It Had To Happen

Excerpt from Chapter 5 Make A Sound Decision to Change!

2012-03-06T16:37:00.002-06:00

It is easy to become paralyzed with fear and do nothing. We are also paralyzed by our constant failures, or just not knowing what to do. Sitting, waiting, existing and doing nothing allows disputes in our minds to escalate. But you know what? Today, right now you can win this dispute. And you know how? Win by choosing to make the decision, by choosing to make the focus of your life knowing God and by making God your purpose in life. If you were to make that decision, I guarantee that it would be completely life changing. You will never be the same.

Sisters, in order for us to receive full deliverance we have to be connected spiritually to God. I truly believe when you are in a desperate state it will cause you to seek the Lord wholeheartedly. It is when your backs are against the wall and when you are in a place where you don’t know what to do, that is when we are forced to make a decision to lean on God or turn further away from Him. This is what I believe happened in the case of our woman with the issue of blood. Based upon what she heard about Jesus, she was motivated to make a decision. The decision changed her life forever.

I believe positioning yourself for purpose is predicated on your next decision. In the book of Ruth, we can see an example of this type of determination through two devoted friends Ruth and Naomi. I am encouraged through Ruth because here we have a young woman who was a princess. She is the great grand-daughter of King Eglon of Moab. She was married to Mahlon who later died and now she is a young widow. She is faced with a situation that is hopeless. She has no husband, no money and no means to take care of herself.

I don’t know if you are aware of this, but in those days widows had no standing in the community and were totally dependent upon the good will of their families and friends for survival. It was the duty of the Priests to look after widows and orphans, but there was no such provision in Moab because there was famine in the land.

But something happens to change her destiny through the wisdom of her mother-in-law Naomi. Chapter 1 verses 6-7 says, “One day she got herself together, she and her two daughters-in-law, to leave the country of Moab and set out for home; she had heard that God had been pleased to visit his people and give them food. And so she started out from the place she had been living, she and her two daughters-in-law with her, on the road back to the land of Judah” (Message Bible). Sisters, feeling sorry for yourselves or continue to wallow in your pity parties is not going to help you. Naomi’s action is what I call decisive faith – faith that says, “I have to make the decision and get myself together.” She received a word God was blessing the people and decided it is time to take a step of faith towards her destiny.

This is one of the problems we face as women. When we have things that block our perspective on what is going on, we can be so close to God, but yet so far away. We can avoid the consequences of poor decisions by taking God’s word seriously. You may think you have been rejected, excluded, cutoff and shutout but I want to encourage you that God wants to put a word down in your spirit that will enable you to get up and make a decision to begin moving toward your deliverance.

After examining her situation, Ruth refuses to take “no” as her final answer and decides to leave her current state and go. She decided to go with Naomi to Bethlehem. Ruth did not allow herself to be paralyzed by her lack of a husband. She understood God’s promised provision and was willing to position herself for purpose. She understood it would take acts of obedience and diligence and was able to receive the blessings of God.

Ruth was able to discern when her season was up. In Ruth 1:16 the scripture says, “But Ruth replied, ‘Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’ ” She realized she was in a difficult place because there was a famine. You have to shift your focus. Quit looking at your situation and start anticipating your blessings. Don’t be so preoccupied with your current situation that you don’t see beyond it. For example, if you’re having problems with your job, look beyond it. If you are having difficulties in a relationship, get past it.

Or are you like Orpah? Who was so preoccupied with her situation she could not discern the blessings ahead. Orpah made a decision to turn and go back. Orpah was a woman full of unbelief and empty of wisdom. She made a mistake on making a now decision on a then experience. She was limiting her future to her past. She had more faith in her lack than she had in the promise. Sisters when you do that, you are limiting what you could be based upon what you have been. Just like our sister Orpah, you become preoccupied with problems and situations, when you should be looking at opportunities.

Instead of focusing on negative, develop an attitude of expectancy. To say you were born this way and you will never change ~ negative. To say this is how I am and it is what it is ~ negative. Your current situation isn’t the destination, but a chance to alter the course to get there. You have to take a stand and be bold enough to say like Ruth, “No is not an option,” and declare, “I’m going all the way. I am moving forward!”

Cynthia A. Patterson
Author & Inspirational Speaker
CEO & Founder, DOVE Ministries Inc.
P.O. Box 722338
Houston, TX 77272

Inquiries requesting Cynthia Patterson for church, empowerment seminars, universities, community colleges, corporate, women's retreats and conferences or consultations send an email to info@dove-ministries.org.

To order your copy of "It Had to Happen", click on this link http://www.amazon.com/It-Had-to-Happen-ebook/dp/B005AHR8W6/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1308016296&sr=1-1

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T00:20:00.002-06:00

I wanted to take this day to sow "seeds of love" and wish you a Happy Valentine's Day. Please take a moment to think of other people you can tell how much you love them, i.e. family and friends. Send emails, make calls, spread your love.

Enjoy the day, have good thoughts and enjoy your life!

God bless you,

Cynthia A. Patterson

-:)

Introduction (Excerpt from It Had to Happen)

2012-01-23T22:10:00.000-06:00

Sisters, we are living in a society where so many of us are searching and probing for the answers to this thing we call life. We are in a society where many of us are seeking to understand our purpose. We are changing our degree plans. We are changing our careers. We are changing our hairstyles. We are changing our dress to the latest trends. We have become serial daters: one month we’re with this guy and the next month with another man. Some of us are even changing to an alternative lifestyle. And you know why?

As women, we seek affirmation and praise. We want someone to approve of us. We hunger for protection and assurance. We strive for love and security. God has designed for us to grow from babies to little girls, then from little girls to young ladies, and now, God wants you to blossom into a woman who is whole. Many of us do not realize that it is the trick of the devil to keep our purpose veiled, because the devil knows that true purpose is engendered in God, and that a woman who finds her true purpose will become Satan’s enemy.

We have heard and quoted many scriptures: “Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning,” “What the devil meant for evil, God meant it for good,” and “All things work together for the good of them who love God and are called according to His purpose.” The list is endless. While these scriptures bring us comfort and peace at times, it is a daily struggle to accept them as truth in the daily reality of our lives. Yes, we really want to believe our pain is passing and that one day our joy will be permanent. But wherever we are today, we are still asking God – Why?

Why am I having sleepless nights? Why am I still dealing with this hurt, rather than escaping from it? Why am I missing the mark of being a submissive wife and loving my husband? Why does my child continually disrespect me? Why do I keep going in and out of so many dysfunctional relationships?

Why are you feeling continually disappointed? Why it is everyone is coming to you for the answers to their issues and you can’t even figure out your own? Why it is that every night when we lie in our beds, dark thoughts come against our minds? We’re told, “You are nothing… If you would not have done this, that would not have happened… If you would have been a better this, they would not have done that…” and so on. Things are so tough right now you can’t even share with your girlfriends because you are the one who is “supposed to” have it together.

The truth of the matter is that we have been walking around, masking our feelings and closing the door to our own thoughts about what we are really feeling. We avoid embracing the reality that everything we dream for has been shattered into pieces. We don’t have the will or desire to stoop down, pick up the pieces and put them together again. We are emotionally drained, physically tired and just going through the motions of life in a near comatose state.

Now that we have painted a picture of where you are in your struggles, what comes next? While a picture is worth a thousand words, it is merely a snapshot of where you are in time. It does not show how you are viewed at that particular moment in time. Now we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, not only to retrace our past steps, but to clearly see the direction of our future.

For the next several chapters, we will take this journey together and discover the answer to these questions. It is my prayer that you will be open to experiencing a life-changing paradigm that you have desperately tried to find. Together, we will explore the issues that have positively and negatively influenced our emotional behavior.

This is a book for healing, restoring and focusing on our relationship with God. We will explore the life of a woman in the Bible, whose story is told in the book of Mark chapter five. She intensely suffered for twelve years, but through determination and perseverance, obtained the help she desperately needed. This book was birthed out of a personal desire to offer practical insight into God’s healing power. Just like the woman in the fifth chapter of Mark, God does not discriminate in providing healing for those who are suffering. He will do the same for you, if you allow Him.

Please note my sisters, this book is meant for those who are ready to read it. It’s a voluntary, personal choice for women who say, “I’m feeling you,” “I know someone who needs this,” and “How can I help?” Now if this is handed to you by someone, continue reading it; they are sowing a seed into your life. Afterward, pass it on to someone else and sow a seed into their lives. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:6, “My work was to plant seed in your hearts, and another to water it, but it was God, not we, who made the garden grow in your hearts” (KJV). Remember, it had to happen. Click on the Amazon link below and purchase your hardcover, paperback or eBook editions. Also available at Barnes & Noble and other online stores.

http://www.amazon.com/It-Had-to-Happen-ebook/dp/B005AHR8W6/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1308016296&sr=1-1

DOVE's love and big hugs,

Cynthia A. Patterson

Author, Bible Teacher & Inspirational Speaker

CEO & Founder, DOVE Ministries Inc.

P.O. Box 722338

Houston, TX 77272

(832) 323-DOVE (3683)

http://www.dove-ministries.org/

www.facebook.com/doveministryinc

http://www.facebook.com/pages/DOVE-Ministries-Inc-Preparing-Women-for-Purpose/127838747293521

https://twitter.com/#!/cyndypatterson

Inquiries requesting Cynthia Patterson for church, empowerment seminars, women retreats, women conferences or consultations send an email to info@dove-ministries.org.

Thank You

2012-01-03T10:22:00.002-06:00

I wanted to take this moment to thank you for your support and following "It Had to Happen" book blog. We had an awesome year in 2011. I wanted to post a 30-second clip to let you know the results of the book and the impact it has made on women lives through the message of faith and hope. I am so excited about 2012. The best is yet to come!

Enjoy my friends!

Make your own slide show at Animoto.

Review Written by OOSA Online Book Club "O.O.S.A. Gets It Read!"

2011-11-28T18:49:00.000-06:00

Let Go and Let God!, November 27, 2011

This review is from: It Had to Happen (Kindle Edition)

At one point or another on our journey throughout life we ask ourselves two important questions, how did we get to the point we're in, in our lives, and who are we really? In "It Had to Happen," author Cynthia A. Patterson assists the reader in finding the answers to these two questions while providing the tools for the reader to connect with God.

Each chapter begins with a helpful quote to jumpstart the chapter and ends with questions and the reader journaling their response. The author provides detailed biblical passages to help open and close doors in a reader's life and begin a future of empowered change.

Pick yourself up a copy. I'm certain you will not be disappointed. What is the saying? It's easier to let go and let God. Happy Reading!

Reviewed by: Sabrina

Review from Teresa Beasley, APOOO BookClub

2011-11-05T21:23:00.001-05:00

4.0 out of 5 stars Finding Your Purpose, November 4, 2011

Teresa Beasley (Indianapolis,IN) - See all my reviews

This review is from: It Had to Happen (Paperback)

In It Had To Happen by Cynthia A. Patterson readers are provided tools that will help them find their purpose and strengthen their relationship with God. This book is a guide that focuses on emotions, experiences and self-discovery. This nine-chaptered book includes biblical examples, end of the chapter questions and reflections to journal to give readers techniques for devotion.

It Had To Happen is a book of healing and restoration. I enjoyed chapter five, Don't Give Up! because it expresses to readers that God does not break a promise and what He has for you no one will be able to take it away. You must always seek Him first in your time of need through prayer. I also enjoyed chapter six because it explains the spiritual qualities such as humility and determination readers will need to fight distractions that will try to stop you from returning to God.

I have read previous self-help, inspirational and motivational books and this one was truly written as a teaching tool. The author uses powerful biblical examples so that readers can understand the message from the book. The book allows readers to learn from the lessons by providing them with end of the chapter questions. These questions will give readers the opportunity to come to terms with their emotions in order to heal and move on. This book is very inspirational and I recommend it to others.

This book was provided by the author for review purposes.

Teresa Beasley
APOOO BookClub

A Book Review: God is in the Equation by Adrienna Dionna Turner

2011-10-14T10:42:00.008-05:00

I must say the cover and title along caught my interest to read this book. Wow, I tell you it is a book that will change your understanding about what it means to be a person of faith.

