Get Ready. Get Set. Go!

Created by Manatha Young,

Individual & Small Business Development Coach

Motivational Speaker

http://www.fruitfullivingnow.com

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Manatha 106

Hello Friends and a hearty welcome to the new readers of Fruitful Living’s Newsletter. I am confident that you will love all of the great information provided that you can incorporate in your life and business today. My ultimate desire is to inspire positive thinking in you, to uncover gifts that lie dormant within, to nurture your creativity, and to equip you with all the empowerment tools needed to bring forth greatness in you personally and professionally.

All it takes is one thought, one word, one step, and one simple act of faith to pull you towards your destiny now.

This Week’s Motivational Boost

Get ready. Get Set. Go!

The New Year is quickly upon us and there is no better time than the present to get ready, to get set, and to go forward in your life. This is the time to start walking out your purpose, vision, and mission. This is not the time to wonder, doubt, procrastinate, stop, or digress. It is the time to hope, believe, anticipate, and expect the impossible being made possible and the unbelievable becoming conceivable. This is your time. Today I would like to encourage you in your quest to fulfilling your dreams with three thoughts to move upon.

Get Ready – Prepare yourself with the tools you need to succeed in your endeavors. Get enrolled in college take some courses related to your field or trade, complete your degree or GED, get certified. Read, read, and read everything related to your niche, trade, or area of interest. The more you know the further you will go. Knowledge is power. It’s available at your local library or through your internet. When in doubt just “Google” it there is a wealth of knowledge stored up for you. So go get it. You will not have to travel far.

Get Set – Get your house in order. Clean out the clutter. Eliminate the distractions. Put things into proper perspective. Activate your internal filter. Release those negative energies, people, and things that do not add but simply subtract and hold you back from moving forward. Prioritize all the demands from greatest to least and handle them right away. Don’t rush through anything. Take your time. In haste we tend to make waste of valuable time and energy that produce delayed but imminent upset along the way. In other words be intentional about every move that you make. Think along the lines of excellence and what that should like. Always strive to live your best, do your best, be your best, and give your best.

Go – Go forward in confidence and with blessed assurance knowing in faith that the best is yet to come. I can’t promise that with every step this year you take that it will not be met with a trial or a disappointment along the way. Position yourself in your mind to be flexible as at times you will be stretched beyond your comfort zone. This kind of stretching has purpose attached to it. Where there is an occasional moment of discomfort or pain there is gain surely to follow. There is nothing wrong with failure when you take your failure and learn from it. Get up, dust yourself off, get ready, get set, and give it a go again.

“If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” (1840 T. H. Palmer Teacher’s Manual 223)

This Week’s Tips

Tips 2

Here are some low to no cost marketing online resources that you can implement today to get the word out about your products or services.
Google AdWordswill help you to promote your business on your own budget. With this amazing tool you can create your ads and use words and keywords unique to your business. Google AdWords promises to target audiences that are looking for what you have to offer locally or globally. Please use the link below for more details. http://www.google.com/adwords/proposal/#sourceid=awo&subid=ww-en-ha-proptest1

Facebook is another world in and of itself with a population of 750 million and growing by the day. Facebook gives you the ability to freely connect on so many different levels that include classmates, special interests, groups, ages, fan pages, and location. All of which you are able to attract and build a community around your business. Facebook allows you create a flexible budget that will best suit your need. Please us the link below for more details. http://www.facebook.com/advertising/?campaign_id=194417723019&placement=exact&creative=5811896192&keyword=facebook+marketing&extra_1=609f4524-8383-bbe9-b2b5-00004c65df41

Linkedin Adsallows you the hands on ability to create and place ads on prominent pages on the LinkedIn.com website. According to Linkedin, People click on your ads and visit your website. You specify which Linkedin members view your ads by selecting a target audience: by job title, job function, industry, geography, age, gender, company name, company size, or Linkedin Group. Control your advertising costs by setting a budget and only pay for the clicks or impressions that you receive. Please use the link below for more details. http://www.linkedin.com/advertising?src=en-all-el-li-hb_ft_ads&trk=hb_ft_ads

You can also sign up for a free Linkedin account. Once you’ve created a profile it will give viewers a snapshot of you background, experiences, education, and interests. You can then begin to connect with others who are like minded, share the same profession, and use it as a stage to present your products and services.

Twitter is a great, free, quick, and easy way to get the word out to your followers. You can tweet daily special offers, promotions, latest news, and updates as it relates to your service or products. It allows you to give real time and concise information. Please use this link to get signed up today. https://twitter.com/

Blogs are a great way to creatively interact and inform audiences about your products and services when used consistently. Being consistent with fresh timely content is the one true way of attracting clients, establishing your voice, and building a strong following. Without the consistency you will just be a one hit wonder. Start today by using one these blog hosting sites to get you on your way. Blogger.com, WordPress.com, Xanga.com, and Blog.com are just a few good ones.

PRLOG is a great way to build some press and get the buzz out about your products, services, or events. PR Log is an online press release distribution and press release submission service that’s free. Please follow this link for more details. http://www.prlog.com

This Week’s Action Challenge

Write out an elevator speech for your business.

