Womens frontline magazine may 2015 issue nr 11 issue nr 11

Page 1

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE

magazine

JUNE 2015 ISSUE NR 11

FREEDOM IN WORSHIP SNIPPETS THE ROAR OF A THOUSAND WATERS DEAR JESUS

ABORTION FROM SHAME TO VICTORY ARE YOU THE BRIDE OF CHRIST Run with the visio n

KUDZIE G. PHIRI

I AM KINGDOM


t


New Season 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. Isaiah 43:19 Hildah Lunding Founder&Publisher WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

Summer is in the air, and with it comes a new season with a new fragrance. Nature has a way of Gather all the strength that you have preparing us for the new season, be it left and try one more time. The one winter, summer, autumn or spring. who promised sure is faithful. For some, it has been a long period of winter blues, where everything has been cold and gray. Yet underneath the surface, a new life has been preparing to spring forth and change the course of our lives.

It is a time to leave the shame, secrets, hurts, hangups, bad habits, resentment and guilt behind. They will not determine who you are, and they cannot determine what you become. Just shake them off!

The enemy would have us think that it will never end, causing us to sink deeper into a stance of depression. However, the enemy does not have the final say in your situation, God does. He is causing us to walk in a new season and giving us a new fragrance, a new anointing.

God is already doing a new thing in your life. Embrace it and let the Holyspirit lead you through every twist and turn, as he creates a river in the desert. I hope you enjoy our new issue this month. Our cover face is Kudzie G. Phiri, a prophetic singer and psalmist from my own country Zimbabwe. Thank you for your love and support! Love you all!


44

30 6 Snippets 8 Choices choices choices 12 Dear Jesus 16 Interview with Kudzie G. Phiri 24 My Aoration for love 26 Run with the vision 30 Abortion 38 The roar of a thousand waters 40 Worship is a lifestyle 44 Finding your place 46 A pure kind of worship 50 Perception '52 Are you the Bride of Christ 56 The ultimate flight 58 Dare to be different 60 Freedom in Worship

54

in this issue

24


contributing writers

16

Pearl Dua Ghana Shelly Wilson, USA Rebekah Chamblee, USA Misty Black, USA Hildah Lunding, Denmark Constance Cooper, USA Mary Eisenacher, USA Kudzie Phiri, Zimbabwe Delisa Lindsey, USA

40

58

26 women*s frontline magazine


SNIPPETS Arise! My eyes search to and fro, looking for a people that hear my voice and walk according to my ways. For in these last days, I have end time assignments that need to be accomplished. I am searching for a generation that is not afraid, one that will walk boldly and loosen the chains that are keeping my people bound. Let those that hear my voice move forward in rank and take this end time gospel to my people. I live and will sustain you wherever I send you. Do not be afraid. Arise my people, pick up your sword and fight.

Listen!

6

that they will ask for anything in my name and I will immediately release it My child, listen to what I say, do not waver into their hands. I will give you to the right or to the left. For I am with you everything to advance my kingdom. So do and will sustain you. Have I not said that I not look back child, let the wind of my will never leave you nor forsake you? Spirt carry you to many nations. Yield to my spirit, He will show you things to come. Do not be disappointed if they Invite my Spirit to carry you and show you do not come in the way you expected what I have prepared for you. It is a them, I work in different ways than yours. marvellous time for my children, those I am God Almighty and my hand is upon who are faithful to me and are called by everything I ask you to do. Now yield to my name. my spirit, be still and know that I am God. Quieten your soul and reach out to a My Father has prepared treasures for higher place that I have prepared for you. them, and they will unpack them along For I am Alpha and Omega, the Author and the way. The road may look tough, but be Finisher of your faith. I will pick you up of good cheer for I have overcome! Indeed when you fall or when you think that you this is a season of new release of an cannot do it. I will send my Angels to Anointing to my children, and an prepare the way for you. You will be fully Anointing that will break every yoke and absorbed in me as I reveal my plans to destroy all firey darts of the enemy. All you. Thats why I want you to yield to me, this is free, you just need to invite me in spend time with me, and I will show you when I knock. great and mighty things. I am standing by your door. Will you open For a season is falling upon my children it and let me come in?


WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE Voices! We have reached an hour when we should earnestly ponder on whose voice we are listening to. God spoke that..'my sheep hear my voice and they follow me..' In the wake of so many conflicting voices, people are getting so confused that they are affected by what they hear. The bible says many will faint, I guess from fear, and will turn away from God and pursue other solutions. Unfortunately, those worldy solutions will not last. Only the words of God can sustain us in this time we are living in. Without a spiritual compass in our lives we will be swept away by anything that we hear. The word of God is His voice. --------------------------------------------

Thief! Recently I had a dream in which a thief walked in through the front door which was not locked at all. At that moment I was standing on an elevated floor looking down at this 'thief.' As I continued to look, I noticed that the thief was being very careful, looking around making sure that there was no-one home. Suddenly I started to scream 'thief, thief, and of course the thief run out. I pondered and asked God what this meant. Here is what i discerned from God: It looks like we are so busy securing our homes and making sure that there are no intruders that can come in, that we neglect to secure our spiritual life against any form of intrusion. The dream represents our lives that have an open door for the thief to enter. God wants us to shut the door to anything that is not pleasing to him or anything that is distracting us from paying attention to him. The bible says in John 10:10 that 'the thief comes to kill, steal and destroy, but Jesus came to so that we may have life and have it abundantly. WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

7


In this world, we are faced with so many choices. Everyday, we make choices; to get out of bed, what to eat, and how we will spend the day. As we make the choices, we learn to live within certain boundaries. We all have a spectrum of knowledge that we have acquired along the way. For some, that knowledge has become the very core of their existence and remains inseperable. Each and every choice we make is very important and we will eventually see the consequences of each choice. Choices help us to have a clear understanding of self and others. We learn to understand the important areas in our life so we can respond accordingly, when faced with challenges.

It may seem daunting at first, but a choicee is finally made.

the bible says, ''then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve''. Joshua 24:15,

There goes that word again! Choose! I can't help but wonder why God preferred to use this word. I believe he knew that there would come a time where we would be bombarded with so much choice that we will need to be anchored to the truth and all of its substance. Many in his time were already being faced with many choices of worship and doctrines. Now, God is truth. Some might argue this statement, but we do know that the truth is found in the one who is truth itself. Have these choices become too much for the human mind to Making choices can lead us to take in? How do we make choices that are healthy and make decisions that either build us up? How do we stay true destructive or not. Take a young student who has to ourselves as humans in a world with so many choices? finished school and needs to choose which way to go. What Our help would be to be is it that helps them make the grounded in our faith as christians, knowing that our choice to go in a certain christian faith will sustain us as driection? long as we stay true to it. 8


CHOICES CHOICES CHOICES

By Hildah Lunding

There will also be times were we will have an open window of opportunity and will be required to make quick choices. Our compass beng There are just certain things grounded in faith, and that that we should not allow or faith is found in Jesus Christ. entertain in our lives. Jesus said He made the choice to save that the truth would set us free. mankind and redeem us from What is it we need to be set the curse of sin and death. He free from? Could it be self? could have summoned a legion of angels as the Son of It would appear that, as we live God, but he did not. and make our choices, there will He says in John 10:17-18 always be choices that we ''No one takes it from me, but should not be making. We I lay it down of my own should learn to walk away from accord. I have authority to lay some things; not necessarily it down and authority to take that they are bad for us, but it up again.''This command I because they are not received from my Father." appropriate at that particular Jesus chose to do his father's point of time. will. Once a week my daughter asks me to help her choose what she I pray that we become a can eat in the school cantine. people who will walk in truth We read the menu together and as we remain anchored in the it takes a while before she truth that we have learnt as chooses what she would prefer children of God. to eat. There is a lot to choose from the menu which is challenging for her, so she needs my guidance. Just like we need guidane from the truth.