Turner challenges us to look beyond just adding God when we need Him. But be willing to work in the true authority God has provided us to fulfill our God given purpose. Her questions at the end were very thought provoking and definitely make you look deep inside. This is not one of those books where you read and move to the next book. No, you really need to read it with intention and focus so you can began to move forward in destiny.

I truly enjoyed this book and recommend you read. Definitely, a great book for adult discipleship groups. If you are serious about taking your spiritual life to another level – FOR REAL, then read “God is in the Equation”, your journey to spiritual maturity awaits you!

Available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other bookstores.

http://www.amazon.com/God-Equation-Adrienna-Dionna-Turner/dp/1463402686/ref=sr_1_5?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1318607481&sr=1-5

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/god-is-in-the-equation-adrienna-turner/1104131447

Co-Host... Who Me?

2011-10-13T00:00:00.002-05:00

Co-hosting a blog hop? Wow, I was honored when asked by Katherine to co-host her "Thursday Favorite Things Blog Hop". Honestly, I had no clue what it was and what I needed to do! Katherine assured me it would be "eazy peazy". She was absolutely right!

Friends, her blog has been so helpful to me from her wonderful encouraging stories, her super-duper giveaways, but most importantly her "killer" recipes. I have been able to cook some amazing dishes through her recipes. Click on the link button and you can learn how too.

Katie, I am so honored to co-host with you this week. Girl, you ROCK... Smooches and big hugz!!!

Okay friends here are the details...

"Thursdays Favorite Things Hop" is where you can link your favorite post to share with old and new followers!

Here are the rules, yes there are rules. But just a few:

You must follow Katherines Corner. If you’re a new follower, please let her know and she'll follow back . Please also follow my book blog: It Had To Happen too before you start hopping. Leave a comment for us so we know that you stopped by.

Please, please, please...
*No adult content blogs.
*Blogs only.

Follow as many other blogs in the list as you can. Just click and go.
Leave a sincere comment or message on each of the blogs you visit and follow so they know you stopped by.

Now hop on and lets share our favorites. If you’d like to post this blog hop on your page please just grab the linky code.

Or if you would like to be a co-host please contact Katherine.

Please grab the hop button to share with others, you can copy and paste the image with a link to KatherinesCorner.com OR grab the code from Katherine's Corner it's on the right sidebar.

It’s always nice to have the hop button on the post you link up. But it's NOT mandatory.

Happy Hopping Friends!!!

Wow, Does Time Flies!

2011-10-08T22:54:00.004-05:00

As I sit here and look out of the window, it is such a beautiful day. I was thinking, it is less than 90 days remaining in 2011. This time of year, I usually do self-reflection. I ask myself: "look back on this year which of your goals have you reached"? "Which ones haven't you reached? Has it been a good year"? "A productive or non-productive year"?

Friend, as a word of encouragement to you, take some time to ask yourself these questions as well and dot down your answers. I have an even better idea! Take this time to get a journal and journal your answers, this way when you read your journal this time next year you can see the progress you have made.

I always have kept a journal. Even as a little girl, I kept a diary. My thoughts, my ideas, my successes, my challenges and whatever else I decide to keep track of where my life is concerned. I invite you to do the same. You never know what may happen. Your journal may end up a book ...**wink**!

Life is ever changing. Things happen and as time moves forward we often forget about them. Capture those precious moments of your life and then go back and read them just to see how far you have come. You would even surprise yourself! Keep moving, stay on purpose, and have an awesome week!

Cyndy

Be Careful What You Say!

2011-09-24T20:00:00.000-05:00

"Never say anything about yourself you do not want to come true”. ~ Brian Tracy

Proverbs 18:21 says, words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose. ~ The Message Bible

This is really great advice from Brian Tracy and from scripture out of the Bible. If you become aware of the things you constantly say about yourself you might just uncover something valuable. You might just become aware of your self limiting beliefs that are unconsciously holding you back from really accomplishing great things in your life.

If you can become consciously aware of what you say and think about yourself on a consistent basis you will begin to see why it is that you are where you are and why you're doing what you're doing. If you're in a great rewarding place then you have positive self talk and you say and think great things about yourself. But if you're not where you want to be then you need to do two things.

First - Become aware of your self talk. Do you call yourself names? Do you put yourself down?

Second - Change it from negative to positive. If you don't know what to say at first then start by saying affirmations.

Try it this weekend, only positive you'll be able to move forward and make progress in your life. Take care!

Cyndy Patterson :-)

Encouragement for this Week

2011-09-06T11:55:00.003-05:00

I pray you had an awesome weekend with family and friends. I wanted to share with you an excerpt from my new women's devotional we will include in a care package to women who contact my organization for services. It is my prayer it blesses you. We have included below our upcoming events. So, please mark your calendars and come out and join us.

"Don't Give Up!"

Psalm 112:7

"They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them."

Don't give up. This is your focus this week. It's a matter of sheer determination and settling your mind in what you believe concerning the truth in God's Word. That way when you hear bad news this week, you will remain steadfast because your heart and mind are set; the decision has been made. This week scripture focus is to encourage you to "confidentially trust the Lord to care for you". This means you believe God and agree to follow where He leads even when you don't understand what it's all about or why you are headed in the direction you are going. Embrace the scripture for this week and don't give up no matter what.

Pray this Prayer: Lord, thank you for my life today. Thank you for causing me to serve you with my whole heart. I choose to build myself up today that I will not waver. I praise you because I will not stray today but will be steadfast and immovable! Even in the midst of adversity, I will not be moved. I bless you because I am the head and not the tail. I am going over and not under. I am more than a conqueror! Victory belongs to me. Therefore, I will not give up. In Jesus Name Amen!

September Events

"Every daughter has a role to play in God's story of redemption." Are you ready to let Jesus Christ shine through you and take His truth to a lost world? All of us have our own circle of influence: community, sorority, workplace, neighborhood... that is in desperate need for healing.

Stilettos & Scriptures is a women's empowerment event where women come together monthly for food, fun, and fellowship. For more details 832-323-DOVE (3683).

Event Info

2121 Austin Parkway

Sugar land, TX 77479

September 17, 2011

12:30PM - Meeting Room

Mark your calendars and come out. We are going to have a blast!!!

A Woman with a Passion to help others Pursue their Purpose!

2011-08-26T12:56:00.005-05:00

We've had an awesome week and I wanted to close out these WE Rock (Women Empowered) interviews with an international minister, author and consultant. I connected with Rev. Barnett a few years ago, when she ministered at Higher Dimension Church. It was a powerful word and I prayed Lord, I need to connect with her. Today, I am very thankful to have her here to tell us about her ministry, her book, and a little bit about herself!

CP: Thank you Rev. Barnett, I am so excited to have you here. Give us a brief bio of who you are?

LRB: I am a native of Houston, Texas well-known for a very relevant and spiritually-empowering speaking gift. I am a servant-leader in the Body of Christ who ministers God word that is bold, relevant, energetic and theologically sound to reveal the will of God empowers believers to live it! I am so honored to be called by God and gifted to serve in diverse contexts, to deliver His truth with compassion while touching the heart and stimulating the mind. I have been so blessed to gain the experience in international evangelism and missions, my personal motto is: "The world is my pulpit!"

In November of 2008, “author” was added to my resume’ with the publication of The Intensified Life:Experience God and Live to Tell About It! The book is a study based on a teaching series I created in 2006. Testimonies from men and women about the experience were powerful and continued for more than two years. With the sponsorship of HER Call Ministries the book was published with 100% of the proceeds being donated to the support of Christian leaders in America, Jamaica, Africa and India. The Intensified Life is available nationwide through major book retailers and the Internet.

As CEO of Essentials Intensified Consulting I am providentially poised to share my gifts with the Body of Christ and make eternally significant investments for God's Kingdom. Natural skills and advanced training in counseling (MA in Community Counseling) have combined with spiritual discernment, biblical training (MA in Practical Theology) and practical experience has given me a dynamic foundation from which to advise and provide consulting services to ministries. After serving for more than six years on a pastoral leadership team, including three years as an assistant pastor, I have launched a significant and successful 501c3 non-profit ministry, HER Call Ministries.

CP: This is awesome. With that said, can you give us a brief overview of Her Call Ministries?

LRB: Her Call Ministries is female clergy and visionaries with high-tech training, networking venues, leadership and ministerial resources. Our vision is to inspire and equip women to be dynamic and biblically sound ministers and leaders to advance the Kingdom of God. Our mission is to provide training, coaching and networking that enable women to pursue a plan of action for integrating faith, family and finances in order to fulfill their unique call to ministry in the Kingdom of God.

CP: I love Her Call Ministries logo. It was interesting to read what it represents. The 5-diamond logo represents the standard of excellence with which you aspire to achieve in everything you do to serve and partner with other women. Who do you imagine is your ideal client?

LRB: I love partnering with leaders who want to bring transformation to their organizations/ministries. I believe I am a challenger to those who may be stuck in an old paradigm and need change. I love exposing leaders to new possibilities and collaborating to implement processes that engage people to use their gifts in creative and productive ways. Therefore, my ideal client is anyone interested in integrating spirituality in their business culture or ministries looking to enhance team performance to impact more lives for the Kingdom of God.

CP: If given the opportunity to speak with one of the most influential women past or present, who would it be and what would you ask her?

LRB: This is a difficult question because there are several women who could speak to different aspects of my life and no individual woman I know of that can speak to the whole. As of today, I can say Mary, the mother of Jesus, simply because she was closest to the one person who has had the greatest impact on the world. I think I'd like to know about the things Scripture does not tell us and ask her to clarify what we think we know about her first born child. She witnessed many things and pondered them in her heart. That's the information I'd like to know. How did she survive seeing her child tortured? What was it like learning that his body was no longer in the tomb? Yes, Mary is the woman I would like to talk with right now but if you ask me next month that may change.

CP: What one book, written by a woman, do you wish you'd written yourself? Why?

LRB: The first great book I recall reading that impacted me was "Hinds Feet on High Places" by Hannah Hurnard. It is a classic devotional and as much as I loved reading it I can't say that I wish I had written it. God has given me grace to be very please with the gifts HE placed in others but I don't wish for what they have. Instead, I am driven to seek God so that my gifts are matured and manifested for His glory. So the books I have written (and still work on completing) are the only ones I "wish" for myself.

CP: What was your journey to get where you are today? Any advice you can give to younger women?

LRB: I feel as though I was thrust into ministry from the time I was in high school participating in the Bible club to this very day. I am grateful that my college years are loaded with tremendous spiritual growth and ministry activity which helped to shape my life. I heard the call to preaching ministry in graduate school and God blessed me to attend seminary so I could have a good start in the world of church work as a young woman. When my time of transition came into more independent and international ministry it was through a series of challenging, yet ordained circumstances. My path has been an adventure with God that continues to keep me in awe of His grace and faithfulness. I don't think I have reached the full measure of my potential or the next plateau of productivity by any means. Steadfast service in the calling on my life and faith that God orders my steps keeps me busy.

Younger women should invest as much time, prayer and energy as possible into knowing God's voice and will for their lives. Every dream will not come to fruition immediately. Some plans will be changed and others will only be revealed in hind-sight. Nothing can replace a noble character and a spirit of excellence so never take a short-cut or minimize the value of integrity.

CP: Do you find it difficult to manage your time, speaking engagements, shifting focus between marketing your ministry, as well as any day-to-day responsibilities?

LRB: Yes! However, I am only committed to doing what I believe God requires of me. Therefore, marketing and day-to-day responsibilities are subject to the direction of God. I do have a planner and lists of things-to-do but all of it is prayerfully considered and totally subject to change as God leads.

CP: What's next for you? Any upcoming events in the horizon?

LRB: I am working to complete a book that should be available this Fall. HER Call Ministries is expanding so there are a few events beyond Houston we will host to get more women connected with our mission. We are also prayerfully planning and extremely excited about our 5th year celebration and major conference in 2012.

CP: How can we stay connected with you?

LRB: Visit my website at http://www.lekeshabarnett.com/Home_Page.html.

Thank you so much for stopping by Reverend Barnett! I’m sure everyone has enjoyed meeting you and hearing about you as much as I have. Also, I want to encourage you ladies to go to her website and find out more about Her Call Ministries.

A Powerful Interview of a Woman who Empower Others!

