5 Ways to Handle Brokenness

2010 was starting off to be a Happy New Year until I dropped my 6 pound laptop on my baby toe the first weekend of January. As the sensation of pain enveloped my entire body, I blacked out for about 60 seconds and after regaining consciousness I went on about my day. However, after several weeks of enduring a painfully swollen baby toe, I decided to get an X-ray. One day later, the doctor called to confirm my worst nightmare—I had broken my toe. I wanted to cry because I had never broken a bone in my body & also because I had walked around for months enduring great pain because I thought that my toe, although swollen, would be okay.

The doctor informed me that the only thing that I could do would be to buy some surgical tape & for the next few weeks tape my baby toe to the toe next to it. I was also instructed to place a cold pack on my toe for 15 minutes at a time as often as possible. While I doctored on my toe for weeks, God began to reveal to me the issues that we struggle with regarding brokenness.

There are so many people going through life with broken hearts, broken spirits and so on. When brokenness goes undiagnosed or worse it’s ignored, the person endures months even years of unnecessary pain that may be inflicted onto other people. You’ve heard the saying, “Hurt people, hurt people” and it is so true because people suffering from brokenness are in fact hurting on the inside and then they consciously and sometimes unconsciously hurt other innocent people. Not only is this unhealthy but the person suffering from brokenness fails to see the importance of getting the help that they need out of fear, shame or guilt.

5 Ways To Deal With Brokenness

1. Seek professional help from certified/licensed counselors, therapists, ministers, etc. “Where there is no guidance, the people fall, but in abundance of counselors there is victory.” Proverbs 11:14

2. Connect yourself with someone who is stronger than you in faith, experiences, and humility and who will consistently encourage you and intercede for you on your journey. “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16 / “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17

3. Learn how to have cooling off periods—if you find yourself abusing others (physically, mentally, verbally, etc), then you need to dig deeper to discover yourself, the root of your hurt and find ways to exhibit more self-control. “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret - it leads only to evil.” Psalm 37:8

4. Understand and accept that your path to healing is not an overnight process. It won’t be easy but stay vigilant about fixing the broken areas that exist in your life. “Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness…”2 Peter 1:5-6

5. Envision yourself as a better person, a whole person with a loving heart, a happy spirit, and a positive attitude. Know that your future (relationships, success, dreams and goals, etc) looks better than your past. “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit dries the bones” Proverbs 17:22(KJV)

Brokenness is not a problem or issue too big for God. Surrender yourself to get the help that you need and take it one day at a time. I’ve had to make some major adjustments with my broken toe as it continues to heal but I have faith that in time it will be stronger and even better than before. Likewise, when the broken areas of your life become filled with peace, joy and contentment, you will also be stronger and even better than before!

Book References

Brokenness: The Heart God Revives by Nancy Leigh DeMoss
The Blessings of Brokenness by Charles Stanley
Healing for Damaged Emotions by David A. Seamands
Hope for Wholeness by Sharon L. Fawcett

So much has been given to us if we take the time to think about it. We’ve been given life, freedom and luxuries. The list could go on and on but we all have so much that we can be thankful for and now it’s time to turn the table and be generous. This year, I admonish you to be more generous with your time, your talents and your treasures.

We often tell people, “If you ever need anything let me know,” when what we really mean is “I hope that if you ever need me I’m able to help.” However, what a person who has experienced a sudden loss of a job, a loved one, a home, etc., needs most is consistency and simple generosity. If you’ve ever had to depend on someone else for a ride to work, gas money, to watch your children, or to even pray for you, then you know what it means for someone to keep their word (consistency) and you know the value of someone doing something for you out of the kindness of their heart (generosity). If you’ve never needed anyone just keep living, one day you will.

In John 15:12, Jesus reminds us of his commandment to love one another, as he loved us.
Jesus showed us a level of love that is incomprehensible in that he died on the cross for our sins before we were even born. “No one has greater love [no one has shown stronger affection] than to lay down (give up) his own life for his friends” John 15: 13. Jesus considered us to be his friends long before we were even born and he expects us to be selfless and generous to our family, friends and even strangers. "As I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples..." John 13:24.