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

9




Dear Jesus Dear Jesus These are personal notes written by people as they experience different circumstances in their lives. We hope that as you read them, you too, can get inspired to buy a notebook and begin to write your own 'Dear Jesus' notes to our Lord and Saviour. Please feel free to send your own 'Dear Jesus'notes to us. www.womensfrontlinemagazine.org

12


beholding your glory “Please, show me Your glory.” He said, “I will make My goodness pass before you, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before you…” (Ex. 33:18-19) Reading from this passage we can see that Moses had a desire to see God's glory, so he made his request known to God. God in his infinite love not only revealed himself, but also left a life-long impact on Moses. Moses was stunned at the mercy of God as He showed him his glory. We should learn to be a people who speak to God and present what we require of him. God loves to reveal his many personalities to us and will do it as per our request. Beholding his glory will definetly leave us changed for life. pray: Father, we stand in awe of your glory and we ask you to reveal it to us as we commune with you in spirit and in truth. Lead us to the place where we can see your glory and be transformed into your image. amen.

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE www.womensfrontlinemagazine.org

13


by Mary Eisenacher I see the power of being in Your presence. As the enemy attempts to throw fear on me, I come to You, worship, and hear Your reassurances. You wash away the lies that he speaks, his insinuations, and his view of where I stand with You. You are so loving as You speak holy words to me, as You bring the truth to mind, and encourage me to keep standing. The charge You have given me sometimes causes me to question why You have chosen me to do Your will. That thinking is beyond my comprehension, and I know enough to stand in faith that You have chosen me for noble deeds. Yet, You desire to have relationship before anything else. It is such a privilege to know You and spend time with You, precious Jesus. I’m so glad that You aren’t a legalist. Even though You know and desire the best from us, still You love us when our performance falls short. It’s a good thing, because I find myself scattered at times and unsure as to how to proceed with life. When it gets too bad, I know that my only remedy is to run to You – my Strong Tower. Futility in the flesh is what I see; overcoming power by the Spirit is what I want in all instances. You are truly perfecting me.

14

I know there may be some things that it will take a lifetime of Your tender care to complete. I am growing! Studying about Heaven lately has given me an appreciation of life after death. Having to admit that Heaven sounds so good that maybe now would be a good time to go there, You corrected me and told me to stay in what You have charged me to do. So, that excited me too, because I don’t want to waste what You have sown into me. I want to run the good race and finish my course – but not before my time. Old age could present some real wisdom to impart. Oh, now I’m laughing at myself. I know You have a good sense of humor, Lord. I count on it I see You laughing at the enemy’s plans – knowing that You are continually producing overcomers!!! Heaven surely has laughter, and I desire for that to spill over into me. The seriousness sometimes becomes a place of attack when I fall out of the joy of the Lord. Help me! Uphold me, Lord! Tell me some funny things to keep me laughing. Show me how to rebuke the enemy with my own laughter: then You can move on my behalf and do the warfare for me. Ha! Ha! Lord, You are so good!


Dear Jesus When in doubt, spit it out! I’m going to spit out anything the enemy tries to feed me. I’m going to war with Your Word and trust You to keep me safe!!! Feed me, Lord, just what I need – be it meat, veggies, or dessert! I really believe You care about my welfare. So, minute by minute and decision by decision, I’m going to look to You and get into Your presence where there is fullness of joy! Hallelujah! Amen! Dear, Dear, Jesus. Amen

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE 15


INTERVIEW WITH KUDZIE PHIRI

SINGER SONG WRITER AUTHOR

16


Kudzie G Phiri (KGP) is a multi-talented prophetic voice in song. She felt the call for ministry at the tender age of four and has ever since sought to understand the extent of the call. She dabbled in different fields until the call for music ministry became too strong to ignore. She has a dynamic, creative and innovative musical mind and has astute sense and comprehension of the art of music. Kudzie G Phiri has developed a vocal training program titled, 'Do you understand what you are singing?'. This program not only aims at equipping the singer in the technicalities of working the 'gift' and art of presentation but also in the role the 'spirit' plays in music. I caught up with her and did the following interview: WFM Hallo Kudzie, it is an honour and privilege to do this interview with you. Our paths crossed and ever since, we have had so much to share about our

ministries. Kudzie, can you tell the readers a little bit about yourself. Thank you Hildah for this interview, I am honoured and humbled to be a part of the kingdom work you are doing. I am married to a brilliant wonderful man who is both artistic and logical thank God I got someone to understand my eccentric self and helps me balance. I am a creative being I love the creative arts that is mostly music, dance, theatre, art, graphic design, photography, film and animation just to mention a few. I have found a passion in writing songs, music, books, movies etc. I am a worshipper that spells me out more, everything else I do compliments or adds on that. I truly love, reverence and adore the God I serve, my Father Jehovah El-Elyon and I am privileged to be used, anointed, called and blessed of Him.

WFM Would like to share with us, how you came to know what you felt God was calling you to do.. Well where to start..... Honestly I grew up being prepared for ministry, I however didn't know the extent of the calling. I tried running away from ministry, always having excuses as to why not, mainly because I didn't see the big picture yet. As years progressed I could see all my desires, interests and plans were headed towards the path of ministry. Then the Holy spirit ever so gracious to me began to tell me what he wanted of me, the more I yielded, the more he aligned me and revealed more to me. I began to recall again my training as a child, and I began to see who I was and called to be. Though I believe more is to be revealed, its line on line, brick on brick and precept on precept.

at nisi. Nulla lobortis sagittis ligula, nec tristique nisl iaculis a. Proin cursus mi a nunc .

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

17


relationship is quite amazing, even though WFM some songs are from my heart to Him, How would you encourage someone to find mostly He speaks I listen, write and make their calling music under his influence. I believe myself Our desires, passions, likes, gifts, the thing to be His utterance so through music I proclaim and announce His word and bring that pulls us the most often has its footing the glory back to Him whilst ministering to in God's plan for you. My advise is ask the His people. Lord first, then observe yourself and the little tell tell signs because they are there. All of your life has been perfectly planned by our Father and He has also given you the means to discover and work out the plan only if you will seek him, listen, yield and obey. WFM Share with us your relationship with the Father through your music I love my Father and every time I see creation, I see His brilliance, His ingenuity, never ending unfailing love, our Father's benevolence and provision. So in music I have found a way to express all this, whether in the lyrical or actual musical composition, every intricate part layered to fully articulate the nature of our Father. Our 18

WFM You have recently released your second album called I AM KINGDOM. Please tell us about how this album was birthed The I am Kingdom project was birthed some years ago, conceived from Genesis 1:26 when God said let us make man from our own image and likeness. The Lord through confessions I made began to teach me about the true image and likeness of a man as well as the dominion mandate


he gave to man. So in the end everything then came back to the simple confession or realisation that I am Kingdom, why and how? I belong to my creator who is the supreme ruler of the Kingdom and I was made in his image and likeness and I truly am like him. Through the blood of Jesus we now understand that we are reconciled with God our Father and we reign and rule with Christ. So who am I? I am Kingdom!!! WFM How has your music been received in your country Zimbabwe? Like anything new its been received fairly well, most people who have heard the album love the rich sound, the dynamism of the music composition and complexity of the lyrics. WFM I have listened to your whole album and my favourite song is called THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT. Would you explain to us the importance of the blood covenant? As highlighted earlier the blood of the covenant brought about our redemption and our reconciliation with God. This reconciliation also speaks of the reinstatement of the original dominion mandate, our Covenant Right. Hebrews 12:24 says, 'And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. The blood of the covenant speaks on our

behalf, it speaks of the true nature of our Father, even though it was innocently shed unlike Abel its cries Child of the Most High you are free, I paid the price you are restored. There is so much I could talk about on the subject of the blood there is purification, justification, healing, deliverance, reconciliation, redemption, wholeness, restoration, fulfilment, authority, dominion an endless list all through the blood. What I would want you to take from this today is the Blood of the Covenant has ensured your reinstatement and through the blood you are purified, through the blood you are restored to the beginning, his original intent (in the garden of Eden) now take Dominion! WFM What are your dreams and aspirations for your ministry? I suppose like anybody else serious about ministry it would be to be highly effective and influential in the things dear to the Father's heart that He has entrusted me with. I would love to get to the place where I see Jesus lifted up in the earth and true worship rising that is centered on the Father whilst we take our place as his children. So through the prophetic music and teaching ministry, I hope and aspire to see all this come into fruition by transforming lives with the word of God and the ministration of the Holy Spirit.

