a place where you will walk by them regularly. When the children ask what the stones mean, share your story and teach them how God was in the center of your life and how He is still there today. 4. Gather and pile memory stones of gratitude, provision, protection, healing, faithfulness, or love and share the stories with your children and grandchildren. Teach them how God’s power and might impacted your life so they, too, will want to remember His love, power, and healing. They will soon want to tell these stories of remembrance themselves. 5. Teach your family to pray together with gratitude and thanksgiving, identifying how God is the center of your life’s journey and how He has brought blessings, joy, peace, comfort, healing, and love to your lives. Teach them to expect God to be there, and He will! If the pile of stones is not possible, some other ways you can “pile up stones of remembrance” are to: keep a family journal of gratitude, create a scrapbook with pictures documenting the details of times to remember, keep cards that are reminders of God’s blessings and interventions, or create memory cards of family gatherings where you saw God’s blessings, using stories, poems, or pictures. In these ways, you can pass on your own stories of remembrance to your children and grandchildren - the next generation. Teach them to remember the story and show them how to find God in the center of everything they do. Teach them His love. Donna grew up in a Christian home and attended weekly church activities with her family. Family is especially important in her life. She married her husband, Keith, 38 years ago and, together, they raised a nephew after his mother passed away from cancer. Donna has three grandchildren and loves to spend vacations and holidays celebrating family traditions. The Lord stirred Donna’s heart to teach women’s studies and coordinate women’s church events. Donna loves singing and traveling. She has a new passion for writing for this women’s magazine.

LIVING A HOLYSTIC LIFE Hustle Culture vs. God Culture BY MELISSA KESSLER

he hustle culture has become a thing for so many of us. Society has made us believe that we won’t get anywhere if we’re not hustling. Have you felt this strain? For me, it’s taken years to renew my mind and realize that this sweet little life is not about the hustle. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2, NIV) As a mom of two boys who are involved in sports and clubs and who enjoy hanging out with their friends; a wife to a husband who works different shifts from day-to-day; and a woman who is a business owner and serves in a multitude of ministries, the hustle is no stranger to me. Honestly, I used to brag about it with the full belief that being seen as a hustler was a badge of honor. But now, my attitude has changed drastically, but the transition wasn’t easy. Are you under the influence of pursuing the hustle? Are you watching those who seem to be making it big and thinking you can do that too? Have you been told that you must work hard and hustle to find success? Maybe it’s even that Proverbs 31 woman who has you believing the hustle is the way it should be? She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. (Proverbs 31:17, NIV) Thanks to all of the above, I had the hustle

mentality for so long. And then I started hearing God and allowing His will to infiltrate my life. Each one of us is in a different place and season, and God’s will for each of us in every season is unique. If you are a mother of young children, running them to playdates and playing with them at the park may be where you’re meant to be right now – but it is important for you to build in time for yourself, even if that means reading a book while your children are playing. And if you’re a woman with school-aged children who do things independently, then maybe life looks like dropping them at a friend’s house or the mall, but after, perhaps you can take some time for yourself. Remember, whatever season you are in, God does not intend for you to do it all - as much as you may want to. You may see women on social media or Pinterest who make it look like they do everything from running a million-dollar business to traveling the world, yet they still manage to raise babies. But everyone’s life is different, and we must be aware that the world can feed us lies and make us feel like we are not enough. I want to tell you that this is not the truth. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14, NIV) And I’m about to break some really big news to you. True success, joy, and happiness are found in doing what God is uniquely calling you to in your current season – it is not found in the hustle.

Hustle culture is not what success is about, not what happiness looks like, and is not where joy comes from. I speak from experience. I pursued the hustle culture for many years, believing it would bring me that joy I prayed for and never found it. So now I preach about God culture all day, every day. I believed the hustle culture would lead to joy and happiness, but oh, how wrong I was. I kept on running after the hustle, but it kept being thrown back in my face and getting me nowhere besides missing out on so much time being present with my kids and husband, and leading me to exhaustion that I didn’t even know was possible.

joy and happiness you’ve been searching for. I had no idea what God would have for me, but I took the chance and went for it. Instead of believing I had to control my life, business, and actions, I gave up my control to Him. And how Jesus has taken the wheel is a story for another time. Stay tuned. When I finally realized I didn’t have to do it all or stress over everything in my life, I found true joy and happiness. And SURPRISE - it has nothing to do with success or even money. Instead, it has to do with slowing down and being attentive to God’s will - each season and every day. You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. (Psalm 16:11, NLT)

So what if you take this trip with me down the road of God culture? This is a place where you’ll actually find the

TRUE SUCCESS, JOY, AND HAPPINESS ARE FOUND IN DOING WHAT GOD IS UNIQUELY CALLING YOU TO IN YOUR CURRENT SEASON – IT IS NOT FOUND IN THE HUSTLE.

Melissa is a wife and mom of two boys who are a huge inspiration in her life. She is a best-selling author, a Holistic Wellness + Hormone Educator, and helps women go from burnout to feeling ALIVE by UNhustling and balancing their hormones. She has a great passion for natural health, speaking truth, and living according to the Word of God while using her gift of faith. If you're ever looking for her, check the beach first. Learn more at melissajkessler.com

Love Notes WWL changed my life. I do not say that lightly. All of the visions and ideas were in my heart, but I didn't know where or how to start. I was still struggling to see my own true value. WWL believed in me. The women at WWL saw me through the eyes of God, through my insecurities, and through my mess. They believed in me, and they helped me to find my purpose. I learned to stop trying to hide where grace wanted to get through. I learned to see myself through God's eyes. I became a strong and brave woman - a woman with purpose. I became the woman that God had created me to be. I'm so thankful to WWL and their ability to assist God in the mission to empower all women to live intentionally. I can finally see my own wings. So have faith, dream big, and stay in the wind. "Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire." – Catherine of Siena CONNIE VAN HORN, WINSTON SALEM, NC

A Call to Men

WRITE YOUR STORY AND CHANGE THE WORLD • Do you know a man with a powerful story involving faith? • Can you connect us to a man who is honorable? One who'd be willing to write his story in our upcoming book? "United Men of Honor: Overcoming Adversity Through Faith" Please share this page with any man that comes to your mind when you think of the word "honor." Men, no experience is necessary, just a willingness to partner with other men and write this book as a mission to help others in 2022. We will assist and edit for all writers! As a noun, honor in the Bible means esteem, value, or great respect. As Christian men we need to give God the honor He deserves and become the men of honor He created us to be. "Real respect comes not in the palace but in a place of selfless, sacrificial servant leadership." We need men who possess an urgency to help impact generations with godly influence. Men who would put the interests of others above their own and openly share their faith stories with brothers. Men strive to be honored. They will learn from other men who can pour into them the spiritual masculinity traits of manhood by being selfless and opening up with vulnerabilities in order to give others hope, inspiration, and motivation to be a man after God's heart. This book is being designed to encourage men of all ages to develop honor, integrity, and leadership skills while strengthening marriages, families, and individuals through increased emphasis on their faith in God. We need young men, middle-aged men, and older men who have a God story to contact us. We pray that readers of all ages will be led to this book.

