Voice of Truth: 14th Edition, Quarter IV 2023

14th edition

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OUR MISSION A UNIFIED, GLOBAL WOMEN’S MINISTRY EMPOWERING ONE ANOTHER TO FOLLOW CHRIST AND TO LOVE IN ABUNDANCE; CULTIVATING WOMEN WARRIORS IN THEIR PURPOSE

BY HIS PROMISE AND POWER.

Join us!

Visit our website at 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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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.

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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!

womenworldleaders.com/learn-with-us/podcasts/ 2

Letter from the Founder SWEET WOMAN OF GOD, Today is a new day. Have you opened your eyes to ask God what is in store for you today? Today is a day to rejoice and allow God to fill you with fresh ideas and emotions. You are a strong woman of God who exudes internal and external beauty in every way. As His daughter, you will find true inner peace when you look to the God of creation who created you uniquely and wonderfully in His own image.

We each have reason to rejoice on any given day because of who God created us to be in Him. Psalm 118:24 tells us, This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it (NLT).

Walk into your day with purpose. You may have heard this verse many times in your life, but as you go through this day, reading through Voice of Truth, take time to pause and think—what does it mean that TODAY is the day the Lord has made, and what is He calling ME to rejoice and be glad about?

When we think about who God is, what He has done in our lives, and how He created us individually with purpose in mind, we have many reasons to rejoice every day. God woke us up this morning and is moving us in the direction He has prepared for us. Now, let’s consider rejoicing and being glad about that. Our desire at Women World Leaders is that as you read the pages of this publication, you will be inspired to rejoice and be glad about everything God is doing in your life.

As you scan these pages, reading each article, I encourage you to dig deep. Contemplate every scripture with a focused lens—especially those verses you know well and are tempted to skim right over. Pause and hover over God’s divine words, soaking them in. The Word of God inspires and will bring truth to your life and joy to your heart. God has established many things for your life to give you a foundation to move forward with joy, and they will come alive the more you meditate on His love letter written to you.

Every day, God gives us a fresh supply of sunshine for the new day ahead. His mercies are new every day, so is the safety in His arms. Nothing can overtake you unless you allow it to. We can overcome anything because the Lord is on our side. In Him, we are STRONG and BEAUTIFUL and ADORNED in His RADIANCE. May we rejoice in the God who watches over and protects us this very day, giving us His light to guide us.

THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH AND SONG, AND HE HAS BECOME MY SALVATION. (PSALM 118:14 NKJV)

May you focus on the peace only God can provide today.

Dig deep inside the vast creation of your being to find the quiet love God is offering you, resulting in a joy that will blanket you with comfort, security, and love as you go about your day.

Please rejoice today and every day going forward because the God of your salvation will give you victory and overcome anything that may come against you. Even if the worst happens, God promises hope in eternal life because of our salvation. For this reason, when you wake up each day, whether in life or death, you can rejoice and be glad.

We, all the writers and editors for Voice of Truth, are praying for you. We pray that our work for and about God and His love will inspire you to rejoice in everything as you offer Him your thanks and praise.

Exceedingly, Abundantly Beyond,

Kimberly Hobbs Founder, Women World Leaders Ephesians 3:20

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Carta Nuestra Fundadora Dulce Mujer de Dios, Hoy es un nuevo día. ¿Has abierto los ojos para preguntarle a Dios qué te espera hoy? Hoy es un día para regocijarte y permitir que Dios te llene de ideas y emociones frescas.

Eres una mujer de Dios fuerte que destila belleza interna y externa en todos los sentidos. Como Su hija, encontrarás verdadera paz interior cuando mires al Dios de la creación, quien te creó única y maravillosamente a Su propia imagen.

Cada una de nosotras tiene motivos para regocijarnos en un día determinado por quién Dios nos creó para ser en Él.

El Salmo 118:24 nos dice: Este es el día que hizo el Señor. Nos regocijaremos y alegraremos en ello (NTV).

Entra en tu día con un propósito. Es posible que hayas escuchado este versículo muchas veces en tu vida, pero a medida que avanzas en este día, leyendo la Voz de la Verdad (Voice of Truth) tómate un tiempo para hacer una pausa y pensar: ¿qué significa que HOY es el día que el Señor ha hecho ¿Me está llamando para regocijarme y alegrarme?

Cuando pensamos en quién es Dios, qué ha hecho en nuestras vidas y cómo nos creó individualmente con un propósito en mente, tenemos muchas razones para regocijarnos cada día. Dios nos despertó esta mañana y nos está moviendo en la dirección que Él ha preparado para nosotros. Ahora, consideremos regocijarnos y alegrarnos por eso. Nuestro deseo en Women World Leaders es que al leer las páginas de esta publicación, te sientas inspirada a regocijarte y alegrarte por todo lo que Dios está haciendo en tu vida.

Mientras exploras estas páginas y lees cada artículo, te invito a que profundices. Contempla cada pasaje de las Escrituras con una lente enfocada, especialmente aquellos versículos que conoces bien y te sientes tentada a leerlos por encima.

Haz una pausa y pase el cursor sobre las divinas palabras de Dios, absorbiéndolas. La Palabra de Dios inspira y traerá verdad a tu vida y gozo a tu corazón. Dios ha establecido muchas cosas para tu vida para darte una base para seguir adelante con alegría, y cobrarán vida cuanto más medites en la carta de amor que te escribió.

Cada día, Dios nos da una nueva provisión de luz solar para el nuevo día que se avecina. Sus misericordias son nuevas cada día, también lo es la seguridad en Sus brazos. Nada puede alcanzarte a menos que tú lo permitas. Podemos superar cualquier cosa porque el Señor está de nuestro lado. En Él, somos FUERTES y HERMOSAS y ADORNADAS en Su RADIACIÓN. Regocijemos en el Dios que nos cuida y protege este mismo día, dándonos Su luz para guiarnos.

EL SEÑOR ES MI FORTALEZA Y MI CANCIÓN, Y ÉL HA SIDO MI SALVACIÓN. (SALMO 118:14 NVI) Concéntrate en la paz que solo Dios puede brindar hoy.

Profundiza en la vasta creación de tu ser para encontrar el amor silencioso que Dios te ofrece, lo que resulta en un gozo que te cubrirá de consuelo, seguridad y amor a medida que avanzas en tu día.

Por favor regocíjate hoy y todos los días en el futuro porque el Dios de tu salvación te dará la victoria y vencerá todo lo que venga en tu contra. Incluso si sucede lo peor, Dios promete esperanza en la vida eterna gracias a nuestra salvación. Por eso, cuando despiertes cada día, ya sea en vida o en muerte, podrás regocijarte y alegrarte.

Nosotras, todas las escritoras y editores de Voice of Truth, estamos orando por ustedes. Oramos para que nuestro trabajo por y acerca de Dios y Su amor las inspire a regocijarse en todo mientras le ofrecen su agradecimiento y alabanza.

Extremadamente, abundantemente y más allá, Kimberly Hobbs Fundadora, Mujeres Líderes Mundiales Ephesians 3:20

CONTENTS 44

Powerpoints: God at Work Through Women Leaders Yesterday and Today

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The Potter’s Hand

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Through the Eyes of Merci

Voice of Truth Cover Story

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Sons of Kings

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Crowning Lori

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Faith and Family

56

Through a Mother’s Eyes

26

A Beautiful Mess

60

32

Reheated Coffee

66

Kingdom Promise: Abundance, Hope, and a Future

34

Change Your Story

69

Chasing Butterflies Journals

37

El Roi...the God who Sees Me

75

Dear Sister

38

Nonna’s kNOWledge

76

A Focus on Him

41

Ever Interceding

78

Coffee Chats

82

Songs from the Spirit

86

Musings on the Book of John

90

Red Carpet Ready

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Gospel Grace

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Writings from the Global Office

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Biblical Profiles

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Following the Son

TAWANA LOWERY (WITH SPANISH VERSION) WWL STAFF (WITH SPANISH VERSION)

JULIE JENKINS

MICHELE HUGHES DR. JIA CONWAY

DONNA WHARTENBY JESSICA PRUKNER

AMANDA JACKMAN

KIRSTIN LEIGH

LISA HATHAWAY

CAROLYN JOY

DIANA BROWN

LEECY BARNETT

RUSANNE CAROLE

KELLEY RENE

DR. CHIDI KALU

TINA GALLO

DIANE CHEVELDAYOFF

KELLY WILLIAMS HALE

CONNIE VANHORN

DR. JIA CONWAY

LILLIAN CUCUZZA

TINA KADOLPH

SARA SAHM

CONNIE HECKER

DEANN ALAINE (WITH SPANISH VERSION)

96 VOT Stories 104 Global Connections

VOICE OF TRUTH

CREDITS Kimberly Ann Hobbs – VOT Founder & WWL co-CEO Julie T. Jenkins – VOT Lead Editor & WWL co-CEO

WWL Ministry Coordinators

Kelly Williams Hale – Graphic Designer

Kimberly Ann Hobbs – co-CEO

Johana Torres – Spanish Translator Kelley Rene – Editor Lisa Morrison – Editor

Julie T. Jenkins – co-CEO Lisa Hathaway – Business & Finance Diana Brown – Prayer Janet Berrong - Connection Coordinator

Kerri Bridges – Editor

Jessica Morneault – Events

Jo Anne McKinney – Proofreader

Connie Van Horn – Encouragement Ambassador

Shelly Haas – Proofreader Arlene Salas – Giving Acknowledgments

Kelly Williams Hale – Graphic Arts

Good ! g n i n r o M e v a h u o y e p We ho blessed day!

Gospel Grace The Nativity in a New Light B Y TAWA N A L O W E R Y

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he life of Mary and Joseph and their epic journey to Bethlehem has always been a source of profound inspiration. Their transcendent story has captivated millions of hearts and minds for centuries. Yet, against the present-day backdrop of so much global unrest, reflecting on their struggle of that silent night offers even greater inspiration this year.

So much about their moment in history has been romanticized through pictures, stories, carols, and the like. But to only focus on their life in that context trivializes the extreme difficulty endured by an unlikely couple trying to cope with 360-degree uncertainty while adjusting to the demands of a new marriage and a new life.

Without warning, their simple existence was interrupted by complicated chaos and oppression. They had no idea how the future would unfold. There was no beautifully packaged Christmas story to read. No illuminated nativity scene to help make sense of their seemingly dark reality. The life they were hoping for was hijacked by circumstances they did not plan for. Nevertheless, they moved forward. They kept the faith and finished the race.

THOSE WHO CROSS THE FINISH LINE RECEIVE THE CROWN. 7

GOSPEL GRACE

Fast forward to December 2023. Life is once again extremely challenging. Uncertainty abounds at a head-spinning pace. The life many imagined has taken an abrupt U-turn or seems completely out of reach. Sadly, perpetual instability has tempted some believers to lose heart.

Well, maybe this is the Christmas we can secure our joy by casting new light on the life of Mary and Joseph. Maybe this year, we have an opportunity to see their life being similar to our own. As we take time to empathize with their hardship, let’s also consider the timeless anchors that enabled their unwavering determination to fulfill their destiny.

In fact, I believe we can observe three important principles that apply to our lives today.

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ALWAYS REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE AND THE CALL ON YOUR LIFE.

Remembering who you are and the call God has given you is especially crucial during times of rapid change and prolonged struggle. Mary and Joseph received a direct message about their identity and calling before embarking on their assignment. We see the same pattern with Gideon, Abraham, and Yeshua. It is no coincidence that God chooses this approach because He calls us who we are in the kingdom before sending us to advance His kingdom.

When we are grounded in our true identity, it infuses our soul with truth that propels us forward in faith.

Our faith is the fuel that allows us to finish our race.

Kingdom ambassadors are born, gifted, and specifically assigned for times of great challenge. As Rabbi Paul so eloquently reminds us in Ephesians

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2:10, For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them (NKJV).

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SECONDLY, WE MUST REMEMBER GOD’S FAITHFULNESS EACH DAY.

Remembering God’s faithfulness includes reciting scriptures about His provision, presence, unchanging love, and all His promises as our Avinu Malkeinu— our Father and our King! But it also includes remembering the past as we move forward. We must do as King David did as recorded in Psalm 77:11, I will remember the works of the Lord. Surely I will remember your wonders of old (NKJV).

Recalling God’s past provisions, no matter how big or small, empowers us with a victorious mindset and energizes our souls to overcome the present pressure. Remembering the goodness of the Lord was a daily practice for Mary and Joseph, according to the traditions of their faith. Let it be the same in us.

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FINALLY, WE MUST REMEMBER THE ETERNAL GOAL.

When the journey is long and the pressure is on, the temptation to throw in the towel comes to all of us.

But those who endure to the end receive the reward.

Those who cross the finish line receive the crown.

As we are reminded in 2 Corinthians 4:17, our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (NKJV).

is magnificently present in all the details of those commissioned to carry the presence and person of Yeshua, our salvation.

For Mary and Joseph, the person of Jesus gave meaning to their journey. The Word made flesh was with them during every moment. And His glorious appearance was the reward.

Whether around the family dinner table, in the towering corner office, or on the back of a lowly donkey, we all carry the blessed hope as an anchor for our soul. And regardless of the challenge, we can move forward with courage and joy, knowing that He who began a good work in us will carry it to completion unto the big reveal of Christ Jesus!

As it was for Mary and Joseph, we have no clear vision of how the coming days may unfold. Most likely, there will be uncharted waters ahead. Possibly, our faith will be challenged in new and unimaginable ways. Nevertheless, let us embrace the light of that silent night as a reminder of the timeless lessons from an unlikely man and woman who kept their faith in the midst of unprecedented hardship.

In the tempest, in the trial, in the chaos and conflict, the Alpha and Omega is always with us; He is always for us. From everlasting to everlasting, He

Tawana Lowery is an international speaker, women’s leadership coach, author, podcast host, and Executive Director of Miss Overcomer Global. Learn more about Tawana and her ministry at www.MissOvercomer.com or email her at Tawana@MissOvercomer.com FBK@MissOvercomerGlobal Copyrighted by Tawana Lowery and Women World Leaders

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Gracia del

Evangelio LA NATIVIDAD BAJO UNA NUEVA LUZ

POR TAWANA LOWERY

La vida de María y José y su viaje épico a Belén siempre ha sido una fuente de profunda inspiración. Su trascendente historia ha cautivado a millones de corazones y mentes durante siglos.

Sin embargo, en el contexto actual de tanto malestar global, reflexionar sobre su lucha de esa noche silenciosa ofrece aún mayor inspiración este año.

Gran parte de su momento histórico se ha idealizado a través de imágenes,cuentos, villancicos y cosas así. Pero centrarse únicamente en su vida en ese contexto trivializa la extrema dificultad que soporta una pareja improbable que intenta hacer frente a 360-grados de incertidumbre mientras se adapta a las exigencias de un nuevo matrimonio y una nueva vida.

Sin previo aviso, su simple existencia fue interrumpida por un complicado caos y opresión. No tenían idea de cómo se desarrollaría el futuro. No había ninguna historia navideña bellamente empaquetada para leer. No hay un belén iluminado

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PORQUE SOMOS HECHURA SUYA, CREADOS EN CRISTO JESÚS PARA BUENAS OBRAS, LAS CUALES DIOS PREPARÓ DE ANTEMANO PARA QUE ANDUVIÉSEMOS EN ELLAS. (Efesios 2:10 NVI)

que ayude a dar sentido a su aparentemente oscura realidad. La vida que esperaban fue secuestrada por circunstancias que no habían planeado. Sin embargo, siguieron adelante. Mantuvieron la fe y terminaron la carrera.

Avanzando hasta diciembre del 2023. La vida vuelve a ser extremadamente desafiante. La incertidumbre abunda a un ritmo vertiginoso. La vida que muchos imaginaban ha dado un giro abrupto o parece completamente fuera de su alcance.

Lamentablemente, la inestabilidad perpetua ha tentado a algunos creyentes a desanimarse.

Bueno, tal vez esta sea la Navidad en la que podamos asegurar nuestra alegría arrojando nueva luz sobre la vida de María y José.

Quizás este año tengamos la oportunidad de ver que su vida es similar a la nuestra. Mientras nos tomamos el tiempo para sentir empatía por sus dificultades, consideremos también las anclas eternas que permitieron su determinación inquebrantable de cumplir su destino. De hecho, creo que podemos observar tres principios importantes que se aplican a nuestras vidas hoy.

1. Recuerda siempre quién eres y el llamado en tu vida.

Recordar quién eres y el llamado que Dios te ha dado es especialmente crucial en tiempos de cambios rápidos y lucha prolongada. María y José recibieron un mensaje directo sobre su identidad y llamado antes de emprender su tarea. Vemos el mismo patrón con Gedeón, Abraham y Yeshua. No es coincidencia que Dios elija este enfoque porque nos llama tal como somos en el reino antes de enviarnos a hacer avanzar Su reino. Cuando estamos cimentados en nuestra verdadera identidad, ésta infunde en nuestra alma la verdad que nos impulsa hacia adelante en la fe. Nuestra fe es el combustible que nos permite terminar nuestra carrera.

Los embajadores del Reino nacen, tienen talento y son asignados específicamente para tiempos de grandes desafíos. Como nos recuerda tan elocuentemente el rabino Pablo en Efesios 2:10: Porque

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GRACIA DEL EVANGELIO

somos hechura suya, creados en Cristo Jesús para buenas obras, las cuales Dios preparó de antemano para que anduviésemos en ellas (NVI).

