Honey Bee Press A newsletter brought to you by the Women on the Wall in loving memory of Annette “Honey” Grant
October—December 2014
Volume 4, Issue 1
The Honey Bee Press would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you for supporting us for the last 3 years. When Death Called—by Tamara L. Dean
Inside this issue: Featured Poem: Experiencing the Miraculous
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A Note From Our Founder
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Featured Article: The Breakthrough Featured Article: When You 4 Come to the End of Yourself Honey’s Reading Corner Honey’s Recipe Corner
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Featured Article: Peace Vs. Distraction Encouraging the Singles
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Marital Bliss Honey’s Recipe Corner
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Featured Article: The Sun 8 Appears After a Heartbreak Dr. Lee’s Prescription for a 9 Productive Year Do You Want to Know Him 10
We would love to hear from you. Are you being blessed by the newsletter? Is there a topic you would like addressed?
I was at work when my sister called and said, “Daddy has cancer, and the doctor is giving him only six months to live.” It was June 1996. I left work, jumped in my car, and drove an hour to Lansing, MI, from Detroit screaming and crying all the way there. I refused to believe that my dad had just received a death sentence. Once I arrived to Lansing, my mom, who was the epitome of strength at such a weak time in all of our lives, gave me the run down about the doctor’s plan to start chemotherapy and what we should expect going forward. The next few months were an emotional rollercoaster. With each passing month, my dad’s health spiraled downhill. The hardest part of it was seeing my dad, who was a man on-the-go, stripped of his ability to walk. The cancer had spread to his bones. I watched his now frail body struggle to use a walker to get from the bedroom to the kitchen. I remember walking behind him thinking, “That is NOT my dad! My dad is outgoing; he rides motorcycles, he lifts weight, he is strong, and he tinkers with cars.”
or leading up to it. I replied with one word…, “Ok.” Then I hung up the phone. I sat down on the edge of my bed, very somberly and without any feeling of sincerity I said, “Lord, I love You. I praise You.” I took a deep breath and finished off with, “and I magnify Your name.” Then I cried. The next morning I was rejoicing! Yes, you read it right. Rejoicing! Weeping may have endured for a night, but joy did come in the morning (Psalms 30:5). What happened? How could I praise God in the midst of such a tragic loss? Shouldn’t I have been blaming God, wondering how He could have let this happen? Why didn’t He heal my dad? Why did my dad have to die? Remember Job, in the bible, when all of his kids died a tragic death, his cattle was burned up, his sheep was stolen, his health failed him and yet, in all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly (Job 1:27). As a matter of fact he said, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust him:” (Job 13:15). No matter what you face, no matter how difficult it may seem at the time, no matter how tragic the loss, you must trust God enough to yet praise Him. But, I lost my mother. Praise Him anyway! My child was murdered. Praise Him anyway! I lost my job and now I am about to lose my house. Praise Him anyway! My spouse walked out on me. Praise Him anyway!
On October 26, 1996, after giving my dad a kiss goodbye and telling him that I loved him, I left the hospital and drove back to Detroit. Shortly after I arrived back, the phone rang and it was my sister calling to deliver news I dreaded would come one day. “Tammy, daddy died.” The best way for her Sacrifice is the act of giving up to say it was just to say it. There something you desperately want was no beating around the bush to hold on to. Sacrifices test your
strength, willingness, and loyalty. Are you able to still praise God regardless of the situation? Is He or is He not God at all times in your life? I responded to the news that my dad had returned home to the Lord, by first praising God. As a result, I believe God got right in the middle of me and the pain. His joy became my strength. Did I still hurt? Did I shed tears? Yes, and that’s ok. There is a time to mourn, but there is also a time to move on. You cannot become stuck in regrets, or what could have or should have happened. You still have a life of purpose that must be fulfilled. You must live on. Others are counting on you. When Moses died, the people mourned for 30 days and then it was time to move on. His successor, Joshua, was in place, and God had instructed him to continue the journey over the Jordan, which Moses was leading before he died. Just because Moses was dead didn’t mean God was dead. He is alive and waiting on you to cross your Jordan. He has equipped you to get to the other side of your grief. Here are a few reminders to help you along: 1. Keep praising God! When every strong force seems to be against your mind and emotions, sacrifice and release words of praise to God. Don’t hold on to your perceived right to be bitter or angry. Give it over to Him by praising Him. 2. Be thankful—I was 26 years old when my dad died, but I found the strength to say to God, “Thank you
We would like to stand with you in prayer. There is so much power in agreement and prayer. The enemy tries to make us feel like we are alone in this journey when in fact there are many of us that are going through the same thing. The Women on the Wall believe that “sisters need sisters.” We need each other to survive. In the kingdom, when one of us suffers, we all suffer. We want you feel the weight of the prayer pushing you forth in your calling. Send us your prayer requests and know that we will lift you up. No prayer request is too small or too big. Email us at 1wownews@gmail.com.