Men, does your story have some fundamental things guys can relate to that can point them toward being a significant world changer? Your God story has a purpose. Life happens. People relate to other people who have been through adversity and have overcome through their faith. We need men willing to write who have dealt with corruption in politics, business failures, moral decay, betrayal, deceit, and more. Maybe you have had a near death experience that brought you closer to the Lord. Whatever your story is, God can use it if you have a willing heart. Your story can become the voice God uses to empower a hurting world. Banding together with other men may rescue those who are drowning from the tidal wave of destruction bringing them to an entry level of knowing the power of having faith in a mighty Jehovah God. Ladies, please encourage your men to write. Ask God if they might be the story that brings honor to God, to marriages, to families, to businesses, and more by being part of the collaborative efforts of many in "United Men of Honor." Men from around the world are coming together to share about overcoming their adversity through faith and you can be part of it. Doing so can assist others to a lifechanging commission of God to walk with Him in honor, embracing a "code of an all consuming value" in every relationship encountered. Help others to become a man of honor. To write and be part of this team, please contact us by March 31:

Ken Hobbs kenhobbs2@yahoo.com

or Kimberly Hobbs kimberly@womenworldleaders.com

For more information please connect with the Facebook group: United Men of Honor. (Also on Telegram)

THE FORGOTTEN FATHERS BY VICTORIA ROBINSON

n my first book, They Lied to Us, I compiled stories from women who’d chosen abortion and how this fateful decision forever altered their lives. The first chapter in the book is my own personal story of choosing abortion over three decades ago. My second book, They Lied to Us Too, will be the stories I’ve compiled from men who participated in an abortion. It releases in early 2022. Let me take a moment to explain how and why I concluded that men are hurting from abortion too. When They Lied to Us was going to print fifteen years ago, I felt obligated to call the father of my aborted child to let him know the book would soon be released. Although I gave no identifying indicators of who he was in my story, somehow, I felt a responsibility to tell him. So, I picked up the phone. We hadn’t spoken since we had broken up over ten years prior. Nine out of ten times when an abortion occurs, couples don’t make it. Our relationship proved those facts when it ended not long after we chose to end our child’s life. Following an abortion decision, postabortive men and women report that their relationships began to deteriorate following their abortion decision. As abortion can be a very traumatic experience for the

couple, staying together is a constant reminder of what they’ve done; hence, couples often decide to part ways. Many times, couples don’t realize the part their choice played in fracturing the relationship until years later. The relationship between my boyfriend and me was never the same after our abortion. I never looked at him the same, and frankly, I don’t think he ever viewed me in the same way either. The abortion had changed us. Before our positive pregnancy test, we’d talked and planned how we would spend the rest of our lives together, but afterwards, our abortion became the elephant in the room we never discussed. However, it was always there sitting in the corner. After going through abortion healing, I decided to write my first book. I felt like he should know about it, so I decided to call him. I wanted to assure him there were no identifying factors to expose him. The decision to contact him was not an easy step, but it was something I knew was important. I also felt a sense from the Lord this was the right thing to do. Confident God was with me and would empower me to do it, I picked up the phone.

THE FORGOTTEN FATHERS CONT.

After the second ring, he answered. I was very nervous. I hadn’t heard his voice in so long. “Hey, it’s me.” There was a long pause. I knew he recognized my voice immediately. He was trying to say something, but I couldn’t understand him through the sobs coming from him. Finally, when he was able to compose himself, he said, “I’ve been waiting for this call for over a decade to ask your forgiveness. I’m so sorry for what I made you do. I should have protected you and our baby, and I failed you both. It’s haunted me all these years, and I’ve been in therapy dealing with it for eight years now. Can you please forgive me?” At that moment, I had two options. First, I could continue carrying the last bit of unforgiveness I had towards him, which would only hurt me. Or, I could choose to do as Christ asks in Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (NIV) That Scripture alone should be a wake-up call, but those still too stubborn to forgive may want to read Matthew 6:15: “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (NIV) Each day, I’m grateful for His grace and mercy because each day, I need it. There comes a time in everyone’s life when we must face up and own our own decisions. Eventually we must decide to stop blaming others for the choices we’ve made.

AT THAT MOMENT, I HAD TWO OPTIONS. FIRST, I COULD CONTINUE CARRYING THE LAST BIT OF UNFORGIVENESS I HAD TOWARDS HIM, WHICH WOULD ONLY HURT ME. OR, I COULD CHOOSE TO DO AS CHRIST ASKS IN EPHESIANS 4:32.

In our phone conversation consisting of minutes, I forgave him. My life was forever changed. His was as well.

The multi-billion-dollar abortion industry uses specific strategies to manipulate men and women every single day in this country. And it’s been quite successful for decades. A man holds both power and influence when his girlfriend or wife finds herself in a crisis pregnancy. One tactic used to encourage abortions is to diminish the appearance of the importance of the man’s role as the woman’s partner and the father of their unborn child. For years, society has been telling men, “It’s not your body. Therefore, you have no rights in her decision.” Newsflash - here’s a scientific fact: it’s not her body either. For decades men have heard, “You need to just support her, no matter what she does. Keep your mouth shut.” As a result, men simply don’t know what to do, and they suffer both in the short term and the long term. Therefore, to heal this epidemic, we must begin changing the narrative. I spoke recently at a men’s event with hundreds of men in attendance. I shared my own story and the story of “the phone call.” Afterward, men stood in line for up to two hours to meet me. It wasn’t to tell me I was a great speaker. Instead, they wanted to confess their abortions. Through tears, these men were begging for help. They told me they’d never been able to commit to a woman, had issues bonding with their children, had substance or alcohol abuse problems, and had become quite promiscuous. These men were in pain. The majority used the word “haunted.” God made women to be nurturers, to give life. But God made men to be the protectors of their women and children. When a woman faces the reality of abortion and realizes she ended the life of her own child, it’s devastating. Just the same, when a man faces the reality of the part he played in the abortion of his own child, he’s haunted. After the phone call with my ex-boyfriend, I felt the Lord speak two things to me. First, He showed me that I still had unforgiveness in my heart towards this man. Secondly, He showed me clearly that men are hurting too and that I must never forget that. These children

also had fathers, and their fathers have the same regret and remorse as the mothers.

ALTHOUGH THE WORLD TELLS MEN TO SIT DOWN AND SHUT UP WHEN THE ISSUE PERTAINS TO ABORTION, WE MUST ENCOURAGE MEN TO STAND UP AND PROTECT THEIR CHILDREN.

Although the world tells men to sit down and shut up when the issue pertains to abortion, we must encourage men to stand up and protect their children. They must take their rightful place as fathers if we have any hope of seeing a nation turned from its wicked ways. In our country today, we are witnessing a moral decline like never before in our history. I’m convinced this is partly due to the misguided role of the unborn child’s father and how society diminishes his role as a father. A man may apathetically turn away from the pregnancy, or feign apathy, to support his partner. Or he may fearfully offer to do the “right thing” by paying for the abortion, thus ending his own child’s life. And this adherence to the rules of society not only contributes to the death of the unborn child, but also causes untold pain and damage to the father’s life. Men do matter. Their role in the family matters. Their position as a father is crucial to a healthy society. In the research for my book, They Lied to Us Too, I heard from men from across the United States. They were relieved to share their stories with me. Some of these men had never shared their stories with anyone before and just “needed to tell someone.” They were grateful I took the time to listen. So many men I’ve met at conferences, churches, or throughout my travels have expressed the same sentiment. Man after man all shared the same pain, yet they had never met one another. This is no coincidence. There’s a shift happening, and it’s going to be swift. Men are starting to speak up and speak out. They are finding the courage to tell their stories because they want to make a difference and help keep someone else from making the same mistake.