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE 19


KUDZIE PHIRI WFM Tell us about your prophetic school Prophetic school hmmmmmmmmm that's bold...... it is primarily a school of worship with bias to the prophetic. Maybe you are being prophetic and suppose in some years it will be that. Lol! The school of worship ties in with my vocal training program, 'Do you understand what you are singing?'. My instructor and teacher, the Holy Spirit asked me this question years ago and told me to develop a musical program around it. As the years progressed, the more I understood about the prophetic mantle on my life, he then taught me how it all ties together. So as we teach people on the voice, we go into the specifics of the power of the tongue, the power and anointing a skilled singer wields, the prophetic worshipper, the role of worship in accessing the prophetic, restoration of the tabernacle of David, significance in today's world etc. For the past two years, I was integrating worship in the Vocal Program, but now I am working on actually establishing the School of Worship as a separate entity with its main focus ministry and the subjects that makeup worship. For the past two years, I was integrating worship in the Vocal Program, but now I am working on actually establishing the School of Worship as a separate entity with its main focus ministry and the subjects that makeup worship. WFM How would you encourage others to step out into unknown territory and do what God has called them to do? 20

You know what just step in as long as God has said it, He will see you through it. Our God is faithful, even more so when you are obedient and you totally trust Him. So jump in at His instruction no matter what opposition your way comes as long as God has said then it is well! WFM What is your message to other women today? Women we have to rise beyond our insecurities and become the people God intended for us to be. Putting aside manipulation, malice, greed, envy, jealousy, spite, bitterness, rumour mongering and any other evil we have allowed the enemy to convince us that we are. If you only knew how vital you are to the Father you would treat yourself better, see yourself in the true light, you are not an object of a man's fantasy neither where you created to be bound and live a life of misery. You are who God said you are, in Gen 1:27-28 the Lord creates and releases a mandate to us all. "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him, male and female created he them. In the next verse, the word says, v28: God blessed them, Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth." The blessing and mandate was given to us male and female and generations unborn to time we all make up Man! Rise from obscurity woman, daughter of Yahweh, take Dominion.


kudzie phiri

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

21


hope joy faith


women on the move take their friends with them...

confidence

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

patience

love


A Love That Grows My Adoration For Love I have always had an infatuation with Love, I mean I truly love being in love. I love the way love makes you feel, the way it sounds in your ear. I love the way love smells, the sensation of love is a feeling like no other. I was thinking about love today and I just had to tell love, “I love You”! I mean I love the way you touch my inner most being. When you speak to me all of Your words make me feel so complete.

if I don’t have You! Love Your scent is absolutely exquisite.

I thought I would entertain or even try something new it almost looked like You but the sound could not comprehend You. I sat down to share a meal with love and this love was not the kind that was sent from up above. No it didn’t come descending down like a dove. It just sat around taking up space and when this left love the pain was almost unbearable, the kind that leaves you empty and has a bad taste!

My love, You touch my soul and it is elevated, we touch Heaven and go into secret places.

My identity is complete because You knocked at my door and I said come in, and now this kind of love can never be replaced! I thought I would tell You about how You make me feel Love. You are my source, my inspiration and our daily conversation gives my heart such elation!!!

I have never come to a place that love act differently with every occasion, no You stay the same in every season, You remained faithful, consistent, honest, and always patient! Love if I could show others the way we talk and share with no comprehensible words just unknown tongues we share. Love something I Love, no one is like You, no one in all the want to tell You but when I go to open earth. I looked all over for something mouth my heart fills up with that would treasure me like You do but unspeakable joy an there is nothing that actually there was no substitute. Love could ever compare to our interaction. When I first met You, You were such a Gentlemen, kind and absolutely sweet. People always say they fell in love with Love I’m so lost without You. My time, my someone, but I say to fall means it was a actions and all that I do makes no sense sin, an accident, or love didn’t feel good. 24


by Constance Cooper Like the elderly commercial, I have fallin and I can’t get up. Or like Adam and Eve after the fall we have been paying for that fall since the beginning of time. No My love, I grew in love with You, because it hasn’t stopped growing with You. It keeps getting better and better and gooder and gooder. It gets sweeter and sweeter. It leaves me high and I don’t want to come down, it makes me want to jump, dance and shout! Love I want to sing about You, I love writing to You and about You.

Love when You hung on that cross for me on Calvary, You said I love My child and I have come….So that you might have life and have it more abundant!!! Love Your love is so right, it always settles my longing for love appetite. When I go somewhere else thinking that this is the same kind of love, then I end wounded but You say come here I love you and You shower me with all of heavens love that was prepared just for me.

1 Corinthians 13 say that love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, Love our love never grows out of it is not puffed up; does not behave season, it continues to grow and rudely; does seek it own; it’s not grow. You sometimes have to have long talks about what we need to cut provoked; thinks no evil; does not or prune in order for it to continue to rejoice in iniquity; but rejoices in truth; bears all things; believes all grow healthy and whole, always things; hopes all things; endures all producing the good fruit that was originally planted. I ask myself from things; Love never fails!!! time to time, I really don’t know why Love died for me, love rose for me, You love me like you do. But then because You remind me of who I am love freed me, love saved me, love redeemed me, love lifted me. Love and Who You are. The Lily of the Valley, The Bright and Morning Star, talks to me, love cares for me, love spoils me, love delivered me, Love You are the Great I Am that is Who has faith in me. Love believes in me, You are! love encourages me, love loves me!!! There was nothing I had to do to earn this Love but open up the door to my Thank You Love better known as Jesus for loving lil. Ole` Connie the heart when You knocked, and in way You Love me!!!! came love never to depart. He planted Himself Firmly in my heart!. Love you never had to come looking for where I was but You said I have work for you to do, come here my little love bug!!!

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE 25


by Mary Eisenacher

It all starts with the wake up call - morning praises to God, with focus on whatever vision He has given you. So start your day, and give thanks. Make your peace with God each day, using the Our Father prayer. Each day is a brand new start of what we must view as a wonderful day. Sometimes it needs to be a brand new way.

entirely for Him. We realize it is but another day to serve Him as our God - to be true to Him. In our vision, we and anticipate that He will be faithful to us. Even when we have left Him down, He has forgiven us.

When we’ve left the godly path, He guided us back home to Him. When we have served Him well, He’s welcomed us. His Kingdom Our greeting the Lord is a two- stands, and we are standing with way relationship. We desire His Him joy to be fulfilled. He wants to In order to run with the vision, give us those new ways to live, we need to be established in the Word. We will serve Him, love with guidelines of happy new ways to serve Him. As we greet Him, care for others, and Him, we ask Him to take our day advance His Kingdom. 26


RUN WITH THE VISION '' So start your day, and give thanks. Make your peace with God each day, using the Our Father prayer.''

Lord, let Your kingdom come. to stand for truth, love, Let Your will be done in me. mercy, and grace. As it is in Heaven, Heaven in Let Your will be done in me today. Today is the day for me - to bring to the world a Healing, Deliverance, Light to overshadow darkness. Give me peace, joy, Salvation, and reconciliation. and harmony with You. Yes! I want Your will in my life to be I am running with the vision – Your Kingdom come, Your done, my Savior, my Lord. will be done, on Earth as it is I’m getting ready to run, for in Heaven You, You’re running with me. I’m running with the Word, running with the Truth – A Word Runner for You. I’m willing to fight. You’re fighting for me. It’s my desire WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

27


Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19


WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE


FROM SHAME TO VICTORY

I was raised in a good home with Christian morals and values’, always knowing abortion was wrong and would never be a choice for me, until I found myself unmarried and pregnant at the age of 19. When I moved away from home at 18, I was so naive to the fact that I was desperately seeking the affection and acceptance of a male. My father was a good man; he was a "give the shirt off his back" kind of person and always provided very well for us. Unfortunately, I did not realize until much later in life that what I truly needed was the emotional connection that our relationship lacked. I wanted more than anything, the acceptance and the love of my father.