2. En segundo lugar, debemos recordar la fidelidad de Dios cada día.

Recordar la fidelidad de Dios incluye recitar Escrituras sobre Su provisión, presencia, amor inmutable y todas Sus promesas como nuestro Avinu Malkeinu: ¡nuestro Padre y nuestro Rey! Pero también incluye recordar el pasado a medida que avanzamos. Debemos hacer como lo hizo el rey David como está registrado en el Salmo 77:11, me acordaré de las obras del Señor.

Seguramente me acordaré de tus maravillas antiguas (NVI).

Recordar las provisiones pasadas de Dios, sin importar cuán grandes o pequeñas sean, nos fortalece con una mentalidad victoriosa y energiza nuestras almas para superar la presión presente. Recordar la bondad del Señor era una práctica diaria para María y José, según las tradiciones de su fe. Que sea lo mismo en nosotros.

2. Finalmente, debemos recordar la meta eterna.

Cuando el camino es largo y la presión aumenta, a todos nos llega la tentación de tirar la toalla. Pero los que perseveran hasta el fin recibirán la recompensa.

Quienes cruzan la línea de meta reciben la corona.

Como se nos recuerda en 2 Corintios 4:17, nuestra leve aflicción, que es sólo por un momento, está produciendo en nosotros un peso de gloria mucho más excelente y eterno (NVI).

Para María y José, la persona de Jesús dio sentido a su camino. El Verbo hecho carne estuvo con ellos en todo momento. Y su gloriosa aparición fue la recompensa.

Como sucedió con María y José, no tenemos una

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visión clara de cómo se desarrollarán los próximos días. Lo más probable es que nos esperen aguas inexploradas. Posiblemente nuestra fe será desafiada de maneras nuevas e inimaginables. Sin embargo, abracemos la luz de esa noche silenciosa como un recordatorio de las lecciones eternas de un hombre y una mujer improbables que mantuvieron su fe en medio de dificultades sin precedentes.

En la tempestad, en la prueba, en el caos y el conflicto, el Alfa y la Omega están siempre con nosotros; Él siempre está para nosotros. Desde la eternidad hasta la eternidad, Él está magníficamente presente en todos los detalles de aquellos comisionados para llevar la presencia y la persona de Yeshua, nuestra salvación.

Ya sea alrededor de la mesa familiar, en la imponente oficina de la esquina o a lomos de un humilde burro, todos llevamos la esperanza como ancla para nuestra alma. Y sin importar el desafío, podemos seguir adelante con valentía y gozo, sabiendo que Aquel que comenzó la buena obra en nosotros la llevará a cabo hasta la gran revelación de Cristo Jesús.

Tawana Lowery es oradora internacional, coach de mujeres líderes, autora, presentadora de podcasts y directora ejecutiva de Miss Overcomer Global. Obtenga más información sobre Tawana y su ministerio en www.MissOvercomer.com o envíele un correo electrónico a Tawana@MissOvercomer.com.

FBK @MissOvercomerGlobal Derechos de autor de Tawana Lowery y Women World Leaders

See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

I S A I A H 43 :19 N I V

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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!

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WRITINGS FROM THE GLOBAL OFFICE

Empowering Lives with Purpose THE STRONG AND BEAUTIFUL WOMAN SHE IS CLOTHED WITH STRENGTH AND DIGNITY, AND SHE LAUGHS WITHOUT FEAR OF THE FUTURE. (PROVERBS 31:25 NLT)

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or a woman of God to be clothed with strength and dignity, she must have high self-esteem. As a God-fearing woman, she should recognize her value in the kingdom of God. A woman of this caliber is not easily manipulated; she knows who she is in Christ and will not quickly fall into the traps of this world.

She values and honors herself, which has nothing to do with her financial status but everything to do with her status as a princess of the one true high King.

For us as women of God, the ability to withstand adversity comes from gaining instruction from the Word of God daily. We need to be able to take on various levels of attack with strength and dignity and move as God provides a way of escape. No matter how often the enemy tries to attack our self-esteem, God will replenish us, calling us virtuous women.

As some women flounder in a sea of distress, bound in shackles of lies, a weakness arises. When any resistance comes to knock them 16

She knows who she is in Christ.

down, they grieve. Pain pushes them away from the presence of God. And then the God-fearing woman that Proverbs 31:25 tells us of disappears.

God never asks us to carry the weight of the world on our own shoulders. He promises to carry it for us. All we have to do is let Him. He is our strength.

God has sorted through your afflictions and offers His companionship through every hardship you encounter. He clothes you in dignity and strength, and He is not finished with you or the situation at hand. Step out of the wailing ways of your mind and dress yourself today with God’s presence, His will, and His powers. As you separate yourself from the anguish the world intends you to carry, God’s dominion in your life will give you the strength and dignity you need to be the woman He has called you to be.

God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the

earth gives way, and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging (Psalm 46:1-3 NIV).

God’s infinite love for you will give you an intimacy with Him far greater than you’ve ever expected, dreamed, or asked for. Allow His endless love to cover and clothe you in His beauty of strength and dignity. You are a gorgeous vessel of extraordinary proportions whom God is pulling together. He is turning you into His greatness, His masterpiece beauty, step by step and day by day, as He empowers your life with HIS purpose.

Kimberly Hobbs Founder, Women World Leaders Ephesians 3:20

You are a gorgeous vessel of extraordinary proportions whom God is pulling together.

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WRITINGS FROM THE GLOBAL OFFICE

BIBLICAL PROFILES THE PROPHET ZECHARIAH

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ith all that is in the news regarding Israel recently, I have been saturating myself with biblical readings about God’s chosen people. It is nearly impossible to seek out scripture pertaining to the future of the Holy Land without landing on the book of Zechariah.

Zechariah was a minor prophet whom God used to minister to the small remnant of Jews who, after their people were exiled to Babylon, had returned to Judah to rebuild both their nation and the temple.

One thing God has highlighted for me as I’ve studied Zechariah is that God truly does ordain His purpose for each of our lives. I know! We say that over and over in this ministry. But let’s take a look at Zechariah and his unlikely calling.

God positioned Zechariah to minister to and encourage those doing the oh-so-important work of rebuilding the temple and the Holy Land. We are the body of Christ, which means we all need to do our part. In Women World Leaders, we have so many people who fill so many roles. Without each person doing what God has ordained, we could not, as a ministry, do what He has called us to do.

Sometimes, our role is surprising—even to us! Although he was young, God gave Zechariah the all-important position of warning the people. This position of warning is one we might expect an elder to hold. But despite his lack of advanced years, Zechariah did the job God created him to do. And he didn’t sugar-coat the hard truth that the people needed to hear: turning away from the Lord had significantly contributed to their ancestors’ persecution. “The Lord was very angry with your ancestors…‘Return to me,’ declares the

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Lord Almighty, ‘and I will return to you,’…Do not be like your ancestors…they would not listen or pay attention to me, declares the Lord” (Zechariah 1:24 NIV).

blessing. Do not be afraid, but let your hands be strong” (Zechariah 8:12-13 NIV).

Through Zechariah, God relayed unimaginable hope. God gave Zechariah visions, and he was obedient in sharing those with the people.

Imagine working manual labor day in and day out rebuilding your city, even as many in Israel are called to today, and hearing the words of God through the mouth of the prophet, ‘Jerusalem will be a city without walls…And I myself will be a wall of fire around it,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will be its glory within’ (Zechariah 2:4-5 NIV). God is the glory of Israel!

FOR HIM AND ALL THAT

As we continue to read through Zechariah, the second overarching lesson I was reminded of from Zechariah’s prophesies is that God is in control, and His protection of Israel and His people is real!

“After the Glorious One has sent me against the nations that have plundered you—for whoever touches you touches the apple of his eye—I will surely raise my hand against them” (Zechariah 2:89 NIV).

“If you will walk in obedience to me and keep my requirements, then you will govern my house and have charge of my courts” (Zechariah 3:7 NIV).

“This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel, ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6 NIV).

“The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit, the ground will produce its crops, and the heavens will drop their dew. I will give all these things as an inheritance to the remnant of this people. Just as you, Judah and Israel, have been a curse among the nations, so I will save you, and you will be a

GOD CALLS US TO STAND HE IS, AS HE HIMSELF STANDS FOR JERUSALEM. “These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other and render true and sound judgment in your courts; do not plot evil against each other, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this,” declares the Lord (Zechariah 8:16-17 NIV).

Gaza will writhe in agony…I will take the blood from their mouths, the forbidden food from between their teeth. Those who are left will belong to our God (Zechariah 9:5, 7 NIV).

Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you righteous and victorious (Zechariah 9:9 NIV).

If you are feeling angst or worry during this time of global upheaval, I want to encourage you to read the book of Zechariah and allow God to speak to you through it. Maybe you, like me, wil l gain comfort and peace as you come to understand more deeply that God has a designated purpose and plan for you in this place and time, He is in control even when this world feels out of control, and His hope for tomorrow is firm and secure.

Julie Jenkins WWL co-CEO julie@womenworldleaders.com

GOD HAS A DESIGNATED PURPOSE AND PLAN FOR YOU IN THIS PLACE AND TIME. 19

Following the Son PHOTO AND WRITING BY MICHELE HUGHES

Hope Did you know National Lighthouse Day is a thing? I didn’t until this year, August 7th. But I like it! Lighthouses have a special place in my heart because my husband proposed to me at Marblehead Lighthouse. If you have ever stood at the top of a lighthouse, you know the view is amazing. And if you aren’t afraid of heights, it’s a great feeling.

With 105 steps, you can climb to the top of a sweeping tower of red brick— the proud lady of Jupiter Inlet—the oldest structure in Palm Beach County. I love this lighthouse. If you are ever in Florida, it’s worth a tour.

The light of a lighthouse can be seen an average of 23 miles away. Anyone caught in a storm on the water or lost at sea will say a lighthouse gives hope.

It can help guide you to safety.

Scripture tells us, let your light shine before others (Matt. 5:16 NIV). By letting our light shine, we can point people in the direction of hope.

NOW MAY THE GOD OF HOPE FILL YOU WITH ALL JOY AND PEACE IN BELIEVING, SO THAT YOU WILL ABOUND IN HOPE

BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. (ROMANS 15:13 NASB)

One night, after tossing and turning, unable to sleep, William Booth got out of bed and went for a walk. He ended up in the poorest section of London and experienced the worst sights and smells of his life. When he arrived home, his wife frantically asked where he’d been. “Catherine,” he replied, “I’ve been to hell. I’ve been to hell.”

Soon afterward, they started the Salvation Army.

Psalm 27:1 says, The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? (NKJV) William and Catherine envisioned people drowning in a sea of hopelessness: slavery, starvation, unemployment, murder, and prostitution. One by one, they created tools like banks, food depots, shelters, and temporary work to help the impoverished. They started to see light at the end of the tunnel as lives were restored. People felt more hopeful. When William and his wife started crusades, held revivals in circus tents, and preached to the masses, they learned the people were equally hungry for the Word.

Maybe you feel like you are drowning and losing hope. Life certainly has its challenges, but if we keep our eyes focused on the light of Jesus Christ, our perspective will change. He will guide us and help us find our way.

Michele Hughes, a #1 best selling author, resides in Jupiter, Florida,with her husband. They own and operate GoLifeSavers.com where Michele has taught CPR classes since 2011 as the lead instructor. Michele holds a master’s degree in education and serves on the leadership team in Women World Leaders. She loves the Son/sun, family, paddle boarding, travel, and encouraging others.

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Leadership Connect JOIN US VIA ZOOM FROM WHEREVER YOU ARE ON THE GLOBE! Meet and connect with women from around the world and find out how you can be a leader wherever you are located. You can use your God-given gifts to help others draw closer to Jesus. We can do it together. Women World Leaders is here to help!

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PRAYERS FOR THE SONS OF A KING Jesus Is Interceding for You! B Y D R . J I A C O N WAY

Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen?

It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one.

Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.

(Romans 8:33-34 NIV)

T

he plans of Satan do not diminish because of your faith. He is not moved by what you believe as God’s son; as a matter of fact, he is waiting for the opportunity to challenge you in your faith and put any charge against God. Satan came into the presence of God to accuse Job of being a faithful servant only because of his materialistic possessions and blessings.

Satan was bold to suggest that it is only “what” God can do for us, over “who” God is to us, that makes us faithful. No matter what, son of the living God, Satan attempts to cause things to rise up against you and stagnate your love and faithfulness toward God, but Jesus is your defense and intercessor.

Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, and He is standing in the gap for every plan, plot, scheme, device, and schism of the enemy. Jesus is the great intercessor who does not and will not back down from the ploy of the enemy to destroy and distract you from the will of God. The case of Satan against

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you has been thrown out! God will never allow Satan to get the glory! Sons of the King, you stand defended!

You have been set free and liberated. Open your mouths and raise your hands in praise and worship unto the most Sovereign God who loves you with His entire being.

Sons of the King, you can rejoice in the victory already claimed for you; it is your birthright as God’s chosen son. Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? God justifies! Who then condemns? No one. Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us! Jesus is STILL INTERCEDING FOR YOU! Don’t give up! Don’t give in! Do not waiver in your faith or your purpose! The blood of Jesus was the price paid to cover the sins of those who belong to Him! Sons of the King, YOU BELONG!

JOIN WOMEN WORLD LEADERS AND TRILIGHT PICTURES TO HELP BRING THIS MOVIE TO LIFE!

They may have been beauty queens, but it’s about to get ugly.

Crowning Lori is a movie for women, by women, about women.

Karen Abercrombie War Room

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Tina Gallo General Hospital

Director: Lisa Arnold God’s Not Dead

Support our movie fund and get your name in the credits!

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Faith and Family

Seeking Him

BY DONNA WHARTENBY

H

ave you ever found yourself endlessly searching for your keys, wallet, or cell phone? You continue to search until the item is found, don’t you? Certain things are worth seeking until you find them. Read on.

Two millennia ago, shepherds were watching their flocks of sheep at night when an angel from God appeared to them announcing the birth of a child named Jesus. The shepherds left their flocks to seek this Holy Child in Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). Soon after, three wise men called Magi came from the East following a bright star seeking to find the prophesied king. Finding Him, they bowed in worship and presented royal gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:1-11).

Three decades later, Nicodemus, a Jewish leader, sought Jesus because He performed miracles from God. Nicodemus wanted the new life Jesus taught of: hope and eternal life through living a life pleasing to Elohim, Mighty God (John 3:1-15). Then there was the wealthy tax collector, short in stature, who climbed a sycamore-fig tree desiring to see Jesus. Jesus called him down from the tree to spend time with him. Zacchaeus, impacted by the words of Jesus, admitted he cheated people out of their money and promised to repay them fourfold. In seeking a life in Jesus, Zacchaeus was immediately freed from his sinful punishment on the day of judgment and received reward in this life and the next life with Yahweh, Almighty God (Luke 19).

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Jairus, a synagogue leader, searched for Jesus in a crowd. Matthew 9:18-25 tells us Jairus believed Jesus could heal his daughter, who had just passed away. When Jesus took the girl’s hand, she got up as He commanded. An ailing woman in the same crowd believed if she could simply touch the hem of Jesus’ garment, she’d be healed from her twelve-year infirmity. Jesus felt her touch and acknowledged her activated faith had prompted her healing. Jesus demonstrated grace and mercy to Jairus and the ill woman because of their strong faith in Him. After Jesus’ death on the cross in Jerusalem, women went to His tomb with spices and ointments to tend to His body.

They loved Him and desired to care for Him even after His death. They were the first to find the empty tomb. Jesus, our Savior and Lord, was resurrected from the dead (Matthew 28:1-10).

These biblical accounts describe individuals seeking Jesus, our Savior and Lord. They came to Him to be rescued from their old lives, uncertainties, dangers, and evil. They came to Him to glorify, honor, and serve Him. They came to find out how to find joy, love, and hope in this life, and find eternal life after death through Jesus’ salvation for His followers. They sought Him with belief and faith in who He was. They sought Jesus Christ, who frees us THEY LOVED HIM AND from eternal punishment by His resurrection, offering DESIRED TO CARE FOR HIM us eternal life.

EVEN AFTER HIS DEATH.

Are you seeking Jesus today? Are you trusting in Him as the resurrected Savior who gives us new life on earth and eternal life without punishment? Do you seek His peace, comfort, and wisdom in times of struggle and hardship?

Are you teaching your children and grandchildren to love, trust, and believe in who Jesus is and what He did in love to rescue us? His love, grace, mercy, and teachings are worth seeking.

If you don’t know Jesus, ask God to reveal Himself to you. Read the book of John to get to know the Savior.

Pray to Him and listen for His response. He desires a relationship with you. Seek Him, and you will find Him.

MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU AND PROTECT YOU. MAY THE LORD MAKE HIS FACE SHINE ON YOU AND BE GRACIOUS TO YOU. MAY THE LORD LOOK WITH FAVOR ON YOU AND GIVE YOU PEACE. AMEN. (NUMBERS 6:24-26 CSB)

Donna grew up in a Christian home and attended weekly church with her family. She and her husband, Keith, have been married for 38 years and together have a son. Donna loves singing, traveling, and spending vacations and holidays with her three grandchildren. She’s passionate about teaching and facilitates ladies’ Bible studies and small groups.