THE FORGOTTEN FATHERS CONT.

It’s time for men to take their place on the issue of abortion. They need to be heard. They deserve to be heard. I dedicate this article to the fathers of unborn children. Especially to those of you who live with the pain and regret of talking your partner into an abortion, paying for it, standing by and supporting her decision to have an abortion, or begging her not to do it. And... • To the fathers who were never given a voice. • To the fathers who were never given a choice. • To the fathers who didn’t know. • To the fathers who live with regret. • To the fathers who live with the shame. • To the fathers who’ve been silenced for far too long. • To the fathers who couldn’t stop her. • To the fathers who left. •To the fathers who ran from responsibility. You deserve healing, hope, and redemption. Aborted children had fathers. We must stop denying these children the dignity and the role their fathers played in their short-lived lives. And we must stop denying these men the right to be fathers. I dedicate this piece to The Forgotten Fathers.

ABORTED CHILDREN HAD FATHERS. WE MUST STOP DENYING THESE CHILDREN THE DIGNITY AND THE ROLE THEIR FATHERS PLAYED IN THEIR SHORT-LIVED LIVES. AND WE MUST STOP DENYING THESE MEN THE RIGHT TO BE FATHERS.

Victoria Robinson has been a pro-life leader for over two decades. She’s worked in pregnancy resource center ministry, travels around the country speaking at churches, fundraisers, and conferences worldwide. She’s the Founder of ReAssemble, a non-profit ministry offering afterabortion recovery retreats. You can visit her website at reassemblelife.com for more information. Victoria lives outside Nashville, TN.

Walk with Me Relationship, Responsibility, and Resilience. God is calling us to go deeper in our relationship with Him, to follow Him, and to grow deeper in trusting Him. He has us on a journey, and we can’t always see the direction of the path, but He will lead us faithfully. There will always be storms on the horizon, but we are to focus on the blue skies, the dawning of a new season. God gives us the resilience to recover from these storms so we can celebrate our victories. We have a responsibility to nurture our relationship with God so that we can experience the clarity of His love. Just like the billions of grains of sand, His love is never-ending. Jeremiah 29:13 ESV ”You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”

www.lynnehudson.com

FAITH WALK: THE PHYSICIAN’S TOUCH BY DR. CHIDI KALU

very word that God speaks can sustain us beyond measure. In 2015, I went for what seemed to be a routine woman's wellness exam when suddenly, the doctor handed me a series of alarming reports. The doctor ordered further testing to rule out cancer of the cervix.

“I believe, I believe; I receive Lord, it's for me,” I cried out. That was my medicine, and I held on to it for dear life. I must have declared that promise a thousand times.

Waiting a couple of weeks for a biopsy test result to come back is like waiting for an eternity. The feeling you get when you are in an unknown zone is indescribable. It didn't help that I began having excruciating abdominal pains that came out of nowhere a day later. Since I could barely hold any food down, I immediately watched my weight plummet rapidly.

Any time we read the Word, it builds our faith and gives us life and healing. However, once you believe and stand on God's Word, don't be surprised if everything in your life stands opposite and contrary to this truth. Your finances may not be where they need to be; the kids may be sick here and there, and your relationship is in dire need of being rescued from the brink of disaster. Yet God says His Word is sure, and He honors His Word above His very name.

Being a woman of prayer, I asked the Lord what was going on. Then, amid the bombardment of the voice of the enemy telling me how I was on my way to dying, I heard a whisper of the Holy Spirit say, “I am with you, do not fear.” In my mind, I almost replied, “Do not fear? That’s easy for you to say, Lord.” But I knew better, and I chose to believe. Several doctor visits and more tests later, no one could figure out what was wrong. I had already lost over 35 pounds within a few short weeks. On one of those days, after leading my weekly payer call, I crawled into bed with barely any energy left, not sure how I had made it through. I glanced at my Bible on my bedstand and felt compelled to read a scripture. I opened to Jeremiah 30:17 (NLT) I will give you back your health and heal your wounds, says the Lord. For you are called an outcast, Jerusalem for whom no one cares. There it was, it stood out to me, my promise.

I have often asked myself what causes me to come back time and time again to God's Word, even during terrible circumstances. It's a conscious choice we make daily to walk by faith and never to look back at what seems like a defeat, but look forward to better, bigger, and more exceedingly. If God never fails and we truly believe He doesn't, then the only other option is to know that our situations cannot win. Each day as I confessed the Word over my life, I began seeing a few changes for the better. I would love to say that it was instant, but in this case, it was a journey. I will never forget the turning point, though. It was when the phone rang from the doctor's office, and what a relief when I heard my biopsy came back negative for cancer. I didn't have to go through a hysterectomy after all. All glory to God.

Still holding on to God's Word and prayers, I began making dietary changes. After two years of the ordeal of abdominal pain and having lost over 65 pounds, I was completely delivered, and my health restored to the glory of God; hallelujah! As you trust and take the Father at His Word, no matter the diagnosis or circumstance or length of the illness, God's life-giving Word has the power to heal and deliver you. Whichever way God chooses to work, know that the Great Physician – Jesus! – will bring you through all challenges. You will smile, laugh, and testify, for you are an overcomer through Christ Jesus. Only faith in His Word can empower you to live again. Dr. Chidi Kalu has taught in the areas of Management, Customer Service and Leadership Development for many years. Also, the Founder of Women of Distinction and God's VIP Inc. On a regular basis, she delivers a message of encouragement, hope, love and faith by empowering and equipping women of all walks of life to a new and powerful beginning after a significant life event. As a prolific speaker, Chidi ministers to the secular and non-secular world with a strong cutting-edge word. She is an Author, Empowerment Coach and Corporate Trainer and committed to the ministry of the Gospel with a heart and passion to see all of God's children live a fulfilling life centered on Jesus Christ. She currently serves as a leader and consultant to her local church in Atlanta GA. She is a leader and board member with Women World Leaders where she loves to pray and encourage Women to live a purposeful life of faith by God's design.

