My Promise to My Children

It's because of God's gift to me that I am a Mother. As a Mother and now Grandmother, this promise is my living testimony (as documented in my published book, A Mother's Cry: He's Still My Child and website - www.priscillapower.com). I post this as a call to action for all parents -especially for the younger parents. No matter what your child does. No matter where your child is. He or she is still your child. Promise them.

My Promise to My Children (Author Unknown) I am your Parent 1st - your Friend 2nd. I will stalk you, flip out on you, lecture you, drive you insane, be your worst nightmare & hunt you down like a bloodhound when needed because I LOVE YOU ! When you understand that, I will know you are a responsible adult. You will NEVER find someone who loves, cares, & worries about you more than I do! If you don't hate me once in your life - I am not doing my job properly. Re-post if you are a parent & agree...♥

Life's Journey Can Hijack You

Job, family, church, FaceBook, loss of family and friend, and community acitivites can truly take you hostage. Some are only a distraction from your main focus and goals one being this blog. Once again, I have been so engulfed with the above mentioned, I completely forgot to post on this blog - and since it has been so long, I forgot the password. Wow, so where do I start? First, I have missed you! I hope you have had a great new year thus far. Being here takes me into a whole different world. It gives me a since of peace and satisfaction. I am not frustrated and feel a sense of worthwhile and belonging. This is exactly where I suppose to be. It has been over a year and a half since I posted. So let's catch up where we can and move forward. I have been involved in many diverse activities and have gained an abundance of knowledge. I have completed a year long Advance Leadership Program, chaired the Southside Community Advisory Board, and traveled across the United States. I have emerged myself into a continued research project through exploratory research with a focus on The Impact of Urban Renewal and City Planning. At this point, I can only say "Wow!" Perhaps I will share some things along the way - for city planning certainly plays a part in the daily lives of our children and Urban Renewal's impact extends through generations. In closing, I have made a commitment to not allow myself to become highjacked on life's journey for such a long period. I will set my priorities and stay within the realm. Until my next posting, peace be unto you.

10 Common Legal Mistakes Parents of Special Needs Make and more:

www.connecticutspecialeducationlawyer.com

My, how time does fly when you are handling business! Two months have passed and I have been engulfed in every minute. Here is an update. I have served as the key note speaker in Greensboro, NC for Joseph House. Joseph House is a home for homeless youth. The fundraiser event was empowering. To see over 200 women come together to help youth was awesome. We need more of this action.

I have also completed a five-week training session parent-to-parent with Getting Back to the Basics. This event was an eye opener and a reminder that parents need help with the challenging youth – more than ever. I have attended several community meetings to stay connected with what is happening from government initiatives down to Buncombe County juvenile court information. Last but least, I have been placed in position where I am the guardian of two young men – two and four years old - one in which we had a June birthday party! As of July, I am now a mother of a 29 and 32 year old. Talking about balancing out life?


One thing I have noticed – along my journey, God always keeps me connected to parents and children. This is why I know my purpose in life is to serve parents and children. Yes, I get tired sometimes, but I know I must not quit. I must not faint. I must have faith and know that God’s word is he will not put any more on you than what you can bare. I must step out in faith trusting in God and His goodness.

So many people are oppressed – for whatever reason or another. When parents are oppressed, the children will be oppressed. This is known as generational activities. But the bible tells me there is nothing new under the sun. The Old Testament’s story where the Israelites escaped from oppression in Egypt and were in the wildness for forty days and forty nights is an example for everyone’s spiritual journey. Through Christ we are delivered from bondages of sin and can enter into a land of promise. Along the way, we have much to learn.

Nevertheless, through it all God promised us divine guidance as we journey through life. Life is full of decisions - on a daily basis. I could have chosen not to participate in any of the above mentioned, but I didn’t. Why did I make my choices?

Who I am today is the product of decisions that I have made in the past. Who I become tomorrow will be the result of the decisions I make today. I know what I have dealt with in the past as a child – what I craved for and what I lacked. I know what wrong choices I made and where it led me. I know what I experienced as a single mother. I know what choices I made to bring me out of the oppression and bondage in which I was so tightly tangled. I know the choices that I made above are what God would have me do.

How do you know whether you are making the right decisions? What do you do when you need direction? Remember – God’s Word gives us simple, clear, and encouraging directions. It is all found in one of the most encouraging promises in the Bible.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path. Proverbs 3:5 – 6 NKJV

If you carry out your responsibility of trusting in the Lord with all your heart, it will be the greatest and most important decision you could ever make in traveling life’s journey.