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When Death Called continued... for the 26 years I had with my dad. Some had less than that. Some didn’t know their father at all, but I had the privilege of having him in the same household and for that Lord, I thank You.” There will always be something to be thankful for. 3. Mourn for a season, not for a lifetime— Despite what we may have lost, we were created to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might (Ephesian 6:10). You were built to handle whatever comes your way. Don’t spend your life dying, live for God. 4. Your loved one is in your future—If you are a born-again Christian, and so was your loved one, then they are in your future. You will see them again. They are still living!
They just live elsewhere right now. It’s supernatural, but I have never felt my dad’s absence. He was alive in my heart and I found comfort in knowing that I will see him again. 5. Don’t blame God—Fix your mind to believe that NEVER will God be the problem. Whatever happened, it wasn’t because God failed. He NEVER fails. Somewhere along the way someone may have missed it, but it was not God. 6. Forgive—Forgive all who may be the reason for your pain, including yourself. Unforgiveness will clog the path to your healing. It will root in your heart slowly destroying your health.
7. Know that God loves you—What can separate you from the love of God? Nothing! His love will guide you to the other side. You will rejoice again. So, if death ever knocks on the door of your family know this: the corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory. But thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:54-55,57). In the end, we ALWAYS win!
Experiencing the Miraculous—by Rev. Letrice Weaver Sometimes the very thing that we prefer not to happen, God allows and despite us, God’s will is perfected in our lives. ~Rev. Katrina Wallace
When you let go of the familiar And all that used to be, I will show you favor And things your eyes have never seen. Open up your eyes For I’m doing a new thing. Receive my fresh anointing As I turn your wilderness into a spring. The years of drought and lack are gone. For harvest time is here. I declare a new season in your life Rejoice and be glad, for I’ve dried up your tears. Yes, I’ve had to do a work in you To prepare you for what I had in store, Removing the limitations and bondages within Those are “the former thing” and not part of you anymore. You see I’ve had to separate That which was not of me, So you could see the “real” you The you I’ve created you to be.
Rev. Letrice Weaver is the author of An Invitation from the King: Experienc-
Though it’s been a journey It’s not been in vain. You’ve had to build my faith in the “unseen” So your promises I could attain.
ing God’s Power to Trans-
And so like Mary we say today, “Be it unto me according to thy word” For you will surely bring to pass Everything we’ve seen and heard.
“Because of Christ I am”
We embrace your will for our lives So the miraculous can flow free We’ll experience what we thought impossible And enjoy the manifestation of God’s supernatural glory!
form You Into the Person He Created You to Be . She has items from her collection available for purchase. Please email letriceweaver@yahoo.com for more information. ©Letrice Weaver.
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Volume 4, Issue 1
A Note from Our Founder Grace and Peace to you family! As this year comes to a close, there is much to ponder especially with everything that is going on in the world right now. I imagine some of us are making declarations for the year, while some are thinking very nonchalantly about the approaching year. Normally the onset of the year is a time many seek God for what He would like to reveal as well as His direction for the new year. Some of us seek Him, but don’t wait for definitive answers or confirmations; we just push forward in the regularities of our lives and pray that God has His hands in it. Is this the right approach? One can only speculate. However, in seeking Him this year, let's be sure to make real time for Him, so we can get true direction. Some of us have learned quite well how to multi-task....caring for the family, working in or outside the home, attending school, spending time with friends, ministry assignments, etc., but we can still find ourselves feeling like there isn't enough time in a day to get everything accomplished. Sometimes we are so busy being busy that it interferes with our time with God. Time is something I'm sure all of us treasure and wish we had more of, but one thing time doesn't do is wait. Have you ever found yourself thinking "if only I had time I would.... spend more time in prayer, spend more time reading the Bible, etc.?" There are so many things that occupy our time and lots of these things we need to do, but the most important is spending time with God. Our main focus as Christians is to serve God and put Him first no matter what else we have to do. While seeking the Father this year, remind yourself of what your focus should be each day. It's vitally important for us to ask God to show us what He would have us do each day. Jesus said...'Love the Lord your Dr. Roxanna Perry God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-38). Loving God with all our heart, soul and mind, Founder of W.O.W. means we desire to spend time with Him and give Him the best time of our day. This year's seeking God will not be like times past...seeking Him this year will give way to some of you having encounters with Him like never before, while some of you will receive assignments and find yourselves in unfamiliar territory. That's why your "seek" is important....you have to hear God with clarity and be ready to receive instructions. Open yourself up to Him and allow Him to be the one on the throne of your heart. In seeking God this year, start your day committing it to Him in prayer and asking for His help and guidance throughout the day. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. (Proverbs 16:3). Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and thank God for allowing us to cross over into 2015! ~Pastor Roxanna
The Breakthrough—by Candace Penn I remember feeling alone and as if I had no hope, no way out, and no strength to move on. I found myself asking “How did I get here,” “Why am I here,” “Was this what I deserved,” and “What switch did I hit to make him say or do that?” Ultimately, I knew and kept repeating to myself, “NO REAL MAN WOULD EVER HIT A WOMAN… he would treat her like a queen and tell her how beautiful she is and love her like his life depended on it.” I believed my father would be the one to show me how a woman should be treated, but how could he when he made a practice of magnifying my inadequacies? How could he when I witnessed him ridicule and demean my mother? How could my father see I deserved more when his blueprint of love and marriage was either missing or distorted? How could I know how to be treated when my blueprint was messed up? I looked for the backup blueprint, but there was none to be found. The backup seemed to be under construction with glimpses of a few new characters that included side girlfriends with babies out of wedlock. Let’s not forget the manuals available to this backup blueprint, How to be a Single Mother and Love Don’t Live Here Anymore. I have to admit that my vision was blurred so of course the first thing that paid me any kind of positive attention made me feel like a sip of ice cold lemonade on a hot summer day.