Love Notes Women World Leaders creates a worldwide community that promotes fellowship and an atmosphere of self-confidence for women everywhere to attain their best in the things God has provided for them. Women World Leaders strives to unite all women regardless of their location and establish a relationship to make us aware we are sisters with the same goals. We have opportunities to experience emotional stability, strength to face life challenges, courage to trust God, and faith to know that “With God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26 KJV) My life has been tremendously challenged by reading this magazine. I am inspired to continue to love and trust God and cherish the bond with my sisters. The constant prayers and fellowship along with the encouragement to move forward are the forces that keep us together and the understanding that nothing is impossible. EILEEN HAASE, CORAL SPRINGS, FL

Nonna’s kNOWledge Pray Powerful Prayers NOW B Y C A R O LY N J O Y

s a Mom and Nonna of 16 beautiful smiles, I know the importance of prayer. I grew up in the faith, and although my life hasn’t always been perfect, I have always prayed. This is especially true when it comes to praying for my children and grandchildren. This world is spiraling out of control, and now more than ever, it’s imperative to get on my knees and take the time to cover my family in prayer. God’s Word reminds us in Proverbs 22:6 (ESV), “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” I pray for each child by name. I pray for their health, wellbeing, spiritual growth, and sexual purity. While they are young, I pray for what their eyes may see and their ears may hear. I pray they make good friends, friends can be a big influence on their daily choices. I pray that at an early age they understand the importance of prayer and that they themselves will take the time to learn how to pray. My prayer time and the way I pray come in a variety of capacities. Every morning I set a specific time to pray and continue to pray until I have prayed through my prayer list. Sometimes I go for a long, brisk walk. With praise music streaming through my AirPods, I pray for anything and everything that comes to my mind. Prayer is also an ongoing conversation with God. He is always there and readily available. When the Lord brings someone to mind, I begin to pray. I pray when I’m driving and while I’m cooking. I pray at work, while I’m shopping, and even while I’m getting dressed. My sweetest prayer moments are when I’m speaking with one of my dear loved ones, and they just happen to tell me a need. That is the best instance to stop and say, “Can I pray with you right now?”

Every young person’s future is filled with endless choices and infinite possibilities. We, as parents and grandparents, have a unique opportunity to direct and guide a child’s path. Do not underestimate the power of prayer and do not misjudge the power you hold to direct and guide young hearts and minds toward God. The Bible says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of Jesus Christ for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV) Prayer is something we all have the ability to do, any time of the day or night, any place, and in any circumstance. Our God is a good god, and He wants us to be in fellowship with Him. Our Father is a father who wants us to talk with Him, and He wants to talk with us. He is never too busy, and He will never push us away or walk away. Philippians 4:6 (ESV) says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” If there was ever a time to pray powerful prayers… it is NOW! Nonna’s chuckles: I was with four of my granddaughters (ages 3, 7, 7, and 9) when my phone beeped a text message with a prayer request from a friend. I told them the prayer request was for a little girl with a brain tumor, and I asked them if they wanted to stop and pray. My three-year-old was the first to volunteer. “Dear Jesus please make her better. Help her to be kind and share her toys and not cry. Help her to sleep through the night, not be scared of monsters and not wake up her mommy and daddy. Amen.” (Sometimes, we pray for others the very things we need for ourselves!)

TEA TIME WITH TINA Get A Grip on the Gossip

BY TINA GALLO

’m sure we’ve all heard the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me!” As children, we may have believed that. But we all know that isn’t true, right? Words are very powerful. They can bring great joy or deeply wound, causing severe pain and misery. Proverbs 18:21 (ESV) says it like this, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." The tongue has the power of life and death? I’d say that’s pretty serious. The stakes are high. Our words CAN either speak life or death. Our tongues can build others up, or they can tear others down. Just like an unchecked fire doubles in size every minute, gossip and false teaching are no different. It’s been said that great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, and small minds discuss people. Let’s be real and honest. As women who emotionally connect and relate to each other, it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of gossip! Whether we’ve been gossiped about and been on the receiving end of angry vices, or whether we’ve been enticed and tempted to speak an ill word about someone else, we’ve all been there. We know the truth - sticks and stones can break our bones, AND words can hurt our hearts. So what do we do when our ears are itching? Stand firm in your resolve, harnessing God’s power only to speak what is good and true. This may involve choosing your friends wisely so that gossip does not become a standard in your life. You may have to separate yourself from a gossip-filled conversation, refusing to partake so that you do not inadvertently damage someone’s reputation. And when offended, let God fight your battle! The Bible tells us that "A perverse man stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends." (Proverbs 16:28, NIV) And "The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent." (Exodus 14:14, NIV)

TEA TIME WITH TINA CONT.

I once asked a very successful woman to share her secret with me. She smiled and said to me, “I started succeeding when I started leaving small fights for small fighters. I left such fights for those who have nothing else to fight...And I started fighting for my vision, my dreams, my ideas, and my destiny. The day I gave up on small fights is the day I started becoming successful and so much more content.” Gossip is the breeding ground for small fights. As women who often lean on each other, we must take care to support one another without willfully cutting others down. The Bible gives us clear guidelines regarding our speech. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29 NIV)

GOSSIP IS THE BREEDING GROUND FOR SMALL FIGHTS. AS WOMEN WHO OFTEN LEAN ON EACH OTHER, WE MUST TAKE CARE TO SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER WITHOUT WILLFULLY CUTTING OTHERS DOWN.

We must be a body of Christ that safeguards our very beings against this venom. May we be those that love through His love and live by His love. If you have been a part of a gossiping party, which most of us can openly confess we have, know that you are not beyond God’s grace! Pause and pray right now and ask the Lord to give you the power and His measure of love toward others! Because God is our defender, we do not need to allow insecurity, unkindness, bitterness, or anger lead us into gossiping! And we don’t need someone else to validate a relationship or situation when we have the living God to understand the problem. Lord Jesus, forgive me for slandering my neighbor, instead help me to love my neighbor. Jesus, help me to forgive those who have wounded my heart by their words and false accusations. Free my heart from holding onto this pain. Let all the words used against me and those I’ve used against others be dismantled by your love! Guard my tongue and let my heart honor you above the temptation to gossip! In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Tina is an award-winning actress, best-selling author, speaker, and acting coach. Best known for her role as DiDi on the soap opera General Hospital, Tina is the founder of ‘The Nashville Studio of Method Acting. She also traveled with Frank Sinatra selling his merchandise for 2 1/2 years. Tina is currently writing her next book, Unfiltered, and has made appearances on Christian Broadcast Network and Daystar Television, sharing her testimony of God’s faithfulness.

BAND OF BROTHERS Please join us for 1 day, 2 days or all 4 days! May 19-22, 2022 Register at www.bandofbrothersfl.com Ladies, please share this with the men in your lives – your husband or boyfriend, sons, sonsin-law, nephews, and friends. They all need what this bootcamp offers. Band of Brothers is ready to meet them where they are. Band of Brothers has the answer to the war on men! Men gather to form a brotherhood and learn how to be a better husband, father, and friend. They share release of deep life wounds through the power of forgiveness. A life change is the victory at a Band of Brothers Bootcamp.

Man approved activities include:

Food, Lodging each day, and Activities included

•Gun range

Discounts available now:

•Archery

Code - Women World Leaders

•Fishing •Boating •Alligator Wrestling • Football •Soccer •Cornhole •Dominoes

The deadline to receive this discount is April 15th Scholarships are also available

Contact Ken Hobbs at kenhobbs2@yahoo.com 87

COURAGE IN ACTION We never know the impact we have on a child or person’s life when we invest in them. This new year, be “othersfocused” and you could be the one that rescues a child or a person from despair and destruction. We pray this story written by our precious Dineo will inspire and encourage you to be Jesus to those in need. You can “be” the difference!