Encouragement and Empowerment - Mother to Mother

To: "Priscilla R. Ndiaye"
Date: Wednesday, May 5, 2010, 3:52 AM
Nancy sent you a message.

(no subject)

"Hi Priscilla -I am requesting prayer for my son Samuel. I received a letter from him today that troubles me greatly. I need the prayer warriors to agree with me in prayer for his deliverence from drug addiction and his souls salvation. He in in the hole in prison and facing new charges. I am tired of the devil messing with my seed and am sending out a warcry for his soul. Please agree in pray with me as the Spirit leads you. Thanks in advance for your prayer support. Nancy"
____________________________________
Response:

Good evening, Nancy. I have read a book and carry it in my purse, Prayers That Rout Demons by John Eckhardt. It is a very powerful resource in warfare prayers. The book reminds us of the power we have in Jesus Christ and is supported by scripture. Some that stand out are:

I command all devils to leave my children - in the name of Jesus. (Mark 7:29)

I know that you know God's word, but sometimes we are distracted in the visual by the situations. However, when we acknowledge that God is in control and nothing happens unless He allows it coupled with a believing mindset that all things work to the good of those who are called - according to God's purpose, our victory will present itself. In addition, we have to realize that in spite of what we see in the natural, in the spiritual setting, God is working some things out. He's continuously purging and purifying those chosen ones (our sons) whom have been deceived to make wrong choices - ones that have led them astray - because the adversary knows that they are chosen and God has a mighty work for them to do. Because of this lack of knowledge or revelation, our sons have to go through the process of God turning them over to a repabate mind - but not leaving or forsaking them.

Now Nancy, it is very ironic that I just read your e-mail, started to answer you at 6:45 p.m., but came back to complete it at 9:13 p.m. God had something for me to share with you and He used my son to confirm. My son is doing very well. He's free. Finished his GED, just received his certification in Culinary Art, and is on his third year of working on the same job. He is actually at a leadership retreat.

He just called me thirty minutes ago to tell me how great of a time he was having. WHY am I telling you these things when your son is locked up? Well, Sister Nancy in spite of where the physical body is - whether inside a correction facility or outside, until our sons and anyone else in bondage within their minds and spirits are freed, they will be in bondage - no matter where they are.

My son just told me that he has been wrestling with the call or yearning to do crack. He has been depressed and looking for a reason to go travel back down that road. It is my understanding that since a choice was made to indulge, there will be a yearning - every so often. There is a saying in the bible that tells us how the demons will flee, but come back with more. That is why we as parents have to continously stand in the gap, pray, plead the blood of Jesus for our children - even when things seem to be well. Being watchful and prayer at all times is a spiritual investment into eternal life for self, family, and friends.

In closing, I rebuke and cast out any spirit that would attempt to oppress our children - in the name of Jesus. I strip all power from spirits that would opress me or my child. (Eccles. 4:1) I pray for deliverance for our sons - from their strong enemy and from those demonic spirits that are too strong for them. (Psalm 18:17) Lord, Nancy is Your anointed - and we thank you for giving her son great deliverance. (Psalm 18:40) Lord, cleanse his temple and drive out any theif from his life. (John 2:14-15). I bind and cast out all familiar spirits that would try to operate in his life - in the name of Jesus. (Isaiah. 8:19) - in Jesus' name I pray. Cover his and Nancy's mind with the blood of Jesus. Amen.

My sister, be sure to continue to lift my son and I in prayer as well as other parents and children. Prayer is what will carry us through and to the mark of the highest calling.

Mother's Day 2010 is the best mother's day thus far. I could not have received a better present then to attend a graduation ceremony watching my Prodigal son receive his Culinary Certification from Asheville-Buncombe Technical College.

To watch him receive his certification with the biggest silly smile I have ever seen made my heart leap with joy that I have never experienced. You see, this Prodigal son and the very one I wrote about in A Mother's Cry: He's Still My Child has now shown that his mindset has changed. He now make choices that are productive and not self-destruction. Praise God and Hallelujah! My stress, pain, and tears were not in vain. My prayers have been answered.

