Our New Addition....

Our new addition to the family.....

Marcell Arian Bratton 10/29/12
Nani's poopee

Onward and Forward For The Lord

Sometimes....no most often, we are not aware of what the Lord is doing in our lives. As I sit back on my sofa or comphy chair with my legs propped up, the question occurs to me: "Lord, you are up to something in all that I am doing, but what is it?" I want to do one thing, but you have me doing something totally different. It's ok though.

I am learning to take life in strides....stressing less and thanking HIM more. Complaining does not help. After all, what in the world would I or do I have to complain about? We serve an awesome GOD, and if we allow the Holy Spirit to live (dwell) in us, we will see HIS hand in everything that is going on in our lives.

Frustration with my son has crept up in more ways than one as of late. But the one thing I can always remember my mom saying is this..."don't speak the problem, but rather pray the solution." Speaking the word of life over my son has changed my entire perspective on the way he at times gets on the nerve that has been knawed off by him over the years. That too has allowed me to move forward, trusting God to make him the man that I know he was created to be. After all, I wonder where the nerve is that I have knawed off with my Heavenly Father??? (#chuckle, chuckle)

We have a choice in life. We can dwell on the negative and suck on the lemons that life sometimes gives us, or we can praise HIM for whom all blessings flow. I choose to do the latter. I am moving onward and forward in the things of Christ. HE is my rock and my shield.....I can't breathe without him and refuse to try.

My hope is in HIM.....are you ready to move onward and forward????


Smooches,
Kiwanya
(Yes, I was Kreated to Encourage)

God Knows......

Do you need counsel, advice or help? There is no better counselor than God. He knows what He is doing in the world and in your life. He knows what you are doing and what you will do. James 1:5 is an invitation to anyone who wants to have the kind of wisdom only God can give – "If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you..." We can always count on God's all-wise counsel. 

 

 

Smooches,

Kiwanya

A New Look In Christ

So, in my search for the "NEW-found" color that I've fallen in love with, it took me forever to find just the right shade of teal. Yes....there are several different shades in this family of "blue greens." When I found it online, I rushed in to my husband and said, "babe, this weekend, I will be re-painting the trinkets that I sprayed with the not so teal color that I grabbed from Lowe's." He looked at me and just smiled. I purchased two bottles without taking my time to really find what I wanted.

We do this oh too often. We make snappy decisions, buy things without praying, say words without thinking, we act out without any regard for the consequences, etc;  I could go on and on. As I'm working on the different projects that I take on, it's a time of reflection for me. I pray, think about life, talk to the Lord and most of all I thank Him for all that He's done for me. Not for the monetary things, but because He allows me an opportunity to do His perfect will on a daily basis. 

Spray painting is a way to transform something you really don't like into something you LoVE! Not in an idol form, but into something that would look good with what you already have.This is how I look at my life in Christ. He has forgiven me for every single sin I have ever committed AND the good thing is, He didn't just cover me up with spray paint and hang me out to dry so I'd fit where ever. His blood covered a multitude of sins and what wonderful news that is. He cleanses us and then makes us not only fit to live, but to do a work for HIM.

Just as I love to make things pretty and new to me, God desires to do the same for us. We are beautiful in His sight an there is a work that needs to be done. John 9:4 reads "We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work." It's time to get busy doing what God wants us to do. Are you ready? Do you have a mind to please Him? Or do you just want to be covered by the spray paint and left to look pretty hanging on a wall or sitting on a desk? 

Crazy analogy I know, but the new look that I desire to have is the look of one that has made me complete in HIM! 

Now, on to the weekend, where I plan to re-spray my frames and such, in the "new teal!!!!!" Hey a gal's gotta enjoy life all around!

Smooches,

Kiwanya

A small nuggett......

 

 

This blessed my soul!!!!

 

Smooches....
Kiwanya

Boundaries....We All Need Them

 I have the privilege of teaching a class called "Boundaries" on Monday nights at the church this Fall. It was totally a God thing and I am super excited!!!! Speaking to women has been a passion of mine for years and to see this happen, all I can say is "YAY GOD!" After finding out I was going to India, I was told that I had to speak twice; so in order to do that, I had to prepare two different talks. As I was studying the word, praying and gathering my thoughts, the Lord told me that "this is what you have always wanted to do; this is what I have called you to do, so calm down and leave everything up to me." What an awesome God we serve!