Dr. Jennie Cerullo and Dr. Marcia Ball Co-Founders & Executive Directors of Kerus Global To learn more or to donate to Kerus, visit: www.kerusglobal.org

Dineo

y upbringing was not as smooth

well-being as I became more confident and came to

as butter compared to those of my

the knowledge of my strengths.

age. The situation at the time forced me to grow and own up to everything around me at a very tender age. I had to be responsible and care for my younger brothers and sister as well as my disabled mom.

leadership skills and fell in love with assisting my peers and those younger than me with their homework. The idea of helping my peers with their homework started molding my career path, and by the time I was in my matric (senior year of high school), I already

Unfortunately, my mom cannot do

knew my passion was to teach. I decided I would

anything on her own, so as the oldest

enroll at UNISA (one of the top universities in South

I became the parent as a young

Africa). With God continuing to bless me, in 2019 I

girl. However, in the midst of these

met the love of my life, a wonderful, Godly man who

struggles, I got rescued by my super

is now my husband.

home Kerus. When I was 15 years old doing Grade 9, I got welcomed in the warm, loving, and caring home of Kerus, (Go Amogela Orphan Care Center), where I was helped with my homework and gained life skills through the "It Takes Courage!" program they offered every day after school. The center helped me a lot with different things including needed items like toiletries. The Kerus staff is loving, caring, and so kind. They would send us home with food parcels which made a huge difference in my household as we only survived on small social grants. Being at the center helped me understand how deeply I was loved by God and motivated me a lot in terms of my social

During the years I spent at the center I developed

I thank God and appreciate the Kerus center for all the blessings in my life. Thank you so much for all you have done for me and my family. I am forever grateful to have been given the opportunity to be in such a safe and loving home at the center because I honestly don't want to think of how messed up my life would have been if I didn't get the privilege to go to Kerus. I see how some of my peers from Soshanguve have turned out to be; some have given their lives to alcohol and drugs, some have given up in life and are now in prostitution. It pains me so much to see this happen in my community and to my friends. Because

of this sadness, I made the decision that I will be the change I want to see! I continue to encourage the children that I attended the center with that it is possible to pass matric, further their studies, make good choices, and follow Jesus. I am privileged to mark the first child to finish matric at Kerus Go Amogela Orphan Care Center and now I’m so happy that many others are following. I want to take this opportunity and thank you Dr. Jennie and Dr. Marcia for the impact you made in my life through Kerus and I want you to know that I love you and I appreciate you. May God bless you and all my American Families out there who are still making waves and changing the lives of my fellow brothers and sisters as you did with mine. I just can't hold back the joy and appreciation I have for you. And...

It really "Takes Courage!"

In 2015 at an orphan care center

...and now with my precious husband!

1 CARING FOR AND PROTECTING VULNERABLE ORPHANS 2 PROMOTING HIV/AIDS & SEX TRAFFICKING PREVENTION 3 DEVELOPING COURAGEOUS LEADERS LEARN MORE ABOUT THE KERUS STORY AT: WWW.KERUSGLOBAL.ORG

Voice of Truth Stories TOGETHER WE ARE WORLD CHANGERS How are you sharing Voice of Truth? Write us. We want to share your "joy" of spreading the gospel of Christ throughout the world.

info@womenworldleaders.com

MEET JANET HARLLEE FROM ASHBORO, NC

i, I’m Janet. I never really thought about retiring, but, at the age of 70, it was time. So, I retired to repurpose, because God’s work is never done. I asked God, “What do I do next? What do you want me to do?” He pressed on my heart to do a broadcast where men and women share their faith stories to encourage others. So, in September 2020, Faith In An Ever-Changing World- encouragement & hope was launched. I’ve talked with Dana Cryer, who shared her story of being abandoned at the hospital by her mom, having no identity, going to live with her aunt and uncle, and then being kidnapped at the age of five by her own father and found at the age of 11. But God… After a time, Dana accepted Jesus and received forgiveness. Then Dana gave forgiveness to her mom and her dad. Marcos Santibanez was a drug lord, and God saved him from that life and placed him behind the pulpit. I’ve talked with Kimberly Hobbs, who shared that she surrendered it all at the Garden Tomb one winter evening while visiting Israel. It catapulted her into a life of redemption through Jesus Christ’s forgiveness. Her husband, Ken, talked about his amazing spiritual legacy of 200 years of his ancestors being godly men, and what God has done through him to touch men and women through his ministries. The stories go on and on… The Lord has crossed my path with those in the faith-based film industry, developing many friendships with brothers and sisters in Christ. My heart is blessed! I’ll continue to do the broadcast until He has something else for me to do. 90

I always look forward to receiving Voice of Truth magazine and reading the encouraging stories. God speaks through these pages to both men and women, showcasing how He forgives and heals our broken pieces and puts us back together. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:12 NIV) The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:10 ESV) The stories also reveal how our faith can be tested. We must trust in Him. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV) VOT is a beautifully written, photographed, and published magazine. It draws me in to want to read it and share it with my friends. These stories give me hope and inspiration! It’s a treasure to me! We are all called to go and spread the gospel. Join me in praying that VOT will continue its global reach, glorifying God.

MEET CANDICE DANIEL FROM SANFORD, FL

y name is Candice Daniel. My husband, soul mate, and best friend, Eddie, and I have lived in Sanford, Florida for eight years and are the proud parents of four amazing children. I am a spirit-filled daughter of the living King. I am a wife, mother, sister, leader, and friend. I am a Women World Leader. My spiritual journey started at the age of 13 when I dedicated my life to Christ. Since then, I have always been extremely involved with serving in my church and community. I've always had a deep desire to encourage and inspire others to find their God-given talents and use them to live out God’s purpose and calling for their lives. I wholeheartedly believe that God has designed every one of us with unique gifts, and He desires us to use those gifts to reach others and share the truth of the gospel with the world!

I became a part of Women World Leaders in the spring of 2020. After reaching out to Kimberly Hobbs, I knew immediately that this is where the Holy Spirit was leading me. It was exactly where God wanted me to serve. After hearing about the ministry and how it began, my heart was filled with joy and peace that I had never experienced before. I quickly jumped into leadership and stepped out in faith to write for the very first time in my life, becoming an author in Courageous Steps of Faith. I began to experience the fullness of the presence of God in a mighty way. I, once again, found that fire that I had not felt since first giving my life to Christ. A flame was reignited in the core of my being. It has been nothing short of a miraculous and amazing journey ever since. I have had the opportunity to connect other leaders with Women World Leaders through supernatural doors that only God could open and no man could shut. With a heart to network as a “mom-entrepreneur,” I have seen other women walk empowered through heartfelt conversations and the desire to share their life experiences, stories, and testimonies. This magazine continues to shine light into the lives of others all around the world. I am in awe as I witness all that God has done! I have had the honor and privilege of serving and seeing women strengthened, equipped, and sent out to impact other women in their own sphere of influence. I have seen lives transformed by the Holy Spirit and souls saved for the Kingdom. Being a leader in this ministry has given me an overflowing heart to serve my community. I have continued to walk in full obedience to His will, to see hearts changed and lives saved by the gospel of Jesus Christ. Mine included! Through this ministry and publication, we continue to share the love of Christ with the world. We want the world to know that with a repentant heart and prayer, God CAN and WILL do exceedingly and abundantly more than you can ever think or imagine! My heart has been further stirred with a deep compassion to see lives changed through this ministry. My heart rejoices with peace, abundance, laughter, grace, and mercy to see others walk in freedom as conquerors through Christ Jesus. I am eternally grateful to Kimberly Hobbs for this ministry. Thank you, Kimberly, for the opportunity to serve. Thank you for being obedient and answering God’s call on your life and inspiring others to do the same. You are a light shining bright for Christ Jesus, and you are helping others find their light and shine it brightly too! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am grateful!

