For the next several months or so I will  focus on the topic of transformation- not just for the purpose of providing information, but for the purpose of providing information and encouragement that will produce the positive and lasting changes that we need in our lives in order for us to be who God created us to be and do what He called us to do.  It’s time.  Can’t you feel it?  Isn’t there something stirring on the inside of you that is compelling you to change?   Isn’t there something more you are supposed to do in life or get out of life that you know you cannot obtain at your current status of life. 

We are often afraid of change because many times we don’t think we can actually change or maintain the change-so why try?  In addition, we often don’t know how to change.  In order to produce lasting changes in our lives, there has to be a shift in our thinking.  That’s right, our minds have to change. “Wendy, are you turning into a Life Coach?” Listen, we have to encourage each other.  We have to keep each other accountable for living our best lives and for helping others to live theirs.    We all have lessons to learn as well as lesson to teach.  I am looking to impart as well as receive.

I know there are still areas in my life that need transforming.  You want me to write you a list? I’m ready for it.  I know it won’t be easy but I’m ready for it. What about you?  What does transformation look like to you?  Let’s talk about it.  Where do you need help?  Where do you know you are supposed to be but are unsure if you can make it there? Add some comments and questions  to the articles. Let’s have some real talk.   Maybe will even do another blogtalk radio program.

Listen, I am a firm believer that you already have access to everything you need to produce positive and lasting changes in your life.  God has given you everything you need to accomplish everything He has put on the inside of you to do. You just have to believe it, know how to access it, and have the courage to step out in it. There is a world out there that is waiting for you to impact it.  You have the ability to make a positive impact in lives of people. Do it. Start with your own first! 

If you who are gifted in the area of personal change and transformation, please email me at ready2transform@aol.com.  I may want to feature you and your information or articles here on Higher Heights.  Let’s give people some real information that will help transform their lives.

I’m also looking for anyone’s personal stories concerning your personal need for change or your struggle to obtain change as well as personal testimonies about transformation.  

So here is my challenge:  I want to challenge you to step into your season of change.  Don’t just wish for it or dream about it.  Own it!  Embrace it!  Live it!  Its your time!

Stay encourage and lets walk in extraordinary times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

http://beautycomeforth.com

This is just a short post to remind those of you who are carefully attending to the things that you need to attend to and yet have not  moved ahead for one reason or another… It’s your time now.  To those who have come up against bullies or negative people who havedone all they could to swash your gift, undermine your value, or exclude your presence… It’s your time now.  To those who refused to get bitter, for those who continued to saturate themselves in God’s presence, for those who waited out the darkness believing morning to come… Good morning.  It’s your time now.

Others may have discounted you but let me tell you, you are one of God’s best kept secrets that is getting ready to be revealed.  There is nothing nor any one that can prevent your unveiling. You have been subtly distanced from the crowd in order to hear God’s heart and gain your definition from Him instead of from man.  You don’t look to people to validate you therefore you are free to walk in the purpose and  plan of God.  Yes, others will be shocked and may even whisper against you, but your heart is fixed (Psalm 108) because you know who your God is and you know who you are in Him. In spite of all you have been through, you stayed close to the heart of God and now you have been called to do great exploits. People are about to be astonished as they witness God in you.

It’s your time now to awaken to the beauty of your dreams.  It’s your time to arise to the occassion that God has set before you. It’s time to walk in God’s greatness, knowing that what is getting ready to occur is not all about you but it’s about God- His plan and His purpose!  You have been called for and others won’t even be able to sit down and eat until you arrive.  There is a mandate upon your life.  You must release what God has given you to release. God is about to show up in a great way and you must be there to represent Him.  You must be there to speak to the fall of the giants in the land.  You must be there to declare the goodness, the greatness, and the victory of the Lord to all nations.  You must stand as a symbol of courage and influence.  Now is the time.  Awaken, arise, shake the dust off, put on strength, break forth into joy, and don’t fear the giants (Is. 52). Understand that the Lord has anointed you mightily.  Yes, God has already equipped you with everything you need to do what He has called you to do.  What are you waiting for?  We are waiting.

 Wendy M. Reynolds

As I  spent time reflecting upon the resurrection, I experienced different emotions. I am so thankful for what Christ did. Words simply cannot explain the sacrifices He made. His death and resurrection is the foundation of our faith. As I reflected this weekend, I found my heart heavy. This should be a time of celebration and thanksgiving so why is my heart heavy? I thought about all the pain and suffering Christ went through. I thought about how He took upon Himself  all of our sins, illnesses, and penalties so that we can be brought back into fellowship with God. He brought us life… life more abundantly.  Amazing! I thought about the power that resurrected Him. That same power that resurrected Christ was made available to us as well (read Romans chapters 6-8, Eph. 2) but so many of us remain unresurrected. Our lives should be full of life. We should be blessing and overflowing unto others. We should be living our dreams yet so many of our dreams remain buried. We have just allowed them to die within us.

I feel this urgency within to tell everyone that I know to dream again. I know things are tough, the economy is down, high school drop-out rates are through the roof, and we are saturated with bad news. However, we cannot allow those things and the other cares of this world to choke out our God-given dreams. We can’t be afraid to dream.

The enemy is working hard to rob us and our children of our dreams. I spoke with a young mother who said she is afraid to tell her kids to have a dream. “It’ll just give them heartbreak. Don’t you see what this world is like. It’ll crush ‘em. Better to not have a dream, then to have one and get it crushed. There’s no hope out there. They’ll be good to get a job.”  Uugh!  What a sad attitude. Don’t get me wrong, I understand why she has it but listen, it is our God inspired dreams that  God will use to help change things and create opportunities that don’t exist yet. What happens if we lose our passion to dream and our beliefs is our dreams? What happens when we don’t encourage our children to dream? It is our God inspired dreams that will inspires hope and change in the world!

Joseph was a dreamer (read Genesis 37). He was hated for his dream. His own brothers wanted him dead. However, it was his God given dreams and his ability to believe in them that saved his family and a whole nation. We can no longer be afraid to dream. We have nations to save. I don’t care what race you are or how young or how old you are, don’t give up on your dream.

