He Shall Sustain You - Psalm 55:22

He Shall Sustain You

By Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris

Weird thoughts running through my mind

Chills run the length of my spine

Whispers run softly through my ears

“Sit still, you’ll be fine. On me you are to cast your fears”

Still I consider the weather changing as the storms in my life are raging

I see the sky turn grey, my life is in disarray

I hear the thunder roar

Behind these walls is so much noise

Yet I feel a gentle touch

Warmly reminding me to keep my poise

That same touch grabs my heart

Caressing it back to a pleasant place

One I thought had been replaced

I see now these times last but for a moment

Though it feels like a lifetime

So once again I release my doubts, fears and worries

Believing God truly does carry

Carry all of the burdens

For He is my strong tower

In Him is life and magnificent power

Power to calm the sea, to stop the thunder, to turn grey skies blue

He has the power to do what HE wants to.

In Him is my resting place

Psalm 55:22

Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you;

He shall never permit the righteous to be moved

 

It's Not Easy Being You

“I know It’s Not Easy Being You”

I know it’s not easy being you…

Yes, you’ve shed one tear to many, spent nights awake searching for peace and contentment. You’ve treated others with love only to find yourself depleted from lack of receiving the same. Yes, you’ve done the best you could raising that family.  You’ve worked hard on your job yet you’re still being held in a position that does not allow you to expand, grow and demonstrate all your skills and abilities.  Yes, I know you’ve suffered the loss of close relatives all within close proximity to one another. 

I know it’s simply not easy being you… 

I know you’re still struggling with your identity as a faith filled believer, maybe you still feel the resistance of depression clinging to you though you’ve rebuked it and been set free a time or two before.  You may be challenged in your marriage and other relationships.  You have forgiven him, her and them far too many times yet they still bring hurt and pain to the doorway of your heart.  You’ve been chasing after the heart of God waiting for him in what you believe is a patient manner.  You seek God, desiring a closer walk, only to fall short to the lust of the flesh, or by using those words you know tear others down and maybe even being impatient in waiting on God’s will to be done. 

I KNOW it’s not easy being you…

And yes, I know you’ve been waiting on an answer, waiting for God to heal you as you watch others come out with a clean bill of health.  You’ve struggled with the why you have not been set free, delivered or healed…Well let me remind you of this one thing, you ARE the elect of the Lord.  God has not forgotten you.  Continue pressing forward.

May Colossians 3:12-17 stand as a reminder; that you are the elect of God -- You are Holy and beloved! So continue putting on the tender mercies of God, sharing in kindness with humility and meekness – continuing through longsuffering, remembering not only God’s promises of tomorrow but knowing that He has set you free before YESTERDAY and days past.  God has delivered you before.  God has healed you before (even if it was just a simple headache or cold).  Be patient.  Continue loving, even those who persecute and wrongfully judge.  Keep forgiving those who hurt you.  Let the peace of God rule in your heart and be thankful in and through all things.  Let your light grow, demonstrate the wisdom of God by what you say and do, continuing as an example in the earth and do all these things in the name of the Lord knowing He is your strength, your help, your redeemer and it is HE who eases every burden, big and small – Have faith and do NOT quit being you…although I know, it’s not easy being you.

PRAYER:

O LORD, MY GOD, MAKER OF ALL THINGS, GIVER OF LIFE, FREER OF SOULS, LOOSE THE CONTENTION IN THE ATMOSPHERE THAT THESE, MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS, YOUR CHILDREN MAY KNOW YOUR LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS.  GRANT US A PEACE, SUSTAIN US AND HEAL WITH YOUR MIGHTY POWERFUL HAND AS ONLY YOU CAN. LET US NOT GROW WEARY IN WELL DOING.  REMIND US WITH EVERY BREATH WE BREATHE THAT YOU ARE NEAR.  GROW US IN OUR FAITH AND IN LOVE.  HELP US TO FORGIVE JUST AS YOU HAVE FORGIVEN.  SHOW US OUR WORTH IN YOU.  LORD, REMOVE FEARS, DOUBTS AND ANY UNREST IN OUR SOULS.  THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DOWN IN OUR LIVES.  LORD I ASK THAT YOU NOT REMOVE YOURSELF FROM US FOR WE NEED YOU MORE TODAY THAN YESTERDAY.  THANK YOU FORNEW MERCIES, IT IS IN YOUR HOLY, RIGHTEOUS AND PRECIOUS NAME I PRAY IN FAITH AND LOVE, AMEN

It's Too Much for Me

“It’s too Much for Me”

Romans 12:9-16

Let love be without hypocrisy.  Abhor what is evil.  Cling to what is good.  Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; no lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. 

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.  Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.  Be of the same mind toward one another.  Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble, do not be wise in your own opinion.

I dreamed I was “supposed” to be a passenger on a boat but when we set sail the captain asked me to check the deck and make sure everything was in its proper place.  I had no problem checking the deck so I did.  When I came back I saw an old college friend and we chatted for a while.  The captain interrupted our conversation asking me to check on and maintain the children as they were getting a little out of control.  Just as I got them to settle down and was about to sit to relax, I was asked to climb to the top of the boat and watch for trouble.  Now I did this but as I climbed to the top I asked myself, “What are you doing?  You didn’t come here for this!  You don’t even like heights!”

