Month: August 2015

For our final week of transitioning into a Woman of God. We have the honor of hearing the story of Sheveze Anderson. I know, it’s my mother and I’m not biased but her testimony is so real and so relatable!! Please read below as she is totally transparent about her journey on becoming a Woman of God!!! 

Transitioning to a woman of God is an everyday,  all day process.
Wear the full armor of God. Wear God’s armor so that you can fight against the devil’s clever tricks. That is why you need to get God’s full armor. Then on the day of evil, you will be able to stand strong. And when you have finished the whole fight, you will still be standing.  So stand strong with the belt of truth tied around your waist, and on your chest wear the protection of right living. On your feet wear the Good News of peace to help you stand strong. And also use the shield of faith with which you can stop all the burning arrows that come from the Evil One. Accept God’s salvation as your helmet. And take the sword of the Spirit—that sword is the teaching of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times. Pray with all kinds of prayers, and ask for everything you need. To do this you must always be ready. Never give up. Always pray for all of God’s people. 
Ephesians 6:11, 13-18 ERV 

I can tell you that this transition has not been easy. I can remember starting to build a life at 17, a newborn, a high school diploma and my man. I always knew there would be things to get over but I never imagined the things that would come against me. I had a very defined sense of the things that I would and would not accept in a relationship. I had been through a pretty rough childhood so I was street smart, book smart and mean. I declared I would never be homeless, I would not put up with anyone that used or sold drugs and I would not take any man back that cheated on me. You can laugh now, you can image that when I turned my life over to Christ, the devil said watch and see.
It was me, Michael and Tawanna against the world. Michael and I hussled hard to make end meets. At 20 we  decided to have another baby so our children would be close in age. I got pregnant with no problems but at 5 months I was in labor and the doctor told me the child would not survive childbirth. I thought it was a miracle when our daughter Krystal took her next breath and kept on taking them. She weighed 1lb 13ozs and had 3 complete blood transfusions the first week of her life. The next 8 months were emotionally draining on her and our family. She was shipped to Detroit Children’s hospital where she had heart surgery and 16 shunt surgeries on her brain in 8 months. She went blind from the oxygen and eventually had no real chance at life.  We worked with the doctors and made the decision to end medical treatment. I was 21 and spent most of the 8 months of her life alone sitting in the Ronald McDonald House terrified. I had no formal relationship with God but he still kept me. Michael was working full time and caring for a toddler with the help of  my cousin Tony Brown and some of the family. It was horrible. Krystal died within 15 minutes of being removed from life support, in her father’s arms smiling for the first time in her life. I was shattered in my spirit, but it was still us against the world.
Fast forward to the 90’s, I found out Michael was cheating on me , I was devastated in a whole new way. Of course I know men cheat but he was ignorant with it and disrespectful so I  grabbed ahold of my bootstraps and walked away from the only real family I had known.  I had no idea how I was going to make it and I still had no formal relationship with God.
I keep reminding you I had no formal relationship with God because I did not like church in any way.  I had seen church folk who were mean and hateful and I believed if that is what church does for you,  I’m good. This is the part where I will remind each one of you to encourage your brothers and sisters who are not in christ; speak to them with love.  I worked with a woman named  Joyce Skillman who ministered to me without trying, she always shared with me how good God was,  she encouraged me to seek him.  I always loved God but I was angry about the things God had allowed to happen to me so I was reluctant to reach out to him.  She always spoke to me about God’s love. My best friend Vincent Evans was another one, he  encouraged me to come to Ebenezer I was like oh no. ..no church for me.   
I was a mess,  my marriage was in shambles, I tried shopping my depression away and ended up deep in debt. I made terrible financial and emotional decisions.  My daughter was lost, she was used to the three of us being against the world and now we were against each other.  Everything was falling apart. One night I had a nightmare and God told me I would never get anywhere until I did what he said.  I woke up shaking.  I could not wait to get to work to see this lady name Patty Lane, she knew God. I told her my nightmare and she looked at me and said “What more do you need,  a burning bush? ” I said wow,  I think it’s time to find a church.  Of course I never  even tried but God knew what to do, he sent Vincent Evans to invite us to  friends and family day at Ebenezer. I packed up my shattered family and we dragged into Ebenezer . I can tell you it was a different experience.  People hugged us,  spoke to us and made us feel welcome.  The next week Michael got up got dressed and we went back.  We have been there ever since. 
I love Ebenezer because Jesus found me sitting there, broken. Bishop Knox taught me to have a relationship with God, not the church.  He taught me to take my problems to God and wait on an answer. Guess what happened, you know it. ..the devil was pissed. He attacked my family again.
Michael took a left turn back to the streets.  Getting high,  gambling, selling drugs,  women,  the whole nine.  I kept trying to figure out how to end my marriage but keep my relationship with God. I prayed and cried and prayed and cried and cried and cried. There was a move of God inside reminding me to be still.  I keep wanting to act a fool but I couldnt. I realized if I did what God said,  he made a way.  I was humiliated so often by the women he was screwing. They  called me and people told me but I kept it moving. I held my head up and reminded myself that God said he would he fight my battles if I trusted him.  Bishop Knox preached a sermon on being OK in the middle of a mess.  I knew he was talking to me.  I cried for two days but I held my peace.   I’m still hood ya’ll so there was some bad days,  oh yeah but I knew who to act a fool with.  There were crazy days ahead. 
Michael went to prison,  I lost my house and my daughter moved to Atlanta. The three Amigos were officially seperated. In the meantime my mother died and then 5 months later  Michael’s grandmother died. I felt like everyone turned against me. Shirley Martin and Rejene Lewis, they held me down. I had God, Rej and Shirley,  my family and my sisters by choice. God kept me,  he kept reminding me to be obedient and all would be restored.  It was hard and it was scary but I trusted him.  I trusted God when I wanted to quit,  I trusted God when I wanted to scream and cry, I trusted God when I was broke and broken.  I trusted God.
Did you notice what happened?  The three things that I declared at 17 I would never put up with,  I had to deal with?  But God.
My transition to a woman of God came with great sacrifice. I had to learn to leave my pride at the door. I had to learn to trust God no matter what the situation looks like.  I had to believe even when I wanted to quit; it was worth it.
Now I understand the old southern hymnal you will understand it better by and by. I had an unnatural attachment to Michael. Every struggle brought us closer and closer and God needed me to understand who I was individually.  Michael’s infidelity and all the terror we went through broke the attachment and I became a person in my own right. I was no longer Michael’s wife, Tawanna’s mother and Menia’s daughter, I became Sheveze. I learned who I was as a person apart from the  roles I was given. Once I learned to put God first and to love Michael unconditionally my life began to realign and now our attachment includes God.
God restored my family, he made a way for me to have a new home,  he restored me and healed me in places I forgot was broken.  I had to humble myself and trust God in every situation. The work he is doing in me is worth every heartbreak,  every trial and every tribulation. 
My transformation is still happening but I’m stronger with every tear. 
My brothers and sisters, you will have many kinds of trouble. But this gives you a reason to be very happy. You know that when your faith is tested, you learn to be patient in suffering. If you let that patience work in you, the end result will be good. You will be mature and complete. You will be all that God wants you to be. 
James 1:2-4 ERV