30

At 18 when I moved from Dallas to Houston I was beginning a journey of what I thought was freedom, while trying to fill the hole in my heart in a relationship and living with a man 16 years my senior. We had met at work, he was on contract and it was just enough time for him to “woo” me and for my life to drastically jump the track. I left home after only knowing him for 3 months, choosing him over my family….because I knew they did not accept my decision. He was a different race, way too old and had already lived a lifetime, being married & divorced with two sons. But ultimately, I felt I was starting over...a new life the way I wanted and I thought I was exactly where I wanted to be. That was until February of 1996 when I found out I was pregnant.

He told me unequivocally it was not time for a baby and we could not and would not have the child. With those words, paralyzing fear set in instantly. I was living in an unfamiliar city, completely estranged from my family and was being manipulated and controlled by a man who I was quickly learning was an alcoholic/drug addict. I felt alone and thought if I did not follow through with what he wanted, I would lose all that I thought I had at the time…him, I was at his mercy. I could not bear to lose the one person that I was convinced accepted and loved me for who I truly was. Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a spiraling downward of the little me I even knew….soon, I would not recognize even that.

I WAS AT HIS MERCY I spent the next couple of weeks of hanging on his every word hoping he would change his mind. I did not pray back then, I was not walking with the Lord and I believed everything that happened in my life was a direct result of something I either did or did not do. So, I tried to be a “good girlfriend” and tried to make him love me even more so he would change his mind….but of course, he didn’t. When I think back now, I can not logically explain why my own convictions, thoughts and feelings did not outweigh his. All I know, is I had become an expert codependant which had begun in my childhood.


by Misty Black I was living in an unfamiliar city, completely estranged from my family and was being manipulated and controlled by a man who I was quickly learning was an alcoholic/drug addict

My mind was sick, my own thoughts were skewed and they were not my own…it had been that way for some time and would continue to escalate. Once I knew what I had to do, I literally became a robot. It was like the switch turned off in my head and even in my heart. I don’t remember feeling anything as I called the numbers in the phone book asking questions and making an appointment. I had become numb in an instant somehow….I guess subconsciously, I knew if I was going to get through this, it was what I had to do. I never looked back, never argued, and never stood up for what I wanted or knew was right, never fought for my son’s life…. I just allowed him to slip out of my womb without ever touching his skin. At the clinic for my “consultation”, I was never told of the affects it would have on me emotionally, spiritually or physically. I was never given the opportunity to see an ultrasound or hear his heartbeat. I was never given any options such as adoption or made aware of any help that was available. Instead, what I was told was that I was nearly 18 wks along and I needed to go ahead and "do this" before it was too late. I honestly do not remember how many days were in between that appointment and the actual day I aborted my son in April of 1996 although, I assume it was only a few. I do however remember the cost being more than we expected because I was so far along that we had pawn a few pieces of jewelry just to gather the money. Wow….looking back now, my stomach twists into knots that only the Lord can undo because my first child, my son’s worth was diminished to a simple transaction at the pawn shop.

No matter how much I‘ve tried, I don't remember much of being at the clinic that day. But what I do is sounds and images that will forever be branded into my mind, my ears, my eyes and my heart. It was routine for them, I was just another name on a chart, another young girl to lie to saying, "It will all be over soon and you will be fine to go on with your life!" One more girl lying on a cot in a room lined with others doing the same while they offered me cookies and juice…I had just had my child ripped from my womb and they offered me cookies and juice!

ONCE AGAIN, MY OWN FEELINGS, PAIN, NEEDS AND PAIN WERE PUSHED ASIDE FOR THE PRIOIRTY OF OTHERS Again, I don’t know how long I was in recovery before I was sent on my way to get on with my life, as if nothing had happened….they weren’t alone, as this is also what my boyfriend thought I should do. After 3 days of missing work because of physical pain and depression that had already set in, his exact words to me were "You really need to get over it already!" Once again, my own feelings, pain, needs were pushed aside for the priority of others. So, on the outside getting over it was exactly what I did, going into instant denial and pushing it so far down I thought it was just a nightmare, not reality. So much so that over the years, I literally questioned myself asking…..did I really do that? And at times, the answer was no…actually believing that I really didn’t. Yet inside, no matter the depth of denial…I would never be the same because along with my baby, a part of me died that day. WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE www.womensfrontlinemagazine.org

31


FROM SHAME TO VICTORY The next year, I married that man who was already emotionally abusive and the abuse continued to escalate. The alcohol, the drugs, the neglect….it was a normal part of our life (for him) and of course I thought I just had to be a better wife…I could make things better if I tried hard enough. The year after we married, my oldest daughter suffered the physical and almost fatal affects from my abortion when she was born premature at 23 weeks weighing 1lb 2oz and given less than a 10% change of surviving. Her premature birth was the result of my incompetent cervix caused from my abortion. Nobody knew my secret; I lied on the medical forms, to the doctors and to my friends/family...nobody knew what I had done.

They told us she would most likely have very little sight, possibly hearing. She may develop cerebral palsy or may never walk or talk. It was all too early to tell the outcome and in 1998, statistics didn’t exist for babies as early as she was. I spent every day of the 114 days in the hospital with her, until she came home a week before her due date still only a little over 5 lbs. Yet, even after she was home and after all she had been through, I had bonding issues that I simply did not understand. In my unhealthy, warped mind I saw her as a reminder of my punishment...more guilt, shame and condemnation…would the cycle ever end!?

She may develop cerebral palsy or may never walk or talk.

Because of the shame and guilt, the condemnation I felt I didn’t tell the doctors that could have possibly caught Two years later, I was on complete bed this issue early enough to prevent her rest with her sister after having a premature birth. I could have lost yet cervical cerclage placed at 13 wks to another child because of the cycle of help prevent another premature birth. death, the lies of the enemy. My During this pregnancy it was suggested daughter suffered the consequences of that I not have any more children, as my my actions....I lay in the hospital bed, cervix probably would not hold up for it. while she lay in the neonatal intensive My second daughter was born at term care unit crying and asking God why?? and healthy after being bed ridden for My thoughts were, I could understand 26 weeks. I noticed right away that I why He was punishing me, but why her bonded with her differently than my she didn't deserve it. Another child that I first. Again more guilt, more questions, longed to touch but couldn’t. She was more not understanding how I could be too fragile for us to hold her for days and such a horrible mother. The tears, crying I watched her tiny body go through myself to sleep...they continued and I multiple surgeries, fighting for her felt I could never be redeemed. Not life….something I had not done for her knowing at the time all of these were brother. I prayed she would live, even if it affects from my decision to abort my meant having physical disabilities. son, a selfish decision based on ignorance and fear that I thought was 32


by Misty Black ''Deep in my heart, I felt like I had committed the only unforgivable sin and I still carried my dark secret'' Twelve years of tumultuous marriage ended in divorced leaving me to deal with the issues of my past. I was now a single mom of 2 girls and had no idea who I was or who I was supposed to be. During the search to find myself and attempt to heal from my abusive marriage, I lost almost a whole person in weight and restored my relationship with God finding peace in a lot of ways, yet there was still something missing. I realized that I still cringed at the "A" word any time I heard it on television or the radio. Deep in my heart, I felt like I had committed the only unforgivable sin and I still carried my dark secret. In a lot of ways, my life began to flourish. I was changing and growing into a glimpse of who God had created me to be. I led women’s Bible studies at church and served as the coordinator for our single moms group, but had resigned to the fact that I would go to my grave with the secret of my abortion, even if it meant that my relationship with God would never be as close as I truly desired. I was willing to sacrifice living in the fullness of Christ and the intimacy I could have with Him in exchange for keeping my secret hidden. I already felt that any time 'that word' was mentioned everyone in the room knew what I had done….all eyes were on me. The thought of anyone knowing what I had done simply terrified me to the core. After all, in so many ways WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

I was still that little girl looking for acceptance. Looking to fill that void which was now a gaping hole oozing with death and lies from satan. So, the last thing I could dream of doing was telling people fearing it would turn them away from me, they would judge me and not certainly not accept me.