2011-08-26T11:28:00.001-05:00

This is the last day of our celebration week and we welcome my new co-laborer friend and lovely lady Michelle V. Green. Michelle and I connected on Facebook and I am very thankful to have her here today to tell us about her organization, and a little bit about herself! Please meet Michelle!

CP: Thank you so much Michelle for joining us today! Give us a brief bio of who you are?

MVG: Thank you Cynthia. I am a native of New Orleans, LA and have always been in the business of encouraging and helping family & friends reach and SURPASS their goals. My parents have always praised all that I have done all that I say I will do, so I’ve always had the Confidence to “Just Do It!” The word “can’t” was not allowed in our household. I think that alone shaped a big part of who I am today.

I attended Louisiana State University where I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering in 2003. Upon graduating I moved to Houston, TX to work at NASA as a Systems Engineer and obtained a Master’s of Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2006.

Since moving to Houston I have used that same childhood confidence and started to check off one by one the items on my “Life Goals” list that I created as a little girl. Just a few of those things included having a successful career in the Aerospace industry, obtaining a Master’s Degree, becoming a licensed Real Estate Broker, becoming a certified Personal Fitness Trainer, becoming a professional model, starting my own fitness company, 1st Choice Fitness and a few more that I am still working toward to be a 100% entrepreneur!

To much surprise I was a natural born introvert! It was through many life experiences that my extrovert tendencies started to pour out and now my well is over-flowing! I have discovered many of my life passions which include health & fitness and empowering others to be as great as they are called to be. I have too many hobbies to name but some of my favorites are traveling, star-gazing, boxing, kickboxing, rock-climbing, horseback riding, roller skating and spinning. In addition, on my journey of achieving my “Life Goals” I have met some AMAZING people and have had some very fulfilling experiences. To name a few I have met and trained several NASA astronauts; conducted health & wellness seminars during Johnson Space Center’s Safety & Total Health Day and held free workshops in my community; I have traveled the world gaining knowledge, networking and meeting fellow entrepreneurs; I’ve trained with ex-heavyweight boxer Lee Canalito for several years; and I have walked the stage with fellow models and been featured in Mirror Mirror episodes on ABC. Of course one of my most fulfilling experiences to date came with the establishment of Women Empowered (WE). It gets better every time!

Since I also am the owner of 1st Choice Fitness, several people also know me as the “Boot Camp Instructor”. My training specialties include healthy weight loss strategies; cardiovascular fitness for overall heart health, strength/balance training, new client coaching & motivation, and most importantly health & fitness education. You can check out my website www.1st-choice-fitness.com and be sure to “Like Me” on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/1stchoicefitness#!/.

CP: Wow, you are a busy lady! Can you give us a brief overview of your organization?

MVG: Women Empowered (WE) was established in July 2010. Since then, quarterly seminars are held at various venues in the Houston area to discuss a plethora of Women's Topics. These topics include, but are not limited to, Women's Social Skills, Finding Inner peace, Forgiveness, Life Transformation, Self-Improvement, Personal Growth, Spirituality, Effective Leadership skills for Women, Assertiveness skills, Increasing self-esteem, Finding the Entrepreneur in YOU, and of course Self Empowerment & Exploration.

Women’s empowerment is one of my passions. “I love seeing women who have been “sitting on the sidelines” finally give themselves permission to express their Magnificence!”

I hope you will join Women Empowered (WE) on your journey as well! https://www.facebook.com/groups/208468662525311/.

CP: Who do you imagine is your ideal client/participant?

MVG: The ideal 1st Choice Fitness client would be anyone with the willingness to want to live a healthy & fit lifestyle. As a personal trainer I provide the knowledge and the tools for anyone to be half successful but it takes the consistency and determination of the client to bring the other half.

The ideal WE participant is a woman (all ages) who is looking to either empowered or be empowered! So that would be all of us! I have had several WE participants come to a seminar “just to see” and have left more empowered than ever! WE has made many connections and formed long-lasting relationships. WE has encouraged women to start their own businesses, apply to law school, and to start their own “Sister Circles”.

CP: If given the opportunity to speak with one of the most influential women past or present, who would it be and what would you ask her?

MVG: It would definitely be Ernestine Shepherd! At the age 74 she holds the Guinness World Record for the Oldest Female Body Builder and is in better shape than most people, decades her junior. Like me she is a certified personal trainer and spends her days running, lifting weights and working out. She is a role model not just for senior women everywhere, but for every one of us. As a fan of hers I know her story of what motivated her journey. If I met her I would ask her if she still does it for her sister (her original motivation) or if her sister is now all of the other women that she encourages and inspires on a daily basis. I’m pretty sure I know that answer but from one female personal trainer to another that would be a great conversation to have!

CP: What one book, written by a woman, do you wish you'd written yourself? Why?

MVG:
Truthfully, I do plenty of reading. However, I have not actually had much time to actually read an entire book these days. I’m still waiting on my next 9 hour flight to get the time to read a book written by a friend of mine, “Running from Solace” by Nakia Laushaul. I can’t wait! You can also check her out at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nakia-R-Laushaul-presents-The-Truth-As-I-See-It-In-Poetry-Prose/346645442878?ref=ts

CP: What was your journey to get where you are today? Any advice you can give to a younger woman?

MVG: My journey to where I am today all really began with my ministry of health and fitness in being a personal trainer. I meet all types of women/men who are often seeking to be fit but not necessarily healthy. Of course, it’s my job to provide you with the tools and knowledge to understand that you need both! So as I taught these lessons I began to take it a step further. To be able to complete the walk the Lord has outlined for you much is required – a healthy mind, body, and spirit! We also consider health as a basic and dynamic force in our daily lives, influenced by our circumstances, beliefs, culture and social, economic and physical environments. In order for me to be able to encourage others I must encourage myself and constantly seek the tools and knowledge to walk the talk! Hosting WE Seminars allow me to do just that by bringing other like-minded women together to empower each other on topics that aid in having a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

Advice I always give to younger women is to find a mentor. It can be your mom, grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin, or someone that just exudes the qualities you’d like to have! You can have a mentor for every aspect of your life (school, work, fitness, personal matters, etc.) and know that you can have a mentor at 10 and still have one at 90. A good piece of advice I once received was to encourage someone else because it may come back around to you just when you need it!

CP: Michelle, you are a busy woman. Do you find it difficult to manage your time, speaking engagements, shifting focus between marketing your ministry, as well as any day-to-day responsibilities?

MVG: Yes and no. Although I work full-time, train part-time, and host quarterly WE seminars I am very good at planning and being Ms. Organized! Therefore, my planner stays full with clients, networking and marketing events but if I write it down I must check it off. The good thing is that I have a great support system. My husband supports all of my endeavors (as I do his) and is always willing to lend a hand or help. As women we have a natural tendency to “do it all” and not ask for help or say “yes” when help is offered. Through some of the lessons learned and great mentors I have had in recent years I have learned to let go once in awhile. That being said I usually know when I’m at that tipping point and need a break. If not, my husband is definitely aware of when we “need a vacation”.

In addition, I have a great network of women that always help me pull off the WE Seminars. They do a number of things from speaking at some of the seminars to helping me arrange locations, speakers, donating door prizes, snacks and of course spread the WE word! Special thanks to Nakia Laushaul, Sophia Flot-Warner, Alexa Jones, Reba Charleston, Ingrid Walker, Angel’a Jones, Andrea Cojoe, Adria Carter, Lillian Johnson, Cheryl D. Jones & Nina James.

CP: Michelle tell us, what's next for you? Any upcoming events for your ministry?

MVG: The next thing up for WE is to continue to get bigger and better while reaching more women to become involved in the journey of empowerment.

The next WE Seminar will be held on November 5, 2011. Join the Women Empowered (WE) Group on Facebook to keep up with all of the latest and for more information.

Thank you so much for stopping by today Michelle! I’m sure everyone has enjoyed meeting you and hearing about you and your endeavors as much as I have. God bless you my dear!

WE Rock Week! A Woman of Wisdom Min. Esther "Renee" Daniels

2011-08-24T22:41:00.000-05:00

It has been an awesome empowerment week. We have had some amazing women. Now I want to introduce a wonderful woman of wisdom. She is a very good friend of mine who I have grown to admire much -- Minister Esther "Renee" Daniels.

CP: Give us a brief bio of who you are?

ERD: I am a native of Beaumont, Texas and married to my soul mate Andre’ Daniels reside in Houston, Texas. Renee’, as most of my friends call me, is always on a mission to spread God’s word. I am a chemical dependency counselor and life coach. I am Founder of Titus Works, Ministries.This ministry is to spread the word freely to ages 25 and up. Titus based on the Word of God in Titus chapter 2, teaches the old shall be there to guide the young into a better life with Christ. This ministry strives to do this in a unique way through telephone conferences with powerful speakers and topics is keeping it real with people and God.

CP: Can you give us a brief overview of your organization/ministry?

ERD: Titus Works, Ministries.This ministry is to spread the word freely to ages 25 and up. Titus based on the Word of God in Titus chapter 2, teaches the old shall be there to guide the young into a better life with Christ. This ministry strives to do this in a unique way through telephone conferences with powerful speakers and topics is keeping it real with people and God.

CP: Who do you imagine is your ideal client?

ERD: I imagine that my ideal client is anyone who has a need; I am so willing to be of service in whatever capacity I can. What usually happens is God will bring people on my path that needs what I have. What I have is the experiences of my life that God has brought me through and it is all used for his good! People are always looking for an answer, for their truth and God has blessed me to have the courage to share the blessings of God to bring hope!

CP: If given the opportunity to speak with one of the most influential women past or present, who would it be and what would you ask her?

ERD: Wow that’s a good question. . . although there are many influential women in this world that I respect and appreciate, I don’t really have a person in mind that I have a question for. I am a person who has for a big portion of my life lived by imitating what I saw or what I was told my life should look like. As a result of not knowing who I was, therefore at this time in my life I am trying to stay focus on what it is God has for me to do. He places the people on my path that I need a particular type of guidance at that particular time.

CP: What one book, written by a woman, do you wish you'd written yourself? Why?

I wish I had written the book “Transforming for a Purpose, Fulfilling God’s Mission as Daughters of the King” written by Anita Carman. The reason I say this book is because I am watching my life be transformed right before my eyes, and it is so amazing. One of the things she says that touched me so was, “Imagine the freedom of finding your compass in an unchanging God and arriving at a place where no human or event can rob you of your purpose.” She also says, “We are not hired help, we are daughters of the King, and He wants us to see with His eyes, feel with His heart, and leave this earth changed with His fingerprints.” This is my desire to live a purpose filled life that when it is all said and done the fingerprints of God will be over all that was on my journey.

CP: What was your journey to get where you are today? Any advice you can give to a younger woman?

ERD: Through my life I have experienced many things, some of which I am very proud of and some of which I am not so proud of. But as my friend Elder Patterson would say, all of it had to happen! I have come from a very lonely childhood low self-esteem, drug addiction, a failed marriage and many many disappointments. But GOD! I have been given the opportunity to experience God’s amazing grace and mercy. . .recovery of 23 years from that drug addiction, in a marriage filled with great love of 14 years, and still some disappointments but knowing that God knows what is best for me. As for the self-esteem well it is a whole lot better but still being worked out. My journey has been about progression even when it sometimes did not feel like it. I am so grateful that God’s thoughts are not like my thoughts, because if they were so much of my journey would not have taken place.

I would say to a younger woman, NEVER ABSOLUTELY NEVER allow yourself to settle in any area of your life, but more than that always seek what God would have you to do. When those days come that you are confused about the answers you seek, I pray that you have a mentor in your life that you can rely on to walk with you through life. I really believe that none of us have to walk out our lives alone. That if we allow it God will bless us with that Titus friend we all need. Find your Titus friend, it will bless your life!!!

CP: Do you find it difficult to manage your time, speaking engagements, shifting focus between marketing your organization/ ministry, as well as any day-to-day responsibilities?

ERD: I do find it challenging to manage my time between ministry and my day to day responsibilities to some extent. But, for the most part I have to remember to keep priority in the forefront when planning. I have to learn how to say no when I need to say no. One of my Titus friends says to me all the time, “Renee’ you can’t be at everything and everything is not meant for you” So, I truly look at my calendar and decide what I can do and can’t.