Life's Journey - Life is filled with many twists and turns - but don't be distracted from your mission or purpose too long. Life reminds one to be at peace but never become too comfortable. Trust no man, but in all things - trust God. Be very careful to balance your emotions in order not to become emotionally hijacked.

Life is truly a journey. Your final destination is determined by preparation.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009; 6:15 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.; Asheville Police Training Room; in support of Getting Back to the Basics, founded by SGT Quinten Miller; gbttb.com.



Remove the Masks is a special presentation that allows an individual to examine life. It is intended to empower people to free themselves from the bondages of life which hide behind masks. Yes, we all wear masks. In fact we wear several of them.

In reality, although this is a season to be merry, everyone is not. I have talked with several of my friends and family members – and many are struggling with emotions. This is when it is very important that we pray for one another. People are hurting for various reasons and that hurt tends to magnify during this time of the year. I am talking about adults now. However, could you imagine what the youth are going through? It grieves my heart to see other people hurt. Therefore I wish to offer prayer up for and with all wounded hearts.

Heavenly Father, I first thank you for your love. You loved us enough to send your only begotten son to this earth to dwell among us to show us how we are to live on this earth. Thank you for Jesus! Happy Birthday Jesus.

Heavenly Father, I also thank you for your grace and mercy. Although life seems dreary sometimes, I know that it would be worst without you. Search hearts, Lord and anything not of you – please remove it. Fill those voids with your likeness. Empower the weak with your holy spirit and strength. Lead people and order their steps away from states of depressions. Order their steps, guard their tongues, and heal their wounded heart and broken spirit.

Heavenly Father, bless all the people in the world. You know each need. Spread a revolution of love and unity. Bless this 2009 Christmas and 2010 New Year season – like you never have before. Keep us from all harm and danger is my prayer. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Antonio, C.J. and I wish you a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!




HANDBOOK 2010

Health:
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is
manufactured in plants.
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2009.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all
about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest
your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake.
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of
the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply
part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the
lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

Society:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in
touch.

Life:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come.
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Last but not the least:
40. Believe it!

December 4 was the anniversary of 14 year old Keith's murder. I posted on Facebook and received a response from a schoolmate that put things back into perspective. I talked with his grandmother and father yesterday. They were dealing with his absence, but were also dealing with personal emotions.

I, in turn, put quality time in with two of my grandson's yesterday (2 years old Antonio and 3 years old C.J>) and spent quality time with him. We have snuggled, wrestled, ate, and laugh...enjoying the moments that we have together...and even watching Scubby Doo. You never know when or how the end will be - so why not enjoy te moments, make every minute count for good memories? Take time to hug, talk and listen to, nurture, teach, and love you children, grandchildren, and any child who needs it. It is an investment into the future.

Keith is gone, but he surely will never be forgotten. Here is Jim Hardin's Facebook response. He knew nothing about Keith or his death until I posted it on Facebook. I know it was a divine message - Keith, too, donated his organs:



Jim Hardin December 4 at 7:11am

Dear Priscilla,

I am very sorry to hear about Keith. Our FATHER especially loves HIS children...below is a story about a yung man, much like Keith, and his trip to be with our Lord. When you read you'll likely cry, remember Jesus cried too...

Jimmy's Letter

She jumped up as soon as she saw the surgeon come out of the operating room. She said: 'How is my little boy? Is he going to be all right? When can I see him?'
The surgeon said, 'I'm sorry. We did all we could, but your boy didn't make it.'
Sally said, 'Why do little children get cancer? Doesn't God care any more? Where were you, God, when my son needed you?'
The surgeon asked, 'Would you like some time alone with your son? One of the nurses will be out in a few minutes, before he's transported to the university.'
Sally asked the nurse to stay with her while she said good bye to son. She ran her fingers lovingly through his thick red curly hair. 'Would you like a lock of his hair?' the nurse asked. Sally nodded yes. The nurse cut a lock of the boy's hair, put it in a plastic bag and handed it to Sally.

The mother said, 'It was Jimmy's idea to donate his body to the University for Study. He said it might help somebody else. 'I said no at first, but Jimmy said, 'Mom, I won't be using it after I die. Maybe it will help some other little boy spend one more day with his Mom.' She went on, 'My Jimmy had a heart of gold. Always thinking of someone else.. Always wanting to help others if he could'
Sally walked out of Children's Mercy Hospital for the last time, after spending most of the last six months there. She put the bag with Jimmy's belongings on the seat beside her in the car.