As I have been reading the book Boundaries, it has made me realize that I have allowed so many people and things to take over my life. Things that caused unwanted stress, or shall I say no boundaries. This is when I realized some things had to change. Can I say "what a blessing this book has been."  My father is a Pastor and he would often tell the congregation before he spoke, that while penning the sermons for Sunday, they always spoke to him first. When you are speaking, if you're not being spoken to while preparing, something is wrong. I love that!!! Before you can give out, you have to take in! Look at God!!!! I am so excited, I can hardly hold it in.

Of course when you are about to do something major for the Lord, there will always be distractions. Trust me, they can come in many ways, shapes and forms. I believe that fear can even creep in. Well, sure enough, it happened. Mine just so happened to be in the form of a person. It never ceases to amaze me how subtle people can be, but I have learned that anyone can be put in your path just to see how you'll react. Whew!!!!!  All I could do is pray and ask God to help me, because I am determined not to allow that pretty little package that Satan presents, hinder the work He has for me. So, as I began to pray, God let me know that He has the entire situation under control and that I am not to worry about what people may try to do."No weapon formed against me shall prosper...." Isaiah 54:17

I am thrilled at what God is going to do. For the next 13 weeks, we will be learning how to set "Boundaries" in our lives. Much needed boundaries. We as women are in different seasons of life and every women needs to have perimeters set. God loves each of us and if you will allow him to work through you, watch what he does in your life. I am looking forward to meeting this special group of women and together setting the BOUNDARIES that are needed in our everyday lives!

Blessings,

Kiwanya

When God Moves.....

I have been praying and allowing God to do some supernatural things in my life and the results were happening so fast that I could hardly take it in. Do you know how it is when you want to see something happen so out of the ordinary that you have to pinch your self to make sure it's real after manifestation??? The thing is, you will only settle for seeing some sort of miracle or the Lord Jesus Christ himself appearing at your door. Well it doesn't quite happen like that. But it will happen the more you seek HIM and the more you get quiet before HIM; believe me, he will show you what HIS specific plan is, if YOU ALLOW HIM TOO!

We scurry through life daily, weekly, monthly even yearly asking God..."when are you going to come through for me? When are you going to show me what YOU want me to do in life for YOU?" Well, it's that still small voice that speaks to us when we get quiet. Quiet enough to listen and know that it's not YOU talking but the Holy Spirit. Oh....what a fantabulous feeling. I bought a book called "Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation, which was referred to me by my good friend Virginia. Oh by the way, it's always a good thing to mark the perfect wo-man. When they suggest books and such, take them up on it. You will either like it or not. Anywhoo...the first time I read this book, I wasn't quite feeling it because I was going every which a way mentally; where I new what I wanted to do, I hadn't found my way just quite yet.

My prayer was that I would stop vacillating and know what it was that God wanted me to do. Too often I see this. We get all caught up in the hype of things and before we know it, we are unsure and back to "praying and asking HIM what is it that you want me to do?" So I kept at it. Oh the ventures that I thought I was supposed to engage in. None gave me the satisfaction I was looking for.

By then, it was time for our India trip. And oh what a trip. It changed me from the inside out. It was there where the Lord let me know exactly what I was to do. So after returning home, I talked to my "Babe" about what my heart was feeling and where my heart was. He listened intently and he then put his hand on my heart and said "let the Lord lead you. If it's ministry you are called to do, then ministry is what you need to do." My heart leaped with joy. Not just because of what he said, but because God has placed this treasure in my life that knows what it means to follow the passion that God has put deep down on the inside of you.

Time for the new semester to start was quickly approaching. I mean faster than I had anticipated and faster than what I wanted. As I looked over the books that had come in the mail, my heart just dropped. I could not see myself finishing up something that I was so hell-bent on (sorry for the vernacular but it's so true.) a couple of years back.  The passion was GONE...and in fact, I had a meltdown after I realized all the work that this semester contained. As I cried and spoke to the Lord, I told him that this is not what I want to do. In fact, I didn't want school period. At least not this kind of schooling.

