Command

#SpiritualSundays: The Process is Necessary

“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)

Getting to the promise land; wasn’t an easy task! The Israelites had to go through the process! Getting to the Cross; wasn’t an easy task! Jesus had to go through the process!

One thing that I love to do is break down the meaning of words; so we all can be on the same page. What does the word process mean?

Definition of process:

“a systematic series of actions directed to some end: to devise a process for homogenizing milk.
a continuous action, operation, or series of changes taking place in a definite manner: the process of decay.”

Both of these definitions give you the meaning of the word process and a visual to aid you in getting the full meaning of the word.

This allows you the ability to know that going through a process isn’t going to be easy! You won’t have that microwave effect; pop it in and in 2 minutes your popcorn kernels are complete and full of flavor! Life and the trials and tribulations you go through won’t have that effect…

The Israelites were in the wilderness for 40 years! Jesus fasted in the desert for 40 days and 40 nights; they both had to go through their own individual process! The levels of what they had to endure were different; but the outcome were similar in nature. The Israelites were attempting to get to the “Promise Land” and Jesus was on his journey to the “Cross”. Both of these encounters were necessary because it teaches us the path that they each had to take to get to their end result! Their blessing!

But guess what? They had to go through the process! Jesus’ time in the desert wasn’t as extensive has the Israelites because “He was about His Father’s business”, He had been groomed for it..(process)…Jesus didn’t come on the scene; until He was well into His 30’s; what do you think He was doing in that time? Being groomed and processed!

The Israelites had been in captivity for many, many years; they had learned behaviors that had to be unlearned! Removed and burned away! How are you held against your will, taught to bow down to foreign practices and be able to just walk into “The Promised Land” ready to walk into your God given purpose; full of blessings and favor, with old baggage? How are you going to be effective for the Kingdom of God?

So many people; including myself want(ed) the microwave (fast) effect to coming out of captivity (trials-tribulations-wilderness-darkness-etc

We want to lay down one day and wake up the next with a changed attitude, a renewed heart, a new lease on life, favor that was endless and more abundance than we can stand!

But guess what? The process is necessary to remove and discard of everything that you picked up and allowed to attach itself to you along the way!

When Jesus was crucified it was a 3 day process before He rose!! But catch this; He had to go through the process of being tempted, being in the wilderness fasting and praying, raising up His disciples and having many of them turn their backs on Him, turning water into wine, walking on water, casting out demons; I can keep going but I think you get what I’m saying!

Jesus has to do something’s! He had to be processed to be prepared to be crucified and then lifted up!! He had to go through the process to get to His finish line!! His victory dance!!

The Israelites’ process took a little longer; 40 years is a long time to be in the wilderness; but guess what? God took care of them the whole time!! He provided for them; he clothed, fed them and gave them shelter! But guess what? They complained and didn’t want to listen to His instructions! They argued with Moses and Joshua more than they listened and followed instructions!

God gave them the tools necessary to get to the “Promise Land” the keys to open up their destiny but they cried, complained and rejected the “process”..

Were they this defiant when they were in bondage? In captivity? Do you remember them saying that they were better off when they were with their oppressor?

How many of us think that our lives were better when we were living as we wanted to? When we were sinning and fornicating? Going to clubs and grinding all up on people; we didn’t even know? Stealing, cursing, doing and selling drugs, etc.. The enemy loves to hold you captive, remind you of the “good ole days” when you were “free”… How does any of those types of behaviors have you free when you’re being held captive and racking up strong holds, generational curses, and soul ties?

To rid of everything that isn’t of God! You have to go through the process of removing it and cutting it off! Will it be easy? No.. Will it be fun? No… Will you enjoy it? No.. But catch this; it’s all worth it; in the end!!!!!!

Jesus got seated at the right hand of the Father; after His process…The Israelites walked or some may have crawled into the “Promise Land”, their entourage was a little light because of their process; but they eventually got there…if they would’ve got on board sooner than later; their process could’ve been quicker!

How much longer are you going to complain? How much longer are you going to fight the process? How much longer are you going to pout and be disobedient?