VOICE OF TRUTH STORIES CONT.

MEET KELLY WILLIAMS HALE FROM JACKSONVILLE, FL

i! My name is Kelly Williams Hale, and I am honored to share my story. I am happily married to my amazing husband, Buddy, and mom to 10-year-old Austin and my two grownup kids, Christie and Dallas. I’m also a Mimi to three wonderful grandchildren. God has kept me busy with my parenting assignment! I was introduced to Women World Leaders back in 2020 by my dear friend, Candice Daniel. A year that changed so many lives; it changed mine as well. In the best way. I started 2020 with the best intentions: truly stepping into my calling and growing my ministry. “I am really going to do this!” I said to myself. Then the pandemic hit and changed everything. But I trusted God. As I was transitioning to working from home (a dream I’d had for many years!), God was doing His thing behind the scenes.

One thing I love about Women World Leaders is their founding scripture: Ephesians 3:20. I was trusting God during 2020 and believed that He would do “abundantly more” than I could imagine. I claimed this truth for myself, and I must say that He delivered. When we let go of what we think we need – or even want – and simply trust God, He really can do more than we ask. My obedience was rewarded when God provided such clear direction on how I should spend my time and energy. He opened doors at the beginning of 2021 that only He could have done. One such blessing was being invited to write for one of the two books that Women World Leaders published in 2021, Victories: Claiming Freedom in Christ. I was already receiving daily blessing from the content I found online as well as the articles in the Voice of Truth magazine. I was so excited! The other very specific direction I heard from God was to pursue my ministry (again!) and a life coaching business. I'm a graphic artist by profession, but my heart's desire is to encourage women. Specifically, women who have endured heartache, made bad decisions, or struggle with self-doubt. I believe God has a plan for all of us. And He offers forgiveness and love. Not too long ago, I was one of those women who needed encouragement. As a young woman, I made mistakes and felt the sting of consequences. As a single mom, I faced daily challenges. I could barely forgive myself for my poor choices; how could God forgive me? I was sure I wasn't 'good enough’ for Him to love me. Thankfully, He loves us because of WHO we are – not WHAT we do. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV) My journey has brought me to many places – both peaks and valleys – but the place I'm most excited about is NOW. All we have is today. Jesus said, "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" (Matthew 6:27 NLT) I’d love to hear from you! Check out: www.thebebravelife.com and grab your copy of my free e-book titled: You are enough. 5 steps to slay self-doubt and start living your best life. May God bless you and the continued success of Women World Leaders!

MEET EURECKA R. CHRISTOPHER FROM PARKLAND, FL

am a wife, mother of 3, and an avid participant in my local and international community. I am a first-generation college graduate in my family, a migrant of the Bahamas. I have obtained a double Master of Science in Accounting and Finance Management and currently pursuing my Doctoral in Business at Walden University in Organizational Leadership. I am the current Chief Financial Officer of the Miami Association of Realtors, working in the position for the past 15 years. I have dedicated my life to encouraging women who survive or may be going through domestic/abusive relationships. My passion is to help them become financially independent and obtain their education. I also volunteer through various community organizations that gather feminine supplies for backpacks for women in shelters, working with first-time home buying programs, credit education, and clean up. I have also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, March of Dimes, The Trayvon Martin Foundation, Footprints across Haiti, and IPAWs (animal rescue). I work as needed behind the scenes on the Women World Leaders’ finance team. I also pray on the prayer line for those women who are hurting and carrying so many burdens. I praise and worship the Lord through lyrical praise dance with my team at our home church, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. I have actively participated for the past ten years. I became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority in the Fall of 2019 through the "undeniable, unmistakable, unstoppable" Upsilon Alpha Zeta Chapter with the inspirational chapter Basileus Dr. Ebony Coney. Dr. Coney's motto for the chapter is to "level up" and use your talents to uplift Zeta. I champion that motto in my Zeta walk. I am the chapter's financial secretary, the Foundation Treasurer, Zeta

Male Network chair, and the state of Florida Budget/ EIN/Vendor Coordinator. I have completed the Zeta Organizational Leadership Cohort#9 and the Zeta Professional Leadership Institute (Barbara Moore Scholar) Cohort #1. I live my life with the purpose of "setting up the next generation and putting them in a better position than the last." Breaking generational curses and instilling young women in a "nothing can you stop you but you" mentality. I look forward to representing Zeta within the NPHC as Treasurer, where I hope to let my Zeta light shine. Voice of Truth magazine has been such a blessing inspiring many women and men around the world. The true-life stories of women who have overcome the devil’s attacks, allowing the Lord to use it all for His good, are encouraging. I look forward to receiving the beautifully designed and thoughtfully put-together magazine. Our plans are never greater than what the Lord has designed, and I am proud to be associated with this ministry. WWL prayed for me when I lost my oldest son and came together to help me wipe my tears. My heart was so full of joy to know the genuine love I did receive. Pure, self-sacrificing, un-adulterated love is what they offer to the weak. Women from all over the world feel the same love through technology - the love is real. God bless WWL as it continues to grow.

VOICE OF TRUTH STORIES CONT.

MEET KAREN DAVIS FROM FRANKLIN, TN Ephesians 1:4-6 (NKJV) Just as he chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. As I read this scripture, I think of God’s great love for us before we were even created. He had it all planned out and knew us before the world began. As I serve others, my greatest goal is to display God’s love through comforting or encouraging words or acts of kindness or service. Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; I will proclaim your greatness. Psalm 145:6 (NLT) That is what Voice of Truth magazine does. It provides stories and lessons of God’s hope written by fellow women to help impart wisdom, strength, love, and encouragement. We are all in the body of Jesus Christ to help serve and empower each other to have abundant, fulfilling lives in God through service. It takes each one of us together to do that. I personally try to read a Voice of Truth article each day. It provides encouragement and scripture to help me in each day’s activities and the journeys in my life. The older issues are online at womenworldleaders.com, which is so convenient if you’re traveling or don’t have your hard copy with you. I share Voice of Truth magazine or the link to subscribe with family, friends, church members, and anyone I come across daily. I have given copies to my doctors, people on the street, people waiting in line with me at stores, a tour guide helping me, staff taking temperatures at an entrance due to covid, and while on the phone with a prayer line. God’s encouragement is needed everywhere. It is in our unity in Jesus Christ that believers stay strong and have the joy God wants us to have. The Lord is my strength and song; he has given me victory. (Psalm 118:14 NLT)

I have used Voice of Truth to minister to residents and staff in my independent retirement living community. The ages here vary from 50 to the early 90’s. It is amazing to see the smiles and happiness the magazine brings. I attend an inspirational writing and sharing group and have given each woman and one man who also attends the magazine. We meet in the chapel for a warm hour of prayer and reading and sharing writing that inspires us. One resident brought the Voice of Truth magazine to read an article to inspire everyone. These loving people come from all walks of life. There is a man in his 50’s recovering from a stroke that damaged his right eye, arm, and leg. Prior to his stroke, he was a busy computer programmer. Another is a brilliant retired college professor who taught hundreds of students and writes beautifully. She is facing a fourth heart surgery. Others are retired and have grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each is facing their own life challenges, whether it be health issues with heart, cancer, stroke, memory issues that affect their independence, relationship issues, adult children with addictions, or loneliness due to the death of a spouse or divorce. Each is a special child of God predestined and known before the start of the world by a loving God who knew us and knew we needed Voice of Truth magazine and the articles to share, inspire, and strengthen us. I’m thankful for the heart of Kimberly Hobbs, who had this vision of Women World Leaders and Voice of Truth. It goes beyond women to touch the lives of men and families. A true blessing.