I was able to look at her and see the true value and sanctity of every life that God creates As mentioned earlier, even until this point I continued to struggle with bonding issues between my oldest daughter and I. But, after God healed my heart and I accepted His forgiveness and knew my sin of abortion was washed in His blood, I was able to stop looking at my daughter as a reminder of what I had done, but a true miracle and blessing who lights up this world with her presence. I was able to look at her and see the true value and sanctity of every life that God creates and know God has great purposes for that little woman. The first time I held her in my arms and cried tears of true joy and felt a mother’s love that should have been present from the day she was born, was a day I will cherish forever. It was as if that dingy switch that flipped all of those years ago, was flipped back on in an instant and God’s light illuminated the dark places. 33


the dark places. Although she continues to suffer with a few development delays that we expect may last her a lifetime she is a walking miracle and overcame every single one of the odds we were given when she was born, Praise God…He is good!

34

I remained single for almost 3 years until God placed my best friend and soul mate in my life and I remarried in Jan 2009. I met my husband at the beginning of my healing journey and to my own surprise, I told him of my past early on. Never had I felt such an incredible urgency to tell someone my secret, but God was telling me it was time to break the silence. My fear of judgment was still very real and I knew I risked losing him since our relationship was still very new. But my desperate need to move forward was stronger and God had it all in control. To my relief, my husband was completely accepting and loved me every step of the way and was involved in the memorial for Isaiah at the end of the Bible study. He continues to be my greatest support and he prays with me for God’s

movement in our local area and the nation for the eradication of abortion and for awareness and recovery. I have now served in abortion recovery ministry since 2008 and my passion to reach those hurting from a past abortion continues to grow. God has called me to share my testimony, speak out for the unborn in honor of my own son and share the truth about abortion and the affects it has on every single one of us. In addition and more recently, the Lord has graciously given me back my childhood dream of being a dancer....but this time for Him! I am passionately pursing everything He has for me as a dance minister and learning what it means to worship Him with my whole being, in spirit and in truth! “For in Him we live and move and have our being…” Acts 17:28 “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Rev 12:11


by Misty Black

FROM SHAME TO VICTORY

I am married to my best friend, Michael and Momma to two most incredible teenage daughters. I have served in Postabortion ministry since 2008, speaking publicly and facilitating recovery Bible study. My passion to help heal those suffering from a past abortion began during my own healing journey. In April of 1996 I regretfully chose to abort my first child, my son Isaiah Nathaniel. After 12 yrs of living in silence with shame and guilt, suffering numerous symptoms of Post-abortion Syndrome the Lord orchestrated a meeting and eventual friendship between myself and a Bible study facilitator at church and I began recovery classes almost immediately. It took only a few weeks of that class before I knew that God was calling me to help others that were living in bondage from their secret WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

35



WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE


THE ROAR OF

As the children gazed at this amazing sight called Vicotria Falls, I marvelled at the beauty of the sound that this great waterfalls made. Nothing could have prepared them enough as they witnessed the power and authority of the sight that was before them. We stood quietly in the motherland and took in every sound and harmony of the great falls. The rushing sound of this magnificent waterfall kept our eyes fixed on it. My youngest daughter clang to me. For a moment, no words were spoken. The children had no words, despite having prepared them. The sound of the rushing waters was so strong, captivating and powerful, defeaning everything around it. 38

My sister and I watched the children as they gazed and listened to the powerful roar of the falls. For a moment the excitement had died down as they stood still and, gave the falls the respect it commands...'awe'. As for me, I was now seeing the falls with new eyes. Though having seen it many times before, this time was different. It reminded me of Ezekiel. Can you begin to imagine what Ezekiel saw and witnessed? The bible describes the voice of God as the sound of rushing waters.. "and I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with his glory." Ezekiel 43:2


by Hildah Lunding

A THOUSAND WATERS

''We stood quietly in the motherland and took in every sound and harmony of the great falls.''

Imagine that! God's voice is like a thousand waters! I am convinced that the sound of the falls is nothing compared to what Ezekiel saw and heard! "When the creatures moved, I heard the sound of their wings, like the roar of rushing waters, like the voice of the Almighty, like the tumult of an army." Ezekiel 1:24

What we experienced standing before this great falls was not even close to what Ezekiel heard. Later on, having taken in this awesome view, the children spoke...'woooow! Yes, we had prepared them for this 'wonderful sight, but everything we had told them was nullified as they stood face to face with Victoria Falls...the smoke that thunders.

There was no doubt that Ezekiel knew that he was in the presence of a great and What more when we will powerful God. God's voice stand face to face with God! awakened Lazarus from the dead. It has the power and authority to command reverence. WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

39


WORSHIP IS LIFESYLE

A

Are you honouring God in ALL you do or choosing to do so in just some parts? #food4thought Romans 12 vs 1-2 Psalm 86 vs 9 – 10 Psalm 100 vs 2 I have always wondered how it is possible to be so successful in one area and seriously lack in another area. From what I have learnt from NLP training (Neuro-linguistic programming) the art to mastering success is by using tried and tested methods that others have been successful with and then applying that strategy to the problem areas. That is quite a logical approach which in theory should work. However as God’s creation, we are all unique and those differences mean within the Christian walk we struggle in different areas. So we fast and pray, cast and bind and do some more to no avail. The problem is recalcitrant.

40

Here is a solution I have found for obstinate hard to shift problems, W-O-R-S-H-I-P! Now you may well be thinking that worship is what precedes preaching on Sundays and is a Church activity which stays locked up after the service until another Sunday. However here is

my take on it. Worship isn’t just about the songs you sing to Elohim but it’s about your actions – the way you choose to live your life. Worship breaks chains. Worship says I trust my God in all situations and worship says I will wait on Him in spite of all I am going through because I trust in Him.I will be still, knowing He’s got my back! Therefore the solution we may be seeking is not necessarily a problem with our application of biblical steps but the problem is with our worship or lack of it.


By Chantal Norbi-Scott

As I turned my focus on God in desperation and fear, my worship drew out my angst in elationships and calm descended. Daily provocations lost their ability to hurt as I reacted in a totally different way. My response became less combative and gradually I was in control of my reactions and the outcomes of situations. Many of us see Jesus like a plaster; we apply him on a small area like a cut even though our lives are riddled with disease. I have recently come to understood that God didn't come to bridge the gap between our shortcomings WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

As long as you alive you will experience trials and tribulations at some point in time. Using myself as an example, I do really well in business and I am naturally smart. However, when it comes to everyday relationships I am a bit of a robot. I know what deals will bring me the most profit in my business but I don't invest much in friendships and relationships due to past experiences. Friends, family, you name it were all fraught with problems. I made foes of all at the drop of a hat. At a point in time my biggest fear was that one day I was going to possess everything but have nobody, a very lonely life. And that's where worship came in. 41


And that's where worship came in. As I turned my focus on God in desperation and fear, my worship drew out my angst in relationships and calm descended. Daily provocations lost their ability to hurt as I reacted in a totally different way. My response became less combative and gradually I was in control of my reactions and the outcomes of situations. I didn’t set out to change others but remained in worship to change my focus. So what set out to be a problem lost its edge with the difference in my reaction. Many of us see Jesus like a plaster; we apply him on a small area like a cut even though our lives are riddled with disease. I have recently come to understood that God didn't come to bridge the gap between our shortcomings. He came to completely remove the gap and give us, His children full restoration. Meaning we can be completely free from whatever problem we are facing. Once you come to Christ you don't have to live half empty, we can be full and overflowing but it is up to us not o hinder God’s capabilities with our lifestyle choices. Our lives must reflect worship! Being 20 something, a few weeks away from being an official graduate and no longer having a set schedule has really got me thinking. 42

WORSHIP IS A LIFESTYLE After the first week of being at home more than usual I started feeling disappointed that I didn’t have a full time job even though I only applied for only a handful. My problem was Lord, what happened to the great future you promised me? Maybe God would have replied back saying Chantal, have you been praying about it? I don’t know because I wasn’t praying but I was wasting my time being upset, watching reality TV and worrying about the future and this is what lead me to worship, as a lifestyle. Where in my life was I showing the art of worship? And where could I be showing this more? This brings us to the meaning of Worship. What is worship? The dictionary explains worship as the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for God. Expression is the action of making known one's thoughts or feelings. Therefore to worship God is to adore or reverence Him through your actions. To be in constant worship with God is to remain in reverence before, during and even after Church on a Sunday. From one Sunday to the other you remain in awe of God, respecting and honouring Him. You need to have a one to one individual experience of Him. So the troubles come and we are relentless in worship. The trials follow and we dig our heels in, in worship. The bad hair days arrive and unfazed, we breathe worship.


