Tag: #leadership

Why Are You Here?

Matthew 5:1-16

Jesus gave His disciples a PEP TALK….

Jesus never missed out on an opportunity to TEACH His disciples! He knew he wouldn’t physically be with them forever, so He wanted to equip them to be effective when He departed from them!

He never shied away from speaking life into them; encouraging, motivating and empowering them to do the same things that he was able to do. But he also let them know when they were slacking off and not being who he had called them to be!

He wanted to let them know while he was training them to be fishers of men that it wouldn’t be an easy task. The road wouldn’t be easy; they would encounter many trials and tribulations on their journey; but he wanted to instill in them that they were above all that they would encounter.; and no matter how it looked or how it felt! He would always be with them!

As children of the Most High God this still applies to us this very day! The same words that Jesus spoke to His disciples have the same effect and power today! No matter your situation or circumstance; you’re still BLESSED! No matter what you’re going through when you’re living for more of God and less of you; You’re still Blessed!! But guess what?

As Children of God; we are the Salt of the Earth and the Light of the World! We will have to be the light not only for ourselves but for those around us too. We will have to share our trials and tribulations as well as our revelations. How can we be called to be the light and salt of the world; yet won’t help our brother and sister along the way? How are we to go through life and not shine our light throughout? Our testimony can be the very thing that someone else needs to hear to get their breakthrough!

Everyone won’t understand what they are going through especially those that are called “babes in Christ”. I wish I had someone who pulled me aside when I first became saved/a born again Christian-When I got baptized my first and second time and tell me young lady this journey won’t be easy, but you keep pushing. The enemy will be hot on your trail, but you keep pushing. This journey to be a sheep-a servant-a chosen and willing vessel-for the Kingdom of God; won’t always be bright and sunny; But You Keep Pushing!

Salt by itself isn’t that appealing but when it is partnered with the right ingredients-the right words-the right motives-the right intentions-the results are God driven and not Human driven—we have endless examples of Willing Vessels shining their light and sprinkling salt when needed to get Kingdom results-just as they paved the way for us; we have to pave the way for others by shining our light.

We will have to take a stand on practices that aren’t of God—as well as people-places-things that don’t line up with the word of God. Everyone doesn’t represent the Kingdom of God; many are lovers of darkness that have crept into the House of God and they are on assignment to try and get you on their team; get you off track- and out of the will of God; but be on guard and don’t allow them to overtake you.

We all have to learn to shine brighter than our problems; our emotions and especially our haters. This is why it is so vital for us as Children of God to stay in His word; speak His word and live His word!

We are to be the light of the world; we should be front and center shining our light all over the world!

We should be taking others under our wing and showing them the proper way to do things. The proper way of living for God! The proper way to represent God! We can’t assume that they are observing us from afar.

Older women should be mentoring the younger women/girls making sure our walk with God is on point! 

Older men should be mentoring the younger men/boys and making sure their walk with God is on point.

Aren’t we all supposed to be obedient to God? From what I read I don’t see where any of us are exempt. Some think since they have reached a certain age their time is done; they paid their dues; why are you Here? Why are you still coming into God’s house if you don’t want to be used by him? He doesn’t need you to just show up because you got a new dress or a new suit; he is still looking for willing vessels; will you be one? Abraham and Sarah both thought their time was up: but God still used them!

God knows his children! He knows the ones he can give certain tasks and assignments too! God is seeking out those that will be obedient; not only look the part, he has enough of those roaming around; he wants those that will answer the call and take action. He doesn’t need any more bench warmers he wants those that are ready to carry the torch! Be the light in a dark and gloomy world and isn’t afraid of going up against the big bad wolf! 

Some of us lukewarm Christians only want surface Jesus! Just enough of him to get by. But God requires Total Surrender! That requires US giving Him OUR all! 

What are you doing in your life that is a reflection in the God you claim to serve? 

Just you coming to church every Sunday sitting in the pews and giving your Amen here and there; putting your $20 in the collection plate; that doesn’t warrant a life running after Jesus; wanting more of God!

