Not Afraid

2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (KJ) For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. (NIV) God didn't give us a cowardly spirit but a spirit of power, love, and good judgment. (GWT) John 14:27 I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid.(NLT) Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. (NASB) 

Everything has an opposite…

Everything has an opposite…

Psalm 107

1-Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his love endures forever
2-Let the redeemed of the Lord say this ~
those he redeemed from the hand of the foe
3-Those he gathered from the lands from east and west,
from north and south
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 when I think about it, means we possibly murmur and complain 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?  During day 7 of this consecration declare from your mouth that your negatives are your positives! Speak LIFE!!!

Go ahead, whip me...

This morning during our daily time of prayer, day six of the prayer lines holy consecration, Brother Jamal began to pray. Typically all phone lines are muted to keep out background noises but this morning I neglected to ask the callers to mute their phones. Half way through the prayer a woman began fussing at her children in irritation of what they were not doing. She was so loud she over powered the prayers of Brother Jamal. The Holy Spirit told me to interrupt the prayer and to ask all callers to mute the phone but I did not listen. I acted in my own mind because I did not want to be a second disturbance. Although the young woman had stopped for a moment the holy spirit told me that she would say unfavorable things to the children because she was frustrated but again, I did not correct her, nor yield to the spirit and in less than two minutes she began fussing at the children again but this time she used foul language and I could hear the gasp from those on the line. I had to come forth and stop the prayer and then correct her and all the callers.

When the call was over some people sent me messages saying they were upset, appalled and offended. Many of these callers are new to the more than forty participants we have nearly every morning.  All the callers have invited their family and friends to join them on the prayer line. After taking a cat nap and having dreamed a specific thing about thieves stealing from those who are left exposed and open, the Lord reminded me that none of us are so holy, so pure or so righteous and THAT is the reason for times of consecration such as the one (WE) as the prayer line callers are experiencing right now. People are expecting me to correct this young woman further and beyond what I said on the call but they missed the message in the group text message I sent that morning and its meaning for day six of this consecration period. The message said: “Are you giving God part or all of you? I am your accountability partner, as you are mine. Let’s give God everything, especially the dirty and shameful things. Mouth, mind, finances, children, marriage, heart, hurt, pain…Day 6 has begun and God wants ALL of you!”

The point is all of us are in different spaces and places. Some of us have never cursed. Some of us know enough not to curse in church, on the prayer call or during other fellowship times with the Saints. Some of us have been totally delivered from cursing but we still back bite, cheat, lie, steal, manipulate, doubt, fear, lack faith and the list goes on.

The prayer call is a place for the saved, unsaved and those trying to figure out what side of the fence they want to be on. I will not condemn nor judge this young woman. I won’t point her out or use her as an example. I won’t allow anyone to attack her. I will stand in the gap for her. So if anyone has anything to say, simply say it to me. I will be the whipping post for her. I will take the persecution from all the holy people that live lives perfected without flaw or blemish.

I will go even further being transparent, hearing those words come from this young woman was a mirror, no maybe I don’t curse at my children but in heightened times of frustration or even anger I have used similar words. My heart cried as God used this moment on the call as an opportunity to shine the light on me. God exposed an ugly place that is just as much mine as it was this young woman’s. Maybe it’s not swearing, cursing or using foul language for you but it may be words like, “I can’t! That will never happen for me! I’ll always be sick! I’m never going to get out of debt! My marriage is going to fail! I don’t think these family members will ever change!” and again, the list goes on.

It’s easy to persecute, judge and point out wrong doings, bad habits, ill behaviors and such with others than it is to love somebody right where they are. So again, I’ll be the whipping post. If you have nails, knives, whips, chains, whatever you want to do or say to this young woman to get if off your chest for how you were offended, simply say it to me and guess what? I will take it all no matter how bad it hurts. Her soul can’t be lost because we are holy! In fact, her soul is found because someone holy invited her to the call. So with my little bit of strength and my extremely strong faith, I’ll take her punishment because I know it won’t kill me but it might very well set her back to a place of self-condemnation and ill thoughts. It may wound and even kill her.

Trust me; I know she is already beating herself up enough. You know why…Because no one ever wants to expose the dirt within themselves in front of the Saints. That’s why they clean themselves up first before they come to church or in the presence of “the holy people”. They want to change, that’s why they come in the first place but they have the pressure of faking the funk and acting like they are much better than they really are. Why? Because, none of the Saints embrace filth.

Think about this: The Lord told me to go and hug a homeless woman on a bench. She was filthy but the Lord said it so I did it. He told me to hold her hands which were dirty and so I did. He told me to forget the smell and to smile at and pray for her and so I did. Then He said for me to tell her I love her and that I do care and so I did.