Family is important to her, which is why Donna is delighted to write this Faith and Family column for Voice of Truth magazine.

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A Beautiful Mess

BY JESSICA PRUKNER

Y

ears ago, when we began our homeschooling journey, the purpose was mainly to allow us the freedom to travel. My oldest daughter was enrolled in a private half-day kindergarten, and in that first year, we took her out for a total of five weeks to travel. I offered to take her schoolwork with us and do it on the road, but the school had a meeting and informed us that after two weeks of absences, they would not have the time to pull her schoolwork for us to take, so she would just receive zeros for those assignments missed.

We happily accepted the zeros and traveled to beautiful places like Hawaii and Florida, learning all about the culture and experiencing the food, sights, and animals specific to these wonderful places. After that school year, we decided as a family that we would much rather our kids learn with a “hands-on” approach than have them sitting in classrooms, seeing beautiful places and creatures in textbook photos. So our journey began, and with it came lots of traveling to wonderful places.

The experiences have been memorable and impactful in many ways.

Our experiences were unlike anything a classroom or a book could have ever taught our children. A decade later, the kids still tell me

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their vivid memories of what they saw, experienced, and learned. Learning in person while visiting the sites of history—walking the Battle of Gettysburg fields and seeing places like Pearl Harbor—has allowed them to stack so much more knowledge as they now dive deeper as upper-age learners. It is really rewarding when I see that the choices we made for our family not only created memories but are now being explored deeper and further as our children grow.

made friends with the locals of Costa Rica, and exchanged language lessons with children at meals.

They have been able to see how Washington, D.C. functions, witness Air Force One land, and wave at the president of the United States with a crowd of a dozen people. The experiences have been memorable and impactful in many ways. I tell everyone that my kids have never met a stranger; instead, with each meeting, they learned a lesson or gained a friend.

With each meeting, they learned a lesson or gained a friend.

Although these experiences have been great, in the last two years, we have become more committed to homeschool co-ops and communities as we have learned the value of local, everyday relationships.

My kids are now teenagers, and solid, everyday friendships are vital to their well-being. They strive for deeper connections and especially for relatable relationships with kids their age. An asset in the early years that I never found a necessity is now that which breathes life into my kids on a daily basis. My daughter has a homeschool group chat thread that is ever-growing and constantly needs my permission to add a new friend. My son has learned how to find good guy friends who like to

Along with this great life of travel came the opportunity to meet many wonderful and interesting people. While visiting Pearl Harbor, the kids were able to meet a WWII survivor who lived through the bombings, hear his story, and thank him for his service. They learned about the Polynesian people and culture while in Hawaii,

God gave us wonderful people to surround ourselves with to help us love and direct our kids in the way they should go.

A BEAUTIFUL MESS

play chess, drums, and Legos like he does. My oldest daughter has found the positive peer pressure to help her make wise, God-fearing decisions for her life.

Recently, my oldest daughter had a boy interested in her, to whom she began showing some interest back. Her father and I were not very happy with this situation and let her know that we would not be allowing this relationship to progress. As most teenagers would be, she was unhappy with our pushback; we had a week of hostility in the house as I became overprotective of her whereabouts. I prayed for wisdom, prayed that this boy would move on, and then prayed some more. That Sunday at church, I saw two of her school friends come to talk to her after service. Later that day, she came up to me and said God sent two friends at church and six friends from school via text to all share that they felt like this relationship was a bad idea and she needed to be careful, so she was going to heed their warnings and ask the boy to stop reaching out to her. At that moment, I realized how great God is in all areas of

their lives. God uses people, in this case, her friends from school and church, to speak to her heart in a season when the voices of mom and dad are hard to always agree with and understand.

I also immediately saw the value of having a good, positive community surrounding my kids. I am now convinced there is a blessing in community, which all homeschool families need. We were not meant to do life alone, to parent alone, or to do school alone.

God gave us wonderful people to surround ourselves with to help us love and direct our kids in the way they should go.

If you homeschool, I encourage you to Google, reach out, visit, or start your own community so your kids can experience the many blessings my kids have been enjoying these last few years. As the great Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

We were not meant to do life alone, to parent alone, or to do school alone.

Navigating Your Storm You are about to set sail into a book, a guide, an inspiration that will allow you to navigate through rogue waves and tumultuous waters brought on by the ugly hurricanes of life threatening to spiral you out of control. Reading this book will guide you to a fresh start—a new course that will change the direction of your heart and give you the ability to see the light of God so you can navigate any storm that comes upon you.

In this book, United Men of Honor have stepped up to share with transparency the obstacles they faced, giving you a glimpse of how God works in victorious ways. Through their words and experiences, may your eyes be illuminated to see the storms ahead, and may you be prepared to seek God’s guidance, realizing and admitting that we all need His strength.

Journey with us through the raging waves of life. Allow God to chart your course through the storms. Then, hold tight to your rudder and look toward the light—because with Him, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

GET YOUR COPY TODAY! Available through World Publishing and Productions, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ORDER NOW

worldpublishingandproductions.com

LOVE CARDS

REACH OUT AND SHARE A “LOVE CARD” AND SPREAD THE GOSPEL MESSAGE OF CHRIST TO THE WORLD We invite you to join us as we hand out these beautiful LOVE cards that are the actual size and feel of a credit card. By simply sharing with whomever God places on your heart, you can impact a life for eternity.

While out and about in your day-to-day routine, hand a card to someone on the street and watch them smile. Give one to your waitress at your favorite restaurant with her monetary tip, and she will light up. Share with a friend, a co-worker, or someone you meet as you stand in line or in a waiting room. Women are being blessed everywhere by receiving these lovely cards.

KEEP PLENTY ON HAND SO YOU CAN PASS THEM OUT ANYWHERE AND TO ANYONE GOD PUTS ON YOUR HEART. When you share one, be sure to instruct the recipient to scan the QR code on the back with their phone. When they do, they will be taken to the Women World Leaders landing page and given the opportunity to watch a life-changing 6-minute video provided by our friends, The Heaven Guy Team. Available in six languages, the video shares true love—the gospel message of Jesus Christ.

As a ministry, we can track how many people open the page, watch the video, and check the box proclaiming they have accepted Christ.

We can also contact and disciple anyone who chooses to leave their information in the provided section.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ORDER YOUR LOVE CARDS

OR

Go to womenworldleaders.com, click the “Donate” tab, and designate your gift of $25.00 or more to “WWL LOVE CARDS” via the dropdown menu. We will send you 50 of these lovely cards, and you can begin sharing the gospel message in such a beautiful way, with the love of Jesus Christ boldly proclaimed by each card. This offer is available in the USA and internationally. Try scanning the QR code on the picture of the Love Card above to watch the video in any of the provided six languages now.

Then visit us at womenworldleaders.com to begin your mission of sharing the gospel—one card at a time!

Reheated

Coffee

BY AMANDA JACKMAN

H

ave you seen the new trend? Spotless homes posted on social media and elaborate Pinterestworthy birthday parties. Moms of five children compare themselves to moms of one child. A-type personalities compare themselves to B-type. The comparison game among moms is an all-out attack, making us feel inadequate and convincing us that motherhood is hard.

The weight of motherhood doesn’t come from the backs of our children. It comes from the voices in culture and society telling us how hard it is, essentially implanting negative associations with our children and distracting us from the present beauty of raising children. The world tells me my worth every time I open an app. But I’m not buying it anymore.

Children are a blessing, not a burden.

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Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them (Psalm 127:3-5 NIV).

The children gifted to us as an inheritance from our Father were made perfect in His image, as were we. If we spend our time worrying about how we compare to other moms, who were made and trusted with their own set of children from the Lord, we miss out on what is right in front of us.

The world is loud. The world has opinions, and if I listen too much to what the world thinks, I miss out on what God thinks. And He said it was very good.

He said children are a blessing, not a burden. He said, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28 NIV). He said, Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you (1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV).

Worry, anxiety, comparison, stress, and feeling overwhelmed are all tactics of the enemy. If he can wear down moms with anxiety and make us feel overwhelmed, he will be able to rob us of the joy that motherhood brings. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have

life, and have it to the full (John 10:10 NIV). Let’s seek God for rest and recognize when the enemy is trying to wear us down. Motherhood is a joy and a blessing that sometimes can feel so hard if we let the wrong voices sway us.

Let’s lean into God’s promises in the depths of motherhood. Each new season brings new challenges.

God—not the world—equips us for these challenges.

The world distracts us from them. I don’t ever want to be too distracted that I miss the beauty of the moments and the people in front of me.

Motherhood is a joy and a blessing.

Amanda Jackman is from the small town of Imlay City, Michigan. She and her husband, Brad, have five children under the age of seven (Bradley 7, Juliet 6, Walter 5, Arthur 3, and Arlington 6 months). She has a Paralegal Studies Degree and enjoys reading and writing.

She loves the busy life of being a wife and mother of five.

Chyourange Story

BY KIRSTIN LEIGH

BE A LIGHT—Without Getting Burned

D

o you have a complicated relationship with someone you love? Do you get nervous before get-togethers and holidays just thinking of the “what-ifs”? Maybe you had an absent, abusive, or emotionally unavailable mom or dad. Whether it’s a rebellious child, a competitive sibling, or a friend who is making decisions you don’t agree with, most of us love someone who, at one point or another, is hard to love.

No matter what the situation is, the question remains: How do we brace ourselves in a godly way for the phone conversations, visits, and holidays? How can we be a light—without getting burned?

Before you embark on the tough conversations or the long road trip, here are few things to things to consider.

1. What are your motives? For instance, are you still trying to prove yourself? Is your goal to finally get them to admit they were wrong? Do you want something they are incapable of giving? Prior to “Changing My Story,” I wanted all these things and more!

Our motives change when we fully forgive. But forgiveness is a process. There are many times I thought I had fully forgiven someone. And I had—to the extent that I could. But as we grow and heal, a deeper level of forgiveness is required.

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True forgiveness changes our motives. It changes the way we see people.

2. Ask God to help you see others through His eyes. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12 NLT).

We see who someone has become. God sees the person He created. Ask God for divine wisdom and, when possible, speak to the person God sees.

3. Remember, you are a change agent! Your presence can change the atmosphere. Don’t be led into the lion’s den.

Lead the conversation. Turn it around when needed.

Don’t go down dead-end roads. Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are (Proverbs 26:4 NLT).

4. You have a choice—sedate, medicate, or meditate on God’s Word. When preparing for conversations and visits that may be uncomfortable, do you sedate yourself with alcohol or binge on unhealthy food? Do you selfmedicate? Or do you meditate on God’s Word?

Your answer doesn’t just Change Your Story. It changes others.

5. Dress appropriately. 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 the 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 6:13-18 NIV NIV).

And when it comes to choosing your outfit, remember that love, humility, grace, and kindness always fit and look great!

Ephesians 2:10 says For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (NIV).

There are things in life that we choose. And there are things we absolutely did not and would not choose. Some of these things hurt much more than we ever admit. They have left scars on our hearts.

While scars are a part of our story, they don’t have to hurt anymore. Jesus can heal your deepest wounds.

I promise. He can. But we have to let Him. And we have to work with Him. And when we do…

We can be a light without getting burned. We can be God’s hands and feet. His voice. His vessel. We can leave a legacy of love and changed lives.

After running away from her dreams and battling addictions for over a decade, Kirstin Leigh is now an acclaimed author, speaker, recovery coach, and the founder of The Change Your Story Workshop, a 9 week program that offers a faith based, holistic approach to Breaking Free from what’s breaking you, and Discovering how Purpose is the Key to Breakthrough. For more information or to enroll: www. thechangeyourstoryworkshop.com To find out more about Kirstin: www.Kirstinleigh.com

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“

JESUS CAN HEAL YOUR DEEPEST WOUNDS.

“

CHANGE YOUR STORY

I PROMISE. HE CAN. BUT WE

HAVE TO LET HIM.

EL ROI...THE GOD WHO SEES ME B Y L I S A H AT H AWAY

Grip of Grace

A

s I am constantly in a heart posture of seeking the Lord, I am keenly aware of how the enemy likes to look at what God is doing, ready to attack. Even though he attempts to seek and destroy God’s children, our God is so much stronger and will always conquer evil. When He is holding us, His grip is more excellent than anything else. Walking with Him in confidence and grace is where God wants us. Is that always easy? No, it is not.

We have daily battles with the flesh, especially in our minds. Our thoughts, continually waging war on us, can control a significant part of our lives if we let them.

But God reminds us that no matter what we face, He is so much bigger and is our protector on the journey, even when we struggle.

He knows us, and He will never leave us. A passage of scripture that has been on repeat in my mind and heart is the parable of the lost sheep.

What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish (Matthew 18:12-14 ESV).

These words should give us such hope. The shepherd left the ninety-nine to rescue the one—which is exactly what God does.

God sees and rescues us no matter how far we stray. In fact, when we are seemingly stranded in the valley, God does His best work, gathering us in His arms. I am thankful for the pain in the valley

because out of those trials and tribulations comes wholeness.

And in that wholeness, what we learned and endured in the valley makes God’s love and grace that much sweeter—often leading us to a mountain-top experience. The valley prunes us and allows us to see things in a much different light.

God, my eyes are more open to your small and intricate touches on my life. The words from a stranger, the acts of kindness, and the affirmations that only come from you are more prevalent in my life. You are in all the details of my life. In the valley, there is hurt so deep, but as I climb to the top step by step, following the sound of your voice, the hurt lessens. Your healing hand is constantly on my heart; you never take it off. Your grip holds my hand tighter. I need you with me as I climb the hill. You hold me like a gentle father holds his child; you never let me slip. I grasp you tighter to avoid falling or slipping back into the valley. The grip of your grace and the sweetness of your love fills my deepest wound.

Thank you, Jesus, for the beautiful, complex, treacherous valley. Because of it, I have known you deeper and realized your unconditional love for me. I now recognize that I am WORTH your grip of grace. I am all YOU say I am. I am your beloved, and I am YOUR own. You care for your own; you never leave us or forsake us. The journey is not easy. It is challenging. But you are taking me to a beautiful place where I can always feel the grip of your grace.

Lisa Hathaway resides in Lexington, NC, with her husband, Everett, and their children. As a special needs mom, breast cancer survivor, and survivor of a tragic car accident, suffering has been intertwined in her story, and she yearns for others to experience God’s sweetness through their difficulties. Lisa has an MBA and is pursuing her Clinical and Mental Health Counseling degree. She works at The Oaks Therapeutic Community and is an integral part of the WWL leadership team.

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SINCE THE

NONNA’S kNOWledge

ONE PERSON HAS

Who is Jesus, Really?

HAD THIS MUCH

BEGINNING OF TIME, NOT

INFLUENCE ON B Y C A R O LY N J O Y

H

ow would you describe Jesus? Not physically–as in, with brown hair and dark skin–but WHO is Jesus?

What has Jesus done, and what is He going to do?

Time Magazine1 names Jesus as the most significant figure in history. In their article entitled, “Who’s Biggest? The 100 Most Significant Figures in History”, Jesus tops the list, followed by Napoleon, Muhammed, and William Shakespeare.

In Matthew 16:13-16, Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (ESV).

The Bible describes Jesus as the Son of God. And behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17 ESV).

The Bible also describes Jesus as the mediator between God and man. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5 ESV).

Revelation 4:8 describes Jesus as, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!” (ESV).

From a worldview, there is no doubt or debate that Jesus walked this earth and was a real person. He was not a mythical figure from a movie or book. Everyone—even non-believers—agrees that Jesus was extremely influential.

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THE WORLD.

However, who is this man who is still discussed, and in some cultures and religions revered, over 2000 years after He walked the earth? Since the beginning of time, not one person has had this much influence on the world.

Ponder this, believers and non-believers: Why, on December 25th, does the whole earth stop to celebrate Jesus’ birth?

The world has named this day Christmas, an English term meaning Mass on Christ’s day. Not only do people celebrate this day, they prepare for it months in advance, shopping for presents, planning parties, and creating fabulous foods and decorations. Why? In addition, every year around springtime, the entire world celebrates, or at least is aware of, Easter, which is a remembrance of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of this same man. On Easter, many people go to church, purchase new outfits, visit family and friends, and eat lots of candy. Why? Both days are world-renowned holidays where employees get paid leave, stores close, the stock market stops, people travel, and many spend the day with family and friends. Why? From a Biblical view, Jesus is Immanuel, which means “God with us.”

Jesus is called the Savior. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe (1 Timothy 4:10 ESV).

He is also known as the Redeemer. For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth (Job 19:25 ESV).

Are we teaching our children, grandchildren, and those in our care the precious names of Jesus? Or are we just allowing them to believe He is a good man?

When my children were little, I sang a short song to them at bedtime. If there was one thing I wanted to impress in their memory, it was to know how to call upon the name of Jesus. I wanted them to drift off to sleep with the names and thoughts of Jesus on their minds. Some of the names

of Jesus in the song are Jesus (the name above all names), Beautiful Savior, Glorious Lord, Emmanuel (means God with us), Blessed Redeemer, and Living Word. Singing the names of Jesus over them night after night while they were young helped us all get through some of those trying teenage years.