You want God to bless and heal you, but you won’t give Him access to your life. You keep him at bay until an emergency comes up and that’s when you start crying out to Him? That’s when you start asking everyone to pray for you? Why not be proactive and talk and pray to God each and every day? Why not Give Him full access into your life? Isn’t that what Jesus did? Every chance He got He was going away by himself to have quiet time to commune and talk with God! I remember seeing these words that Jesus spoke in Luke 22:42 “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will; but thine, be done” All Jesus wanted to do was the work of His Father; All He wanted was to complete the assignment He was sent here to do! If Jesus did it why can’t you?

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2020 Copyrighted 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!

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#SpiritualSundays: How Bad Do You Want Him?

How Bad Do You Want Him?

Scripture: Matthew 19:16-22

This young ruler had everything that he could imagine! Cars! Clothes! Money! Maids & Butlers! Cooks & Chefs! Someone that would drive him from point A and point B and get out and open up his door for him and announce his name before he entered into rooms; so the people would know that they were in the presence of royalty! 

But he was obviously lacking in some areas because he approached Jesus and asked him: “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life ?” This lets us know that his life wasn’t all peachy! He wasn’t completely whole and there was some areas in his life; where he knew he could do better!

I don’t know about y’all; but I know I’m nowhere near perfect and I could use a lot more Jesus in my life! Matter fact I’m always praying for God to have complete control! One of my prayers is make me over God!! Renew in me a clean heart; I know I am nothing without you at the forefront of my life!!

With everything thing that is going on in this world; it still amazes me that so many people still don’t believe and still deny the one and only true Living God!! 

Is there anyone in here today that will touch and agree with me? I need a whole lot more Jesus in my life! Let me say it a little bit louder; so the people in the back and the passerby’s can hear me: I NEED A WHOLE LOT MORE JESUS IN MY LIFE!!

So many people walk around like they don’t need Jesus or God! They are good all by themselves! They wake up on their own! They are their own personal alarm clock!! They breathe on their own! They stand up on their own! They run the race alone! They need no help from no one! But if you venture back to your bible and go to the book of Genesis we are reminded that God created Heaven and Earth and everything and everyone in it! He is the reason why we can open our eyes! Clap our hands! Stomp our feet and hear the sound of rain!! That’s all God! It isn’t science and it never will be science; I don’t care who told you that!! We got black and white to back it up all they have are made up theories..

They believe that Everything they have is because they have worked overtime to get it! But many of them are sadly mistaken and it’s time to set the record straight! Many of them are enjoying the fruits of someone else’s labor! They have inherited the blessings that they are claiming to have got on their own! They are walking around all bad and boogie and they haven’t even lifted one finger to gain anything they got and they won’t even acknowledge it wasn’t them but someone that came before them is the reason why they have been blessed!

“Comedian and actor Robin Williams was one of the most well-known and successful comedians of his time. His life followed the textbook path to stardom for an up-and-coming comedian – from local bars to a major TV role (Mork and Mindy) to HBO specials, and finally to becoming a major movie star. He had suffered from depression in the later years of his life, and there were reports he was suffering from a mental disorder in addition to depression that led to him hanging himself at his California home in Paradise Gay in 2014. The tragedy is that a man who spent most of his life making people laugh was filled with a sadness we could not see or understand.” At his time of death sources state that he was worth an estimated $50 million. Now I also want to share that during his career he had been married 3 x someone say 3 x all I want to be married is once!! 1x is all I need cause when I do get married my husband is stuck ain’t no getting no divorce!! Whatever come up! We working that thing out!! But Robin Williams was divorced 2x somebody say 2x and both times he had to pay each of his ex wives $30 million dollars…somebody say dang!!! Both times 30 million dollars this is why you have to make sure you’re marrying the right person. Consult with God; shoot even the Holy Spirit can offer some insight into making life changing decisions!! Everybody repeat after me: God Am I making the right decision? Holy Spirit Am I doing the right thing? I told God years ago that he was going to have to send me my husband! I was giving up looking for one. I was tired of being a pawn in the dating game and when my husband was ready he would know how to find me. 