Later that same day I saw a homeless man sitting outside of the Subway Sandwich shop. He asked for money. I asked him what he wanted it for but only because the Lord told me to ask him. He said he was hungry. The Lord told me not to buy myself something to eat but to buy him what I would have gotten for myself. In other words feed but not just any old thing…feed him well. So I asked him what he wanted and then went into the store and purchased it. There was an old man in the store also and he said the young man was not homeless but that he was a beggar and a bum. He said there was nothing wrong with him and he needed to get a job and take care of himself because he is a grown man. The older gentleman went on to say I should not do anything to help him because he was just plain ole’ lazy. I smiled at the old man and said, “My heart is in God and God’s heart is for all His people. I must be obedient.” So I was. When I went back outside the Lord told me to tell the young man to get up off the ground and get clean. His eyes filled with tears as he told me his story. He knew precisely the three areas God had shown me. Then the Lord said to tell him not to be ashamed and so I did.

Now imagine if I had not listened to God but listened to the man because he was repulsed by what he could see when looking at the young man with natural eyes.

Clearly we sometimes sit in postures waiting for that right word, that right moment to be accepted, the right moment to be encouraged, the right moment for someone to feed us, the right moment to have our needs met, the right moment to be loved.

So again, I say, “I’ll be the whipping post for our sister who is clearly struggling. Maybe it’s her patience. Maybe it’s her timing. Maybe its motherhood – being single with small babies. Maybe it’s a lack of love or self-respect. Who knows? I don’t claim to know but I do know she is struggling. She has just as much desire to be right with God as the rest of us. So judge me in her place. Place the thorns upon my head. Persecute me. I’ll stand in her place. But remember this, by the measure you judge that is the same measure by which you, yourself will be judged.

“He who is without sin cast the first stone”~ John 8:7

“Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from sin?”~Proverbs 20:9

**During our time of consecration God will expose us to what’s truly in our hearts individually and corporately. As Mother Patricia stated during the meditation today, none of us are exempt from pain but we are also NOT exempt from persecution or judgment and neither are we exempt from flaws! Yes we are new creations in Christ but we ALL die daily to the flesh in order to live for God being holy and acceptable.

This blog post is one with many messages to all who read. Take a moment to read it again and to share it with someone else.

OTHER SCRIPTURES MEDITATE ON DURING CONSECRATION:

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.~ Romans 15:1 New International Version

And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbor as himself, is much more than all whole burnt-offerings and sacrifices. ~ Mark 12:33 American Standard Version

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.~ Romans 12:9-10 New International Version

I’ve spent a long time in sin’s prison. What I don’t understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise…it becomes obvious that God’s command is necessary. But I need something more! For if I know that law but still can’t keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help!

I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don’t result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.

It happens so regularly that its predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.

~ Roman 7: 15-23 The Message Bible

Romans 13:10
Zechariah 8:17
Luke 10:27

PRAYER:

Lord, bless the eyes of the one who reads this post. Touch them in the inner most, depths of their beings. Remind them of your love for them. Encourage them to open and expose those parts they are ashamed to share with you. Wrap your arms around them and draw them closer to you. Heal the sin sick, the wounded, the lost, the afflicted, the bound. Remake them into what you desire Lord. Help them to love their neighbor honestly as you love us. Lord I thank you for revealing the ugly parts of me that I may be open to your truth and to change that which can only come from you. Help each of us to acknowledge our flaws, face them and then allow you to fix them...bit by bit and piece by piece. Make us whole. My God you are so loving and we do not take your lovingkindness for granted. It is in Christ name I pray for myself, my brothers and sisters, near and far, Amen

I believe in YOU...

Thank you to the thousands who embrace and support me on this journey of Embracing Me as I launch full speed ahead with The Embracing Me Project.  Whether you purchased a book, came out to a speaking engagement, attended a book signing, referred a friend, sent a word of encouragement or remain in constant prayer for me as I go forth on this journey, please know that you are appreciated.

Unfortunately, I did not reach my prior goal of selling 1000 of my latest book "Hell & Heaven at 8" during the 10 day 1000 book push in January. Therefore I was unable to give out as many free books to people in transition; be it abuse, divorce, abandonment or loss of a loved one, as I initially desired. So here I am again, striving to reach a set goal but starting the counter over!

It is my desire to sell twice the amount of books than my original goal. Why have I set such an ambitious goal the 2nd time around if I did not reach the goal the first time? Well that's easy to answer.  Since the last time I sought your support, I encountered even more hurting, wounded, deprived, hopeless and even suicidal people who simply need the proper support and guidance as well as tools to aid in healing.  I have watched women, boys, girls and men from ALL walks of life start over on their journey to fulfillment, completion, healing, restoration and encouragement. They desire to be made whole and I believe that is possible! "Hell & Heaven at 8" stands simply as one tool, not an end all be all.