At this time of year, many people think of Jesus as a cute little baby born in a manger. Others think of Him as a man who told great stories. Many people think of Jesus as the

Nonna’s Chuckle I polled my ten grandchildren: “Who is Jesus?” I thought out of the ten, I’d get at least one chuckle out of their answers to use in my “Nonna’s Chuckles.” However, instead of a chuckle, I received ten theologically correct answers, which in fact made me laugh.

13-year-old: Son of the Creator of the Universe. My Father that I can lean on.

11-year-old: He is our Lord and Christ and Savior. Someone to express my feelings to and someone to talk to and know I am not alone.

11-year-old: He laid down His life for me. He is my protector and my Savior.

10-year-old: Our God 9-year-old: He is my Lord and Savior. He is my protector, my shield, and my defender.

9-year-old: He is our Father. Our refuge. Our salvation. Our life.

8-year-old: Jesus is the Son of God. 6-year-old: Jesus is the Savior. Jesus is the Holy Spirit.

6-year-old: A kind man in heaven.

5-year-old: God. He created this world, and He created us.

NONNA’S KNOWLEDGE

crucified Savior. While all are true, Jesus is much, much more. Jesus is God who came to earth in the flesh, as well as the one and only Son of God. Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, and let’s not forget that He is the soon-coming King.

Hopefully, you are passing down good biblical truths and Bible stories to your children, grandchildren, those in your care, and those you mentor.

While you may be blessed to be able to presently celebrate, know, and understand the TRUE meaning of Christmas and Easter, do you also help those in your care to have a reverent understanding of the awesomeness of Jesus?

Jesus, the Messiah, was born as a baby. Jesus, the crucified Savior, died for the forgiveness of our sins. Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, is sitting at the right hand of God as we anxiously anticipate His soon return.

Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself.

He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:11-16 ESV).

This is the Jesus I want to know. And this is the Jesus I want to teach my loved ones about, encouraging them to look to the heavens with great expectations for His soon return.

Skiena, Steven and Ward, Charles B. “Who’s Biggest? The 100 Most Significant Figures in History: A data-driven ranking. Plus, have former TIME People of the Year been predictive?”

Time Magazine. Dec 10, 2013.

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Carolyn Joy is a Southwest Florida Real Estate Agent, mother of three married children and Nonna to eleven grandchildren. She serves in her church and helps lead a women’s Bible study in her community. She’s the author of two devotional journals, The Overflow of the Heart and Let Your Heart Overflow with Joy, which encourage scripture memorization and writing prayers. Her novel, Out of the Grey Zone, demonstrates God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness, and unconditional love.

Ever

Interceding PRAYER AND SUFFERING

BY DIANA BROWN

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o you ever find yourself trying to pray with tears flowing from your eyes and no words coming out of your mouth? I recently found myself in this place.

My pastor and his wife desire to start a family. Having endured two miscarriages, they recently received a positive result on a pregnancy test, so the church elders and their wives met at the pastor’s home to pray for and anoint the young couple with oil.

Remembering the faith of the woman with the blood disease, each person praying received a tzitzit.

FOR SHE SAID TO HERSELF, “IF I ONLY TOUCH HIS GARMENT, I WILL BE MADE WELL.” (MATTHEW 9:21 ESV)

We all walked away from that prayer gathering with such peace that this would be a healthy pregnancy.

This was it! This baby was going to be!

The couple was meeting with the doctor the following morning to check the baby’s progress and development. At 8:30 a.m., they sent the group a picture of themselves holding the tzitzit, and we all continued praying along with them.

Time passed; it got later in the morning, but there was no word. I kept looking at the clock.

Then, at 10:31 a.m., the following text came from our pastor: “We didn’t get the news we were hoping for this morning. It’s looking like an ectopic pregnancy.

The ultrasound clearly showed there was nothing in the uterus, and there’s a possible gestational sack by the left ovary. We’re waiting to hear the results of bloodwork taken this morning to confirm, then we’ll decide on next steps, one of which could be surgery tomorrow.

We’re both obviously disappointed, but overall, are doing fine. We appreciate your prayers through this whole process and your continued prayers as we figure out what’s next.”

Immediately it felt as if we were sucker punched.

Tears began to flow; we were sick to our stomachs.

God had a different plan.

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EVER INTERCEDING

IN OUR EVER INTERCEDING, WE RECEIVE PEACE IN THE MIDST OF OUR SUFFERINGS.

Many other situations were also surrounding me at this time: two sisters were battling ovarian cancer while their mom was struggling with her own health issues; a friend had suffered a heart attack on Father’s Day and, as I write this, is still fighting for his life after spending ten weeks in the hospital; and another friend has a cyst on her brain that is causing health issues. The list continues.

Many of my family and friends are dealing with incredible needs and concerns. Times like this can leave us feeling sad, discouraged, and even defeated.

BUT GOD is the lifter of our head.

But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head (Psalm 3:3 ESV).

In our ever interceding, we receive peace in the midst of our sufferings. n

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV).

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There is purpose in the suffering.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my

Always in life, but maybe especially when it feels like we are attacked from all angles, God is there, calling us to meditate on His Word and, as we do, showing us His love.

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God uses our pain for His glory.

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 ESV).

I have a friend who refers to this verse, saying, “And WE KNOW.” No matter what we are called to endure, we can always say, “And we know!”

As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today (Genesis 50:20 ESV).

EVEN IN OUR PAIN, GOD TEACHES US HIS WAY.

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weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ESV).

Paul had begged the Lord to remove the thorn in his flesh three times, but the Lord didn’t remove it because, in his weakness, Christ was made strong.

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Even in our pain, God teaches us His way.

”Now therefore, if I have found favor in your sight, please show me now your ways, that I may know you in order to find favor in your sight. Consider too that this nation is your people” (Exodus 33:13 ESV).

Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV).

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Despite the pain, we can experience joy. May we, like James, say:

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4 ESV).

In conclusion, let us always remember, God is: … still God

… still working it out for my good

… still good

… still on the throne

… still teaching me

… still faithful

… still in control

… still trustworthy

The list goes on!

Prayer in our sufferings aligns us with a God who cares and knows; this is why we can be ever interceding to an all-knowing God in the midst of our pain and suffering…HE KNOWS!

Share with us how God has used a difficult situation in your life. How did you pray? What verse or verses ministered to you in that season? Send an email to Diana@womenworldleaders.com We love hearing your God stories!

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POWER POINTS: GOD AT WORK THROUGH WOMEN LEADERS YESTERDAY AND TODAY

BY LEECY BARNETT

Jackie Odhiambo WE HAVE BECOME FATHERLESS, OUR MOTHERS ARE WIDOWS. (Lamentations 5:3 NIV)

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his lament became Jackie Odhiambo’s reality at age 11 when her father died. Growing up with a widowed mother, widowed grandmother, and widowed aunt shaped the whole trajectory of Jackie’s life. Life in a rural village outside Kisumu, Kenya, is a struggle for many, but when a woman is raising her children on her own, her troubles are multiplied 100-fold. For example, the family’s funds were so tight that Jackie had to delay entering high school because her mother labored to come up with the 50 dollars for the required fees. Food insecurity was a daily experience: the Odhiambos usually had one meal a day, and Jackie sometimes got 10 cents to buy a snack at lunchtime.

On top of this, Jackie could see how her mother’s grief weighed on her, but she refused to burden her children with her sadness.

Faith was the one constant that Jackie’s mom and grandmother counted on. Jackie attended church regularly and, as a teenager, began to understand who Jesus was and what He had done for her. God was looking out for Jackie when He connected

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her to The Zawadi Africa Education Fund, a program designed to provide scholarships to academically gifted girls from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education. With Zawadi’s help, Jackie was awarded a full scholarship to Williams College in the USA. (Williams even paid for a trip back home to Kenya annually for Jackie!)

At Williams, Jackie’s faith became truly alive through the college Christian fellowship. Jackie loved being a part of the worship team and made lifelong friends with believing students. As a part of her pre-med training, Jackie did an internship shadowing doctors in a Kenyan hospital. This experience shifted her pathway from surgery to public health. When she returned to Williams, she realized that because of her education, her future was secure. No longer hungry, she had hundreds of foods to choose from. But she remembered that children in her village and thousands like it have no such opportunities.

Her group of college friends helped start the first school in Jackie’s village. They also helped to drill a community well that serves over 3000 households and the school.

Through working on these projects, Jackie learned about the dire situation of widows throughout Kenya. Many Kenyan widows inherit debt, not wealth, from their deceased husbands! In some cultures, everything a man has at his death reverts to his family of origin, so his brothers will come and take the land to farm for themselves.

Usually, the widow and her children can stay in the house, but it is not unheard of for the husband’s family to reclaim the house and leave the widow homeless. It is often assumed, based on no evidence whatsoever, that the wife, in some mysterious way, caused the death of her husband. Remarriage is out of the question because if the widow remarries outside her husband’s family, her children could be taken away; they belong to the family, not to the woman. Often, the widows’ voices are unheard in their community; no one takes their ideas seriously.

After receiving her master’s degree in public health and working in that field for several years, Jackie returned to Kisumu, Kenya, to begin Nyanam International, a ministry to widows. In their local language, “Nyanam” means “daughter of the lake” and is used as a term of endearment for women from the Lake Victoria region. Experiencing the truth that Father to the fatherless, defender of widows—this is God, whose dwelling is holy. (Psalm 68:5 NLT), Jackie chose this name so widows would know that they are loved and that God is on their side.

After its beginning in 2019, 560 widows became connected to Nyanam by the end of 2022. Perhaps this rapid growth can be attributed to the fact that the Nyanam loves and respects widows and treats them as leaders. Another factor is their focus on God; they have centralized the Word of God in their meetings. For example, they are spending all of 2023 studying the story of the widow who, with the help of Elisha, was able to pay off her debts (2 Kings 4:1-7). Future ministry plans include having a public health physician available to meet the widows’ health needs, a community center as a gathering place for widows and their children, and expanding Nyanam throughout Kenya and, eventually, into the rest of Africa.

Jackie’s life and ministry remind us that religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress (James 1:27 NIV).

To find out more about Nyanam see www.nyanam.org or contact them at info@nyanam.org 45

The Potter’s Hand

BY RUSANNE CAROLE

I cannot feel anymore I cannot understand what is going on I cannot go on like this, Lord Doing it all on my own Even surrounded by people, yet lonely I need You What is happening, God? In this world or in this life?

I cannot do it by myself This I now know I attempted to do things on my own And the outcome was not good Surrender Let go Become pliable in Your Hands Your Hands Powerful and Purposeful Strong, yet soft Caressing and Caring Directional and Developing You knew before You placed me on Your Potter’s wheel exactly the divine design You had in mind and planned even before I entered my mother’s womb 46

It takes my surrender to You Regardless of circumstances Regardless of mistakes Regardless of delays and starting over Regardless of trials and tears You are the Potter I am the clay You are the Potter I am Your poetry Designed by the Designer of all things Loved by the Lover of my soul Even through the fire and flames of this life As the heat of the kiln produces the masterpiece The Master is in control Of the watertight container of the fruits of the Spirit I desire to live by To do the work You have planned for me Until we are face-to-face And You smile and say Welcome home, good and faithful daughter I love The Potter’s Hands will now hold you Now and for eternity

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THROUGH THE EYES OF MERCI Turn the Other Cheek

BY KELLEY RENE

Women World Leaders presents “Through the Eyes of Merci,” written by award-winning author Kelley Rene. Kelley writes contemporary fiction to illustrate biblical truths in the mundane, the exhilarating, and even the stormy circumstances of life.

“Through the Eyes of Merci” follows the fictional character, Merci Rivers, Merci Rivers, as she navigates the challenges of university life. In the last issue, Merci embraced an opportunity to stand firm in her convictions. She believes she did the right thing but wonders if it ever gets easier. Daily struggles take their toll, and she’s learning she must lean into her faith and turn the other cheek when persecuted in order to keep her heart aligned with Christ.

ALWAYS BE HUMBLE AND GENTLE. BE PATIENT WITH EACH OTHER, MAKING ALLOWANCE FOR EACH OTHER’S FAULTS BECAUSE OF YOUR LOVE. (EPHESIANS 4:2 NLT) 50

“I

t was so good to see you today, Karis. I’ve missed you so much.” Merci unbuckles her seat belt and grabs her bag from the floorboard. They’d shared so many fun memories in Bible Study and on campus before Karis graduated. “Just when I think the year’s off to a great start, I have to tell my roommate I won’t buy her beer. It killed our cool apartment vibe.”

“I know it was hard, but you did the right thing.”

Karis leans into a hug, “I’ll be praying for your interview tomorrow.”

“Pray that I find my driver’s license too.” Merci hops from the passenger front seat and shouts over the idling engine as she crosses in front of the vehicle, “Me and Jesus. We got this!” She laughs and tosses a kiss to her old friend before taking the stairs two at a time. The air is frigid. Fortunately, Christmas vacation is just a week away.

Students stand in groups of two and three as Merci

makes her way along the corridor. Bottles and cans overflow the stainless steel trash can she’d bought the first day she arrived on campus, now acting as a doorstop to hold open the front door to their apartment. The twang of an electric guitar cuts through the dozen or so voices cluttering the living room.

Merci squeezes her way through a triangle of girls laughing at a joke told by a guy balancing on a side chair. His arms poise to slam dunk a beer bottle raised toward the ceiling.

“Is that Merci?” Clive, her neighbor with the magnetic eyes, yells from the sofa, causing her to go into fight or flight mode. His arm drapes over Baxter’s shoulders.

Merci hadn’t seen her roommate, Baxter, in weeks.

Fury flares in the pit of her stomach as Baxter casually tosses her legs across Clive’s lap and leans into his chest. “Merci, you’re home.”

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THROUGH THE EYES OF MERCI

“Hang out with us.” Clive pats the open spot beside him, taking Merci back to the night in his bedroom.

“Baxter, I have an interview tomorrow.” Merci raises her voice above the chaos.

“Quiet everyone! Merci needs her beauty rest.” A sneer stretches across Clive’s face. He’s toying with her, and Merci wants no part of it.

The amateur comedian atop the chair sends a beer bottle into the crowd like a hot potato rounding the room. His eager audience moans and groans as they work to keep the glass in the air.

“By the way, thanks for the brewskis!” Baxter holds an aluminum can upward and taunts Merci with a conniving smile. “I found your driver’s license. It’s on the refrigerator.”

“You should go to the hospital.”

Belinda is clearly concerned.

Merci presses through a mob of bodies toward the kitchen. Her ID now hangs where Baxter’s note once had. The note requesting Merci to buy beer for her underage roommates. The note with which Merci refused to comply, branding her a party pooper. She swings around. “You stole my ID?” The game of hot potato dissipates as the partiers instantly clear a path for her accusation. The

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forgotten beer bottle drops with a whack solidly on Merci’s nose.

Warm blood oozes into her hands, which are now shielding her face. Tears flush her eyes.

Groans and apologies posit into the confusion. A hand on her arm leads Merci down the hall, through her bedroom, and into the bathroom. “Hold this to your nose.”

Merci hadn’t seen Belinda since the first day they met, but she easily accepts the proffered clump of tissue. Muffled music and distant laughter indicate Merci’s already been forgotten. Contempt festers in her mind. How could Baxter steal her ID? Merci winces in the mirror at the swollen deformity on her face. Bruises seep into the pockets around her eyes.

“You should go to the hospital.” Belinda is clearly concerned.

“I can’t. I have an interview tomorrow.” Shock and horror grip her. “HAD an interview. I can’t go like this.” A jagged cut reaching below her left eye burns as fresh tears trickle down her face. Belinda is right. Without medical care, she might be left with permanent scarring or worse.

God, I’m so angry. How could she do this? It’s going to cost me the internship I need to graduate.

IF WE PERSEVERE IN GRACE AND PRAYER, OUR HEARTS WILL SOFTEN AND ALIGN WITH HIS. Ever have circumstances—or a person—turn against you? Merci did nothing wrong but must now face undue consequences. It seems so unfair.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches the concept of turning the other cheek. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for an eye, and tooth for tooth.’

But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you” (Matthew 5:38-42 NIV).

change the hearts of those around us.

Are you tangled in a web of anger and unforgiveness?

Are you holding onto an offense that God is telling you to release? Give it to Him and trust that He can turn even the worst of circumstances into a blessing.

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love (Ephesians 4:2 NLT).

Merci must now choose—be angry at those who mistreat her or forgive and allow God to determine the outcome. Letting go of offenses and praying for those who have offended us are two great indicators we’ve turned the other cheek.

Jesus goes on to admonish us to love our neighbors AND our enemies. This is quite the foreign concept in society, and yet that is what the Bible instructs us to do. Jesus modeled this for us throughout the New Testament.

God can turn even the worst of circumstances into a blessing.

Won’t we appear weak? Maybe. But in due time, if we persevere in grace and prayer, our hearts will soften and align with His. We may also see God

Join us next quarter to see if Merci can turn a broken nose and missed interview into an opportunity to give God glory.

Kelley Rene is the co-visionary author of the international best-seller Miracle Mindset: Finding Hope In the Chaos. She desires to be a conduit of God’s love and forgiveness and is often inspired by new people she meets on her travels. When she’s not scribbling insightful stories, you’ll find her crocheting, kayaking, enjoying the beach, or cuddling a good book and cappuccino. Keep up with her at kelleyrene.com or on socials @imkelleyrene.