Anthony Bourdain:

“Died June 8, 2018, age 61, by hanging himself.

He Was a celebrity chef, travel show host, and New York Times bestselling author. Won 8 Emmy Awards!

He battled drug addiction in the past, and had openly discussed his struggles with depression

His mother said, “He is absolutely the last person in the world I would have ever dreamed would do something like this. He had everything.” His net worth is said to be somewhere around $16 million.

What won’t you give up to follow Jesus? He gave His life so that we can live and you aren’t willing to sacrifice anything? You won’t give up eating one day a week to fast and pray to get a breakthrough in your life? 

You won’t stop spending on shoes and bags that you can’t even put in your closet; because it’s already stuffed? You don’t even want to be a blessing to someone else with that money you’re using to fund these world systems! 

The homeless person that you pass on the street holding up the sign asking for food; you won’t give to them because you think they’re going to do something else with the money? 

But what are these corporations doing with the money that you give them faithfully when you’re spending your whole paycheck with them? They are aiding terrorists and the KKK but you’re not complaining about that; but soon as the church ask you for a donation you ready to flip out and curse somebody out? It doesn’t make sense! 

Many of us want surface Jesus!! I’ve said this before: we want just enough of Him to get by. We don’t want to give our lives completely over to him because we know we would have to change and give up some stuff! How can stuff be more important than God, than your inheritance, than your salvation, than the life of those connected to you! This isn’t just about you! It’s about the generations after you! Your child! Their children and you’re more focused on stuff! Stuff that you can’t take with you when you leave this earth!! I’m not that person I want to go deep sea diving take me to greater depths God so your name can be magnified!! Remove anything and anyone that isn’t of you and doesn’t have your soul and your spirit connected to them! Let those that don’t believe see the greatness you’ve done in my life so that they will want more of you and less of them!!

If you got to dress it up and make it all pretty I don’t want it!! God never said it was going to be easy! He said he would never leave us nor forsake us! We are going to go through those dark valleys; those murky waters; etc but if we allow Him to guide us then why are we afraid? Why? You trust everyone else but not Him? The creator of Heaven and Earth!! He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and you need a sign to know if He is real or not? Let me be the first to say: God I want all of You!! Take me as I am and Change Me! Make me over! Whatever is in me that’s not of you; take it away!!

What has the enemy promised you if you hold out a little while longer? You know God has prepared everything that you’ve been praying for; all He needs you to do is follow His lead! But you got your cousin still in your ear causing you delay and distracting you with everything and everyone that God hasn’t designed or created for you; none of it is what you’ve prayed for but it’s shiny and the enemy keeps dangling it in front of you! What has he whispered in your ear? 

This young ruler walked away from Jesus! He walked away from God! He walked away from his future inheritance!! He thought he had all he needed and he was good; but guess what? He walked away from eternal life; that isn’t promised without God! You don’t get that when you decide to turn your back on God! God isn’t obligated to save you a spot just because! Oh he is doing everything else besides giving up his riches for me; let me save him a spot! No that’s not how it works!! God requires total submission! All worldly things must cease when God steps on the scene!!

This young ruler loved his possessions more than he loved God! While he was keeping the commandments he still hadn’t given his life over to God. You can’t come to God straddling the fence! You can’t have one foot in heaven and the other in hell. You can’t claim to be a lover of God and love money at the same time. One is going to eventually become more important than the other. Most people go for the money. 1 Timothy 6:10 says this: “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (KJV) 

Jesus knew when he came to earth that everyone wasn’t going to love him and accept Him. He chose certain people to walk with him; were they perfect? No. Did they have it all together? No. But They dropped everything to follow him. They gave up their family, they gave up their livelihood. Jesus was offering eternal life, the opportunity to change the world and to become fishers of men. In John 21:15 Jesus asks the question of the hour: “Do you love me more than these”? This question was posed to Simon Peter as he and Jesus and some of the disciples sat down for breakfast. What I love about the question that was posed to Simon Peter is how did the question come about. Jesus had been crucified and had risen from the dead but before he was crucified he spent time with his disciples teaching them and training them to be fishers of men; to go out into the world and proclaim the good news to all who would listen and receive and heal the sick; but on this particular day; Jesus found some of his disciples on the boat fishing! 