However he was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, clothed with smiles, charming words, and a dashing costume that covered his insecurities, womanizing ways, and not to mention his problem with keeping his hands to himself. In the beginning, the relationship was amazing. He was full of loving words and quality time. There were little yellow flags being thrown on the play by “ex-girlfriends” making themselves known or family members leaving innuendos to warn me. Let’s not forget the one time that turned into the first of many times when he grabbed me in the heat of an argument. Those “flags” were no biggie because HE LOVED ME and would do anything for me. Thoughts like: Without him, who else would want me? I’m better with him…He completes me. Leaving him is not an option...plagued me for years. After 4 years, he was in complete control. My actions, clothing, body, and mind was his. His tongue was like a sword, stabbing me over and over again making it known that no one else would want me. When I began to spend time with the ultimate Father, I learned I had value and my strength and wisdom began to grow apart from what I was going through. I feel like I woke up to a love that was irreplaceable. This kind of love offered praise rather than ridicule. God’s love poured everything that was taken from me
back into me. The more time I spent with God, the more empowered I felt. However, I always found myself back in the arms of the wolf, giving myself in every way I could… thinking and hoping things would change if I prayed just a little harder. I thought that if he could just see that the way he loved was hurting me then maybe he’d stop. The wolf had a plan to destroy me and break me in a way that nothing could be replaced. Both of us had reached the point where we were done. Our “love” smelled sour like an old dishrag being reused over and over again. I was finally ready to walk away, but his plan was for me to never be. He wrapped his hands around my neck and banged it repeatedly as if my head was a hammer hitting a nail. Something triggered my desire to breathe and the instinct to fight grew from the pit of my stomach. Everything became a blur. I had reached my breaking point. Enough was finally enough! I realized that my life had value and that the value was worth more than to be shortchanged by being placed in a grave. The wolf tried to break me, but his breaking was done. God helped me break free. Even as I write this, I continue to bask in God’s glory for saving my life. I pray that sharing my testimony helps you to realize your
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When You Come to the End of Yourself—by Tonia Williams Isn’t it funny how you can hear the same type thing so much more than words or cute of message more than one way and realize… phrases. Grace stands in the gap between me Oh, God is talking to me about me (LOL)!!! and God. Grace stands in when I fall and fail, start again, only to fall again. Grace is what A few days ago I was sitting in a staff meeting helps to sustain my faith when I can’t see what and just thinking, “Lord what’s next?” What God is doing on the “other side of the Jordan”. am I to do now? I have done X, Y, and Z and Grace is the crossing guard bringing me across now I am just done.” As the meeting started, the street to God who is patiently waiting me. 2 T.D. Jakes appeared on the screen and he Corinthians 12:8-10 says, “Concerning this began talking about how to be in harmony with thing, I besought the Lord thrice, that it might God. This topic really touched me because I depart from me. And He hath said unto me: My believe that the key to happiness is being con- Grace is sufficient for thee; for my power is nected, being in-tune, and being in harmony made perfect in weakness. Wherefore I take with God. Pastor Jakes said many things but pleasure in weakness, in injuries, in necessities what struck me, was when he said, “Grace fits in persecutions, in distress for Christ’s sake: for in the gap between my shortcomings or fail- when I am weak, then am I strong.” This tells ures and God’s great ability to do all.” me that God doesn’t need me to know all the answers, I have to allow His grace to be enough We never really think about Grace until we are for me. forced to give it to someone or we really need it for ourselves. Grace seems like one of those So what should I do when I come to the end of “Christian catch phrases” that all believers use myself? Well this is a big one….. When I come from time to time; but it isn’t. Grace is some- to end of myself, I should stop and let God do
what only He can or will do for me: show up, show out and make it happen. Being at the end of myself is the key to where I need to be for God to do “Him”. As long as I struggle with an issue, person, or whatever is vexing me at the moment, God will allow me to do so; He is after all a perfect gentleman. He will not touch a situation in my life that I won’t allow Him to be King over. If I could do this on my own, why would I cry out to God for help? If I keep shouting to God, “I got this” then He will let me keep trying to get it. When I get to the end of myself and realize that no amount of crying or worrying is going to solve the problem and begin to trust God to be who He said He would be in my life, my situation changes greatly. Things aren’t so hard and maybe I can go one more mile running and completing this race...