TIME
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 reminds us that there is a time for everything. Be generous in the time that you give to God in reading the Word, worship and prayer. Be generous in the time that you give to your place of worship and make time to serve on a ministry team. Be generous in the time that you make for your family and for your friends. When you make time for others you plant seeds of prosperity, overflow and favor into your life. You need to also be generous in the time that you give yourself. You can’t be what you need to other people if you don’t take time for yourself.

TALENTS
You’ve been blessed with a talent to inspire, sing, encourage, dance and so on. If you are still trying to discover your purpose, draw from that thing that comes naturally to you. Whatever talent that you possess, you should be generous to share with others. If you have a talent to sing, but you aren’t a part of the Praise & Worship team, you might be missing out on an opportunity to change your life and someone else’s. If you have a heart for the homeless but you have never volunteered at a homeless shelter, then you may be missing your moment. Allow your talents to be a blessing to others. "A man's gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men" Proverbs 18:16.

TREASURES
God has blessed many of us with nice homes, cars, boats, clothes, and money. You are not required to give away everything that you work hard for but you are expected to be generous to those in need. Don’t be so attached to things that you refuse to make room for more blessings that are stored up in heaven for you. When you give to others more will be given to you and you’ll be connected to the destiny of the person that you help. You also position yourself for overflow so that you can continue to pour into others.

Be generous this year & “Be Encouraged. Be Grateful. Be Inspired.”

Spring Forward

Spring is right around the corner and what a great reminder of

what's to come in this new season of your life.

During the Spring months we can expect to feel March winds, to see rainbows after the April rain showers and marvel in the beauty of blooming May flowers. The heavy coats will get stowed away, hot beverages will be replaced with cool ones and the search will be on for the number to call the lawn guy. The transitions that take place as we move from the Winter season to the Spring season should remind us of the changes that need to occur in our personal lives.

Here are a few tips to help you to SPRING FORWARD in your life:

• Let the onset of Spring remind you of those New Year resolutions that you've put on the back burner. Dust those resolutions off and put them back into motion.
• Strive for growth in the areas of your life that need it most-finances, health, goals, etc.
• Renew your relationships and friendships that have gotten stale due to busyness, neglect, etc.
• Celebrate life by rejoicing with every sunrise and sunset.
• On those rainy days, be reminded that God wants to drench you with His love and He wants to bless you in time.

Scriptures for Spring:

"He is not here; for He is risen..." Matthew 28:6

"Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." John 16:22

"He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy." Job 8:21

"...that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love..." Ephesians 3:17

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6

"Therefore, I say to you: "All things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they shall be granted you." Mark 11:24

"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." Psalms 34:8

Why Tithe

Lord, thank you for all that you have blessed me with and by the way Lord I need_________, __________, and __________ (you fill in the blanks).

I bet many of you have had or heard prayers like that. We are programmed to believe that we can go to God for everything and He will bless us according to our needs. And believe me, it’s true! God will provide for your every need and even some of your wants if they line up with what God has for your life. But have you ever just stopped and asked, God what is it that I can bless you with or what can I do for you Lord? One of the simplest things you can do unto God is follow His word and be obedient. One way that I’ve learned to be obedient to God is through tithing. Simply put, tithing is giving God 10% of your increase. In my own words, tithing is giving God what is rightfully His without any questions, moans, groans, or I’ll get you on the next go around.

I remember when I was a young girl, I would take my loose change or the dollar my mother gave me and put it into the offering tray every Sunday. I would walk down the aisle and politely grace the church with my little dollar and walk back to my seat like I was doing something great because that was what I was taught. I saw church goers give an offering every Sunday but there was never a call by the pastor to bring tithes. That soon changed when I visited what is now my current church home. Over the past several years, I have learned that the first level of tithing is the action of developing a foundation of giving. One would think that I had a strong foundation since I gave my dollar every Sunday. As I grew in Christ, however, I realized that giving was just the start. The ultimate root of tithing was obedience unto God and to trust God with all you have.