The same question is being posed to you today: Do you love God more than these? What are the “these” in your life? Kids? Parents? Siblings? Your Boy Toy; that you know don’t want you? That chick that you call in the late night hour? That liquor bottle that you keep hidden under your kitchen sink? Those smokes that you keep hidden in your car? That blunt you hit before you came to church this morning? That needle that you keep using to ease the pain? That department store that you run to each and every payday? Those friends that keep pulling you in the wrong directions? Those pills that you keep popping because they take you to cloud 9? Those evil spirits that you allow to reside in your soul; because you think they make you better? What are your These? There should Be Nothing and Nobody that should take you away from having a personal relationship with God; or your personal journey to become a better child of God. 

My boys get on me every single week because they know that most weekends they aren’t going to see me; there are some Saturdays I leave home at 6am and I dont get back home until 8-9 pm that night; why? Cause I am out there bettering myself for the Kingdom of God; it benefits not only me but them too. When God blesses me those blessings are going to follow them. When those Generational Curses get broken that blesses them and their children!! 

I wanted God so bad that I gave up 12 years of my life to concentrate on Him and how I needed him in every area of my life! I stopped dating! I stopped sleeping around!! People on the outside looking in thought I was the perfect mom but they didn’t know in my early days I would leave my kids at home to go to the local bar to get drunk and get picked up by someone to soothe away my pain.

People on the outside looking in thought and would tell me all the time that you’re pretty or you’re beautiful and have beautiful eyes but they never knew when I looked in the mirror I hated the person looking back at me and couldn’t stand to look at myself because I had been destroyed from the inside out so many times that I began to believe all the negative that I heard.

Let me close by saying this: 

If I had time I would tell you that many of us; are like the young ruler and have already walked away from God!! They won’t fully trust Him with their life! They won’t give up those people, places & things that are pleasing to God!

If I had time I would tell you that you can’t straddle the fence between lightness and darkness and claim to be a disciple of Jesus! 

If I had time I would tell you that you need to pick up your Bible each and every single day and find a scripture that resonates with your soul and let it marinate throughout the day! 

If I had time I would tell you that it’s highly important that you thank God in your wins and in your losses! Praise Him every chance you get!

If I had time I would tell you that you should pray without ceasing every single day! Pray in the morning, afternoon and at night! But most importantly pray in the spirit!!

If I had time I would tell you that certain stuff only goes away with praying and fasting! Those soul ties those strongholds; those generational curses; aren’t leaving just because you don’t talk about them! You’re going to have to pray & fast!

If I had time I would tell you to love your neighbor as well as your enemy because God is watching and whatever we put out it will always come right back around!

If I had time I would tell you that God is better than anything this world can ever offer you! Money! Car! & Clothes!! Nothing can compare to Him; the Alpha & the Omega!!

If I had time I would ask you do you love money more than you love God? Money can’t hold you close at night when someone has literally stomped your heart in the ground; but God can..

If I had time I would ask you why are you really here? Do you want to be healed & delivered? Or are you still afraid to take up your mat and walk?

If I had time I would ask you what would it take for you to completely be all in for God? 

If I had time I would tell you to never let go of God’s unchanging hand; no matter how it looks; no matter how it feels!! 

The same question posed to Simon Peter by Jesus is the same question I have been sent to ask you all today: Do you love God more than these? What are your these? 

Sermon message preached 1-19-2020

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2020 Copyrighted 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!

It’s Just the Beginning: #Spiritual Sunday’s

Job 13:15-18 The Message (MSG)

 

“So hold your tongue while I have my say, then I’ll take whatever I have coming to me.

Why do I go out on a limb like this and take my life in my hands? Because even if he killed me, I’d keep on hoping. I’d defend my innocence to the very end.

Just wait, this is going to work out for the best—my salvation! If I were guilt-stricken do you think I’d be doing this—laying myself on the line before God?