Honey’s Reading Corner PrayHers 31-Day Challenge: In Hers is Yours by Tamara L. Dean What Are You Willing To Give In Order To Receive? How about 31 days? Imagine if everything you want in your life – peace, prosperity, health, a great career, and a happy family – were tucked away inside of a tiny seed and the only way you could have what’s inside of that seed was through prayer and helping someone else to receive their desires. Would you pray? Would you help? Well, you are a seed and tucked away inside of you is everything that pertains to the life you desire. How do you unleash those desires? You sow into the lives of others. Don’t spend another day consumed with just your own hopes and dreams. Pray about HER career, HER finances, HER marriage, and HER aspirations and watch YOURS grow as a result. So, grab the sisters in your women's group, your church, grab your friends and family and unite for 31 days of unselfish love one for anotHER! “… whatsoever a [wo]man soweth that shall [s] he also reap” (Galatians 6:7 ).
Visit Tamara Dean’s website at www.prayhers.com to order your copy today!
“Faith is that indescribable strength and secret weapon of the soul. It allows us to persevere even when circumstances and facts seem pretty bad and the truth is unbearable. Faith is what keeps us going when travel conditions are unfavorable and we're not sure we can continue the journey. Faith is the light that leads us out of darkness and the map that guides our way. Without faith, we would likely pull over to the side of the road, give up and watch everyone else pass us by. Realize that faith is like a muscle; trouble and opposition may strain it, but in the end IT WILL GROW STRONGER.” ~Co-Pastor Joyce Fields, Redeeming Love Christian Center
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Honey’s Recipe Corner Recipe submitted by Kimber and photo submitted by Jennifer Farmer Baltzell Photo provided by www.Allrecipes.com
Ultimate Cranberry Pudding—by Lisa Kreft Ingredients 6 tablespoons butter 2 cups white sugar 4 cups all-purpose flour 4 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups evaporated milk 1 (12 ounce) package cranberries 1 cup butter 1 cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups white sugar Directions 1. 2. 3. 4.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10 inch Bundt pan. Mix together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the 6 tablespoons butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the evaporated milk. Stir in the cranberries. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely. To make the Hot Butter Sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, and cream. Bring to a boil over medium heat, reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Serve slices of cake generously covered with hot butter sauce.
Peace Vs. Distraction—by Minister Patricia Eubanks Parents never want to see their children unhappy or crying. They want them to calm themselves so that they can tell them what the problem is. The child may have fallen while on the playground and runs into the house with tears streaming down her little face, crying so hard that she can't talk or tell Mom or Dad what happened. Most parents would say, “Calm down so you can talk and I can help you.” We
can
all
imagine
this,
right?
Our lives are full of distractions, as its goal is to throw us off the course of what we were put on earth to do. The dictionary says a distraction is a thing that prevents someone from giving full attention to something else. Another meaning is an extreme agitation of the mind or emotions. It's like a yield sign being placed in the middle of a street where it is not needed; it slows down our progress.
A distraction is nothing the destruction of your dream in slow motion. ~Bishop Dale Bronner
In my life I have had many distractions and I'm sure you have as well. Maybe we can't control the distractions that come at us, but we can control how we respond to them. We take control by learning to not live our lives by the emotions that come to us because of the distractions. Emotions are a natural part of life, but we are not suppose to be ruled by them. I use to be the poster child for living by my emotions. God is saying to us when we allow our emotions to lead us as this child on the playground, we will not be able to hear His still small voice speaking to us. Yes, some of the distracting trials hurt and scar us badly, but our Lord is there ready to clean us up and put a band-aid on it to start the healing process. Now let the healing begin!
We start with seeking the presence of God in prayer. In His presence is how we learn to tune into His voice and that voice brings a peace. Prayer is not a monologue, it's a dialogue. We talk then listen, awaiting His response. If my children always talked to me and I never responded in some type of way, it wouldn't be a balanced relationship. It's the same with our Heavenly Father. He will speak to our spirits through His Word, through other people, or however He sees fit. He is never limited in the way He communicates. Distractions serve to keep us in fear, frenzy, hysteria, mental distress, madness, insanity, mania, agitation, and/or perturbation. We have a solution to all of that, thank you Jesus! The peace of God that surpasses ALL understanding that will keep our hearts and our minds is the weapon we need to fight the distractions of life.