The drive home was difficult. It was even harder to enter the empty house.. She carried Jimmy's belongings, and the plastic bag with the lock of his hair to her son's room.

She started placing the model cars and other personal things back in his room exactly where he had always kept them. She lay down across his bed and, hugging his pillow, cried herself to sleep.
It was around midnight when Sally awoke. Lying beside her on the bed was a folded letter. The letter said:

'Dear Mom,
I know you're going to miss me; but don't think that I will ever forget you, or stop loving you, just 'cause I'm not around to say'I Love You'. I will always love you, Mom, even more with each day. Someday we will see each other again. Until then, if you want to adopt a little boy so you won't be so lonely, that's okay with me. He can have my room and old stuff to play with. But, if you decide to get a girl instead, she probably wouldn't like the same things us boys do. You'll have to buy her dolls and stuff girls like, you know.

Don't be sad thinking about me. This really is a neat place. Grandma and Grandpa met me as soon as I got here and showed me around some, but it will take a long time to see everything. The angels are so cool. I love to watch them fly. And, you know what? Jesus doesn't look like any of his pictures. Yet, when I saw Him, I knew it was Him. Jesus himself took me to see GOD! And guess what, Mom? I got to sit on God's knee and talk to Him, like I was somebody important. That's when I told Him that I wanted to write you a letter, to tell you good bye and everything. But I already knew that wasn't allowed. Well, you know what Mom? God handed me some paper and His own personal pen to write you this letter. I think Gabriel is the name of the angel who is going to drop this letter off to you. God said f or me to give you the answer to one of the questions you asked Him 'where was He when I needed him?' 'God said He was in the same place with me, as when His son Jesus was on the cross. He was right there, as He always is with all His children.

Oh, by the way, Mom, no one else can see what I've written except you. To everyone else this is just a blank piece of paper.. Isn't that cool? I have to give God His pen back now He needs it to write some more names in the Book of Life. Tonight I get to sit at the table with Jesus for supper. I'm sure the food will be great.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you. I don't hurt anymore - the cancer is all gone.. I'm glad because I couldn't stand that pain anymore and God couldn't stand to see me hurt so much, either. That's when He sent The Angel of Mercy to come get me. The Angel said I was a Special Delivery! How about that?
Signed with Love from God, Jesus & Me.

May GOD bless and protect you as we prepare to clebrate and remember HIS birth.
Jim

2009 Holiday Season, Emotions, and Memories

The holiday season tends to bring about mixed emotions of joy as well as sadness. It is the most stressful and depressive time of the year. It is the time when deep thoughts of loved ones whom have journeyed out of this world lingers. Thanksgiving and Christmas brings about happy family and friend gatherings. It is also the time when we think back on accomplishments and/or events throughout the year and ponder New Year's resolutions.

Most importantly, the holiday season is a gift from God. It is a reminder for us to be thankful - thankful for all the blessings that God has given us ...in spite of. It is a reminder that God loved us so much that He sent His only begotten Son to dwell amongst us - to be an example and show us how we are suppose to live, love one another, encourage one another, help one another, and respect one another. It is a reminder that there is a reason for every season - so enjoy the moment and enjoy one another...for reality is - tomorrow is not promised. As we journey into the holidays, I pray they will be filled with joy.

Grand Daddy Herbert Robinson, James Finley, and Grandmother Ruth Finley - We miss you!
Uncle Harold "Bo" Finley - We miss you!
Second Mother Ruth Fabian - We miss you!
Keith Holloway - We miss you!
Uncle Jitterbug cleaning off the gravesite
My graduation from Montreat with a Master of Science in Management and Leadership
Friend - Jene Blake being interviewed for school research paper titled The Impact of Urban Renewal
Oh What A Day! Barack Obama at Asheville High School.
Asheville High Classmates planning for the AHS 30th year reunion at Martin Luther King Park

Family members at a family gathering - Quan, Tia, Tamara,and Tam
Additional family members at a family gathering - Belinda, Kita, Tamara,and Tia

Times Truly Flies

I can't believe it has been 30 years since I have been out of school. I thank God for allowing me life to reunite with classmates on September 18-20, 2009. There were some that I had not seen since graduation.

It was awesome and everyone had a blast. Visit ahs30yrslater.blogspot.com to view the time we had. I'm looking forward to the 35th!

It's Time!