This book really spoke to the core of my spirit. And it was then that I realized what I needed to do. I am one class away from my Life Coaching Certification, one class away from my Biblical Counseling Certification and a couple of tracks in Marriage and Family Counseling. What am I wasting my time for?? I kept asking myself that question? Why not do what it takes to get where YOU are supposed to be. Ding, Ding, Ding......another light bulb came on. So without hesitation, I did what it took. By the end of September, I will be down to one online class at the Junior College. And I will have picked up on the last class for my Life Coaching Cert. It's time to get it and move forward with HIS call. Will I ever finish my degree? It's a projected goal, but it's not top priority. I will take a class a semester and see how it goes. Would I love that piece of sheep's skin in a frame in my office??? Of course, but my Certs would even look better.

Listen to the call that HE has for you. Not something that is pleasing to someone else, but pleasing to YOU and the one who has called you. HIS Perfect Will is what you are aiming for. We make it a battle that we don't have to fight. We also go through life not knowing what we are called to do and before you know it  years have gone and we are still asking HIM what HIS will is for our lives. It's never too late, but what JOY we can experience when we find out what our vocation is.

Do you know what  your vocation is????

Smooches and Blessings,

Kiwanya

My 2nd India Talk!!!

This is one of the main reasons I went to India. Enjoy!!!

Knowing Your Purpose Brings Both Freedom & Joy

Before you were born, God planned this moment in your life.  The purpose of us is far greater than our own personal fulfillment, our peace of mind or even our happiness. It goes beyond our family, our career, or even our wildest dreams or ambitions. Long before we were conceived by our parents you were conceived in the hand of God.

(Isaiah 43:7 NIV)
⁷ Everyone is called by my name, hom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.

        It is not by fate, chance or luck that we are living at this very moment. We are alive and living because God has a purpose for our lives. God made you to love “YOU” and you are his very own special creation. Did you know that there is not another single human being on this planet with the same make-up, built or DNA as you? How could one not love a God that cared enough to create you and me?

You may think that because of all that you have to endure, you might as well be an accident. Just think, if there was no God, then we would indeed be “accidents” or a random chance of the universe. But this is not the case. There is a God and he made you and me for a reason and our lives have profound meaning.

The Bible says that life is a test, life is a trust and life is a temporary assignment. To fulfill the purpose God created for us, we have to move wisdom (all that we think we know) and replace it with what the word of God says.

(Romans 12:2 NIV)
² Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.

        Once we understand that life is a test, we then realize that “nothing” is insignificant in our lives. Even the smallest incidents, has significance for our character.

(James 1:12 NIV)
 ¹² Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

Always remember that every day is an important day, and that every second is a growth opportunity to demonstrate love, develop character and depend on God. Some test may seem so big and over whelming that we may question God, where others we don’t even notice.

Never, never, ever forget that everything in our lives belong to God. Our homes, our children, our jobs, EVERYTHING! It is our privilege to enjoy, but it is also our responsibility to faithfully use it in the way God wants it to be used.

When life gets tough, when you are over whelmed with doubt or even when we see people not thinking about serving God prospering or when you begin to wonder if living for Christ is even worth it the effort, just know that there is a purpose and God has a plan.

(Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
         At this time we need to find out what HE wants most from us and to fulfill HIS plan. We are to bring pleasure to God and by doing so we are worshipping HIM. Remember that everything we do brings pleasure to God, and bringing pleasure to HIM is worship. I don’t know about you ladies, but I love to sit and worship the Lord, not for what He has done for me or for something I am anticipating, but just for who HE is. He is awesome and just to think, HE died for me, that I may have eternal life. He deserves all that I am. My very being.

God smiles when we not only trust Him, but when we worship HIM. Here are a few things that cause God to smile:

1)  God smiles when we LOVE Him far above any and everything.

2)  God smiles when we trust HIM completely.

3)  God smiles when we obey HIM.

4)  God smiles when we praise and thank HIM.

5)  God smiles when we fulfill HIS purpose in our lives.

My dear sisters, HE wants a relationship with us. God deeply loves us and all he deserves is that we love HIM with our entire being in return. Building a relationship with God and learning to love HIM and to be loved by HIM should be the main goal in our life.

(Matthew 22: 37-38)

³⁷ Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ ³⁸ This is the first and greatest commandment.

When we have a relationship with the Lord, it not only brings great joy, but we experience a freedom that we have longed for. You ask how is that? Think about it…..when you are in a relationship with some someone, say your husband or best friend, you are at liberty to be yourself. You are FREE to be you. Nothing held back. And when you don’t feel as if you have to pretend or put on an act, which brings great JOY!

One of the best expressions of love is the time. Time is one of your most precious gifts because we only have a set amount of it. When you give someone your time, you are giving them a portion of your life that you will never get back.