What is your dream? Look deep into the hidden corners of you heart. What have you given up on? What are you afraid will never come to pass? What is tugging at you that you keep ignoring? What have you been talked out of? What have you been robbed of?  What have you stop believing in? Is it to have a family?  Is it to own multiple businesses and provide jobs for thousands of people? Is it to help kids?  Is it to be a missionary? Is it to help rebuild a torn down city?  Is your dream to become a Pastor? Do you want to be a doctor? Do you want to help people transform their health and their lives? Do you want to build rockets? Do you want to rebuild the school system? Is it to write books? Is it to speak before thousands of people in order to encourage them? Do you want to sing? Do you want to write songs that make the whole world sing? Do you have an idea that will change the world? Do you want to be the President?   Do you want to create foundations that will fund life changing causes? What is it? I dare you to dream. Even if you have tried and seemingly been unsuccessful before, dream again. Don’t let fear keep you from stepping out. Don’t settle for life as usual.  You DO have what it takes to accomplish your dreams! Don’t believe the lie that says you don’t!! Let me state that one more time. Don’t believe the lie that says you don’t have what it takes to accomplish your dreams! God has put inside of you everything you need to do accomplish everything He has called you to do!!  The real problem is we find it easier to believe God for everyone else but ourselves. It is now time to believe that God will fulfill your dreams as well!

Allow the Spirit of God to resurrect your dream. Take the limits off of God and off of yourself.  Don’t be halted by the haters? Don’t be stopped by criticism or doubt.  Don’t be ruled by fear. Don’t give up because the last time didn’t work out. Get your dream back. Fight for it! Know that you were created to change the world. You were created for greatness! You had better know it. Remember that you have a God who is able to do exceeding abundantly, above all that you can ask or think.  I dare you to know who your God is. For those who know their God shall be strong. Those who know their God shall do great exploits (Read Daniel 11:32). Dream. Do great exploits. The world needs what you have on the inside of you. Your God inspired dreams will change your world. Let God resurrect and fulfill your dreams! It is time. Are you ready?

Just some thoughts off the top of my head today. Be encouraged, stay in God’s presence, and walk in extraordinary times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

http://beautycomeforth.com

“Hello All, Ok, I’m giving you a little notice: Tomorrow, March 4th is my New International Holiday. To celebrate, TOMORROW (not today, unless you can’t sign on tomorrow), under my established status, please leave a comment stating what you are doing to March forth (March 4th)! 

We have all faced transitions, challenges, storms, tough times, good times… Share with us what you are doing to March forth (4th), what inspires you to March forth (4th), and what are you Marching forth (4th) towards!! Let’s do it and lets encourage each other on this journey! For those who will steal… I mean “borrow” my ideal, it’s all good, let’s keep it going, BUT, you have to leave a comment on my page, otherwise the guilt will get to ya!”

So today (or this week, or this month… ) I want to challenge you to think about what inspires you to continually “March 4th” through all the transitions of life that we deal with. Share with someone else what enables you and inspires you to “March 4th.”  Ask them the question and then actually listen to them. Somebody needs to hear it.  Somebody needs to hear your story. Someone is considering giving up on life. People are hurting. They don’t think they can take another step. You have the ability, the opportunity, and the mandate to encourage them to keep Marching 4th!

I encourage you today, no matter where you are, no matter what you are going through, or how difficult life may seem, don’t give up. Keep trusting God. Keep reaching out. Keep putting one foot in front of the other. “Wendy, it’s too hard, you don’t know what I’m going through!” I may not know, but you can make it! Let me tell you how I’m making it!  ”Wendy, no one understands!” Yeah, but God does. You can make it. Keep marching 4th!  ”Wendy, I feel like I’m dying inside!” I know, but you’ll make it! Keeping marching. Keep moving! I’m here for you! Our situations may be different, but we’ve all felt that way at one time or another.  ”All I see is darkness.” I know, but God speaks in the dark and causes light to emerge. His word will light your path. You cannot quit. You’ve come too far to quit! Quitting is not an option. 

The enemy wants you to quit and give up on you and on God.  Here me today, whoever I am talking (writing) to, quitting is not optional! You’ll make it!” God has had a plan for your life since the begining of time  (Jeremiah 29:11). You have to keep believing, keep seeking Him, and don’t get out of the press. Be like the woman with the issue of blood who knew that if she could just keep pressing and touch the hem of Jesus’ clothing, she’d be well ((Mat 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-47).

I leave you with the personal comment I left on Facebook regarding my March 4th:

“This particular season of my life has been one of the most challenging. I “March 4th” and continue to march 4th by recognizing who is actually in control- by realizing that man has no control over my destiny- that God had a plan for my life from the beginning of time- by recognizing that HE alone defines me!

I had to “March 4″ because the place I was in and am marching out of was not my promised place. Knowing that, I march forth into a place that is limitless, where whenever I arrive, others can come in contact with, be introduced to, be inspired by, and accept Jesus Christ.

I march 4th to a place where I can connect with like minded, God centered people, and together, not only make a difference, but help change lives and the world around me.

I have encountered many obstacles that tried to get me to stop marching forth- and guess what, sometimes I wanted to quit, because it seemed as if the way was too hard, the journey too long…but stopping, quitting is not optional! It never has been and never will be, therefore, I must March 4th, knowing that God’s word will light my pathway as I march. I must “March 4th” and I encourage you to do the same! March 4th.”

Stay encouraged and in God’s presence! We are walking in extraordinary times, therefore, “March forth (4th)!

Wendy M. Reynolds.

Stay encouraged and in God’s presence as we walk in extraordinary times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

© By Wendy M. Reynolds

“Allow only God to define who you are (He is the only one who knows you from your start to your finish). If you allow other people and other things to define you, you may never know who you really are.”

“Never allow the mistakes or accomplishments of your past to hinder your future accomplishments (The past is in the past.  It is good to look back and reflect on it and learn from it but never was it meant for you to live in it!)!”

“Take out the time to be good to yourself.  Treat yourself better than anyone else could possibly treat you.  By loving yourself and by treating yourself good, you set the standard for how other people will treat you.  You will not permit others to mistreat or disrespect you.”

“Dream large dreams and expect them to come true.  Write down your visions, goals and dreams and use them as a blueprint.  Look over them frequently and examine yourself daily.”

“Seek knowledge and wisdom.  They are worth more than silver and gold (They also attract silver and gold).”

“Do not be afraid to be creative or try something new.”

“Always know that someone is looking to you as an example.  Be careful of the life you live and the example you set.”

“Don’t wait for people to affirm you, agree with you, or motivate you.”

“Remember that other people will see you as you see you.”

“Have friends who are reaching for excellence and who encourage you to reach for excellence. Friends sharpen each other.  Their influence can help you to become better or worse.”

“Never allow anyone to speak negatively about a friend or anyone else while in your home or in your presence. Refuse to gossip.”

“Have at least one or two friends whom you can totally be yourself with without fear or rejection, judgment, or condemnation.”

“Be willing to invest in the lives of other people and their dreams.”

“Be a giver but learn also to receive for this is part of the principles of God and in so doing you are allowing someone else to be blessed by their giving.”

“Be your biggest fan and your biggest supporter (but stay humble).”