It's time to take control of you, your body, mind, and spirit. So much is happening around us in the world today - with family, friends, co-workers, and even with self. It's time to be in control of you and not allow the stressess of this world break you down.

One of my professors gave some words of wisdom. You can not change other people, so work on self - develop and take care of self. In the midst of me taking actions to his words of wisdom, I have come across some products that I would like to share with you. Check them out:

Nutrition

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Functions

The combination of their juices leverages the synergic action in your body to the fullest, slowing your body's cells aging process while preventing the occurrence of terrible degenerative diseases.

Garmet

Shape your body and reduce sizes.

These garments are therapeutic and designed so you can truly reshape your lower body. It allows you to redistribute some of your irregularities to a more desirable area. And yes, there are some for the men, too!

Functions

• Corrects posture and sharpens overall figure.

• Smooths the irregularities and helps prevent additional deposits.

Distributor

Encourage you family, friends, and co-worker to self-assess for health, reshaping, and empowerment. Become a distributor and make money!

For more information, visit my website at ardysslife.com/priscillandiaye

Thank God for His power to endure! I never would have made it with out Him. Graduation was May 23, 2009. I am a now a proud graduate from Montreat College with my Masters of Science in Management and Leadership and I give God all of the glory.

Time truly waits for no one. I can not believe that it is all over and I am so thankful that I pursued and completed a set goal. It goes to show that when you set your mind to do something, be committed, and disciplined to the tasks, you can do it.

During my studies, I can truly say personal and professional development occurred. Attending Montreat was the greates learning exprience I have ever had at this point in my life. Now I have been better equipped to educate and empower the people.

So, I encourage you to take it to the next level; follow your dreams or goals; and just do it!

Thank you for sticking it out with me. I will put for an effort to post more frequently - now that I have more free time. Write me. I need the interaction and I would like to hear your thoughts and suggestions for posting.

Maintaining a spiritual focus has allowed my strength to endure and overcome trails and tribulations. I invite you to meditate on the thought of the month provided by:

Rev. Wayne and Andrea Purcell
The Word Made Truth Ministry
76 Livingston Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801

(828) 279-8562

Rev. Wayne and Andrea Purcell also have a prison ministry. It is a blessing to have their son, Kingslee, who lives in Los Angeles, California present the thought of the month. Please feel free to ask questions.

The Calm In the Storm

I was on a ship cruising to Costa Rica and we went through a major storm on the Atlantic. This huge cruise ship, built like a city on the sea, was at the mercy of gale force winds and an angry ocean. This massive ship was rocking side to side like a pendulum. Plates were sliding off of tables. Passengers had to grip the handrails just to walk. I keenly remember a defeated and troubled spirit that pervaded the ship and passengers. We simply had no answer. Never in a thousand years did we expect a turbulent storm on a cruise ship to Limon, Costa Rica.

Most of us today can predict storms through some media outlet. And by that forecast comes adequate preparation, whether an umbrella, extra layers, or simply the right mindset. But then there are storms in life that we have no forecast for – job loss, financial setbacks, sickness, alienation… As long as life is going the way we want it to go, we feel as if we are in control and that gives us a great sense of security. But all it takes is one lengthy and turbulent storm to show us how little we are in control.

Our focus scripture for this message:

Mark 4:35-40

On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, Let us cross over to the other side. Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”

Actions we take in a storm say who we are. Having the poise and quality of mind to seek God and pray in the midst of a storm is a positive action. It takes great courage to pray when our safe walls are broken down, leaving us weak and vulnerable. It takes equal great courage to trust in the Lord, leaning not on our own understanding of why this is happening to me. Why me? What did I do to deserve this? It can be said that the disciples did not think of Jesus in the storm. They could only see the crashing waves and the rising water. And it never dawned on them that how could a boat sink with Jesus in it.

Ephesians 3:20

Now to him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.

The continuation of pray in the mist of storms of life takes perseverance before the breakthrough comes. And this can be the toughest part because like the disciples we fear that God has abandoned us in our little boat and we are left to fend for ourselves. Perseverance is defined as continuing in a course of action when there is no prospect for success. Staying the course of action can be difficult today because we live in a world of speed. Our phones have speed dial, our computers have fast modems, and we have our dinner by way of a drive thru window. In other words, it is about instant gratification and a shortened wait time. So to persevere in any endeavor, any situation these days makes us feel hopeless because our gratification is delayed, which acts against the way we are conditioned. We ask ourselves, when is this going to end? How long must I wait? We may even take a desperate peak up to the clouds for some sign.