Let me be the 1st one to tell you; you are holding up your process! You are holding up your blessings, your favor, your abundance; all because you want to have it your way! Guess what? You have to rid yourself of everything that you carried with you while you were in enemy territory! That baggage has to be disposed of! All those un-godly thoughts and practices you picked up while hanging out with the enemy; has to go!

How can God bless you when you’re trying to figure out ways to flip it and make it multiply? How can God bless you when you thinking of ways to sleep your way to the top? How can God bless you when you scheming to take out your competition?

Anything that is “worth” having is going to come with a process!! You want to be refined! You want to be renewed! Washed in the blood! Come out of the fire; untouched!! You have to go through the process!! The “promise land” comes with obedience, blood, sweat, tears, sacrifice and a burning off of the old man; that old woman!! Are you up for the challenge? The process? The re-awakening? This only happens when you say Yes to Our Heavenly Father..the choice is yours!! What do you choose Life or Death?

References used:

http://www.dictionary.com

http://www.biblegateway.com

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

Tamara McCarthy Enterprises

Check me out on Instagram: http://instagram.com/singlemomofpurpose and http://instagram.com/author_tamaramccarthy

Check out my podcast on https://anchor.fm/tamara06 or

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/single-mom-of-purpose/id1446968952?mt=2&uo=4 or https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy84MmM2MTM4L3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz

Check out my books on Amazon: https://bit.ly/author_tamara

And, if this is your first time on my blog let me introduce myself.

I wear many hats! I am a Kingdom Gal! I am a Jesus Chic! I am an Author, Writer, Motivator, Single Mom and Certified Life and Empowerment Coach! I am earning my Phd in Christian Counseling; so that I can continue my passion and purpose to inspire, motivate, empower and encourage young ladies and women to live a better life!

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read this post; it is greatly appreciated!

Secure The Bag! #SpiritualSundays

By a show of hands; who has heard of this saying that is going around? “Secure The Bag”?

I have been hearing this all over social media! Everybody has been chiming in and putting their own spin on it! I’m getting emails from individuals I have subscribed too; telling me to “Secure The Bag”!!

Me being an Introvert; many times something just sticks with me and I allow it to marinate and after a few hours, few days, few months; you get me right?

That thing comes back; since I had time to process it, analyze it; and take it apart! And this is what came to my mind; just a couple days ago: “I keep hearing all this talk about “secure the bag!” But, what about “Secure Your Soul!” All the bags in the world won’t be able to save you; if your Soul is jacked up!!!

Does that make sense? It did to me….. You see when you get to living your life a certain way and you are going about doing things differently! You aren’t worried and don’t partake in the ways of the world!!!

2 Corinthians 5:17 says this: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (NKJV)

1 Timothy 6:10 says this: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (NKJV)

Mark 8:36 says this: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (NKJV)

Now the next scripture I am sharing is only part of the story; I need you to take a look at the whole part!!! Matthew 4:1-11; you need to read this in its entirety but let me share the part I want to highlight!!

“Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” Matthew 4:8-9 (NKJV)

Y’all I almost fell out when I heard this!! I was driving; on my way to work, listening to the audio Bible and when I heard this!! It had been in my spirit for a minute! I’ve seen it before! But, for some reason hearing it on that particular day made it so real!!

The enemy out here tricking folk!! Got them believing that God is rewarding them for doing something good!! The enemy rewards too!! Did y’all know that? Who knew this and didn’t share it with others? Who?

Look if you read the whole scripture; Matthew 4:1-11; I promise you this will all make sense!

Even though Jesus was growing tired! You have to remember He had fasted for 40 days and 40 nights! Jesus was tired and hungry!! How many of us get tired, get weary and hungry and just want to to be finished? Just tell me what I have to say; so I can go and sleep? Just tell me what you what me to do; so I can go eat?

He still had the Word of God; on his lips!! Each time the enemy came at him; He was ready for him!! Each and every time; He never gave in! He never threw in the towel!! How many of us when we get tired, frustrated and disgusted; forget what we heard? Forget what we read? Forget what we know to be true?