(I John 3:18)

¹⁸ Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.

This is one of the reasons and purposes God created up for. Whenever you give of your time you are making a sacrifice, and sacrifice is the essence of LOVE.

Knowing your purpose can bring such great joy and peace in your life and I believe that this is what most of us as women long for. It may take some time to get it, but when we allow it to be a part of our everyday lives, there is a peace that comes over us like never before, people around you will wonder how and why you can be so happy when life is so chaotic. It all comes from above. Whatever God wants to accomplish in your life, HE will…if you will allow HIM too! 

 Phil 1:6

⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Remember…..it takes time to get where we need to be in our Christian walk. Spiritual growth like physical growth…takes time!!!! While we worry about how fast we grow, God is concerned about how strong we grow. Every day God wants you to become a little more like HIM and with His word, fasting and prayer, this can happen.

Knowing your purpose brings FREEDOM & JOY!

Hope you enjoyed!!!!

Hugs,

Kiwanya

My India Visit

To all the beautiful women that God created on this earth and those faced with challenges on a daily basis, we all have a purpose in life and on this earth. My trip to India has forever changed my life in it's entirety. Below is one of the reasons I have the heart I do for women....not just because we are all different, but color strikes a pose in my life. Color adds life to EvErYtHiNG!!!! Seek God and ask Him to reveal YOUR purpose in life. Take to heart Jer. 29:11-13 and allow it to pierce your soul in a way like never before.

Hugs,

Kiwanya

Feelings of Defeat....

Whew.....can I say that again? Whew!!!! Today has been one of those days where one could doubt  God and the plan that He has for you. We serve an awesome God despite how we can allow ourselves to feel. We have to remember that He is just a call away. No matter how much we are in the word, the human side of us has a tendency to take control if you allow it to.

Maybe a good cry perhaps??? I would say YES to that. Sometimes that's what it takes to move on. Clearing your thoughts as well as your mind can put you in a good place. I often feel like after I am done wondering and thinking so hard, why didn't I trust Him enough to give him all my cares by praying and then releasing all my "stuff?"

Hmmmmm.....I really can't answer that, but the one thing I do know is that carrying your own burdens can cause great grief in your life. Grief that isn't necessary for one to have. My Heavenly Father takes pleasure in difficult situations and handling them for us. It's so simple, but instead we make it complicated. Sometimes I amaze myself. Not to mention that when you are about to do something so wonderful, Satan beefs up his attack.

It is my desire to have the "Joy of the Lord" regardless. Even in the midst of tears and heartache, having  joy should be a daily goal if you will. Remember, HE delights in giving us the desires of our hearts. One of the gifts HE gave me was my husband. I decided to talk to him about some things that were really bothering me and this is what he told me: "Babe, you have to do everything you do as if you were doing it for the Lord. Things are going to get better and the ministry that you desire will manifest." All I could do was cry because here I'm thinking he's going to side with me and tell me what I wanted to hear. Ohhhhh baby, that was nowhere near what I thought he would say, but instead, it was what I needed to hear. I am so thankful that the Lord saw fit to allow this man to find ME!!!! He knew this is what I needed to hear on a day such as today.

The more I sat and prayed on this evening, the more my spirit settled down. Where I am not totally settled with and what how things are in certain situations, I am waiting for God to show up in my life. He will never leave or forsake me, so I have to trust him in all that I do.

I am His beloved and HE loves me. Lord, I trust you and thank you for making my path clear.

XOXOXOxoxox
Kiwanya

Doing what you love to do......

This has been on my mind for I would say over the past couple of years....."Doing what you love to do." There is nothing more aggravating than having to do something because "YOU HAVE TOO." But what one has to do is "DO IT" until it's your time. Lord help me.....we often cry out, but you know that it's all in HIS timing. SO, with that you choose to do what you gotta do until what you want to do manifested in the natural. Don't complain, keep a smile on my face and keep your best kept little secret to yourself or to those that are closes to you...

Have you ever been in that situation? Many people are or have been. The more I pray and read HIS word, I realize that there are seasons in our lives and we have to "wade the water" so to speak. If we can't be content where we are while we work diligently on what our hearts desire is, we won't be able to move forward.  It can be so difficult at times. You see others getting praise for what they do and you often question yourself....and then the anticipation of moving forward grows more intensely than ever. If you ever feel like you don't fit in, it's probably not because you don't, but because you are in the wrong place.