Many people often state that they don’t understand the concept of tithing; therefore I offer this very simple explanation. For every dollar you earn set aside 10 cents for God. People often use the same excuse of not being able to trust the pastor or other members of the church to use the tithes wisely. My answer to that excuse is always the same, why worry about how the money is being used but rather trust God to fulfill His plans for your tithe. Those that misuse God’s tithe will have to give account for their actions and so will those who continue to willfully rob God through not paying tithes. Remember that the Bible states in Malachi 3:8 that “Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, how do we rob you? In tithes and offerings.” Therefore reside in the fact that when you pay your tithes God sees you as worthy enough to receive a continual pouring of blessings that you won’t have room to receive.

We take a chance on much riskier things in life such as the stock market, the lottery, and get rich quick schemes, so why not take a chance on a God that has plans to prosper you and not harm you. God that doesn’t have to worry about how the economy is doing, or whether He picked the right Powerball number, but rather God can do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we could ever ask or think. God never charges you a transaction fee for conducting business on your behalf. I’ve come to the realization that no matter what the bank statement says I have in my account, I know through obedience my needs are met because of the deposit that I made in heaven. A withdrawal slip is never necessary because of my obedience to God and knowing in my heart and my mind that He will provide my every need. Nevertheless, remember you have to make a deposit in order to make a withdrawal.

Many people choose to overlook tithing by making the argument that tithing is of the Old Testament and not of the New Testament. My argument, however, is neither for the old or the new, but simply that God gave us the Bible to learn about Him and as a guide for life, therefore if it’s in the Bible then He must have thought it was important enough for it to be there. Therefore, we should avoid picking and choosing what we want to take from the Bible and live by, but choose to believe it in its entirety. I am not sure about you but I want all the blessings that God has for me. If tithing is one way to get more blessings than I have room enough to receive, I constantly say God here is all of me and a blank check, Lord you fill it in.

More Scriptures On Tithing:

“And now, behold, I have brought the first fruits of the land, which thou, O Lord, hast given me. And thou shalt set it before the Lord thy God, and worship before the Lord they God.” Deuteronomy 26:10

“Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10

“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:21

*Stephanie Perry Johnson is a Senior Financial Analyst for FedEx and Contributing Writer for DIVINE Magazine.

A Plethora of Provision

When we think of God providing for us, we often limit our thinking to the financial aspect. However, God provides for us in a number of ways and the extent to which He provides for His children is incomprehensible. Let's take a look at a few ways:

Relational

In relationships, when the person that you've invested time and energy with turns out to be someone that is not right for your destiny, God provides a way out and He provides a second chance to meet the person who you were truly intended for and who was truly intended for you. In friendships, when seasons change and friends move out of our lives or their roles change in our lives, God provides us with new friends to fill the void or those who have been there all along step up. God provides us with parents and guardians, husbands, wives, children, pastors, educators, advisors, mentors and so on. "God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19) Even in relationships, God makes the necessary provisions to mold us into the men and women that we are to become.

Health

When we neglect our temples, we are indeed destroying the bodies that God has entrusted to us. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us "You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." As many times as you've dealt with minor sickness like allergies, common colds, etc., God has provided you with doctors of varying expertise who instruct you how to care for your bodies, nutritionists who encourage you to eat correctly, and exercise coaches/personal trainers who show you how to properly exercise. God has even made provisions for your mental well-being by equipping psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors and life coaches to help you to cope with life in a more balanced way. Pastors, prayer partners, preachers and teachers all provide you with guidance to optimum spiritual health. Everything that we need for healthy minds, bodies and spirits has been provided to us by our Lord & Savior.

Strength
When life seems too hard, God provides us with supernatural strength to endure. We experience death, financial setbacks, health issues, challenging projects and tasks, dysfunctional relationships, and the results of poor choices. However, God knows how much we can bear and he gives us what we need right when we need it. God also gives us a way of escape when we are tempted to succomb to choices that make us weak or that make life much more difficult to handle. I Corinthians 10:13 ensures us that "no temptation (or trial) has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted (or tried) beyond what you are able, but with the temptation (or trial) will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it." God provides us with strength and ways to escape the things that can harm us.