MEET AMBER MCDANIEL FROM FLORIDA, THE SUNSHINE STATE

i there! My name is Amber McDaniel. Voice of Truth has played such a key part in creating such beautiful connections and opportunities. I am so thankful for Melissa Kessler, one of the writers for Voice of Truth and one of my very close friends, for introducing me to this magazine and this community of women. It was an incredible treat to receive my first magazine. Loads of beautiful stories written within have sparked encouragement and connections for which I am so thankful. I especially love seeing the pop-up poems throughout the magazine because I LOVE writing poetry. May I share one of my poems with you now? THE TRIANGLE BUTTON Philippians 2:12-17 A button is round A button is square, This triangle button says, “It’s not fair!” “Can you believe it?” The button exclaimed! “A triangle shape isn’t how I'm supposed to be made.” The triangle button grumbled and huffed, as two little fingers picked him out of the bunch. Surrounded now by a sea of green, He couldn’t help but begin to feel seen.

Thankful for being used creatively, He now understood, He was perfectly made, UNmistakably. As we unite as Women World Leaders and share our UNmistakable stories boldly, SO MUCH healing takes place, not just for ourselves but for others too. It’s like giving others the permission to lean into the arms of Jesus and assure them that He is a safe place, even in the most painful places. This little connection paved the way for me to connect with Kimberley Hobbs, the founder of Voice of Truth, and I am so grateful for the opportunity she gave me to experience what I call the ‘Sacred Safe Space’ to share my story with the world as a guest on their podcast. Getting to know the heart behind WWL has been such a pleasure. I am in awe of the beauty that has come from a friend sharing her passion with me. Thank you, Melissa, for being your bold self and introducing me to Voice of Truth. Amber is CO-Creator of UNCoached, Vice-President of Kintsugi Collective (a 501c3 nonprofit), and founder of AMspiration Creations. When she is not coaching for UNcoached, serving in her community, and creating prophetic art, she is dancing for God’s glory. She is married to her husband Marty and is mama to Emilia and many feathered and furry babies (chickens and cats). Learn more at uncoached.biz or find her on Facebook @ambersmcdaniel

For this was a desire he had all along, But who could love a button who was made wrong? The silence was then broken with squeals of excitement. “Thank you mom! Green is my favorite!” The button opened his eyes ever so slowly. A bigger picture he could finally see more clearly. Could it be that his maker didn’t in fact make a mistake? You mean it wouldn’t have been better to be a pancake? Upon a green dress he was carefully placed. In the center of a bow, on a little girl's waste. 95

VOICE OF TRUTH STORIES CONT.

MEET DEBBIE PRICE FROM LAKE WORTH, FL

ebbie Price is the owner and master stylist/colorist at the beautiful Soho Style Hair Salon in Lake Worth, Florida, where she met the Founder of Women World Leaders, Kimberly Hobbs. Kimberly is one of Debbie's current clients.

Debbie, Jewish by birth, loves to engage with Kimberly, connecting as friends at her hair salon. Whenever Kimberly comes in for her hair service, they discuss the Christian ministry Women World Leaders, Voice of Truth magazine, and World Publishing and Productions. Debbie has grown to love Voice of Truth, seeing the hope, healing, and good news it brings to others. Debbie feels VOT is a magazine that is very well organized, and because she recognized it as such and loves it with her own eyes, she felt it would be impressive to share it with her ex-husband, who is an avid reader, an excellent writer, and a person in need of healing. Debbie had a plan and brought a copy of the publication to Carter Price, the father of her children. The particular issue she chose happened to include the advertisement for Band of Brothers’ Fall Bootcamp Event in Lake Wales, FL. Carter received the magazine from Debbie and read it from cover to cover! The Band of Brothers Bootcamp ad jumped out to him so vividly, offering many adventurous things that captured his attention, intriguing him deeper. Debbie encouraged Carter to attend, feeling he could benefit from having a community of men in his solitary lifestyle. She followed up with him several times, urging him to investigate this ministry with a mission for men. Carter emphasized to Debbie that he really wanted to attend. And although Debbie believed Carter was already a spiritual person, she wanted him to go and receive a deeper personal connection with Christ. Debbie is Jewish, but she said she knows enough about Chris96

tianity to know that Jesus is good and that this event would be a good thing. As God would have it, Carter contacted Ken Hobbs and arranged to attend the November 2021 Bootcamp. And then he packed up his gear and headed to camp with the guys. A life-changing impact occurred indeed! Not only did Debbie witness a radical change in her ex-husband upon his return, but in the months that followed, so did their adult children and other family members who spent time around Carter. With exceptional joy, they are all astounded at the miraculous change they see in the life of Carter Price since he returned. God has an ultimate plan for Carter's life. He used Debbie to share Voice of Truth, the ad to draw Carter to the event, and Band of Brothers to bring the gospel message of Jesus Christ to this man's heart. God knew exactly what Carter needed to be able to release his burden and experience freedom, allowing inner forgiveness and healing to take root, fulfilling His divine plan. Both God and Debbie knew Carter needed to feel love and attention while receiving guidance and community from a group of men. God provided it at just the right time in Carter's life. Debbie feels this was truly a miracle, and she is eternally grateful.

Below is a letter Carter wrote to Ken Hobbs on the last night of the B.O.B. Bootcamp. (Published with Carter's permission.)

"Dear Ken, My sincere apologies for writing this now when I know you are preoccupied with closing the Boot Camp, so there is no need for a reply. I couldn't let the sun go down completely, without letting you know how grateful I am that you went out of your way so that I could attend the Band of Brothers Boot Camp. Aside from going to actual Boot Camp and watching my children born, Band of Brothers was the best experience of my life so far. I meant what I said when we talked, and I had to chuckle to myself listening to John Eldridge talk about the poor agreements we make, and I concluded he must've read the four agreements too! I don't want to monopolize your time more than I already have, but allow me to tell you just how much I loved the theme of the whole Boot Camp about Warriors. I was told by an elder once, that I have been preparing to fight a great battle my entire life. Little did I know the enemy was inside myself. When I came home, not coincidentally this manual was on the night table, as I had recently found it in a file. If you have a chance read the first page, (it's about 15 or 20 pages long) & one day I hope to be able to share the rest of it with you. I wrote it for my son when he was going to Israel by himself at the age of 13 to become a man in the Jewish tradition. If you magnify it you'll be able to read the words. And in doing so you will realize why I love the theme of your boot camp so much.