Minister Patricia Eubanks is the founder of M.O.T.H.E.R. (My Opportunity to Help Everyone Resource). M.O.T.H.E.R. is a faith & community-based organization, whose goal is to inform, prepare, and support parents, especially the single parents doing a job of two by themselves. Never in history have our children been in a greater need of strong parents and never have parents been looking for answers to make life for their children better. A strong and well-balanced child comes from a strong, well-balanced parent. Please visit the blog and website she has created for parents at: http://peubanks5.wix.com/eubanks.
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Encouraging the Singles
Are You a Desperately Seeking Single?—by A C Nelson As the year comes to a close and the weather gets colder and the winter holidays step on the scene, it becomes apparently obvious that people are “bundling” up for the season. No, I haven’t done an official study or anything, but over the last sixteen years or so, I noticed most people have some type of love interest secured for the winter. I even did a quick Internet search on the correlation between new relationships and the seasonal changes and it seems like my theory proves to be true. The fall/winter months are where most new relationships are formed.
where thoughts like...maybe it’s something wrong with me...maybe my list is too unrealistic, maybe I should just get with so-nso...can invade your mind. We have to shake those thoughts before they consume us. If there are indeed changes that you need to make, make those changes for you and not for someone else. If God has been prompting you to do something about your weight, then do something about your weight for your health, but not as a way to gain the attention of someone. If God has been talking to you about your attitude, change your attitude so that you can bear The attempt is not to prove why that is the Godly fruit, not because you want to fit into a case, but I do want to ask...are you a desper- type that a person likes. ately seeking single during this season? Men and women have to trust God to reveal It is natural to desire a mate, but are you so to them who their help-meets (someone desperate that you will take anybody from suitable) are. Let’s not take the idea of trust the opposite sex? Every time I end an article lightly. Don’t we trust God to wake us up in in this section I always say, “God wants His the morning? Don’t we trust Him to let our best for us! Be encouraged.” This is not just vehicles crank up? When we take matters something that I am using to be a concluding into our own hands because of our impaphrase, but I mean just that. God wants His tience and try to make things happen, it’s best for us. If we are desperately seeking like we’re saying to God, “I don’t trust you.” someone to fill a place in our lives that only God can fill, then we can easily find our- David was given a promise by God that he selves in a relationship with someone who would be king. He was given that promise at was not designed for us. Is that what you a young age. He went through many trials really want? before he became king. He was even running for his life at one point. When he got As time continues to move on and you don’t the promise, he didn’t go out trying to make change your relationship status, I can see a bid on a castle nor did he attempt to build
his kingly entourage. David waited on God to do all of the heavy lifting. I’m sure it was not easy...we can surmise some of his difficulty by reading his journal entries in the book of Psalms... Don’t let the fact that you are not in a relationship become a god in your life. Keep God first and allow Him to do the heavy lifting. Being desperate for a relationship will only distract you from your God-given purpose. Don’t let this current fact destroy you. Keep giving it over to God in prayer. God knows and He sees… Know that the enemy of your soul desires to destroy you so keep your heart guarded. If you are being bombarded with potential mates, lay them on the altar and seek God as to how He wants you to proceed. Don’t let desperation dictate who is the best for you, because it is not qualified to make a wellinformed decision. Allow God to do what He does best...be sovereign, be the solution giver, and provide what’s best. Be encouraged...God wants His best for us.
Marital Bliss
A Kingdom Investment—by Vinicia McNeil Joyner Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, about it; if we viewed marriage this way toand obtaineth favour of the Lord. Proverbs day, would we be so quick to leave ourselves? If we saw ourselves as husband 18:22. and wife as one, would we hurt ourselves Marriage is about relationship, commitment with thoughtless words? If we truly left our and permanency. God intended for man and father and mother (or other family members woman to be able to relate to one another, be and friends) and cleaved to each other, committed to one another (stand together as would it be so easy to pick up the telephone one) and for it all to last a life time. Adam and talk about ourselves? My husband often and Eve did not consider divorce when their tells me that I am him and that he is me. At marriage was attacked. Three of the greatest first it sounded cute and a little funny, but challenges facing marriages today are the the more I learn and experience in our marinability of couples to relate, commit and stay. riage, the more I understand that what he is really saying is that “we are one”. Whatever 23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my he does to me, he does to himself. Whatbones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be ever he does for me, he does for himself. called Woman, because she was taken out of Whatever he invests in me, he invests in Man. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father himself. One day the light went on! J. Now and his mother, and shall cleave unto his that I fully understand, I can say reciprocally wife: and they shall be one flesh. 25 And they that whatever impacts or benefits me, imwere both naked, the man and his wife, and pacts or benefits Dwight also. Whatever is invested in me is invested in him. were not ashamed. Genesis 2:23-25
of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Adam and Eve were comfortable with each other. They were naked and were not afraid, not just physically, but also spiritually. Adam and Eve understood that God placed them together. Our wedding vows confirm the same. Separation is not the first line of defense, looking to someone else for comfort is not an option, we must come to the realization that our commitment is “until death do us part’. 3 Let