Financial
In these economic times, it is certainly important to acknowledge that God provides for us financially. From our jobs to our modes of transportation, we have everything that we need. We may not have everything that we want, but if we are able to make ends meet even 80% of the time, then we are farther along than most. Many of us have had to sacrifice higher paying jobs, vacations, simple luxuries and so on in order to survive. However, just as Abraham was willing to sacrifice his own flesh and blood and God provided for him, we have access to the same God, the same generous Provider. "And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah-jireh. As it is said to this day, In the mount of Jehovah it shall be provided." (Genesis 12:14).

As long as we remember to acknowledge God for the plethora of provision that He bestows upon us, then we can make it through any storm. If we are always reflecting on how far we've come and how God has provided for us before then we can have genuine confidence that He will do the same again and again. Even when life doesn't unfold as we expect it to, we have a Jehovah-Jireh watching and waiting to provide a ram in the bush and things will unfold exactly how God intends them to unfold.

The Value of Support

Support can be defined as bearing the weight of, providing aid or strength, defending, or providing a foundation. Those definitions would probably describe some of the nurturing relationships that exist with various people in your life. There aren't too many things that are more valuable than having a great support system. Christ reminds us in John 15:12-13 to love each other as He loved us. "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

Here are a few examples of support:

• You've been laid off your job and now you depend on others for financial support.
• Your neighbor needs her grass cut and you offer to help her out for free.
• You've started a new business and now a mentor provides you with moral support.
• The nursing home down the street needs volunteers and you gladly sign up.
• Death creeps into your family and you're immediately surrounded with love & unconditional support.
• Your place of worship & its leaders help you to grow spiritually and in return you begin to serve with different ministries to provide several levels of support.
• Being a parent is much easier with the support of a spouse, grandparents, etc.
• It's your freshmen year in college and you are adopted by a junior studying the same major and they offer to show you the ropes.
• You've taken sick and you are trusting a team of doctors and nurse to provide you with all the care and support that you need.
• You join a local cause to help save a country destroyed by a recent tragedy.
  

Willingness to provide some level of support to others should be a part of your DNA. If you're normally the one on the receiving end, start thinking of ways that you can sow into others. It doesn't have to be anything major you can actually start off taking tiny steps. Before long you will be so caught up in helping and loving on others that it won't seem like a chore but something that you adore.

On the other end of the spectrum is being open to receive support. If you've experienced a hardship in life or entered a phase in life where you seem to be faced with a plethora of unanswered questions, don't be too ashamed to reach out to others for help. God gives some people the gift of giving and they are fulfilling their purpose in life when they are allowed the privilege to bless you. Of course, someone providing support shouldn't be abused or confused but honored, respected and appreciated. When you've experienced someone who will sow into you with no strings attached, it will ignite a fire in you to keep the circle of love and support going.

Being supportive is contagious! It works both ways and adds great value to everyone's life.

Trying to Understand Death

Experiencing death whether it affects you personally or it affects a close friend is not easy. Even watching the news and hearing of tragedy occurring with people that you don't know can be unsettling. Death can sometimes leave us wondering why? It's easy to tell someone that their loved one has gone on to a better place or that we all have to go one day, but accepting this is not as easy as it sounds.

So what is the best way to cope with death or to at least understand death? Seeking counseling and focusing on that person's legacy can certainly bring healing and understanding. It can also be helpful to look at the life span of a seed. Before a seed can blossom into a beautiful flower or bear tasty, delicious fruit it in fact has to die first. In John 12:24 Jesus reminded Phillip and Andrew that "...Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."

So how does thinking about a seed falling to the ground help? All of our loved ones, friends, or even celebrities who we connect with have shared a part of themselves with us in some shape, form or fashion. Consider them a seed that has/had beautiful, vibrant life within. Each person, no matter how young or old, represents seeds of wisdom, humor, service, joy, kindness, protection and so on. **Pause a minute and think of the kind of seeds that the people in your life (living or deceased) represent.** As you stay close to (nurture/love) that seed and observe its many characteristics or principles that you can apply to different areas of your life, you are helping the seed to fulfill its purpose. However, in order for the seed to reach its full potential, it must die.