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VOICE OF TRUTH COVER STORY

Valerie Aihe Perkins: A Woman on a Mission to Inspire

BY DR. CHIDI KALU

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n a world often marked by turbulence and uncertainty, some individuals shine brightly, reminding us of the power of faith, determination, and service. Valerie Aihe Perkins is one such person. She is a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing her. Her journey is a testament to the incredible impact one can make when fueled by a deep connection with the Lord and a heart overflowing with love.

A Picture Worth a Thousand Words: Nature’s Canvas with God The cover photo of Valerie surrounded by lush green plants and vibrant leaves reflects the profound connection she shares with God’s creation. To me, as her mother, it encapsulates my daughter’s essence— her unwavering faith, her deep love for nature, and her vibrant spirit. Just as the leaves flourish under the nurturing hand of God, so does Valerie thrive in her relationship with the Lord, basking in His love and grace.

Leading with Faith at Deeper Fellowship Valerie’s journey with the Lord led her to Deeper Fellowship Church in Orlando, Florida, where she not only worships but also leads prayers. Her leadership at Pastor William McDowell’s church is a testament to her commitment to spiritual growth and her dedication to nurturing the faith of others. Valerie’s presence is a source of strength for the congregation, a reminder that faith can move mountains.

A Multifaceted Talent: Writing, Counseling, and Education Valerie’s talents extend far beyond the church. With a master’s degree in creative writing, she contributes to inspirational magazines and has authored her own journals, available on Amazon. Her column, “Honestly She Writes,” serves as a platform to share the love of Jesus and inspire others.

Her passion for education is evident through her second master’s degree in clinical counseling and mental health. Not content with just two master’s degrees, Valerie embarked on her Ph.D. journey in October 2023, driven by a vision to empower women worldwide. Her goal is clear: to help women recognize their self-worth, understand their identity in Christ, and unleash their full potential as children of God.

A Creative Force with a Heart of Gold Valerie’s creativity knows no bounds. Whether adorning church walls with stunning murals or helping a new mother organize her closet, she infuses every task with love and grace. Her creativity isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a means of expressing her love for God and her desire to create lasting, impactful experiences.

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I PRAISE YOU, FOR I AM FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE. (PSALM 139:14 NIV)

An Inspiration in Action Valerie’s journey is a living testament to Psalm 139:14, I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made (NIV). Her life is a symphony of faith, creativity, and service—a melody that resonates in the hearts of everyone she touches. She is a counselor, an author, an artist, and above all, a woman deeply connected to God’s purpose.

Valerie Aihe Perkins is more than a cover story; she is a living example of what it means to walk in the light of the Lord, use one’s talents for His glory, and impact lives in profound ways. Her mother and all who know her are blessed to witness the incredible journey of a woman on a mission to make the world brighter through faith, love, and service.

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Crowning Lori B Y S H E L LY PA I N O

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ou know you are working in God’s will when He pushes you to use your gifting, gives you a project that will point people to Him, and surrounds you with a sisterhood of women chomping at the bit to serve Him. That is the overarching picture of the team God has fashioned to create the film Crowning Lori.

Sit with this group of women long enough, and it becomes evident how much they’ve learned from each other since God brought them together.

Their backgrounds are vastly different. Actress Candace recharges by hiking to waterfalls or praying in her closet, wallpapered with prayer

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COLLABORATION IS A GIFT. WE NEED ENCOURAGEMENT TO STAY IN THE RACE WHEN WEARY. requests. Tina, also an actress, is as likely to tell stories about Frank Sinatra as she would her beloved pups or beautiful quarter horse, Journey Boy. Editor and filmmaker Holly names among her most recent ventures film projects dear to her heart and a ranch house she and her husband built while living in a cramped travel trailer. Producer and photographer Christine can often be found traipsing to far-flung parts of the country with her two young adult actor kids. And Shelly traded her number-crunching day job and commute to sit with her laptop in her backyard typing screenplays.

As varied as their backgrounds are, they all have two things in common: a love for God and a love for film.

In the latter, there seemed to be a glaring problem.

“We were actually all brought together by Candace,” recalls Holly, speaking of a time when the actress and her fellow thespian Tina noticed the abundance of film roles for ruthless female characters. Characters who would stop at nothing to get ahead, berate men, and attack one another. Roles they were turning down as they didn’t ring true to the core value in their hearts, which is to equip women to use their gifts for God’s kingdom.

So they came together, forming the genesis of a new goal: to create a production company and feature film about women lifting each other up rather than tearing each other down. They would call their endeavor TriLight Pictures.

From several story ideas, Crowning Lori emerged.

This is the story of a once teen pageant queen whose bitterness over having lost the big pageant decades earlier, along with her obsession about what could have been, clouds her view of all she is blessed with and nearly causes her to lose everything. Finding

herself in competition with her former teen rival, God reaches her heart, showing her who she truly is as she finds peace. The tale pokes fun at jealousy and discontentment (and their new fake friend, social media) in a humorous, true-to-life, and heartwarming way, intending to point women to the source of their true worth.

BY PRAYING TOGETHER, THAT SPIRIT OF CONFUSION CAN’T GET IN. Ironically, the ladies on a mission to create Crowning Lori found themselves challenged to walk out the same message they set out to portray on film—that of lifting one another up. Soon after the script was finalized, Tina became hospitalized with a lifethreatening illness. Her friends immediately came together to pray. After agonizing weeks, Tina began to recover and emerge from the fog. Logging back online, she was amazed at the many well wishes huge

CROWNING LORI

and powerful and that we had a missing piece; we were asking each other to pray individually about this project, but we weren’t coming together in prayer. People see the manifestation of what prayer does. Without it, we can drift and get separated, allowing the enemy the opportunity to create confusion. By praying together, that spirit of confusion can’t get in.”

It reminds Candace of the story of Moses and the Amalekites from Exodus, Chapter 17: “In order to overcome the trials and obstacles of this world, we need Aarons and Hurs in our lives to hold our arms up. We need to fix our eyes on God and link arms together if we are to run this race with a victory.”

So, using conference calls and Zoom, the ladies, separated by thousands of miles and three different time zones, began meeting weekly to pray. Finding a time that worked for everyone resulted in calls sometimes before the sun came up, often without makeup, in curlers, and in cars—between errands,

on the road, and sometimes with the entire family in tow. The practice requires dedication but has been a solid foundation as the years progressed.

Yep. Years.

“Several times I’ve marveled at how much work this is, but we do not run this race alone.” Candace asserted, reflecting on the fact that what they thought would be a short endeavor proved to be a more lengthy undertaking than they realized. “We do need each other,” she adds. “Collaboration is a gift. We need encouragement to stay in the race when weary.”

“These incredibly talented women have become like family to me,” confides Holly of their progress despite inevitable difficulties. “We share everything in our lives as we pray together weekly. I’m constantly blown away by the kindness, sincerity, talent, tenacity, and beautiful hearts of these women, but our strongest bond is our faith in Christ Jesus.”

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Along the way, the group has reached out to other like-minded women to partner with them. They started with renowned director Lisa Arnold, who already had professional relationships with some on the team, relationships that have become more personal as she’s joined them in prayer when able. Then, in a lightbulb moment, Tina, who had contributed to Voice of Truth, thought to reach out to co-CEOs Kimberly Hobbs and Julie Jenkins. The alliance seemed like a no-brainer. “It was natural to partner with them,” recalls Shelly of the rare unanimous decision by the group. At each step along the way, Kimberly and Julie prayed and sought God’s guidance, reminding Tina of one of her favorite Bible verses, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).

In a natural progression, the team now seeks to welcome their future viewers into the process. This film about women and by women is now coming together with women to help bring it to life. Giving levels and perks can be found on the website CrowningLoriMovie.com—donations toward the creation of the feature film will also support Women World Leaders’ mission.

Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Ephesians 3:20 NKJV).

WE NEED TO FIX OUR EYES ON GOD AND LINK ARMS TOGETHER IF WE ARE TO RUN THIS RACE WITH A VICTORY.

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Through a

s ’ r e h t o M s e y E

Going Deep

B Y D I A N E C H E V E L D AY O F F

A

s I watched two of our adult girls prepare their gear to go snorkeling, or some call it free diving, in the Pacific Ocean, the questions started flooding my mind. My eyes scanned the surroundings and then intensely focused on the building waves as they violently crashed on the rocks and the surf. My thoughts escalated along with my concerns for my children’s safety. One adult daughter is more experienced in the sport than the other, but both are healthy and strong swimmers. Yet my thoughts were captured by the unknowns. The strength of the current, the presence of sharks, and the possibility they would become disoriented or separated, along with other unpredictable attributes and elements of the ocean, caused my thoughts and emotions to reel.

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GOD LONGS FOR US TO SOAK IN HIS CREATION, RECOGNIZE AND APPRECIATE EVEN THE SMALL THINGS OF LIFE, AND STAY CLOSE TO THE ONE WHO CAN KEEP US SAFE.

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Would the experienced one push the other beyond her limits?

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Would they stay together and be aware of each other and their surroundings?

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Could they accept and admit their limits, choosing safety even if it would appear as weak?

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Would they recognize if their energy were to get depleted and turn back if necessary?

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Would they see the true beauty and enjoy the memories of this experience together, regardless of circumstances?

As these questions rushed upon me, I realized that they apply to many aspects of life and can be a concern at any age in any circumstance.

Let’s look at these same questions with different surroundings or angles as they apply to believers and follow through with some thoughts that follow the Bible’s teachings: n

Will the experienced believer draw a new believer closer to God or push them away? We need to help mentor new believers without making them feel inadequate. There is a fine line between gently guiding someone and overwhelming them with the need to measure up.

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Are we aware of our surroundings? We should always hold ourselves accountable for the example we portray to others by what we do, what we say, and even the places we go. n

Do we hold firm to our convictions and truth, not allowing this world to pull us beyond our limits? God calls us to hold to His teachings and not embrace the things of this world—those things not of God or honoring to Him.

n

Are we so busy that we don’t take time to rest in God’s presence? He wants to be in our presence, speak to us, guide our decisions, and influence our future.

But it can be tempting to turn to Him only when we are depleted and need Him to fill us.

n

Do we really appreciate all that is around us? God longs for us to soak in His creation, recognize and appreciate even the small things of life, and stay close to the One who can keep us safe.

We never outgrow being tempted by our peers. This world will continue to influence our lives and our choices. Therefore, it’s important that we do life with

IT’S IMPORTANT THAT WE DO LIFE WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE WHO WILL LIFT US UP AND BRING US CLOSER TO GOD. 61

THROUGH A MOTHER’S EYES

like-minded people who will lift us up and bring us closer to God. In the article, “A Focus on Him—Whoo Do You Associate With?” (published in the 13th edition of Voice of Truth), Lillian Cucuzza shared the story of an owl who had a fatal encounter due to ingesting something toxic. Then she asked the question: Do we put ourselves in a toxic environment? How often do you and I allow ourselves to be influenced by toxic relationships or surroundings? (If you didn’t get a chance to read her article, be sure to go back and do so. I highly recommend it. You can view the digital version at womenworldleaders.com) It’s easy to compromise with comfort, being pulled down or keeping the status quo. But God wants to lift us to a higher level by continually drawing us closer to Him. A daily prayer we’ve had for our girls is, “God, please surround them with godly friends who will draw them closer to You!” I used to petition Him to send a godly friend, but then God reminded me it takes an army, so I started asking Him to surround them with godly friends.

There is quite a difference between these two prayers.

We need to be specific. Regardless of our age or spiritual maturity, we should pray this for our children and ourselves. It only takes one person, event, or season to pull our attention away from our heavenly Father, blurring our focus and allowing a slow fade into worldly views and desires.

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THOSE WHO WANT TO DRAW YOU TO A DEEPER RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST.

The old saying is you are who you hang with. Our girls are realizing how true this is. Who do you go deeper in life with? We all need mentors to hold us up and to whom we can be accountable. At times, we all need others to help us hold to healthy boundaries. And we

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Photography by Angelina Venturella

especially need to have others to turn to for answers and for refreshing. Soak in these scriptures and really make it a priority to hang with the right people who truly care. Surround yourself with those who want to draw you to a deeper relationship with Christ.

Proverbs has several reminders: Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy (Proverbs 27:6 NLT). Stating it slightly differently is: The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense (Proverbs 27:9 NLT). May we all be that kind of friend. As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend (Proverbs 27:17 NLT). These certainly lay the foundation.

THE HEARTFELT COUNSEL OF A FRIEND IS AS SWEET AS PERFUME AND INCENSE. (PROVERBS 27:9 NLT)

We all need to be careful with the waves of the world threatening to beat us down. It’s easy for life’s issues to stir the waters around us, making it murky and difficult to see clearly. Outside influences that say you are weak and make you insecure in your decisions are abundant. God’s Word will lift you up, help you see clearly, and strengthen you. We must ask God to surround us with the right people and give us wisdom to make the right decisions. He will keep you strong as you navigate the turbulent waters of life.

There are friends who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24 NLT).

Diane has 40+ years in the hospitality industry—planning, contracting, and executing meetings and events worldwide. She and her husband Les, married over 31 years, have three beautiful adult girls. She supports his pastoral role, and as AACC-certified coaches, they enjoy helping others have healthy relationships. Contact Diane at Diane@ ExecutiveDiamond.com (www.ExecutiveDiamond.com)

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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 in a harvest through Voice of Truth, which is available for free digitally and in the printed version to our donors. The Lord is our provider, and as this magazine grows daily, we invite you to help us bring in the harvest.

Your partnership with us in prayer and giving is a seed blossoming in the hearts of women around the globe. As you give, we are praying and trusting that the Lord will bless you and meet your needs according to His riches in glory.

Give on our website at womenworldleaders.com or scan the QR code to donate now.

We praise the Lord for you and thank you for your obedience and generosity.

OR MAIL A CHECK TO: Women World Leaders PO Box 210895 • Royal Palm Beach, FL 33421 (Check payable to Women World Leaders) Women World Leaders is a registered 501(c)3 non profit. EIN: 85-4351245

ISAIAH 41:10 KJV

Kingdom Promise:

Abundance, Hope, and a

Future

B Y K E L LY W I L L I A M S H A L E

Your Story. God’s Glory.

So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together to fit into God’s perfect plan of bringing good into our lives, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose.

(Romans 8:28 TPT) “We can’t heal what we don’t reveal,” I said to the women gathered at the quaint southern bistro in Franklin, North Carolina, on September 18, 2021. I was invited by my friend, April, to share a message at her monthly Ladies’ Day meeting, and we were wrapping up. April and I had been trying to get together for years, and when she asked if I’d be interested in speaking at her event, I immediately said yes. This would be a perfect opportunity to visit with her and share a message from my heart with her friends.

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I knew exactly what I would talk about. I recently submitted the final draft of a chapter I had written for Victories: Claiming Freedom in Christ, a book published by Women World Leaders in November of that year. The women at this gathering would be the first to hear about a time in my life I had kept buried for twenty-seven years. To say I was anxious would be an understatement. There are moments in our life that become core memories. This would become one of mine.

IT’S EASY TO THINK THAT OUR SIN IS TOO BIG OR TOO MUCH FOR GOD TO FORGIVE.

I stood before that beautiful group of women and shared my story: a time in my life I had never verbalized, much less in such a public setting.

As I began telling the women my experience, I began sobbing. I could barely articulate what would soon be available to the world.

You see, I had an abortion.

In front of a room full of strangers, I spoke out loud the secret I had been carrying for years. I ended a pregnancy on purpose. I was a divorced, single mother with a seven-year-old at the time.

In a financial mess, I was sleeping on a friend’s couch in a very small studio apartment while my daughter lived with her aunt. I’d only known the baby’s father for a few months. He also had a daughter and told me he was divorced. I found out later that he was still married.

My story is not unique. After I spoke that day, several women came up to me and said, “Your story is my story.” “I had an abortion too.”

“Honey, you are not alone.” The women in that

room were so gracious and accepting. I could feel the shame and guilt I had carried all those years literally fall off my shoulders. As I wiped away the tears, a sense of peace filled my soul. I was free.

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Galatians 5:1 NIV).

IT TAKES COURAGE TO SHARE OUR EXPERIENCE. After sharing the pain and trauma of ending my pregnancy, I received the revelation that the enemy has no power over me. In my weakness, grace found me. As Paul writes the Lord’s promise in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness” (TPT).

KINGDOM PROMISE: ABUNDANCE, HOPE, AND A FUTURE

There was always a part of me that felt like God couldn’t use me because of my past—that the decisions I made disqualified me. My sin kept me from fully stepping into the plans God had for me. But you see, He already knew. He knew that I would fall short. He knew I would hide. Yes, I am 100% responsible for my actions, as we all are. But we cannot allow our past mistakes to keep us from accepting God’s gift of grace.

THERE IS A NEED FOR AUTHENTICITY IN OUR WALK WITH THE LORD. It’s easy to think that our sin is too big or too much for God to forgive. We may feel like we are so far from God that we need a telescope to find Him. But He hasn’t left. He is patiently waiting for us. What the enemy meant for evil, God can truly use for good (Genesis 50:20). He takes our mess and creates a message—a message that may be ugly and seemingly unforgivable, but a message of forgiveness and hope.

Maybe you’re wondering, How can God use me?