To those watching I was doing what I was asked to do but on the inside I was freaking out about the task.  When I reached the top I did not see any trouble but then the winds picked up and began blowing the thin string I was holding on to.  I was afraid and said to myself even more, “This is not your job.  Why are you up here? This is too much.”  The winds calmed and I climbed down.  Again I thought I would be able to rest as a regular passenger but I was asked to entertain the other guests.  The list went on and on with things for me to do and I did them, hesitant at first but then happy to do them because at least they did not require climbing. 

At the end of the trip, the boat was docked and everyone dismounted the boat.  We were supposed to take the children on a tour but I was tired.  I decided I would stay on the boat to rest but the captain insisted I come with him, saying they had something for me.  Reluctantly I climbed off the boat and followed everyone.  We entered a huge restaurant and to my surprise I was the guest of honor.  Everyone there celebrated me, serving me hand and foot.  I had a major feast, tasting everything in and out of sight.  It was wonderful!

When I woke up I looked around seeing the many tasks I needed to complete, remembering the many hats I wear daily as mother, friend, sister, aunt, business owner, minister, mentor, teacher and more.  Some hats I asked to wear and others I had no clue I would have the opportunity, pleasure, calling or gifting to wear.   As I consider the dream and its parallel to my everyday living according to the word of God I am reminded to be selfless.  Just as God watches our every move, so have we the eyes of people, watching, ridiculing, scrutinizing and judging; they even hope to learn from us.  They wait to see how we handle what comes our way.  They listen to see if we complain.  They watch how we love others. 

In the end we must remind ourselves to be encouraged, rejoicing in all things.  We must be steadfast, diligent and loving, wearing our hats, taking on the challenges that come our way, helping others with patience and gentleness.  Even when the tasks seem too much to accomplish or appears too much to bear alone; fear not as you are both chosen and equipped for every task.  I encourage you today to be diligent, rejoicing in the hope of the Lord, serving others with gladness, being patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer while tending to the needs of others with hospitality. 

NOW SAY THIS WITH ME:

IT’S NOT TOO MUCH FOR ME!!!

SICKNESS, NO DISEASE, NIETHER PARENTHOOD, NOR MARRIAGE, NOT MY JOB, THE EMPLOYEES, NONE OF THE BILLS, FINANCIAL CHALLENGES, WAR INSIDE MY HEAD, HOME AND THROUGHOUT THE WORLD, NOT THE JUDGMENT, MY PERSECUTORS, NOR THOSE WHO STAND AGAINST ME, NO HOUSE OR CAR, NOT FEAR, BEING MOTHERLESS OR FATHERLESS, NO ABUSER, NO INSECURITY, NOT CLASSISM, SEXISM, RACISM, NO PAST ISSUE, NO WICKEDNESS THAT SEEKS MY LIFE…NONE OF THIS IS TOO MUCH FOR ME!   

GOD IS MY SUSTAINER AND MY STRENGTH.  I SHALL ENDURE WITH PATIENCE, KINDNESS AND LOVE FOR WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE AND NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!!!

How Long

“How Long”

It is easy to rejoice when a baby is born or when he takes his first steps.  Certainly we learn to celebrate that same child throughout his life, preparing him along the way for greater blessings.  It’s easy to rejoice when a new love is found, a union is formed, vows are made and new life begins.

Dare I make the analogy comparing the fate of an oppressed people who for too long sits idly pointing fingers having forgotten its first love?  A people who fight against itself, having converted from physical chains to mental, social, emotional and all other forms of bondage.  When will we wake up celebrating where it all began for us? When will we remember our first steps of freedom? When will we remember our heritage? When will we repent cast away differences and ban together as one union in love? When will we receive our land, not the American dream, built with the blood of many from foreign nations but the promises of God? 

Everything in the earth was freely given to us by our creator.  He commanded that we put nothing and no one before him.  Yet we pay for the waters which fall freely from the mountains springs, with many making claims that it belongs solely to him.  We place money, power and even the gems of the earth before God.  We allow these things to lead us instead of being led by the spirit of God.  These things bring strife and envy, leading to murder and other chaotic destructions. 

Here we stand in a barren land believing it is our plenty.  We have been in this land with its struggles for long enough.  Much like the prophet Jeremiah I see us as a people still trying to live according to a society that has lost its way.  Having been founded on biblical principles now lost in false hopes, idolizing the paper that comes from the trees…the trees which are our life.  We tear down every resource that was placed in the earth, contaminate all the waters from end to end, search outside of the earth, amongst the stars because of foolish curiosity, arrogance and ungratefulness, building houses and hotels on the moon as if the earth isn’t enough.

Just as Jeremiah’s heart sunk so does mine, for to watch the people, an oppressed people run, scared and weary fighting against one another disheartens me.  How long will we stand disconnected from the very thing that keeps us?  How long will we remain stubborn and unmoved? How long will we kill for personal gain, keep others bound with chains, and stripe our children’s children from their heritage and promises of plenty? How long will we ignore the poor in heart, poor in spirit and just the plain poor? How long will we watch others suffer when we have the ability to aid, guide, support and protest? How long?  How long will we allow this system of oppression to keep us bound?  How long???

