Women's Prayer Breakfast - Kansas City, Missouri

As promised, Sis. Teri's Notes from the Women's Prayer
Retreat on January 30, 2010 at Macedonia Baptist Church
in Kansas City, Missouri

I. Our Father which art in heaven

i. His your “Abba” father (Romans 8:15)

ii. Your source; personal access (Hebrews 4:16)

Point: Comes as his baby girl; his daughter as well as His creation

II. Hollowed is your name

i. He is holy

ii. Accessible – but still GOD of the universe

iii. Come boldly in faith, yet humbly

Point: Remember how mighty, powerful and holy He is.

III. Your kingdom come; Your will be done

i. His kingdom: God’s rule here on earth

ii. God’s rule in YOUR life

iii. King over your future, hopes, dreams and will

Point: Surrender your will to Him…it’s all about Him!

IV. Give us this day, our daily bread

i. Asking for what you need for immediate future
ii. Leave your long-term future to Him

Point: Ask for what you need in the immediate; take no thought from tomorrow.

V. Forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors

i. Confess sins, ask for cleansing and forgiveness (1 John 1:9)

ii. Intercede for those that hurt you (Luke 6:28)

Point: Ask forgiveness and intercede during your prayer

VI. Lead us not into temptation

i. Lead me away from pitfalls, traps (Psalm 64:2, 2 Corinthians 2:11)

VII. Deliver us from evil

a. We’re in a battle (Ephesians 6: 10-19)

b. God provides escape hatch (I Cor. 10:13)

c. Your deliver; strong tower, mighty defense (Psalms 18:2)

Point: Pray God’s deliverance and protection

VIII. For yours is the kingdom; power and glory forever

a. Praise Him for who He is

Point: Incorporate lot of praise and worship into your prayer.

B - body
L - Labor
E - Everyone around
S - Spiritual Growth
S - A Christian Social Circle

A Woman of Godly Influence

Women In the Bible Series: Article 1

A Woman of Influence…Naaman’s Wife’s Servant

First introduced to us in II Kings 5, Naaman was commandeder of the King’s army. Such a position rewarded him great societal significance. Nevertheless, he had a weakness: he was a leper. Leprosy, in that time, was somewhat equivalent to AIDS in the 1980’s. It was repugnant and loathsome to many.

Kidnapped, But Not Forsaken

Living in Naaman’s prestigious household was a young girl; likely stolen from her own home to be a maid to Naaman’s wife. One day while working, she made an astounding statement that would change this family’s life forever:


“I wish that my master were with the prophet who is Samaria!” Then he would cure him of his leprosy” (2 Kings 5:3)

Power to Move Mountains...and Men, too!

From that one comment- that one statement- this important man went to the king. Why would the words of a little servant generate such drastic action? How could someone so “insignificant” move the captain of a mighty army in such a way? There must have been something very credible about her to foster such consideration.

Now, remember the days in which she lived. In those times, women were held in very low regard. Children (especially female children) had even less social standing than women. Then add to the equation that she was a slave. Geez! She’s lucky anyone spoke to her! So, again, why did her words carry so much weight with Naaman?

"Where Does Your Secret Lie?

I think the secret lied in her day-to-day behaviors, habits and interactions. In my mind’s eye, I can see her carrying out her daily chores. She’s smiling because her hopes rest in the God of Israel. Although she had every right to weep, I envision her searching for ways to glorify God in her work and conversation. Had her work been shoddy, she’d have little influence with Naaman, but I’ll bet she did her work in dutiful excellence. For instance, she was probably not stealing post-its or swiping pens. She was faithful and trustworthy.

I imagine that she missed her mom and family terribly. But she recognized that her life was hidden in God and she chose to trust the Him with her future. Only then could she have the courage, confidence and influence to move one of the most powerful men in the country.

*Godsy Girl Check-up

What is your daily life doing for God’s reputation? What is it doing for yours? Live your faith daily in your work, ministry and relationships. If you do, you’ll be just like that little girl: a woman of influence, regardless of your status on this world’s scale.
Amen?