A few weeks ago you were encouraged to write out the features and benefits of your business and this week we are going to take it one step further. I would like for you to spend sometime over the next few days formulating an elevator speech for your business. The elevator speech needs to be short, concise, and no longer than 30 seconds.

An elevator speech is an overview of a product, service, person, group or organization, or project and is often a part of a fundraising, marketing communications, brand, or public relations program.
For example:

Hello my name is Manatha Young I’m a motivational speaker, individual, and business development coach who works with individuals, self-employed professionals, and very small businesses who struggle with how to live a fruitful and abundant life, how to manifest their dreams, and how to best market their products and services to attract more clients now!

What separates my service from the competition is that I work primarily with women to inspire positive thinking, to uncover gifts that lie dormant within, to nurture their creativity, and to equip them with all the empowerment and mindset tools needed to bring forth greatness in them personally and professionally.

Once you have completed this exercise please practice it several times out loud in front of the mirror. Then time yourself with a stopwatch or follow this link http://www.online-stopwatch.com/ to make sure that you stay within 30 seconds. Lastly, share it with your spouse, friend, or someone you know and get their feedback.

You may also email your elevator speech for my review and feedback to myoung@fruitfullivingnow.com

To find out more, please call for a complimentary get-acquainted and goal-setting session: 704-750-9184

This Week’s Personal Development Assignment

I would like to encourage you put together a collage that can consist of various clippings from magazines, newspapers, photographs, texts, etc. that captures your dreams and aspirations. Once you have all of your clippings paste or tape them down onto a poster board or construction paper.

This week’s activity is designed to inspire your creativity by unleashing the child within and encourage your faith. Everyday look at your collage and see the possibilities with an attitude of gratitude.

Fruitful Living Events

Ask yourself these questions below:

Do you dream of living a fruitful and abundant life now?

Do you lack the drive and ambition to get what you want out of life?

Are you uncertain of your call, mission, or purpose?

Do you feel the financial pressure of not having enough clients?

Do you wish you could turn more prospects into paying clients?

Do you love what you do but haven’t mastered marketing yet?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then our empowerment coaching seminars might be a fit for you!

Upcoming *FREE* Telesemeniar ”Change your mind and Change your life”

It all begins with a thought. Your mindset affects every area of your life. This teleseminar will allow us to scratch and explore the surface within three days of the importance of having a positive mindset. After each session their will be an assignment given as well. The seminar will start Tuesday, February 7, 2012 and run through Thursday, February 9, 2012 7PM Nightly for approximately 30 Minutes.

Day 1: Think and Believe your way into a fruitful and abundant life Now!

Day 2: Pray, Speak, and Write your way into a fruitful and abundant life Now!

Day 3: Thank and Serve your way into a fruitful and abundant life Now!

Upcoming Seminar: 10 Keys to Marketing a Fruitful and Abundant Business NOW!

Imagine that your practice is full with people who love the services and products that you provide.Imagine having the right systems and tools in place to grow a fruitful business that provides a harvest of clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without really having to work so hard.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the 10 keys you can begin to implement in your business now providing prospective clients a way to find out about your products and services while creating confidence over time that will produce fruitful results. Then be prepared to put into action what you learned to get more clients with ease.

**Save The Date**

Saturday, February 11th, 9:30 am-12:30 pm

Registration is $50.00

Includes: Workbook chock-full of resources, scripts, and ready to use templates to implement in your business

Charlotte, NC – Venue TBA

Complete details are forthcoming in the next issue

Space is limited and registration necessary. Mark the date and RSVP

today at http://www.fruitfullivingnow.com before space runs out.

(If you aren’t able join us, take a moment to forward this to someone who you know would benefit from getting a consistent flow of clients.)
Call Manatha Young at 704-750-9184, e-mail myoung@fruitfullivingnow.com or visit http://www.fruitfullivingnow.com for details.
Fruitful Living Empowerment Coaching Services Empowers you to grow a fruitful and abundant business that attracts a consist flow of clients.

All rights in all media reserved. The content of Fruitful Living’s Newsletter may be forwarded in full without special permission; provided it is used for nonprofit purposes and full attribution is given. For other purposes, please contact Manatha Young at myoung@fruitfullivingnow.com

P.S. Thank you for reading Fruitful Living’s Newsletter today.

Remember,

All it takes is one thought, one word, one step, and one simple act of faith to pull you towards your destiny now.

What To Do While Your Waiting?

Created by Manatha Young,
Individual & Small Business Development Coach
Motivational Speaker
http://www.fruitfullivingnow.com

A Personal note from Manatha

Hello Friends and a hearty welcome to the new readers of Fruitful
Living’s bi-weekly Newsletter. I am confident that you will love all
of the great information provided that you can incorporate in your
life and business today. My ultimate desire is to inspire positive
thinking in you, to uncover gifts that lie dormant within, to nurture
your creativity, and to equip you with all the empowerment tools
needed to bring forth greatness in you personally and professionally.