“Always keep in mind the importance of family.  For when friends turn their backs on you, family (with all their positives and negatives) should be there – especially parents and siblings.  Never allow anyone or anything to come in and cause separation (without good cause) within your family.  They (your immediate family) have been with you since you have been you!”

“Learn to really listen when someone is speaking to you.”

“Speak with confidence and don’t be easily intimidated.”

“Read a lot and be willing to learn from others.”

“Know that wherever you are in life, whether you like it there or not, there is always something to be learned there.”

“Speak the truth and speak words of life.”

“Always look for ways to improve yourself in every area of life.”

“Allow faith to operate in your life.”

“Always remember that God has confidence in your abilities.  He designed who you are and He never makes mistakes.  So have confidence not only in Him but also in yourself.”

“Always remember that promotion comes from God.  When God promotes you, there is not a person anywhere that can demote you.”

“Take time to get alone with God and meditate on His word on a continual bases and allow Him to purge you, strengthen you, and direct you.”

“Pray Constantly!”

“Set high standards for your life.”

“Live excellent!”

I sense a shifting in my life.  It feels like life is about to change again dramatically and drastically for the better!   “Well, Wendy, where is your proof? Did you hit the mega millions? Have you been invited to the Oprah show? What’s up?”

All I can tell you is that I have been making a conscious effort to stay in the presence of God– stay in a state of worship in spite of what I see going on around me.  I’ve been making a conscious effort to speak the Word of God in spite of… well, just in spite of.

Since I’ve made that “quality decision” (A Sharon Lawrence-Taylor often used phrase)- the decision to declare only what God has spoken,  the decision to believe in hope when there appears to be none (Romans 4)- the decision to take God at His word, believing that He won’t fail (because He can’t)- I feel a peace emerging- a peace that I haven’t felt at this level in quite some time. Some people think I’m in a state of denial. No, I see the problems. As a matter of fact, those problems often get right in my face and challenge me at the very core of my belief! However, I believe God-period!!

Yeah, I know, things don’t look good in the world and individually we seem to be experiencing some of our most challenging times. I know that it makes absolutely no “natural” sense to be encouraged- to be excited when life often appears to be in chaos.  However, it is time for the Children of God to close our natural eyes and see through our spiritual eyes.  In spite of everything, God is taking us somewhere. It’s an interesting journey. 

You may say, “Wendy, you don’t know what I’m going through! You don’t know the pain and anguish that consumes me. I’ve lost family on this journey. I’ve lost friends on this journey. I’ve lost my ability to sleep, I’ve lost my reputation, I’ve lost… me on this journey.”

Let’s just be honest. Life is often quite difficult.  At times life and the enemy of our faith hit us with blows so hard that we never think we can recover. Whew, trust me, I know it’s not easy but we have to believe that the Word of God will not only change our circumstances but it will change us and propel us into the right place- a place of wholeness, a place of healing, and a place where we can effectively influence the world for the kingdom of God.

Someone told me the other day, “Wendy, you’re just the strong one… your faith is unbelievable.”  I had to laugh out loud. I’ve had so many moments of weakness. I have had to believe God for the impossible, just like we all do. I have even felt like David, who said, “Lord, if I had wings like a dove, for then I would fly away… (See Psalm 55. Whew! Thank God that He didn’t give me wings!!!).  But in the midst of my weaknesses,  in the midst of the unexpected storms, in the midst of the struggles and the vicissitudes of life, there always arises that one question that I can never get away from: “Wendy, Who/what do you believe?”  At the end of the day, my attitude has to reflect my belief. I have to keep casting down those thoughts, those imaginations, those beliefs, and all those things that oppose the word of God. Is it easy to do? No. Do I get it right all the time? Nope.

I  believe we are walking in extraordinary times. That is the reason why our trials and pains have been at a level we have never seen before. Everything around us is shaking. Every place that we have put our faith in (other than God) is shaking.  Many of us have experienced incredible heartaches that can’t be describe with our words. I spoke to a person the other day who said, “I don’t think I can take one more blow or make one more step!”  He cried painful tears. When I heard his pain, my heart hurt for him. I asked God, “Lord, how do you encourage people in this hour- people who are experiencing such pain, such loss, such doubt, and confusion? I often don’t have the words an often times I’m fighting as well.  However we have to allow God’s word to comfort and strengthen us. When we don’t think we can take another step, somehow God strengthens us to take it. When our heart is hurting so bad that it feels like it is going to explode inside of us, somehow God keeps it from exploding. He alone gives us the strength to stand.

God is bringing many of us through such difficult times but He is bringing us to an incredible place. Things are changing.  We’re changing. We are being revealed. Yes, you, the real you- the incredible you, the unstoppable you, the you that God designed from the beginning of time is emerging. Don’t give up. Don’t give in. Stand in faith. Stay in a place of worship to our God! Hold on to the word of God.  Keep His word coming out of your mouth! Keep confessing it. Keep believing it.  Understand that in spite of and in the midst of everything, God is in control! God’s got you. You’re going to make it and when you come through, you will be able to strengthen your brother and sister (Luke 22:32, 1 Corinthians 1:3-4).

Well, those are just some thoughts of the moment. Stay encouraged and stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

http://beautycomeforth.com

In the midst of it all, God always reassured me in one way or another that He was in control. What the enemy thought would break me, God used to build me! What the enemy thought would make me bitter, God used to make me better! What the enemy thought would plummet me, God used to propel me to higher heights! So instead of running for cover, I was uncovered by God and what laid revealed was a level of strength, power, and wealth that I didn’t even know existed.

So here we are in 2010 and I’m ready to bring it! Bring what? I’m ready to bring what God put in me to bring. I’m ready to inspire, to challenge, to encourage, and to engage on a greater level! I’m going to step out on ideas that I believe God gave me. As a matter of fact, I’ve already started stepping out on them. I’m walking into opportunities that I believe God provided for me. I’ve connected with other spiritually minded, God focused, great people and explosive things are already happening. What God has put on the inside of me is not just for me! I have to… I’m compelled to do what I am created to do!

It is time to shine in the midst of darkness. There are so many lives that need to be touched and reached for Christ!  People are hurting! People are experiencing hopelessness like never before. They are searching for help, for hope and for answers.  I’ve got to do my part in helping others find that hope in Christ! We’ve got to find creative ways to spread some good news in these seemingly depressing times. At the end of the day, it won’t be about how much money or fame you acquired but how many lives you touched and impacted with the love God placed in you. How did you treat people? How did you care for them and how did you use your life, your gifts and your talents in the process.