Praying and seeking the Lord should take precedence over everything if you are struggling with where you are. This is what I have been doing. Jeremiah 29:11 reads... "For I know the plans I have for you  declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This is one of my all time favorite scriptures and as long as I know this I can move forward. It doesn't pay to complain, have a bad attitude, be disgruntled, or the like....trust me, it doesn't help matters at all. Pray hard and ask HIM to help you make it through each and everyday. This is why you should give your day over to HIM first thing in the morning.

Doing what you want to or to put it more plainly, doing what God wants you to do may seem like it's so way out there, but know it's not. It takes time to get everything you have in the works "worked out." Be patient and TRUST God for everything. He's working everything out for your good.

Smooches,
Kiwanya

It's been a while.....

Yes, it's been a while since I've posted, but things have brewing srtonger than ever in my life. Not only am I preparing for my India trip, but I had the most amazing vacation ever. You want to know where I went? What exotic Island did I visit? What sandy Beach did I walk arcoss? None of the above. Well, I take that back, my hubby and I did walk along the Gulf of Mexico's Crystal Beach. But when I say I had an amazing time off, I did.

I worked on projects that I had line up and waiting for me, I re-arranged furniture, completed projects, spent time with the Lord, came and went as I pleased, thrift shopped, resaled, antiqued, ate, etc; when I say AMAZING, it was beyond that. Resting is often the best vacation that we can have. With my amazing hubby being busy working with some rather timely projects, he did manage to take a day off and we drove to Galveston Island. It was truly amazing.

So here is is, almost the end of June. Summer has finally arrived, but time is moving at the speed of light it seems like. Before we know it school will be back in session. Yep, I said it. While I don't have any little ones running around (I have the empty nest thingy in full effect over here) but my classes resume August 27th. Until that day, I have sooooo much to do and to look forward to .

School is something that I know I will finish, eventually, but right this very second, everytime I think about it, I say "YUCK." Why I feel the way I do about it is beyond me, but it is apart of my life, so.....I have to suck it up and do what I gotta do.

God is doing some amazing things in my life and what I thought could never be is actually coming to fruition. Talking about sheer excitement.....You can't even imagine how and what I'm feeling at this time. All I can tell you gals is this: "Timing is everything and when the time is right, you will know it."

Toodles for now!!! Remember...they that wait upon the Lord.....

XOXO
Kreated to Encourage

Waiting....

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isiah 40:31

Whenever I read that scripture, my mind immediately goes to an eagle soaring across the sky. As I did a little research on the eagle this is what I came up with: They have relatively longer and more evenly broad wings and are very fast in flight. Their keen eyesight which is primarily contributed by their extremely large pupils, which ensure minimal scattering of the incoming light. The female of all species of eagles known are larger than the male. Eagles normally build their nests in tall trees or on high cliffs.

Now when I re-read the scripture, my perspective is a little different. Take a look at where it says, "they mount up with wings as eagles." I thouht to myself, how awesome is that?  An eagles wings are evenly broad and very fast in flight. Can I say it again??? They are very fast in flight. To me that could mean several things, but fast in flight is when they have their boogie on....they are moving at top speed. Anything moving that fast doesn't have time to think about any problems or difficulties in it's path. How could it, it's going to fast.

This is what waiting on the Lord means to me.....I'm moving full speed ahead. There may be obstacles that I am faced with, but while I wait upon the Lord, I have to keep it moving. How are you coping with life, family, that job that you aren't so happy with, that disruptive child, bills that can't be paid?

These are all challenges that we are faced with every single day, but know that it's going to get better. ‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ Isaiah 41:10

All I have is His word to stand on..... You see patience was never one of my strong points, and believe you me, I still have my days, but I have no choice but to keep it going and believe with all my heart that as I wait I can have the joy that comes from the Lord and the peace that passes all understanding.

How are you waiting? Are you like that eagle that soars above circumstances or are you wallowing in self pity? You don't have too.....everything you need is in His word and if you 'll trust Him, you will find out that it was all worth it.

Remember....."they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isiah 40:31

Smooches,

Kiwanya

A Taste of Nature, Pt 2

Here are the remaining three pics my sweetie shot! Just beautiful!!!