All it takes is one thought, one word, one step, and one simple act
of faith to pull you towards your destiny now.

This Week’s Fruitful Living Article

What to do while you’re waiting in times of uncertainty?

1.) Pray- to offer devout petition, praise, thanks, etc., to God

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
Philippians 4:6 KJV

The power of prayer is and essential exercise of faith that is often
under estimated. Prayer gives you the believer a direct link to God
the master of the universe. He is all knowing, all-powerful, and by
His spirit exists everywhere at the same time. When you approach God
in humility through prayer you acknowledge him as your source. The
source that allows for you to live, move and to have your being. He
anticipates your prayers.

Prayer is the best thing you can do in times of uncertainty. Daily
communication with God draws you closer to him, strengthens your
faith, allows you to release your cares and fears, restores your
soul, and places you in a position to receive direction from God
concerning your life.

The effectiveness of prayer is not based on how well you pray or the
elaborate words that you say but the condition of your heart. A
heart that is sincere, humble, and confident is able to grasp the
attention of God.

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth,
to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect
toward him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

It is important to schedule prayer in your life preferably at the
start of every day. It will chart the course of your day. Pray at
every opportunity in your mind, in a whisper, or out loud. Pray for
God to give you a praying spirit so that it will be woven into the
fabric of your life.

2.) Attitude of gratitude- the quality or feeling of being grateful
or thankful

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ
Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

It is important that you give thanks for all the many blessings that
God has bestowed upon you. In spite of everything that occurs in your
life and mine on a daily basis there are always a plethora of things
to be thankful for. Things that include but are not limited to;
earth, dwelling, wind, life, breath, air, health, strength, sanity,
peace, joy, family, friends, employment, transportation, finances,
etc.

When you give your time to having and attitude of gratitude it
eliminates pessimism and ignites optimism. You see the cup as half
full and not empty. You see the rainbow after the storm. You see the
light at the end of the tunnel. You see beyond your present
circumstances and at the previews of your soon coming future. You see
God replacing the bad with good, better, and brand new.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love
God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28

3.) Faith- Complete trust or confidence in someone or something.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of
things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

Faith hopes, believes, and trust with full assurance in what it has
yet to obtain. Faith has a firm footing and does not let itself waver
from what it knows to be true. Faith sees a vision and feeds it with
optimism every day as it anticipates the manifestation of a brighter
future.

Your faith determines your altitude in life. It is the gas that fuels
and energizes you tomove from one level to the next. Without faith there can be no progress and elevation. Faith gives wind to your hopes and dreams to
rise and soar like an eagle above times of uncertainty.

Serve- to perform duties or services for

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and
shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.
For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to
you again. Luke 6:38

Sometimes you have to take the attention off of yourself and your
problems to extend a helping hands to other who are in need and are
worse off than you. When you allow yourself to be a conduit that God
can flow through to pour into the lives of others freely with your
time, money, or various acts of service and kindness therein lies a
great reward. You open yourself up to a steady flow of blessings. You
will feel wonderful, appreciative of what you do have, and you will
always have what you need.

Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for
your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of
your righteousness; 2 Corinthians 9:10

This Week’s Tips

Be Present – It’s import to take a no excuses approach to your life.
Seize every opportunity presented to connect, share, impart, grow,
and learn.

Dress the part – It’s important to know that in a matter of seconds
opinions are formed about you before a word is uttered from your
mouth. Appearance is everything. Always seek to dress suitable to the
client, setting, location, meeting, or event.

Know your stuff - Know who you are and what your there for. In other
words be prepared to show the world what you’re working with. People
need to know that you are knowledgeable in your niche or area of
expertise and that you are equipped with a solution to their problem.

Use your voice – How will people know what you have to offer unless
you speak? You are your best cheerleader. Speak confidently and with
a smile.

This Week’s Action Challenge

Write out three feature statements and three benefit statements about your business.

A feature highlights what your service or product provides. A
benefit tells what your product does for your prospects question
regarding “What’s In It For Them.”

For example:

Feature: Fruitful Living empowers you with the keys to grow a
fruitful business.
Benefit: Fruitful Living provides step-by-step coaching sessions to
enable clients to market their businesses with confidence and at ease
while attracting more clients than they would on their own.

Once you have completed this exercise. I want you to practice the
statements out loud until your comfortable sharing it with someone
you know and get their feedback.

To find out more, please call for a complimentary get-acquainted and
goal-setting session: 704-750-9184

You may also email your feature/benefit statements for my review and
feedback to myoung@fruitfullivingnow.com

This Week’s Personal Development Assignment

I would like to encourage you to create your own gratitude journal.
It’s a minimal cost investment that will ultimately lift your spirit
and keep you positive. In this journal please record all the things
that you’re thankful for from day one and every day after. It doesn’t
matter how great or small. It could be gratitude for life, a new
client, shelter, home-cooked meal, a hug from a friend, or a day off
to relax. You can always go back to your journal when you’re not
feeling your best and find encouragement through your personal track
record.