I WANT MY FREEDOM!!!

RECOMMENDED SCRIPTURE READINGS:

Lamentations (all 5 books)

Wrestling with Demons

Wrestling with Demons

This past March, 2011, my sister Karen died.  She was only thirty-three.  Ever since she made her transition I have fought with myself considering the parallels of our lives.  Why is it that we experienced many of the same struggles but I am here and she is not?  I have considered the battle that began when we were little girls.  My sister had “abnormal” experiences with the spirits. 

One night while my family slept Karen began screaming in a high pitched voice.  My mom, step-dad, brothers, sister and I scrambled, dazed and afraid of what we would see upon entering her bedroom.  As my step-dad turned on the light Karen sat erect in bed, grasping the covers with wild eyes as tears streaked her cheeks.   My mom began asking her what was wrong.  She looked as though she saw a ghost.  After three attempts of asking what was wrong, Karen blurted out, “It was a lot of them”.  We were all confused.  My oldest brother asked if she had seen mice.  She shook her head and said, almost yelling, “NO, spirits…it was a lot of them.”  

Karen wrestled with these same demons, or spirits as some may say, all the rest of her life until the day she transitioned.  My cousin told me just before my sister died she had been in the bathroom for half an hour telling him the voices would not stop talking to her.  My cousin said when Karen finally emerged from the bathroom she looked dazed as if she’d been fighting.  She told him the demons were telling her to just give up, just quit, give up and quit.  It was there she fell in the floor, took her last breath and died.  The doctors and coroner said it was natural causes, others say she was simply crazy but I say it was spiritual warfare.

My battle is not necessarily my sister’s battle but I’ve had my share of voices telling me to just quit.  Even now I often hear the voice of doubt trying to discount, discredit and discourage me from growing in the purpose God created for my life.  I could have died just like my sister but each time death came it was met with resistance from me.  I determined in my spirit that I would live out the purpose for my life and would not die.  The demon of depression came but I beat it.  The demon of a broken heart came, I cried a lot but pushed forward having my heart restored…I won that battle also.  Sickness and disease came, I conquered that too.   

See, we all have our own demons to wrestle with.  Some see with their natural eyes, some with their spirits but we all have unexplainable encounters, ones we acknowledge and those we do not.  God has already determined the outcome but it’s you that must stand resolved in your faith or give in and be consumed by those spirits that come to steal, kill and destroy.  My suggestion, put on the whole armor of God that you may have the proper tools to not only wrestle with your demons but to win every battle.

 May God’s grace, mercy and favor be with you.  May the battles of your mine be resolved.  May your faith increase.  May your peace grow in abundance.  May you be enlightened with the wisdom of God.  May you stand fearless, knowing God’s Angels war on your behalf.  May you overcome your days of wrestling with demons with victory and triumph. In Jesus Name, Amen

Ephesians 6:13-18
Wherefore take up the whole armor of God,
that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand. 
Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; withal taking up the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God:
all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the Spirit,
and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints

Everything has an opposite

Everything has an opposite…

Psalm 107

4-They wandered in the wilderness in a desert way;
they found no city of habitation.
5-Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.
6- Then they cried unto Jehovah in trouble,
and he delivered them out of their distresses,
7-He led them also by a straight way,
that they might go to ta city of habitation.
8-Oh that men would praise Jehovah for his loving-kindness,
and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
9-For he satisfieth the longing soul,
and the hungry soul he filleth with good
10-Such as sat in darkness and in the shadow of death
being bound in affliction and iron
11-Because they rebelled against the words of God,
and contemned the counsel of the Most High:
12-Therefore he brought down their heart with labor;
they fell down, and there was none to help
13-Then they cried unto Jehovah in their trouble,
and he saved them out of their darkness

Everything in the earth has its opposites.  All that goes up must come down.  If you go out, you had to first go in.  If you have the ability to turn left, you have an opportunity to turn right.  Dark streets are filled and brightened with its opposite, light in the form of lamp posts.   

At some time in my life I lived opposite all that I live now.  I was fearful but now am both bold and courageous.  Once my ears were closed to all things beautiful but now I can hear even the birds as they sing.  My lips were bound with silence but now I speak with power and authority.  My eyes saw with limits in black and white but now my vision is full of vivid colors.  My heart was closed and I could feel nothing but now my heart is open to love with every fabric of my being.

Most of all, I once was lost, but now am found.  I was lost without hope, lost without focus, lost to my burdens, lost in my mind, lost to strongholds, lost without faith…But finally one day at my lowest point I decided to change.   I wanted better and therefore decided; in order to have better I must first think better.  I decided to change my mind, making every negative a positive, turning every wrong turn into a right turn.

Now my hope is built on a solid rock.  I am no longer bound by the past, ill thinking, deceit, manipulation, or words…not even my own words.  I am no longer dead but I am now alive.  Free to live a fuller, healthy, more vibrant and fulfilling life.  Why?  Because I declared it from my mouth and spirit and am living it!  I am actualizing positives even with negative forces trying to tear down that hope which is now built.  Certainly, everything has its opposite.  How are you handling the opposites in your life?