You’d better pay attention to what I’m telling you, listen carefully with both ears. Now that I’ve laid out my defense, I’m sure that I’ll be acquitted.” (MSG)

When you read through the chapters of the book of Job you find out that Job was taken through the fire!! He lost a lot! He friends believed he did something wrong and even his wife doubted him!! But through it all Job kept his Faith in God and his blessings were multiplied!! He got double for his trouble…Why would your situation or mine be any different? Shouldn’t we have to go through the fire as well?

Could it be the very struggles your dealing with is because the enemy thinks you’re too laid back and wants to ruffle your feathers?

Sometimes you have to be crushed; in order to rebuild…..to refocus…to re-adjust!! If everything is going well in your life.. then what do you need God for? What do you need Faith for? Some of us need to be reminded of who and what got us to the heights we have reached! The tables we have sat at! The places we have been!

Crushing shouldn’t always be viewed as the end of something; but the beginning of something that is going to change the outlook and the pinnacle of your life.

Pinnacle:

1. a lofty peak.

2. the highest or culminating point, as of success, power, fame, etc.: the pinnacle of one’s career.

3. any pointed, towering part or formation, as of rock. Dictionary.com

You want your life to be transformed!! That requires Crushing to take place!!

Everything that no longer serves you: needs to be crushed….the season that you’re walking into and the greatness that God is about to allow to unfold in your life; can’t happen unless there is Crushing of old habits, old mindsets, old reactions, old relationships, they all need to be Crushed!!

Let’s look at it like this; what’s one of the hardest moments in your life? Most of us will have multiple moments buts let’s focus on just one for now. What happened? At what point in your life did it happen? Who came to your rescue? Did you survive?

Every crushing moment isn’t meant to kill you-it may feel like something has died or been removed from your life; but are you still opening your eyes every morning? Are you still getting up and standing on your own two feet? Are you able to walk to the mirror and your reflection is staring back at you? If you answered yes to all these questions then you Sir, You Maam have been granted a new lease on life! What are you going to do with it?

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted 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!

Are You Fit For The Kingdom? #spiritualsundays

Mark 8:34

“Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” NIV

Have you denied yourself today? Have you taken up your cross and followed Him; on the daily? This has to be done on a daily basis!! We can’t pick it up one day and put it down the next! We can’t deny ourselves today and not do it tomorrow! Okay, yes we are human but we as a follower of Christ; have to learn how to do better! One day do this and the next day; do more so it gets a little better until it becomes a habit! Pray today for 5 minutes and do that continually for a week and then the following week; move up to 10 minutes.

If something in your life is requiring some attention and you’re just praying about it; and you’re not getting the required results! Then prayer and fasting should be the next step; but guess what you will have to deny yourself! You can’t say that food is more important than your prayers being answered! Is fried food going to disappear tomorrow? Is ice cream going to be extinct; next week? You don’t have to do a 21 day fast to get results; you can do 7 days and still get your answers, clarity, direction, knowledge and understanding!

But are you equipped to handle it? You have to get in the habit of denying yourself! You can’t just jump out one day and do it cold turkey and expect it to work! Build yourself up to it! The disciples had to be trained and conditioned and we have to be that as well!

Being a follower of Christ doesn’t happen overnight! Yes you can make the decision to be His follower; but you have to learn how to continually walk with him; while everything else is being thrown at you. People talking about you; how did Jesus respond! People lying on you; how did Jesus respond? People attempting to sabotage you and try to get you off track; how did Jesus respond?

Get in your Bible!! Get your mind focused on what His word says; you will be equipped and ready for battle! “You’re never going to amount to anything; nobody wants you”. I’m blessed and highly favored! “You’re not going to be able to afford that; you just need to stay where you’re at.” “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

“Since you been going to that church you been acting like you better than somebody”; “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Do you want to be a disciple? Are you ready and willing to follow Him? Do you have the ability to pick up your cross; lay down your fleshly desires and walk with Him?