'My problem

was Lord, what happened to the great future you promised me?''

Worship can be done in so many ways such as… by Chantal Norbi Scott

? Praying, ? Studying the word, ? Singing and praising God, ? Spending time with God in the secret place, ? Paying your tithe and offering, ? Meditating on God and just remaining in His presence. Finally, the meaning of the New Testament Greek word most often translated “worship” (proskuneo) is “to fall down before” or “bow down before. John 4:23 says, “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks”. It is not possible to be in worship by our own might with the vagaries of life and all it throws at us but we can do so through the power of the Holy Spirit. Our comforter the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, empowers us to do all things. Let us be 24/7, 7 days a week the type of true worshippers God yearns for and watch the problems areas become less significant as we focus on Him.

Prayer Father we thank you for who you are. You are holy, mighty and worthy to be praised! We thank you for the world you created for us to live in and we thank you for our lives individually. We apologise for the times we have been myopic and obsessed by our problems and difficulties. We ask for forgiveness. Today, we are making a decision to come back to the heart of worship and focus on you Jesus! We thank you for your mercy and your grace which helps us. May our lives please you as we walk in line with the plans you have for us in the name of Jesus We will cross the finishing line and make it back home to you. Amen! 43

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE


FINDING YOUR PLACE by Rebekah Chamblee

Everyone knows that when you are a teenager you are unstable and trying to find your place in the world, but it is a bit different finding your place in God’s kingdom.

All you know is that each decision you make can be guided by God. It’s scary to take a step without knowing where you are going. But then again you gave your life to Finding your place in God’s Jesus so why wouldn’t you trust kingdom is a fork in the road at Him? Because we were all born in any age. Where is your place in sin, but given a second chance at God’s kingdom? Are you out being sinless. It is because of that fighting the battle, or are you just same sin that we cannot find our sitting on the sidelines waiting place in God’s kingdom. We think for your turn to make a we don’t deserve a place. difference? Life just has a way of getting in front of what is truly important doesn’t it? What does God have in store for your life?

44

Jesus died on the cross so that we could be free from sin, but we still feel weighted by it. Our rightful place in God’s kingdom is by His side in the throne room. Not out fighting the battles, or sitting on the sidelines.


'My life will be different when she leaves for school. No fun, no games with my sister when I am done with my work'..

Sure, we may be stubborn and not go into the throne room or insist on fighting our own battles before being with Him. Sometimes we are too shy and not willing to be with Him for fear of what He might say about our sins. God wants us to be with Him, sitting in the throne room. What better place to be than to be talking to God? Throw all your worries away; there won’t be room for them in the kingdom! Stop fighting your own wars and just ask God for help. Even though God made us in His own image it doesn’t mean you are superwoman. Be at peace. God loves you. Life sure hasn’t been easy for me lately. My older sister is now 18 and might be heading off to college soon. I will be alone in the house most of the time. WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

My life will be different when she leaves for school. No fun, no games with my sister when I am done with my work. I will be alone, with the enemy messing with my mind. It will definitely be a few hard years before I head off to college. The only thing that will keep me okay is talking with God, knowing that my sister will be alright and that I will be okay even when she is gone. My place is with God by His side, not wallowing in my own problems. Turn your cares and worries over to Him and just hug Him. If you need immediate help seek fellow Christians and pray together so that you can get your burden lifted. What’s your place in God’s kingdom?

45


A PURE KIND OF WORSHIP When we live a lifestyle of worship unto the Lord, we live a God centered life. Our will becomes the will of God. This is a place where we usher into the secret and intimate place with God. A place where we surrender all of our will and completely accept purity of our heart and let God's will be done. This truly is a place of worship unto the Lord. When we let the spirit of the Lord lead us, in all truth, in what next our step to take should be, and how to take it.

intimacy we seek after God. The Lord is always willing to get face to face with us, and up front and close to us. The Lord delights in spending time with us. He longs for us to fellowship with him, this is a place of worship unto the Lord. We shoulld look for answers in God*s word and in the leading of the spirit of the living God. Our little is much to God, in every effort we make to pursue after the heart of God, it all counts and overflows.

We should discipline ourselves and It can be a place of waiting on the set time aside for God,in order to timing of God. While waiting, it can have an appointment with destiny. be a season of testing, to build our The Lord is waiting for us to meet our trust in God, and to walk by faith and appointment with him at every time. not by sight. There is a place of When we need to hear the voice of completely trusting in the leading of God, we can ask him to make himself the Spirit of the living God. A Place known. We can ask God to reveal to where God is ordering our steps, himself in each season of our lives. and directing our path each and There must be a longing for more of every way. God every moment. We can never get enough of God, because there is This is a place where we must be always more that God keeps pouring quiet and still to hear the voice of into our lives of himself. We must be God. A place of completely sensitive to receive from the Lord. depending on God. Humble yourself The more we chase after God, the before the mighty hand of God. The more we will see the glory of God place where we seek God, and seek being revealed. his will in all endeavors of life. We seek to find God continually, and in 46


by Joy Jallah “The more we chase after God, the more we will see the glory of God being revealed. �

Worship the Lord in spirit and in truth. When we pour all of our hurts, pains, discouragement and everything that bring us joy at the feet of Jesus. We begin to just let God know what is a concern upon our heart, and surely after being with God. It will bring life into our lives. God will take us and walk with us every side of the way. We become confidence in the things of God even more, especially in the communication with God through worship. Our lifestyle of worship is having a thankful heart in the hard times or the time of our life.

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

Finding purpose in it all, and manifesting the very purpose of God upon our lives. Let everything that have breathe praise the Lord. A place where find rest. A place a safety & complete joy. The place that we enter in the presence of the living God. A place where we are so thirsty and hunger for more of God. Thank God begin to fill us with more and more of himself. Always know the place in the secret place with God refresh us, renew us, and empower us. The book of Psalms says ''Hide me under the shadow of the Almighty''. We must be willing to be hidden in God so that we cannot be found by the enemies against the will of God upon our lives. 47



all good gifts come from the father

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE


PERCEPTION I realised that I viewed music some

what from a graphic design perspective that is I see it all through the world of colour. Though the two disciplines are different they have similar principles which at times have varying meanings. E.g. tone, texture and colour though they all have universal meanings, in terms of application in both disciplines may differ.

So what is it that has caused you to either see the world in colour or black and white? Which colour spectrum are you using? Is it a predefined pallet or ambiguous? whichever way you look at it something has shaped your perspective. So why not decide on your own what colour you choose to see the world through your eyes.

Texture in design most times refers to smoothness or coarseness of Don't become a victim of objects, whilst in music circumstances you have the composition it rather refers to the power to shape your own mind density of a piece depending on its and determine the moulders in instrumental structures. However your life. to another texture may refer to the tone and colour of a voice, again its ''Is it a pre-defined pallet or all how you choose to see it.

ambiguous?''