As hard as it may be to accept the death of a loved one, it's vital to think of them as having represented a seed in your life. You are in full blossom or headed in that direction because of those who came before you. All of our loved ones who have passed away have completed their cycle of life which enables us as their seedlings to bear the fruit that they instilled in us. Believe it or not, you are also responsible for planting seeds into the lives of others.

Find comfort in knowing that you have what it takes to carry on the legacy of those that you mourn. The grieving process is just that--a process, so take the time and the necessary steps to come to terms with losing the people that were special to you. In time, make sure to place yourself in an environment that is conducive to your continuous growth so that you can blossom as expected. Even when you experience setbacks--dry seasons, excessive amounts of water (tears), pruning, malnourishment (family/friend issues), or slow growth--remember that you are important and your survival is key to those who will learn from you.

Helpful Hint***Visit your favorite local nursery and find seeds of a flower, etc., that you can plant and watch grow to commemorate your loved one and to remind you to stay focused and to become everything you are destined to become.

Share your comments on how you've coped with the loss of a loved one.

Just Like New

I hope 2010 is off to a great start for you. I'm sure you've thought about all the ways that you plan to make this year better than 2009. Some of you have chosen not to make New Year's Resolutions but to instead strive each day to become better and better. Whatever your approach to the new year, know that God has already ordered your steps and He's just waiting for you to get on the right path. If you started in 2009 planting seeds for what you want to see take place in 2010, God just wants you to remain faithful. No matter what you set out to do, I'm sure you'll be a better, wiser person that's just like new! Let your past be your past and know that your future is bright.

Have a Great 2010 & Set Realistic Goals!

Three Areas To Consider Focusing On & A Few Examples to Consider:

Mind (Education, Read More, Financial Peace, Learn A Trade...)

Body (Exercise, Skincare, Healthy Eating, Wellness...)

Spirit (Meditate, Study God's Word, Develop Prayer Life...)

Feel free to Comment & Share Your Goals for 2010.
Also Share Useful Website/Online Communities That Other Readers Could Utilize

2009: The Year of DIVINE...2010: The Year of DIVINE ORDER

2009 was truly the Year of DIVINE. We were privileged to do a plethora of new things--launching new events, being a part of the biggest award shows in the Christian/Gospel industry, traveling to Africa on a life-changing Mission Trip, getting connected in CyberWorld, inspiring hundreds of people to greatness & so much more! In 2010, we're expecting even more explosive things to happen and believe that it will be like DIVINE Dynamite all year long!!!

At the start of 2009 and during his Inaugural speech, President Barack Obama stated “we the people have remained faithful” and “the challenges we face are real, but they will be met.” He reminded us that now “our spirit is stronger and that we will not be broken.” However, our destiny depends on us embracing “the knowledge that God calls on us to accept” and that it will take the “faith and determination of the American people” to survive the tough times.

We have a strenuous road ahead in 2010 but we will remain faithful to what we know works to survive. Those ingredients include trusting God, being firmly planted in our places of worship, protecting our communities and creating a safe and progressive environment for our children--our leaders of tomorrow.

As we prepare for 2010 let's take a moment to recap on DIVINE Magazine's 2009 Highlights :

Stellar Awards
My staff and I had the privilege to cover the Stellar Awards and rub elbows with legendary gospel artists. (Scroll Down For Pics)

DOVE Awards We took part in covering the biggest award show in the Christian arena at The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN. (Scroll Down For Pics)

BEAUTY SESSIONS/FELLAS NIGHT OUT EVENTS
We also launched two exciting events that are scheduled throughout the entire year: BEAUTY SESSIONS, an event for ladies and FELLAS NIGHT OUT, an event for men. Both events were great successes and brought the realization that gathering in God’s name and doing life together are extremely important. Click Here To View Pics!