CP: What's next for you? Any upcoming events for your organization?

ERD: At this time Titus Works is getting ready for the upcoming calls for September which are going to be a true blessing. On September 1st our guest will be Dr. Carolyn Miller discussing “What's ailing you. . .that old beliefs are keeping you from GETTING GOOD AT LIFE! Getting help to deal with life issues is not taboo!! Then on September 15th Dr. Conte Terrell will discuss, Do you know what friendship is . . . FOR REAL! Would you recognize it when it shows up? We are also in the planning stages of a Mentor~Mentee Brunch, it’s purpose is to help those who may have a desire to be involved in mentorship whether that is by being a mentor or receiving mentorship. I have also been invited to be a guest on, The Beautiful Butterfly blog talk show to discuss mental health issues around substance abuse in her Mind Body and Soul Series. I look forward to other assignments that God will place on my path of this purpose filled life!

Bless you my friend for interviewing. We cannot wait for your call and upcoming events. That concludes our interview today with my friend and co-laborer Renee.

WE Rock - Author Interview with Terri D.

2011-08-21T11:28:00.008-05:00

This whole month has been a month of celebration. I call it WE Rock! WE Rock means Women Empowered to Rock. For the entire month we have been celebrating the victory of August 26, 1920, the 19th Amendment became law, and women could vote. In honor of this celebration, I am giving away two of my books "It Had to Happen" the contest details are in my blog. To continue this celebration, I will be introducing to you some amazing women. These women are authors, entrepreneurs, educators, and trailblazers who are making a difference.

So I would like to introduce my first guest Terri Coleman Washington, her pen name Author Terri D. I loved the book and hope you enjoy.

CP: Thank you so much for agreeing to do this interview. Give us a brief bio of who you are?

Author Terri D.:I am a long-term transplant resident of Harrisburg, PA. I am single mother of three who has written poetry and short stories all of my life. My children have always been my inspiration to push to get to the next level. I write as a way to express myself and to document my inner most feelings. I have published my debut novel titled Yesterday’s Lies earlier this year.

CP: Can you give us a brief overview of your latest book?

Author Terri D.:Yesterday’s Lies is a poignant tale of a circle of close friends who lives are more intertwined than they realize; that is until the blurred lines of love, lust and friendship begins to reveal the half-truths and lies that exist. Will the secrets they all hold from the past ruin their friendships and lives forever?

Toni and Jada have been friends since High School. They dated best friends David and Benjamin and the foursome even decided to attend the same college together. A tragic event in the final semester of senior year starts the web of lies and deceit that will follow them into their adult lives. The story begins seven years after graduation from college. The secrets and lies from their past start to unravel when an old friend returns from a seven year hiatus. Where has he been? Does he hold the key to unlock the secrets and lies from their past? Others in this small group of friends have their own secrets they have been keeping. When the truth is revealed will, the life changing decisions that were made based on what everyone thought they knew be enough to rip friendships apart.

Things are seldom, as they seem. High school sweethearts Jada and David, Jr have built a wonderful life together post college. Two beautiful children and both have successful careers. When an old friend returns to the scene the half-truths are in danger of being revealed and the consequences could be devastating for everyone involved.

Yesterday’s Lies will leave you asking yourself the questions. What secrets do you keep from the one you share everything with? How far would you go to protect your friends? Could your friendship survive this type of deception? Can a true love survive the deception and lies?

CP: Who do you imagine is your ideal reader?

Author Terri D.: Any woman who has a close female friend from childhood she confides in or any woman who has ever lost a love.

CP: What authors most inspire you?

Author Terri D.: E Lynn Harris is one of my favorites. So sad he is gone.

CP: Did you try the traditional route to publishing, i.e. querying agents/publishers, or did you jump right into self-publication?

Author Terri D.: I did not go the traditional route as I was being mentored by a self published author so I did what she had done.

CP: What was your journey as a writer?

Author Terri D.: I always kept journals and dabbled in poetry but did not set out to write a novel. That just kind of happened. I had an idea and starting writing and before I knew it I had a novel.

CP: Any advice you can give to new writers?

Author Terri D.: My advice would be to do a lot of research about the industry and sit down and come up with a marketing plan before you get your book published.

CP: Where have you put your work on sale?

Author Terri D.: My book is currently available on all of the major sites like Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Books a million. I have also been working with several independent book stores to have them carry my book.

CP: Is it available in only print, or is there a digital format available?

Author Terri D.: It is also available as an eBook on Amazon and on Smashwords.com

CP: Do you find it difficult to manage your time, speaking engagements, shifting focus between marketing your current book and writing your next book, as well as any day-to-day responsibilities?

Author Terri D.:I had spread myself a little too thin at the beginning of the summer. I made it through all of those events and signings and am taking a brief break before I get started again in the fall.

CP: What's next for you? Any new books in the works?

Author Terri D.: I am currently working on my second novel which happens to be a sequel.

CP: How can we contact you?

Author Terri D.: Yesterday's Lies is the title of my novel.
www.AuthorTerriD.com

They can also follow me on:
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/AuthorTerriD

This is the end of the interview with Author Terri D. I hope you enjoyed the interview with this amazing woman. Pick up her book. You will really be inspired.

BOOK REVIEW: It Had to Happen

2011-08-07T17:02:00.003-05:00

By Cherie Hill
http://cheriehillblog.blogspot.com/

REVIEW
If the first few sample pages aren't enough to convince you that you need to read this book, then let me elaborate a little to assure you that this is a message you need. Cynthia Patterson not only has a heart for the Lord, she has a heart for the wounded, brokenhearted, and lost. Her only desire is to serve the Lord, by reaching out to a world of women who are desperate for Him.

"It Had to Happen" is written for women in an effort to speak a profound message to each of them individually through the understanding of "The Unclean Woman." (the story told in the Biblical books of Matthew and Mark) Cynthia dissects the story, in order to show the reader how this event speaks volumes into their own lives. Through each page you will begin to feel your faith rise and God's grace take hold of you as you grasp the fact that God wants to do a miracle in your life no matter who you are, where you've been, or what you've done. God waits for you to come to Him.

Cynthia truly writes with passion as she longs to lead you to Jesus, so that you might "touch His garment" and be healed. I nearly read this book in one sitting because I just simply couldn't put it down. Few books are like that. "It Had to Happen" will deepen your faith and strengthen your walk with the Lord. Don't miss this message!

Your Answer Awaits

2011-08-06T09:51:00.003-05:00

Have you ever asked yourself why?

Why am I having sleepless nights? Why am I still dealing with this hurt, rather than escaping from it? Why do I keep going in and out of so many dysfunctional relationships? Why is everyone coming to you for the answers and you can’t even figure out your own?

In her debut book, It Had to Happen, Cynthia inspires the reader of God’s providence in the midst of trials what only serve as the launching pad to triumph. She masterfully uses The Woman with the Issue of Blood to take us beyond the surface of the biblical story we've heard and read so many times by interjecting us into the passage in a personal way. Our own struggles are interwoven in suggested parallelisms that bring this woman’s plight into the light of a modern day context. And the discovery questions at the end of each chapter cause us to reflect deeply as revelation and transformation provide soothing solutions that can only come from our loving Heavenly Father who is an ever present help and a Source of unending hope.

Cynthia clearly states in her book “those who don’t know their own history are doomed to repeat it". Your journey to living a peaceful life awaits. Read a sample of her book and purchase your copy today!

Book Review: Mission Possible

2011-08-02T13:34:00.002-05:00

Mission Possible Spiritual Covering by Deborah L. McCarragher

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Book Review: MISSION POSSIBLE – A Must Read!

By D.L. McCarragher

Will he ever change? Will things ever be the same? How do I make him understand? These maybe some questions asked by women who are on the edge of making a life changing decision when it comes to their marriage.

The Authors statement in the Preface … “When GOD “chooses” you in the midst of your marriage as a believer, you have but one mission to fulfill – that is believing for your mate’s salvation”. The question to you would be: Are you ready to accept your mission as a wife?

Mission Possible is a remarkably written book to encourage women who are on assignment to stand in the gap for their husbands. Although I am a single woman, I believe this book was a preparation in hopes of being married one day and what to expect in my role as a wife. As a single mother raising a son, I can see a difference in our relationship after reading this book. Rather you’re married or single,the “Seek and Find” questions and scriptures are good for study, prayer and application. I received great insight of who I am and what God expects of me as His daughter.

One of the her quotes that will remain with me always…”HOPE is putting FAITH “on the line” – and expecting results”! I recommend this book to any woman whose at her wit ends and about to give up on her marriage. Please don’t give up! Read this book and allow God to strengthen your faith to believe with Him all things are possible!

I absolutely loved it!

View all my reviews

A Book Review: MISSION POSSIBLE – A Must Read! By D.L. McCarragher

2011-08-02T11:53:00.000-05:00

Will he ever change? Will things ever be the same? How do I make him understand? These maybe some questions asked by women who are on the edge of making a life changing decision when it comes to their marriage.

The Authors statement in the Preface … “When GOD “chooses” you in the midst of your marriage as a believer, you have but one mission to fulfill – that is believing for your mate’s salvation”. The question to you would be: Are you ready to accept your mission as a wife?

Mission Possible is a remarkably written book to encourage women who are on assignment to stand in the gap for their husbands. Although I am a single woman, I believe this book was a preparation in hopes of being married one day and what to expect in my role as a wife. As a single mother raising a son, I see a difference in my relationship with him. Rather you’re married or single,the “Seek and Find” questions and scriptures are good for study, prayer and application. I received great insight of who I am and what God expects of me as His daughter.

One of the her quotes that will remain with me always…”HOPE is putting FAITH “on the line” – and expecting results”! I recommend this book to any woman whose at her wit ends and about to give up on her marriage. Please don’t give up! Read this book and allow God to strengthen your faith to believe with Him all things are possible!

I absolutely loved it!
5 out of 5 – Love It!

WE Rock Book Giveaway!

2011-07-31T18:22:00.013-05:00

Welcome to my very first book giveaway and I am so excited about it. I am calling it WE Rock Book Giveway! WE Rock means Women Empowered to Rock and all month we will celebrate the victory of August 26, 1920, the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution became law, and women could vote.

I have two giveaways of my book It Had to Happen. Here are the giveaway contest details:
1. Subscribe and join as a Follower here on my blog
2. Enter the contest in Goodreads

Goodreads Book Giveaway

It Had to Happen

by Cynthia A. Patterson

Giveaway ends August 31, 2011.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter to win

A New Heart and A Fresh New Start

2011-07-31T15:12:00.003-05:00

I am excited about being an Author now of my first debut book "It Had to Happen". Although I must admit, the process for writing and publishing a book are both challenging and fulfilling. I recall one day writing chapter five of the book, I hit the wrong key and the entire page was deleted. At that very moment I went into a panic, picked up my cellphone and called my son Michael to assist me. Of course, no answer! So I sent him a text message and of course, instant response. A sudden thought, why didn't you just answer your phone? I responded back with my problem. And Michael's response back was "Mom relax, just click the undo button...LOL!!!". To my surprise that is exactly what I did and the information appeared again.

Whoever created the “undo” and “redo” features are absolute genius! These features allow us to easily correct mistakes. Undo reverses the last action we performed and Redo undoes the last Undo action. Immediately, I had an "Ah Ha, snap, snap" moment! For something as simple as a click of the mouse, we can undo or redo information. We must admit in life, it has taken longer to warm up to the idea. Ezekiel 18:31 encourages us, "Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit". Carefully today, read and mediate on God’s promises so you can undo or redo a changed heart and experience a fresh new start with Him.

Stay committed to God and pray this prayer: Lord, I come to you now in the name of Your Son Jesus Christ. I confess that I have rebelled against you and I put that behind me. I thank you for a new heart and fresh new start. I choose today to follow and obey your Word. In Jesus Name…Amen!

Stay focused,

It Definitely Had to Happen!!, July 15, 2011

2011-07-27T17:46:00.002-05:00

5.0 out of 5 stars It Definitely Had to Happen!!, July 15, 2011
By Patricia Madley - Amazon
This review is from: It Had to Happen (Hardcover)

One of our biggest hurdles in life is letting go of our past. As humans we seem to want to linger in the past, especially dwelling on our times of illness, suffering, and loss. The question that repeats itself is: "Why?", "Why did this happen?", "Why now?", and "Why me?"