Psalm 107 says give thanks to God which means we were possibly murmuring and complaining during difficulties.  I say make the change, decide to rejoice and give thanks instead and in advance.  Psalm 107 goes on to say the people were in the wilderness, a city with no habitation.  They were hungry and thirsty but just as they cried out in their trouble; God delivered them from their distresses.  He took them from a desolate place to a place full of life with resources.  The text goes on and on proving the point of opposites.  Everything empty became full and so forth and so on.

I want to encourage you this day, every pain has its end just as Ecclesiastes 3 says there is a time and place, a season for all things so make up your mind to see your opposites workout for your good.  The word declares it in Romans 8:28 all things work together for good.  Again I ask, how are you handling the opposites in your life?  Declare from your mouth that your negatives are your positives! Speak LIFE!!!

I'm on Fire, Fire on me

“I’m on Fire, Fire on me”
By: Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris

Hot and bothered
Teetering on explosions edge
A Woman with an intense fire
Spirit exposed
Burning with passion
Fire devours oxygen
Giving increase to its flames
Consuming some
Stirring others
The Elders say, “Control yourself”
The young say, “On with it”
I say, “Lord help me”

Reflections enter my mind of the first time a passionate fire ignited in my soul.  My heart raced uncontrollably; almost visibly pounding out of my chest.  My breathing had no syncopated rhythm.  Beads of sweat formed lines on my forehead creating streaks on my face.  It was as if every moment were in hells fire.  When I spoke my voice trembled with a deep, rich, bold texture – It said, “Hey!  I really mean what I say and you need to listen to me”. 

Whether defending my character, fighting for justice and equality, expressing my feelings with hopes to convince that special someone my love was pure or in the midst of heated discussions in class, one could always see the spark in my eyes.  Daily I strive to continue with the same consistent, intense passion and desire to assist others, to improve the quality of life for all and to enjoy living – fully living.  Often I wonder why some try to douse my enthusiasm for life, love and liberty.  There are times when certain tasks seem too difficult to accomplish by myself.  In those moments I look for persons possessing the same zeal and commitment to life as I embrace.   

The fire makes known its presence in every area of my life.  Attracting others to the light of my fire and we combine as one, creating an explosion drawing attention and focus to the purpose of life.  It’s important for us to forego the shame of our deep sense of connection to the earth, to people, to living – We, the fire starters and carriers should NOT act in the manner others expect, as we are NOT duplicates in approach to resolutions.  I say, “Lord help me, as I get on with it”.  So long as I breathe, my fire shall not die, therefore my passion cannot fade.

I encourage you to grasp an ember, sparking your own flames, lighting paths, changing the world as we know it! Be on fire and let the fire be on you!!!

SAY THIS PRAYER:

Lord God I thank you for allowing the ember to catch hold of my spirit, creating a trail that connected my heart, mind, body and spirit.  Thank you for the charge you give to me daily to LIVE, simply live.  Lord, help me to remain committed to the purpose for which you designed me.  Breathe on me. Breathe in me. Decrease the voices of the naysayers and increase the fire within that it may consume negativity and give life to positives, changing this world daily.  Bless me in my going out and my coming in.  Shield me with your hand of protection.  With passionate fire I seek your will to be done in my life and on earth as it is in heaven, In Christ name I pray, Amen.

Ezekiel 1:4-28

Then I looked, and behold, a whirlwind was coming out of the north, a great cloud with raging fire engulfing itself; and brightness was all around it and radiating out of its midst like the color of amber, out of the midst of the fire…and each one went straight forward; they went wherever the spirit wanted to go, and they did not turn when they went…their appearances was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches going back and forth among the living creatures.  The fire was bright, and out of the fire went lightning.  And the living creatures ran back and forth, in appearance like a flash of lightning…Wherever the spirit wanted to go, they went, because there the spirit went…for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels…Also from the appearance of His waist and upward I saw, as it were, the color of amber with the appearance of fire all around within it; and from the appearance of His waist and downward I saw, as it were, the appearance of fire with brightness all around.  Like the appearance of a rainbow in a cloud on a rainy day, so was the appearance of the brightness all around it.  This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord.

August Meet Up & Prayer Call Update

Women's Monthly Meet Up is an opportunity to enjoy fellowship with like-minded women.  During the "Meet Up", we pray, discuss the book of the month, enjoy lite fare and open discussion on topics ranging from but not limited to; being single, dating, marriage, family, love, sex, domestic violence, abortion, politics, finances, submitting our will to God, buying a home and various other topics that impact and affect us on a daily basis.  The objective is to provide support and encouragement through fellowship and discussion.

Being whole is the goal...Mind, Body and Spirit! 
Join us for the next "Women's Meet Up":
Saturday, August 27, 2011, 5pm - 7pm.

Be amongst the first eight Women to arrive and receive special gift!!!
Book of the Month is "Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome" By Dr. Joy Leary
RSVP by Monday, Aug 22, 2011 to:  stacie.jharris@yahoo.com  See you there!

