Defying The Odds

Wow, what an exciting time to be alive. Yeah, I know, the world’s economy has issues, you turn on the news and it’s mostly bad news, and people all over the globe seem to be in financial and personal crisis. What’s so good about living in these seemingly stormy times that we are living in? This is a good time to defy the odds. This is a good time to show that you are not defined by your circumstances, but instead are defined by something much deeper and greater. This is a time to embrace your dreams and show what you are made of. What God has put on the inside of you will alter your circumstances, impact the world, and give people the hope they so desperately need. This is the time for you to arise!

You may have been hit by several storms but see yourself as a palm tree. Strong winds blow and the palm tree bends because of its flexibility. However, you rarely see a palm tree break. It defies the storm. Trees that are bigger and appear stronger are often uprooted and tossed. Not the Palm tree. It has a cool sway and swagger to it. After it blows and bends in the wind, it arises back to a standing position. It is time for you to arise back to your standing position.

This week don’t be defined by the storms in your life, defy them. You will not break because of the strong winds. You may sway. You may bend and touch the ground but you will not stay down. You are arising to a standing position and you will stand strong!

“The [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like the palm tree [be long-lived, stately, upright, useful, and fruitful]; they shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic, stable, durable, and incorruptible].” Psalm 92:12 Amplified

It is finished!

Thoughts on Whitney Houston…

I have been asked many times this week what my feelings are on the death of Whitney Houston.  I haven’t said much about it because I think I am still feeling my way through it.  It is a tragic loss.   My heartfelt prayers go out to her family, who not only have to deal with her death, but have to endure the never-ending drama being played out on the television, radio,… the delving into every nook and cranny of her life and secrets. The media often forgets that Whitney, in the midst of her triumphs and tragedies, was someone’s daughter, mother, sister, and friend.

Whitney was an amazing gift with an amazing gift.  She had a richness and pureness to her voice that could not be described with words.  Only God could create something so universally powerful and beautiful. Her voice definitely was a part of the “Soundtrack of our lives.”  I can recall my lit’ nephew Devin (back in ’92-’93) sitting in front of the stereo mesmerized while listening to I will always love you & I have nothing (both from the Bodyguard soundtrack).  Who and what could make such a little boy (about 8 years old) feel so deeply?  (As a matter of fact, he is still a little angry at me to this day-20 years later- because he thought I took the CD.  He brought up the subject this past Christmas.  Lol.  It wasn’t me).

Whitney’s amazing voice reached down deep and touched every chamber of the heart.  You felt loved.  You felt the heartbreak.  You got the revelation that you could hasten to the throne of God.  You thought you had a friend you count on through thick and thin… a friendship that will never end. When you are weak, I’ll be strong, helping you to carry on… (My favorite Whitney Houston/Cece Winans song).  You danced your butt off and danced your heart out because Whitney wanted to dance with somebody! You felt all of her emotions because it seemed as if she felt all of yours.  What an amazing gift she had!

Interesting how people, whom you have never met, can not only touch your life but become a part of it through the power of their God-given gifts. For example, music is powerful. It is constantly with us as we journey through life.  We build relationships with the artists who seem to know the issues of our lives. I can easily recall different parts of my life just by listening to a song. I remember overcoming insecurities when listening to The greatest love of all by George Benson.  I recall trying to understand the loss of my Grandmother  when I hear Free by Prince. I remember my first love when I hear Feel the Fire by Peabo Bryson. I recall experiencing and overcoming what I perceived as my first failure when I hear Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose by Anita Baker.  I remember the crazy college days at Michigan State University, filled with laughter and funny people, when I hear House music, Boogie Down Bronx, and the timeless musical piece- Flashlight. I remember the joy and pain of learning who my real friends were and who they were not when I here Count on me by Whitney Houston & CeCe Winans.  I remember pressing through my first real pain whenever I hear I love the Lord by Richard Smallwood,…

It’s not strange to me that people who never met Whitney are grieving over her death.  She came into our lives at age 17 and remained right there in our lives until she died at 48. We grew up with Whitney’s music and her issues.  Through her struggles, many people, with all their hearts, fought for her, prayed for her, and wanted the best for her.  I know I wanted her to win, to overcome,  to resist the enemy and demons that invaded her life, to not compromise her God-given greatness, to understand her true value and make her decisions based on her true value and not by the value or definition people (including herself) gave to her or took away from her, to honestly recognize the real strength within, and to enjoy life as God created her to.  Did she?  Did she know that she was more than just a voice?  Was her life full of life, love, and laughter?  Was she at peace while she lived?  I don’t know.  I wasn’t privy to her intimate life.  I don’t really know how she lived or how she died. Whatever her cause of death, she left too soon.  She left us with a legacy of music that will always touch our hearts and live on forever, but I wished she had lived.