MISSION TRIP TO AFRICA
I also had the privilege to travel on a mission trip to Africa to share the message of Jesus and love on children at Care Points. I also kept a journal while I was on my 10 day journey and shared it in the Fall 2009 Issue of DIVINE (click here to view) to encourage others to go on a mission trip or sow into others who desire to go out as missionaries.

CYBERWORLD CONNECTIONS
We have also tapped into the cyber world to increase our Internet presence by joining Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, & creating THIS BLOG. We also distribute an electronic newsletter to hundreds of readers entitled Bringing You Everything Inspirational to provide information about the positive events that are taking place around the city and beyond. The e-newsletter is also a great opportunity for business owners to spread the word about their services and connect with potential customers. (To receive DIVINE Magazine's weekly e-newsletter email us). We also launched DIVINE Digital to allow more people to be impacted by our publication and went from reaching 1,500 people to a total of 5,000 people by making the magazine available in a print and digital format. We plan to double that number in 2010.

PARTNERSHIPS We partnered with so many awesome organizations this year including the Reggie Howard Foundation, Naked Truth Singles Conference, Annual Sickle Cell Walk, Hagar's Ministry For Single Mothers, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Paradigm Dental Center, Norfleet Entertainment, Kingdom Alliance Entertainment, R.J. Groove Kingdom Party, Light Records, PKP Agency, JoVenTosh Couture, Judy Jacobs & The International Institute of Mentoring and a number of churches & ministries!

ADVERTISERS & SPONSORS DIVINE could not be where it is without the support of its Advertisers & Sponsors!
You know who you are and we appreciate all that you do & by sowing into DIVINE you are sowing right back into your business/ministry. May you, your family and your business/ministry experience extreme overflow and favor always.

READERS & SUPPORTERS Without your support our purpose of inspiring men & women to greatness would be null & void. Thank you for being with us for 3 years and for growing with us. We aim to produce a publication that gets better & better with each issue and to create as many ways as possible to keep you connected and motivated in life to do what you're purposed to do! Thanks again for motivating us & letting us know that you like what we do!!! Words can't express the appreciation.

In closing, I am elated with the concept of change and what's to come in 2010. I hope that DIVINE has been a blessing to you in 2009 and that you will continue to support us in 2010 as we move forward in inspiring men and women to walk in their purpose.

Remember Be Encouraged, Be Grateful, Be Inspired!

DIVINE Magazine Publisher

What Wonderful Child Is This

There are so many elements of Jesus’ birth that I would love to capture. The star that shone so bright, the three wise men that came as witnesses, the pregnancy of the virgin Mary, the fact that there was no room at the inn or that our Lord and Savior Jesus was born in a stable. The list could go on, however, the common thread would be the need to take notice and celebrate that miraculous occasion. Every event which led up to Jesus’ birth represented an even greater purpose in the end. Every person involved in Jesus’ birth was an ordinary person who became a part of something extraordinary.

It is so important to understand how mysteriously God can work. Sometimes, it may seem that life is moving slowly, that our chaotic workplace will never subside, that our children will never straighten up and fly right, that our spouses will always make things difficult, that school will always be a struggle, that there will always be more bills than paycheck. However, there is a light at the end of the road. That light this holiday season is that star that was shining so bright. It is the same light that led the three wise men who had never seen or met Jesus to travel to be by his side. The wise men came prepared with gifts expecting to find something worth celebrating. Speaking of expecting, the virgin Mary was given the honor of carrying Jesus in her womb. She was required by God that is, to accept her role at a young age and had to endure an awkward situation throughout her pregnancy. Even the mother of Jesus had to endure trials and tribulations.

There is a great message that should be our focus this holiday season: in every situation we face, God knows what’s best even if it seems uncomfortable for a time. Philippians 4:6 says “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. As we go into the New Year, we must continue to exhibit patience and trust God to move in our lives. Whether it is a desire to be married, steps on how to lead a spouse to Christ, whether to go back to school, or how to get out of debt, God wants us to make our requests known and then prayerfully wait for Him instead of trying to fix things on our own.