Fruitful Living Events

Ask yourself these questions below:

Do you dream of living a fruitful and abundant life now?
Do you lack the drive and ambition to get what you want out of life?
Are you uncertain of your call, mission, or purpose?
Do you feel the financial pressure of not having enough clients?
Do you wish you could turn more prospects into paying clients?
Do you love what you do but haven’t mastered marketing yet?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then our
empowerment coaching seminars might be a fit for you!

Upcoming *FREE* Telesemeniar “Change your mind and Change your life”

The seminar will start Tuesday, January 24,2011 and run
through Thursday, January 27,2012 7PM Nightly for approximately 30
Minutes.

Day 1: Think and Believe your way into a fruitful and abundant life Now!

Day 2: Pray, Speak, and Write your way into a fruitful and abundant life Now!

Day 3: Thank and Serve your way into a fruitful and abundant life Now!

Upcoming Seminar: 8 Keys to Marketing a Fruitful and Abundant
Business NOW!

Imagine that your practice is full with people who love the services
and products that you provide.

Imagine having the right systems and tools in place to grow a
fruitful business that provides a harvest of clients 24 hours a day,
7 days a week, without really having to work so hard.

In this workshop, we’ll explore the 8 keys you can begin to implement
in your business now providing prospective clients a way to find out
about your products and services while creating confidence over time
that will produce fruitful results. Then be prepared to put into
action what you learned to get more clients with ease.

**Save The Date**

When: Saturday, February 11th, 9:30 am-12:30 pm

Cost of Registration: $50.00

Includes: Workbook chock-full of resources, scripts, and ready to use
templates to implement in your business

Where: Charlotte, NC – Venue TBA
Complete details are forthcoming in the next issue

Space is limited and registration necessary. Mark the date and RSVP
today at fruitfullivingnow.com before space runs out.

(If you aren’t able join us, take a moment to forward this to someone
who you know would benefit from getting a consistent flow of
clients.)

************************************************************
Call Manatha Young at 704-750-9184, e-mail
myoung@fruitfullivingnow.com or
visit http://www.fruitfullivingnow.com for details

************************************************************

Fruitful Living Empowerment Coaching Services
Empowers you to grow a fruitful and abundant business that attracts a
consistent flow of clients.

P.S. Thank you for reading Fruitful Living’s Newsletter today!

Remember,

All it takes is one thought, one word, one step, and one simple act
of faith to pull you towards your destiny now.

A Prayer Nugget

Drop Everything And Pray

Stop where you are and just pray. Pray in your mind, under your breath, with a whisper, in your heart, out loud, on your knees, in your chair, or prostrate. It doesn’t matter the position that you take. Somewhere right now a prayer is needed. A response is soon to come. A problem resolved. A soul saved. A body healed. A divine intervention has occurred. A mind regulated to a place of peace. All this becomes possible when you stop for a second to pray. There is power in your prayer and no power without it. When you feel the unction to pray… just do it.

True Prosperity

^“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 2-3)

Did you know that it’s God’s desire that you prosper, thrive, succeed, excel, flourish and live a fruitful and abundant life? Not just in one, or two areas, but in all areas.

This scripture was the very inspiration for the name Fruitful Living. When I got a hold of it I ran with it and I am determined not to let it go. With every round in this fight of life I aim to go higher and higher knowing that with each level there will be a new devil. I have taken some major hits and survived some major storms, but I’m still standing. I don’t know where this note of encouragement finds you today, but know that God desires the best for you above everything else.

I can’t promise you that you wont ever hit rock bottom, have some bad days, or experience some sleepless nights on this journey, but I can promised you that by faith in yourself and in God you will overcome and rise like the phoenix from it’s ashes.

The bible encourages us by saying, “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

God is doing a wonderful work in your life and sometimes with that work you are going to experience a mixture of rain, thunder, sleet, snow, lightening, and strong winds. Some of which at times will knock you off your feet and right on your back. If you land on your back you can still look up to God and find strength. If you are alive right now and are reading this or having it read to you, then therein lies hope for you. God will use every aspect of your life to work together for your good. Know this, get this, and believe it.

This thing that you may be facing; such as poor health, job loss, bankruptcy, unruly child, failing economy, abuse, poverty, addiction, anxiety, or whatever your thing is will have it’s day and it will past. It is not here to stay forever. Thank you God. In everything we go through there is still a reason to give thanks. You are not alone in the struggle. Many are right where you are and others are far worse off than you in their struggle. Keep your head up and don’t throw in the towel. I’m rooting for you and praying for you.

In closing, don’t become consumed with the glitz and glam of this world and all its shine. It looks nice and everything, but it’s temporary. You can have the mansion today, the Mercedes Benz, and all the money that your bank account can hold, but it’s not long lasting or eternal. There is no guarantee. Prosperity is not limited to material things, being rich or having fame and fortune. Prosperity is to have joy unspeakable when all hell is breaking loose in your life; Prosperity is to be in great health with a zero balance in your account; Prosperity is to have peace of mind when you are given a pink slip and a box to gather up your things; Prosperity is to recover from cancer when the Doctor said you have 6 weeks to live and now 7 years later your still here. Prosperity is to be given a vision or word from God that will give you the power to get wealth that no one has ever seen or heard of. What God has to offer is far better than anything this world can ever present on a silver, gold, or platinum platter.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

My hope is built on God. He is a sure foundation to rest on and invest some time in. What he offers is non-perishable and everlasting.