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)

Look y’all; I know times be hard and nobody likes to be walking around here broke. But, just make sure; what and who; you are accepting into your life! Make sure your going down the right path and you won’t one day regret the decision that you’ve made. Know whose team you are signing up to be on!!

Now, if you still want to “Secure The Bag”; make sure it’s a duffel bag!! Tell the enemy I’m packing up; I’m moving out and you will never see me; ever again!! I’m going back home; where I belong!!! #securethebag

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

Check me out on Instagram: http://instagram.com/singlemomofpurpose and http://instagram.com/kingdomgals

Check out my books on Amazon: https://bit.ly/author_tamara

And, if this is your first time on my blog let me introduce myself.

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read this post; it is greatly appreciated!

From the Desk of a Single Mom: Our Very 1st Home….Thank You Jesus!!

Can I brag on My God! God did it! We sometimes want to take credit for the things that happen in our lives! But, I can’t and won’t do that today! Some of us just won’t give credit where it is due! I won’t be one of them!

On 5.11.18 my children and myself were able to secure our very 1st home! That’s a big blessing; one that we can’t take any credit for! So many of us fail to realize that we don’t have total and complete control of what takes place in our lives! Yes, we can get a job and make a bunch of money (some of us) and we can buy all the nice shiny sparkling things; that people will ooh and ahh over but none of that makes any difference if you don’t have God in your life!

Buying a house isn’t a fun and easy process! If you got cold hard cash; then maybe you won’t get the headache! But, when you have to deal with sellers, mortgage companies, banks; etc those headaches are numerous! Your credit score has to be on point! Your bank account has to be at a certain level because you have fees on top of fees you will have to pay out. Did I forget to mention that I didn’t go through one of those 1st time home buyers class? I skipped all over that step; lol! I dove in head first and had no idea what I was getting myself into!

My parents where home buyers before but I was a child when that process took place for the first time; when my dad brought another house years later; he made it seem so easy I didn’t even ask about all the mishaps that could take place. I didn’t tell too many people I was looking to buy because:

I didn’t want to hear any horror stories!
or do you think your ready?
or really; you think you can handle that?
I don’t know if the market is good for that.
or people counting my coins!
and I didn’t want anyone telling me what God couldn’t do!

I don’t know about you but as a Single Mom; people always feel like you don’t have it all together and need their two cents! Now, don’t get me wrong I love some good sound advice but don’t treat me like I haven’t been raising my kids all this time by myself! I know what I can and can’t handle! And I got a pretty good head on my shoulders and a big decision like this I checked with my Heavenly Father first! He knows what the forecast is before any of us even open our eyes!

You see, when we moved into our last apartment 06.08.17 I wrote a note and put it on my prayer wall! It basically was me saying this had to be it with this apartment living! I was done with it! I was tired, my kids were tired and we wanted better for our lives! We grew tired of all the rules that these apartment communities enforced! They basically had the keys to come and go as they pleased while you were paying the rent! Every time we turned around they were having inspections for this and for that; people all up in your living space. You could park here; but you can’t park there! You can have these many guests over and they have to leave at this time! They charged you for everything; gym key, washer and dryer, updated appliances; jeez really! I was putting out so much money and I knew there had to be a better way.

I would often dream about the day when we could have our own; I prayed for it, I put it on my vision boards; until the last vision board that I did, I just felt it was already done! No need to look for and paste these pictures of houses and what they would have inside of it anymore!

We started the journey almost 6 months into living in that last apartment. I called up a friend that also happens to be a realtor and told him I was ready to start looking for a house! I didn’t know chicken squat about what I needed to do or have; I just knew I was ready! He began to send me listings and gave me the name of a guy at the mortgage company and we were on our way! I wish I could tell you that it was smooth sailing; it wasn’t! The whole process was stressful! Any time you want to upgrade your life; the enemy will be on full alert and the attacks will begin! How dare you think that you deserve more? Better? How dare you?