But hope is around the corner because the storm comes before the victory, before the calm and before the breakthrough. The disciples in the boat never imagined this looking up at the giant waves and down at the rising water in their boat. And after Jesus had calmed the sea he asked the disciples what happened to their faith. Why were they so fearful? When the storm on the sea was at its worst it was gut check time for the disciples and all they could see were the facts – waves and rising water. In the storms of life, when we are preserving and staying the course it must be with a mind that is looking past the facts, past a temporary job loss, past a financial setback, or emotional distress. We must rebuke the enemy who peppers us with nonstop distracting thoughts like “why is this happening to me.” We don’t deserve this -- Jesus does not love me.

At the moment when we start to second guess and question “why me” is when we must answer Jesus’ own questions in the focus scriptures. Why are you so fearful? Have you no faith? Hitting the wall in a lengthy storm I believe is akin to exercising and hitting the wall. You have two options at that point: quit or persevere. And oftentimes when we push through the wall we get that miraculous second and third wind to get us to our ultimate goals. And you think to yourself, I am so glad I did not quit.

In the midst of a lengthy storm and being tried by the enemy is also when we as believers must fight back with affirmations like I know I am a child of God and scriptures like Romans 8:28 – And we know that all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, to them who are called according to His purpose.

And remember that perseverance in the storms of life builds godly character.

Romans 5:3

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.

IN CONCLUSION

The actions we take in a storm say who we are. The disciples panicked in the boat. What about us? The passage in Mark 4 reminds us that the presence of a storm does not mean the absence of Jesus. He may be quiet, even appearing to be sleeping at times during our own storms of life. But when Jesus arose on the boat he rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. On that cruise ship on the Atlantic many of the passengers stowed away in their cabins, fearing for their lives and hoping just to sleep through the turbulent storm. And the next morning when we awoke and peered out of our windows what did we see but the ship safely docked on the golden and serene coast of Limon, Costa Rica. Let us pray with steadfastness, persevere like distance runner, and be calm in the storm.

PRAYER

Thank you for this moment to talk with you, oh, Magnificent One. We give thanks for what you have done, are doing, and will do in our lives. We trust you completely God. We release our worries and fear to you God; for you are the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory forever. We ask for the knowledge of Your will in our lives, Father. We ask that You lead. Direct our paths. Show us the way. We need your strength, Father. We cannot go this alone. We sometimes feel weak. Put thy hand upon us. Give us strength to persevere. And bless us indeed. Use us Father. We are yours completely. Thank you for the victory. Thank you for the smile across our face -- your humble servants. Amen.

By Kingslee O. Purcell

Los Angeles, California

Greetings and Happy New Year! Time truly waits for no one. I am currently in the middle of a class and have only one more to go before I graduate. Pursuing a Master of Science Degree is no joke. Much is required and there has to be discipline and committment. In addition to these last two classes, I have a research paper due. My topic of research is The Impact of Urban Renewal and it has been very interesting.

I hope all is well with you. I apologize for not being able to take the time to leave written communication, but I promise I will resume on a regular basis after graduation in May. I am proud of what I have accomplished thus far. Out of the eleven classes, I have earned A (8) and B (3). To God be he glory!

In the midst of full-time work and full-time school, I have still taken on a few speaking engagements. My latest was during the Kwaanza celebration at the YMI and I am tentatively scheduled to speak at the Dianne Wortham Theatre on program with author, Mindy Fullilove, M.D. - book title Root Shock. The program is scheduled for Saturday, February 28...so keep me in prayer.

February truly adds more business to my schedule. My husband's birthday, my birthday, and our anniversary. In addtion, the trail of my 15 year old murded relative starts on February 16 - so please be in prayer with and for my family and me, as well as the 19 year old murderer. It is most appreciated.

Thank you so much for your time, prayers, and attention. May God continue to bless you and your family with his strength, power, authority, and love. Remember God loves you!

Maintaining a spiritual focus has allowed my strength to endure and overcome trails and tribulations. I invite you to meditate on the thought of the month provided by:

Rev. Wayne and Andrea Purcell
The Word Made Truth Ministry
76 Livingston Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801

(828) 279-8562

Rev. Wayne and Andrea Purcell also have a prison ministry. Please feel free to ask questions pertaining to the thought of the month.