This is where you and I come in.  With more than thirty countries following this blog, the entire United States having previewed the site and the many responses I receive from you regularly, its evident that we are capable of reaching this goal together! I believe in YOU the readers and supporters and I believe in this movement!

PURCHASE A COPY FOR YOU, A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND BY CLICKING THE LINK TODAY: Hell & Heaven at 8

For group rates & discounts email: GodsGiftLLC@gmail.com

"Hell & Heaven at 8" tells of my life’s journey from girlhood to womanhood, experiencing the hellish disappointments and various abuses of life as well as the pivotal points in my life's journey that allowed me to heal, grow and embrace the woman I was created to be, using each negative as a platform for positive growth and successful development.

Thank you for all the responses thus far and thanks in advance for your continued support! I know I can count on YOU to help reach the goal of 2000 book sales by June 30, 2012! That's 40 days to sell 50 books per week...WE CAN DO IT!!!

**NOTE: Support this movement by tweeting it daily, adding it to your facebook page, emailing it to your friends, family and extended network, call people to tell them about it or text the link...YOU hold the key for other people's successful healing...EMBRACE IT!

Authentically Real Worship

As I embrace this day, this moment, this space, this time, I welcome God into every area of my life. I avail my entire being to Him and I worship sincerely with every fabric of my being. I simply desire to be who and what God designed, created and destined me to be. No more noise clouding my judgment of self. No conflictual messages saying to me what I am not but simply the spirit of the Lord dwelling in me, reminding me that I am beautifully and wonderfully made. Just to simply be in God's presence is what I need. This intimate space is my serenity, it is my peace, it is my joy, it is my strength, it is my confidence, it is my holiness, it is my ministry...being with God, simply being in that quiet face to face space is rewarding. I come out better. Purified! A new thing takes place each time I enter this space. I go to deeper depths and heights unknown to me outside of this quiet place of worship. I silence defeat and know that I am more than a conqueror. I am victorious. I feel like Paul, I am responsible for getting out of chains, bondage and jail. I am equally responsible for entering the upper room, for getting up close and personal with God and I realize He is my EVERYTHING and that without out Him I can do nothing! I am grateful for authentic, true and real encounters with God in, through and by worshipping Him in spirit and in truth that elevate my spirit to a place in Him that is indescribable.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

Exalt ye the Lord our God, and worship at his footstool; for He is holy ~ Psalm 99:5

God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth ~ John 4:24

Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill; for the Lord our God is holy ~ Psalm 99: 9

Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name. Bring an offering and come before Him; worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness ~ 1 Chronicles 16:29

PRAYER:

Lord, I thank you for allowing me, someone who at some point considered myself unclean, unholy and unworthy, an opportunity to develop a relationship with you so that I could see me as you see me. Thank you God for loving me so much so that you avail yourself to me. Thank you for speaking to me. Thank you for wiping my tears. Thank you for cleaning and healing my heart. Thank you for renewing my mind. Thank you for strengthening my faith. Thank you for allowing me to come and worship at your throne. Thank you for being loving, kind, gracious, gentle and especially patient with me. Thank you for redeeming me and the time. Thank you for the process of purging and purifying me. I love you Lord and I bless your holy name for you are worthy of all my praise. Receive my authentic and real worship O' Lord my God. Receive my prayers and I thank you for not withdrawing yourself from me. In Christ name I pray, Amen

*NOTE: Sometimes, out of habit we simply come to God with many request but all He wants to hear is our praise for who and what He is to us. Take a moment to reflect on that which you have and then say a prayer of thanksgiving. Let that too, be authentic and real http://theembracingmeproject.blogspot.com/2012/02/daily-routine.html

My yo-yo diet...

"My yo-yo diet"

This diet is not your typical diet.  In fact, it’s more so about being sluggish in eating and properly ingesting the word of God. Eating when it’s convenient opposed to understanding the necessity in being fed consistently. Picking up the bible when you need a word of comfort, when you are trying to argue a point or when you need to be encouraged or even worse, to try to give someone else a word as if you always read and study. We cannot afford to be vegans, vegetarians, coniferous (carnivores), or selective. We must have well-rounded diets which consist of knowing and studying the word regularly. This is the only way we grow from feeding and relying solely on milk to growing from the meat, gaining sustenance.