In the book "It Had to Happen", Cynthia Patterson assists us in moving past the "Why's", and moving forward with the understanding that our past is necessary for our future; even the rough past, maybe especially the rough past. In less than 100 pages Cynthia Patterson brings the reader to not only acknowledge the past, (the good and the rough), but to move forward from that past to the present life. A pathway that is unique to each reader.

Even when some of the author's life examples, life wounds, did not directly apply to me, Patterson's skilled prose led me to an alternative place - that was uniquely mine. I would suggest that it will be the same for any reader poised to move forward on their life's spiritual journey.

When I read a book, such as this book, which has questions at the end of each chapter, I sometimes bypass those questions - and therefore the subsequent internal work those questions imply!! Sometimes.

However, you know the phrase: "She had me at `Hello'"? Well, Cynthia had me at the very first question at the end of Chapter 1. The Journal Reflections, which repeat themselves at the end of every chapter, fit together with the questions in unique and compelling ways. Cynthia calls her questions: "Discovery Questions" and they are just that.

"It Had to Happen - Understanding that Everything You Go Through in Life is for God's Purpose" is fully realized step by step, leading the reader to the revelation that everything truly did have to happen - for you to journey your own unique path during this life.

For her biblical connection, the author chose a passage from The Gospel of Mark, Chapter 5 - the woman with the issue of blood. Now, do not be put off by this scripture passage, it is simply referring to a woman with some sort of health issue. Basically referring to each of us, with our everyday health and spiritual challenges, whatever they may be.

Whether you are new to a quest of self discovery and personal faith, or seeking to deepen your connection with God and self, "It Had to Happen" is an enlightening place with which to move forward. It is a book that invites the reader back time and time again, with each reading bringing you closer and closer to your inner self and ultimately to God.

"It Had to Happen" is a definite `keeper' on my personal bookshelf!

Cynthia Patterson introduced her book by stating that we would embark on a journey - that we would visit our past - and that we would see the direction of our future. And for me, it happened! "It Had to Happen"!

Running from Solace - Breathtaking!

2011-07-27T17:01:00.002-05:00

Running from Solace by Nakia R. Laushaul

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Very well written book. The author does an excellent job in bringing you into the lives of the characters. When reading I experience several emotions. The story was so real and I can relate so well. In ministering to women as well as experiencing my self, emotional and physical abuse leads to confusion and uncertainty as to who you are. It leaves emotional scars that only God can heal. Thanks so much to the author and we look forward to many more great books.

View all my reviews

You Can Have It!

2011-07-27T11:44:00.007-05:00

Remember the old expression, "You can't have your cake and eat it too." Here's another way to say it: "You can't have it both ways." It applies, for example of a time for weeks I planned for a gathering with family and friends. To my expectation, everyone brought their favorite dish, dessert, breads, drinks... We had a blast playing games, laughing, and dancing to our favorite songs. However, at the end of the night I wondered why these very people did not continue the celebration and stay to help me clean up. I thought to myself, "you can't have your cake and eat it too!"

I thought about leaving the cleanup until morning. However, my borderline OCD tendencies would not allow me (LOL). Two hours later exhausted and glad I did because the thought of waking up to the mess... NO WAY! As I settled in for the evening, I decided to read a bit and came across a refreshing word in Psalm 16:11,"You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with the eternal pleasures at your right hand."

Here's encouragement for you as it did for me. Notice the past, present, and future implications there? Turns out, sometimes you can have your cake and eat it, too! God himself promises! And He makes it possible. At some point in our past God planted our feet firmly on the "path of life", the path of true faith. We would never have found that path ourselves as we wandered through life's wilderness. God searched us out and brought us home to him.

God will continue to fill us with joy in his presence. Regardless of how we feel at any given moment, regardless of whether we happily accept facts at hand, God presence buoys our hopes, calms our anxieties, and ignites our faith.

This fills my heart to wonder. As I look back on my life, I see the sustaining power of God's presence. As I think about it today, my heart overflows. And as for His promise of future joy, I'm at a loss for words. I can have it and this presence carries on until eternity. There we'll inherit the "eternal pleasures" we can't even imagine now.

This made me smile as I shook my head of how I felt earlier and thought, "Girl go to sleep, its not that serious!"

The Perfect Getaway

2011-07-25T17:53:00.016-05:00

What's your perfect getaway? A nail salon appointment? A spa appointment? A nice morning sitting on your balcony admiring nature? A candlelight dinner for two? Or a Saturday sitting around in your pajamas, watching your favorite chic movies, while at the same time taking advantage of your only splurge day to eat whatever you want?

We all need to getaway once in awhile. We all need to take a break -- from people, work, and causes we love so much. If you doubt that or feel a twinge of guilt because of it, consider this: It's time and you are way overdue! There are times we will experience fatigue and overload that will require us to have true rest. I had a mentor tell me once "you have to put yourself on your own to-do list". This word of advice was priceless to me. I have a standard ME-day weekly appointment.

But I got to thinking about her advice and realized, one true getaway I do know like no other; is when we go to God. When we go to Him we find this true rest we need.

In the shadow of His wings, our souls live, truly and forever. In His presence there is peace, acceptance, compassion, and security.

Most spas require a reservation. Even nail and hair salons schedule appointments. But this getaway is ours for the asking whenever we need it. Even on the spur of the moment. Heavens's door stands open: "Come to me". Whether we're weary and worried or elated and energized, we can come. Need a getaway? Then run into God's arms!

A Book Review: strategically-written, encouraging and inspiring work!

2011-07-20T14:41:00.002-05:00

It Had to Happen by Cynthia A. Patterson is a strategically-written, encouraging and inspiring work!

In this book, Ms. Patterson guides the reader through a very introspective, yet necessary, self-examination to uncover and recognize issues in their lives that require God’s healing touch.

To assist the reader in this process, Ms. Patterson beautifully utilizes (as a mirror of reflection) the issues of the Biblical character known as “the woman with the issue of blood” and that of other everyday women.

Through the help of It Had to Happen, the reader takes a transformative journey to seek God’s wisdom and strength while simultaneously facing the issues in their lives and developing a personal relationship with Christ. This transformational experience draws readers to make the critical decision to surrender themselves, broken fragments, dysfunctional pasts, hurts and issues included, to God’s presence, power, perfect will and purpose for their lives.

It Had to Happen is a must-read for anyone on the journey to personal healing, those helping others heal, and those persons who are further cultivating their personal relationships with Christ!

After reading this book, you will understand why IT (the questionable things and situations in your life) had to happen for your good and for God's Glory!

Well done, Ms. Cynthia Patterson!

Felecia Artis, Founder of Generational Blessings Ministries

www.gcbetc.com

Facebook/GenerationalBlessingsNetwork and Facebook/GCB etc

1st Author Interviews: Interview with Cynthia A. Patterson Author of 'It ...

2011-07-17T16:05:00.000-05:00

1st Author Interviews: Interview with Cynthia A. Patterson Author of 'It ...: "Book Title: It Had to Happen Publisher: Heavenly Realm Publishing Company Author: Cynthia A. Patterson Genre: Non-fiction; Inspirational..."

Free Sample Read: It Had to Happen

2011-06-24T20:21:00.007-05:00

It Had to Happen is an inspiring book that will heal wounds, restore your faith and dramatically change your relationship with God. After carefully retracing your steps, you will be able to identify with the direction you are heading and begin your journey with confidence and faith. During this process, you'll learn:
• The secrets needed to pursue your purpose
• To enjoy the success of finding out who you really are
And most importantly understand that past mistakes simply, HAD TO HAPPEN!

Click on the following link for a free sample excerpt of the book. About Cynthia Patterson-fReado

Blog Hop

2011-06-18T16:40:00.003-05:00

“How many books are currently in your To-Be-Read (TBR) Pile?”
My Answer: There are so many books to be read, if I take a guess about 50 for the year. I have to get back on it. But I have been busy with my book launching, ministry, coaching and learning this new social media. Time management is key. I must to do better...Lol!

My Review - Powerful!

2011-06-18T15:50:00.004-05:00

I Had Every Excuse To Fail, But I Chose None by Sebastian K. Young

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Author does an excellent job of inviting the reader into deeply personal and moving life experiences; while offering words of wisdom and hope. Every reader will be encouraged and inspired to examine your life make no more excuses why you can't move forward and choose to be all you can be.

View all my reviews

My Review: A Must Read!

2011-06-18T15:36:00.007-05:00

The Truth As I See It: In Poetry & Prose by Nakia R. Laushaul

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Author Nakia R. Laushaul loves God, life and family. She is a strong woman and has captured this strength in her poetry book "The Truth As I See It: In Poetry & Prose". This was the first poetry book I have actually read all the way through. I must say it was well structured as a compilation and equally well packaged. One poem and I guarantee you'll be up all night.

On a personal note, it was truly a blessing to me. Especially, "The Trials of Raising a Man Excuse me. Mine is missing the manual". It definitely spoke to me and I am so glad to this day to have read at a time I needed for encouragement that everything is going to be okay. Awesome Read!

View all my reviews

Changing of Hands: Three principles in obtaining the wealth you need

2011-06-11T10:59:00.012-05:00

Are you in a place in your life where you are pulling your hair out trying to figure out how to manage your finances from day to day.If you are continually strapped financially and are sick and tired of it, God has help for you. Many, today, live on borrowed time and borrowed money. The Bible does not teach, as some propose that all debt is wicked and sinful. However, it does teach the undesirability of debt. Debt should be a last resort. God may occasionally allow it in order to teach us discipline. However, He never meant it to be a way of life.

Proverbs 13:22 says,” A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability and goodness] to his children's children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] into the hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up”. This tells us the wealth will eventually come into our hands when we are living right. God will cause the transfer of wealth to come into the hands of His sons and daughters, from the hands of sinners.

You have to stand on the authority of Jesus Christ and declare by faith that poverty must go out of your lives. Deuteronomy 8:18 is evident that “God is the one that gives the power to get wealth.” So how do we tap into this power we already have to get wealth? Quite simple, it begins with prayer. We have to pray for the power to obtain this wealth.

I believe there are three practical principles relating to this divine prosperity. If applied correctly, they will truly manifest in our lives as it relates to our money:

I. Make Money – You have to be able to make money legally. Proverbs 10:22 “The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, without painful toil for it.” You need to pray for the wisdom of God to generate unique idea that will enable you to get this wealth.

II. Manage Money – You have to have the right perspective on how to manage money. Haggai 1:5-6 says, “Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it.” In other words, there are some people, even if you give us $1M, $1K, $100, or even $10, we will mismanage it. If you are not a good steward and handle your monies incorrectly, you will go back into begging and borrowing.
III. Multiply Money – Learn how to multiply the wealth God has given you. It is not enough to make money, but you need to multiply it. Pray for discernment to make the right investments. I am reminded of Issac in Genesis 26:13, “And the man became great and gained more and more until he became very wealthy and distinguished”.

Are you ready to experience wealth? Pray and believe in faith God will manifest His power in you to get wealth and wealth will change into your hands.

Burst Open Heaven!

2011-06-10T23:20:00.004-05:00

Have you ever felt like there’s a blockage? You move forward, then you take two steps backward? There are so many problems you don’t know what to do? As a word of encouragement, this is the time to really pray. The tenacity of your prayer must be capable of causing the heavens to open for your sake. The Word says “OH, THAT You would rend the heavens and that You would come down, that the mountains might quake and flow down at Your presence”-- (Isaiah 64:1 - AMP).

Open heavens will enable us to obtain the breakthrough we need in our lives.
When the heavens open the angels of God will begin to ascend and descend bringing multiple blessings for each of us. These blessings include: favor, power, promotion, breakthrough, finances, good health, joy, peace, etc.

One of the curses in Deuteronomy 28:23 (AMP) says, “The heavens over your head shall be brass and the earth under you shall be iron.” This shows that it is possible for our heaven to be closed. So we have to become strategic in prayer to get back what is due to us by busting open heaven.