Satan wants us to believe that we are too messed up, damaged, or unworthy for God to use us. But God says we are loved, chosen, and forgiven. We all have a story. One of my mantras is, Be Brave. It takes courage to share our experience. When we step out and share our story, it may not be perfect. But we are not called to perfection. God wants us to be obedient and to trust Him. There is a need for authenticity in our walk with the Lord. Now, more than ever, we must be real and transparent with our experience. It’s time to activate the power we hold through the wisdom we’ve gained.

The world needs your message of hope and love, pointing others to God. 68

BE BRAVE. I love the story of Esther. She hid her background from King Xerxes because her uncle instructed her to do so (Esther 2:10). What I find interesting is that she served the king for five years before she was called to save her people. Five years! I can only imagine the conversations she may or may not have had with the other women in the harem because of her secret.

What we do know is that it took courage for her to speak up. It was against the law to appear before the king without an invitation. Her decision to approach King Xerxes was brave. She appealed to the king to spare her people, and we are still talking about her today! Her story mattered, and yours does, too.

Kelly Williams Hale is an author, speaker, and coach.

Through inner healing and intimacy work, Kelly teaches women how to get past proving their worth and how to fall in love with God. You are invited to join her Facebook community—Sisters Who Shine— for inspiration, encouragement, and support. She can also be reached at thebebravelife@gmail.com.

CHASING BUTTERFLIES JOURNALS Be Different B Y C O N N I E VA N H O R N

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).

I

t can be challenging for Christians to stand boldly against social norms or actions that go against God’s desires. Besides the courage it takes to be different, we may be concerned that we will be perceived as judgmental or not showing the love of Jesus. But what Jesus did for us requires us to boldly and courageously stand up and be transformed.

God desires us to be different! Have you ever stepped back to consider how much our world and culture determine who we are? This is especially true for our younger generation. How do we encourage our younger generation to be different and take on a renewed mind?

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CHASING BUTTERFLIES JOURNALS

After I got saved, I went through a radical transformation.

So many things about me changed instantly. I still looked the same and spoke the same, but I was changing on the inside. I often share how the most noticeable transformation was my transformed mind. God knew exactly what parts of my mind needed to change first.

For example, I loved watching television shows after my children went to bed. It was my downtime. I didn’t have a smartphone, so endless late-night scrolling hadn’t invaded my life. Instead, I looked forward to certain shows or watching a good movie. Immediately after being saved, God transformed my mind and removed my desire to watch television. I replaced television with books. I started reading anything and everything about God. God changed my mind and my heart, renewing my mind to find joy in reading and learning more about Him. To this day, I choose reading over television. Actually, I would choose cleaning over television. God was polishing something in me—something to be used for His purpose.

Writing. Excellent writers are voracious readers. I didn’t realize I was studying words as I was soaking in God. I hadn’t learned about writing through a college education because I never attended college. Still, God was giving me a gift, and I was determined to use it for Him. We can trust the work God does in us. It’s not always easy or pain-free, but it’s worth the process. God’s will for us is good and perfect! But only by renewing our minds do we have the ability to test and prove to others what God’s good and perfect will is. Our lives are a living testimony of Jesus for a watching world to see. Only through our renewed mind and transformed life can others see Jesus shine bright!

Be teachable, and Jesus will change you.

Lay down your old life, and He will make you new.

I love the example of the caterpillar. It crawls belly down and is ugly to some; it would never change without the grace of our God. Then, the caterpillar turns into the most beautiful creature of all—a beautiful butterfly that can fly. This transformation is not without process. The caterpillar goes into a state of waiting and being squeezed.

And our transformation is not without process, either.

KEEP GOING! AND CLAIM PSALM 51:10! CREATE IN ME A PURE HEART, O GOD, AND RENEW A STEADFAST SPIRIT WITHIN ME (NIV).

Jesus offers us new lives for the old. And He offers wings instead of weak legs. Be teachable, take His offer, and fly.

God says, “I will train you.”

All you need is a willing heart and to be teachable. Jesus wasn’t searching out the most educated or experienced people. He was looking for F.A.T. people…

Faithful.

Available.

Teachable.

To be transformed, we must admit something is wrong and that we need to change. Change is hard and painful,

KEEP GOING, PRESS ON, AND NEVER GIVE UP. DO NOT LOSE HOPE AND SERVE THE PURPOSES OF GOD. 70

but God is more concerned with our character than He is with our comfort. If we want to be used by God, we must be willing to go through the process. We have to keep going!

Through testing, we gain perseverance. Christ is constantly working in us to transform us to be like Him, and it’s not always pretty. It’s painful, and it takes time. We must learn not to give up even on the days when giving up seems like the best choice.

Perseverance isn’t fun, and sometimes it hurts a lot. However, it is through perseverance that God propels the strong into action.

If you want to build a testimony that God can use, you have to be willing to go through the process. We can’t skip or bypass certain parts.

Never give up until God says it’s time. What you are doing is important. By persevering, you can ensure that God will have the final say. Keep going, press on, and never give up. Do not lose hope and serve the purposes of God. That’s what being different is all about.

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A Call to Writers WE’RE GATHERING AUTHORS FOR A NEW BOOK IN 2024:

RESTORATION: GOD BRINGS BEAUTY TO ASHES. IS GOD NUDGING YOU RIGHT NOW? CONTACT US AND SEE HOW GOD MIGHT USE YOUR STORY! EMAIL KIMBERLY@WOMENWORLDLEADERS.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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n a c e w r e h toget

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.

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!

or

Visit www.sanfordcoffee.com/WWL scan QR code now

Love Note I feel the Holy Spirit every time I open each magazine.

The reason why we are so adamant about sharing these stories with you is that the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus.

Voice of Truth magazine is a door of hope.

A path for biblical truths to be shared and invitations for others to know the love of Christ Jesus our Savior.

This is why we are alive, so that others may have the opportunity to know Him.

Dianelli Snapp Saluda, South Carolina

DEAR SISTER If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.

(Psalm 139:11 KJV) Dear sister, The words you speak have power. The words you speak over you will be the light of entrance to your soul or the darkness that the enemy wants to anchor you in. Give your words power. Speak with authority, power, and intention. Declare that even the moon that shines at night is the same light that illuminates your path and brightens your way during the day. Declare that your soul rejoices in the promises of the Lord because you know He has still called you worthy, valuable, and a woman of integrity.

God covers you with His love and surrounds you with His compassion.

You are not the sum of your past experiences and inadequacies, but you are the total woman with nothing missing and nothing lacking. Sister, let your light shine. Don’t dim your light so others can feel comfortable to shine.

Shine like the star you are.

Love you,

Dr. Jia Conway

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A Focus On Him

Blown off Course

PHOTO AND WRITING BY LILLIAN CUCUZZA

As Hurricane Idalia churned through the Gulf of Mexico, it brought with it wild flamingos that were migrating from Mexico to Cuba. The flamingos were swept up in the air currents against their will and eventually landed along the west coast of Florida and as far north as Ohio. Prior to this, flamingos had not been seen in Florida for over one hundred years!

doctors never diagnosed what was wrong with me, but I instantly knew what it was. God had other plans for me– even though those plans were not immediately revealed (Jeremiah 29:11). His plans were to prosper me, not to harm me, plans to give me hope and a future, and what a future He gave and is still giving me. That was a “God” hurricane that kept me in place for a purpose.

One particular flamingo, affectionately nicknamed “Peaches,” was dumped near St. Petersburg, Florida.

Some fishermen spotted it struggling to stay afloat. It was exhausted and close to drowning before being rescued. It was brought to a nearby bird rescue center where it was immediately tended to, rehabilitated, banded, marked with a tracking device, and reunited a few days later with a flock found on the beaches of Fort De Soto in St. Petersburg.

AND WE KNOW THAT IN ALL THINGS GOD WORKS FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM, WHO HAVE BEEN CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE.

Peaches was a victim of Hurricane Idalia, blown off course from her intended destination of Cuba. She had no control to fight the strong winds of the storm and was forced to surrender to whichever way the wind blew.

Although out of her comfort zone, Peaches is quickly adapting to her new environment, constantly searching for food (crustaceans) to keep her alive and peachy pink.

As I was writing this, I received a storm notification on my phone saying a certain tropical storm remains disorganized. Isn’t that what most storms in life are…

Disorganized? Chaotic? Yet we can have joy, peace, and courage in the storm by trusting fully in God. His Word tells us The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV).

Peaches made me reflect on one of the many “hurricanes” I’ve had in my life that threw me off course from my intended destination. When I was 18 years old, I gave my two-week notice to my employer, planning to move to Tennessee with friends and start a new business. That weekend, I fell deathly sick, and the following week, I retracted my notice to quit. After being in and out of the hospital many times over the next six months, I realized God wanted me to stay where I was. I surrendered to His will, and I immediately recovered. The

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(ROMANS 8:28 NIV)

The apostle Paul gives the formula for how not to be blown off course and still have joy and peace in every storm in your life. Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all.

The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV).

Sometimes, ill winds attempt to blow us off course. If we don’t have a strong foundation to stand on, we can be easily swayed in whichever direction the wind blows, especially if we are tired, struggling, and drowning in our situation–like Peaches. When we are blown off course, we, too, can be rescued, tended to, and banded

by Christ to get on the course He has set out for our lives. Be encouraged because we have the ability to resist and withstand the headwinds by standing firm in the faith and the Word of God (1 Peter 5:9).

Lillian’s passions are nature photography and serving God. She is a best-selling author, award-winning photographer, and a regular contributor to Voice of Truth magazine. Lillian uses her photography and writing talents to glorify and honor God for His beautiful creation.

Visit, like, and follow her websites: www.HisCreationsLLC.com, www.LillianCucuzzaPhotography.com, Facebook and Instagram @HISCreationsLLC, or email her at Lillian.HisCreations@gmail.com.

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COFFEE CHATS God’s Promise

BY TINA KADOLPH

It was 2010 or 2011 when we took a trip to the middle of the jungle of Guyana. We were the first Americans ever to visit Paramokatoi, the small village that could only be accessed by plane. It was a trip that would change my life for so many reasons.

crashed, no one would ever find me. I didn’t know that other members of the team were feeling the same way.

That was the first time I flew in a tiny plane over the wilderness and the first time I would be dropped in the middle of the jungle with no way out other than by plane. Personally and as a team, we truly had to trust Jesus as we did not know what to expect.

As we prepared to leave, we discovered that the combined weight of our bodies and luggage was too much for the plane to get off the ground. The runway was very short, making our arrival exhilarating as the amazing pilot skillfully landed on a very short runway.

But flying out using that same runway required strict weight limits, and we were too heavy.

Looking down from my seat in the airplane, I saw trees packed so tight they looked like broccoli. I’ll never forget the excitement I felt knowing I’d soon be in the middle of this jungle in a tiny village sharing Christ’s love, and at the same time, the anxiety as I thought that if we

The trip and experience were incredible, but what I want to share with you today is about our return flight.

So why didn’t they think of that before they took us in?

We all wondered and laughed about it. We knew God would find a way.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 NIV).

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It has surely not been easy.

But I continue to remind myself that I’m not in control; God is.

They finally decided they would have to bring another plane in and split the team so we could get out.

My daughter, Katrina, asked the pilot if he was sure we could now take off. His reply was, “I think so.”

My daughter said, “THINK?” He then smiled and laughed. But we didn’t really find that funny. I not only had my family but also a whole team I was responsible for. The pilot assured us he had our backs. And I prayed and felt peace. I knew God had our backs.

The takeoff was definitely an adventure.

Trust Jesus, trust Jesus.

Finally, we made it!! Whew! Up, up, and away.

We were going onto another larger village, and then, from there, we would hop on another plane big enough to hold us all. This was just going to be a little detour. I had no idea this “little detour” would be a huge turning point for me and Love Missions.

This time, I looked down as we were flying and saw nothing but ugly dirt—not the beautiful broccoli-like trees I had seen before. Miles and miles of nothing.

Dirt. Not a tree in sight.

I finally asked the pastor, “What is that?”

He told me it was where they were mining for gold— they were stripping the jungle. My heart sank as I thought of how people, for greed, were destroying God’s beauty. What I didn’t realize was that God wanted me to see visually the damage being done; He wanted me to see the beauty that was being destroyed. He was preparing me.

It was about to get worse.

Both planes landed in the village, and as we were waiting to get on the next plane, I realized we were in the village where the mining was originating. It was there where mining supplies were being brought in to destroy God’s creation. That’s why they had a bigger plane.

As we wandered around, tents were set up in the dirt that seemed to stretch forever. A few of the tents had lines of men leading up to them. I asked, “What is that? What are those men lined up for?”

My thought was they must be waiting for supplies or food. I was not prepared for the answer.

The lines were for prostitution.

Women and children were being sexually violated in 79

COFFEE CHATS

those tents. Their bodies were being used over and over by the men waiting in line.

It has surely not been easy. But I continue to remind myself that I’m not in control; God is.

Do you feel the impact of those words the way I did?

As we were flying out of that horrible village with broken hearts, anxiety, disgust, and worry, God gave us the biggest rainbow, showing us He knows and that we must trust Him.

Children were being raped and sold for prostitution, and no one cared. The answer to my question came out of the man’s mouth so casually, as if he had said they were picking up bread.

God wanted me to see visually the real damage being done; He wanted me to see the real beauty that was being destroyed.

I was devastated. What could I do? How could I help?

That’s the day huge prayers began. That’s the day God showed me that addressing human trafficking was His will for Love Missions. That’s the day my heart truly broke, and I knew God’s heart was being broken, too!

That was the day God told me it was time to start sharing His story of what He has done in my life.

That was a hard day. But it was the day so many lives would begin to be changed. God knew what I didn’t.

AS FOR YOU, YOU MEANT EVIL AGAINST ME, BUT GOD MEANT IT FOR GOOD, TO BRING IT ABOUT THAT MANY PEOPLE SHOULD BE KEPT ALIVE, AS THEY ARE TODAY. (Genesis 50:20 RSV)

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Way up in the sky, we could now look down over our broccoli trees and see God’s promise. He always has a plan, even if we don’t see it.

THE LORD IS CLOSE TO THE BROKENHEARTED AND SAVES THOSE WHO ARE CRUSHED IN SPIRIT. (Psalm 34:18 NIV)

Thank you, Jesus, for loving us. Even when we see the evil of this world, and it feels so overwhelming, you show us you know and you are in charge. You have a plan. Our job is to trust you, listen, and follow as you guide our every step.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).

There is so much more to share on how God used this moment in time. But that’s for another article.

Thank you for always reading about my little adventures with God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 NIV).

James 1:17 ESV

Every

perfect gift is from

above.

BY SARA SAHM

Songs

from the

Spirit

SCAN THIS CODE WITH YOUR PHONE CAMERA TO LISTEN TO SARA’S SONG: FALL INTO PRAYER

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T

he Bible calls Jesus the Breath of Life. I especially love Acts 17:25, which teaches: And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything.

Rather, he himself gives everything life and breath and everything else (NIV).

sang. I was filled with so much peace as I played, just crying out to the Lord. In Matthew 11:28 (NIV), Jesus says this: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” God proved this verse true to me that day.

I have struggled with anxiety. Sometimes, it causes me to feel as though I cannot breathe. When that happens, I often reach for a band-aid, not my Bible.

On days I find myself drained, sad, or anxious, I’d love to say that the first place I always go is prayer, but that would be a lie. One day, I went to the piano, and God came with me, allowing the prayer in my heart to flow into a song. I felt as if God said to me, “Why? Why do you gasp for air rather than turn to me? I am the breath of life, living water, creator, and sustainer of all.”

Find your own way to “fall into prayer.” My way is often through song. The point is to fall into prayer as you surrender it all. Falling at Jesus’ feet.

Maybe it’s only me who tries to white-knuckle life.

But I doubt it. The enemy doesn’t want us to fall into prayer. It’s no wonder; his world is filled with empty promises masqueraded as pretty solutions. We all want a quick fix. God doesn’t promise a quick fix or an easy road, But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57 NIV).

We all have days when life gets so busy we can’t breathe. Don’t say, “I’ll pray later—when I get things done.” Instead, Stop, Fall into Prayer, and rest in Him until you begin to breathe again.

Sara Sahm is a musician and songwriter. She recently became the worship leader for Woman World Leaders. Sara serves on the prayer team in her church and leads worship at local gatherings. She resides in Jupiter, Florida, with her husband and two young girls. She is a busy mom but tries to find a balance between home and ministry. You can download her songs for free at sarasahmmusic.com or watch videos on YouTube @sarasahm5437

YOU SAY, “COME. COME TO ME. ASK AND RECEIVE ALL THAT YOU NEED. STOP GASPING FOR LIFE. STOP DYING FOR AIR. FALL INTO PRAYER.”

The lyrics above just flowed. It was the most satisfying experience—I turned on my voice recorder and just 83

PSALM 118:14 NIV

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As we walk this earth, we can live with a Miracle Mindset by choosing an activated faith that trusts beyond a shadow of a doubt that God is sovereign. He remains in control even when circumstances seem out of control. He’s always watching, always protecting, and always directing us. Even when life makes absolutely no sense, we can remain focused on Him with a heart of gratitude, knowing He is faithful to lead us.

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MUSINGS ON THE BOOK OF JOHN

BY CONNIE HECKER

John 4:1-9 (NIV) Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John—although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)

John 2:1-5 (NIV) On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.“ “Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.”