The Final Reason People Reject Christ

This is the final part to the Godsy Girl series “Five reasons people reject Christ”. Ironically, the final installment is the most difficult to write– because it cuts all of us.

After a lot of prayer, I concluded that the final and terribly significant reason people reject Christ is….us.

Years ago, a famous basketball player angered countless people when he denied being a role model. His success put him in a national and global spotlight. As a result, like it or not, he was a role model to millions.

On earth, just like that basketball player, we are God’s ambassadors. Like it or not. When we profess Christ, we begin wearing a spiritual banner that says “WANT TO SEE WHAT GOD IS ALL ABOUT? WATCH MY LIFE!” Scary, huh?

The main reason many people reject Christ is because they do not see victory or power in the lives of Christians. Our marriages fall apart just as theirs does – and for selfish, egotistical reasons. Our finances are just as bungled as theirs because we spend just as irresponsibly. Many Christians are oppressed and vexed just as severely as the unsaved. That’s not all: many times we are partying just as hard as they do. There’s little to differentiate them from us. So, why would they come to Christ? How can they be attracted to a God that cannot change our lives…. much less theirs?

Nobody’s Perfect

Now, I’m not saying that Christians should live perfect lives. No way - impossible. We make mistakes…same as everyone else. We’re not exempt from trouble because we convert to Christianity. But there has to be a difference...a distinction between our lives and theirs. We ought to struggle through trials differently than those with no hope. We must rely on different resources than they do. Instead of the "weed", we pick up the Bible for soothing relief. Instead of the bottle, we spend time in prayer until we know that heaven has moved.

If we serve a God that can renew our minds and give us power to live the fruits of the Spirit, then we must take full advantage of that help. Not only when trouble comes. We’ve got to utilize the power of the Holy Spirit everyday to conform us into the image of Christ here on earth. We’ve got to mature.

Show Them Jesus

When we make mistakes, we, as Christians, should be the first to say “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have behaved that way.” Or “Boy, did I make a misstep? Thank God for grace!!! I won’t do that again”. Or say “Wow! That’s not Godly, sorry”.

Always strive to walk in holiness, humility and be lead by the Holy Spirit of God. People don’t need perfection to be attracted to Christianity, but they need a standard. They need to see the power of God in our lives so much that they want it for themselves. They need to see power over fornication (sex outside marriage), power over hopelessness, and power over drugs and alcohol. They need to see power over moodiness, jealousy and insecurity. Hey, they need to see power over being a self-righteous church member. How about power to walk away when we’re mistreated? What about the power to love your spouse when he’s are unlovable? They yearn to see the power of Jesus Christ in our lives.


Where Do We Get That Power?

Praying regularly [and for a period of time] will give us the power we need to apply the Word of God to our lives. Praying on the “go” is fine; the Bible says we should pray without ceasing. How do we do it? We pray all of the time. But that cannot be the only time we spend with the Lord.

In order to walk in complete victory and close fellowship with Jesus Christ, we must invest our spiritual resources into quality time with Him every day. Jesus said that God’s Word is His bread. It’s ours too. Without bread we become weak Christians.

Make a habit of feasting with God and you’re strength and loving-kindness will draw others to Him! No doubt.

Want more witnessing tools? Visit "The Way of the Master"

Help all of us. What other reasons do people reject Christ?

Five Reasons People Don't Turn to Christ: Part 4

Excuse 1 Excuse 2 Excuse 3

Excuse# 4: “I don’t go to church because that preacher wants your money.”

Godsy Girl Answer: This excuse always cracks me up. Why you ask? Because it’s true! You didn’t expect that from a preacher’s wife, did ya?

Well, here are my thoughts:

People are more than willing to give money to Kohl’s, Macy’s and Nordstroms for what they feel will enrich their lives. But when it comes to strengthening their spiritual "muscles”, they want everything free!