Please visit http://fruitfullivingnow.com/ for more empowering words of encouragement.

Abundant Blessings,
Manatha

P.S. I welcome your comments.

Reflecting

Moms,

“I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.” Philippians 3:12-14 (The Message)

This year has had its bitter sweet moments. Some days and nights were like a bitter tear jerker candy if you will, adjusting to my growing family and maintaining a full time job outside of the home. Once I got a hold on to everything life soon became sweeter to me. This only happened when I took the focus off of myself and embraced the fact that my family is my first ministry. At the end of the day that’s what really counted the most.

I really thought I could do it all and still be effective, but that would be the farthest thing from the truth. Something had to give and that was me. When I swallowed that pill of reality, the Lord began to use family and friends to be of service to me by providing much needed help. This included baby sitting, chores around the house, words of encouragement, and the gift of presence. These many acts of kindness allowed for some occasional “me time” and to do a few things that I love to do as it relates to ministry beyond the home.

God in essence helped me to find balance this year and that it was ok to enlist the help of others. I was able to handle and endure more than I ever could have imagined. Truly our Lord will not put any more on us then we can bear. I am thankful for his confidence in me and for the merciful grace provided to me daily.

It is a pleasure and a joy to watch my daughters grow, evolve, and interact with each other. I wouldn’t exchange it for the world. I can never get back this time. So, I embrace the occasional struggles of rearing my children and daily I see thousands of reasons to give praise for each of their lives. I love Kimora’s laughter, her hugs, big dove eyes, and to hear her say “I love you mommy”. I love Briyanna’s sensitivity to me when I pretend to be crying. She will make her way on hands and knees to see about mommy. And boy does she have a hearty laugh that will get anybodies attention. I love Brielle’s fight; I see it in her already to not give up. Brielle has a beautiful smile that will light up a room. I could go on and on about the three. I am thankful for my two stepdaughters Saniya and Janiya and the joy they bring when they visit. They really look out for their little sisters, well mannered and respectful. Ms. D you are doing a great job raising them. I love my husband for loving me unconditionally and accepting me just as I am. I’m thankful for him being so forgiving of me. Lord knows I can be a handful at times. He’s a great provider, awesome father, and did I say, he loves me?!

In closing, this season of life has made me a stronger person, a more loving wife to my husband, and a better mom to my children.

Take time to day to reflect, give thanks, and tell your family that you love them and why you love them. It’s one thing to say I love you and it’s another thing to share why.

Blessings Overflowing,

Manatha

The Introduction to Words of Strength For Mothers

Hi Moms,

My name is Manatha Young and I’m part of a beautiful blended family. Together my husband and I have five adorable daughters Kimora, Brielle and Briyanna (twins) and Saniah and Janiah (twins). It has truly been a wonderful learning and growing experience. I wouldn’t exchange one day of it for the world.

My dear sister and friend, Tracy, one of the Godmothers of Kimora, Brielle, and Briyanna encouraged and inspired me to do this blog. As I began to think about the past few years of marriage and the addition of children with its ups, downs, pain, time of lost, moments of praise and triumph it brings tears to my eyes.

On December 11, 2004, I was in a terrible accident where I endured a fractured pelvis in three places and later discovered I miscarried as a result with my first child 4 months into the pregnancy. I was in the fight of my life from that point on. There were many challenges in my life before then but it seemed like for the next 5 years my battles had intensified.

My family and marriage was under attack in every kind of way. Weapons seem to form and come at me from every direction. There were many occasions where I found myself walking a lonely road of frustration, heart ache, disappointment, and fear. I was so wounded and broke down successfully massing the pain by keeping friends and family at bay. There wasn’t one person I trusted enough to be transparent with to expose my scars. During that season I learned to take it all to the Lord in prayer. He was the only one strong enough to handle me and my issues without casting judgment. He truly became my trusted confidant and comforter. Through it all, I am grateful to say that my family is still standing. Thank you Jesus!

I am just so humbled and overwhelmed right now with what God has called me to do with this page. He will truly take your ashes and turn into to something beautiful. Give you the oil of joy when you are mourning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. If I might add, he will also give you double for your trouble.

In this new season of life it’s my desire to be a blessing by sharing through my own personal experiences as a wife, mother, and minister. Together we will team up as and alliance of mothers of faith who will serve as a catalyst of strength for other mothers.

It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you Words of Strength for Mothers.

Where it’s a time to talk, vent, pray, cry, laugh, share, testify, and give thanks for the added blessings in our lives.

God has so gifted, anointed, chosen and blessed us because he knew we could handle it. Most of all He knew he could trust us with more.

My Mission: To empower mothers with prayer, motivation, encouragement, and support to bring love, strength, balance, and wholeness to their homes with virtue and grace.