Let me tell you something! I kept on full steam ahead! My Heavenly Father sent his “only begotten son so that we can have life and have it more abundantly” I wasn’t backing down! And you know some may say; well where is this house? Is it up on a hill? Is it 2 stories high? Is it in a gated community? Does it have those high vaulted ceilings? Are there chandeliers hanging throughout? All that is materialistic and isn’t everlasting! God knows I am a simple chic and that the memories we will build here are far more valuable then all that material stuff!

When I walked into this home; I felt at HOME! I didn’t want to leave! I could feel the joy radiating off the walls! I could feel the laughter! I could feel my kids feeling safe and secure! I could feel God blessing us over and over again! We put in an offer and it was accepted! Yes God! But, I have to add there were many houses before this house! Some far more better, had much more land, had even more rooms and space! There was 1 house that was completely renovated! Had the biggest backyard I’ve ever seen and a garage with the exact washer and dryer set I’ve always wanted; but I didn’t have any of those wonderful feelings I experienced in the home we chose! I wasn’t going to settle because my eyes were fascinated at what I saw! The enemy knows what you like; but God knows what you need!

Every morning I get up I still can’t believe it! Our very 1st Home; I could run, yell and scream and not have to worry about anyone living under us calling and complaining about the noise! I don’t have to wait to vacuum until its almost afternoon time because you might disturb the neighbors! The neighborhood is so calm and peaceful! My neighbors are nice and friendly! My kids haven’t fought not once since we moved in! I have an island in my kitchen! Every place we have lived in the past 5 years the kitchen was so small; we all couldn’t fit in there! Our kitchen now can fit all the kitchens from all our past places! Only God!

Let me tell you this if nobody else has: ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE WHEN YOU HAVE GOD IN YOUR LIFE!

I’m still a Single Mom, still haven’t found the right career path but let me tell you this; we aren’t living in another apartment because God said it was time to advance!! I don’t question when God moves anymore! I used to get frustrated with him; like come on God when is something going to happen! When will I get married? When will I stop living paycheck to paycheck? When will my books start being on women’s bookshelves and in their hands? When? Our time isn’t God’s time! When He says it is time; then we better be ready! Are you ready? Are you ready to advance? What actions are you taking? All I had to do was “write the vision and make it plain!” NO MORE APARTMENT LIVING IN 2018!

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

Check me out on Instagram: http://instagram.com/singlemomofpurpose and http://instagram.com/kingdomgals

Join my Facebook group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/274547549700921

Check out my books on Amazon: https://bit.ly/author_tamara

And, if this is your first time on my blog let me introduce myself.

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read this post; it is greatly appreciated!

Inner Circle: Who Is In Yours?

Godly Relationships….Godly Community…..Godly Connections…..

Ask yourself:

Do you have them? Do you fit in with them? Do you inspire them?

What do your relationships look like?

Do you have community that you can count on? Who can you call when you are in trouble?

What kind of friend are you? This is probably the most important question you can ask yourself; when it comes to relationships! So many are seeking relationships-friendships; but lack everything they are seeking in another!

Let’s take a look at some biblical journeys of Godly relationships-friendships to get a feel of what they look like……

Daniel Represents:

“Then the king gave Daniel high honors and many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon. Daniel made a request of the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego over the affairs of the province of Babylon. But Daniel remained at the king’s court.” Daniel 2:48-49 (ESV)

Ask yourself:

Do you have Godly Relationships that when they are promoted; they don’t forgot about you and how you held them down? When Daniel went in to interpret the King’s Dream who did he ask to petition God? Do you have friends that will aid you in getting your prayers answered?

Ruth takes a stand:

“But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.” And when Naomi saw that she was determined to go with her, she said no more.” Ruth 1:16-18 (ESV)

The story of Ruth shows us a perfect example of a Godly Relationship-Community-Connections…..Not only did she desire to not return to her people; her previous life! She got the ultimate blessing in the end!

Ask yourself:

Do you allow people to see the real you or the mask?

Do you allow people to see you broken and hurt?