We cannot expect Pastors and preachers to do all the work! This is one diet we cannot afford to skimp on. No yo-yo dieting with the word of God. Be consistent and watch your attitudes, behaviors and life become stable. Be unswerving in your study and absorption of the word of God and watch the word work in your life. You'll find that you are experiencing abundant peace, joy, good health, becoming prosperous, able to forgive more easily, capable of serving with a smile even when judged or persecuted, you'll see your temperament change.

It takes just as much patience and time in study as it does faith to establish good eating habits. So be steadfast and watch your weight stabilize while your burdens decrease, becoming lighter!

SCRIPTURES:

Matthew 4:4 – MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God

Ezekiel 3:1-3 – Moreover he said unto me, Son of man, eat that thou findest; eat this roll, and go speak unto the house of Israel.2 So I opened my mouth, and he caused me to eat that roll.3 And he said unto me, Son of man, cause thy belly to eat, and fill thy bowels with this roll that I give thee. Then did I eat it; and it was in my mouth as honey for sweetness.

PRAYER:

Lord, help me to trust you at your word enough to study your word daily, that I may grow healthy and strong having my spirit fortified in you. I love you for reminding me that your word is the very nutrients necessary for my life. Thank you for feeding me consistently.  Now Lord, help me to absorb what's necessary and to rid myself of the waste. Cleanse me O'Lord. I do humbly pray, In Jesus Name, Amen

Deep longing...

Deep longing for release

As the spirit of one lost in deep waters

My mind floats away into the abyss 

At the edge, the waters fall

A strong vine is made visible

My spirit latches on

Clinging

Hoping

Clenching

Wanting to do more

More than be overcome with the waves

These waves, my thoughts 

Those that stir urge me to clench down and pull up 

While others speak louder

Even louder

With words of hopelessness and defeat

The abyss swells full of itself

And my heart shrinks

While my thoughts grow

Asking

Wondering

Which is best

Hold on or let go!

Thirsty...

With all the moisture in the air there is yet a thrist. One yearning with a dry mouth, parched throat, depleted spirit, drained mind and shriveled body...Still I come to the well with hopes of refreshing

PRAYER:
Lord, I just need one touch from you. Fill me with more of you. In Jesus Name, Amen

All I Need...

Some times I feel exposed, opened beyond what I would desire...maybe even vulnerable but I don't hold back because I want God to saturate me with His presence.  I open to receive and am unafraid...instead I anticipate God showing up, revealing light, love, peace and happiness...bringing joy...All I need is YOU and I am grateful that you are already here, holding me, loving me, helping me...Lord now, complete me!

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, help me to open to being whole.  Pierce my heart so that the stony, dark, cold places fade away.  Take residence in my being and help me to live a life uninhibited of fear and doubt. Help me to appreciate each day, every breath, every step and all that I am exposed to. In Jesus Name, Amen

Traveling the road ahead...

Upcoming Engagements/Events:

July 20, 2012 ~ Outreach Dinner/Fundraiser

Dinner comes with two sides, roll or cornbread & drink

Chicken (Fried or Baked) $12.00

Meatballs (Plain or Gravy) $13.00

Tilapia (Fried) $14.00

Salmon (Baked ONLY) $14.00

SIDES: Add Side for: $3

Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans, Mixed Steamed Veggies, Mac & Cheese, Rice

July 25, 2012 ~ 4th Annual Silence the Violence Rally and Program for 2012 - Sponsored by David Muhammad Raja Community Center 3400 Garrison Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21215

July 28, 2012 ~ Life-Purpose, Fullfillment Conference  Courtyard at Hunt Valley 221 International Circle, Hunt Valley, MD 21030 / Sponsored by Day Masters Enterprises (registration limited) http://www.gomastertheday.com/id67.html

August 18, 2012 ~ African American Authors Expo (Speaker/Book Signing/Vendor) Crowne Plaza Hotel ~ Maryland / Sponsor: Pat Johnson http://aaaexpo.ning.com/page/advertising

August 25, 2012 ~ Hope, Possibility & Promise Women's Symposium Sponsored by Self Development Success -- Speakers include Fran Allen, Jocelyn Williams and Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris (More information to come)




August 2012 ~ LAUNCH: Embracing Me Book II "16 Tears"

CHECK BACK WEEKLY FOR UPDATES



PAST EVENTS

March 17, 2012 11am – 1pm ~ Keynote for "More Than Conquerors"
3702 W. Rogers Ave. Baltimore, MD /Sponsor: Kenda Bell, Gethsemane

March 29, 2012 6pm - 8pm ~ Women of Power Presents: Authors Stacie J Whitaker-Harris & S Monique Smith, Shawn Mason-Spence & Joi Adams ~ 15 W. Eager St. Baltimore, MD