I am also a proud member and leader of a Moms in Touch prayer group in my community. Moms In Touch is an interdenominational, nonprofit organization where two or more moms gather together to pray for children and schools. Where moms experience how to replace anxiety and fear with peace and joy by praying specifically and scripturally for children and schools. For more information, call Manatha at (704) 750-9184 or visit the MITI website at www.MomsInTouch.org.

Words of Inspiration

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV

D.E.A.P

D.E.A.P

Drop Everything And Pray

What can bring calm to chaos and peace to a storm. What can bring forth light out of darkness? What can restore the broken and lost things. What can bring forth healing. What can bring peace of mind? What can save a lost soul? The answer is the power of prayer. Prayer is our direct communication to God. It is the umbilical chord if you will that plugs us into His power source providing us with the spiritual nutrients of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, fruitfulness, gentleness, and self control (fruits of the spirit). Prayer is an essential weapon that every child of God needs, should use, and possesses the ability to do. Oftentimes this free access to the thrown of God is taken for granted.

What a friend we have in Jesus,

All our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry

Everything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit,

Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer!

-Joseph M. Scriven

The last three years beginning with the birth of my daughter Kimora and then 6 months ago with the birth of my twin daughters Brielle and Briyanna has really been a time of testing and challenging of my faith. Kimora has had pneumonia, recurring ear infections, and issues with allergies to the present. Brielle and Briyann have both been in and out of the ER and our Dr’s office with complications of Bronchiolitus. Bronchiolitis is an inflammation of the small passages in the lungs usually caused by a viral infection. In addition, My husband has been diagnosed with high blood pressure. We are believing God for his total healing.

My marriage has been tried on several occasions trying to adjust to our growing family. We have been at odds on several occasions about childcare, working from home, insurance benefits, increased expenses, budgeting, and so forth. It has put an emotional strain on our marriage. Sometimes leaving little or no room for simply spending quality and loving time together. All the while we have been trying to provide a happy front for our children without placing them in a crossfire while we duke out our issues of providing them with the best. Our struggling economy hasn’t presented much help as well. Finances have been tight and patience has grown short.

Through it all, I’ve been able to find solace and strength in prayer. It’s a sure and proven weapon. It allows me the ability to create an altar of prayer anywhere to execute it. My altar can be in my head, a whisper under my breath, in bed, on my knees, prostrate, in a car, on the job, through a moan, tears, songs, in one or two words (Jesus, Lord Help me.,) with others, or in my spiritual language. God is always there to hear our call.

The bible encourages us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to pray without ceasing. This means that prayer should be woven into every aspect of our lives on a daily and continual bases. It’s as essential as water and food is for our basic survival. Not only does prayer allow for direct communication with God, it also by faith creates a barrier of protection around you and your family.

Now, please understand that weapons are still going to form, but according to God’s words in Isaiah 54:17 It shall not prosper. In all my experiences listed prior, those weapons indeed attacked my family and I, but we are still standing and able to give God thanks and praise that our daughters today are fully healed and my marriage is intact.

Mothers, we are fighting in a war everyday of our lives. So It’s important that we be equipped for the battle creating a shield of protection for our families. The word of God reinforces the importance of this in Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—

This scripture is powerful because it reinforces the importance of prayer and gives us a guide as to how we can pray for ourselves and our families making sure that they are covered from head to toe with the armor of God. Prayer is the key element that binds all of our armory together and prepares us in every way to handle everything that presents itself in battle. This scripture helps us to see that this is more than just a physical battle but a spiritual one. Greasing our cheeks and elbows for a physical fight wont cut it. We have to be spiritually equipped to fight against our adversary. He’s out for more than just blood. He wants to rob us of our salvation, peace joy and joy. He want to destroy the institution of marriage and corrupt and interrupt the destiny of our offspring. Genesis 3:15 records, “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” From this we know that this is a serious matter that requires some serious prayer.

Through prayer we recognize and acknowledge who our source is. The source being God . the Lord God who is mighty in battle. Through prayer He will guide us through any obstacle we are faced with. We don’t go at it alone in our own strength. The battle is not our it’s the Lord. Fight your way to victory with and through prayer. Don’t delay. D.E.A.P

My Prayer

Lord God almighty, I give you all the honor glory and praise. You alone are holy and worthy. Father please search me now and cleanse me of all unrighteousness and sin. Create in me a clean heart and renew within me a right spirit.

Lord I thank you for the privilege to pray and the power of prayer.
Thank you for blessing me with a vehicle to reach and encourage mothers.

Lord provide us today with more love, strength, peace, patience, joy, and comfort. thank you for putting a touch of your super on their natural ability to do all that they have to do in this day.

Lord please gird our waist with the belt of truth, ensure that our feet is covered with the shoes of peace. Lord cover us with the shield of faith to be able to withstand the arrows of the wicked one. Lord place the helmet of salvation over our heads. Keep us in our right minds, mentally sane and focused. Lord remind us to daily carry the sword of the spirit being your holy word. Lastly, please give all mothers a praying spirit.