His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

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Both of Jesus’ adjustments involved the circumstances and the culture around Him. In response to the problems with the Pharisees, Jesus left because it was not yet the time for that confrontation. In response to the circumstances at the wedding, after being asked to get involved in this cultural disaster about to happen, Jesus stayed and confronted the problem, providing the solution.

Jesus’ timeframe of action did not revolve around the circumstances of the day but around His mission that needed to be accomplished. Jesus had a process for “His time.”

For me, applying this means that I should check my mission. What adjustment must I make to accomplish His mission for my life? Is there a change of culture or location necessary? I can let requests alter my choices, and the knowledge of my circumstances and the plans of others change my location, but at the heart, I must keep following His plan. n

What circumstance am I in today? Have I gotten stuck in date and time-based problems? Am I doing the work He has for me to do? Do I need to change something, approach it from another angle, or meet a request from someone? Am I being pressured to go in a wrong direction, or am I being lured by my success and in danger of going off of His plan by doing the right thing in ‘my time’ instead of in His right time?

n

Will I trust Him with my decisions?

n

Will I do what He has for me no matter where I have to travel, trusting Him to provide in His time when it is time to go home?

n

Will I trust Him to tell me when it is time to go back to my roots?

Adjusting to the Circumstances When Jesus knew the Pharisees had heard of His growing following, He knew it was time to leave the area and head back to His home in Galilee. Jesus adjusted to the situation and moved in response to both the circumstances and the choices of the culture around Him. He deliberately took the route through Samaria to return to Galilee.

Previously, when the wine ran out at the wedding described in John, chapter 2, Mary had interceded, going directly to Jesus. But that time, Jesus responded to the timing differently, reminding this “woman” that His “hour had not yet come.”

Then, seemingly regardless of His own comment, He met her request.

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MUSINGS ON THE BOOK OF JOHN

n

n

Will I trust Him even if I have to leave behind a great success and put my focus in a new direction or return to an old one?

Will I let His perfect timing for His perfect plan abide in me today as I trust His ways?

Value of Neediness On the way to Galilee, Jesus became tired. He had been walking for many hours with His group. The God of the Universe, Creator of all, sat down to rest His human form. His tired team went on to the town to buy food. n

Am I that kind of friend?

n

Would I, too, be willing to walk on a bit further while another rested so that I could bring back food?

n

Do I have that servant’s heart?

But Jesus’ heart was not resting, just His legs. For the place was a chosen place, a place with history.

The well they stopped at, John tells us, is the one Jacob gave to his son, Joseph; Joseph, who had gone into captivity, sold away by his brothers for a later purpose—the rescue of Israel. Now, in that place of refreshment and provision for all comes Jesus. And a woman. She came at this very specific hour we are told of. It is not the usual social time to draw water.

She comes after hours because she is an outcast. She comes at a time when she can avoid the disdain of others. What an awful and isolated life she had— used by some men of the community and shunned by the women. One single man would not keep her from coming to the well. She could face one—with her guard up. Besides, He would certainly not talk with her because He, by His dress, was a Jew, so she felt safe.

I can learn from her. I will take the risk. n

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Do I need to talk to Jesus?

n

Do I feel I am safer in His presence because He is alone?

n

Do I fear He is so holy and apart from me, He will not care to speak to me?

Yet speak He does. And not to criticize nor condemn nor shame. Jesus asks for her help! She is the needy one. She is broken. What does she have that she can give to Him? She is not only an outcast to Jews as a Samaritan woman, but she is an outcast in her own hometown because of her lifestyle. What does she have that she can possibly give Him? She has the ability to draw water and refresh His human form.

THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE, CREATOR OF ALL, SAT DOWN TO REST HIS HUMAN FORM.

Do I realize that I, too, as well as every suffering person, have something to offer another? It may be a simple gesture that I take so for granted that I do not realize its power. Perhaps a wave of the hand before me in a line, or a simple smile for the mother struggling with a temperamental toddler, or a gracious thank you for expected service. We all have an offering. When Jesus met this spiritually needy woman, He asked for her help BEFORE He offered His. When I want to help another whom I think is in need, do I ask for their help first? What value Jesus gave her! What healing of wounds started by that simple request! How blessed and humble my Lord is.

Jesus is polite, kind in His request. Am I? Do I place value on those from whom I am asking for help in something so small yet so refreshing as a drink of water? (Hey, for me, it may be coffee.) But how do I ask?

When Jesus asks of me, will I provide Him what He asks for? Since He would never ask from me that which I do not have the ability to give, what is He asking of me? He thirsts. Will I draw Him His water?

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.

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RED CARPET READY It’s A Date!

BY DEANN ALAINE

Calendars are a funny thing. A record of time. They include what we hold dear. Although, do we really need New Year’s Day marked on a calendar? There are calendars for work and calendars for special events; calendars printed on paper and some that are digital. Some people use calendars as countdowns —like how many days ‘til Christmas.

Memories are inspired by certain dates. For my 6th birthday, a girl gave me a plant. A plant! I don’t know any 6-year-old with a green thumb. I still don’t have a green thumb. One year for Christmas I received a gift and didn’t know what it was. It was sweater-like material with an opening at the top and bottom, but it was too small to be a full sweater, and there were two. So I put them on my arms and ran around like a clown. Not much has changed since then. The gift was leg warmers! It was 1982. Those gifts were prompted by specific

How much power do we give a date on the calendar?

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dates, and those dates carry a memory for me.

How much power do we give a date on the calendar? For some, a first wedding anniversary should be a heavyweight date; while celebrating a 6th anniversary, not so much. But what makes the difference?

Ahhhh, our emotions make the difference!

Now we are nearing Christmas, and oh my goodness, there are a myriad of emotions that are uprooted during this time. Kids are typically excited because they get out of school. Parents can be stressed because the kids are out of school! Young adults may worry because they’re bringing “someone” home for the holiday and don’t know how their parents are going to deal! While other young

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4:7 KJV)

adults face the holiday without having someone to share it with. Some people really struggle because it reminds them of a time that was shared with a spouse or friend that has passed. Others may be thrilled they don’t have to deal with irrational people who prescribe imaginary, unrealistic expectations on others…like Clark from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation! No cats eating Christmas tree lights this year! WooHoooo!!!

I used to set myself up for great defeat when faced with a date! I would let my emotions take me away, believing a specific date was so important.

I would attach unreasonable thoughts and emotions that would exalt themselves above who Jesus is. Hmmm, why do I think that sounds like something I’ve read? Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV). Often, that verse is associated with lust, even though the entire chapter is about authority. But this one verse has so much packed into it!

During special holidays, do I allow my imagination to run wild? Do I set my emotions on a crash course to Depressionville or Anxietyville?

Then Jesus called me to the Red Carpet. I had to repent! I used a date to justify manipulating people around me. I was not giving His Holy Spirit the authority to guide my emotions the way they needed to go! I would tell myself, “This is the day that the Lord has made, but it’s still Christmas.”

Then, I would do whatever I wanted on that date. I should have given the Lord space by asking, “How do You want today to go?” I usually start each day asking for His direction! Why should a holiday be any different? I was not practicing Philippians 4:7, And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (KJV). I didn’t want Him to keep me! I wanted my own way.

Now I look back at that Christmas in 1982, and I’m wondering, did my mom freak out? Were her emotions running amuck? I hope she wasn’t thinking, “I have to find Peanut leg warmers. I 91

RED CARPET READY

just have to find them! If I don’t find them, her Christmas is going to be ruined!” I’m laughing so hard right now! Or the absurdity of her calling out to the Lord, saying, “God, please help me to find those jelly shoes and that Cabbage Patch doll!” NO WAY! That’s irrational since we lived in a single-wide trailer!

With our changed eyesight, we celebrate all of the time (within our budget)!

I would hate if the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was reduced to crazy emotions, only to find something that would end up in a landfill! Dates are a good thing, and remembering is a good thing; it’s even biblical! But not if the cost includes taking our eyes off Jesus for a day to have our own way. It is dangerous—YES, DANGEROUS!—to set up emotional traps. Being constantly disappointed may lead to depression.

And there are plenty of studies that show chronic mental and emotional stress may manifest physically. So be honest. Are there dates holding you captive? Are you holding others emotionally captive because of how you think a date needs to be facilitated? In Jesus’ name, let go. In Jesus’ name, let yourself and others off the hook. Ask the Lord how He wants your special date to go, and then yield to what plans He may have in mind that you wouldn’t have even thought of yourself! After all, His ways are higher than our own.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither

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are your ways my ways, declares the LORD (Isaiah 55:8 NIV). That verse applies to holidays, family reunions, birthdays, anniversaries, and yes, even National Donut Day on June 7th.

Since that specific day of repentance, the dates my family and I celebrate are ones the Lord made a priority. And they’re almost never on the American calendar. We celebrate when our mind changes about something, and the Lord is glorified! Y’all need to know I will make homemade chocolate pudding on the stove when we hear His voice! That probably explains why my jeans are a bit snug. We will have a literal carpet party after I finish writing an article for Voice of Truth!

We love celebrating all the right things. There’s ZERO guilt, and it puts an emphasis on our daily spiritual health rather than on a date because “everyone else is doing it.” With our changed eyesight, we celebrate all of the time (within our budget)!

Now roll out that red carpet and celebrate God’s way!

Love y’all, DeAnn Alaine

DeAnn Alaine is a comedienne whose mandate from the Lord is to bring joy to the world! She is a published author/ cowriter in Miracle Mindset: Finding Hope In The Chaos.

DeAnn is the CEO of ComeeDeAnn Productions LLC and the creator/director of Fade Away, a work-place comedy about the best 3rd rate funeral home! Check out Fade Away’s cast and preview at www.deannalaine.com today! Need a comedienne for your next date? You can book DeAnn from her website or email deannalaine@outlook.com.

LISTA PARA LA ALFOMBRA ROJA ¡Es una cita!

BY DEANN ALAINE

Los calendarios son algo curioso. Un récord de tiempo. Incluyen lo que apreciamos. Aunque, ¿realmente necesitamos marcar el día de Año Nuevo en un calendario? Hay calendarios para el trabajo y calendarios para eventos especiales; calendarios impresos en papel y algunos que son digitales.

Algunas personas usan calendarios como cuentas regresivas, como cuántos días faltan para Navidad.

Los recuerdos se inspiran en determinadas fechas.

Para mi sexto cumpleaños, una niña me regaló una planta. ¡Una planta! No conozco a ningún niño de 6 años con buenas habilidades para la jardinería.

Todavía no tengo habilidad para la jardinería. Un año para Navidad recibí un regalo y no sabía qué era. Era un material parecido a un suéter con una abertura en la parte superior e inferior, pero era demasiado pequeño para ser un suéter completo, y había dos. Así que me los puse en los brazos y corrí como un payaso. No ha cambiado mucho desde entonces. ¡El regalo fueron unos calentadores de piernas! Era 1982. Esos obsequios fueron motivados por fechas específicas, y esas fechas traen un recuerdo para mí. ¿Cuánta potencia le damos a una fecha en el calendario? Para algunos, el primer aniversario de bodas debería ser una fecha importante; mientras que un sexto aniversario, no tanto. Pero ¿qué marca la diferencia?

¡Ahhhh, nuestras emociones marcan la diferencia!

Ahora nos acercamos a la Navidad y, oh Dios mío, hay un sinfín de emociones que se desarraigan durante esta época. Los niños suelen estar emocionados porque salen de la escuela. ¡Los padres pueden estar estresados porque los niños no van a la escuela! Los adultos jóvenes pueden preocuparse porque traerán a “alguien” a casa para las vacaciones y no saben cómo lo van a afrontar sus padres. Mientras que otros jóvenes afrontan las vacaciones sin tener con quién compartirlas. Algunas personas realmente luchan porque les recuerda un momento que compartieron con un cónyuge o un amigo que ya pasó. Otros pueden estar encantados de no tener que lidiar con personas irracionales que prescriben expectativas imaginarias y poco realistas a los demás... como Clark

¿Cuánta potencia le damos a una fecha en el calendario?

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de National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation! ¡Este año no habrá gatos comiendo luces de árboles de Navidad! Wooooo!!! ¡Solía prepararme para una gran derrota cuando me enfrentaba a una cita! Dejaba que mis emociones me llevaran, creyendo que una fecha específica era muy importante. Adjuntaría pensamientos y emociones irracionales que se exaltarían por encima de quién es Jesús. Hmmm, ¿por qué creo que eso suena como algo que he leído? Derribando argumentos y toda altivez que se levanta contra el conocimiento de Dios, y llevando cautivo todo pensamiento a la obediencia a Cristo (2 Corintios 10:5). A menudo, ese versículo se asocia con la lujuria, aunque todo el capítulo trata sobre la autoridad. ¡Pero este versículo tiene mucho contenido! Durante las fiestas especiales, ¿dejo volar mi imaginación? ¿Pongo mis emociones en un curso intensivo hacia la depresión o ansiedad?

Entonces Jesús me llamó a la alfombra roja. ¡Tuve que arrepentirme! Usé una fecha para justificar la manipulación de las personas que me rodean. ¡No le estaba dando a Su Espíritu Santo la autoridad para guiar mis emociones en el camino que debían tomar! Me decía a mí mismo: “Este es el día que hizo el Señor, pero todavía es Navidad”.

Entonces, haría lo que quisiera en esa fecha. Debí haberle dado espacio al Señor preguntándole: “¿Cómo quieres que transcurra hoy?” ¡Por lo general comienzo cada día pidiendo Su dirección! ¿Por qué las vacaciones deberían ser diferentes?

No estaba practicando Filipenses 4:7, Y la paz de Dios, que sobrepasa todo entendimiento, guardará vuestros corazones y vuestros pensamientos en Cristo Jesús (KJV). ¡No quería que Él me retuviera!

Quería mi propio camino.

Ahora recuerdo aquella Navidad de 1982 y me preguntó: ¿mi madre se asustó? ¿Estaban sus emo-

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ciones enloquecidas? Espero que no estuviera pensando: “Tengo que encontrar calentadores de piernas Peanut. ¡Solo tengo que encontrarlos! ¡Si no los encuentro, su Navidad se arruinará! ¡Me estoy riendo mucho ahora mismo! O lo absurdo de ella invocando al Señor, diciendo: “¡Dios, por favor ayúdame a encontrar esos zapatos de gelatina y esa muñeca Cabbage Patch!” ¡DE NINGUNA MANERA! ¡Eso es irracional ya que vivíamos en un remolque de un solo ancho!

¡Con nuestra nueva visión, celebramos todo el tiempo (dentro de nuestro presupuesto)! ¡Odiaría que el nacimiento de nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo se redujera a emociones locas, sólo para encontrar algo que terminaría en un vertedero! Las fechas especiales son algo bueno y recordar es algo bueno; ¡Es incluso bíblico! Pero no si el costo incluye quitar nuestros ojos de Jesús por un día para salirnos con la nuestra. Es peligroso ¡SÍ, PELIGROSO! tender trampas emocionales. Estar constantemente decepcionada puede provocar depresión. Y hay muchos estudios que muestran que el estrés mental y emocional crónico puede manifestarse físicamente. Así que sea honesta. ¿Hay fechas que te mantienen cautiva? ¿Mantienes a otros emocionalmente cautivos por cómo crees que se debe llevarse a cabo una fecha?

En el nombre de Jesús, déjalo ir. En el nombre de Jesús, libérese a sí misma y a los demás del apuro.

Pregúntale al Señor cómo quiere que transcurra tu fecha especial, y luego cede a los planes que

Él pueda tener en mente y que tú ni siquiera habrías pensado.

Después de todo, sus caminos son más elevados que los nuestros. Porque mis pensamientos no son vuestros pensamientos, ni vuestros caminos mis caminos, declara el Señor (Isaías 55:8 NVI). Ese versículo se aplica a días festivos, reuniones familiares, cumpleaños, aniversarios y, sí, incluso al Día Nacional de la Donut el 7 de junio.

Desde ese día específico de arrepentimiento, las fechas que mi familia y yo celebramos son aquellas que el Señor dio prioridad. Y casi nunca están en el calendario estadounidense. ¡Celebramos cuando nuestra mente cambia sobre algo y el Señor es glorificado! ¡Todos necesitan saber que haré pudín de chocolate casero en la estufa cuando escuchemos Su voz!

Probablemente eso explica por qué mis jeans me quedan un poco ajustados. ¡Tendremos una fiesta literal después de que termine de escribir un artículo para este magazine The Voice of Truth!

Nos encanta celebrar todas las cosas correctas.

Hay CERO culpa y pone énfasis en nuestra salud espiritual diaria en lugar de en una fecha porque “todos los demás lo están haciendo”. ¡Con nuestra nueva visión, celebramos todo el tiempo (dentro de nuestro presupuesto)!

¡Ahora extiende esa alfombra roja y celebra a la manera de Dios!

Los amo a todos, DeAnn Alaine

¡DeAnn Alaine es una comediante cuyo mandato del Señor es traer alegría al mundo! Es autora y coautora de Miracle Mindset: Finding Hope In The Chaos. DeAnn es directora ejecutiva de ComeeDeAnn Productions LLC y creadora y directora de Fade Away, una comedia en el lugar de trabajo sobre la mejor funeraria de tercera categoría. ¡Mira el elenco y la vista previa de Fade Away en www.deannalaine.com hoy! ¿Necesitas una comediante para tu próxima fecha? Puedes reservar a DeAnn desde su sitio web o enviar un correo electrónico a deannalaine@outlook.com.