May 4, 2012 7pm – 10pm ~ Stacie JW Harris & Brian Sessions Host 1st Friday’s - 101 East 25^th Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 / Sponsored by Terra Café

May 5, 2012 11am – 2pm ~ Book Signing/Reading “Hell & Heaven at 8” - Alexandria, VA / Host: Shanelle Gayden, Founder of I AM MY SISTERS KEEPER

June 1, 2012 7pm – 10pm ~Stacie JW Harris & Brian Sessions Host 1st Friday’s 101 East 25^th Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 / Sponsored by Terra Café

July 6 – 8, 2012 ~ The Revolutionary Christian Literary Conference Durham, NC / Sponsored by Revolutionary Disciples Media http://www.rclc2012.info/

Complete Women Fellowship

During the month of April, the Complete Women Fellowship will open to men each Wednesday, 9pm EST, as this series will discuss "$PIRITUAL MONEY"...how to get it, keep it and what to do with it once you have it!!!

For more information and to register: http://www.thecompletewomenfellowship.com/

Your thoughts and behaviors about, regarding and towards money will never be the same!!!

Eyes dripping with tears...

My tears fall profusely this morning but its not what you think.  My heart is in tack! My mind is in tack! My body is in tack! My relationships are in tack! My household is in tack! My children are in tack!

Well, why then do my eyes drip with tears this morning? Simply because I rose to see another day and was reminded that God loves me! My delight is in the Lord this morning. 

I consider the fact that twenty years ago the doctors gave me a grim report saying they had done all they can but I trusted in a God who is not like man.  I believed the report of the Lord over, above and beyond what men could speak and do.  I trusted God enough to release (surrender) my body to Him.  I believed God enough to rest (trust) in Him.  I even did so expecting God for relief (provision) to do what only He could do.  So as I reflect this morning I can say with my whole heart that God has been better to me than I've been to myself and its NOT a cliche for me.  I can say the Lord loves me, covers me, keeps me, protects me, shields me,  prunes me, corrects me, lifts me and even leaves room for me to turn my heart towards Him when everything at times faints within me.  The Lord is my rock and so this morning I am crying because I am grateful, grateful not only for what God has done but simply because who He is and He is the word of life. God is LOVE, absolute love!

PRAYER:

God, Lord of all, Giver of life, thank you for loving me.  Thank you for keeping my mind, body, spirit and considering my soul.  Lord thank you for breathing on me today.  Thank you O' Lord for reshaping my thoughts so I can see me as you see me.  Lord thank you for looking beyond my faults.  Thank you for breaking my flesh and even my spirit so that you can get out of me what you desire.  Lord you are the Father of all and I am simply grateful for you just being you.  Now Lord for the eye who reads, for the ones who are not in a place to understand how deep your love runs, for those who are not able to see that they are wonderfully and beautifully made, Lord I pray that you will send Angels to encamp around them.  Release them from self destruction.  Speak into their spirits.  Change their minds and renew them daily.  Let not their hearts be troubled but bring them to a place of peace.  Thank you for hearing these petitions and cries, In Jesus Name I do pray, Amen

SCRIPTURE: "Trust in Him at all times; pour out your heart to Him, for God is our refuge" ~ Psalm 62:8

The Daily Routine

Quite often we wake up, take our next breath, rub our eyes, swing our legs over the edge of the bed, whisper prayers into the atmosphere asking God to give us strength to make it through the day, rise from the bed, walk to the bathroom, brush out teeth, take a shower, clothe ourselves, begin making list for the days "must do" things, pack lunches for the children, fix breakfast, eat and then we move about the rest of the day going from task to task.  Some many things need to be done and we do as much as we can for that day and leave the rest for the next day.

Many of us have a similar routine with our spiritual lives.  We go to church each week, pray on a daily basis, attend bible study, read the scriptures, we are diligent to be kind to our neighbors, we say we love God, we feed the hungry and give shelter to those in need but somehow we have become so immersed in the culture and routine of doing God's work that we forget we ARE God's work.  The routine is not what God desires.  He does want us to be diligent in all we do but we must often search our hearts to see if we have grown complacent.  Yes, all these things are important but it is equally important to expect God to perform miraculously in your life and in the lives of others.  We are so caught in routine that we don't even look for God to do something new.  We are now looking for God to heal.  We are not expecting restoration in our families.  Many of us aren't even sure if we believe because it appears things in our lives are not changing or getting better. 

I encourage you to search not only your heart but pay close attention to the things that you are thinking.  What are you saying to yourself?  What do you believe? Are you going along day by day in the daily routine because it appears that is the thing you should be doing?