  

Week 3 of our series on Transforming into a Woman of God. We have the pleasure of hearing from The creator/founder/owner of Daughter to the King!! Kyona McGee!! Please read below as she discuss how to deal with being in a dry place. When everybody around you seem to have it together and you’re sitting there like umm God, hello have you forgot about ME!!! You will be blessed, because I was!!

Have I reached my plateau, or is this just a dry transition season?
When everyone around you seems to be flourishing in their careers, relationships or academics, while you feel like youʼre stuck in a rut, itʼs a common theme to ask yourself, “Have I reached my plateau, or is this just a dry transition season?”
Iʼm here to command that you tell Satan to back out of your ear, and have several seats.
You have not reached your plateau until you meet Jesus, and undoubtedly this is simply dry transition season — But fret not, it too shall pass.
Iʼve been there, Iʼll share the key to getting through it.
I was once stuck, so over nothing “BIG” happening for me, tired of hearing about everyone else “living their dreams.” Oh, and donʼt let me hear about someone going to law school. *insert red emoji face* You talk about make my skin crawl….. honey that would do it!
I was not in a good place spiritually or mentally. It was my dream to go to law school, but I was not accepted, so I was working a regular 9:00-5:00. I was making a difference, I was getting paid “good money,” had an amazing boss… but I was not happy. I was not passionate, I was stuck. I felt like my best days must have passed me by without my knowing. Little did I know, God was shifting around pieces in my favor, behind the scenes to allow me to live the life I know he created just for me.
Years later, after getting married, and having a beautiful daughter, I was randomly (and when I say completely random… I mean random!) accepted to law school. According to the academics office, their admission requirements had changed and I was able to start the upcoming fall! God made sure I had the $10,000 to pay for classes, and the arm and leg it costs to cover my books! How? The same way he turned water in to wine…via a divine miracle.
Now, how did I not give up during that season?
To be honest, I did give up on it. I really began to think that maybe it wasnʼt the plan he had for me and I just needed to learn how to be okay with that. But isn’t it funny that God already told us that he will be faithful, even when we are faithless? (2 Timothy 2:13)
Its human nature to feel stuck every now and again, but it becomes sin when you begin to doubt God and His character. He said that He “has a plan for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you.” (Jeremiah 29:11). He said that He would keep no good thing away from those who do right. (Psalm 84:11). He said that He will instruct thee and teach you the way to go (Psalms 32:8). His promises are endless but they come with the condition of obedience. Your obedience will get you through this. I know that’s furthest from what you wanted to hear, but I’d be wrong from telling you the key is anything else.
The Bible says that obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22); So when you are tempted to go down a different path, when you’re tempted to get jealous of your friend’s growth, or when you find the success of another equates to pain for you… Check yourself.
You will fall short from time to time. You’ll have to cast down thoughts sent to you by Satan often, but don’t let bitterness become a way of life in this season. Admit that your wrong, and then crack open that Bible to meditate on His plans for you. Your time is coming. He is planning a great reveal on your behalf, but if you never learn to clap for others, you’ll find yourself lonely in a silent room when the curtains are finally pulled open for you.
Remain obedient, love.
Greater is coming