When your heaven become brass, your angels cannot reach you, Daniel fasted for 21 days. When his angel of blessing came he said: “Then he said to me, Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your mind and heart to understand and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come as a consequence of [and in response to] your words.” (Daniel 10:12-AMP) The heavens were closed because of satanic obstacles. However, Daniel faithfully continued praying until his answer came.

Likewise, we need to continue praying; prayer is the key that turns God’s promises into reality. Now is not the time to give up and get weary. On the contrary, this is the time to gear up. “God will rend the heavens”, the angels of God will begin to ascend and descend upon your life” (John 1:15 – NLT).

Nothing is Impossible

2011-05-03T13:06:00.004-05:00

For a few weeks a message has been in my spirit. I have been ministering it to others with dramatic changes coming to pass in their lives as a result. This message will have a powerful influence upon your life-- if you will allow it to minister to your spirit.

Luke 1:37 says, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." I want to encourage you not confess your negatives. Confess the accomplishment of that which appears to be impossible. Confess that you are a success. Confess that you like people and people like you. Confess that you are flowing in God's love, and that other people are being blessed through your life. Confess that you are releasing God's miracle power, and that others are receiving healings, both in mind and body through your words.

Nothing is impossible with God. He is in you waiting to be released through your positive faith. Matthew 17:20 "If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed...nothing shall be impossible with you." Get all excited! God is in you! His faith is in you! You can do things you never dreamed possible!

I invite you to join me the month of May to speak positive faith confessions to yourself, your family and your friends. Expect the impossible to flow like never before.

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It's Time for Spring Cleaning!

2011-04-06T19:18:00.005-05:00

I am sitting at my dining table right now and I thought to myself I need to do some Spring cleaning. But, what does Spring cleaning really mean? Does it mean we have to clean up around the outside of our houses? Use vinegar on the windows? Beat the carpets? Organize our drawers and closets? Or is it that desire to air out our homes and hang our linens on the clothesline for that crisp clean smell? I guess it means something different to each of us.

Suddenly, I had an “Aha” moment! I was reminded we are in the middle of Lent season. This should be a time of fasting, self-denial, Christian growth, repentance, conversion, and simplicity. It is a time for taking spiritual inventory and then cleaning out those things which hinder our personal relationships with Jesus Christ and our service to Him.

John Ortberg in his well written book entitled, The Me I Want to Be writes, “I must pray what is in me, not what I wish were in me”. We have to come to the realization that there is a problem, but we refuse to let the problem get the best of us. See, admission is the key to our deliverance. The act of telling God how we truly feel is an act of liberation which activates the healing power of God. In turn, Jesus will recognize our saving faith and gift us with total healing — in body, mind and spirit. Like the man blind from birth who came to Jesus for healing and found both healing and redemption, (John 9:2-25) we will find all that our hearts desire — is in Jesus.

I encourage you to take this time and reflect on your own life journey: where you are and where you want to be. I encourage you to take a personal fast and journalize your personal reflections. This season offers an opportunity for us to change and better our relationship with Jesus. Remember: Spring cleaning doesn't have to be completed in one day or weekend. Make your list. Prioritize the tasks. Then celebrate the success of a fresh new YOU!

It Had To Happen Book Trailer

2011-03-14T15:52:00.000-05:00

It Had To Happen Book Trailer

Who Do You Think You Are?

2011-03-11T12:33:00.005-06:00

In reviewing where you are right now emotionally, what kind of person do you think you are? I don’t know if you were anything like me but all my life people tried to tell me who I was and what my motivations were. Along the way of pleasing everybody, I pretty much forgot who I was and became lost. I was on this roller-coaster ride that was never ending. I started looking to men to fill this emptiness. I started looking at the bottom of a shot glass and at drugs. Those afflictions numbed me for a little while but they did not bring me any peace of mind. The journey to recovery was a very long stretch for me.

The fact is I was walking around like a shadow of my former self, only realizing a fraction of my potential, and lacking that one defining element that will allow me to lead a productive life: Wholeness. When I talk about being whole, while it may mean different things to different people, there are certain essential qualities, certain near absolute truths that are associated with this condition I call wholeness. The essential elements of wholeness are as follows:

• Acceptance of My Personal Self Worth

• Acceptance of My Limitations

Acceptance of My Personal Self Worth

I often would ask myself: do I like myself? In order to be whole, I had to be able to like me. I had to come to the realization that I was not defined by my mistakes. Many years ago, I recall a conversation I had with a mentor. It was at time I kind of knew I had great potential, was level-headed, yet still somewhat naive. But this particular occasion, I was at breaking point in my life and needed someone to talk to. I had talked myself into thinking I was worthless, and for eight months in a relationship that had gotten me off track in my walk with God. I was angry at God because of a hurtful situation I had endured, and I blamed God for the way things turned out. This was a seemingly dark time in my life, and I adopted a rebellious lifestyle that resulted in me becoming pregnant.

During our conversation, I told my mentor I wished I could go back and change things, but I knew I could not. I asked God to forgive me, and as tears rolled down my face, I said, “I know He does, yet I cannot forgive myself." You see, I had an abortion after I became pregnant, and the guilt weighed heavily on my soul for years. I was so far from God at the time that I did not realize what I was doing was wrong. It became difficult for me to accept God’s forgiveness, because I was listening to the voice of the enemy rather than the voice of God. Even though the Holy Spirit was still trying to speak to me, I was so far gone, I chose not to listen. In my mind, it was easier for someone new to come to Christ than someone who was already a Christian and who had turned away from God. So the question I asked her, how can I forgive myself?

I don’t think I was alone in my struggle to forgive myself; the enemy has his ugly fingerprints all over situations like this one. The enemy knows that God forgave us the moment we asked. While he cannot do anything about that, he can keep reminding us of the sin and keep us from feeling forgiven. As long as you and I continue to feel condemned, Satan’s lies can hold us back from walking in the freedom God has so graciously given. I was encouraged to embrace God’s promise of forgiveness through this powerful scripture which contained in Romans 8:1, “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. “(NLT).

At the end of our conversation, she took out a mirror and asked me what I saw. Immediately, I began to weep even harder and turned away from the mirror. I admitted I could not look into the mirror because of the shame of what I had done. She embraced me with a long hug as I wept even more so. This moment seemed like lifetime of tears that were bottled up and someone took off the top pour the contents out. Afterwards, she let me know that God loves me so much and that He wants me to forgive myself right NOW.

Now when I look at myself in the mirror, I recognize that since God loved me at my worst, then it is okay for me to love myself, especially now that I am trying to improve myself. Rather than feel shame at what I had done, I now take pride in the fact that I survived it, and that I am trying to put as much distance as I can between me and my sinful past. Part of wholeness is embracing who I am: I don’t celebrate the bad, but I am now elevated by the fact that I survived it and have moved on.

Acceptance of My Limitations

When I realized I have value as a person, just by the mere fact that God created me and loves me, there is a temptation to begin questioning why: I know I have value to Him, but what is it about me that is worthy of His love? You see, it is at that point, my sisters, where I started looking at my talents and personal qualities in an effort to justify God’s love for me. Guess what? I was looking for a mighty long time to find justification. I had to tell myself – “look woman just accept His love and move on”.

Assessing my skills is still an essential exercise, because it helps me to acknowledge my limitations. While I know I was created in His image, I am not blessed with the same talents as other women. I had to remember how Moses told God that he was not a good speaker so he did not want to confront Pharaoh. Well, God’s answer was even more telling. He said to Moses that yes, He knew, and that He, God, would be putting the words in his mouth that Moses should speak. When Moses still rejected the idea, God said okay, I will let your brother Aaron do the talking for you.

You see, God knows that He did not create me with the same abilities as other women, and He did that for several reasons: (1) So that I would depend on them; (2) That in needing others, it would deepen my humility. (3) So that I would depend on Him. I think of this way, supposed I thought I knew everything, needed no one, and felt that I did not need to depend on God? I would be a “hot mess” all alone.

Accepting my limitations is part of accepting myself for who I am. Even though I may not have the capacity to become a doctor, lawyer or an astronaut, I love my life today. I understand that God created me because I have something unique that He needs from me to help further His Kingdom. I encourage many women as yourself to understand you are created by design. God does not call only the qualified, He qualifies all those whom He calls.

I recently went to a department store and the words of a birthday card left such an impression on me that I want to sow these words into your spirits as words of encouragement:

"Always remember, when God made you He did so with a purpose and a plan. He saw all your days before you lived one of them and placed over you the covering of His protective love. He allowed nothing to come into your life that has not first been screened through that love. His hand has remained upon you to this very day. He calls you by name. You are his beloved child…the apple of his eye…the delight of His heart. Today you are in the exact place he wants you to be, and tomorrow he will be with you as He has always been –In goodness, in kindness, in faithfulness" ~Roy Lessin

Today, I so appreciate my life and this road to recovery through the healing power of God. It is rewarding to see through this acceptance of who I am and what I am worth, I have help so many women through my testimony I come in contact with. Although my life is not perfect, but I can say today I am so happy because I serve a perfect God.

In keeping with Identity’s mission of ‘Accept, Appreciate, Achieve’ below are some questions, known as the Identity Five:

1. What have you accepted in your life that took time?
I have accepted that I cannot control how people think, their words, deed or actions. Nor can I control the outcome of my situations and circumstances. But, I can control my thoughts, words, deeds and actions. By evaluating and taking responsibility on how I respond to people and the outcome of my situations or circumstances.

2. What do you appreciate the most in your life?
I appreciate most in my life, my son, Michael Lopez. I am so proud of the young man he as become, second-year college student and fulfilling his purpose.

3. What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life?
One of my most rewarding achievements in life is one received recently. I was recognized as 2010 Most Influential Women in the Country #20 by Silken Dress Magazine. A magazine with over 54,000 readers internationally.

4. What is your not so perfect way?
I would say my not-so-perfect way would be working on technology. I recently received an IPhone and I am learning the different apps on the phone. However, I have text messaging, emails, and social medias connected with this one phone. The problem is keeping up with them all without deleting!

5. How would you complete the phrase “I Love My…”?
I love my purpose to inspire and encourage women to the reality of God's love for them.

This article was featured in Identity Magazine February 2011 Issue.

The Lord is With You!

2011-02-07T14:44:00.002-06:00

In my reading one morning, I came across a scripture for you my sisters in hopes of encouraging you this week through 2 Chronicles chapter 20 verse 17:

"You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!' Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you."

A word was given to them as an instruction to march against the invaders without fear, take up their battle positions and watch the Lord fight their battle. Likewise God is saying don't worry about anything. You don't have to justify yourself. You don't have to plea your case. You don't have to pace the floor any longer. Stop pulling out your hair. You've done all you can do. This is one you don't have to fight. As a matter of fact, you can go to sleep tonight.

As an additional confirmation through the Word of God:

Exodus 14:14 "The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."

Psalm 44:5 "Through You we will push down our enemies; Through Your name we will trample those who rise up against us."

In other words, the Lord has your situation all in control. Why? Because He is Jehovah Nissi. He is our Banner. Therefore, you already got the victory my sisters... God bless you all!

Are You Ready to Experience Something New?

2010-12-30T14:57:00.003-06:00

Your car broke down, you learned you have to take a pay cut, or even be laid off. Things are not going right. Sickness may have overtaken you, relatives died. Unemployment, disability, all the stresses of life. You barely have ends meeting now and things by your calculation are even worse the next few months.This year, you have experienced the ultimate test of faith, and have been faced with some of the worst situations. The questions are: can you make it through? Can you still believe? And does the Bible give you enough strength and scripture to go into 2011 with excitement? The answer friend is yes!

For God promises us in His word through Isaiah 43:19 For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

God is going to do a new thing. You can have a day fill with opportunities to create yourself and your results anew. Take charge of your life today and everyday moving forward. Try not to focus on the past, move on. Learn from your past, make new choices, and move one. A person living in the past is like a driver who is driving down the road starring at the rear view mirror. Sooner or later, driving in this manner will lead to catastrophe. Allow the past to serve its rightful purpose as a teacher. Your past does not determine your future.

I believe there comes times in our lives where there are circumstances we don’t understand why. If you are not happy with the results you have had in your life up until now, be grateful for those results and experiences. They are true gifts. What do you mean by gifts? God was revealing important messages to you to mature your faith in Him.