Do you allow people to speak into your life?

Do you allow others to help mold you into your best self?

Friendship-Relationships shouldn’t be created as a one-way street! So many people are focused on what they will get out of a relationship; they forget to figure out what they bring to the table!

When Jesus set out to complete his mission; he knew he would need others to assist him. Spreading the word of God isn’t an easy task because you will always have those that rebel. Jesus knew he needed a team to walk along side of him and those He could trust when He wasn’t around to still spread the good news!

But guess what? It wasn’t a one-way relationship! Yes, the disciples gave up much to walk with Jesus; but look at what they gained for being part of His Inner Circle!

Ask yourself:

Do you have what it takes to be part of Godly Relationships-Community?

Are you willing to remove the mask and show your real-true self?

Are you willing to put aside what no longer serves you?

Can you commit to helping others succeed in life; without personal gain?

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

Check me out on Instagram: http://instagram.com/singlemomofpurpose and http://instagram.com/kingdomgals

Join my Facebook group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/274547549700921

Check out my books on Amazon: https://bit.ly/author_tamara

And, if this is your first time on my blog let me introduce myself.

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read this post; it is greatly appreciated!

#SpiritualSundays: Your Steps Are Ordered…..

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps”. Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

You know I didn’t have anything planned to write about today; and then I read this scripture! Wow, isn’t that amazing? I know I was amazed!

Does it make you wonder how it would apply to other things as well? You are getting ready to go hang out with friends and all of a sudden; they call and cancel on you. You got this amazing interview lined up; for what you think, is the perfect job and they send you a letter the day before saying: we have decided to go with someone more qualified!

How would that make you feel? Either situation at face value may suck and put you in a funk; but, look at it differently. Read that scripture again but this time more slowly and meditate on its every word. “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps”. Proverbs 16:9

You were almost ready; on your way out the door but God had something else in mind for you! You called all your friends and family and told them about this interview, the company and all the money you would be making; but God has other plans for you!

Better is coming! The things that we hope and pray for can be our best in our minds but God can always go Higher, Bigger; and Better.

How do you feel when these type of situations take place? Do you talk about your friend to someone else? “Girl, I can’t believe she did me like that; I was all ready on my way out the door!” Dude, that man was talking about this party all week and all of a sudden; he gonna call and cancel on me? I wasn’t dressed yet but I was about to be!”

Sound familiar? After reading and meditating on that scripture; do you feel any different? Will you think differently next time? I will assure you there will be a next time! Learn the lesson now and change your reaction to it!

Have you ever heard that saying “you learn something new everyday?” Well I’m here to tell you that is a true saying!

What I learned yesterday; but didn’t catch it until this morning! Is that God is always blessing us! It may not look or feel like a blessing at that moment but as you take the time and internalize it and think on it; you will catch the revelation.

We don’t know what God was blocking when he cancels out our plans. He could be saving our lives! Saving us from some type of hurt or pain! When you look at it this way; you change your thinking, your mindset, the outcome and your reaction to the situation and just thank him!

Thank you Lord for stepping in all those situations that we think are good but you see it as bad! Thank you for that phone call or letter that may seem like a negative but you turned it into a positive!

If you liked this blog post; check out my many others on my website. http://www.tamaramccarthyenterprises.com

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

Check me out on Instagram: http://instagram.com/singlemomofpurpose and http://instagram.com/kingdomgals

Ladies, Join my Facebook group: https://m.facebook.com/groups/274547549700921

Check out my books on Amazon: https://bit.ly/author_tamara

And, if this is your first time on my blog let me introduce myself.

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read this post; it is greatly appreciated!

Christian Author Spotlight: Torre A. Stocker

#ChristianAuthorSpotlight

This week’s featured author is Torre A. Stocker.

Who is he?

Why did he write this book?

What are his accomplishments?

Who is his target market?

What is his motivational message to you; the reader?

Find out below:

Success Moments was written, not as a devotional or one day read, but as a tool to assist individuals with critically thinking about where they are in life. The purpose of the book is to motivate individuals to pursue success in every area of life.