This month we have the blessing of receiving our thought of the month by the son of Rev. Wayne and Minister Andreat Purdell - Kinglee O. Purcell

Four Steps to Letting God through the door of your Heart

Use S.O.A.P.

Scripture

Observation

Application

Prayer

God told Adam and Eve in the Garden not to eat of a particular tree. Instead, they chose to do it their way and placed their will ahead of God’s. And by taking control they fell short of God’s desire. We must ask ourselves is our will before His?

Here are four steps that can lead us closer to a purpose driven life:

1. Scripture is the bread of life to a Christian.

Our bodies need food for energy. A car needs fuel for energy. As Christians we need scriptures for our spiritual food each day, feeding our mind, body, and soul.

Psalm 119:105

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Take the time to set a personal connection with God by reading his word. Select a handful of verses and read it once, twice, and one more time for good measure. You will be amazed to find just how rich and deep a verse can be.

2. Observe what you are feeling.

No matter how busy we become, we must set aside that precious time where we can enter the presence of God. To enter the presence of God is simply to find that quiet place where we can observe and think about and chew on the read scripture. And most importantly, in that quiet place we can listen to his gentle whisper. God desires to give us clear direction today.

1 Kings 19: 11-13

“Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face.”

3. Apply the scripture.

Live the scripture. This is not always easy because often time we can be tested the minute we walk outside our home. I remember once feeling very centered and at peace after reading scripture. Then less than five minutes after leaving my home I find myself in a shouting argument with a car that had cut me off. Later, I felt kind of bad that I failed my first test.

God has gifted us scripture designed to make us better and stronger Christians. So, even when we fail the very first test, repent, and get back on the path!

Matthew 5:14-16

“You are the light unto the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men.

4. Improve the time you spend with God in prayer.

Are you too busy to pray? If so, think about the time spent surfing the net, texting, listening to a song, watching the boob tube. Now what if you set your cell phone alarm for prayer? Or before you get out of your car for work thanking Him for allowing you to reach your destination? There is always time for prayer. It is simply a matter of being conscious as to when to pray. Be creative and make little reminders around you – prayer time. Change it up sometime and just offer a prayer of gratitude. Let’s spice up our prayer life!

Matthew 6:6

“But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your father who is in the secret place, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

IN CONCLUSION

Does God have the key to your heart? Or do you? If you are clutching that key turn it over to Him. After bacon and eggs, have a second helping of a spiritual breakfast. Use S.O.A.P. to cleanse your hands of the world and enter that quiet place and the presence of God. Let us challenge ourselves to live with scripture on the tip of our tongue and move in the direction of a person prayed up.

Prayer-

Thank you for this moment, father. Thank you for the scriptures I have read. I ask that you reveal to me its inner truth, and in doing so, help me apply it to my daily life. Put your hand upon me. Open up my heart that I may have eyes to see, ears to hear, and hands to feel. I smile knowing you are in my presence. Bless me and my family indeed this day. Thank you.

Amen.

2008 has been filled with lots of changes...some from my own personal choices, some through choices of others, and some through nature and just plain life.

Working full time is enough to keep one busy, but adding full time school to the equation tends to take you hostage to time. Seeking a Master of Science in Management in Leadership is no joke and is definitely time consuming. Discipline, self-control, and structure play a very important part and are the lifeline of success. At one point and time, it seems as though it's all about you - by yourself, but that's simply not true. One event this year which I had the honor and privilege to attend greatly encouraged and empowered me in my journey toward change is the presidential campaign for Barak Obama.

I had never attended such events and wasn't planning to attend this event. After my younger son, while at work, had the opportunity to shake Obama's hand, the reality of change hit me. You see, 10 years ago, I would not have thought of this historical moment even being into play - and working was not in my son's vocabulary. My elder son and husband decided they were going to the rally and I decided to join.

It was a first time to attend any function such as this for both myself and my son. Well, guess what. They, too, got to shake Obama's hand. Embracing change opens doors to new opportunities. Opportunities that are missed if one doesn't embrace change.

Thank you President-Candidate Obama for coming to Asheville, North Carolina and allowing my family and co-residents a historic opportunity. Over 20,000 people inside and out of the Asheville High School stadium, black, white, young, older, standing shoulder to shoulder, smiling, on one accord, shouting "yes we can!" What a change from 25 years ago...what a pleasant change.