Know this, the Lord did something wonderful when He created you! Walk not in the routine but as the work of God in the spirit of God which is love.  He redeemed you and thus, you are no longer the same.  Expect God's divine power to work in you and in your life. 

PRAYER:

Lord I cry out to you asking you to search me.  Improve me God according to your word.  Help me to walk in this life trusting you, believing you are greater than my thoughts. Lord God of all keep my heart and my mind.  Purge and cleanse me. Speak Your truth into my spirit. Help me to keep my eyes on you. Lord I desire to walk in love and peace not because the world says but because of who you are.  I do not desire to please the hearts of men and women.  I do not seek their approval. I do not desire to walk around in this life in a fog.  Take away monotonous routine and allow me to be immersed in you.  Redeem my soul.  Lord mighty are the works of your hands.  Lord get the glory out of my life.  Allow me to do as you say without fear and doubt but in a Holy boldness and confidence of who You are in me. Thank you for your mercy. In Jesus Name I do pray, Amen

Psalm 26

Vindicate me, O Lord,

For I have walked in my integrity

I have also trusted in the Lord; I shall not slip

Examine me O, Lord, and prove me;

Try my mind and my heart.

For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes,

And I have walked in Your truth. 

I have not sat with idolatrous mortals,

Nor will I go in with hypocrites. 

I have hated the assembly of evildoers,

And will not sit with the wicked. 

I will wash my hands in innocence;

So I will go about Your altar, O Lord,

That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving,

And tell of all Your wondrous works,

Lord, I have loved the habitation of Your house, 

And the place where Your glory dwells, 

Do no gather my soul with sinners, 

Nor my life with bloodthirsty men,

In whose hands is a sinister scheme,

And whose right hand is full of bribes.

But as for me, I will walk in my integrity:

Redeem me and be merciful to me. 

My food stands in an even place

In the congregation I will bless the Lord 

Rejoice as an overcomer

PRAYER FOR TODAY:

Lord God I bless you for life, peace, health and strength.  Thank you for coming to my rescue.  Thank you for changing my heart.  Thank you for giving me a brand new life.  Lord I rejoice in you.  I have the victory because of who you are.  Lord bless the head, hands, heart and mind of your servant.  Thank you for being my strength in times of weakness.  Thank you for loving me despite my faults and flaws.  I lean on you and trust that you shall not waver but that you will remain the beginning and the end, the alpha and omega.  God you are my all. Thank you for an inheritance and for all your promises. In Jesus Name, Amen

 

Psalm 28

To You I will cry, O Lord my Rock;

Do not be silent to me,

Lest, if You are silent to me,

I become like those who go down to the pit.

Hear the voice of my supplications

When I cry to You,

When I lift my hands toward Your holy sanctuary

Do not take me away with the wicked

And with the workers of iniquity,

Who speak peace to their neighbors,

but evil is in their hearts.

Give them according to their deeds,

And according to the wickedness of their endeavors

Give them according to the work of their hands

Render to them what they deserve.

Because they do not regard the works of the Lord

Nor the operation of His hands

He shall destroy them and not build them up

Blessed be the lord,

Because He has heard the voice of my supplications!

The Lord is my strength and my shield;

My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped'

Therefore my heart greatly rejoices,

And with my song I will praise Him

The Lord is their strength

And He is the saving refuge of His anointed

Save Your people, And bless Your inheritance

Shepherd them also, And bear them up forever.

Half Way Point

Most of us have two eyes, two ears,two lips, two hands, two arms, two legs and two feet.  When ever one part moves the other parts must follow.  For example, let's take a look at our eyes.  How many of us can make one stay completely still while sending the other to look in another direction.  Ok, let's say someone may be able but most are not capable of doing so.

Now, let us consider our legs. How many of us can walk with one leg going forward and the other leg remain in place.  It's rather difficult to move forward and stand still at the same time.

From time to time I sit thinking about where I am, where I have come from and where I desire to go.  I wonder if I am on the right path to reaching my expected end.  I consider how I arrived to the place where I am and in thinking, all I can say is thank God for using all my parts, for giving me all the tools (signs) I need to grow and be successful while keeping Him as the foundation for all that I do.

As we journey through life there are many roads. Some made of dirt, some gravel, some are smooth, some rocky.  There are some with green lights and some with stop signs.  Every now and again we come to roads with blocks or detour signs.  Pay attention to the signs and don't be afraid to change roads when the signs say to do so.  Don't get agitated or frustrated, for the signs are just Gods way of guiding your steps.

Consider where you are and where you desire to go and remember this, taking one step puts us at the half way point but staying with both feet in the same space keeps you stagnant...while each step places us closer to

You will always have opportunities for growth and there will always be challenges as you grow but keep going anyway!