See below for "Women's Monthly Meet Up" schedule

Meeting Date             Book of the Month                      Author
August 27th - Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome - By Dr. Joy Leary
http://www.joydegruy.com/  

Sept 24th - The Audacity of Hope - By President Barack H. Obama

Oct 29th - MOVIE: "Stoning of Soraya"
Conversation facilitated by Visionary for God, Ms. Shanelle Gayden
http://www.encourageasister.org/

Nov 26th - MUSIC: A Cool Jazz like setting – Details Coming Soon
(This is my Birthday weekend - I'm a turkey baby Nov 24th)

Dec 17th - End of the year celebration
(Gift Receiving - Surprise gifts to all attendees)

IN CASE YOU MISSED ALL THE GREAT BOOKS WE’VE READ SO FAR:

Jan 29th - The Dream Giver - By Bruce Wilkinson

February 26th - The 5 Love Languages - By Gary Chapman
Book on sale NOW at Lifeway Christian Bookstore in White Marsh
http://www.lifewaystores.com/  ($9.99)

March 19th - Two Weeks Before the Rest of My Life
- By Harold T. Fisher (Author graced us with his presence)
Learn more about author at http://www.rosefogg.com/

April 28th - Inspiration for Life
- By Justin Jones-Fosu
Learn more about author at  http://www.justininspires.com/

May 28th - Verse in Motion
- By Renee Jean  (Author joined us via skype)
Learn more about author at  http://www.verseinmotion.com/
                                             
June 25th - The Lady, Her Lover and Her Lord - By Bishop TD Jakes

July 30th - Journey to the Well - By Bishop Vashti McKenzie
http://thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com/


Also, join us Sunday – Saturday 7am for our Women’s prayer via conference call. 
Be restored, healed, refreshed, delivered, renewed, set free, revived and strengthened with this 15 minute power-packed prayer call.  Dial in at 605.562.3000 code 223212#. 

Be well and we look forward to hearing you on the prayer call and seeing you during the monthly meet up.  Feel free to invite others to join the conference call and monthly meet ups.

Teamwork Matters

Teamwork Matters

While working with a group of young people during a teamwork workshop, I had an opportunity to sit and observe behaviors and attitudes as they prepared for the day’s activity.  Some were frustrated and angry while others were withdrawn and restless.  Clearly I could see many of them were irritated.  This irritation was projected towards one another often as insults by way of comedy. 

After about five minutes I stood before the young people.  I could sense the disappointment, for they knew the question I would ask, and so I did.  I asked them what happened with their group project from the previous week.  All of them began screaming and shouting, pointing fingers at everyone but themselves.  They even blamed the Executive Director of the program for the projects outcome.  I stopped them and stated, “So everyone is at fault for the projects flaws and failure”. 

Again the young people proceeded to cast blame but no one took responsibility for their actions.  Insults again went forth throughout the room.  Finally, with my right arm raised, I interrupted the screaming and said, “Exactly! So you all agree the project was not successful due to a lack of team work, an absence of sportsmanship, lack of commitment, lack of trust and selfishness”.  I proceeded by reminding them they are all a part of one team, thereby making each of them equally responsible for the unsuccessful completion of the project. 

Most of the young disagreed with my statement.  After further discussion a light bulb went off and one young person came forward saying, “I apologize for the groups’ behavior.  May we have another chance?  I promise we will do better at working together as one team although we are in two separate groups because our purpose is the same”.

This behavior is not new or unfamiliar to me.  In fact, there are many adults who behave in the same manner.  Whether it’s an inability to work together on the job, at school, volunteering for a project, as a family, in the community, on the basketball or football team or we lack the capacity to be a team on the choir, at the salon, amongst political party affiliation or in the church.  We quite often have an attitude of separateness.  We fight about who is right and who is wrong.  We argue about where the money should go.  We speak ill-mannered words towards one another.  We grow bitter, casting blame on everyone accept ourselves. Eventually our projects fail and many walk away disappointed, hurt, bruised, unable to trust or forgive. 

As I studied Ephesians chapter four I realized teamwork really does matters, for we are all one body connected together.  Whatever impacts you most assuredly affects me…sometimes directly and sometimes indirectly.  I employ you to consider this; you are by no means a world by yourself.  Consider those who make up this world with you.  Know whatever decisions you make, they are not for you alone but your family, your co-workers and essentially whatever team you’re apart of will be impacted by both your stubbornness and your openness.  You can build up and tear down your teammates with your words.  We all have specific duties and responsibilities.  We are accountable to one another.  Ultimately, nothing gets accomplished without teamwork because TEAMWORK MATTERS.

Ephesians 4:1-32

“…Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another IN LOVE, endeavoring to keep the UNITY OF THE SPIRIT IN THE BOND OF PEACE…till we all come to the unity of faith and of the knowledge…from whom the body, joined and knit together by what EVERY joint supplies, according to the effective working by which EVERY PART DOES ITS SHARE, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love…you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened…because of ignorance that is in them because of the blindness of their heart…

…Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.  Be angry and do not sin…let NO CORRUPT WORD PROCEED OUT OF YOUR MOUTH, but what is GOOD and NECESSARY edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers…Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice.  AND BE KIND to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you”

OUR PRAYER:
Father, thank you for a new day filled with endless mercies.  Help us to understand that we are to be merciful towards one another.  Help us to treat one another as we treat ourselves and if by chance we do not have knowledge or understanding of how we ought treat ourselves, Lord I ask that you speak to us bringing forth the reminder that we should do all things in love.  We add to one another with kindness and gentleness.  Thank you Lord for providing examples in everyday living as to the compassion we should have.  Lord touch those in Congress who have decided not to be team players.  Encourage mother's and father's to work in unity thereby setting a loving example for children.  Touch brothers and sisters, tearing down dysfunction. Help us to have our love for others.  Forgive us of wrong words that we have spoken that caused damage to others spirit.  Restore us as one union in you, In Jesus Name I pray with faith, Amen.