So what about you? What are you bringing? What gifts and talents are you stepping out on? Are you afraid? It’s ok. As Joyce Meyer would say, “Do it afraid.” And if you’re going through hard times yourself, I want to remind you that with God all things are possible. Don’t get weary. God’s got you even when it doesn’t feel like it! Wherever you are, whatever you’re going through, He has provided a way for you! It’s time to trust Him. You’re going to make it (see Luke 1:37, Proverbs 3:5-6, Galatians 6:9, 2 Corinthians 4:8,9)!

You have so much on the inside of you that the world needs. God created you as the answer to someone’s problem! You have a treasure within you  (2nd Corinthians 4:7)! God gave it to you. He put it there. Don’t just sit on it. Use it! God is expecting you to invest it (your talents, your gifts, your time) wisely (Luke 19:11-26)! Spread the wealth and I guarantee your investment will be multiplied.

Have you sat down and thought and prayed about the direction you are going in? Have you thought about places where your gifts could be used? What are you going to do to change the world? “Well, Wendy, that’s a lot of pressure!” No, not really. Ask God what your part is, and do that. You don’t have to do my part. Do your part. It’ll be enough. Bring what you have. Use what you have to make your world better.

As I close, I want to challenge you to pick up the Bible and read it. Get into it this year. Let it be your road map. On this journey, we are definitely going to need it. If you don’t have a good church home, find one. If you don’t know one, let me know. We’ll try to connect you with some options within the United States. This is a time of restoration. It’s a time of powerful release. It is a time of shining for the people of God! God is moving and doing incredible things. We don’t want to miss it!

Stay encouraged, Stay in God’s presence, and Let’s walk in extraordinary times together!

Wendy M. Reynolds

By the way: If you haven’t checked out the magazine Beauty Come Forth, please check it out every week. Although it is a monthly magazine, some parts are updated weekly including the Weekly Word I contribute. God is moving greatly and we are having fun over at Beauty Come Forth! Each edition is getting better and better. I appreciate the feedback that you all have given me.

Be sure to check out the latest edition at http://beautycomeforth.com. You can click on the letters that spell out FABULOUS for great articles. In addition, you can click on the cover itself or the sections around the cover such as the “The Male Room” or “Wendy’s Weekly Word.”  There is also webcasting and video. Believe me when I say, “Wow!” Myra Wallace is working hard at bringing a top notch experience. It is paying off. We have some exciting reading and exciting events that you can take part in. After you check it out, feel free to leave me message here on Higher Heights on the “Guest Sign-in” page. A few people have left messages on the “Bio page.” Check out what they said. Thanks.

~Wendy

His birth, death, and resurrection has given me the opportunity to live a life that is new and not hindered by the past. Because of His love, I have been given salvation, forgiveness, grace, mercy, victory, peace, love, friendship, better promises, security, a warrior to fight for me…  The blood of Jesus sealed  my covenant with God. Can you imagine a better partner, a better friend to be in covenant with?

As you go through your day, please be sure to take time to reflect on the life that you have been given or offered because of what Christ gave on the cross. Think on the transforming power of God. Think on what He has done for you. Think about where He has brought you from, what He has brought you through and what He is bringing you to.  Be thankful today. Offer up a sacrifice of praise to God today. Stay in a state of worship to our King and be ever reminded of what He accomplished for us because of His love for us!

Stay encouraged and in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

I’ve been sitting here writing and reading- trying to determine what it is I am supposed to share with you. I was going to share Psalm 107:2 with you today. However, as I read the whole chapter, I decided I couldn’t just share one scripture. Therefore the whole chapter is listed below. 

This passage of scripture reminds me of the situations of life that we find ourselves in for whatever reason. However, it also reminds me of  how God redeemed us.  I forget sometimes that I have actually been redeemed. When you forget you have been redeemed, you allow yourself to stay in negative, unhealthy and unproductive situations much longer than you need to.  Psalm 107:2 tells us ”Let the redeemed of the Lord say so.” We should consistantly announce that we are the redeemed, Who redeemed us, what we were redeemed from, and what we have because of that redemption.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, redeem means: to buy back, to get or win back;  to free from what distresses or harm: as to free from captivity by payment of ransom; to extricate from or help to overcome something detrimental; to release from blame or debt; to free or clear from the consequences of sin; to reform: to change for the better; repair, restore; to free from a lien by payment of an amount secured; fulfill; to atone for, to offset the bad effect of;  expiate, retrieve, rescue.

The death and resurrection of the Christ, and my accepting Him, redeemed me from the curse of the law. I am not only an heir of the old Abrahamic covenant, but I am an heir to better promises because of Christ.  However, I must access those promises by my faith and by speaking them out of my mouth. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! I am redeemed from poverty and I say so! I am redeemed from the distresses and choas in my life and I say so! I am redeemed from sin and I say so! I am redeemed from my past and the foolish and stupid stuff that I did and I say so! I am redeemed from sickness and I say so.  God has released me to a peaceful life and I say so! I have been given an abundant life and I say so! I am prosperous spiritually, emotionally, financially, physically, socially- nothing lacking, nothing broken, and I say so!  

Oh, I wish you could hear me scream!!  I sometimes forget  to declare what God has done in my life! I sometimes forget to decree the blessings of God over my life! I sometimes forget what I have been redeemed from! I have allowed myself to sit in prisoned places sometimes when I didn’t have to. I have stayed in despair sometimes when I didn’t have to. I’ve allowed other people from time to time to dictate my future to me when I didn’t have to! No more! No more! Lord help me to stay reminded of who You are, what You’ve done and what You’ve given! Help me to declare it every day! I am redeemed and I say so!

I want to challenge you redeemed folks to stay reminded of what you have been redeemed from and what you now have because of the love of God. Saturate yourself in the Word of God so you’ll know the love and promises of God.  He gave everything for us!  Talk about it! Write about it! Sing about it!  Praise God for it! “Oh, that men would praise Him!” Don’t stay silent. Expect the goodness of God, the promises of God, the favor of God, the peace of God, the Word of God and the hand of God to be evident in your lives TODAY! I challenged you to get out of the prison that God has set you free from. I challenge you to talk like the redeemed person that you are! I challenge you to walk redeemed! Are you up for the challenge? I know that you are!

Stay encouraged and stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

 Psalm 107

BOOK FIVE

 ¹O GIVE thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!

    ²Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has delivered from the hand of the adversary,

    ³And gathered them out of the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the [Red] Sea in the south.

    ⁴Some wandered in the wilderness in a solitary desert track; they found no city for habitation.

    ⁵Hungry and thirsty, they fainted; their lives were near to being extinguished.

    ⁶Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and He delivered them out of their distresses.

    ⁷He led them forth by the straight and right way, that they might go to a city where they could establish their homes.

    ⁸Oh, that men would praise [and confess to] the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men!

    ⁹For He satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with good.

    ¹⁰Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and in irons,

    ¹¹Because they had rebelled against the words of God and spurned the counsel of the Most High.