My son and I spent years becoming trained fighters, so that one day we may become great warriors. Thankfully, now, due to your tremendous kindness, combined with God's mercy & grace, we are finally both on the same team, something I have been waiting for for many years. I will let you go for now, my man, but I want you to know I really did feel the presence of the Holy Spirit there just like you said I would, & everywhere on the grounds, and in the people, & that gives me a measure of hope. Now that I know I have a Band of Brothers with whom I can relate tremendously, a place where I feel I fit in, not judged for my wrongdoings, but rather accepted, prayed for and loved unconditionally, I have peace. Your team of leaders is nothing short of outstanding, & they all embody & exemplify clearly, God's work you're all doing there. As Stephen Ambrose noted, ‘they hadn't come to fear. They hadn't come to die. They had come to win.’ And now I can have a front row seat in heaven. I owe you a tremendous debt of gratitude, Ken, and one day I hope to find a way to repay you. In the meantime, I will continue to wage war with the enemy without, as I remember that battles are lost on the field but wars are won from within. And the only thing needed for evil to prosper, is for good men to do nothing. I do love you bro !! "We stand alone together." -Carter

Through Debbie Price sharing Voice of Truth magazine, a life was changed for Christ, a Band of Brothers marches to another victory in Jesus, and new friends bond eternally, as God had purposed from the beginning of creation. 97

WWL Global Connections MEET WENDY ARELIS FROM KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

hat a joy and honour to be asked to share my story of how God divinely connected me with this wonderful group of faith-filled women! In June of this year, a Woman World Leader and contributing author, Tina Gallo, felt a Holy Spirit-nudge to contact me. She had seen an advertisement searching for a narrator for the audio version of my book. After reading some of my story, she was moved by it and wondered if it was too late to apply. Although the position had been filled, Tina felt that I would be a good fit in this group of overcomers and would be sharing her thoughts with Kimberly. Just days later, I was blessed by a lengthy, encouraging phone call with our dear founder, and before I knew it, I was agreeing to be a contributing author for one of the next two books to be published. In addition to that, she booked a date for a podcast interview with me. It aired on August 2nd. Wow! What favour! The love and support I have received in the past few months have been outstanding. I wrote a chapter describing my journey through cancer and divorce, which is published in Embrace The Journey: Your Path To Spiritual Growth. Even though many in Women World Leaders live far apart, the love of God is felt and experienced in countless ways. Praise the Lord for technology! I look forward to reading the daily Facebook posts and emailed devotions. Testimonies shared on the podcasts and our regular zoom calls are inspiring. Interacting with other Christian women authors from different states and countries is such a blessing. You are all my tribe. Your love, prayers, and support are precious.

Words cannot express how special and loved I felt when I received my personally wrapped package in the mail. When my order for the three previously published books from WWL was delayed, Kimberly took it upon herself to lovingly write a sweet postcard note, wrap the books in tissue paper, replace one softcover book with a hardcover copy, and add four Voice of Truth magazines. Now that is dedicated love. The articles, photographs, and artwork in the magazines are fantastic! I am enjoying all the encouraging stories so very much and sharing them with friends. Thank you. My passion is to be an encourager, to teach and lead others to discover their true identity, value, and authority. Prayer and inner healing have become powerful, life-changing ministries. Sharing the victorious ways God has worked in my life brings me so much joy. My story, like many others, is one of overcoming; overcoming the effects of childhood abuse, fear, illness, a difficult marriage, faith challenges, financial woes, and feeling like a failure at everything. The struggles are real, but our God is a good Father, and He loves us unconditionally. Trust Him. He is faithful. Wendy has written her story in a book called The Other Side Of Fear: My Journey Into Perfect Love. Learn more at her website: wwww.veronicalisare.com. Wendy is a retired nurse who worked for over 40 years on the maternity ward. She was married for 27 years and raised two daughters who have three children each. She serves in leadership roles in her church.

A Heartfelt Thank You To our sister & friend, Kayla Follin. She has spent numerous hours laboring in love for our Savior to graphically design this magazine! Her heart of passion, creativity and love exude in everything she does! Thank you Kayla for the beauty you’ve made come alive through these pages! Much love to you!

A special thanks goes to Johana Torres, our translator for Voice of Truth and Women World Leaders. Johana is a faithful Woman World Leader who has supported this ministry with her time, talents, and prayers not only for us all, but graciously for the Hispanic community who is close to her heart. She has a passionate desire to serve God first in all that He calls her to do at home, in the family business, and in ministry. Thank you Johana for being a committed volunteer of your time, we love you.

Our Pure Devotion As a ministry, we hereby dedicate this magazine unto the Lord almighty. He is our rock, our provider, our Savior, and the love of our life. This magazine thanks the Lord for providing all of the women, the finances, and the strength to complete a task such as this. All glory, dominion, and power praise His holy name. We bow down in complete reverence and love to our King of kings.

Praying for you, Daughter of Zion Lifting you up, Sister, before the Lord of Hosts. Asking the Lord to bless you in all of your ways to humble your heart that you may receive the ever-flowing love and mercy of Jesus. Praying His sacrificial care towards you would stir you on to do good works and that His tenderness towards you would allow your full, reverent commitment to Him. Asking for repentance tears, that your trust in Him may increase as you receive every ounce of soul-satisfying grace that He has to pour upon you. Praying living waters would well up in you richly, providing all of your needs with His abounding presence. Asking our Father God to carry you to the fountain of life. Praying you will run this race with His merciful heart, carrying His truth. May His Word fill you in abundance. In the powerful name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Inspirational Writings, Scriptures, and Artistic Expressions of the Radiant Love of Christ. Women World Leaders is on a mission to globally invest in the lives of women as they discover their lifework and purpose within God's design. By developing their God-given abilities and gifts, women are finding the power to serve in God's grace, a unity of fellowship among believers, and the joy of experiencing the exceeding abundance of God's glorious work.

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior, and my hope is in you all day long. PSALM 25:5 (NIV)

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Voice of Truth: 7th Edition, Quarter I, 2022

Articles inside

WWL Global Connections

Voice of Truth Stories

Courage in Action

Tea Time with Tina

Nonna's kNOWledge

Faith Walk: The Physician's Touch

Walk with Me

The Forgotten Fathers

A Call to Men

Living a Holystic Life

Faith and Family

Praise and Worship

A Beautiful Mess

Prayers for the Sons of the King

Musings on the Book of John

Following the Son

Leaving a Godly Legacy

Change Your Story with Kirstin Leigh

Light at the end of the Tunnel

Journey with Jesus: Nuggets from the Gospel of Mark

College Courage

Coffee Chats

Through a Mother's Eyes

Ser Libre

Be Free

Power Points: God at Work Through Women Leaders Yesterday and Today

Holy Hush

Beside Still Waters

A Purposed Creation

Take up the Cross

A Focus on Him

Dear Sister,

Three Strands

A Call to Writers

Reluctant Purpose

Ever Interceding

Writings from the Global Office

De Gracia del Evangelio

Gospel Grace

Carta de la Fundadora

Letter from the Founder