''though two disciplines are different, they have similar principles''

How? The word says..As man thinketh in his heart so is he.' Without going deep into the power you Most times we all view the world possess lets be open and frank. differently based on what has shaped our perspective. They call The way you think of you or life will always determine your them the 'moulders' or molding factors in your life based on either speech and actions which in turn indoctrination or life experiences. have a cause and effect on everything you do and become. 50


by Kudzie G. Phiri '' I realised that I viewed music some what from a graphic design perspective; that is, I see it all through the world of colour.''

You have to Re-wire your mind, re-align your spirit and being to thinking like your creator. Why??? Because everything in your life hinges upon Him. We often look at life and think it has no connection with Him, I heard some say there is sunday/church and then there is life. There is no difference, the life of God revolves around him, as a fish cannot survive outside water, so your spirit and being cannot survive outside of Him. How is this? You are made in his image and likenessandyouarejustlikehim. Re-align, let him re-calibrate your thoughts and the moulders in your life.

Say this prayer with me: Father I come before your throne of grace and mercy acknowledging that I am a sinner, I have fallen short of your glory. Lord Jesus come into my life, be my Lord and Saviour. Lord Holy Spirit, be my instructor and teacher. Father re-align, re-calibrate and re-wire me so that I can be more like you and see the world through your eyes. Remove the scales from my eyes and the wax from my ears I commit to you this day and I am yours. In Jesus' name Amen! Walk in the newness of life and see the world through his eyes.

You have never known him? WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE www.womensfrontlinemagazine.org

51


ARE YOU THE This morning my son, Brady, and I were driving to school. I heard the Lord begin a poem and asked Brady to grab my phone and start typing…little does he know his significance in these moments. Faithfully, he went to typing. I would love to grin at the memory of this moment but the seriousness of what Christ spoke is worthy of refraining from comedic ploys and antics of any sort. This is a life or death word for someone. May it go deep Father and penetrate the hardest of hearts…the unsuspecting one who believes contrary to your Word…this one or more that you love so very much. You see, I am the little girl that walked down an isle and professed Christ in a church in my youth. Yet, realized at 30 I was never born again. An authentic conversion experience is truly supernatural. There is a yearning, a drawing to Christ and His heart. There is also a realization at the lack in your life…the sin that needs to be washed away. The need to begin again. You truly do become a new creation..a new person. The old things pass away and the newness is evident. It took me some time for Christ to work out of me that which needed changing. However, there was now Him living in me and He would bring conviction for the things I watched on television, read in books, participated in with others.. or even when I was alone. Dare I say…if we never have any conviction of the Holy Spirit…then maybe He does not live within us..

52

It was quite a humbling experience to walk back down a church isle years later when everyone around you..including yourself…thought you were a Christian..i.e. “saved.” “Going to heaven”…yet the truth is..I was destined for hell…which is, yes, a real place. The Lord speaks more about Hell than Heaven in His Word. He longs for none to go there. Many I meet seem to believe in Heaven yet not hell…this cannot be. Many I meet believe in Christ yet they do not believe He is the only way to salvation and Heaven. This too is not true. If this is a belief of someone..then they have not been born again as a child of God. You see, you can’t serve two masters. You are either for Him…or against Him.

''Many I meet believe in Christ yet they do not believe He is the only way to salvation and Heaven'' Goodness and honorable ventures and service do not mean that you have been born again.. Being born again means you have been supernatural touched by a living and holy God and you have given your life to Him..to be lived according to His Word and purpose. He says “if you love me…you will obey me.” So…if we don’t obey Him…then we do not love Him. No, it doesn’t mean we do this perfectly..but He knows it’s our heart to obey Him.


By Shelly Wilson

BRIDE OF CHRIST Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me.” Many I meet believe in God…just not Jesus as the only way. In this…they have not been born again and are not Christians. To authentically carry the title of “Christian” means you are a follower of Christ. Many other religions where there is no living God, only dead idols, believe in some sort of god. Yet they are not saved, Christians, born again..nor will they be in Heaven as Christ separates each one who stands before Him upon judgement day. This is a day that will be escaped by no one. See clearly today that there is no relationship with the Father God without one with Christ the Son. Christ the son was sent by Father God …took His place on a cross as the weight of every sin (yours, mine, the world) poured upon Him…He is the bridge to the Father on our behalf. Because He paid our debts…we have access to the throne as heirs with Christ. Without Christ..there is no salvation…no Heaven… ''To authentically carry the title of “Christian” means you are a follower of Christ''

' For me, it was a painful valley where desperation caused me to cry out for Him''

Careful not to think this word “believe” is casual. For even the demons “believe” in Christ. They know their time is limited. You must give your life over to Christ in order for Him to give His over to you. This means your life is no longer your own. You are now telling Him your life will be ALL He meant for it to be. It may mean you have to leave behind many ways, people, and things that do not glorify the Lord. Your life is now a life of sacrifice to and for Him. You are giving Him free reign to accomplish with and through you His plan..not your own. You have given yourself to Him to reach a lost and dying world with your gifts, your talents, and the spiritual gifts He places in you as the Holy Spirit moves into your physical body…you are now a temple to a holy God..and are desiring to live as such as He helps you honor Him with your life.

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

53


shelly wilson

Then friends..the beautiful adventure of a life with Christ…our risen Savior…who paid the debt we could never pay…has begun. Everything in your past will pale in comparison…. May His word love you to Him..convict you to Him…chase you as far as you run from Him. I can speak from experience…He loves you enough to do whatever He needs to do to bring you to Himself. He wants you as His bride. For me, it was a painful valley where desperation caused me to cry out for Him. With one cry…He came..and the rest is history…Halleluyah!

54


ARE YOU THE BRIDE OF CHRIST Are you the bride of Christ? Adorned with royal robes Clothed with raiment white A resurrected soul? Again, have you been born Of Supernatural kind Where drawn by Father’s love A Savior you did find. Are you the bride of Christ? Surrendered all to Thee Or when the veil is pulled A shocking thing is seen? Does Thy Holy Spirit Live and breathe in you? Are you now a temple Where Christ resides in you? Does fruit show signs of life Given to The CHRIST? Or do you dabble still With worldly ways and thrills. Remember in His Word The truth shall set us free Until you’re born again A bride you cannot be… Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

55


THE ULTIMATE FLIGHT

On my husband's 63rd birthday, he fulfilled a dream. His dream was to parasail; to fly in the wind in a manmade flying machine. As our Texas family drove to the grounds were this event would take place, I began to think of the ''ultimate flight.''

Our Holy Bible tells us in the King James Version of I Thessalonians 4:16-18

(16) For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout with the voice of the archangel and with the trump of God and the dead in Christ When we got there, my husband was: shall rise first (17) Then we which are a) authorized by the staff to take him up alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to b) briefed on his impending experience meet the Lord in the air and so shall we ever be with the Lord (18) Wherefore c) suited up and strapped in for take-off comfort one another with these word. As we look at his experience, we too have to be ready for the “ultimate flight'' a) Our authorization is accepting Jesus Christ as our personal savior.

As we look at Pauls’ writing to the church at Thessalonica, we have the hope and assurance that – one day – we will take an “ultimate flight” to a place already prepared for us. Waiting on us will be our Lord and those loved ones that

b) The Word briefs us on our impending Jesus is returning, will you be ready to journey go back with him? c) We are set on a course prepared by God d) We are settled and have peace because of his promises 56


by Terry Bailey

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

57


DARE TO BE DIFFERENT I was in a leadership class sometime this year and we were given a group assignment with the title Dare to be Different. We all worked seriously on our assignment and had to do a presentation on it. Same topic but different people. There were seven groups and each group had a completely different contents from the other and the presenters also had their own unique way of presenting. This shows that we are all children of God but differ in our thinking, in our mannerism, in our speaking and in our actions.

as a compliment since I have handsome brothers, I took it negatively. Looking back now at my pictures, I see a really pretty girl who didn’t have a clue that there was beauty in her. Although I am a fully grown woman now, I realise that I still have issues. I feel I am not outspoken, I don’t like the sound of my voice when my recordings are replayed, my arms are too big etc etc. Getting involved in women’s ministry has thought me many lessons. I come across people who look at me and think I am all well-put-together.