    ¹²Therefore He bowed down their hearts with hard labor; they stumbled and fell down, and there was none to help.

    ¹³Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them out of their distresses.

    ¹⁴He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke apart the bonds that held them.

    ¹⁵Oh, that men would praise [and confess to] the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men!

    ¹⁶For He has broken the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron apart.

    ¹⁷Some are fools [made ill] because of the way of their transgressions and are afflicted because of their iniquities.

    ¹⁸They loathe every kind of food, and they draw near to the gates of death.

    ¹⁹Then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and He delivers them out of their distresses.

    ²⁰He sends forth His word and heals them and rescues them from the pit and destruction.

    ²¹Oh, that men would praise [and confess to] the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men!

    ²²And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving and rehearse His deeds with shouts of joy and singing!

    ²³Some go down to the sea and travel over it in ships to do business in great waters;

    ²⁴These see the works of the Lord and His wonders in the deep.

    ²⁵For He commands and raises up the stormy wind, which lifts up the waves of the sea.

    ²⁶[Those aboard] mount up to the heavens, they go down again to the deeps; their courage melts away because of their plight.

    ²⁷They reel to and fro and stagger like a drunken man and are at their wits’ end [all their wisdom has come to nothing].

    ²⁸Then they cry to the Lord in their trouble, and He brings them out of their distresses.

    ²⁹He hushes the storm to a calm and to a gentle whisper, so that the waves of the sea are still.

    ³⁰Then the men are glad because of the calm, and He brings them to their desired haven.

    ³¹Oh, that men would praise [and confess to] the Lord for His goodness and loving-kindness and His wonderful works to the children of men!

    ³²Let them exalt Him also in the congregation of the people and praise Him in the company of the elders.

    ³³He turns rivers into a wilderness, water springs into a thirsty ground,

    ³⁴A fruitful land into a barren, salt waste, because of the wickedness of those who dwell in it.

    ³⁵He turns a wilderness into a pool of water and a dry ground into water springs;

    ³⁶And there He makes the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation,

    ³⁷And sow fields, and plant vineyards which yield fruits of increase.

    ³⁸He blesses them also, so that they are multiplied greatly, and allows not their cattle to decrease.

    ³⁹When they are diminished and bowed down through oppression, trouble, and sorrow,

    ⁴⁰He pours contempt upon princes and causes them to wander in waste places where there is no road.

    ⁴¹Yet He raises the poor and needy from affliction and makes their families like a flock.

    ⁴²The upright shall see it and be glad, but all iniquity shall shut its mouth.

    ⁴³Whoso is wise [if there be any truly wise] will observe and heed these things; and they will diligently consider the mercy and loving-kindness of the Lord.

Well now, I have the pleasure and the honor to introduce Higher Heights Readers to something new. Greatness is about to meet Beauty! On October 8, 2009, my friend and sister, Myra Wallace in launching her new on-line magazine. It is simply called “Beauty Come Forth!” Myra is a powerful woman of God with a God inspired vision.  If you haven’t heard of her, she is an Philanthropist, Author, Business Executive, Fashion Designer and just a really nice person When we met, we became quick friends. I could tell right away that this project was not about her. It is about God and fulfilling His call on her life. It’s about helping others find wholeness in God.  She is wrapped up in Him. How refreshing.

The Beauty Come Forth Online Magazine is a top notch monthly magazine featuring articles that address the lifestyle of women in transition to greatness. The articles will encourage, empower and celebrate women through fashion, finance, fitness, food, health, entertainment, spirituality and of course beauty.

Beauty Come Forth has a 2nd to none staff that loves the Lord and who are wonderful people. They are greatly experienced in their field. They are ready and excited to pour out to you what God has given them in order to provide you with an experience that is sure to help transform your thinking and your life as you transition into greatness!

I am so very honored to be a part of this God inspired project. I, along with some other simply incredible people will be working along side Myra as she lays out, writes out, and pursues the vision that God has given to her. I have been asked to serve as the Special Features Editor and also contribute what is called “Wendy’s Weekly Word.” I’m excited. I believe this will be an exciting part of my  journey in Christ and my walking in the steps He has laid out for me! My expectations are high and I continue to be proud to write for Him!

I have spent time talking with Myra and in doing so I believe I heard portions of her heart. She has such a heart for God, for people and for wanting to see them walk in who God created them to be.  I believe in my heart that this is such God idea. God’s greatness revealed through beauty!  Wow! I’m excited not just because I will be a part of something else great, but I’m excited because people all over the world will have an opportunity to be a part. They will  have access to information that will inspire, challenge and transform them.  I’m excited because this is an opportunity to be a witness for God!  It’s an opportunity for Him to be glorified!  I so want Him to be glorified in my life! Don’t you? It’s about Him- His purpose- His plan!

So guess what? Starting October 8, 2009, it is imperative that you make Beauty Come Forth  ( http://beautycomeforth.com ) as well as Higher Heights a regular part of your on-line experience! This is an opportunity to be a part of something great from the beginning. If you are on facebook, you can even join the “Beauty Come Forth” group that will enable you to be a part of discussions and get other great information. Let’s send a message around the world by giving Beauty Come Forth the largest online readership ever (Umm… along with Higher Heights! ). Spread the word to eveyone you know. Challenge them and yourself to check it out! Keep Beauty Come Forth as well as Higher Heights in your prayers and on your internet browser!

Am I still doing Higher Heights?” Umm… yeah! As a matter of fact, I believe Higher Heights is about to be better than ever! I have great ideas that I believe will send Higher Heights to new levels! I’ve been making a conscious effort to stay in God’s presence. I want my ear to be open to Him. I want to bring you what He wants you to have. He has been connecting me with amazing people that will be instrumental in Higher Heights  going to new Heights.  I’m excited. There will be more guest articles and more ways for you to be involved. You all are so important to me. God has blessed us to be a part of each other’s lives and I never want to take that for granted. That’s why I am careful as to what I bring and what I endorse!

So, are you ready?!  Are you with me?!  Are you ready to be inspired to go higher- to live your best life- to walk in faith- to lay aside those things and issues that have kept you stuck in the past? Are you ready to really live an on purpose, God led life? Are you ready to walk in honesty? Are you ready to walk in greatness and unleash the beauty within? I know you are. I know that I am!!  Let’s walk in extraordinary times… together! As Myra would say, “It’s going to be FABULOUS!”

In the meantime, Stay encouraged and Stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

Whew! Who knew what that would set in motion?  Who knew the war that would start by my stepping more confidently in the direction of my destiny?! Who knew that it would seem as if everything in my life would be shaken?!