"Your success does not depend on who you are but rather, what you are willing to become"

~ Kirsten McKay Smith

ENCOURAGING SCRIPTURE:

And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise

~ Hebrews 6:15

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus

~ Philippians 3:12-14

Get wisdom! Get understanding...and in all your getting, get understanding. Exalt her, and she will promote you; She will bring you honor, when you embrace her, She will place on your head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory she will deliver to you...when you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble.

~ Proverbs 4:5-12

PRAYER FOR TODAY:

Our Lord and our God, thank you for ordering our footsteps and for directing our paths.  Helps us to yield to you in everything we do.  Grant us peace, rest and the necessary provisions as we travel along this journey called life.  Help us not to be stubborn.  Give us strength to endure, In Jesus name, Amen

LIFEBOOK 2012

LIFEBOOK 2012 ~ Shared by Brother LaMarr D. Shields, President of Urban Leadership Institute

Health
1. Drink plenty of water
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants, and eat less food that is manufactured in plants
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy
5. Make time for prayer
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2011
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day ---- and while you walk, smile

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

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

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

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase"

~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Hell & Heaven at 8 (New Reviews)

Hell & Heaven at 8

By: Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris

Purchase your book today for $14.95 by clicking the link below

Review testimonials of women and men whose lives changed after reading "Hell & Heaven at 8".

TESTIMONIAL 1:

You spoke to me and my colleagues at  CCBC Essex about your book "Hell & Heaven at 8" & embracing ourselves. I didn't read the book right away but when I did, I read it cover to cover in less than 3hrs. It was that captivating. To think that someone so young could endure so much made me think about my own life and past experiences. From drug addictions to foster home involvement, I too could relate. Reading your story made me realize that many people relate, they just hold it in or brush it off. But they don't realize that apart of embracing yourself is embracing the bad as well as the good.

I read this thinking "Wow, I just want to meet this little girl and let her know that everything will be alright." But, I met her. And it was her who told me everything will be alright. It was her who loves herself more than anything, despite her past. And I'm grateful for such a good read and for being able to meet such a good person. I can't wait for the next installment to this series and I'm recommending it to all my friends and family. I've been inspired so I know they will be too.

Thanks again for your time and the courage to share your story.

Sincerely

Inspired of Essex, Maryland

TESTIMONIAL 2:

Hell & Heaven at 8 really helped me take a closer look at resolving my own hurts and pains. I had to look at my failed marriage again but through a different lens. Thank you

Queen of Greensboro, North Carolina

 TESTIMONIAL 3:

Bravo, Stacie. You have gone to great lengths to revealingly and documenting the abuse and suffering of your childhood. You have done a great job writing of the difficulties which have shaped your life. I applaud you for being so candid. This has happened in too many homes throughout the U.S. I think you represent the forthright and dedicated leadership that Dr. King felt was needed to lead coming generations. I thank you for sharing your experiences in early life and applaud your discovery of God who is there to guide you.

Thank you,

Harriet Stulman, Board Member of INNterim Housing Corporation

 TESTIMONIAL 4:

Hell & Heaven at 8 is a wonderfully intriguing story.  I love how the father's wrote letters.  They acted as a way to make amends demonstrating the love of the father. Its amazing how you went through what you did with your family but hold no resentment, using your past experiences to inspire others.  The book also says its okay to tell the truth about yourself because the truth sets you free.

Mr. Hargrove of Middle River, Maryland 

TESTIMONIAL 5:

Ms. Stacie, thank you for sharing your story.  It really let me see that no matter what comes our way we can persevere.  I have always felt alone like no one understood me because I was quiet.  Well its because I have been in foster care. I have been treated bad, even abused which isn't easy to admit.  I now feel ready to share my story to help other foster care kids. Thanks again.

Scott of Owings Mills, Maryland

TESTIMONIAL 6:

Dear Ms. Harris, it was a pleasure meeting you face to face. Your story really touched my heart. Reading it now helps me understand your passion and commitment to helping others. I thank God for you! Keep doing what you are doing knowing, with God all things are possible.

Mrs. Henson of Baltimore, Maryland

TESTIMONIAL 7:

Amazing how the entire "Hell & Heaven at 8" story has a lot of teaching in the book. It took me back to my childhood and other areas in my life. It's awesome, especially the piece about trust. Anybody young, old, man or woman can take something from it. For men as long as they can get pass their thoughts of possible bashing they will get it - they'll get the lessons.  I am not an avid reader but I read it in one sitting. Some of the stories I had to read over and over especially the introduction.  It was the concept of the apologies.  We really do have to understand the weight of our words. 