the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her Adam knew that Eve was a part of him. He 9 Two are better than one, because they own body, but the husband: and likewise also was committed to being with her. Think have a good return for their labor: 10 If either the husband hath not power of his own body,
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but the wife. 5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. I Corinthians 7:3-5 Marriage is a kingdom investment. Investment in the context of marriage means to devote to or give time, talent, emotional energy, etc. or whatever it takes, whenever it is needed for a purpose or to achieve something. The goal of investing is increase. Nobody wants to invest and end up with the same or less than they started with. When two become one in the marital relationship they receive an immediate return on their investment. They are now twice as good, twice as strong, twice as smart, twice as willing, twice as able…as they were. This is their first kingdom investment as a couple, bringing their whole selves into the marital relationship. Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun. Ecclesiastes 9:9 God made Adam and Eve work partners. They had assignments in the garden. When God came to fellowship in the cool of the evening, He spent time with them. Working in the garden was their ministry assignment so to speak. They worked cooperatively in fulfilling the tasks that God had given them to do. When Adam was single, the job was all his, but when he took a wife, God made room for Eve in the kingdom plan. Working together in ministry is the second kingdom investment. This does not mean that you will both be assigned to the same task, but it does mean that you will support one another and work together as husband and wife to ensure that your kingdom investment accomplishes that which God has ordained and that there is a return. 2 For
thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. 3 Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. 4 Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. Psalm 128:2-4 Children are a part of God’s plan for marriage. Children are a kingdom investment. Whether the children are biological, adoptive, kinship, friends of friends of friends or extended family, God has ordained the marital relationship as the place to invest in, care for and raise children. Each generation that is added reaps a greater return on the initial investment. Even after the fall God still moved forth with His plan and blessed Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and multiply”. Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate. Psalm 127:3-5 Regardless of the season of life in which we marry, living the rest of our lives together is the promise we make to each other and to God. We agree to do it His way. We commit to a relationship that honors God, each other and our family. Marriage requires a continuous flow of spiritual deposits. Making a kingdom investment in marriage means committing to the relationship, working to make it successful, and weathering the storms of difficulty. In order to receive the greatest possible return on our investment, we must acknowledge the sovereignty of God, recognize what He has done in joining us together, invest in our relationship, demonstrate our love through commitment to each other, and make it last forever.
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The Sun Appears After a Heartbreak—by Erica Eaton My heart was literally broken just one year ago… On the other end of the phone line, my boyfriend of five months, asked if I was seated, “Yes, I’m in the car outside of the nail salon” I replied, “What is it? What do you need to tell me?” I asked impatiently. He hesitated a bit before responding, “I don’t want this anymore.” “You, what?” I questioned. Undoubtedly I was totally confused by what I just heard. He was breaking up with me. I was shocked, filled with grief, and felt utterly devastated. It was so sudden, so unexpected, and so matter of fact. Wasn’t this the guy that I had just spent five wonderful days with in Costa Rica for my birthday? And didn’t we discuss what type of wedding we both desired during the trip? I started hyperventilating, “What? Why?” He replied, “We are different people.” REALLY! He said he came to this conclusion based on our conversations over the last several months. He was in the military and was about to leave for a six-week assignment on the west coast. We were already in a long distance relationship with three hours between us, but neither of us felt that the distance was a concern in our relationship. We were having so much fun and everything appeared perfect from my vantage point. I often asked myself how was I so fortunate to have met someone so awesome, so seemingly ideal for me after waiting for so long. I believed that it was God’s will. Unfortunately, my prince charming did not feel the same way. Although, I am a hopeless romantic by nature, I was a bit doubtful about this relationship as I had been about all my relationships up to this point. I had experienced several disappointing relationships by then, that I really didn’t have any great expectations for this relationship. I knew that I really enjoyed his company but I did not expect to fall in love, especially not as quickly as I did. Although a few years younger than I, he appeared to have a bit more experience in relationships, especially with two failed marriages behind him. He seemed determined to right all of his wrongs in this relationship. I did not have to ask for anything. He took charge of the relationship by planning fun activities for us and fine dining excursions. He was an all-around charmer and I was thrilled to be with him! I told all my single friends to join the social networking site where we met. It was indeed a whirlwind relationship. One evening during our nightly minimarathon chats, out of the blue he told me that he loved me. Yes, it was awkward and unexpected after only three months of dating and although I wasn’t sure if I felt the same way, I acquiesced. Eventually, my feelings began to intensify. I hated leaving him after long fun-filled weekends. I thought about him often. I cared for him deeply. I had been in love once before but I can honestly say it never felt this intense. Since I had the privilege of working remotely, I