However, in the process, God has been revealing  Himself and myself to me.  Because of the battles I’ve been in, I have gotten to know God better as Jehovah Tsebaioth- the Lord of Host! He wields His sword and commands an army of angels! When the enemy stepped in and tried to steal my peace, I got to know God more as Jehovah Shalom- the Lord our peace!  When I made wrong decisions,  God revealed Himself as the One who forgives, because I sure needed it. When I faced those times when I thought no one understood,  God revealed Himself as Jehovah Shammah- The Lord who is there. He never left me! Oh, believe me, I could go on.

In the midst of God revealing more of Himself to me during these times, I discovered that I could press forward through wherever I was- through whatever I was facing. I didn’t have to get off track. I didn’t have to stop progressing. I discovered that I could finish strong! Finish what strong? Whatever God started in me. Whatever I was doing that would bring God glory!

I wore a bracelet for the majority of the year that simply said “Finish Strong!” When tough times came, I tried very hard to stay in God’s word in order to remind myself that greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world! I will finish and I’ll finish strong. I had some tough graduate classes this year. But I didn’t quit. I’m finishing strong and coming out on top! I met up with… umm, ok, let me word this right… I met with some unexpected challenges from people and places that I had poured myself into for years… but guess what? It didn’t break me. I’m finishing strong.  I lost over 50 lbs and gained 15 (give or take a pound or 5 But you feel me!), but Yall, I’m finishing strong!

Although the challenges have been intense, God has been so good.  He has been the strength that has enabled me to stand and progress. He has been the comfort that I’ve needed.  He has been the friend that I needed. He has been right there cheering me on- right there providing me with divine strength, divine favor, divine connections and divine opportunities. I can honestly declare that I’m standing stronger than I was at the beginning of the year! 

October is right around the corner. When that occurs, we will be in the 4th and final quarter of the year. A new year is right around the bend. I want to encourage you to finish strong! Whatever you’re facing- be it difficult or easy, finish strong! Keep looking to God who is  the Author and Finisher  of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). We must keep in mind that it is God who enables and empowers us to finish. It is only God who defines us! It is God who promotes us (Psalms 75:6)! It is God whom we are in Covenant with (Gen 12:1-3, Heb 8:6)! Because He is true to His word, we can finish strong! I believe we are getting ready to walk in extraordinary times. Now is the time to keep pressing.

Now is the time to pursue, pursue, pursue! However, in all our pursuits, we must make sure that we are pursuing God first and foremost with all our hearts (Matthew 6:33, Jeremiah 29:13)! We must stay in a state of worship to God.  Worshipping God will keep you from being consumed with you. Worshipping God will keep your focus off of your circumstances. Worshippng God will keep us from worshipping and idolizing people and things and will keep you from falling apart when those people and things turn on you  (Hmmm, where did that come from? Who was that for?). Worship will keep you in remembrance of God’s greatness and of the fact that one word from God can change your life! He will in turn keep you planted in the direction of your destiny.

Keep that in mind as we finish up the last quarter of the year. I challenge you to finish strong. Let’s finish strong knowing that God is for us. He is our Champion and He will complete and perfect what He started in us (Philippians 1:6 amplified)!

Just something to think about today.

Stay encouraged and in God’s presence!
Wendy M. Reynolds

While sitting here writing, I decided to take a break in order to return emails, check my twitter account and do a little reading. I came across this passage from a great book. I just have to share with you.  It’s not long. Please read it all. It has a great message. Of course at the end I have issued a challenge. 

 
Excerpt from
The Simple Truths of Appreciation
by Barbara Glanz

When I speak about appreciation, I use this quote by Albert Schweitzer:

“Sometimes our light goes out but is blown again into flame by an encounter with another human being. Each of us owes the deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this inner light.”

Then I ask my audiences to please shut their eyes and think about someone, who at some time in their lives, has rekindled their inner light. I leave the room in silence for several minutes, and it is always a profound experience as they remember the joy they received from being appreciated by someone when they needed it the most.

Afterwards I ask them to write down the name of the person they thought of and to commit to their own act of appreciation by letting that person know in the next 72 hours that he or she was thought of. I suggest a phone call, a note, or even a little prayer if they are no longer living.

After one moving session, a gentleman came up to talk with me and thanked me for creating a new awareness in him. He said he thought of his eighth grade literature teacher because she was everyone’s favorite teacher, and had really made a difference in all of their lives. He planned to track his teacher down, and when he finally found her, he wrote to her.

The following week he received this letter:

Dear John,

You will never know how much your letter meant to me. I am 83 years old, and I am living all alone in one room. My friends are all gone. My family’s gone. I taught 50 years and yours is the first “thank you” letter I have ever gotten from a student. Sometimes I wonder what I did with my life. I will read and reread your letter until the day I die.

He just sobbed on the phone. He said, “She is always the one we talk about at every reunion. She was everyone’s favorite teacher – we loved her!” But no one had ever told her…until she received his letter.

Wasn’t that powerful? Showing appreciation is so important.  So many times we think people know how we feel or how they have impacted our lives, but perhaps they don’t. Marriages break up because someone doesn’t feel appreciated. People leave churches and places of employment or even do worse things because they don’t feel appreciated.

Today I am going to piggy back off of Barbara and ask you to close your eyes and think about someone who has in one way or another inspired you or impacted your life for the better. Who is that person that gave you the extra push or encouragement when you were tempted to quit? Maybe there is a person that saw something in you that no one else saw. Maybe someone took you in their home for minute when there was trouble in your home. Maybe someone prayed for you  or made you laugh when your life was in turmoil. Who is the person that made a difference in your life?  Was it  a parent, a teacher, or a childhood friend? It could have happened last week, last decade, or even longer. Maybe there is more than one person. Write their names down.

Now commit to writing and sending them a letter of appreciation during the week you are reading this. You may have to track some people down. If you do, than do it. After you have found them, write and send off the letter. A handwritten letter is always nice because it is personal and it can be a keepsake to read over and over again. Write the letter.  Let it come from the heart. My friend Sharon Lawrence-Taylor always tells me “What comes from the heart, reaches the heart!” If you can’t send a handwritten letter, email them or call them on the phone. You may never know what it would mean to them. You don’t know what someone might be going through. Your appreciation might be exactly what they need. Don’t just assume that people know that they have  made a difference. Tell them.  If that person is no longer living, well, take time to thank God for putting that person in your life at a time you needed him or her.

Are you up for the challenge? I know you are. This is a good one (not that the others were not- smile). This is an opportunity to bless someone and make him or her feel good by letting him or her know that he or she did something good.  I remember when folks wore the “WWJD?” (What Would Jesus Do?) braclets.  For this challenge, envision yourself wearing a “HWIF?” bracelet. What does “HWIF?” stand for?  It stands for “How Would I Feel? “

How would you feel if you received a letter stating, “Dear You, You may not even remember but you really made a difference in my life when you … I just want to say thank you.  You may never know what your presence and actions did for me at that time in my life. I am better because of you!” Wow, how would you feel? Don’t waste an opportunity. Let’s make giving appreciation a way of life!