Let’s encourage one another to live and live well.  People are hurting. We must continually learn how to recognize when those around us are in trouble and we must learn how to address them- no matter who they are.  Who is crumbling in your circle and yet you don’t even see it?  Perhaps you see it and just figure they’d get through it because they are the strong one.  Who is hurting?  Listen, we have to fight for and pour into the lives of those who are around us.  We cannot be selfish- quick to receive from people without giving much back- especially if they don’t look like they need anything.  In addition, we have to appreciate the people in our lives for who they are without putting all of our expectations on them.  We are quick to make celebrities, idols, and even gods out of people and often times so quick to criticize or throw people under the bus when they don’t live up to our expectations.  I heard it said that “at the end of the day”, celebrities, pastors, and all the other people whom folks seem to put up on pedestals, are people.  But listen, people are just people- not just at the end of the day.  People are just people at the end of the day, the middle of the day, and at the beginning of the day.  We all have the possibility of  making a great contribiton/difference in the world around us as well as the possibility of going through great turmoil and crisis.

We’ve seen some tragic losses over the years- not just people in the lime light- but people in our every day lives. It makes us feel better to say, “It was God’s will” but I don’t believe that is always true.  I believe that many times God would have gotten a greater testimony had they lived.  I believe we miss the signs sometimes and people slip away from us- some quietly and some with a loud boom.  We often forget to show people how valuable they are.  We forget to tell people “You can count on me” and mean it.  We shy away from telling folks, ” Stop tripping! You can beat the drugs, the overeating, the alcohol, the depression, the recession, the divorce, the failures of the past, the pressures of fame, … I’m fighting for you and with you! You don’t have to live up to everyone’s expectations- know God’s expectations and that’s enough? I know you’re hurting but joy will invade your life once again- just hold on!”  We miss the signs and opportunities  and sometimes people slip away from us… they slip away.

When I think of Whitney, I don’t just think of Whitney.  I think of all the people who enter into our lives.  We all have value, gifts, and a unique purpose given to us from God- value, gifts, purpose that once realized and stirred up will change lives (including our own) and the world around us.  Whitney is gone, but we are still here. Her struggle has ended but we must still fight the good fight of faith.  We still have decisions to make concerning what life we will choose to live.  Will we resist the enemy that attempts to invade our lives?  What will our response and behavior be in the face of adversity?   Will we “live in peace before we die in peace (A Carmen Studer quote)?”  Will our lives be a testament of God’s greatness and glory?  Will we maximize or minimize and compromise the life God gave us?

Tomorrow is not always promised. Let us reach the end of our days- let us leave only after we have fully sang our song.  Let us not leave with lyrics still  left on the inside.  Let us make every effort to be who God created us to be and to live in peace, be happy, and take advantage of the opportunities to sing our song (whatever that song may be) in order to impact those whom God places in our lives.  Let us do it… while we still can!

Just some thoughts!

Wendy M. Reynolds

http://beautycomeforth.com

Yes, just like that!

This is my posting for today.  If  it is meant for you, you’ll get it! Stay encouraged as you stay in God’s presence and stay faithful!

Much love, Wendy

Just Remembering To Be Thankful!

Yep, I know that Thanksgiving Day is long past but how often do we really take the time to sit and reflect on those things that we are thankful for? How easy is it for us to go through the ups and downs and busyness of the day and forget to acknowledge that which we should be thankful for?

Life has not been perfect. Things didn’t always work out the way I planned or wished them to.  I didn’t and still don’t get everything I want when I want it. I have had some loses that caused my heart to break.  But you know what? I have so much to be thankful for.  I have wonderful family and friends in my life. I’m thankful for parents and siblings that I actually get along with and whose company I honestly  enjoy. I’m thankful that my parents never took back the house keys .