Listen I’m not gone say too much!! This week two on the Topic of Transforming into a Woman of God.. We have the honor of hearing from Dr. Ashley Green!!! Please read below as she discuss “What happens after the transformation?” I was totally blessed by this blog and you will be too!❤️

 Last week, Minister Angela Hood spoke about detaching from the unfamiliar while transforming into a woman of God. You might ask, what does transforming into a woman of God look like? A woman of God should be committed to following God and His ways (in her thoughts, decisions, words, and actions). Becoming a woman of God is about seeking God’s word and living according to it. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” This means we should consult with God regarding our decisions, thoughts, responses and actions. Before we react, we need to stop and ask God, “What would You have me to do or say?” Being a woman of God is trying to be obedient to God. There should be something different about you. As God begins to direct your life realize that “if any man be in Christ, (s)he is a new creature; old things are passed (2 Corinthian 5:17). As you begin to live more Christ-like, some things and people won’t be appealing anymore. Some places won’t be fun or comfortable anymore. When God has called you to a higher standard, you will be set apart and that is OK. People shouldn’t be comfortable to do and say just anything around you. People should know that you are a woman of God by the light that you shine in dark places.  

 So once you’ve made the transformation into a woman of God, and begin to live and operate like a woman of God, how do you deal with the things that come along with it? At first I was honored to be invited to write for the blog but then I admit, I got a little nervous, apprehensive, and very doubtful. I don’t claim to be a minister or preacher so how could I write a Christian blog and be as effective as the minister who had gone before me? Then I realized that this opportunity may indeed be a part of my transformation process. God will put people in your life to help push you to your purpose and help you cultivate your Godly gifts. Always remember that God will make room for your gifts; and when you are weak he is strong.

 I was asked to discuss how to not be ashamed of God’s blessings. I was hesitant about this topic because I am actually still learning to embrace my many blessings. I have often downplayed my achievements because I never want to come across as bragging so I rather just not discuss, and let my work and accomplishments speak for itself. By the grace of God, I’ve always been a high achiever and accomplished everything I set out to do. There wasn’t a goal that I didn’t meet, a competition I didn’t win, or a material that I didn’t own. Most would celebrate that, but I always felt pressure because of the expectation that everyone has. It can be overwhelming and exhausting at times. But every time I am exhausted I am reminded of the scripture “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12). Nothing resonates more than the phrase “people want what you have until they learn what you did to get it. You don’t know how hard I worked, the sacrifices I made and how much I prayed!” Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. When you focus on God and his plan for your life, blessings begin to flow. Psalms 37:4 says “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. I find comfort in knowing that God wants to bless his people. 

 In my reading I learned that God desires us to enjoy our blessings while using them to bless others. The Bible teaches us that we are blessed not just so we can be happy and comfortable, but so that we will bless others. God told Abraham in Genesis 12:2, “I will bless you … and you will be a blessing” (NIV). When we bless others, God continues to bless and take care of us; and blessings don’t always have to be financial or material. You can bless someone emotionally, spiritually, or physically simply through your prayers, presence, and support. 