Until next time,

Stay encouraged and Stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

 PS. By the way, I appreciate you!

I became a little frustrated. They had to be perfect or at least as close to perfect as they can be. In the midst of cutting, trimming, and frustration, it was like I heard God say, “Flawed, but with a flawless message, just like you.”  It got my attention. Immediately, I realized that my attention had shifted from the message that I was trying to send out- it shifted to the package that I was trying to present the message in. Hmm… stay with me ’cause you know what happen next. I started thinking about my life and how in so many ways I have shifted trying to perfect the package- trying to present the package in a way that people will receive in order to get the message. Now don’t get me wrong. I don’t think you should present yourself in any old kind of way. What I am saying is that we cannot get so caught up and consumed in the package that we never present the message that God has given us to give.

God knows we have flaws yet He still entrusted us with a powerful, valuable and flawless message. We have a message of hope. We have a message proclaiming God’s love and His ability to see folks through hard times. We have a good news message that must be told.

In my pursuit of becoming a person of optimal health, do I wait until I am at my ideal weight before I share the message? Or could the message include what God has done and my expectation of what He has promised to do in my life? Do I wait until I am transformed or do I allow people to see the transforming power of God right before their eyes? Do I wait until I have the title “Dr.” before my name before I articulate the love of God? Having that title may make one “feel” more valuable and received but what if I never get that title?  Am I not just as valuable? Does it make the message of God ineffective? Does it negate the power of the Word? Do I wait until I am a best selling author or do I wait until I am invited to the Oprah Show before I start communicating? God’s message that He wants to send is just as effective with or without our perfections, titles,… Why? Because the message, although sent through us, is not about us. Let me state that again. The message, although sent through us, is not about us.

I’m reminded of Peter’s character flaws. He was a disciple of Christ. He hung out with Jesus. Peter could be a hot head at times.  In addition, he was fearful, he wrestled with who he was, he denied Christ and he struggled with guilt.  However, he was still used mightily of God. Peter was able to reach many people with his God given message and God ordained purpose. The Apostle Paul didn’t try to be perfect before he delivered the message God placed in him. As a matter of fact, he said in 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, 

 ¹And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.

 ²For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.

 ³And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

 ⁴And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

 ⁵That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”

So needless to say, I kept packaging up my poems. As a matter of fact, I kind of smiled at their flaws because I had gotten the revelation that God had packed a powerful message right there in the midst of the flaws. Wow!

OK, here comes the challenge. I challenge you this weekend and upcoming week to look past your flaws. (They don’t define you anyways). Get an understanding that this is not all about you!  I challenge you to get an understanding of  just how powerful the message is that God has put on the inside of you. While He is perfecting us, He still uses  us. In the midst of our human flaws, God can and does still use us to carry forth a powerful witness, a potent word and perfected praise. Wow, what an awesome God we serve!

Until next time, Stay encouraged and Stay in His presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

A chance to seek God’s face- A chance to get things right.  My opportunity to let the important people in my life know they are loved, appreciated and valued.  A chance to wipe away a tear from the eyes of a child; A chance to give away a smile and a kind word to a stranger since we never know what someone may be going through;  A day to consciously and purposely forgive and not be moved when someone angers me purposely.

 Yes, I see the Sunrise- a new day of mercies- a new day of miracles and challenges.  New opportunities to work on my Goals and dreams My Dreams!  A new time to follow my purpose with passion;  A day to live by the standards and values which govern my life.  A day to meet new friends- my divine connections.  Another opportunity to reach Higher Heights as I am renewed in the spirit of my mind.  This is my chance to be empowered, enthused and innovative.  A day to teach and be taught.  Time to take some risk and believe that I am well able to beat the odds- well able to overcome- well able to possess my land.

Yes, the Sunrise- a break of a brand new day!  Time for me to be a tonesetter- an example.  My opportunity to show someone else a different view out of a different window- creating doors of opportunities for myself as well as for others.

Here I am Rising to meet the Occasion.  Spreading my light as an Eagle spreads its wings until it reaches immeasurable heights!  Spreading my light like that of the sun- Overcoming darkness.  Bringing warmth and embracing all who stand in its presence.  Here I am Rising—  Simply because I am suppose to.

Stay encouraged and in God’s presene!

Wendy M. Reynolds

~WR

I know the news often looks rough. We hear of illnesses, job closures and losses as well as people giving up.  However we do not concede to the circumstances or the negativity around us. It is here in the midst of darkness that God’s light in us can and will shine brightest. It is here in what often seems like hopeless times that we must be like Abraham in the bible “who against hope believed in hope!” Let’s get our hopes up and spread it everywhere we go.

So, I just want to give you this word today. “God’s got you! Believe God period!” Where ever you are today- whatever you are going through, whatever you are facing,  God’s got you! Get your hopes and expectations up! You are so much more than what your circumstances say. You are far more valuable that what others even know. Get ready for a divine explosion in your life. Hold onto your faith. Don’t lose or cast away your confidence (Hebrews 10:35-37) and always keep praises to God coming from your mouth (Psalm 34).

Believe the word and promises of God. Be fully persuaded that He will do what He promised He would (Romans 4).  Difficult times don’t change who He is. Every day is a new opportunity for God to shine through you and show out in you! Get ready to be elevated in the midst of difficulty. The world needs messengers of hope. The world needs people who are unafraid to rise to the occasion and step into greatness. Be a messenger of hope and inspiration.  You can and you will rise to the occasion of greatness! Are you ready?

Romans 4:16-21

¹⁶Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

 ¹⁷(As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.

 ¹⁸Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.

 ¹⁹And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb:

 ²⁰He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;

 ²¹And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

Until next time,

Stay encouraged and stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

As I contimplated it today,  a thought struck me.   In the book of Mark 16:6 we see that Mary had reached the tomb where Jesus had been placed. She was told by a man that Jesus was no longer there. He had risen. The stone had been rolled away. You know the story.   

A couple of years ago I was writing an article about the resurrection. I think it turned out pretty good. I got a little excited over it. It asked the question: What needs to be resurrected in your life… It ended with  ”Thank God that Jesus was resurrected. He got up! And because He got up, I can to. I am risen! Risen from the past. Risen from whatever held me captive. No longer am I wrapped up and sealed behind the stone- the stone of fear, the stone of oppression, the stone of whatever! So, don’t look for me to be in that place, although it might be where you last saw me. Don’t look for me in the tomb! I am not there! My stone has been rolled away. I am no longer bound but I am free to be fully alive- free to complete the work of my Father! Thank God for His resurrection power!!” I thought it was pretty powerful however it was incomplete.