Smooches,
Kiwanya

A Taste of Nature

Here is a little something out of the ordnaire'.....compliments of my hubby! He is good at just about any and everything he does....including photography (yep, I'm bragging on my guy.) I think these pics are absolutely gorgeous and to see God's best displayed is a sight to behold. My blessing from God......thanks honey. I love you and thank you Jesus for giving us such wondrous sights to set our eyes on....

P.S.......I have a few more to post just to let you see "A Taste of Nature."


Smooches,
Kiwanya

A Song That Has Touched My Soul....

This song has been on my mind and in my heart for days!!!! Take a listen and let it bless you too!


Smooches,
Kiwanya

Transparency

Ok.....so here are a few pics of me from a photo shoot I did back in 2009. I haven't changed a bit, in fact, I would say that minus all the work done on me, I look even better without it. (I'm talking make-up here)

When I look at pics that I have taken as well as others, I often think to myself, WOW....look how good we can look to have an inanimate object snap a quick shot remembering that very moment.

We don't even remember the what we looked like, but we do remember taking the picture. Beholding the image from the cameras view.

All the emphasis put on taking the pic. Getting glammed up, our hair all did, the perfect earrings, and not to mention the time and effort put into what we will wear.

But when it comes to the things of Christ, where is the hype? Where is the thrill? The excitement? Paying close detail to his word? Making sure that we read and re-read HIS word with such excitement.

There is a single adjective that keeps coming to mind; and it's the word "TRANSPARENCY." The thing is, God already knows every core of our being, but we try our best to cover up the blemishes to make people think we have it all together.

Because HE knows us like he does, what should really matter is how are we existing with him? How are we living? Is HE the head of our life? How is our heart and soul? Is it dolled up with the Word of the Lord? Do we go before the throne and ask God to open the eyes and our understanding so that when we are in HIS word, it speaks directly to us? Or are we too busy with the cares of this life?

Are we filtering in any and everything harmful to our soul? Being transparent allows you to walk in forgiveness and to be the forgiver of others. The cleansing of the soul allows you to become the person that you were created to be.

It took me a long time to get to this point and I still struggle with "things," but my cry to my Heavenly Father daily is this: Lord create in me a clean heart. Allow me to be the woman you want me to be. Forgive me for not forgiving and help me be true not only to myself, but to you first.

Become the person that God sees you as...the person that you know you are suppose to be inside and out!

Smooches!!!!
Kiwanya

God's Timing

Ahhhh........God's timing. It's perfect! We may not think so, but it really is. Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has a plan and a purpose for us. I have to be perfectly honest with you. This is something that I have struggled with like forever. And to be honest, it wasn't until recently that I realized if I don't allow God to work in my life as only HE can, I am only hurting myself. God has a way of preparing us for the task that he had planned for us before we were conceived. Adapting can be so hard though; well especially for me. I'm a "right now kinda chick," and having to wait...whew! I have been doing a James study by Beth Moore, and she along with the book of James pretty much kicked my patooty...if you will. Patience has beat me up and caused to to wait.....and believe! Waiting on the Lord brings special blessings and such peace. I can attest to that because I dated my now husband for four years and while I thought I was ready early on in the relationship, I knew I wasn't. It was just the idea of marriage. But when it happened, it was well worth the wait. They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. My strength has truly been renewed....not only on that special day, but everyday!!! Wait on God's timing. Remember, you are unique and so different from any other woman God created. He has your life planned out to a tee!!!

Be Blessed!!!

A New Day, A new Feeling....

Lot's happened for me on last week. First off I saw a wonderful woman that prayed with me and helped me "empty myself" out before the Lord. How refreshing is that? There had been some things deep down inside that I thought I had rooted up and released; not to mention forgiven. But I realized that I hadn't. Not forgiving myself and walking in total forgiveness towards others was holding me back. Whew....... I really didn't know how all this was holding me back and not allowing me to move forward in the things of HIM. My ring tone is, "I Feel Good, by James Brown......it may be a little out there for some, but whenever I hear that song, it allows me to know how good I really feel in Christ. Walking in total forgiveness does something to you that you never imagined. If there are some things holding you back, take self inventory and ask God to reveal whatever it is to you. Most often, we know what and who we have the ought with. Once you make that one time decision to release it and let it go, you will feel 100% better. It's a new day, and I have a new feeling!