Transforming into a woman of God will bring many blessings but realize that things aren’t always going to be great. When things get rough, tough, and stressful, (and sometimes they will), remember God is not punishing you but preparing you for something greater. There will be challenges. God never promised sunshine without rain or happiness without pain. When in times of trouble don’t let your faith waiver. Know that “all things work together for the good of them that love God, who are called according to [his] purpose (Romans 8:28).” Whatever you go through during your transformation, know that it’s ALL working together for your good. For the purpose to build you, strengthen you, and develop you into who God called you to be. 

 Don’t be ashamed of the things that God blessed you with. Your life can be a testimony or motivation for someone else. Let others see that you don’t have to struggle. You can be prosperous. You can be happy and in love. You can be successful in your career and have a family. You can be a woman of virtue, a woman of God! Still understand that trials may come but trouble won’t last always. God will give you double for your trouble. There’s always a rainbow at the end of the storm so let your light shine. YOU ARE BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING!

With Love, 

Dr. Green

  
  

 

 

For the month of August we will have four wonderful women discuss with us the transformation into being A true Woman of God. This week I’m like bubbling over with joy as Minister Angela Hood speak to us on the transformation process!! As you’re reading simply ask yourself “How is your current situation working for you?”

So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord- who is the Spirit makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT
Transition and Change … no one want 

 to deal with these items. We dream of a better life, we want better and many of us may even yearn for something better. This hunger can take us to the point of experiencing the unsettled discomfort of where we are. There are some that will lose sleep and even others that their very bodies will cry out when the place that they are does not line up with the place that they are called to be. Isn’t it wonderful how God equips us with an internal compass? Just like in the natural, a compass will always point north, in the spiritual and moral realm we have been “hardwired” with a device that let’s our spirit-man know when we are off course.You know just what I am talking about. At times this reckoning is so internal and private that it will probably not be the topic of casual conversation at the Saturday BBQ. It is often easier to discuss other people or events rather than to look someone square in the eye and recognize that the place/state/relationship/job or condition we are in no longer fits. Perhaps it never did. Maybe it was a detour. Or your growth and development warrants a new environment. Even if we do not admit it verbally to others or ourselves; when we are standing in the mirror and our own reflection stares back at us there is a knowing from our soul that resonates in our eyes, if we pause long enough to really see ourselves.
And this is where things get scary. We want better in our heart. Our mind knows that on a academic level better is possible. Our spirit is crying out for us to take posession of all that the Lord has in store for us. But our flesh – well, he is kicking and dragging. If he (our flesh) has been eating ice cream and fried fatty foods he’s not going to want to stop and eat fruit, veggies and a healthier diet. Unless the desire for something different exceeds the need to remain comfortable there can be no change.
When John the Baptist was telling people to “Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand” he wasn’t asking for everybody to say they were sorry. He was saying “Hey! Stop thinking that way. It’s not working. Learn to do things God’s way.” (Angela’s Revised Amplified FrFr Version). Before we even think about changing we must transition our thought process. Romans 12 talks about being transformed by the renewing of our minds. One of my favorite questions came to me courtesy of Dr. Phil. He often asks “how is that working for you?”. I love this because if what we are doing is not working it’s time to learn to do things differently. And if we are consistent in a behavior then we should admit that on some level it is working for us. Our mind must become renewed in the way we receive, process and value information. The Holy Spirit will challenge our way of thinking. He will either tell us, guide us into or show us a different direction through others.
Change is uncomfortable and requires inconvenience. We say we want to lose weight but do we want to exercise? We want to finish our degree but are we willing to attend classes, stay up late studying and read all the required material? We want healthy thriving relationships but that warrants vulnerability, communication, sacrifice and don’t forget boundaries. We want a deeper, closer walk with God but are we willing to turn off the tv, shut down the cell phone to seek and hear Him? All change costs. Are you willing to pay the price?
There will come a time when you look in the mirror and you will know deep within you that it is time. Anais Nin says it this way “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom”. Like a caterpillar inside the cocoon facing the appointed time: you will burst forth. It will be awkward and uncomfortable. It may even require pain or some type of force to thrust you into your blessed place. One thing I can assure you is that the experience you will have with God through the process is worth your discomfort! He will show you his faithfulness and mercy. An old hymn saying “time is filled with swift transitions…build your hope on things eternal- hold to his hand, God’s unchanging hand”. God is immutable, this means He CANNOT change (Mal 3:16). This fact makes HIM the perfect anchor to hold fast to while you weather any and every storm. You can count on him no matter what comes or goes. God has promised to never leave us or forsake us. He is our real #Day1 and always down for you -remember that and stay open to learning His way!
From glory to glory … keep the faith!
Rev. Angi