Have A Merry Christmas! Jesus is the Reason For The Season!!!

10 Reasons Why You Might Be Single

If you are single you are probably use to being bombarded with the classic question: "Why are you still single?" or "When are you going to get married?" Lately, you have even started to question this idea and ponder whether or not you should be considering a serious relationship. There are plenty of reasons why you are still single and it's about time that you start facing the facts.

Here Are The 10 Reasons Why You Might Be Single:

1. God has you in your preparation stage.
2. It’s just not your season to be in a relationship.
3. God is still working on you.
4. God is still working on that special someone.
5. You don’t need any distractions right now.
6. You need to learn to balance life (professional, personal, etc.).
7. It’s your opportunity to travel, start a book club, learn a new trade, etc.
8. You can be an example to someone else.
9. The singles ministry and other ministries need you.
10. You need to learn to be truly happy with yourself.

Any Questions? Pray About It & Accept The Season That You're In.

***Study these Single Men & Women from Biblical Times:

• Daniel
• Jesus
• Shadrach
• Paul
• Meshach
• John the Baptist
• Obednego
• Philip's four daughters
• Elijah
• Elisha
• Jeremiah

Also read "They Were Single Too: 8 Biblical Role Models" By David M. Hoffeditz

Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Missionary?

We journey through most of our lives trying to figure out how we can make ourselves look better, feel better or be better. Few people in life can say they eat, sleep and breathe to help others. However, the truth is none of the things that we do for ourselves matter. It’s what we do for others and ultimately what we do for Christ that’s important. I’m sure you’ve heard the old hymn titled, “Only What You Do for Christ Will Last” and in that song there’s a verse that says, “Soon the glories of this life will all be past, but only what you do for Christ will last.” Challenge yourself to do things that will last and it will be no surprise that it will involve serving other people.

Local Impact
Local ministries are very important to the growth and the stability of communities. After a storm hits a community or tragedy strikes, it is the local churches, ministries and organizations that help families rebuild their lives. Local ministries provide light and a beacon of hope to local citizens. Volunteers are always needed to carry the torch. If you’re looking for ways to make a local impact, get involved with ministries like Angel Food, American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, prison ministries, hospital ministries, nursing home ministries and college ministries. Connect with your place of worship or perform an on-line search for ministries in your community and get involved.

Global Impact
Going on a mission trip can be the ultimate step in impacting nations. Taking a mission trip to places like Uganda, Brazil, New Guinea, Israel, China and beyond can be a life changing event for you and the lives of the people that you touch. When the natives see missionaries, it is a testament to them that Jesus cares enough about them to send people from miles away to love, care for and spend time with them.

Ways to Get Started

Here are some links to a few organizations to get involved both locally and globally:

Local Impact:

http://www.angelfoodministries.com/

http://www.habitat.org/

http://www.redcross.org/

http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/

Global Impact:

http://www.goglobalmissions.com/

http://preparingtogo.com/

http://thriveafrica.org/

http://gregandkristinevans.com/

10 Day Challenge To Serve

Missionary Archives

Continuation from DIVINE Magazine's Article "10 Day Challenge To Serve" Fall 2009 Issue

For a complete Digital Copy of the Fall 2009 Issue email divinemagazine@gmail.com

Nancy Clary

Church/Affiliated Ministry: Healing Place Church, Baton Rouge, LA Epic Student Ministries

Last year in 2008 I had the chance to make my first trip to Swaziland, Africa with HPC and Go Global Ministries. We had the chance to serve Healing Place Swaziland and Children’s Cup ministries and community outreach at local schools with basketball clinics. The experience was life changing for me. I second guessed myself and God before I went. Why me? Why here? Why now? Am I too old? (48) I am just an average Christian with simple faith…not a special teacher, preacher or the like. However, that was just the voice of the accuser trying to impede my path. That trip forged relationships with people that will last a lifetime.