My target market is not limited to entrepreneurs or small business owners. Success Moments speaks to every individual at any walk in life. From the college student to the adult that is seeking a career move, this book will broaden the horizon of your mind and open you up to a new world of provoked thoughts.

Success Moments is a collection of conversation pieces that will provoke critical thinking and a thought process that will yield residual measures of success. The purpose of this book is to educate, empower, and engage individuals to consider a holistic approach to success in every area of life. By educating the reader through various topics, they will be empowered to engage in any business sector. Each conversational moment of success is followed by a challenge to apply the knowledge and consider methods to maximize the opportunity for continual success.

I want to encourage every reader to take each thought in this book and allow it to be instrumental to their personal and professional growth and development. At the end of each conversational piece, the reader is able to write in the book to maintain an account of how this the motivational moment can attribute to their success.

I want to thank all the authors thus far that have allowed me to Spotlight their work, their knowledge, wisdom, inspirational messages and their gifts! Thank you all so much; we have to get out our messages by all means necessary!

And I can’t forget about the amazing Evangelist Angie Bee and her husband Bartee and their show that airs on Facebook Live every Wednesday that spotlights and interviews all of our featured authors as well!! 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙏🏽

Kingdom work isn’t easy but we continue to press!

If you would like to be a featured Christian Author please send me an email at tamaramccarthyenterprises@gmail.com

©️2018 Tamara McCarthy Enterprises used with permission Torre A. Stocker (Christian Author Spotlight Series)

When Your Frustration Kicks In: #SpiritualSundays

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” John 16:33 (NLT)

How many of us will raise our hands and admit we sometimes get frustrated? Yes, we have faith and yes; we believe in God. But, we also get frustrated! Frustration is a part of life; none of us are perfect and we will all experience this at some point in our lives.

We get frustrated when things don’t go our way! We get frustrated when God doesn’t move when we want him to move! We get frustrated when the people in our lives just can’t and won’t do right!

Women get frustrated when they continually get passed over and must wait for a relationship to come their way. Men get frustrated when they can’t find the right woman. Employees get frustrated that they can’t get the promotion they deserve; unemployed people get frustrated when they can’t find a job; or the right job. Entrepreneurs get frustrated when they don’t make any sales or get any new clients.

Students get frustrated when they don’t have the right teachers in their schools. Teachers get frustrated when they feel neglected and underpaid. Parents get frustrated when their kids won’t listen to their wisdom, knowledge and reasoning. Kids get frustrated when parents won’t allow them to have a voice. Husbands get frustrated when their wives won’t submit; wives get frustrated when their husbands won’t listen or communicate with them.

“Extortion turns a wise person into a fool, and a bribe corrupts the heart. The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride. Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools”. Ecclesiastes 7:7-9 (NIV)

Frustration can easily turn into anger; we don’t want to get to that point. When we allow our emotions to take over; then it can easily turn into a negative situation. Anyone of these scenarios can take the wrong turn and that’s what we need to avoid.

As Christians, we want to take this and spin it into a learning curve or a give it a positive outcome. As humans that can sometimes be a hard thing for some of us to do; but, we must find ways to not let our emotions get the best of us.

Check out this article written by Pastor Rick Warren: http://pastorrick.com/devotional/english/five-steps-for-handling-frustration

What Can You Do When Your Frustration Kicks In?

Take a step back and look at the situation from the outside. What do you see?
Are you allowing your emotions to control you? Do you have a valid reason to be frustrated?
Ask God to step in and fix your heart and your thoughts; allow him to give and show you a different perspective.
Prayer! Everyone one always says this; for every situation! Why? Because it works….
Write it down; why are you frustrated? Writing always helps me; who would of thought that writing can be soothing to your soul.

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

Check out my books on Amazon: bit.ly/author_tamara

My newest book is now available: Kingdom Gals; Keep It Classy For Jesus

And, if this is your first time on my blog let me introduce myself.
I wear many hats! I am a Kingdom Gal! I am a Jesus Chic! I am an Author, Writer, Motivator, Single Mom and Certified Life and Empowerment Coach! I am earning my Phd in Christian Counseling; so that I can continue my passion and purpose to inspire, motivate, empower and encourage young ladies and women to live a better life!