You have to stay strong and be diligent in your approach to viewing your situation now. Here’s a question, why do people continue to get what they always got? The answer to this question is quit simple: If you continue to be who you have always been, you’ll continue to have what you’ll always had. In other words, if we don’t like what we are getting, we need to look at who and what we are being.

You cannot go into 2011 with this same drama in your life. You cannot be caught up in what used to be or who you used to be. God wants to give you new blessings. But God can’t give them to you if you continue to treat the new things like the old things by holding on to what has been.

Philippians 3:13-14 says, Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. This word straining means: To pull, draw, or stretch tight: strained the sheets over the bed. In 2010, God has been stretching you. God has been preparing you. He’s been getting you ready for your blessing.

We have to learn to leave the former things where they are. It’s time to move on. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! Thank God for a mighty great year. Thank God for all he has done for you. Thank God for what He taught you this year. Thank God for walking with you. God’s word will not return void.

Join me in declaring “GOD IS DOING A NEW THING”. Declare you will receive complete restoration. Declare doors will be opened that no man can shut. Declare you will be blessed with new ideas, new strategies, new businesses, second chances, new worship, and the list is endless. Whatever your new thing is, speak it. For the word promises us, if you declare a thing and it will be established for you. Your current situation isn’t the destination, but a chance to do something new in 2011.

Cynthia A. Patterson is the author of the forthcoming book, It Had to Happen – Understanding that everything you go through in life is for God’s Purpose. A sought-after conference speaker, teacher, and powerful prayer warrior who has a passion to inspire and encourage women. Her message of faith and wholeness is raising the awareness of God’s purpose and exposing each woman to the reality of His never-ending, love, mercy, and grace. Cynthia resides in Houston, Texas with son Michael who she calls her “mighty man of valor” as he is her first ministry.

Don't Worry, Pray and Give Thanks!

2010-11-17T20:39:00.011-06:00

How many of you can agree there are passages of scriptures you come across many many times? But, there are times with the same passage it appears as though it leaps off the pages and you grab a hold of it for dear life thanking God for reminding you He got you! My dear friends this is what I call a Rhema Word. It is a seed God has planted in your soul to activate your faith to believe whatever He has promised you shall come to pass.

In light of this Thanksgiving season, I wanted to offer a word encourage to you through Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

It's good to never worry about anything! It seems impossible – we all have worries on the job, in our homes, at school. But Paul’s advice is to turn your worries into prayers. Do you want to worry less? Then pray more! See whenever you start to worry, stop and pray.

Jesus said in John 14:27 (NLT),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. Jesus said He will give us that peace if we are willing to accept it from Him. Therefore, enjoy your family and friends this Thanksgiving you deserve it!

Cynthia A. Patterson is the author of the forthcoming book, It Had to Happen – Understanding that everything you go through in life is for God’s Purpose. A sought-after conference speaker, teacher, and powerful prayer warrior who has a passion to inspire and encourage women. She is dedicated and sold out for the cause of teaching young adult women their significant purpose and worth is found in Christ alone. Her message of faith and wholeness is raising the awareness of God’s purpose and exposing each woman to the reality of His never-ending, love, mercy, and grace. Cynthia lives in Houston, Texas with son Michael who she calls her “mighty man of valor” as he is her first ministry.

Create a Plan Providentially

2010-11-16T15:14:00.005-06:00

For most of us organization is very important. We plan everything. We plan where we will go to school, what we will study, and our future occupation. We must understand, however planning is not merely a matter of following the principles in some book, but recognizing our God has something to say about our plans. When you plan, you must biblically think about what you are doing. Will what I am doing bring Glory to God? Will my endeavors make me a better follower of Christ? When you can answer yes to these questions, only then can you plan with an attitude that God is pleased with. Your hardest work and best plans won’t please Him or garner success unless they are sanctified by Him. Proverbs 16:3-4, 9, is the perfect guide for ANY planning session, whether spiritual or otherwise: “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. The LORD works out everything for his own ends, even the wicked for a day of disaster. In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.”

I would like to encourage you to know the decision to change must be accompanied by changed behavior. Just as you cannot be a reformed burglar if you are still stealing, likewise you cannot be a child of the King unless you are living as though you are one of His chosen. The way you live, whether you are upholding God’s precepts or not, have serious implications for the success of any of your endeavors. If you are not living right, you should not be asking why you are not experiencing success in your endeavors. Proverbs 12:5 says, “The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.” No matter how you twist and change this verse, we all have to admit one honest to God truth: If you are not living righteously, DO NOT expect God to bless your efforts. Our God is a loving God, not blind or foolish.

Jay E. Adams says “Your life is short, your life is unpredictable, your life is feeble, and your life is entirely in God’s hand.” I truly believe this to be the case. We must come into the realization we are no longer going to live in the same state of despair anymore and put a plan together to make something happen. Viktor Frankl put it best: “Those who have a why to live, can bear with almost any how.” How we plan deliverance is the answer to becoming whole again.

Cynthia A. Patterson is the author of the forthcoming book, It Had to Happen – Understanding that everything you go through in life is for God’s Purpose. A sought-after conference speaker, teacher, and powerful prayer warrior who has a passion to inspire and encourage women. She is dedicated and sold out for the cause of teaching young adult women their significant purpose and worth is found in Christ alone. Her message of faith and wholeness is raising the awareness of God’s purpose and exposing each woman to the reality of His never-ending, love, mercy, and grace. Cynthia lives in Houston, Texas with son Michael who she calls her “mighty man of valor” as he is her first ministry

No Is Not An Option!

2010-11-10T13:53:00.018-06:00

For the past few weeks I have noticed on the local and national news, story after story and number after number shocking disparities in women lives. These messages have been clear and consistent that some women have become discouraged and frustrated. They are giving up on looking for jobs. They are giving up on their marriages. They are giving up on church. They have even given up on life.

What I’ve discovered so far is that there are a lot of broken women. Women who are broken physically, mentally and financially. They can’t see past where they are and have lost hope on what’s ahead. They have lost the zeal of experiencing what we’ve heard so often called “The American” dream. I mean from the best neighborhoods to worst across America, everyone is experiencing the turbulence of troubled times causing us to say no I just give up. I quit.

I believe positioning yourself for purpose is predicated on your next decision. In the book of Ruth, we can see an example of this type of determination through two devoted friends Ruth and Naomi. I am encouraged through Ruth because here we have a young woman who was a princess. She is the great grand-daughter of King Eglon of Moab. She was married to Mahlon who later died and now she is a young widow. She is faced with a situation that is hopeless. She has no husband, no money and no means to take care of herself.

I don’t know if you are aware of this. But in those days widows had no standing in the community and were totally dependent upon the good will of their families and friends for survival. It was the duty of the Priests to look after widows and orphans, but there was no such provision in Moab; because there was famine in the land.

But something happens to change her destiny through the wisdom of her mother-in-law Naomi. In chapter 1 verses 6-7 says, One day she got herself together, she and her two daughters-in-law, to leave the country of Moab and set out for home; she had heard that God had been pleased to visit his people and give them food. And so she started out from the place she had been living, she and her two daughters-in-law with her, on the road back to the land of Judah. (Message Bible)

Sisters, feeling sorry for ourselves or continuing to wallow in our pity parties is not going to help us. Naomi’s action is what I call Decisive Faith – Faith that says, “I have to make the decision and get myself together”. She received a word God was blessing the people and decided it is time to take a step of faith towards her destiny.

This is the problem we face as women, when we have things that block our perspective on what is going on. We can be so close to God, but yet so far away. We can avoid the consequences of poor decisions by taking God’s word seriously. You may think you have been rejected, excluded, cutoff, and shutout, but, I want to encourage you that God wants to put a word down in your spirit that will enable you to get up and make a decision to begin moving toward your deliverance.

After examining her situation, Ruth refuses to take “no” as her final answer decides to leave her current state and go. She decided to go with Naomi to Bethlehem. Ruth did not allow herself to be paralyzed by her lack of a husband. She understood God’s promised provision and was willing to position herself for purpose. She understood it would take act of obedience, diligence and was able to receive the blessings of God.

Ruth was able to discern when her season was up. In chapter 1 verse 16 But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God”. She realized she was in a difficult place because there was a famine. Sisters, shift your focus. Quit looking at your situation and start anticipating your blessings. Don’t be so preoccupied with your current situation that you don’t see beyond it. For example, if you’re having problems with your job, look beyond it. If you are having difficulties in a relationship, get past it.

Or are you like Orpah? Who was so preoccupied with her situation she could not discern the blessings ahead. Orpah made a decision to turn and go back. Orpah was a woman full of unbelief and empty of wisdom. She made a mistake on making a now decision on a then experience. She was limiting her future to her past. She had more faith in her lack than she had in the promise. Sisters when you do that, you are limiting on what you could be based upon what you have been. Just like our sister Orpah, you become preoccupied with problems and situations, when you should be looking at opportunities.

Instead of focusing on negative, develop an attitude of expectancy. To say you were born this way and you will never change -- negative. To say this is how I am and it is what it is -- negative. To say, I don’t have enough education – negative. To say I am too fat – negative. To say I will never get married – negative. Your current situation isn’t the destination, but a chance to alter the course to get there. You have to take a stand and be bold enough to say like Ruth, “no is not an option”, I’m going all the way. I am moving forward!

Peace and blessings to you,
Cynthia A. Patterson
www.dove-ministries.org
"Author of the forthcoming book, It Had to Happen - Understanding that everything you go through in life is for God's Purpose."

Are You Running On Empty?

2010-10-19T11:10:00.006-05:00

You know how it feels. At the beginning of this year you were on fire and claiming the blessings of the Lord. You felt like this year was going to be your year! Now your life seems to be going in a gazillion different directions. Truthfully, behind that smile, you’re feeling drained and defeated. Even the fire of your relationship with God, that once burned so brightly, now seems to be barely flickering.

In looking at Psalm 6, we find David. Physically, he is wasting away. He’s been running from enemies too long, and he’s exhausted. Spiritually, he’s dismayed and thinking God has forgotten him. Emotionally, he’s depressed and feeling ready to give up. David is running on empty and he is transparent to God. David says, in verses 2-3, 6:

2 Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. 3 I am sick at heart. How long, O Lord, until you restore me? 6 I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears.

I believe there are some of us who can identify with David and I want each of you to know that you have to shift your focus from your feelings to the facts. David turned his attention to the facts to bring himself out of his depression and run down state. In verses 8-9 David tells the enemy of his mind:

8 Go away, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my weeping. 9 The Lord has heard my plea; the Lord will answer my prayer.

King David got his focus back. It wasn’t about his feelings. It was about the God who was going to take care of him. David may have felt like God had forgotten about him, but the fact is, God knew his case. He may have felt God wasn’t listening to him, but the fact is, the God of his heart heard his cry. So what about you? Are you focused on your feelings or are you focused on the facts?

I’m reminded of a time I too was running on empty. I came to realize it one morning in an “Aha” moment of my life. I woke up late this particular morning. It seemed as if everything that could go wrong, did. I got my hair wet in the shower and couldn’t find my keys to only realize they were in my jacket pocket. To make matters worse I get in the car and was nearly out of gas.

While attempting to pump the gas, I noticed the nozzle did not fit in my tank. In my rush, I was attempting to use diesel fuel in my unleaded tank. God spoke to me through this situation.

Many times we are so busy that we lose sight and focus on the wrong things. We start trying to use other things to refuel ourselves and it doesn’t fit into the plans that God has for us. God says it is time to Re-ignite the Flame! Therefore, when our passion for God wanes and the flame that once burned brightly begins to flicker, Jesus is the one who can and will ignite it.

How can we put ourselves back into the position where He can re-ignite the flames in our hearts? 1) We must pray, 2) We must read the word, and 3) We must believe. Staying in the will of God can constantly infuse His energy in us. God is the only one who can refuel you. God will continue to instill in your passion for Himself, a purpose in life, and a zeal for living so that you can never again feel you’re running on empty…Peace be with you!

What's the Problem?