Touch Me Again

I Want a New Touch

I remember when my mom died.  It was a Monday.  May 29, 2000, Memorial Day to be exact.  As the doctors and nurses worked diligently to stabilize my Mom, her family and friends formed a prayer circle.  In the midst of me leading prayer I felt a cool touch, almost like a kiss on my cheek. 

I remember it as if it were yesterday.  I was just about to say, “Lord heal and deliver my Mom” but instead I said, “Lord, have your way.  Give us the strength to accept YOUR outcome, YOUR will be done, In Jesus Name, Amen”.  It was the touch that reminded me God is ever present.  It was the touch that gave me hope, peace and strength to go through and accept this agonizing event in my life.

As prayer ended the doctors came to inform the family, they did all they could but there was nothing else they could do.  My Mom made her transition.  The cries began to bounce from wall to wall in the family waiting room.  Family members ran to hold and hug one another but just as someone approached me I said, “No, please don’t touch me”.  They thought it was because I was hurt and wounded but I knew that if I asked God to touch me…to hold me…to wrap me in His arms, He would never let go but if family held me, even if just for a moment, they would eventually have to let go. 

So I stood crying out, calling on the name of Jesus, praying deep within myself, asking God to touch me, hold me, keep me…I lay in the comfort of the Master’s bosom crying, being wrapped with arms that never let go.  As I awoke this morning I was reminded of an issue from yesterday and tears began to fall.  I recognized I was hurting but I also recognized I needed God to touch me again.  I wanted a new touch from God this morning.  His grace and mercy has kept me but His touch sustains and strengthens me to make it through a new day.

2 Thessalonians 2:1-2
– “Now we beseech you, brethren, touching the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and our gathering together unto him; to the end that ye be NOT quickly shaken from your mind, nor yet be troubled, either by spirit, or by word…”

TODAY, I PRAY THIS FOR YOU:

Our Lord and our God, thank you for another day filled with special touches from you.  I ask you to touch the heart, mind, spirit, physical bodies, finances and homes of each eye who reads this reflection and prayer.  Lord touch them with new mercy, touch them with a gentle hand of correction, touch them with loving kindness, touch them with grace, touch them with compassion…HAVE YOUR WAY IN THEIR LIVES! 

Restore broken places.  Build up the weak and the feeble mind.  Gather these, your children unto your bosom.  Hold them as only you can.  Do not allow them to shrink from your presence or be consumed with evil spirits.  Do not allow lack to guide their thoughts or motives.  Remind them with a touch, you have all provision.

Precious Lord, each time the tears fall, remind these, your children with a gentle touch through a cool breeze that you are ever present.  Set free those who suffer grief from burdens.  Release them to freely cast their cares on you.  Touch these, my brothers and sisters AGAIN with your love, In Jesus Name, I pray Amen

"Deep Within...

...You Don’t Know”

By: Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris

You don’t know my battle,

I shouldn’t even be moved by the things you say and do

You’re just angry because I am no longer your puppet

You can’t make me dance to the beat of your drum

Or sing the same old sad blues songs

You don’t know my pain,

I shouldn’t even be surprised by your lack of compassion

You’re just angry my thoughts are now elevated and you can’t control me

You can’t make me lose my cool

Or come apart at the seams anymore

You don’t know my new found joy,

I could have stayed in the box you created deeming it my grave

I could have become bitter, outraged, spiteful, vindictive and withdrawn

I could have decided love was a non-reality for me

But instead, I am elated to have found all the things you could not provide…

Self-worth, abundant peace, joy, hope, strength and the greatest love of all, deep within my own being

Women's Monthly Meet Up & Prayer Call Update

Women's Monthly Meet Up is an opportunity to enjoy fellowship with like-minded women.  During the "Meet Up", we pray, discuss the book of the month, enjoy lite fare and open discussion on topics ranging from but not limited to; being single, dating, marriage, family, love, sex, domestic violence, abortion, politIcs, finances, submitting our will to God, buying a home and various other topics that impact and affect us on a daily basis.  The objective is to provide support and encouragement through fellowship and discussion.

Being whole is the goal...Mind, Body and Spirit! 
Join us for the next "Women's Meet Up":
Saturday, July 30, 2011, 5pm - 7pm.

FREE gift for first seven Women to arrive!!! 
Book of the Month is "Journey to the Well" By Bishop Vashti McKenzie
RSVP by Monday, July 25, 2011 to:  stacie.jharris@yahoo.com  See you there!

Various Authors have agreed to make an appearance, sign books for attendees and share in the discussion.  Contact me to purchase books for confirmed authors or go online and get yours today!!!