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read this post; it is greatly appreciated!

Special Edition: It’s My Anniversary: Single Mom of Purpose….

You know what? I’m happy! I’m Free! I’m excited about my life as a Single Woman and even more a Single Mom! My kids are such a blessing and amazing kids! They work my nerves; LOL, but they make me want to be the Best Mom possible!

This is My Story:

This month; this year marks 11 years that I decided to take a stand; and decided that my children and I mattered more than a superficial relationship; that I had been wrapped up in.

Have I looked backed? Of course; and you know what I realized? That I made the best decision possible!

I was a Single Mom then; and I continue to be one today; it’s hard but I continue to press because I know God is with us!

We’ve never wanted for anything along this journey that God didn’t provide! Always had shelter, food, water, clothes; the necessities anything else is and was a blessing!

So many women think they can’t make it without a so-called man (a grown boy) so they settle and years later regret that very decision! I didn’t want to continue down that road; that bump in the road!

You see staying with him; allowing him to mistreat me, disrespect me and my children; wasn’t going to be a lifetime option for me!

I wouldn’t, I couldn’t; stand before you now as The Single Mom of Purpose….I am because God says I am..He and only He holds the keys to my Life…My Destiny…

Being single at times isn’t fun; and it’s hard work being a Single Mom! But, when you know that Greater is Coming! Baby, you look here; I’m ready and equipped to take on whatever trial and tribulation I have too and push through to that Blessing on the other side….

This is my Truth; what’s yours? Be unafraid! It took me sometime to find my voice; but know that I have…..

Check out some of my books over on Amazon.com

Single Moms You Aren’t Alone: Becoming a Single Woman of Purpose (Volume 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1518658121/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LhDDAbCPR4PQJ

The Single Woman Chronicles: God, Men & You (Volume 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1532881398/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cjDDAbYT2S3WS

#SpiritualSundays: 6 Steps to Enlarge Your Borders. Written by Tarsha L. Campbell

Are you yearning to take your life to a whole new level? Do you aspire to reach beyond your current boundaries and enlarge your territory? If you answered “yes” to these two questions than this article is for you! Below are six steps I personally employed in my own life to enlarge my borders and step into the divine spaces prepared for me. Let’s check them out:

Desire More

To desire means to long for. So many people lack desire. They have resolved to settle for the status quo. You must realize in order to have more, you have to reach for more. This means stepping out of your comfort zone and going beyond what you are accustom to. (Matthew 7:7-8)

Envision More

You have to see beyond what’s around you to enlarge your borders. Having vision is important when stretching forth into new territory. Vision is the vehicle that propels you to new dimensions.
Vision involves seeing the new territory before you even leave the station. (Proverbs 29:18)

Seek God For Strategies

When desiring to stretch out into larger territory the first place to start is in prayer. Seeking God for strategies to enlarge your borders is essential to your success. In doing so, you ensure you are moving forth in the right direction. A strategy is a plan of action, a game plan designed to achieve a goal. Without a plan of action you are planning to fail. (John 2:1-5)

Execute the Plan

Execute means to carry out the plan, to work. This is where most people drop the ball. To enlarge your borders it takes action on your part. When God gives you strategies it’s up to you to work them and see them through to completion. (James 2:17-18)

Avoid “Border Control”

In your quest to enlarge your borders you have to avoid people that try to place limits on your growth. It is important to establish divine connections. Be lead by the Spirit to connect with people who are going your way and cut loose from those who try to control your advancement and progress. (Matthew 18:18-20)

Praise God For New Ground

This final step is an act of faith. Even before you reach the new territory you need to acknowledge the one from whom all blessings flow. It is through God’s grace you will accomplish your goal. In praising Him you release His unlimited favor on your behalf! (Psalm 107:7-9)

(Scripture references from King James Version)

Kingdom Gals: Power, Persistence & Prayer……Tamara McCarthy

I was listening to a devotional the other day; did you get that “listening”! Don’t you just love the power of technology? You can listen instead of reading; Praise God!! When you’re busy and on the go; that is an awesome way to get some spiritual reading in.