A Much Needed Break

Ahhhhh......is the word that comes to mind. At this moment, I should be logged on doing one of the three assignments that are due by Wednesday, then trying to figure out what's due for Thursday, Friday, so on and so on....well, after much prayer and thought, I have decided to give my mind a much needed break from the what would have been my first mini-mester. After taking a look at the syllabus, I cringed...literally. So, I dropped my class. I know that there are some things that I want to do and I could have waited until after June 1st, but I didn't want to go through the stress of the next three weeks. I guess I can say....Yay God! I really need this time to rejuvenate and get my thoughts together. Spending quality time with my Heavenly Father is what this summer is all about. Don't get me wrong, it's not just about the summer, because it will go further than that, but this is my start. School had me all out of whack, and this is the start of something new spiritually for me! Sometimes, we can put more on ourselves that we ought too, then we cry out for help. This was one of those times where I cried out and asked for God's help so that I would make the right decision so I can get about HIS business. Well, here I am. When you have something pressing on you, pray and ask God for guidance. He will guide you in the way you should go. School will be there next semester, along with the three classes (hahaha maybe) but for now, this is my time to feed what my soul is thirsting for, and that's HIM!!!!

Classes....

OK....so here I am down to my last final of the semester. Yay God!!!!!! Then, starting Monday, May 14th, let the mini-mester begin. Ooh baby.......On a different note, I have been a little overwhelmed as of late, but after talking to my hubby and a couple of good friends, I think I'm gonna take it down a notch. I'm not leaving school, but instead of taking 3-4 classes per semester like a mad woman, I have decided to take a minimum of two. Am I in a rush to finish? You have nooooo idea how bad. But I can't kill myself in the interim. One of the things that I have been lacking is my time with the Lord; and that's a big no no! I have been so convicted by this because my walk with the Lord is way more important than all the classes in the world. Only HE can give me the strength that I need for my studies, but the lack of time has been that of a big weight on my shoulders. As I pray and seek the Lord, I have to do this or spiritually I won't be fit to encourage. All prayers are welcome!

India

I am so excited at what God is doing in general.  I will be going to India in August. Here are a few pics of that beautiful County. Isn't God just AWESOME???? I will feel so honored to be able to share with one person in Patna. Just one word of encouragement will make a world of difference in the lives of those seeking the Lord. Yay God!!!!

Oh How Pretty......

Have you ever looked at something and said "oh, that's so pretty?" I know I have. What about when you look in the mirror? Is that what you say to yourself?  So many times, I looked in the mirror and said just the opposite. My self esteem was at an all time low. There was nothing that (so I thought)  would ever get me back to the place where I knew God had created me to be. Life happens so often, but life doesn't have to get you. We are so loved by our Heavenly Father and once we realize that, you will look at yourself in a whole different manner. You have to want to get there. And believe you me, it doesn't come easy. After years and years of beating yourself up and enduring the mental abuse and anguish that has been inflicted on you (or that you allowed to happen to yourself) you start questioning God asking Him is this the way it's going to be? The key to letting it all go was forgiveness for me. That was one of the hardest things that I had to do. I had years of hatred and bitterness built up in my heart and mind and that made it difficult to allow what God had for me to manifest. Once I prayed, forgave and then asked God to forgive me for all that I did, I could see the transformation. It didn't happen over night and believe you me, I see a difference every single day.  I have my moments, but I serve a God that is willing and able to help us it every single day. So now, when I look in the mirror I'm not being vain when I say..."oh, how pretty." I see myself as God sees me.


Smooches,
Kiwanya

Ahhhhh........PEACE! Isn't that something we all desire? Even in the midst of everything that we have going on in our lives, we can still have that peace that surpasses our understanding. At one time, I didn't have peace. My mind was in a state of chaos, but when I made up my mind that I wanted the Lord's help and really meant it, that is when I began to feel different. More different than I ever had. Another thing that helped me was getting into the word. I men really spending time with God and trusting that HE was able to take care of what I couldn't and then know that regardless, peace was a choice. Choose peace my friends! There is nothing better than, but there is nothing worse than walking around with "no peace" which shows all over your face (well at least mine anyways) and it just creates a wall that you don't want to start building. Find comfort in HIS word.

Phil 4:7 reads:  And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Trust God and HIS word. He will never let you down!

It's The Weekend Baby.....