PLEASE FORGIVE ME


I have been so busy caught up in the fast past of life
Work, school, community activities, and yes...a little strife

But I have often thought of you
Realizing I needed to write
And truly wanting to, too

But I was too busy caught up in the fast past of life
Please forgive me
For this is not the way it should be

Thank you for checking back
I'll do better in my slack
And communicate on a monthly basis
I do have one request of you...
Would you please communicate with me, too

Maintaining a spiritual focus has allowed my strength to endure and overcome trails and tribulations. I invite you to meditate on the thought of the month provided by:

Rev. Wayne and Andrea Purcell
The Word Made Truth Ministry
76 Livingston Street
Asheville, North Carolina 28801

(828) 279-8562

Rev. Wayne and Andrea Purcell also have a prison ministry. Please feel free to ask questions pertaining to the thought of the month.

The Blessing of Listening!

James 1:19-27

19My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. 21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.

26If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. 27Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Comments:

James the brother of Jesus is credited with writing the book of James. In the verses above he emphasizes the importance of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. I can imagine, he learnt the significance of this behavior from observing Jesus up close. Jesus was often provoked with questions that people didn’t necessarily want an answer too. Jesus always listened intently; spoke purposely, without anger and but with power, authority, and wisdom.

We as people, both in religion and in the world, often find ourselves in the mist of conflicts and misunderstandings due to our lack of good listening skills. Could it be due to the reality that we are not following God’s word and as a manner of fact, going totally in the opposite direction?

First let us determine what is listening and what it’s not. Listening is to give close attention with the purpose of hearing; to give ear; to hearken, to attend. Listening is not waiting for the other person to shut up so you can speak. It is no wonder there are so many conflicts in relationships with our lack of understanding and desire of what it take to be a good listener. Many times during the life of Jesus, he would tell his disciples things that they could not understand do their lack of ability to listen.

A good listener realizes that by listening he/she is more in tune with God. Listening is the best protection to make sure the enemy is defeated and you are blessed. Remember the words describing Jesus on the cross “He didn’t say a mumbling word.” Be very clear, when Jesus was doing his most important work; dying for our sins and reconciling us back to God, he knew not to let the enemy have place. He focused inwardly on the mission that the Father had called him to perform. We too must learn to quietly face the enemy. Many times we open our mouth before we should and provide the tools the enemy uses to defeat us.

When we listen prayerfully, humbly, and maturely God will direct us to the proper time and temperament to speak. Remember, the blessing of following God’s instructions (be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry) is the ability to overcome the trials of this world and the power to live a righteous life.

So the next time you are tempted to speak to fast, become angry quickly, and slow to listen, remind yourself that you are setting yourself up to be defeated by the enemy, ineffective in the work of Kingdom Building, and tying up your blessings from Almighty God.

Prayer:

Most Merciful and Loving God,

Thank you for your patience and goodness. I confessed that I have failed to please you by not being the listener you would desire me to be. Most kind God, plant a greater longing within by heart that I might strive to be the listener that would be pleasing in your sight. Give me spiritual ears as well as eyes that I may discern your divine and everlasting will. Thank you for the blessed assurance that when I listen (to God first, to the inner voice inside of me, and to my neighbors), I will obtain the ability to overcome the wiles of the enemy and be found to be a mature, victorious, and blessed soldier in the army of the Lord.

In the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen

Coping.org gives the following instruction to improve one’s listening skills:

• Listen carefully so that you will be able to understand, comprehend, and evaluate. Careful listening will require a conscious effort on your part. You must be aware of the verbal and nonverbal messages (reading between the lines).
• Be mentally and physically prepared to listen. Put other thoughts out of your mind. Your attention will be diverted from listening if you try to think of answers in advance.
• You can't hear if YOU do all the talking. Don't talk too much.
• Think about the topic in advance, if possible. Be prepared to listen.
• Listen with empathy. See the situation from the other's point of view. Try to put yourself in their shoes.
• Be courteous; don't interrupt. Take notes if you worry about forgetting a particular point.
• Avoid stereotyping individuals by making assumptions about how you expect them to act. This will bias your listening.
• Listen to how something is said. Be alert for what is left unsaid.
• Make certain everyone involved gets an opportunity to voice their opinions. Don't let one person dominate the conversation.
• Face those you are talking with, lean slightly forward, and make eye contact. Use body to show your interest, concern.