I did have the chance to return this year and reunite with many friends from last year. I was reminded that the African people have so little, yet they give so much of themselves to you. I was changed by seeing the amazing faith of a people so impoverished and oppressed. It was amazing to me that they see so many teams each year, yet they remembered me. Surely that is God’s way of letting me know that it was His will for me and that it did make an impact on them.
I believe that I love even more deeply and unhindered since my two trips. I am taking greater risks to walk in all that God has for me and I am more willing to do things that seem so out of my reach and/or comfort zone. My advice is don’t miss the chance to know our God more intimate and love others more deeply. Don’t miss the chance to see how much of our lives are spent thinking about ourselves and don’t ever think that you are too old or ill equipped…..just go. My life with God is now summed up by this statement: The answer is yes Lord, what is your question.

I had heard that said, but to have it happen to you is different. My heart holds faces and lives that I may never see again and I am forever changed by them. I pray that in some way the role I played on that trip will help their life a bit.


Kyle Beckwith

Church/Affiliated Ministry: Go Global Missions at The Life Church of Memphis

My mission trip to Swaziland, Africa has made a tremendous impact on my ministry as a musician and a minister of the gospel. I believe that my ministries are way more inclusive and practical instead of stylistically focused. God showed me that the same issues we have locally are somewhat the same issues that we have globally. Obviously, some are worse than others. However, the message has to be the same across the board and the message has to be supported by works not just a good sermon or song. The message is that Jesus Christ is alive and wants to live in us and will change our life forever if we allow him. The work is seemingly infinite and eternal and it involves stepping out of our comfort zone for the purpose of Christ, which is ultimately the salvation of his people (physically, mentally, and spiritually). I think that I have impacted the mind and the hearts of my family and friends by igniting their curiosity, as well as the possibility of them stepping out on faith to either go on a mission trip or at least be in greater support of those who do decide to go.



Kassie Perritt

Church/Affiliated Ministry: Go Global Missions at The Life Church of Memphis

For the past 3 summers I have gone on short-term mission trips to Africa. All trips were mainly to Swaziland, but I also had the opportunity to visit Nairobi, Kenya and Durban, South Africa. The very first trip changed my life and gave me a heart for Africa. I am currently applying for a one year overseas internship through Go Global. Every time I am there I don't really feel homesick. I love being there. It's quite an indescribable feeling that I don't know how to explain other than it simply being a God thing. I want to reach His people and share His love with those who don't know it.

To the read the entire "10 Day Challenge To Serve" article, request a FREE Digital Copy of the Fall 2009 Issue of DIVINE Magazine by emailing divinemagazine@gmail.com

Social Networks or Your Soul?

Social Networks like Facebook, Myspace, Virb, Twitter, BlackPlanet, Ning, LinkedIn, Blogspot, Friendster, Tagged, and hundreds more have taken over many people's lives. I admit that I love staying connected to friends and family through social networks but I also notice the negative aspects of them as well. I encourage everyone who use social networks to do so with caution. Don't lose your soul to a Social Network!

Distractions

Social Networks can take all of your time if you're not careful. Set a time limit and don't go past your allotted time to chat with friends and family,etc. If you can no longer seem to focus on spending time in the Word of God, striving toward your career goals, taking care of your family and other responsibilities or you find yourself constantly checking your phone for updates, then you may need to evaluate where your priorities lie.

Unusual Connections

You may be connected with people through social networks who have a warped sense of life and who bombard you and your thoughts with their opinions. Guard your heart against things that you know are not of God. Be on guard against evil influences and by people who are not on the same path as you. You should be an example to other people who are lost and confused about life. Matthew 5:16 says "...let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Be the light in the dark places and even on social networks.

Be Careful Little Eyes

Many social networks can lead to developing dangerous relationships with strangers and even open a door to other serious issues. Be careful with exchanging photos, checking out links to third party websites and going into chat rooms that have questionable atmospheres.

All In Fun

Social networks are designed to be fun and to provide a network or platform to socialize. It was never meant to turn into a place for men and women to act unbecoming to themselves or one another. I encourage you to be mindful of your usage or over usage of Social Networks. Anything that takes you away from your relationship with God, serving others and fulfilling your purpose is not something that should be a priority in your life. So choose your Soul over a Social Network every time!