The disciples left their homes, their families, their livelihood, their hopes and dreams, their selfishness and walked with Jesus!! But guess what they got so much more than anything they could’ve thought of or imagined! What God has for us; is always going to be bigger than what YOU see; what YOU can touch…But you’ll have to give it all up to walk with Him. What you get in return will change YOUR LIFE…

Are You Fit for the KINGDOM OF GOD?

All scripture referenced can be found at

http://www.biblegateway.com

Written/ published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted

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!

#KingdomGals: Speak Your Truth

Who are you? Who are you becoming? Many of us women may be walking around still finding ourselves; not all of us have it completely together. 

Now is that a bad thing? Not entirely! Are you working on your issues? See; none of us are perfect! But we want to be working on becoming better! Right? Why do we want to stay stuck? Or boxed in? As women that are seeking a close relationship with God; we want to be transformed into the woman that can walk upright and become whole.

 

Becoming whole is knowing who we are in Christ and beginning to walk into it and stay focused on staying in close proximity. In doing this; we will have to look within and begin to sort out past issues and work through each one. In working through our past issues; we are clearing our path into future happiness! Who wants to be happy and free from past trials and tribulations? Our future shouldn’t have to sustain our past; it’s time to clear the way for God to work! Give Him room to bless you! 

 

The Bible is a great tool for us to begin/continue to read; so, we can not only get encouragement, motivation, inspiration, empowerment, knowledge and understanding; but we will also gain insight into the foundation that has been laid out for us to follow! 

There are endless stories for us as women to read such as Adam & Eve, Naomi, Ruth & Boaz, Lot’s wife, Sarah & Abraham, Hagar, Tamar, Mary & Joseph, Mary & Martha; etc. 

 

Let me tell you Who I Am: I am a Single Woman that LOVES God and believes in HIS WORD! 

Have you believed in something so much until it hurt? That is my dilemma right now; this very moment! I believe what the word of God says! I believe that God wants His children to prosper! I believe that God wants His children to live in abundance! I believe that God wants His children to live a life filled with love!

 

So, you may be asking; okay if you believe all of that; then what is your dilemma? None of this comes easy! The enemy isn’t going to allow any of us to just walk into God’s best for our lives! He started out with his foolishness in the Book of Genesis with Adam & Eve; the very first couple; why would we be any different? He went after Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; why would we be exempt? When you choose to walk with God; it’s not going to be an easy journey especially if you are in it for the long haul! It’s a fact that some fall away from walking with God; the crushing, the trials, the tribulations are for some; too much to bear so they retreat back into enemy territory. And then there are some of us that still dip back and forth and haven’t really made up our mind that we are really going to serve God; so, we get the best of both worlds; or so we think! But then there are those of us that don’t mind going through the flames because we know when we walk out ain’t no way that God allowed those flames to touch us, but we have to go through the experience to know HE got US!!  

 

Can I be honest with y’all? I haven’t always been all in for God! I haven’t always believed in His word! I haven’t always read His word! I would’ve never thought I would be this woman that is now speaking to you today! I had allowed the wrong people speak into my life and I believed what they said to be true and let me tell you it wasn’t anything good either! The enemy came at me early in life and he sent people my way to tear me down and break me down; each and every time that he got an opportunity! And you know what? I allowed it because I didn’t know who I was; and whose I was! I had allowed so much destruction and distractions in my life that pulled me so far away from any good that God tried to bring my way; I was so used to negativity I wouldn’t even recognize anything/anyone good if it slapped me upside my head! But God; when He wants to get your attention; He will stop at nothing! And I am so glad that He never stopped trying to reach me; it’s only because of Him and His love for me; that I am still here. 

 

It was at times a tug of war; God pulling me into the light and the enemy pulling me back into the darkness; but if you’re a follower and believer of God and HIS word then you should know; that  LOVE conquers all and God wasn’t giving up without a fight and guess what! The enemy had already been defeated; so, the battle was already won; I just had to grab hold of it and hold on for dear life and guess what I am never letting go and neither should you! No matter how it looks. No matter how it feels. Trust and Believe that GOD; is working it all out for your good!!

“Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, if you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted

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!