often worked from his house especially toward the end of the week so that we could extend our weekends together. I typically worked from his dining room table but on one particular day, I felt that I needed to enhance my focus and asked if I could work from his office. He agreed and went to great lengths to set me up in his office, all the while ensuring that his laptop would not be used due to some technical issues that I would not understand, etc... It wasn’t a big deal to me since I preferred using my own laptop anyway. However, I felt it rather odd and amusing that he would risk being late for work to disassemble his computer to connect mine for me. But after all, he was an IT expert so it was a cinch for him. When he finally left, my mind began racing. Something told me to open his top drawer. Now normally I am not a snoop, but I am a strong believer in intuition and at that point my intuition kept nudging me to open the drawer. I did, and low and behold there was another picture of his ex-wife of four years. The first picture was strategically placed on the mantel in his dining room area. At first sight, the picture appeared rather innocent since it was a picture of her and her child from her second marriage, but I often wondered to myself why it was even up. And why was it so prominently displayed? Upon seeing the picture in his top drawer, my mind went back to our first date when he told me it was love at first sight when he met his second wife. He seemed very passionate about sharing how they met. I was a bit confused and offended that he even felt it appropriate to share the story with me at that point, but since he seemed so engaged in his story I wanted to loan my compassionate ear. When he came home from work that evening, I decided not to share what I saw because for one, I should not have looked through his drawer and secondly because he said he ended his last relationship because the person went through his unlocked phone. I could only imagine what else I would have found if I was allowed to use his computer that day. However, there it was on full display for me to observe and understand that I was with someone who was potentially still in love with ex-wife but yet again, I ignored the signs. Soon after that day, I put a lot of my suspicions behind me as we continued to share good times together. It wasn’t until a few weeks before my birthday trip that I detected his moodiness and behavior change. I believed that the pressures of work and school were getting to him and that our trip would help ease his burden. However, around that time I finally raised the courage to confront him about the picture on the mantel in the dining area and asked that he please take it down since I felt it was a bit of a distraction to our growing relationship. After much hesitation, he finally agreed to take it down. Shortly after the trip, his mood swings reappeared. In fact, he seemed disgruntled. I figured I’d leave before the weekend came so that he could study and prepare for his business trip. I tried to reach him several times over the weekend but to no avail. This was strange behavior. I finally left an urgent message that it was important that he reach me so that we could discuss my concerns about his behavior. He sent a text to let me know that we indeed needed to talk and that he would call me that evening. Sometime after that dreadful day, I checked his Facebook profile and quickly confirmed my suspicion that he was dating his ex-wife. The pain came rushing back to me. It took me close to a year to get over that relationship. In my time of recovery, I pondered several questions that kept swirling around in my head, like why did I have to experience that? Why did he use me? Why did he say he loved me when he really didn’t? Why did I feel so betrayed? Where was God in all of this? Why did I ignore the signs? What was my lesson in all of this?
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In my final summation of what I went through, my take away lesson from this experience has been that: 1) I had a lot of work to do to restore my self-worth; 2) that I needed to do a better job at guarding my heart and; 3) God is always speaking to me but I need to do a better job of listening… I wanted the relationship to work at all expense because I could not fathom that God had something better in store for me. I ignored the signs because I did not trust God. On top of that, I failed to guard my heart. I didn’t do a good job of vetting this person. It takes time to get to know people for who they really are. I also realized that not everyone is worthy of my love and attention or even healthy enough to receive it. It’s been a long journey and my work still isn’t complete but I am happy to report that I am in a place of peace again. I have accepted what has happened to me and have made peace with it. I am back to dating and carefully applying the lessons learned as I move forward. God is love and He always has my back.
Honey’s Health Corner Dr. Lee’s Prescription for a Productive Year—Dr. Erika Lee I thought I would share some great tips from my recent leadership conference and pray that they will bless you as they have blessed me. This summer I learned a valuable lesson about the importance of self-care for my mind, body and spirit. It seems that even during the summer months, which were intended for some relaxation, I still felt the hustle and bustle of life rushing me through the day. There is always so much to be done and so many demands from many directions, that life can sometimes just feel overwhelming. Having the opportunity to travel to Nashville for the National Association of Elementary Principals Conference provided me with the opportunity to regroup, network and get reenergized for the year. After attending session after session, I found myself still looking for a session to address my personal needs as a leader and found my refuge in my final session, “Taking Care of Yourself.” With all of the never ending items on my “to do list,” I realized that if I am not my best self, then I will not have anything to give to others; therefore, self-care must be a priority. Scheduling time for you does not necessarily mean spending hours at the day spa (even though that would be great.) It simply means setting aside a few moments each day for reflection and relaxation. Here are a few things that I am learning to do to as I force myself to make time for me. (Yes, I said force, because as a parent, it is difficult to get even a minute to yourself.)