Now, if you’ve got a greedy pastor that wants ONLY your money, you’ve have a problem. On the flip side, if you desire a pastor that will stand by you in trouble; come to see you when you’re in the hospital and counsel you through difficulty – he’ll need to be one hundred percent supported by the church. Otherwise, the next time you need him…he may be busy….at work.

Secondly, you go to church to worship, right? Well, you need lights, heat and air conditioning during the summer months. That costs money, Honey.

So, don’t be angry when your pastor encourages you to give. The Word of God tells you to give; not to judge. If you cannot trust your pastor with your money, how can you trust him with your soul? Think about it.


Disclaimer: I am not advocating for the pastor “pimps” of the world. I understand that some pastors parasite off of the congregants. That’s sad and dangerous. God will deal with them. A responsible pastor will have regular business meetings with easy-to-understand financial statements and disclosures to build confidence and spotlight accountability.

Amen?

Five Reasons People Don't Turn To Christ - Part 3

Excuse 3:“Hey, I grew up going to church”. I'm good.

Godsy Girl Answer: We’ve all heard – or said – this one before. Although, logically it makes sense, in reality it’s just a smoke screen. For instance, I grew up going inside and outside a garage on my way to school, but that doesn’t make me a Buick, now does it? Growing up in church means little.


The fact of the matter is the past doesn’t really matter at all. We must be concerned with where our relationship with Christ is NOW. When a person uses this excuse, it’s a way of rationalizes his/her own doubts. But after a little conversation, you’ll soon be able to explain the value of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ – right here and now.

Besides, everyone who claims the Lord will not be recognized by Him. We must know Him, serve Him and be convinced of our solid relationship with Him. (Read Mathew 7: 21-29)


The bottom line: we all need forgiveness, we long for a Friend that won’t abandon us and we hope for a bright future. God offers all of these things in one package!


So, as you minister to the lost, be patient, Godsy Girl. Listen and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you. Pray the Holy Spirit reveals to this person how much they need Him to live in peace, comfort and security.


Read John 15:15, John 11:25-26, John 5:24 and Jeremiah 29:11-13

Five reasons people don’t turn to Christ – Part 2

Read Excuse 1 Here

Excuse 2: “Christianity is a crutch, it’s for weak people”.


Godsy Girl Answer: First of all, let’s chat about what a crutch does. A crutch is a resource used to provide support when some a weakness prevents full functionality. Get where I’m going, Godsy Girl?

With that said, they’re exactly right. We, as human beings, are incredibly frail, weak beings. We require (and long for) the sort of supernatural support that only God can supply. Here’s how it plays out: in order to be genuinely strong, we must rely on and trust in God completely. Many people don’t have enough courage or faith to do that; but those who do understand me very well. In Him we live, move and have our being. No way around it. (Read John 15:5)


Without the energizing power of Jesus, you are destined to venture through life saying “There’s just something missing” and asking “What is it?” A lot of people mistakenly assume money will satisfy that worrisome powerless void – but it doesn’t. Other folks try one relationship after another to feel empowered – that doesn’t work either. Then there are those that try personal achievement to remedy that enduring emptiness – but they are soon disappointed.


In history, countless millionaires declared that money doesn’t fulfill the lingering void of humanity. Imagine that…with all the money, power or fame, their lives still lack “something”. Well, that “something” is Jesus Christ. No way around it. We so desperately need Him that an aching place in our depths actually long for Him.


There will be times in your life you will need Him as a crutch. Someone you love will die and you will need a Crutch. Your marriage will test your patience and you’ll call on your Crutch, Jesus. Your children may hurt you and you will reach for your heavenly Crutch. Disappointment, illness, financial problems and heartbreak are all Crutch-worthy too!


So, yep, Christianity is for weak people – just like you and me. I proudly admit my weaknesses apart from Him. I needed a Savior at Calvary and I need one every second of my day! Honest people admit that they do too!


Accept Him; invite Him into your life and watch Him blow your mind, Godsy Girl!

"Never work just for money or for power.

They won't save your soul or help you sleep at night."

Marian Wright Edelman

Five Reasons People Reject Christ – Part 1

Five Reasons People Reject Christ...
And Why It May Be Our Fault


Excuse 1: "Christians are all messed up themselves. Why should I follow Jesus Christ?

Godsy Girl Answer: Again, I agree!!!! I am a ‘hot mess’ without the convicting power of the Holy Spirit and the power of His Word. However, as the Holy Spirit gives me the power to walk in authority over sin, I grow stronger in Him. I don’t ‘mess up’ as much. I am no longer a slave to sin; instead I am more than a conqueror. I find that I don’t do the things I used to do; I don’t say the things I used to say and I have hope and peace I never had before!

The Word of God and the Holy Spirit are valuable tools to for victory over sin. Tools only work when you use them. Here’s an example: imagine you lost an important document on a computer because you didn’t save it. You could go around saying “Don’t use computers! They don’t work!” The reality is that you didn’t work the computer. It’s the same with Christianity. You have to work the resources properly to live victoriously. Christians that don’t spend regular time with the Lord tend to do “messed up” things. Simple as that.

I recognize some Christians have given God a bad “wrap”. Yes, you may have seen Christians regularly curse, be hateful and act crazy without apologizing or repenting. I’m sorry you witnessed that.

The lesson for you is to keep your eyes on Jesus Christ and who He is in scripture. Don’t focus on people and what they do; because people will fail you every time. Why? Because they (like you) are all messed up! Especially when we don’t work the tools!

We ALL need the Savior to make us whole in these “flesh and blood” bodies. The good news is that you can be made whole in Him. You can beat that addiction and master that sinful habit. Keep your eyes on the Author and Finisher of your faith – not me, him or her and you’ll be just fine.

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Fiery Trials – It’s all Natural

Have you ever noticed that animals behave certain ways because of their natural inclinations? For instance, dogs bark; cats meow and cows moo. It’s a natural part of life. Few things would be stranger than if a dog said “purred” and I wouldn’t want a cat’s milk! Dogs do what they are supposed to do. Nature, for the most part is consistent and I like it that way.


Likewise, an enemy in battle is going to do what an enemy is supposed to do. What is an enemy supposed to do? They are supposed to work relentlessly, tirelessly and feverishly to harm you and distract you so that they can win the battle over you. Just like cats, dogs and horses - it’s all nature.


Who You Are In Christ

Let me tell you, as a blood-brought child of the living God, you have an enemy. He’s not at all slothful about repeatedly attacking you any way he possibly can. It’s his job to try to prevent you from growing spiritually and even naturally. He wants your life. He is in a heated and timed battle for your very soul. He wants to win.


But let me tell you something you may know – or may even have forgotten in the battle. Satan is a defeated foe. Jesus Christ conquered Him on the cross and His victory was passed down to you! You are a joint-heir with Christ and in His name you are powerful and mighty! Jesus gave you authority to tread over scorpions and over all power of the enemy. Pick up your head and stand – after doing everything else – STAND!


Don’t Get It Twisted – Do it God’s Way

So, now you understand what your enemy’s nature is and know who you are in Christ. It’s time for you to do what is natural for you as a woman of God. Here’s the plan: you worship, praise God for the victory and keep on going in the Holy Spirit. Keep your mouth closed to negative talk and let God fight your battle. If your husband is acting up – keep your mouth shut, love him through it and pray. Prepare his meals with excellence; wash his clothes and do whatever it is you are supposed to do in your home and marriage. Pursue peace and do in the name of the Lord.

By the same token, if your co-workers are being hateful – kill them with kindness. Do something wild like bring them donuts one by one. (I’ve done it – it works!)

Perhaps, you are living with grief that aches to your very bones. Fight the attacks of depression and keep on trucking! Whatever the spiritual assault, you walk out your faith in the Word of God.

Listen Godsy Girl: you do what God says to do, bless your enemies and fight your battles on your knees. I know it’s difficult and I’m not telling you to do anything God hasn’t had me do time and time again. Trust me - through the power of the Holy Spirit you can do it. The very Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives inside you! You can do it! You can make it!

Don’t be surprised by the attacks on the enemy, Girl. It’s only natural for him to try to distract you from God’s work. On that note, you can expect the attacks as you are transitioning toward a deeper commitment to God and His work. I’ve seen it countless times – hey, I’ve lived it countless times. Don’t think it’s strange when fiery trials come as you mature spiritually. Instead consider it joy and worship God for the opportunity to build those spiritual muscles! That’s only natural for a Godsy Girl!


*I have quoted a ton of scripture in the blog post. Email me if you want references. Love you and hang in there!

A Song In Your Struggle

Have you ever noticed the quiet hand of God in your life? I have. Like you, trouble doesn’t always pass me by, but I’ve learned to look for his hand of protection and comfort during my struggles.

For example, when my oldest brother, Keith, died suddenly, I was devastated. He was my oldest brother, my adviser and my confidant. Seeing the pain my mother endured was difficult enough, but the personal loss I felt was excruciating and numbing.

He Comforted Me!

I know this may sound strange, but I don’t care; it is one of the most cherished blessings of my life. Here’s what the Lord did during my grief: He gave me the gift of fresh worship each new day. Seriously! Everyday following the funeral, the Holy Spirit would drop a new song of praise into my tired, dismal spirit. Some days the song was an old hymn from my childhood. Other days, the songs were more contemporary. It was amazing! I would wake up and before my feet hit the floor a song was welling in my spirit.

One day in particular, the song was Yolanda Adams’ “The Battle is Not Yours”. The timing was perfect because I was losing the fight against grief and depression. I was beginning to become “stuck” in my heartache. But after that song, I felt instant consolation. Encouraged in my spirit, I prepared for work, got into my car and turned on the radio. The station was on a jazzy oldies dial. Before I could turn it to my normal station (KLJC), the song “The Battle Is Not Yours” came on!!! I was floored! I couldn’t believe that song came on that station!

God ministered to my soul through that experience. His aggressive message to me was that I needed to just take each day and each moment one increment at a time. God would finish the battle for my joy and restore my peace.

Godsy Girl, look for His hand in your life today. I don’t care whether you’re battling marriage troubles, kid troubles, work troubles or health problems. He’s there. His comfort is surrounding you and the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised will guide you and comfort you (John 14:16).

God loves you so much and will “floor” you too with His faithfulness and presence.

Also read: 2 Chronicles 20:1-29

---

Lyrics: The Battle Is Not Yours(C)
Lyrics MetroLyrics

There is no pain Jesus can't feel
No hurt He cannot heal
All things work according to His perfect will

No matter what you're going through
Remember God is using You
For the battle is not yours, it's the Lord's

There's no sadness Jesus can't feel
And there is no sorrow that He cannot heal
For all things work according to the Master's holy will

No matter what you're going through
Remember that God is only using You
For the battle is not yours, it's the Lord's

It's the Lord's, yes, it's the Lord's
Hold your head up high don't you fright
It's the Lord's, it's the Lord's
Yes, it's the Lord's

Before You Complain...Read This.

Today I was tempted.

I fought the urge, but it was a very strong inclination. Here’s where it started: I got out of bed and began to rehearse to God a difficult situation in my life. I hoped that God would give me just the word I needed and a fresh dose of peace as I prayed. Then I heard the quick pitter-pats of my three year-old as he mysteriously appeared at the foot of our bed. His fluffy white “blankie” clutched tightly in his little hands, he hopped into the bed and positioned himself between my husband and I. “Prayer time over – at least for now” I thought.

Then I did it. I turned on the television to see the weather forecast.

My heart instantly sunk into my chest as I watched the turmoil, the pain and the devastation of the people of Haiti. The wails, the chaos and the destruction made me sad and… deeply ashamed.