Father’s Day Inspired: #SpiritualSundays

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”. Romans 12:2 (NKJV)

Why do we continue to push things under the rug? Where are the perfect father’s? Does every boy/man that impregnates a woman stick around and take care of their full responsibility? Children don’t care about their parent being perfect; they just want your presence in their life!

Social media has allowed people to become more vocal about many things they know nothing about and don’t care to hear the other side of! Everyone has their say so and they don’t want to hear your opinion on it or care about your feelings! When did we become such an heartless society?

Every child in this world doesn’t have both parents that are physically/mentally/emotionally/financially in their lives! That’s a proven fact! When holidays roll around like Mother’s and Father’s Day people just assume that it’s all good and just want you to go with the flow; not going to happen.

It’s always fine to bash women and not the men; I never got this and probably never will. We are given a choice clearly; but, does anyone really make the right choice?

It’s no secret that men will sleep with anyone and when they do that; babies can/will be produced; is it the women’s fault? Should she be left to raise, protect, guide, discipline, comfort, nurture; etc all on her own? Is that biblical? Even Hagar got some assistance in the raising up of her child!

While there are many great father’s out there in this world! There are even more sperm donors who have skipped out on their responsibility of being a man/father and following what the Bible says in Ephesians 6:4 “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord”. (NIV)

Where in that scripture does it speak on women/mothers? Father’s are necessary and a requirement in their children’s’ lives!! But when there is a lack; women have no choice but to step in/step up and handle what they weren’t built for; but are willing and able to do!

Society has taking a stand on not allowing single mothers their due diligence even though they are a stand in to the absence of a male figure in their child(ren) lives! They are quick to tell individuals that give honor to single moms on a day designed for fathers; that it’s not for them to celebrate! But then fail to offer any ample solutions to aid them in what’s lacking in their son’s or daughter’s lives! How can you outwardly disregard something you obviously know nothing about; but show up to speak on?

No matter what the world says; children need both of their parents!! Women all over the world step into a role they clearly know nothing about; but have been placed in the position to figure it out as they go along. Yes, today was designed for the men who have followed the instructions from the book of Ephesians but can we not turn a blind eye to all the countless children growing up not ever knowing the love from their earthly father! Can you think on that for just a moment? Do you remember what the book of Corinthians says about love? 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 to be exact! They will never get this! Can you imagine not feeling the love of someone who aided in your being alive? Just think about that? What if God turned His back on you; how would you feel?

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted

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!

#KingdomGals: Speak Your Truth!

Who are you? Who are you becoming? Many of us women may be walking around still finding ourselves; not all of us have it completely together.

Now is that a bad thing? Not entirely! Are you working on your issues? See; none of us are perfect! But, we want to be working on becoming better! Right? Why do we want to stay stuck? Or boxed in? As women that are seeking a close relationship with God; we want to be transformed into the woman that can walk upright and become whole.

Becoming whole is knowing who we are in Christ and beginning to walk into it and stay focused on staying in close proximity.

In doing this; we will have to look within and begin to sort out past issues and work through each one. In working through our past issues; we are clearing our path into future happiness! Who wants to be happy and free from past trials and tribulations? Our future shouldn’t have to sustain our past; it’s time to clear the way for God to work! Give Him room to bless you!

The Bible is a great tool for us to begin/to read; so we can not only get encouragement, motivation, inspiration, empowerment, knowledge and understanding; but we will also gain insight into the foundation that has been laid out for us to follow!

There are endless stories for us as women to read such as Adam & Eve, Ruth, Naomi & Boaz, Lot’s wife, Sarah & Abraham, Hagar, Tamar, Mary & Joseph, Mary & Martha; etc.

These stories are going to give us insight into how we should/shouldn’t handle ourselves as wives, sisters, friends, mothers; etc. For instance, when we read about Eve, we find out that in order to be blessed and stay in right standing with God; we have to submit to our husbands! Don’t you think if Eve listened to the instructions of her husband/and obeyed God; she would’ve lived a much better life? Don’t you think they would’ve still been in the Garden of Eden?