Start your day with a warm cup of lemon water. (This will clear your system of toxins and refresh your body.) Drink plenty of water throughout the day. (This will keep your body energized and increase the elimination process.) Start your day with prayer and meditation. (Allow your spirit to tune into God’s spirit before starting the day. Seek His will for the day and cast any cares that you have on Him because He truly cares for you.) Relax. (Upon returning home from the tasks of the day, take a warm bath or shower to “wash off the day.” Explain to your family that you need a few moments before they start placing their evening demands on you. ) Make a vision board. (This is a great way to set goals for yourself and to actually have a visual representation with scriptures to support your dreams.) Laugh. (Enjoy those silly moments with your kids and stop being so serious. Life is too short to walk around grumpy and angry, Laugh Out Loud!) Exercise. (Begin or end each day with a 30 minute workout, nothing too intense if you have never worked out before, just something cardio to get your blood pumping. This will also help you rest well at night and have energy during the day.) Read. (We are always encouraging our kids to read for enjoyment; therefore, we should lead by example. Delete some of those game apps off of your phone and download a good book to read. Enjoy reading while waiting in the gym during basketball practice or while waiting for dance class to end.) Rest. (Allow your body to rest and rejuvenate as this is essential to optimal health. If you are having trouble sleeping, place some lavender in your pillow case or rub lavender oil on your temples to help you relax.)
Finally, prioritize your day to ensure that your mind, body and spirit are not overwhelmed or exhausted. Determine what is urgent, important and what can just wait until tomorrow. After all, Jesus came so that we may have life and have it more abundantly. That means that we should be enjoying this journey, not dreading it.
I can do all things through Christ who
Do you want to know Him? We all need to RECEIVE CHRIST AS OUR LORD AND SAVIOR. You see, we are ALL sinners and need to be forgiven. Wouldn't you like to be 100% sure that you will spend eternity with Him in heaven? Jesus is waiting for you to ask Him into your life...to ask for forgiveness and a new life in Him. RECEIVING CHRIST IS SIMPLE: 1. We must realize our sin separates us from God. We are all sinners. We are born
sinners. 2. Believe that Jesus died for your sins, and that He rose in victory over death. 3. Invite Jesus to take control of your life. Just give it all to Him. He will wash away the sin and begin to change you from the inside out. Your whole life will take on a new perspective. The past is erased! 4.Only Jesus can save you from hell. Only your sincere decision to accept Jesus as your Savior, (turning to God) will save you. There is no hope of obtaining salvation through any good works, acts of kindness, priest, saint or money.
The Shepherd’s House of Restoration Worship Center You’re Invited! The Shepherd’s House of Restoration Worship Center would like to extend an invitation for you to attend our church on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. for time of worship and empowerment through God’s Word. We are the place where everybody is somebody and Christ is all. We are located at 6200 Coventry Way, Clinton, MD 20735. If you don’t have any ministry or personal conflicts, we’d love for you to come fellowship with us and bring someone along with you. If you would like to be put on our email list so that you can be sent this newsletter and any of our upcoming events or if you have any prayer requests, please email us at 1wownews@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you.
In genuine sincerity, you can speak to Jesus... Lord Jesus, I know that I am not the woman that you desire me to be. I know I am a sinner and that my sins separate me from you. I firmly believe that you died on the cross for my sins and suffered in my place for the condemnation that I deserve. I come to you now for forgiveness and to surrender my life to You. Help me not to be ashamed of You. You have been patiently waiting outside the door of my heart knocking. I now open the door. Come in, Lord Jesus, and be my Lord and Savior forever. Help me live for you from this day forward.
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Women on the Wall: Breaking Down the Barriers that Divide Women Women on the Wall (WOW) began in 2008 in the home of Dr. Roxanna Perry who serves alongside her husband, Dr. Randolph Perry at The Shepherd’s House of Restoration Worship Center in Clinton, MD. The idea of WOW stemmed from Dr. Roxanna Perry’s multiple encounters with hurting, abused, financially troubled, sick, and broken women. The majority of these women were already a part of the Body of Christ, yet still were experiencing these hardships. Occasionally, she met women in “the marketplace” with similar issues. Oftentimes, these women felt alone in their experiences and feared others would judge them and not understand their private pain. However, WOW understands
that “Sisters—need—Sisters” so we endeavor to support and celebrate the life of each woman. The mission of WOW is to bring restoration, healing, and encouragement to women of all races and religions. Through prayer, worship, fellowship, and hosting empowerment sessions, WOW’s vision is to see women transformed by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and to walk in greater understanding of what God has called them to do in the earth realm. It is clear from Jeremiah 29:11 that God’s thoughts toward his people are good and that He has great plans for their life. It is toward that end we move with the heartbeat of the Lord Jesus
Christ to build unity among women and to shower His women with compassion and love as they forge ahead toward their destiny in Christ. With the launch of the Honey Bee Press, the hope is that more women will be reached, more insights will be gained and that women will see that they are not alone. We thank you for your support and look forward to hearing your feedback.
The Honey Bee Press