When Mary went to tend to Jesus in the tomb she discovered that He was not there. Not only did Jesus “rise” but He “left the tomb.” Many times many of us believe that we to have been resurrected to a new life but yet we still hang out around the tomb. After Jesus arose, He went on about His business and mission. He didn’t hang out around the tomb or dead things trying to convince people that He was alive.

Have you ever been through something hard but now you’re past it?  However, people still think you’re in the tomb.  They try to keep you in your same state and nurse your issues now that your issues are past. Maybe you had a bout with depression. Maybe you had legal issues. Maybe you lost everything. I don’t know what you’ve been through. Let me give you a piece of advice. Don’t hang around the tomb trying to convince people that you are ok. Just go ahead and live your life. Sooner or later, someone will let folks know that you’re ok. It is not your responsibility to convince them that you’re not in the same place. Many times people would like to keep you near your tomb for their own benefits (Thats a whole different story). Move away from the tomb- those things connected with your past or deadly issues.

Because Jesus has risen, I can arise as well!! How awesome and cool is that? Let’s celebrate the risen Savior by rising. Let the stones of fear, doubt, unbelief,…be rolled back. Be unwrapped from the cares of life! Arise and be who God has called you to be. Come forth yall and walk away from the tomb. God will declare your resurrection as you move in the direction of your dreams and purpose!!!”

Keep progressing! Stay encouraged and of course, Stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

It’s so predictable. As soon as we make choices to lead better lives and lives according to the Word of God, the enemy comes quickly. he comes to challenge us for our faith and for our identity in Christ.

I was talking with a young lady yesterday who told that she never had any major life problems when she was out running the streets, getting high and just tripping. But once she decided to change her life, she ran into all kinds of problems.

I also spoke with a young man who said that every since he has decided to get serious about living the word of God, temptations were coming at him left and right. Stuff that didn’t even used to tempt him was tempting him now.

I thought about Luke 4. In this chapter, Jesus was in the wilderness being tempted by the enemy. Jesus had been fasting and praying and then up jumps the enemy. There is  lot in this particular chapter but I just want to keep it simple. The emeny outwardly tempted Jesus in basically four areas: The Physical need (I know you’re hungry, if you be the Son of God, then turn these stones into bread–You know You’re hungry. You know You want it); Materialistically (the enemy took Jesus up to a high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world. All this could be yours along with the power and glory of them if You just worship me); Emotionally to question  His identity (If you really are the Son of God); Spiritually (You know what the Word of God says, jump off this pinnacle and let’s see the Word in action. It is written that God would give His angels charge over you.)

WHATEVER! The enemy was trying to capitalize on Jesus’ weakened state. The enemy thought that he could get Jesus to try and prove who He was and  to question who He was and who God was. The enemy thought he could give a false appearance of being much more powerful than he really was or is. However, Jesus knew who He himself was. He knew that His Father was God and He knew the enemy was no god and had nothing to offer Him. Jesus  knew He had nothing to prove!  Jesus spoke the Word which kept Him from entertaining the thoughts of the enemy.

What about you? What’s going on in your dialogue with the enemy?  Have you given him your ear? Are you giving into temptation? Is he getting you to question who you are  or who God is? Remember, when you know who you are, you don’t have to prove anything. Do you think that the enemy has anything to offer you? Well, he doesn’t. The enemy is a thief. All he wants is to steal from you- especially your faith. That’s what he is after.

Arm yourself with the Word of God! The Word of God is your authority in the earth. It is your weapon. Arm yourself with the knowledge that every thing you need- every good and perfect gift comes down from the Father of light- that’s God! The enemy has nothing to offer you and you have nothing to prove to him.

When the enemy discovered he wasn’t gaining in ground with Jesus, he left Him for a season. I guess he had to try and put together a new game plan. But look what Jesus did:

^{Luke 4:14} Then Jesus went back full of and under the power of the [Holy] Spirit into Galilee, and the fame of Him spread through the whole region round about.

Yeah, Jesus returned full of power and fame of him was spread though out the whole region.! So, when the enemy starts talking to you,  remember to:

1. Speak the Word of God as your response

2. Recognize that you have noting to prove (You know who you are in God and who God is) and the enemy has nothing to offer.

3. Recognize and walk in your God given authority

4. Return full of power or powerful!

Alright, I’m done-for now (smile). Stay encouraged! Stay full of faith and power! Stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

I am seeing something that I have never seen in my life time.  Yes, I know Obama is the first Black President. That is awesome! However, that is not what I am talking about. What I am referring to is having someone in the highest office in the United States that inspires people to have hope! To me, that in itself is amazing.

He is not perfect. He’ll  make some mistakes. He won’t have all the answers and He is definitely not the answers to all our problems.  However, his ability to inspire people of all ages, genders, and races - his ability to encourage people in the direction of positive change is something that is so needed today.

Hope is something that has been missing. For so long, it looked as if we had lost our ability to dream. We have been inundated with so much negative news.  That negativity had slowly begun to cloudy our soul and our vision. I can’t tell you the countless amounts of people that I talk to everyday that were hopeless. They just expected things to not work out in their lives or in our communities. They were afraid to encourage their children to dream. Why should you dream and be disappointed?  But now, hope is in the air. Change is in the atmosphere? The desire to dream is falling on our youth and on our Elders. Excitement and passion are running over like a waterfall. You may not like him, but you can’t deny it. Welcome President Barak Obama!

Now, I challenge you to recognize the season you are in. Get your expectations up. Get your excitment back. Dream again. Why? Because President Obama is in office? No sir. I believe that natural occurances are just reflective of Spiritual occuarances. I believe we are in a shift.  We have been in difficult positions, but things are shifting. We’ve been tempted to throw in the towel but hope, along with victory, is emerging because we didn’t faint. There’s a change in the atmosphere.  What will become of your dream? What do you think will happen if you believe God for what seems like the impossible? See, GOD is the answer to all our questions. He is the hope of the world. Man will fail you and disappoint you but not God. It is Him that gives us the desires of our hearts. He formed the dreams in us. He causes all things to work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.  Yeah, God is up to something. He is about to show out. Are you ready? It doesn’t matter what things look like, when God arises, enemies scatter. As God arises, great things happen. Hold on ’cause a change is coming!

Psalms 42 : 5 states, ^“Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, my Help and my God.”  It is time to not only have hope but have hope in God.

Well, as we celebrate this moment in history, be happy but also be careful to not expect man to do what only God can do. Place your hope in God!

Here’s to change!

Stay encouraged, stay hopeful and stay in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds