Devotions for Divas

FEEL GOOD FAST

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 10:50:11 -0400

“let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit” -2 Corin 7:1

It was tough, but so worth it. I needed to be ready, so I did a raw food fast. My photo shoot for promotional photos was scheduled for the following week. I wanted to be body beautiful, have glowing skin, and great energy. Nothing but fresh fruits, veggies, nuts (for protein), detox tea and water for me.

After one week I had lost lots of weight! I had better focus, glowing skin. It was amazing. My trainer said, “that’s what happens when you rid the body of the contaminates of fried foods, fats, and unnatural sugars. It functions better.” Wow!

It made me think about what kind of fast my spirit needed. How would a week free of secular music, TV, or even unhealthy thoughts and conversations lift my spirit and realign it with God? These are like contaminates to our spiritual well being.

Try a fast for yourself. Whether for your body or your spirit and be amazed at the results!

LOST IN TRANSLATION

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:51:00 -0500

With all thy getting get understanding (Proverbs 4:7)

lol. rotf. btw. jic. b/c. abt2. We have become a shorthand nation. Though I am a huge fan of txtn (texting), I’ll admit sometimes I need a translator to decode some of the messages I get. Especially from my teen DIVAS…lol. I think they invent new short hand ways of saying things every day.

With shorthand masquerading for words and smileys mimicing emotions, it’s no wonder understanding gets lost. Being lost in translation can be detrimental to any connection; especially our connection to the Most High. The language of God is often decoded in life’s lessons and experiences, hidden in conversation with a friend, or whispering within the message of a song or movie.

It’s there, and if understanding the Father is what you want, simply seek and listen and you will find it. There are teachable moments all around you, to help you understand God, your self, and your circumstances better. In all thy getting, get lost in His translation of who you are, and where you are in life, and as my Mama Diva often says, “you’ll understand it better by and by”. -xoxo

PASS & PERSEVERE

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:27:00 -0500

You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance (James 1:3)

I remember taking the ACT test to get into college. It’s not the kind of test you can prepare for, study for, or cram for. It tests the comprehensive knowledge of things you should already know based on years of study, and it calculates your readiness to go to the next level in the education process: college.

My life, over the past few days, feels like an ACT test, calculating my readiness to go to the next level. I am now thanking God for daily devotions, praying without ceasing, and the willingness to follow His leading, daily listening for His voice, and seeking His face; I have been taught by the Master, and I am prepared for this test. These daily disciplines shape the comprehensive knowledge of GOD that shapes my faith.

I can endure seasons like this, persevering through trials, answering the multiple choice questions of life, and even handling the tough essay section, all while God seems silent. It reminds me of something my Pastor (Rev. Keith Norman) says, “The teacher usually doesn’t talk to the student when they’re taking a test.” Prep daily, pass gracefully, and persevere. -xoxo

BIFOCALS

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:28:00 -0500

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you (James 4:8)

I remember thinking, “Uugh…bifocals, so not cute!” My optical diagnosis: near and far sighted. Back then there were no progressive lenses; You got the old school lense with the line in the middle. It got a lot of laughs, and over time I trained my eyes to see clearly with out them.

Over dinner with my mentor, I realized she felt like my optical diagnosis, near and far at the same time. “I’m in the middle of this thing, and I see God moving, I feel Him.”, she said. ”I’m far from where I used to be, and nearer to Him than I have ever been. I smiled inside, because I felt the same.

We are all under construction, in transition, continually evolving, growing day by day, learning, and drawing near to Him. We have drawn the line between who we used to be and who we want to be. It’s not an invisalign, either. It’s that visible line down the middle of your past and your future, and God wants everyone to see.

IT'S COMPLICATED

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:35:00 -0500

My thoughts are not your thoughts, my ways not your ways (Isaiah 55:8)

I’ll be 35 this year, single, with no kids. Was it supposed to turn out this way? With every passing year I accept the fact that it may be this way, for better or worse. As much as I adore kids, and crave the connection I can only imagine comes within marriage, this surely wasn’t the plan, but it’s the reality. It’s complicated. I’m a single lady, and no one has put a ring on it…yet.

The “yet” is a small but powerful word for me. You see, it is filled with hope and faith. I honestly began to think, “Im far too complicated for anyone to understand, for anyone to deal with. My life, my grind, my mood swings….honey, complicated! My thoughts were blocking me from seeing God’s good will for me. So thankful His thoughts are not my thoughts….

And so, this year, I have opened myself to love, to the possibilty of a thing. I now see it all around me; this love, appreciation and understanding I longed for. It’s complicated. It’s not in a tall dark and handsome package, with a sense of humor and impeccable swag (yet). But it’s love, from above, from a friend, from my mentors, from my mom, from my family, from a mentee, from my DIVAS, even from those who I least expect, and it’s all I need to get by. -xoxo

EXPIRATION DATE

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:11:44 -0500

To everything there is a season (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

“How do you know when it’s over?”, she asked. “I mean really over, no coming back, no letting him come back; really over.” They had been dating on and off for ten years. She expected a ring, and he expected her to stay. I could see hope crushed in her eyes and I tried to console her. ”I’m mad at him, but more mad at myself. I can get another man, but that time, all that time I waited for him, can’t get that back.”

I suspect thier expiration date had come and gone. We have all heard the cliche phrase “reason, season, lifetime” but when it’s our job, our relationship, our family, our whatever; emotional attachment, personal sacrifice and investment all make it hard to let go. We find ourselves holding on to things that have long expired.

Just like milk sours past it’s expiration date, so do some life situations. And when we hold on to them to long, it can stink up our whole life. Take inventory today, check the expiration date on the major components of your life, and if the reason or season has ended, muster up the strength to let it go. -xoxo

DIVINE DVR

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:53:00 -0500

I am with you always (Matthew 28:20)

You ever have those moments, when the light bulb in your head goes off, and you come to understand why you had to go through some things, why you had to meet some people, why you had to be in some places? I’ve had those moments all week. My life has played back like a Divine DVR, and I can see, feel, and know the presence of GOD in situations where I felt misunderstood and alone.

I think it’s hard to see GOD in some things cause we look for Him in all the wrong places. That’s what makes the journey so interesting, and the life lessons so profound. It’s unexpected; answered prayers coming from people and places, and out of situations you least expect, and in moments of reflection you know the victory and the breakthrough could only come from GOD; but for the grace of GOD.

If you find yourself in a weird place now, and you can’t see or feel the presence of GOD or understand why He is allowing certain things in your life to happen, take comfort in knowing that He is with you always. His presence is undeniable. And in those quiet moments of reflection, when the Divine DVR of your life plays back, I promise, you’ll see Him there. -xoxo

THAT PLACE

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:44:03 -0500

I know the plans I have for you (Jeremiah 29:11)

“I remember when I was in that place”, she said, “letting a man beat on me. Until I believed I could do better, be better, have better, I stayed in that place, then I believed, and left and never looked back.” I was getting gas on my way to speak on a Teen Domestic Abuse panel, and she was working the register. “I just thought if I left him, I would have nothing. But now, I have everything..never looked back”, she said.

Perhaps it wasn’t an abusive relationship, but we have all been in that place (dead end job, toxic friendships, financial struggles, etc.) and stayed because we didn’t think we could do better. It’s called settling for less, and a DIVA never does this; because she understands that God has plans for her, plans to prosper and not harm her.

Leaving that place starts with believing in His plan for you. Believing even when you can’t see it; having faith. You were never meant to be in that place, dealing with those issues, and getting caught up in that drama. Believe in Him, believe in yourself, LEAVE THAT PLACE AND NEVER LOOK BACK. -xoxo

FEARLESS

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:47:02 -0500

Be strong and of a good courage (Deut 31:6)

Speaking to crowds I can do, but the tough one-on-one talks are not my forte. But the air was thick and needed to be cleared. It should have been a simple conversation, but it wasn’t. At least not for me. Speaking your heart should be the easiest thing in life to do, but on the other side of that speech is the receiver’s response. Trouble is, you have no way of knowing how they will respond, or if they will even respond at all.

I’m sure biblical prophets often felt the same. Ordered to speak the Words of God to people who may or may not care, and probably wont like what they hear. It takes courage to say the things that really matter, to open your heart, to speak your mind, to hold up a standard, to say, “Thus saith the Lord…”

Overcoming the fear of the “what ifs” and the “they mights” is never easy, and may never fade. But a true DIVA exhibits courage in the face of fear. I am convinced that being fearless is not the absense of fear but the presence of courage. Be strong and fearless DIVA, say what must be said, do what must be done, and leave the rest to HIM. -xoxo

FABULOUSLY FLAWED

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:52:00 -0500

You have searched me, LORD, and you know me (Psalm 139:1)

Hers was a voice that touched millions, spanned several generations, and often left audiences in awe; she had a gift that could only come from God. Her talent beauty and charm lifted this small town Jersey girl to worldwide, iconic celebrity status. Her music made us move, motivated us, and served as the muse for many of the r&b and pop songstresses we enjoy today. Her talent and musical legacy will never be denied. She was fabulous, yet she was flawed.

As I think of it, most of the people God chooses to do great things for him are flawed. For example. David, great leader and worshipper, loved the ladies…lol. Noah, who was obedient and built the ark, had an alcohol problem. Then there’s you and me; chosen by God but each with our own struggles, problems and flaws.

The life and legacy of Whitney Houston reminds me that greatness doesn’t come in a perfect package, but a willing one. We have to be willing, even with all our imperfections to share our gifts and talents with others, thereby bringing glory to God. It’s his choice, but our decision. So serve Him, represent Him, and bring glory to his name…flaws and all. -xoxo

FRONT LINES

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:31:00 -0500

I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:2)

Saw the movie Red Tails last night, a movie depicting the famed Tuskegee Airmen, the first black unit trained to fly for the military. The movie is based upon their desire to make a contribution to the war and their ambition to become decorated war heroes. The plot strikes the tension between what they want to do and what they have been called to do. They want to be on the front lines, but their orders are to protect those on the front lines.

Their mission was to prepare a place, to set others up for success. Christ does this for us, He gives His life, the ultimate sacrifice, to provide us with many possibilities during our life on earth and a place to dwell for eternity. This was His calling, to prepare a place, and He made history. So did the Tuskegee Airmen.

Do your best in whatever position, job, or situation you find yourself in. Not everyone can be on the front lines. Sometimes your role is to be the person to prepare a place for those who are. You never know whose life you will impact just by following God’s orders and doing what you have been called to do. Your obedience will put you on God’s front line, and that is the perfect place to be.

SHOW ROOM

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:57:00 -0500

How beautiful you are my beloved (Song of Songs 4:1)

I had dinner with my cousin last night in her place. Every room was filled with beautiful furniture, unique artwork, and vibrant with color. She had only been there a week and the place looked like an HGTV makeover. Her energy and creativity flowed through every room. It was clear that she loved this new space so she filled it with things she loved. It was her show room.

It dawned on me God feels that way about us. He dwells in us, and fills us with beautiful gifts & talents, His energy and creativity flows through us, and we are filled with His love. He delights in us. We are His beloved. We are His show room.

The goal is to be like our Heavenly Father in all things. He finds us beautiful and desires to show us off. So dont ever hide your beauty, your abilities, or shrink yourself. This is not God’s will, and brings him no glory. You are God’s beautiful creation inside and out, so open up and invite others in to see the “show room”.

PRESS FORWARD

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:05:00 -0500

They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” (Mark 14:32)

Yesterday was that kind of day. Cape blowing in the wind and “S” on my chest. Just call me Superwoman. I was in a “no fail” zone. But inside, I was just trying to keep it all together. Personal problems and professional deadlines colliding in one busy day. I felt stretched and pressed, and I knew God was up to something. I had to press forward.

When Jesus felt this way, he asked his disciples to retreat with him to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Why Gethsemane? It was the place where olives are made. The name actually means “olive press”. You see, in order for us to enjoy olive oil, olives are put in a press device to squeeze out all the oil. This same oil is used as sacred anointing oil.

Perhaps your problems are just an olive press. And as you retreat to the Garden of Gethsemane in your life to pray, imagine that you are an olive and God is pressing the most sacred oil from you, He is pressing you toward becoming your best. Just pray and press forward….-xoxo

HOW BAD

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:35:00 -0500

Do you want to be healed? (John 5:6)

My trainer pulls no punches. He doesn’t care about what I did the night before, how tired I am from my week, or how sore my muscles are from the last workout. At 7am he wants total focus on the weight loss goal that I set, and commitment to the work it takes to achieve that. As a matter of fact just when I complain about how many reps or how much weight, he adds five more, and asks “How bad do you want it?”

It’s true that nothing worth having comes easy. The amount of sweat and tears you are willing to put into something actually determines it worth. When you work hard for something you definitely appreciate it more than if it is given to you. Jesus understood this. which is why he often asked those who made a request of Him, “How bad do you want it?” (i.e. Do you want to be healed?) Are you ready for this blessing that you want, and everything else that comes with it?

Don’t lose heart, let life’s demands, or even derailed plans stop you from achieving your goals. It’s worth all the hard work, effort and sacrifices that you are making. And when you feel excuses, procrastination or fatigue creep upon you, add five more ounces of effort and ask yourself, “How bad do you want it?” -xoxo

DEFINING MOMENTS

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:34:00 -0500

Who do you say that I am? (Matthew 16:15)

I get to interview some phenomenal women in my role as editorial director for Diva by Design Online Magazine. My latest interview was special because I knew this DIVA, went to college with her, and pledged AKA with her (skee wee sorors). She has supermodels, major magazines, and New York fashion’s “Who’s Who” wondering who she is, where she came from, and how she achieved her success.

So I asked the question, “What tips would you give for success in the fashion industry?” Her answer inspired me. “You have to put God first”, she went on to talk about the importance of faith and that she was currently reading the story of Joshua for motivation. In that moment, to all who wondered who she is, she defined herself as a woman of GOD.

This DIVA understands that our defining moments happen when no one is watching, checking or listening. It’s our commitment to spiritual discipline, our priority list, and our putting God first. It’s the first five minutes of our day and the last five before we drift off to sleep. These moments shape the decisions we make, and the actions we take. May your defining moments be based in faith. -xoxo

IN JOY

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:02:00 -0500

My soul shall be joyful in my GOD (Isaiah 61:10)

I watched a great movie last night called “Morning Glory” about a girl who lands a job as the Producer of a failing network news Morning Show, and has to work with difficult lead anchors, a team suffering from low moral, and a boss who has very little faith in her ability to turn it all around.

It seemed like a hopeless situation, but she took it on with such enthusiasm and optimism you couldn’t help but root for her the whole way. Her positive attitude and sheer belief in herself and her staff helped her to lead the failing news team to victory.

GOD can take a hopeless situation and make it a success story. As you lead DIVA, remember your natural efforts are multiplied by a supernatural force. The power of God is with you, to overcome, to win, and to succeed. Take joy in that! -xoxo

BROKEN LIGHTS

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:02:00 -0500

He took the bread, gave thanks, and broke it (Luke 22:19)

We were sitting in the dark, and I was terrified. The storm was raging outside and we were all trapped in. It was meant to be a quick trip to the party store to grab some balloons, napkins and party favors. But heavy lightning, loud thunder, and power outages derailed my plans. I was stuck in the dark with strangers.

Then, I heard a small cracking noise and then a small light appeared in the corner of the store, another crack, then another light. What was happening? The store manager began passing around this lighted party favor to some of us in the store. He told each of us, “you have to break it to activate the light.”

DIVAS are known for fierce style, flawless makeup, and the ability to do anything fabulously. Honey, we can pull it together. Truth is, people don’t always identify with this picture of perfection, since none of us really are. DIVA, you shine the greatest light, and impact the most people, when they can see the beauty of your brokeness. Don’t be afraid to let your light shine…

BETTER THINGS

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:02:05 -0500

Mary has chosen the better thing, and it will not be taken away from her (Luke 10:42)

As I glanced at my calendar for the week, I sighed. “How am I going to make it through?”. At closer inspection of the meetings, appointments and tasks that filled the pages I wondered, “what could I have declined or put off till next week?” It was time to prioritize, or better yet to use a two letter word: NO.

It’s a word I seldom use, beacuse it’s a word I seldom like to hear. But the reality is, when the demands on a DIVA’s time are so overwhelming that she has little time to nurture herself, she has to access the POWER TO CHOOSE. Prayerfully, she will choose “the better thing”.

Things that nurture you, that help you accomplish your goals, or align with your personal mission/mantra…these are the BETTER THINGS. If your appointment book is filled with these things, then you can be sure you are on the right track. -xoxo

COFFEE CLUTCH

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:12:38 -0500

Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids right before you (Proverbs 4:25)

I was mezmorized. It all seemed to happen in slow motion. A fabulously dressed DIVA had gotten her five inch red bottom heel caught in a groove of the sidewalk. Wobbling ankles, swinging purse, scarf blowing in the wind and coffee cup in hand she struggled for balance, but to no avail. She stumbled to the ground.

As I rushed to her aid, she turned, eyes wide and sincere, she uttered, “At least I didnt lose my coffee!” Her coffee? I looked down and it was still in hand shaken up a bit, but still intact. She cared more about this coffee than personal caution or comfort zone. It was clear where her focus was this morning.

What in your life deserves this kind of focus? The kind of focus that throws caution and comfort zone to the wind. It’s the thing in your life that, within all your power you wont allow to fail. THIS THING IS YOUR PASSION, clutch it tightly….-xoxo

WATCH THE THRONE

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 13:13:18 -0400

I recently checked out the new Kayne West and Jay-Z collab project. Both hip-hop artists liken their reign of leadership in the music industry, topping billboard charts, digital album sales, and Forbes wealthiest lists, to that of ruling a dynasty or kingdom. They are imploring their colleagues, competitors and the world at large, to check their movement, their skills, their bravado: to watch the throne.

While the duo has produced some great music, that’s not the throne I’ve been watching these days. With unemployment rates skyrocketing, economic shifts, and life’s many melodramas, if I focus on what’s in front of me id be filled with doubt and despair. Instead, I choose to see in the spirit, look for His leading in my life, and the watch the movement of His kingdom. I’m watching the throne.

This is where I find my hope these days, in things unseen. I am comforted when I see the successes of others, when I see doors of opportunity open that would otherwise be locked, when I see healing, and hope in lives with hard knock realities, I smile, because I know, He is on the throne.

Affirmation: I will look toward Heaven for my hope and my help, where my King is on the throne.

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