In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Leaving a Legacy of Faith for Our Children

Mothers,

I have given great thought over the past several months of the legacy I wish to leave behind for my birth and spiritual daughters. It has truly been resting upon me heavily and with urgency that I must get to work laying this foundation for them to build on. It’s true; one day we all have a divine appointment with our creator to vacate this earth. While we are here let’s make the best of our time and impart into the lives of our children all that is right, just, pure, and of good report.

Legacy:

Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past.I am curently imparting the following now into my children using every moment as a teachable one.

Vision

“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” Proverbs 29:18 KJV

I wish to give them my vision, my insight, and hope for the future that will sustain and encourage them in tough times. I wish to share with them the precious things God has shown me that will be a blessing to them and the generations to come. It is my prayer that this vision will keep them centered, focused and grounded.

Wisdom

Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7

I wish for them to seek to get wisdom diligently. It is the principal thing. O…Yes it will cost you a great deal, but it’s an investment that will yield a great return. It’s something that money can’t buy and solely God can provide through various avenues. Life experiences accompanied by trial and error will produce wisdom, seasoned elders, teachers, and mentors are a good resource that will provide one with words of wisdom and council.

Fight & Faith

“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.” Matthew 11:12 NKJV

I wish for them to be inspired by my tenacity for survival and my ability to role with the punches of life. Certainly there are going to be moments when life will beat you down, but use those “down” moments to learn from. Get up from the ground. Dust yourself off. Give it your best shot. Step out on faith, pursue, take charge, and overcome. After you’ve done your best, stand still and watch God work a miracle.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13 KJV

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” Ephesians 3:20 NKJV

I want my children to know that all that they need is locked up inside of them. God has given them the key and the authority to unlock the gifts, talents, and abilities. And God will provide all the resourced needed with the right people in order to fulfill their God given purpose.

“A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.” Proverbs 18:16 NJKV

The ability to adapt and diversify

I want my children to be as the chameleon with its ability to adapt and adjust to different surrounding. We are not simply a race of one color, but we are of the human race existing of many colors. We represent a body with many parts that are all important and essential to the whole picture. Observe and learn from others of different ethnicity and backgrounds.

Knowledge & Wealth

“And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.” Deuteronomy 8:18

I wish to share my knowledge and to inspire them to go after it. For in it lies power. It is God who gives us the knowledge to get wealth. Your knowledge is power, and without the word of God, some book smarts, and street smarts it’s going to be hard. God’s wisdom, understanding and knowledge will help maintain their wealth and stability. The wealth I’m speaking about is more than money. A wealth of health, joy and peace can’t be bought with money.

Our children need a good sound education and the resources (books, mentor, tutor, youth geared programs, leadership training, cultural awareness, etc.) to compliment and assure steadfast confidence, academic excellence, professional success, optimal wellness, and financial savvy. Now that’s wealth. They must also remember that it’s not only about them, but about them sharing what they have learned and acquired with the world. It’s a kingdom assignment and kingdom work for the kingdom of God.

I Surrender ALL

Hi Moms!

I have had some really good days and some occasionally not so good ones, but they have all been a blessing. I try to center my self on what really matters most and that is family and to find the lesson to be learned in every moment. Everyday that I’m allowed to stare into the eyes of my girls smothering them with tender kisses and to be embraced by the strength and support of my husband anchors me.

The past few weeks my ministry has picked up. I am currently working with some wonderful teenage girls at a local church in my community where I am instructing them in the area of liturgical dance. In addition, I am focusing some of my energies on the launch of my organization Fruitful Living, LLC that focuses on self development and empowerment. My website is finally in it’s finishing stages and people are starting to build some buzz about it. In this stage of my life I am seeing how important it is to leave a legacy for our children. Every thing I do in building this organization is for them. It’s requiring some blood, sweat, and tears, but in the end I know that it will all pay off even when I have passed on.

When times get tough moms and our backs are pressed against the wall don’t forget to lift your hands towards heaven. On this past week, The waves of life came in on me as they do from time to time as I was trying to balance family, ministry, and work. I am one of those people who would like to have everything done at once. Sometimes I wish I had the magical powers of Elizabeth Montgomery in Bewitched and Barbara Eden of I dream of Jeannie, with the twitch of the noes or the blink of the eyes everything was done in an instant. Well in reality we all know that it’s just not going to happen that way. Every once in a while I try to be a super woman and make it happen. When we try to do things in our own strength the results are usually temporal and a mess.

The words of this song below came to mind. In it I was able to find strength.

I surrender All
Words: Judson W. Van DeVenter

All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.

I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.

All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.

All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.

All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!

In my time of my weakness, I just needed to put my hands in the hand of God and surrender all to him. Where I am required by faith to give him all of my cares, concerns, worries, and fears, because if I don’t, I will find myself burdened and frustrated trying to do everything in my own strength. He knows the way I should I take and the plans he has for me, because it is he who created me and gave me life, purpose, and the vision for greatness. So lest I forget I must surrender it all to him. I am finding that it is in the surrender that the dust begins to settle and the waves of life begins to calm and I find strength to mount on the wings of an eagle to soar above it all because He is the wind beneath my wings.