You see, this morning I was tempted to whine about something rather minute in scale. I wasn’t going to tell anyone but my Lord, but it was “whiny” just the same. Then it all changed. Before I could ponder the words in my spirit, I caught a glimpse of real trouble and genuine pain. Suddenly, my pain was in perspective. After all, I woke up in my warm home. My bed was comfortable and I could easily raise myself from it with my own strength. No one had to lift me from it. I slept rather well because no one telephoned me in the night to advise that a loved one had passed away or fallen victim to a attack. Praise you Jesus.

I glanced over and saw my husband arise to head downstairs to seek the Lord in the morning hours. That’s a blessing-- a man that wants to know God and live by His standards. My three-year old is totally healthy, totally thriving gets into the bed of two Christian, loving and hard-working parents --another blessing easy to overlook. My oldest son is strong in integrity and living for Christ. He’s in college and feeling his way through the fresh throngs of adulthood with honesty. Wow! What a faithful God!

I could go on and on about the blessing of having a television or to be able to see a television with healthy eyes, etc. But I won’t. I will say, however, “Praise God” for our Savior. A Savior that can reach down from heaven and heal the hurting - anyone hurting. He can bring restoration to those that have lost everything and make new beginnings for the wounded. Hallelujah for a God – a Father – that invites us all to approach his throne of grace with confidence, so we may find mercy to help us in your time of need. Whether our problem be big or small. He’s a God close by and not afar off.

This day is about over. It’s Wednesday evening. No complaining - only praise to God that makes all things new and prayers for the people of Haiti.

Air in My Sail:The Power of Christian Encouragement

Imagine a ship that begins to slow down because the wind has grown too weak to propel it. You’ve seen it in old movies, one lonely ship rocking to and fro in the vast blue-gray ocean-not totally still but not progressing either.

That’s the way life can make us feel at times. The buffets (or punches) of the enemy, the spiritual attacks, and the dumb mistakes we produce can spiritually arrest us and we may feel like that forlorn ship. If I said that I never felt that way, I’d be lying. Troubles plague us all – it’s part of the journey.

But God, in His glorious compassion, meets us where we are and sends armed forces. It may come from personal insight you get from scripture. Or your pastor will deliver a fresh, “right now” word for just you. Other times, it comes fresh from a fellow Christian soldier. That is how healing and encouragement has been coming to me.

Last week, at Bible Study a dynamic, young Christian brother walked up to me, looked me in my eye and simply said “the race is not given to the swift or the strong, but he who endures to the end, Sister Teri”. It was as though God breathed a steady, continuous breath of air in my soul. I felt energized to run on. Hallelujah!

As you might suspect, the week brought new challenges and disappointments. Then I bumped into one of my favorite sisters in Christ at church. In between services, I had a chance to chat with her. She shared that Godsy Girl has blessed and encouraged her. Then it happened again, WHOOSH!!!- Another gust of air in my spiritual sail!

My husband often speaks about the encouragement of the saints in his lowest moments. Remember, no one is exempt from life’s pains. Even so, praise God for the “Barnabuses” wise enough to encourage the Body of Christ with a word in due season. Praise God for His people!

No matter what you are going through, Godsy Girl, your heavenly Father sees you and will give you exactly what you need when you need it and how you need it. How is God speaking to you? Watch for those little blessings this week. I love you, Godsy Girl!

"Without Him I could do nothing

Without Him I'd surely fail
Without Him I would be drifting
Like a ship without a sail"

“Endure hardship like a good soldier” 2 Timothy 2:3

Nothing to Fear in the New Year

Well, here we are – 2010. Already, God has demonstrated His faithfulness for the New Year. The scripture I embrace for this year is Isaiah 41:13 (NIV):


"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you."


The Living Bible says it this way:


"For I hold you by your right hand—

I, the LORD your God.

And I say to you,

"Don't be afraid. I am here to help you."


Regardless of the pain ushered in from 2009, God is available to help you. Further, no matter what challenges come in 2010, He will take you by the hand as a little child and guide you through the terrors, the loneliness, the struggle, the sickness, the disappointment, the uncertainty and the fear.

He's there -I mean here - for you Godsy Girl.