We also want to surround ourselves with other like-minded women that are on similar paths! She needs to be working towards reaching the goal on becoming whole! Yes we can inspire others along the way but if you have those that are constantly pulling you down to their level; it’s time to part ways.

We all won’t be on the same level but you want to be able to still advance without distractions from those that should be cheering you on and pulling you up as they pull themselves up!

Can I be honest with you? I haven’t always had it all together! Everything that God has blessed me to be able to do; at first I didn’t want to do any of this! Tell my stories; share of my losses, admit I did things wrong, look within and tell of me being a fool for so long; etc. I can go on for days!

But guess what? I wanted more for my life! I wanted to be made whole and that required work from me! I had to look at all my past issues and failures and deal with each one! I had to allow God to begin a new work in me and allow Him to fix whatever was broken and then I had to be obedient to the call and assignments; He placed before me. Was it easy? Heck No! But guess what? It has all been worth it!

I am not the same person! I don’t ever want to be her again! I love the new me! The one that God created me to be; I just had to get in right standing with me and allow Him to pour into me.

This is my truth! What is yours?

“Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted

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!

#SpiritualSundays: Don’t Be Like This World..

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 (NIV)

We aren’t to act like the world! How they act isn’t how we (Christians) should act!! When we give our lives back to God; we are to become a new creation! You shouldn’t be acting or doing things your “old self” was doing. We aren’t perfect! Never will be; but you want to follow the example that has been clearly laid out in the Bible for all of us.

You want to carry yourself differently; if you are used to fighting and having constant strife with folks. That has to change! The Bible tells us to turn the other cheek! It tells us to forgive and be forgiven!! You can’t expect to receive from God if you aren’t following His lead! We are instructed time after time; to be obedient. How can you lead if you don’t know how to follow?

We have to show others the way! How can we accomplish that; if we are walking down the same path that they are? Doing the same things that they are? Speaking the same way they are? Living our lives the same way; that they are?

We can’t fold to the ways of this world!! Jesus came so that we can have life! And have it more abundantly! We should be walking like we know and receive that!! He came to take the place of us for our sins! We should be turning away from all we’ve been doing and living a more free life! Free from the snares of the enemy!! The attacks won’t cease; but the hold he has over you will be released! You can’t walk away from something/someone that you are still in partnership with!! Break Free and renew your mind! Your soul! Your spirit! Your body! Receive God’s will for your life and go forth and show others the way…

Scripture reference can be viewed on http://www.biblegateway.com

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted

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!

Finding Your Identity…..Who Are You? #SpiritualSundays

How many of us go through life not fully knowing who we are?

Some of you will think to yourself: I know who I am; but, do you really?

When you know who you are; you don’t allow others to mistreat you! You don’t allow others to abuse you! You don’t allow others to use you!

Many of us think we need others to confirm who we are. Then we will start to believe it for ourselves. Why can’t we simple just believe in ourselves? Why do we need another person’s validation? What happens when that person comes along and does more harm than good?

Many of us weren’t taught at an early age; who we were and what we should stand for. So many of us grew up lost and it continued into adulthood. When we had kids we still didn’t fully know who we were and we continued the cycle!

I’m constantly reminding myself of this scripture:

“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

As a parent, we should be continually speaking life into our kids! Praising them when they do good! Giving them high fives and fist bumps! If we don’t; who else will?

We even need to let them know when they are out of line! Just because they are doing something right; it doesn’t mean they won’t be wrong sometimes! Pull them aside and let them know; but in love! Don’t tear them down and don’t belittle them!

Did our parents miss these important steps in our growing up? Is this why so many adults are so out of focus? Is this why so many are walking around acting and sounding dysfunctional? And just don’t know who they are? Really know who they are? Society will suck you into their dysfunction and have you playing a role far from who God called you to be!

Who has God called you to be?

Have you figured it out yet?

Are you walking in your purpose or running away from it?

Written and published by Tamara McCarthy

©2019 Copyrighted

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!

#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:

  1. “a systematic series of actions directed to some end: to devise a process for homogenizing milk.

  2. 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

©2019 Copyrighted

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!