Some tell me I am very eloquent and they wished they were as brave as I am. In dealing with the topic, most of us Of course they don’t know I have to because it was a leadership class take some water to calm my nerves looked at it from the point of view of before I climb the podium or at times people who dared to be different and how shaky my legs get. I have learnt made a mark, like Caleb and Joshua, that indeed there is Joseph, Daniel, David and many nothing new under the sun and the others in the bible. In this article I am problems we think we have, someone taking a different angle. God made else has it ten times over. We have to each of us differently. We all have learn to turn the supposedly negatives different attributes and personality we have into positive. 2 Corinthians types. Whether a Sanguine, Choleric, 12:10 says “when I am weak, then I am Phlegmatic, or Melancholy, we all strong”. My favourite mantra is “I can have positive and negative traits. do all things through Christ who gives When I was growing up, I had so me strength”. many hang-ups about myself. I didn’t think I was beautiful. Many people said I looked like my brothers and I translated that as looking like a boy. Instead of taking it 58


by Pearl Dua I read about Chantelle Brown-Young, the young Canadian model who is suffering from Vitiligo and has white patches on her face and body. Chantelle who at one time had suicidal thoughts became a finalist in American Top Model and is now a professional model. Her insecurity which was an embarrassment to her initially is now her selling point. Most people are now looking beyond the defects and are now admiring her talent and bravery. 1 Corinthians 1-26-31 says that God deliberately seeks out weak things and the despised things because it is from them that He can receive the greatest glory. Elisha asked the widow of Zaraphat what she had. The widow had only a small flour and oil which she was going to eat with her children and then wait to die for lack of food. When God stepped in, the little she had was turned to plenty. God has given each and every one of us talents or gifts. Let’s focus on the gifts we have and use them to the glory of God. No matter the affliction, remember that you are the apple of God’s eye. Man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7

women's frontline magazine

How is your heart? What does God see when He looks into your heart. Does He see a heart that is desiring to be someone else and God has made you in His perfect image? Do you feel weak, ordinary or fearful, then you are the perfect candidate for God to use for His own grown. Trust Him. Bill Hybels to puts in a way I like. “God’s power working through us is breathtaking, God’s potential working in us is unlimited, and God’s love spilling over from us knows no bound.” Dare to be different in the way you look at yourself. Don’t look at the negatives, dwell on your assets. Let God lead and the negatives will become positive. 59


FREEDOM IN

worship I believe that worship is intimacy with God in the things you do unto Him. There are many ways to worship God and there are no limitations. One way worship is defined is to adore, obey, reverence, and to focus positive attention on. Any action or attitude that expresses praise, love, and appreciation for God. You can worship him in a public or private setting. People that love God honor him in every area of their lives on a daily basis. Worship is like the very air that you breathe, you cant live without it.

without thinking where you are and who's looking. When worship hits your spirit you may find it hard to control yourself. Though the spirit of worship works in people differently it will always bring you into the presence of God. Your worship should not be conditional and should be away of celebrating the love that you have for God.

Through your act of worship things happen for instance, you give more, You must be keen to the spirit of express love openly, use your gifts, God because it provokes you into and reverence Him. You give Him worship. Being keen means that you your best because you want to must be sensitive to the Presence of please him with your worship. You God. When you feel a tugging in your want him to know that you are totally spirit to worship that is God drawing surrendered to the spirit of worship. you into his presence. A strong spirit Worship is something we should to worship will feel like a strong urge strive to be consistent in. to seek God or experience him without limitations. That means 60


by Yolanda Sherman

“When you feel a tugging in your spirit to worship that is God drawing you into his presence.�

him. We must make sure we are not Taking out time to worship God will release Gods manifested glory so busy trying to serve God and everyone else that we neglect the in your life. opportunity to be with God in the I know from personal experience spirit. In my life, when I had some of the that worship is a survival most trying times and I could not mechanism. It should be apart of every believers lifestyle. Worship find the words to say. I fell down will change your circumstance and and worshipped God. When the doctors said that there was no outcome. It will change your position and possession. As in my chance I would live, in my spirit I own life, worship will unveil your worshipped. When all hell was breaking lose in my house, on the purpose while bringing you into the manifestation of the promise. job,, and in my ministry I worshipped. In this hour we must commit to worship and become a true Now, I encourage you to stop where worshipper. you are, even if you have to do it silently in your spirit, worship. It is God is looking for worshippers. Those who desire to worship him. your worship that breaks every chain. Those who want to spend time in his presence and be intimate with

women's frontline magazine

61


And I saw the glory of the God of Israel coming from the east. His voice was like the roar of rushing waters, and the land was radiant with his glory... Ezekiel 43:2

WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE


VICTORIA FALLS ZIMBABWE


LOOSED!

by Delisa Lindsey

They serve to hold us hostage to the place of yesterday and prevent us from moving forward. So many times in life we struggle to reach that place of effectiveness, the These unseen bindings speak to place where our destiny and purpose us out of a cruel tongue. They intersects, because of the unseen arrest us and hold us hostage. strings binding us. There is nothing They put stumbling blocks in our much more uncomfortable than paths and they resist us on every knowing what you are supposed to be hand but thank God for Jesus. He doing and being unable to perform it. has come to loose the bands that hold us. He has untied them and I have felt that way on too many destroyed them through His love occasions and it took deliverance in for us and the power in His name. my mind, soul, and spirit for me to understand that who I am, what God expects of me, and why I feel led to do certain things to advance God’s Kingdom could not be realized until those unseen bands restricting my movements were loosened, untied, and ultimately destroyed. What might those bands be, you may ask. The bands and bindings which serve to immobilize us are too many to recall but just to name a few they are; low self esteem, famine in finances, unhealthy relationships, stunted spiritual growth, declining health, and a weary and worn out mind. These things and so much more are the bands that bind us.

64

Over two thousand years ago, as Jesus made His triumphal entry to Jerusalem, He noticed a donkey and a colt which were bound. Jesus had a redemption plan for that donkey and her colt. He wanted to demonstrate to the entire region that He not only has the power to loose and set free but He also has the power to redeem. Jesus sent a word to the donkey and her colt and commanded them to be loosed. Once they were loosed, He commanded them to serve Him as vehicles of which He would use to announce His coming. I am certain that from that point


''So many times in life we struggle to reach that place of effectiveness ,..'' forward, that donkey and her colt never returned to that place of bondage for whom the Son of Man sets free is free indeed. The season of their bindings had come to an immediate end and they, which were bound, were now being paraded with Jesus for all to see. My friend, as you read this, I speak to your bindings that they be loosed, untied from around your neck, and destroyed in the name of Jesus. That unseen band which has restricted you and held you against your will is being removed. The circumstances that spoke such cruel and mocking language to you will receive the report of the Lord. That report is that you have been loosed. You have been set free by the Redeemer of your soul and no longer will you allow your unseen bands to hinder you from accomplishing all the Father has placed in your hands to do. You are loosed in Jesus name. Amen.

Delisa Lindsey is the co-founder of True Love Church of Refuge and president of PDL Ministries located in Charlotte, NC, USA. Delisa is a prophet who serves the Body of Christ in teaching the word of God through public speaking, social media, seminaries, CDs, and published books. She is the best- selling author of, Displacing Demonic Gate Watchers, along with nine books that are circulating the globe. Saved for over twenty years, Delisa has a passion for the heart of God and longs to see His purposes fulfilled in the life of every believer she meets. Visit her website for more information, http://www.pdlmini stries.weebly.com

WOMENN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

65


WOMEN'S FRONTLINE MAGAZINE

For more visit www.womensfrontlinemagazine.org

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED @2015WOMENSFRONTLINEMAGAZINE


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.