So, like I was saying I was listening to a devotional the other day and the author was talking about three things: Power, Persistence and Prayer! These are three words that you want to incorporate into your life starting today; if you already haven’t!

The author of the devotional didn’t go into what the words mean; maybe because they are self-explanatory. But, I like to be thorough when I explain something; so I am going to go the extra mile and provide a definition for each.

Power: “ability to act or produce an effect “and “possession of control, authority, or influence over others” (www.merriamwebster.com)

Persistence: not backing down or refusing to give up (personal definition)

Prayer: “the act or practice of praying to God” (www.merriamwebster.com)

Now, that I provided a definition to give an understanding of what we are speaking about today; let’s dive in.

Have you ever heard someone say that “your words have power“? How about “what you speak determines what will happen in your life“? If you speak negatively that can bring an negative outcome; what about speaking positive? Why would people speak negative into their life or the lives of others? It’s simple, many people don’t believe that there is “power in their words”. How can God bless your situation if you are constantly speaking negatively?

Are you persistent when you pray? Do you keep praying for the same things? Or do you give up after you don’t see any movement? That was the question the author posed; “are you being persistent; when you prayer? Do you keep on asking, seeking and knocking?

Matthew 7:7 (KJV) says this “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you“.

In the book of Luke 18:1-8 (KJV) we find out about the persistent widow but I want to highlight verse 4-5: “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think,yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!” (www.biblegateway.com)

Are we going to get everything we pray for? Maybe not, but should we just give up completely and not continue to pray?

God will tell you No sometimes; that just how it’s going to be. He has the master plan for our lives; maybe we are shooting too low and He wants us to go higher. God isn’t a materialistic God! He just doesn’t operate out of cars, clothes and money! He isn’t like that. He tells us in his word that we shouldn’t concentrate on the things of this world. (Romans 12:2)

Make a list of the things that you have been praying for; which ones do you think are important to God and the plans He has for your life? Do you need those new shoes? Maybe not; especially if you have 50 other pair in your closet; you can scratch that off your list. Are you praying to go on a missions trip and cant afford to go? This is where you want to speak those powerful words, be persistent and prayer! This can stay on your list and just await the outcome.

Who are you praying for? God isn’t a selfish God; he gives freely and expects us to do the same. Are you taking the time out to pray for others and their well-being? Who is on your prayer list? Do you have a prayer list? If not; start one today!

Who in your life; can use some intercessory prayer? Intercede for those that can’t pray for themselves and use those powerful words, be persistent on their behalf. Everyone doesn’t believe in the power of prayer; so you will have to be their advocate.

You may be asking yourself; what should I pray for them? You can be simple or you can be detailed; allow the spirit to move/direct you. Example: Father God, I come to you today on behalf of my co-worker; who may be in need of your help. She doesn’t want to ask you; so I will intercede for her. Help her in all her difficult times and trying situations that may look helpless to her. Show her that you are real; and love all your children; even though they may be going down the wrong path. Guide her steps, oh Lord. In the mighty name of your son Jesus, I pray. Amen.

This kind of prayer can be applied to anyone and their situation; just change up the names and circumstances. Can you imagine how better our lives would be as a whole; if we prayed more for those around us?

Have you ever drove past a car accident and just prayed for all those involved? What about driving or walking past a homeless person; did you pray for them and their situation? And the countless children that are given up for adoption and placed in foster homes; did you pray for them?

There are so many different circumstances that require us to pray. Prayer isn’t selfish; it’s just not for us and our needs; but prayer will require us to pray for others as well.

When something happens beyond our control; people are quick to ask: “Where was God; how could He allow this to happen?”. Did you petition Him? Did you cry out and ask Him that very question? Do you have a relationship with Him? Relationship requires prayer…will you pray?

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