2010-08-28T20:27:00.004-05:00

“Responsibility is my response to God’s ability”~ Albert J. Lown

Here's a question to answer: what issues have you been dealing with that have drained you emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually, and have isolated you from those whom you depend on for love and affection? I know this to be the case because we all have issues we deal with that cause us to be in search for healing, and for those of us who know God, it is ultimately a search for Jesus Christ. We come to a place where we have been repeating a cycle that causes us to want to give up on life. These issues have taken us to a point where we have exhausted all of our money, time and efforts in seeking a solution, only to find that what we thought was a solution was merely a temporary fix to our real problem.

For years, we have been treating these symptoms of our suffering instead of attacking the root cause of our spiritual ailment: our lack of a relationship with God. Without him in our lives, anxiety, self-doubt, and insecurity take up permanent residence in our lives. These symptoms grow worse over time and eventually manifest themselves in fractured relationships, uncontrolled anger, personal isolation and addiction. Left unchecked, these newly manifested conditions, especially in the case of addiction, may cause us to seek refuge in drugs or sinful behavior. Suddenly the very thing we thought would help ease the pain of our suffering winds up taking us even further away from God.

Self-doubt leads to depression, which leads to addiction, which leads to more self-doubt, a vicious cycle that has only numbed us to how we are really feeling. Secular wisdom in the form of pop culture, reality TV, self help books, etc., only offer to treat symptoms to make you feel better temporarily -- the world's way doesn't address the root problem. Jesus, our Great Physician, knows that only when the core issue is addressed can there be true healing. We receive the root healing from Christ when we are born again.

Virginia Lively, in her book, Healing the Hurt in Your Heart – The Guiding Post Treasury of Hope, makes the following statement: “When we get down to the underlying problem, time after time, it was not medical, nor even, at its deepest, psychological. The real trouble was spiritual. And it was precisely the same problem…These people had trouble loving God.” (Lively, 1976)

I truly believe our true need is a healing of harmful memories and experiences. I recall of a time in my life when I was living a promiscuous lifestyle, indulging in drugs and alcohol while giving in to my lustful desires. I was living a double life, working in Corporate America by day and performing in an elaborate Gentlemen’s Club by night. While this lifestyle was very gratifying, it turned out that I chose to live like this as a way to suppress the feelings of guilt, shame, abandonment, and humiliation that I had acquired from all my negative experiences. So for years, I was pursuing something that only fixed these issues temporarily by satisfying a desire for a momentary high or rush. It was only a place where I could lose myself and be someone else. This Oscar performance was extraordinary and I knew all the lines.

Lost with no hope at all, I decided to go on a search for something to fill this emptiness. This search caused me many years of being in dysfunctional relationships with different men. In ministering to women as well as dealing with it myself, I have discovered a disturbing trend that affects the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of many women in society: The lack of love from a father who said he would be there and never showed up.

In Sarah Zacharias Davis’ book, Transparent, I am reminded of the character Rachel. Rachel said, “There is no disputing the special relationship between fathers and daughters, though often greater attention is given between father and son. But fatherly affection, telling a daughter she is beautiful and creating a standard for how she should be treated, is important. I believe a daughter’s relationship with her father leaves her either walking with a limp or brandishing a hidden power the rest of her life.” (Davis, 2007) For most of us this is a real issue. Without the love from our earthly father it has been difficult for us to trust our heavenly Father. Consider this: Ephesians describes a father as the Spiritual Head of the family, so it would stand to reason that a man, a father should exemplify the godly traits that would be an example for his family. It would stand to reason, then, that the relationship between a man and his daughter will in some way mirror the relationship between God and his earthly daughters. Without a relationship with an earthly father, a woman has nothing against which she can pattern her relationship with her Heavenly Father.

Now for those of you who had a father there for you, were you spoiled by him and always got what you wanted? When you were a little girl and had problems, did your father pick you up and tell you everything was going to be okay and you believed him without question? Do you recall sitting in his lap with your head against his chest, listening to the vibration of his voice as he spoke. And when you held his hand as you walked, did it make you feel safe and secure? Your dad always made you feel special. If you had this kind of relationship with your earthly father, how do you think it would affect your relationship with your Heavenly Father? It would stand to reason that you would try to duplicate this relationship with God in some way. Your relationship with your earthly father would be used as a blueprint in forming your relationship with God.

Let me add a small caution here, however, before you fall into the trap of thinking God will try to fulfill your every desire just like your daddy did. God does not roll like that. God’s primary concern is the salvation of your soul, not the elevation of your earthly status. While he does bless some of us with wealth and status, his desire is for you to grow spiritually, to shed the trappings of sin and death and embrace the gift of salvation that he sent you through His son. Just as a sword is forged in fire to create a mighty weapon, your soul may be subjected to the spiritual fires of suffering and deprivation to rid you of the sinful habits that build a wall between you and God. What this means, my sisters, is that God does not remove the suffering when you ask him to; he removes it when you have grown. In the face of suffering, ask yourself this question: What does God want me to learn, and how does he want me to grow?

Then, there are those of us who have had a completely opposite relationship with our fathers, which has negatively affected the way we relate to God. I’m reminded of the tragic story of Tamar, The beautiful daughter of King David in 2 Samuel 13:1-22. The bible illustrates how this story unfolds, How Amnon her half-brother, was infatuated by her. Amnon followed the advice of his cousin Jonadab, who told him to pretend he had an illness, and ask his father King David to send Tamar to care for him. The innocent Tamar, being obedient to her father, came to feed whom she thought was her ill brother. Her brother raped her, robbing her of her innocence and subjecting her to a life of, insult shame and humiliation. Verse 19 says, Tamar put ashes on her head and tore the ornamented robe she was wearing. She put her hand on her head and went away, weeping aloud as she went.

In ancient times, virgin daughters of the King wore a robe that indicated their status. So when her other brother Absalom, saw her appearance and found out what had happened, he said to her, “Be quiet now, my sister; he is your brother. Don't take this thing to heart." From then on, Tamar lived in her brother Absalom's house, a desolate woman. Desolate means abandoned, depressed, lonely. Do these sound like familiar feelings that describe you?

My heart goes out to Tamar, because here you have a brother who betrayed her, and another brother who told her to keep quiet about being violated. The most horrible experience of all, however, was the fact that she was practically ignored by her powerful father, King David, who could have righted this wrong. For the bible said while King David was furious when he heard of the incident, he held no resentment against Amnon, whom he favored as his first born. If we assumed Tamar’s honor was never restored, what do you think she might have been like by the time she was forty? By then, she would have spent decades asking, where was her father when she screamed? Where was he when Amnon violated her? Was he so preoccupied with the death of His first son by Bathsheba? Was he exhausted from fighting in the war so he could not discern his son Amnon’s motives? Whatever the case, he was not there for her. He was not there to protect her.

Like Tamar many of us were convinced by the enemy we were not fit to have honor or dignity due to the abandonment and non-involvement of our earthy fathers. Before we continue our journey forward to self-discovery and healing, let us take a look backwards to see how our past has affected our lives today.

Discovery Questions

1.Read Philippians 3:12-14. Do you think your past is hindering you from enjoying God’s plan for your future?

2.Can you identify what it is that is hindering you?

3.Write down your belief statement that will encourage you when it tries to come back.

4.Pray for God to begin the process.

Reflections to Journal:
1.Lord, I recognize I have an issue and need healing in:

2.Grant me wisdom and strength to obey you in the area of:

3.You are calling me to be more complete by:

2010-08-20T10:46:00.000-05:00

It Had to Happen -- Part 2

2010-07-02T18:35:00.002-05:00

In Mark Chapter 5, we are introduced to a woman with no name. We don’t know how old she is but old enough to be a wife but not elderly. She is known for having an issue of blood. In other scriptures, she is also referred to as the hemorrhaging woman. Whether she has an issue of blood, or is hemorrhaging, she is definitely a woman with an infirmity. She is definitely a woman in need of peace to made whole.

This week God has led me to encourage everyone to pursue the Peace of God. Therefore, we will look at Isaiah 26:3-4 You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock.

In looking at this text, it lets us know that Peace is a result of trusting God. It reveals to us The author of peace is God. Yet at times we tend look to other things besides God to get it. Generally, the idea is “Would you please help me change others so I can have peace? Would you please help me change my situation so I can have peace? But, our scripture says in verse 3, You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
Therefore, If there is a lack of peace in our lives, this verse reveals as evident there is a lack of relationship with God. In order to find out where this lack is we must realize what has happened and identify the following things:
1) What I cannot control
2) What I can control
3) What am I motivated by

Meaning, we cannot control people or the outcome of situations and circumstances. But, we can control our own thoughts, desires, words and actions.
How would we do this? By evaluating and taking responsibility in our actions on how we respond to people and the outcome of our situations. For example, if you are confronted by individuals, faced with a situation or circumstance that may try to sap your peace today. Verse 4 assures us to Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock. This word Rock in Hebrew means maw-ooz a fortified place, defense, strength. Therefore the very next time you are faced with challenges, I want you, stop and ask yourself these questions:

Can I control how this person thinks? Can I control the outcome of this situation? Is my current thought, desire, words or actions line up with God? And as result will my response be motivated by my love for God above my selfish desires? Or Am I motivated by my selfish desires above my love for God?

You choose, because John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]~~Amplified Version.

Remember everything you went through...It Had to Happen!

It Had To Happen - Intro Part 1

2010-06-18T23:12:00.001-05:00

Sisters, we are living in a society, where so many of us are searching, so many of us are exploring for the answers to this thing we call life. We are in a society where many us are in search to finding out our purpose. We are changing our degree plans. We are changing our careers. We are changing our hairstyles. We are changing our styles to latest trends. We have become serial daters. One month we’re with this guy and another month with that one. And some are of us are even changing to an alternative life-style. And you know why?

As women we seek affirmation and praise. We want someone to approve of us. We hunger for protection and assurance. We strive for love and security. God has designed us to grow from babies to little girls. From little girls to young ladies. And now God wants you to blossom into a woman who is whole. Because many of us don’t realize that it is the trick of the devil to keep your purpose veiled because he knows that true purpose is engendered in God, and a woman who finds her true purpose, she will become dangerous to the devil.

We heard and quoted many scriptures. Like weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning…What the devil meant for evil, God meant it for good…And all things work together for good of them who love God and are called according to His purpose. We really want to believe that. We really want to believe our pain is passing. We really want to believe that one day our joy will be perma-nent. But wherever you are today, you’ve been asking God – Why?

Why is it you keep having sleepless nights? Why is it you’re still dealing with this escapable hurt? Why is it you keep missing the mark of being a submissive wife and love your husband? Why is it your child keeps disrespecting you? Why is it your in and out these dysfunctional relationships?

Why is it you’re constantly feeling disappointed? Why is it everyone is coming to you for the answers to their issues and you can’t even figure out your own? Why is it every night we lie in our beds when darkness comes against our mind telling us we’re nothing? If we would have done this that would not have happened. If we would have been a better this, they would not have done that. When things are so tough right now you can’t even share with your girlfriends, because you are the one who “supposed to” have it together.

The truth of the matter, we have been walking around masking and closing the door to our own mind of what we are really feeling. And everything we dream for has been shattered into pieces and we don’t have the will or desire to stoop down and pickup the pieces and put them together again. Because we are emotionally drained. Physically tired and we are in a comatose state; just going through the motions in life aimlessly.

For the next few weeks we will take this journey together and discover the answer to these questions. It is my prayer that each of you be opened to experience a life changing experience that you have been desperately trying to find. Together we will explore some issues that have influenced our emotional behavior both positively and negatively.

These blogs are for healing, restoring, and focusing on our relationship with God. We will explore the life of a woman in Mark Chapter 5 who suffered a great issue for twelve years. For twelve years it seems as if life was hopeless for her. But through a determination and perseverance she was able to receive the help she needed. It is my prayer that you will receive practical insight through the word of God on His healing power. Just like this woman in Mark Chapter 5, God is no respector a person; He will do the same for you, if you allow Him too.

Please note my sisters this blog is meant for those who are ready to read it. It’s a voluntary, personal choice for women who say, “I’m feeling you”, I know someone who needs this; or how can I help someone?” Now if this is forwarded to you by someone, continue reading it, they are sowing a seed into your life. Afterwards, pass it on to someone else and sow a seed into their lives. Paul says in the Kings James Version of 1 Corinthians 3:6, my work was to plant seed in your hearts, and another to water it, but it was God, not we, who made the garden grow in your hearts. Remember "It Had To Happen".