Whoop bam pow!!!! It's the weekend. Do you have any special plans this weekend? Not a whole lot going on in my world. Lunch with my daughter on tomorrow, time with my grandson and then study time. I enjoy the "What I have to do's" in life. What I want to do is something that I just do. Like spending time in the word, reading the two books that I'm reading, scrap booking and spending time with my hubby. Gotta love the simple things in life. We have the power to make our lives what we want too. I choose happiness.....what about you? I choose joy, what about you? I choose to live a life filled with purpose and be totally authentic. It's just not that hard. But we make it harder than it has to be. Remember.......we were created in HIS image and if we can remember this, we would know it's gonna be ok. Be Encouraged because that's what you were Kreated to do!

Encourage Someone!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful week so far. God has been doing some really great things and it's all because I refuse to allow anyone or anything to come in between our relationship/fellowship. Living the life of obedience is a choice that I made and I love it! Love God first and then choose to love YOU!!!!! Be a blessing and encourage someone this week.

New Week, New Blessing

What are you expecting from God this week? Or shall I ask, what are you planning to do for God this week? Keep the ear in your spirit open and ready to listen to what God has for you this week. He blessed us yet another day to be a blessing. Encourage, encourage, encourage!!! That is one of the many things we were "Kreated"for. Have a marvelous day!

Today on Radio

Today on Radio


What a wonderful message. So appropriate for what we all need!

Are you happy on this morning? Is it because it's Friday or do you just naturally feel happy because God chose to allow you one more day to praise HIM, encourage someone or extend a hand to one in need........ I could go on and on. I am "HAPPY" for all of those reasons and many more. God is so faithful and just because he gives us chance after chance and opportunity after opportunity to do what HE wants us to do. We should not only be happy but grateful. Enjoy your day and remember to encourage someone. Your life could be a whole lot worse than what you think it is!

Excitement!

How excited am I? When I looked up the word excitement, it means: A feeling of great enthusiasm and eagerness. I had lunch with my boss and I can say that she's the best. After really talking to her, I realized that we are so much alike and that we basically want the same things. We both love Ministry and it makes so much since seeing that we work at a church. Well honestly, I can't blame it on working at a church because God chooses whoever he wants. But what an incredible place to be associated with. Patience is the key though. Allowing God to take us step by step is to me one of the hardest things to do. I'm the type that wants to help Him out a little, but the more I get in the word, the more I have to step back and let Him do the work that He wants to do in my life. Vavavoom........ there you have it. WAIT ON ME!!! That's all I keep hearing. But.....my heart, my heart, my heart. My heart cries out for the young women that are lost and have no idea as to where to go, how to go, or even where to start. Now how excited is one supposed to be to want to be the miracle in the life of a young woman because it's what God wants you to do? Think about it. Nothing pleases God more than to seek and save the lost. God is awesome and I'm sticking to those words. Whoop, bam pow! I am more excited that you'll ever know!!!!!

Good things are always happening.....

Like when I got married almost two months ago....check out a couple of my pics! I totally love this man with all my heart! My Godsend....yay!

His Word Speaks To Us....

We throw our doors open to God and discover at the same moment that He has already thrown open His door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand - out in the wide-open spaces of God's grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise. (Romans 5:2)

Peace

Whoop there it is......at the close of our James study on yesterday evening, my prayer request was for peace. Then low and behold when I open up my Jesus Calling book on this morning, the first sentence reads "Peace is my continual gift to you." How awesome is that? God is amazing! I already have it...all I have to do is start trusting God and know that I know that I know that peace is mine during any given situation. Will it be easy all the time? Nope, but my trust in our Heavenly Father reassures me that it's his continual gift to me!Have a wackky and wonderful Wednesday!!!!!

Here We Go......

Ok...so here it goes.......Today was a wonderful day and I can assure you that it didn't start off that way. It amazes me the people God places in our lives. I have a friend and I can truly say "friend" named Virginia and when I went to her office on this afternoon to vent as I quite often do, the entire conversation went from blah, blah, blah, to Yay God over and over and over again. It was simply amazing. Hence, my new blog. The crazy thing is I had created a blog a couple of years ago which was tied to my future business (which I will one day reopen it) but I could not for the life of me remember nor find the password. If you take a look at it, my last post date was over a year ago. It saddens me, but all this happened because I was "Kreated to Encourage." So here we are! This go round, it will be totally different. That I promise. Will I post everyday? I don't know, but as often as I can, I will. I have to make sure that I speak into the lives of those that are hurting. No matter how mundane, encouragement helps. I was and still am encouraged on a daily basis, so I want to do and be the same to others.