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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 MELISSA GISSY WITHERSPOON FROM WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA Almost a decade ago, my twenty-plus years of active addiction led me to my darkest rock bottom on my unfinished basement floor, where I attempted to take my own life. I just couldn’t go another day of causing pain to those I loved. I couldn’t will myself to live with my terrible disease any longer.

I was filled with so much guilt and riddled with so much shame and resentment that I had lost all hope.

But God… He revealed Himself to me that day. He had left the ninetynine sheep to find the one. I was granted the opportunity to repent and turn my will over to and follow Him. And I desperately accepted the offer. In the moment I could have turned my back on Him and given in to the demons calling for my soul, I was rescued by His grace and mercy. And I have never looked back.

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It hasn’t been an easy path of recovery, but we aren’t promised easy. What we are promised, according to Ezekiel 36:26, is that God will give us a new heart and put a new spirit in us. This life brings us all kinds of moments filled with so many things—messy things, sad things, joyous things, beautiful things—ALL the things! And in this second lease on life, I’m grateful to be sober and present for all of them.

One of the biggest blessings in my recovery journey is the unity I’ve found along the way. God has placed so many wonderful people in my life. As I continue to grow spiritually and build an intimate relationship with our Father, I meet the most remarkable women who guide me closer and closer to Him. Connie Vanhorn and Kimberly Hobbs welcomed me into Women World Leaders to share my story as a contributing author in the newly launched, international best-selling book Miracle Mindset. Having the opportunity to work alongside this beautiful group of women brings continuous joy and great inspiration to my heart. Being surrounded by so many precious, Christ-centered women of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds, all with a common interest in serving God with a purpose, leaves me in awe.

something that will inspire you to use your voice of truth to encourage and empower others. May the peace and love of Christ be with you always.

In this life, God will call us to do hard, scary things we don’t think are possible. I am sharing a piece of my faith story with prayers and hope that it stirs up something in you—

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ (Ephesians 4:15 NIV).

In this life, God will call us to do hard, scary things we don’t think are possible.

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VOICE OF TRUTH STORIES

MEET KIMBERLY EWELL FROM MOUNT DORA, FLORIDA To everything, there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven.

(Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV) If I had to choose my favorite season, it would be fall.

Something about fall weather causes me to be still, sit back, and reflect on what God has been doing in my life as I continue to walk and grow in Him. My journey with the Lord has been in seasons. Fall is a time to be in His presence more and to be more purposeful. This is where my pruning takes place in preparation for the next season.

Some may think the pruning process is challenging; yes, it can be. However, we are to count it with all joy.

I find joy in what the Lord has done through the challenges, the heartaches, and loneliness. Joy and peace permeate my heart as I reflect on His goodness.

My heart sings, “Glory, Glory to you, oh Lord, how gracious you are to me.”

My seasons have been a time to die to self, A time to heal, A time to break down, And a time to build up; A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance;…

A time to embrace,…

A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to throw away;…

A time to keep silence, And a time to speak; A time to love,…

And a time of peace.

(Ecclesiastes 3:3-8 NKJV) God is purposeful in the seasons we are in!

In these times, I couldn’t see what the Lord was doing on the inside of me, let alone know what He had been 98

preparing me for all along. My seasons of pruning and refining have brought me to where I am today—to my purpose.

It’s no accident that someone has placed this Voice of Truth magazine in your hand. Like you, a friend, Candice Daniels, gave me a Voice of Truth magazine and told me I had a story to share. That afternoon, I went to the Lord and said, “Lord, if you want me to share my story, I will.

Just let me know.” Moments later, I opened VOT and saw, “A Call to Writers.”

Things progressed rapidly after Candice introduced me to Kimberly Hobbs; I entered a new season and wrote in my first book, Surrendered: Yielded with Purpose. Then I wrote in Miracle Mindset: Finding Hope in the Chaos, and there are more books to come. The season I’m in, the NOW, has brought me to a new place of PURPOSE. I’ve gained a precious friend in Kimberly. Her encouragement has lifted me high and helped me move forward into my PURPOSE, which is writing and sharing my stories with other women. I’ve been blessed to meet other women through WWL who I can call my friends. I have found a place of unity, love, encouragement, and purpose.

Whatever season you are in, count it all JOY and know that God is leading you into your PURPOSE!

MEET MARY KAY INGLIS FROM CALIFORNIA Written by Kimberly Ewell in honor of her best friend.

I was sitting on my sofa when, out of nowhere, I heard in my heart, “Bring Mary Kay to Florida!”

I thought, Well, okay, Lord, that was random. But I will if you want me to. I’ve learned when God says to do something, we don’t need to know the why or how; we just need to do it!

I paused a moment, then called MK. I said, “Girl! This may sound crazy, but God told me to bring you to Florida.”

When I heard her giggle and say, “OMG,” I knew God was up to something!

She said, “The Lord just told me to LIVE LIFE!” “Let’s do it!” I didn’t tell her the Lord told me she was to fly the BEST. So, I booked a first-class flight for my dear friend. I didn’t have the means to pay for a first-class flight; however, because of obedience, He provided.

When MK arrived in Florida, we had no idea why she was here, but we believed and knew God had a purpose. I felt a tug in my heart to introduce MK to Kimberly Hobbs and that MK was to write her story in the upcoming book Unshakable. I handed MK a Voice of Truth magazine, and she had that same giggle and said, “OMG! Before coming to Florida, I kept seeing yellow butterflies, and look! The magazine has butterflies on the cover.” There was no doubt God was confirming what I suspected.

Just days later, MK was sharing her heart and story with Kimberly. They arranged a WWL podcast interview and for MK to write her Unshakable story. Watching God orchestrate His purpose through the two of them was an honor. During MK’s stay, I watched God start transforming her. We’d make plans, but God would interrupt them and heal her heart of deep-seated unforgiveness. He was freeing her from her cocoon and transforming her into a beautiful yellow butterfly.

You see, MK had cancer. She rarely spoke of it, nor did she ever complain. Her faith was in the Lord; she knew she had already been healed at the cross 2,000 years ago. Her mission was to share her “Submission to Freedom” story, and her desire was for women to walk closer with Jesus. Kimberly and MK set September 13,

2023, to record the “Submission to Freedom” podcast.

However, the morning she was to record the podcast, MK went home to Jesus. Kimberly and I both heard in our hearts that the podcast still needed to be done. Because of obedience, MK’s story is now being shared around the world. God knew who the “Submission to Freedom” was meant for, and they’re listening to it now. (The podcast, Women World Leaders’ Podcast episode 487, can be heard on all podcast outlets and at womenworldleaders. com) I had a vision the day MK went home. Jesus was waiting for her with His hand held out. She took His hand, and Jesus took her on a tour of heaven. My beautiful friend has fully transformed into freedom and is now walking with Jesus. Glory to God that His purpose is being fulfilled.

Women World Leaders is blessed to print this Voice of Truth story written by Kimberly Ewell to honor her friend Mary Kay Inglis—two women whose hearts are intertwined with this ministry. MK had given her “yes” to the Lord to write for this edition, but God called her home before she did. Then, He called on Kimberly to write on MK’s behalf. Thank you, Kimberly, and thank you, MK, for your willingness to be used

by God despite what happens in our earthly bodies. To God be all the glory.

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VOICE OF TRUTH STORIES

MEET TAWANA LOWERY FROM BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA host of the Friday edition of Women World Leaders’ Podcast, Celebrating God’s Grace. This has truly been an amazing opportunity for which I am eternally grateful.

Not surprisingly, God had already spoken to me about beginning a podcast by October 2023. Another Kairos moment!

And if that were not enough, I received my first Voice of Truth magazine and was very impressed. The quality of the articles and the exquisite design make this a topshelf publication rivaling anything the secular world has to offer.

Last April, after our Miss Overcomer women’s event, I received a call from my dear friend Candace Kirkpatrick.

She inquired if I knew about Women World Leaders or their founder, Kimberly Hobbs. I replied that I was not aware but would love to learn more. Candace continued, “I’m going to send an introduction text. The two of you need to meet because you’re closely aligned in your mission for women, and you both have a global focus.”

A few days later, I was on a Zoom call with Kimberly, and the connection was immediate! It truly felt as if we had known each other for years. As we shared our hearts about the ministries and the vision God had given us, it became very apparent we were in the middle of a Kairos moment! Our great God had divinely connected Women World Leaders and Miss Overcomer Global to seek Him for what He wanted us to do together for His precious daughters.

Shortly after, I had the pleasure of being a guest on the Women World Leaders’ Podcast. It was so much fun.

After Kimberly interviewed me for the Monday edition, Empowering Lives with Purpose, we stayed on the call for 30 minutes, talking about all God wants to accomplish through his daughter ambassadors and their vital role in advancing His kingdom.

Kimberly then asked if I would be interested in becoming a regular contributor to the podcast. I am now a monthly 100

It gives me great joy to share this with you because I believe we are in a pivotal moment in history where the Lord is marshaling His daughters for greatness. We have a magnanimous calling and assignment to represent our great King and His eternal kingdom. What a humbling honor it is to co-create with Him as we collaborate with each other for the sake of the harvest!

As daughters of the Most High King, we are called to pray for and seek divine kingdom connections. The Lord’s heart is that we accomplish His plan of global salvation in community with the body of believers. That is exactly what Women World Leaders is doing. And I am ecstatic He graced my life with this ministry and the community it represents.

I consider these connections “dress rehearsals” for the day we rule and reign with our Savior for eternity. It gives me great joy when I think about the moment we will witness each other receiving crowns from our King. All the struggle, all the doubt, and all the sleepless nights will be well worth it on that day!

Thank you, Kimberly and your incredible team, for inviting me (and Miss Overcomer) to walk alongside you. You are all giants of The Faith; your commitment and sacrifice strengthen my own. Who knew “iron sharpening iron” included lipstick, hairspray, and lots of pink?! But we are Women World Leaders, after all!

Tawana Lowery is a certified leadership coach, author, speaker, podcast host and Executive Director of Miss Overcomer Global. www.MissOvercomer.com Tawana@MissOvercomer.com

As daughters of the Most High King, we are called to pray for and seek divine kingdom connections.

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VOICE OF TRUTH STORIES

MEET ALICIA ROBERTS FROM CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA A get-to-know-you call with WWL’s founder Kimberly Hobbs led to a podcast interview, the beginning of a new relationship with a sister-in-Christ, and an answer to prayer that I’d been waiting on. Shortly before talking to Kimberly, I’d been trying to determine how and when to get back on course with my ministry and business, The Confident Lily.

Since August of 2020, I’d been non-stop producing content, networking, coaching, and sharing what God had placed on my heart to help women heal emotionally and become more faithful and bold. I was still pouring into others and leading by example despite recently having my own inner-healing experience and continuously facing personal challenges.

In November 2022, I lost my significant other in a tragic car accident. I was shocked, heartbroken, and confused. I couldn’t understand why God would allow his life to end the way it did. I felt like I could’ve done something different to prevent the accident, like maybe telling him not to drive out of town for work that day. I felt guilty because he’d asked me to marry him; being recently divorced, I wanted to wait. All he truly wanted was to be loved and have a family. I was heartbroken and confused about what my next steps would be, but my faith never dwindled.

He was my biggest supporter and pushed me not to give up. I cleaved to that memory in the months that followed his passing and continued with business. Earlier this year, I began feeling weary, let down by others not honoring commitments, emotionally depleted, and yearned to just focus on me. I took most of the summer to rest, restore, and rediscover things that made me happy. Even during this rest period, I still felt God saying, “Don’t quit!”

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I prayed and journaled, asking God to direct my path, instruct me on who to work with and what to create, and connect me with those who need and want what I have to offer. Even as I focused on other things, God kept opening doors for me, nudging me, and displaying new opportunities. When I was introduced to Women World Leaders, I knew it was a sign. I felt like God was waving a banner saying, “It’s time, Alicia. Go forth!”

When I received Voice of Truth, I was immediately captivated by the beauty and content of the magazine. The devotions and testimonies shared were uplifting and well thought-out. The cover story talked about following His voice and inspired me so much. The highlighted scripture in that section from Isaiah 30:21 NKJV says,

Your ears shall hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.

God was talking to me. I heard Him. I recommitted to continuously following His steps as He guides me.

Sometimes rest is needed. Life can be noisy at times, and we need to refocus. There are many ways that God gets our attention; this is how He got mine. His timing is perfect, and I am thankful for the Voice of Truth arriving when it did.

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.

(1 Peter 4:10 ESV)

Global Connections

Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada Kelowna Fire 2023

B Y C A R O L T U R KO

I

have spent most of my life on the Canadian prairies, where I raised my two sons. Then, I followed my dream to move west to the beautiful Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada.

On August 15th, 2023, a wildfire started in the McDougall Creek area and spread quickly to West Kelowna, then across the lake to Kelowna. I was on my way home from a long vacation out east when I heard of this aggressive wildfire that was quickly advancing. At first, I did not take note of it because we have fires in the Okanagan every summer. But this soon proved to be a very aggressive wildfire, as it moved through whole neighborhoods along 104

West Side road. It was being likened to the fire Kelowna had experienced exactly 20 years before, on August 16th, 2003, which started with a lightning strike and resulted in hundreds of homes lost. This recent, very aggressive wildfire destroyed nearly 200 homes and other structures; its cause remains under investigation.

As I drove home through Sicamouse, BC, almost 2 hours away from Kelowna, it was apparent that a wildfire was also in this area. Smoke began seeping into my SUV. My eyes were burning, and I was coughing profusely. It was the middle of the day, yet it looked like the middle of the night. The gray smoke that filled the air had a red tinge to

it, leaving me with an eerie feeling and uncertain if I should keep driving. Kelowna was declared a state of emergency as thousands were evacuated from their homes. My home on Dilworth Mountain had not received an evacuation alert, so I kept driving.

When I arrived home, all the vehicles were covered with ash, which was falling so heavily that it looked like snow in the air. My neighbors had their sprinklers on to prevent any embers from starting spot fires. When I walked into my house, it smelled of smoke.

This blazing wildfire systematically burnt down houses on

The gray smoke that filled the air had a red tinge to it, leaving me with an eerie feeling and uncertain if I should keep driving.

the west side of Lake Okanagan as it made its way to the Lake Okanogan Resort and burnt it to the ground. There was nothing left. Unfortunately, the winds were extremely high that night, and large embers from the fire at Lake Okanagan Resort blew across the lake to Kelowna, to the Knox Mountain and Wilden areas, very close to where I live, starting fires there. Then, fires spread to the landfill located behind my place. The neighbors told me to stay indoors as large airborne particles were very hazardous if breathed in. The air quality index was off the chart. On a scale of 10, the air was rated 11+ hazardous. As I looked out of my window overlooking the city, I prayed according to Psalm 18:33, You make my feet…as those of a deer, and you help me stand on mountains (CEV). I prayed, Father God, I pray that the firefighters are sure-footed and able to stand firm and strong. Let them know where to go and when to go so they will not be trapped by the fire. Give them your guidance. I thank you, Lord, that I’m safe on this mountain.

‘‘

When I closed my eyes, I could see angels everywhere, assisting in this battle.

When I closed my eyes, I could see angels everywhere, assisting in this battle.

There were reports of explosions, most likely occurring when the fire reached propane tanks. People shared online that the fire made a terrifying, fierce, roaring sound as it burned down house after house in its path.

Residents who fled from their homes painfully watched 105

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

on their house cameras as the fire took their home and their neighbors.

The Kelowna Westbank fire chief reported his appreciation for his men as they battled the violent wildfires with courage and commitment. Despite their own homes being in danger, they never stopped fighting for others. As they fought, 13 firefighters from Wilson’s Landing Fire Department, including the fire chief, lost their homes. One firefighter was scheduled to participate in his Canadian citizenship ceremony during this time but chose to stay and fight the wildfires, so provisions were made to hold his ceremony virtually, behind the fire line.

opposite direction, but it was the same situation. She was trapped. She decided to run a few streets over and get into the lake. She was later rescued.

In all that chaos and danger, not one life was lost. And not one firefighter or first responder was harmed.

It is so amazing how people came together to help each other in times of crisis. Many were donating food, clothing, and water and offering their homes to people who were displaced. Some restaurants gave meals to the firefighters and first responders. Green Bay Bible Camp canceled its summer kids camp and offered to take in 300 evacuees for free. There were so many more humanitarian acts.

not one life was lost.

I was so encouraged and thankful to hear that the Women World Leaders were praying for us here in Kelowna. Their words were so encouraging to me, and it warmed my heart to know that sisters in the Lord from other nations were praying for us.

One lady explained that she didn’t pack when she got the evacuation alert, thinking she would have time to put a few things in a bag when the order came. When it did, she took her time, even making a phone call.

When she finally got in her vehicle to leave, the road she planned to exit on was in flames, so she went in the

Through it all, God spoke to me about His fire, a purifying and refining spiritual fire. God has a fire coming, a purifying of the heart, to bring holiness back to this confused world. This year, the wildfires were global. I sensed God saying His desire is for a global holiness movement. Praise our God, who is in control.

In all that chaos and danger,

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A Heartfelt Thank You To our sister and friend, Kelly Williams Hale. 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 Kelly 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.

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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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