Torment makes us go crazy outside ourselves, especially men like me who try to keep the dirt hidden. Accountability is the great equalizer. Embracing me is perfect because as the story unfolds and breaks down into different pieces it helped me to embrace me. I could totally relate.  It helped me put somethings back in place within myself.  All in all, wonderful book!

Chris of Columbia, Maryland

TESTIMONIAL 8:

God kept you with purpose.  The healing of a nation is at hand ~ from the inside out!

Dr. Greene of Pikesville, Maryland

TESTIMONIAL 9:

Reading Hell and Heaven at 8 ... Opened my eyes to see how blessed I was growing up. I had a two parent home and they showed that they loved me. I was born blessed and I'm  walking in blessings daily.

Linda Mayo of Parkville, Maryland

"Embracing Me" Series Launches With "Hell & Heaven at 8"

"In order to know who you really are, In order to know the power which you possess, In order to grow, In order to live and be free, You must first be willing to embrace every moment…The days before your existence, The days when you came to be and the legacy that you will leave behind…Know thyself, Embrace who you are"  

~ Stacie J. Whitaker- Harris ~

(Baltimore, MD)— "Hell & Heaven at 8", one of four books in the Embracing Me series written by Stacie J. Whitaker-Harris, tells of her life’s journey from girlhood to womanhood while experiencing the disappointments of rape, molestation and other abuses that life serves. The story unfolds in eight-year increments, offering a glimpse into pivotal points in Harris’ life journey that have allowed her to heal, grow and embrace the woman she was created to be, using the way points as a platform for development.

According to Harris, this memoir is offered as a building block to encourage healing for women, men and families who have experienced life’s trauma and difficulties--"Unfortunately, my story is a common one, often held inside, leaving young women wounded for generations. Although the book discloses true accounts of my life, it is not to bash or tear down but rather to build". As a turn from the norm, Harris’ book intersperses letters of apology from various men of varying backgrounds and experiences who speak to Harris’ experiences along the book’s journey.

"Hell & Heaven at 8," not only shares Harris’ own poignant, painful, and victorious story, but the letters of apology dispersed throughout the series from men, serve to inspire, encourage, motivate, and direct other women to embrace healing themselves. According to Dr. Allen C. Barham Sr., "I’m confident that not only will Stacie’s personal memoir touch your heart, and prod your instincts, but you will also find one, or many, letters in the series that will strike a powerful chord within your spirit that will provoke your emotions to react. Don’t be afraid of reacting, and of acting; it’s the non-action that has kept you stuck".

Harris believes healing broken women leads to healing and restoration of broken boys, men and eventually, families and uses a combination of reflection and restoration as evident through the letters distributed throughout the text as a catalyst to promote this healing process.

Purchase your book today for $14.95 by clicking the link below

Share this information with family and friends

Thank you!!!

LOOK FOR BOOKS II - IV OF THE EMBRACING ME SERIES COMING AUGUST 2013

"16 Tears" 
"Death at 24"
"32 The Awakening"

Hidden in the Secret Place

Each morning I rise with a spirit of gratitude and my heart is filled with the expectation that God shall keep me safe from all harm.  Even when all around me appears to be out of sync and in no particular order, I trust God beyond what I can see.  I lay before the God of my salvation seeking His face, acknowledging Him in all His glory and splendor.  The atmosphere of confusion and chaos has to come in order because of the God I serve and I am NOT afraid, nor am I utterly weary having been beaten to the ground but instead, I cry out to my God knowing He will deliver me.  He will lift me up above every circumstance and ALL will know the power, strength and might of my God!

PSALM 27:
The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh,
My enemies and foes, They stumbled and fell.
Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident.
One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the Lord,
And to inquire in His temple.
For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.
And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me;
Therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.
Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice!
Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. 
When You said, “Seek My face,”
My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek”
Do not hide Your face from me;
Do not turn Your servant away in anger;
You have been my help;
Do not leave me nor forsake me,
O God of my salvation.
When my father and my mother forsake me,
Then the Lord will take care of me.
Teach me Your way, O Lord,
And lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies.
Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries;
For false witnesses have risen against me,
And such as breathe out violence.
I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
that I would see the goodness of the Lord
In the land of the living.
Wait on the Lord;
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord!

PRAYER:
Creator of the Heavens and the earth, God of all, refiner of my soul, thank you for being my very present help in the time of trouble.  Thank you for allowing me to experience sheer joy, and peace in the presence of my enemies and my circumstances.  Thank you for shielding me from all harm.  Thank you for always standing strong when I am weak.  Thank you for building me and lifting me.  Thank you for your undying love. In Jesus Name, Amen