Be encouraged moms. Surrender it all to him. He will supply all of our needs, make the crooked places straight, and smooth out the rough edges. God is setting the stage for us. Keep looking towards the hills from which cometh our help. Our help comes from the Lord.

It’s Not About Me Anymore

That’s a tough realization for many of us moms. Before marriage and children it was all about me. Now that has all changed. You may have to skip a couple hair/nail appointments. No more hanging out with friends all day and sometimes all night depending on what’s going on. Phone calls are short, sweet, and to the point. These days your lucky if you can catch me at all. Emails, text messages, and Facebook seem to keep me in connection with friends. However, there is nothing quite like seeing someone up close and personal. There are days when I just need a hug or to engage in some adult conversation. Date nights with your spouse may be few and far in between. The demands that come with a family a far greater than when it was just you. However, if your faithful it will pay off.

Mothers are truly one of the greatest gifts God gave to the world. We nurture, protect, sacrifice, love unconditionally, and give until it hurts and still keep giving. Our needs in most cases are the last to get met. I recalled on this past week after working an eight hour shift picking up the my daughters from daycare and barely getting past the threshold my daughter Kimora’s plea for my attention. I was trying to unload my 6 month old twins from the van and get them settled. They were both crying. It was the cry for something to eat and all the while Kimora was repeatedly asking for strawberry milk. I asked her to give me a moment to calm the babies and to prepare their bottles. She was not trying to hear that.

She followed me through the house asking me again and again for the milk. I asked if she could wait a moment and she replied by saying no. I continued preparing the bottles steadily assuring her that she would be next. To no avail, she continued and then started crying. Thankfully, I am no stranger to multi-tasking. God knew we would need that ability. So he gifted mothers with that strength. The tune of three crying babies was a bit much. It’s the norm, but right after work with no time to whine down was weighing on me. I then stopped preparing bottles and quickly got her strawberry milk together. She was relieved and went on her merry way. I then proceeded to feed both babies. That was a task in of it self.

Later that evening, I decide to try and rest my bones on the recliner in my room for a moment. My husband was home by this time. Kimora was there again requesting one thing after the other. I said to her, Mommy is tired. I need to rest for a moment. Can you give me a minute. Daddy can do it for you. Don’t you think Mommy could use some rest. Her reply to me was No. I was appalled at her response. I though to myself, wow she is so selfish. I am so exhausted, can’t she see that I’m worn out. There I was trying to reason with a three year old who could care less about what mommy needed. All she wanted was her mommy’s attention and what she wanted. I mustered up the strength and gave into her demands.

I said all of this to say, that these early years are very crucial for the spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical development of our children. It’s truly not about us, but about them. Sometimes, we are going to have to bite the bullet, suck it up, and rely on God’s strength to put his super on our natural ability. The bible encourages us in Proverbs 22:6 to “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn form it. ” It is our responsibility to lay a good solid foundation in our children. We are to train, instruct, guide, encourage, nurture their gifts, gently chasten and correct them. So that when they are old enough to leave from under our roof they will have enough teaching in them to survive amidst the negative influences in the world.

I’m aware that there is not a perfect child and some of our children may stray, but we have to trust that because we were faithful to God in partnering with him in raising our children that he will keep them in his safety.

The parable of the prodigal son was where a young man desired his inheritance right away and went off into the world to experience life in the fast lane. He quickly discovered that everything that glitters ain’t gold. The grass is not always greener on the other side and just Like Dorothy in Wizard of Oz he realized that there was no place like home. While he was away he lost everything and had to succumb to a life that was beneath him. He was forced to work in a field of pigs. Thankfully, he came to himself realizing that life was better with is father and returned back home (Luke 15: 11-32).

My friend Raquel said it best on this past Mother’s day in a text. I will share her words in just a moment. My husband had a terrible sinus infection leading up to that day. It literally had him on his back. He couldn’t even work and he’s a workaholic. I experienced what it was like being a single mom for that week. My hat goes off to all the single mothers. My mother raised me and my two brothers by herself. It was not easy. Please know that I’m praying for you. Well on Mother’s day rather than everyone catering to me it was I doing the catering. I received a beautiful card from Kimora. He gave me a card as well, a balloon, and a frozen cheek cake:). I was touched, but on the inside I was crying. This was supposed to be “My day”. Well Raquel’s text borough some comic relief. It read, Our reward is in heaven. I busted out in laughter. I agree with her wholeheartedly, but I believe we will experience some fruits form our labor here on earth as well.

God sees and he knows all about what occurs in our individual homes on a daily basis. Sometimes I look back over the course of an hour, day, week and wonder how I made it. It was truly God to have kept me in my right mind and out of a stray jacket. Stay encouraged Moms. You are doing a great work. These moments are so dear and precious and will be gone before we know it. Let’s cherish them and allow those little interruptions to become teachable and enjoyable moments for both us and our children.