Here is the outline created for the "Women's Monthly Meet Up"

Meeting Date            Book of the Month           Author (time is always 5pm - 7pm)
Jan 29th - The Dream Giver - By Bruce Wilkinson

February 26th - The 5 Love Languages - By Gary Chapman
Book on sale NOW at Lifeway Christian Bookstore in White Marsh
http://www.lifewaystores.com/  ($9.99)

March 19th - Two Weeks Before the Rest of My Life
- By Harold T. Fisher (Author confirmed)
Learn more about author at http://www.rosefogg.com/

April 28th - Inspiration for Life
- By Justin Jones-Fosu (Author confirmed)
Learn more about author at  http://www.justininspires.com/

May 28th - Verse in Motion
- By Renee Jean  (Author confirmed)
Learn more about author at  http://www.verseinmotion.com/
                                             
June 25th - The Lady, Her Lover and Her Lord - By Bishop TD Jakes

July 30th - Journey to the Well - By Bishop Vashti McKenzie
http://thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com/

August 27th - Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome - By Joy Leary
http://www.joydegruy.com/

Sept 24th - The Audacity of Hope - By President Barack H. Obama

Oct 29th - MOVIE: "Stoning of Soraya"
Conversation facilitated by Visionary for God, Ms. Shanelle Gayden
http://www.encourageasister.org/

Nov 26th - MUSIC: A Cool Jazz like setting
(This is my Birthday weekend - I'm a turkey baby Nov 24th)

Dec 17th - End of the year celebration
(Gift Receiving - Surprise gifts to all attendees)

Also, join us Sunday – Saturday 7am for our Women’s prayer via conference call. 

Be restored, healed, refreshed, delivered, renewed, set free, revived and strengthened with this 15 minute power-packed prayer call.  Dial in at 605.562.3000 code 223212#. 

Be well and we look forward to hearing you on the prayer call and seeing you during the monthly meet up.  Feel free to invite others to join the conference call and monthly meet ups.

  

Mythical Angel

Angels aren't always dressed in white gowns with rosy red cheeks, smiles upon their faces, twinkles in their eyes and wings glistening upon their backs.

Angels come in different shapes and sizes:
They sometimes touch you with their tears.  They change lives because of their pain.  They purify with their innocence.  With gentle hands they warm hearts.  With kisses they heal.  Their laughter chases things that restrain bringing joy to all they encounter. 

Messy and dingy with dirt upon their faces yet warmly they Embrace you!

These are our earthly Angels living amongst us as examples of success and failure, victory and defeat, triumphs and downfalls...

It's up to each of us to capture the lessons, take our eyes off the Mythical Angels to see the ones we have surrounding us, giving guidance with every step made.

Be well My Angel...

With Tenderness and Love,

Your Angel,
Stacie

Keeping YOU Informed

Upcoming Events/Book Signings & Other Appearances

 
Monday, June 13, 2011 - Poetry Reading & Book Signing "Whitaker Book of Poetry" with Major Moves Mondays hosted by Melissa Bagley and Chyna of the Professional Women's Network.  Additionally, enjoy smooth jazz tunes as Stacie, co-author of "Whitaker Book of Poetry" dazzles the crowd while performing with the band.

Where: Club 347
           347 N. Calvert Street
           Baltimore, MD 21202
When: Monday, June 13, 2011
Time:  6 PM - 9 PM
Contact: Mel B for more info - 443.683.6515

Tuesday, June 14 - 17 2011 - Plan your vacation to Boca Raton, FL as Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris travels to participate in a major book signing with various Authors from around country
Where: Barnes & Noble
           1400 Glades Road
           Boca Raton, Florida 33431
When: Thursday, June 16, 2011
Time:   6 PM - 8 PM
Please visit our sponsor's website at http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/store/2053 


Saturday, June 18, 2011 - Join us as we participate in the Dad & Me Spa Tea Experience Sponsored by Mind Over Matter, Denise Laws and Sonia Legg, Owners.  Enjoy a dedication to Father's and Daughters as Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris performs during this momentous occasion. Whitaker Book of Poetry for sale during event

Where: Holiday Inn Express
           1701 Russell St.
           Baltimore, MD 21230
When: Saturday, June 18, 2011
Time:   12 PM - 4 PM
Tickets: $25 (per ticket - online ONLY) - tickets include Lunch, Musical entertainment by Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris and Toni Hatton, Comedian Shawn Spence, Guided interactive Spa Experience by ms. Purity Spa Luxuries, games and more...
Tickets: $30 (at the door)

Limited Time Offer: Purchase a Copy of the "Whitaker Book of Poetry" AND "Dad and me Tickets" Online NOW for Additional Savings of $15 
Purchase tickets at: http://www.dadandmespaandtea.eventbrite.com/
For More Information Contact: 443.840.9597


Saturday, June 25, 2011 - Poetry reading and book signing
Where: Diva By Cindy          
           7 Hooks Lane          
           Pikesville, MD 21208
When: Saturday, June 25, 2011
Time:   11 AM - 1 PM
Please visit our sponsor's website at http://shadesofu.net/

Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris Bio

Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris is a writer, poet, vocalist, inspirationalist and advocate for social equality, branded as a woman with a passion for people. She was born November 24, 1975 in Baltimore Maryland. Stashauna, Chae and Stachal are Harris’ three beautiful jewels, though she is known for unofficially adopting many children. She is committed to strengthening families and communities, using her creative gifts and talents to positively impact lives. Harris works tirelessly in the community providing workshops and inspirational speeches. These workshops promote opening the mind to self, inspiring attendees to live intentionally with purpose on purpose for their designed purpose. June 2009, Harris, Ruben Studdard and other artist performed in Manhattan for the induction of World Sickle Day. In March 2011, Harris received a Woman of Power award for her commitment to the betterment of the communities in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. April 2011, she was honored with the A.C.D. Vaughn International Network of Women in Ministry, for her generous commitment and untiring service to church, schools, and the community in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC and the Metropolitan area. Harris holds a Bachelors of Arts in Non-profit Management from the University of Baltimore (UB). While attending UB, she received an award for outstanding contributions in student activities. Harris will release her first of four books in the Embracing Me series entitled, "Hell and Heaven at 8" in July 2011.  Additionally, Harris is the co-author of the "Whitaker Book of Poetry".  To learn more information about "Whitaker Book of Poetry" or to purchase a copy visit http://www.whitpoetry.com/

GRACE

My entire life I’ve had my eyes set on each mountain and the struggle that comes with climbing them.  I’ve sometimes complained so much about going up the steep, rocky, jagged mountains that I was unaware that I had reached the top.  When descending into the lowly valley I quickly forgot the achievement of touching the mountains peak.  Instead of a grateful smile I grew afraid of the unknown, forecasting showers which lead to the treading of mud in dark lonely places. I looked for a safe place to hide not even knowing whether danger was truly present. 

My predicament made me consider going back to the same mountain, climbing it again and remaining at its peak.  Of course, tracking backwards down the mountain on the side which I had previously climbed was out of the question because I knew all too well what lurked in those forests.  The more I pondered what I would get out of just standing on the mountain top the more I realized I could not get to the place I wanted and needed to be in so I tread forward with apprehension. 

In the valley I met those headed towards the mountain I just left.  Many had on blinders, thus they never recognized I was in the valley with them.  Others looked afraid, stopping to ask if the mountain was really as scary and hard to climb as people discuss.  I respond with an encouraging word of, “it was challenging but you can do it”.  They continue on, still afraid but more confident and I too hear my own words, which encourage me as I journey on.  Two, three, four, five --- I climb one mountain after the next, some of great size.  Some sharper than others, some windier than others, some slipperier than others but with each feat I grew less afraid of the incline and less weary of the decline.

God’s Grace has been, is and will always be sufficient for every journey in this life and I am all the more grateful for each experience.

“But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not found vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me”
1 Corinthians 15:10

“Growing stronger, bolder, wiser and less afraid with Grace”

Naked

NAKED

Remove the Make-up

Snot nosed, good for nothing, ignorant, naïve, sheltered, unconscious person; hiding behind the noise of loud words bellowing from your mouth with such arrogance.  Lacking confidence and self-esteem, fear wells in the pit of your belly, creeping through your intestinal walls upward towards your throat, cutting off your air and choking the life from your dreams.

Tears seeking to escape but you must keep a perfect disposition as if nothing moves you.  Cowards and weak minded persons allow these futile secretions to escape their tear ducts is the lie you will your spirit to believe.   You choose constrained limits, fortifying emotions with the over indulgence of outside forces such as cursing people with vile words, food, sex, clothing, shopping, judging others harshly and even creeping into a corner to make deep cuts into the creases of your arms in hopes to release the bad blood from the open wounds.

In a dark space, with no witness to behold your most fragile moment, no longer able to hide the weakened state of your frail being; the being that you created for others to see, to adore, to like, to love, to behold, you tear away the clothing, wash profusely the layers of make-up and your nakedness is revealed.  The primary person you sought to hide from sees you for who and what you really are.  Immediately, shame is released and you stand confronting yourself, seeing every blemish, wrinkle, scar, divot, discoloration and every inch of excessive skin.  Your soul cries out, horrified from the sight and sound echoing in the dark space.  Free from hiding, you stand alert, with senses awakened, now ready to reveal the REAL you without the make-up.

My charge to you today is: Be NAKED!

So often we hide behind ill-mannered, lowly thoughts of self.  Live a life FREE, uninhibited with the thoughts of others and especially the negative thoughts we feed ourselves.   Everyone has insecurities and issues that they struggle to keep hidden from others for fear of judgment, being exposed or not being accepted.  With that in mind, BE NAKED for you, NOT FOR OTHERS!  God sees you for who and what He created you as.  Therefore you don’t need make-up.  God has already MADE you beautifully and wonderfully with His love!  Just think, anything made in love is always a wonderful sight to behold…even with every blemish!  So put the concealer and foundation away!  Be unashamed of your nakedness.  Once the shame phases out, you’ll be able to walk victoriously as the person you were created to be!  It won’t be easy working without the make-up that you’ve become accustomed to using but it will get easier as time progresses.

“For in him were all things created, in the heavens and upon the earth, things visible and things invisible…yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and without blemish and unreproveable before him…whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ

Colossians 1:16-29

THE NEW NAKED YOU IS BEAUTIFUL WITHOUT THAT MAKE-UP!

“My course has changed and the wind has blown me upstream.  My struggle is not in staying afloat
but it lies in keeping my focus on who I am and not who I was” - SJWH