What else am I thankful for?  I can breathe.  I can see the sunrise as well as see the moon in the night sky. I have the ability to feel and touch. I have a mind that thinks. I can move. I can hear the sound of the abundance of rain. I have clothes. I have a vehicle and I can drive (despite what my brothers say!).   I have a comfortable place to lay my head at night. I can speak and communicate. I can own property. I can pick up the phone and call someone at any given time of day. I can enjoy the beauty of music. I have a career.   I live in a country where I am not confined to one particular space. I have skills that are useful and needed. I have running water and electricity. I have an education. I can go and open up the fridge and find food to eat. I can worship God. I have salvation through Christ! Oh, I’m thankful!

I want to Challenge you to have a Thanksgiving Life!  Take time- find time each day to be thankful for what God has done for you, given you and brought you through.  Write it down if you have to so when life challenges come and attempt to overwhelm you with discouragement or regrets,  you’ll have something to look back on and be reminded that God is good and that you have every reason to be thankful.  Have a mindset of thanksgiving.  Keep an attitude of gratitude toward God.  If you do, you’ll discover that life will be so much more enjoyable.

I am thankful for each of you who stop by and share in my thoughts.  I’m thankful for the impact and contribution that you make in my life.  I’m thankful for those of you who have shared in my laughter, my grief, my happiness and in my struggles.  I’m thankful for those of you who encourage me to be better.  I’m thankful for those of you who have stretched me and who continue to stretch me beyond what I thought was possible. Thank you for sharing in and believing in my dreams and for being a part of my world!

Wendy

Psalm 107:8
Oh, that men would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men!

Come On, Let’s Talk About It!

I was talking to a friend one day and she said, “People are always talking to you! Why do you feel the need to encourage people all the time?”  What?  Is she kidding? Does she know what is going on in the lives of people? Had she looked outside? Had she turned on her TV? People are hurting. Don’t we need encouragement? For a brief moment, I was offended. What are you trying to say? Are you saying I talk too much or that I am not sincere with my words? Or is it that you cannot encourage people because you feel you don’t have anything to offer or are too afraid to engage them in conversation?

Personal communication is becoming a lost art form. People just don’t seem to really talk to other people that much anymore. In today’s society, people are quicker to spend more time with a computer or a video game than hold a real conversation.  Fewer and fewer families are spending time sitting around the supper table talking to one another.  Many of our young people today have skills to do a job but can’t get through the interview to get the job because they lack the oral skills needed to express themselves and show their marketability. Strangers bypass each other on the street or sit next to each other on the train without speaking a single word.  I remember being in a hospital elevator with my siblings and a doctor stepped in.  The doctor and I struck up a conversation during our brief elevator ride.  When the doctor stepped off, one of my siblings said, “You will talk to anybody. How do you know she even wanted to talk to you?” My Mom heard  me doing a radio interview and also heard a recording of me speaking at a recent event. She said, “Girl, you know you can talk!  Of course I mean that in the most positive way. You know you need to be on TV or the radio or something!”  Now I don’t talk ALL the time. I’m no motor mouth.  I am a communicator.  As a matter of fact, a lot of the time I’m just listening. A real communicator knows how to listen.

As far back as I can remember,  I’ve always loved to communicate with people.  Some of my greatest memories are those of me sitting around the feet of my Grandparents listening to them and learning from their wisdom-learning about things that happened way before I was born. I loved to hear about their lives- the happy moments and the sad moments. People lead such interesting lives. I want to know what makes them who they are.  What is the real story behind the smile or the attitude? What have they gone through that has led them to this moment? And as far back as I can remember, people always seemed ready to talk to me- even strangers.  I remember walking into the gas station and the clerk started up a conversation and before you know it, he started telling me his life story. Before the end of the year, I knew the whole family history (a little more information with each fill-up. Hahaha). It seems to happen everywhere I go.  I’m not kidding.  I often jokingly say, “Do I have a sign on my forehead that reads, “I want to know your life story?”

I learned early in life that people want to be heard. A listening ear is a powerful tool. I discovered that being able to listen to people and redirect their thoughts back to them so THEY can hear THEMSELVES- hear their own heart- is a gift.  

I’ve also discovered that I love to engage people– not argue or debate– but engage, dialogue, encourage, and challenge them to possibly look at life from a different perspective in order to help them gain the revelation that they have the ability and the responsibility to walk in greatness and make a positive impact on the lives around them.

Listen, I’ve got something to say. I’m a communicator and a people person. I make no apologies. It’s a gift God gave me. It’s part of what makes me who I am.  Put me in a room with a single person or in a room full of people and let’s talk about it… about what? Life.  How can we make life better?  What was life like for you when you were a kid?   What’s really going on behind that smile on your face?  What is the secret of your success? What is the real source of your pain?  How can you teach me as well as others what you know?  How do you get unstuck and resurrect your dream? What does it mean to really forgive?  What does it really mean to live with integrity? Is your life an example of religiosity or true relationship? What’s your purpose? Who are you?

Being a great communicator might not be your life’s mission but stretch yourself and practice communicating.  Take time to talk to people.  Take even more time to listen to people.  You will be surprised at what will happen.  You will be suprised at what you can learn, what you can teach, and what you can become. Not only does being able to communicate make you more likeable and marketable but, ahhh…real communication fosters internal and external growth. It builds relationships, creates understanding, and changes the world!

Until next time, stay encouraged as you walk in extraordinary times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

http://beautycomeforth.com

CHECK MY FLOW!

I can hear it now… “Check my.. her flow?  What? Huh?  Wendy has done it.  Oh, Lord, she has launched her rap career! We thought she was just kidding! Somebody go grab that girl and bring her home!”  Hahaha!  Don’t get too excited (or  become too afraid). That’s not the flow I’m talking about. It’s kind of hard to explain but I’m in a different flow of life.  The way I do things has changed.  The way I deal with peolple has changed. The way I think has changed.  The way I feel has changed. You might blame it on getting older.  You might blame it on a changing spiritual walk.  You might blame it on finally being comfortable in my own skin again… I’m not really sure.  However, my flow has changed and I must say that I like it. When people (and situations) approach me with a bunch of negativity, I just say, “Check my flow! I’m not going in that direction. I’m going in a whole new direction.”  You can call me crazy, misinformed, deceived, in denial,… it doesn’t matter. The opinions of others just don’t matter to me any more. Don’t take it personal, just check my flow.  If you can flow with me, then that is fine.  If you can’t, then hopefully I’ll catch you on the other side. I’m choosing to stay positive and focused while I expect and know that God is working things out for my good (Romans 8).

Recently, we have been inundated with so many crises.  Tsunamis, hurricanes, earthquakes, and  massive storms seemed to have devastated so many communities and even countries.  The power of the wind mixed with the power of the water shook and washed away people, homes, communities, and landmarks that had seemingly stood forever.  People had to find a new way of survival- a new way of doing things.

Many of us have had to face our own personal storms where it appeared that everything that could have been shaken was shaken. Situations seemingly came and washed away our comfort zones.  Things that we were anchored to and put our confidence in crumbled-things like jobs, relationships, our bodies, financial institutions,… So many people have had to find to ways to survive and even new ways to look at life and at themselves. Some things had to be removed.  Some thinking had to be washed away.  Some idols needed to be destroyed. Some things we were anchored to were not solid enough to hold us.  Those anchors had to come up in order for us to rediscover a sure anchor and foundation. It led ao many of us us to the edge- to the brink of what seemed to be… ruin.  But listen at this. I was thinking about the Children of Israel and how they managed to make it into their place of promise after all the crazy stuff they had been through (slavery, fear, insecurities, being chased by their past, enemies, facing a seemingly uncrossable Red Sea, war, sin, losing faith in their leaders, complaining all the time, …).  As I read the book of Joshua, I came across these scriptures in Joshua 3.

“³When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God being borne by the Levitical priests, set out from where you are and follow it.

⁴Yet a space must be kept between you and it, about 2,000 cubits by measure; come not near it, that you may [be able to see the ark and] know the way you must go, for you have not passed this way before.

⁵And Joshua said to the people, Sanctify yourselves [that is, separate yourselves for a special holy purpose], for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.

⁷The Lord said to Joshua, This day I will begin to magnify you in the sight of all Israel, so they may know that as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.

⁸You shall command the priests who bear the ark of the covenant, When you come to the brink of the waters of the Jordan, you shall stand still in the Jordan.

An excitement burst on the inside of me like fireworks on the Fourth of July!  Here Joshua was leading a people who were tired and hurting (You have to read the whole chapter… the whole book for that matter). They heard the promise year after year but all they had been able to obtain to this point was the wilderness. They had left behind all that they knew.  They lost their families, friends, elders, teachers in the wilderness…  They had recently been cut and were currently lacking strength and personal power- feeling unprepared and on the brink. In all actuality, they were on the brink- on the brink of their promise!  God was about to “enlarge” Joshua and give Israel victory.

Verse 8 tells us what to do when we reach the brink. “When you come to the brink…stand Still in the Jordan.”  What?  Stand in the Jordan? You must be crazy! I’ll drown.  No you won’t.  Read Isaiah 43.  Stand still when you are feeling  at the brink. Don’t count yourself out or give up!  As you stand still in your Jordan (the thing that is seemingly standing between you and your place of promise), stand expecting God to do wonders (vs. 5). 

I encourage you to hear the words of God (vs. 9).  We have to be able to hear and know the words of God.  People are drowning in the situations of life because they do not know the word of God for themselves or because they have lost confidence in the word of God and are no longing declaring it over their lives.  Listen, listen, listen!  The word of God that you know and speak is your weapon, your road map, your comfort, and your answer.  It is what will change your thinking… change your flow.  Our personal methods will not get us to the place we are supposed to be- following the strategic plan of God will!  I don’t care how bright, talented, manipulative, or connected you are, only God’s plan will bring you to your place of promise.  That might anger some folks.  You might say, “Well, I have 4 degrees, I’m a gifted writer, I know someone in the business…” So what.  Look at the news.  Look out your windows.  See the shake ups on the jobs, in the market, watch a presidential debate… The answers are not “out there” or in “your“personal power. Obtaining God’s promises for your life is based upon your belief in, dependency on, and obedience to God and His Word. You’ll never reach your promised place depending on you knowledge and abilities.  The last verses in that chapter tells of when the people  carrying the Ark of the Covenant feet were in the brink of the waters, God caused the waters that flowed one to to rise up in another direction and the Children of Israel crossed over on dry land.

For me, that brought me peace.  For me, the Word lets me know that I am right where I am supposed to be.  All I have to do is follow the instructions of the Holy One- trust Him to get me in.  I have often tried to figure out why things seems so unfamiliar? Why can’t I figure stuff out?  Why can’t people give me any answers?  Verse 4 indicates having to travel a way you have never traveled before. We have to depend upon God to take us and get us through a path we’ve never been. Read the book.  God did for the children of Israel what was impossible for them to do for themselves.  He did it by HIS Spirit.  When we come to a place of realizing that He is going to do it and He is going to get the glory, your flow changes.  The rough waters smooth out and become peaceful.  An inner calmness and confidence returns. Things don’t move you as much.  The opinion of others don’t matter as much. Your cup that once appeared empty is now full to the overflow. You walk in grace. Your vision becomes clearer.

Listen, to those of you who are on the brink, stand still! Force yourself to get into the word of God and remind yourself of His promises to you.  I believe something amazing is getting ready to happen.  People may have been waiting around to see you go under but unbeknown to them and you, you are on the brink of the promise.  You may have lost somethings or even some people/relationships.  You may have started doubting yourself or whether you have what it takes to outlast the storm.  The place you stand may still feel like rough waters  but believe God- period!! I pray your confidence be in His ability and not in your own. I speak peace to your life.  I pray that the Spirit of the Living God will open your eyes, open your ears to hear His instructions, strengthen you, settle you, enlarge you and guide you into your place of promise.  As you stand still at the brink, I call on the streams of living waters to flow from the inner most parts of you (John 7:38) as you prepare to step over into the place God promised.  Here we go…

Check my flow!

Wendy M. Reynolds

Normally I do not share my journal entry but here is without edit “My Actual Journal Entry From September 11, 2001″

Wendy Marie Reynolds

On the events of September 11, 2001

(Journal entry actually written on 9-11-2001)

 

8:55am Unbelievable. A plane just hit the World Trade Center a few minutes ago.  Had to speed dial Mom, my sister, and a couple of friends to tell them to run to the TV.  They hadn’t heard yet.  I think I was calling them for confirmation of what my eyes are seeing.  I can’t believe it.  I had to push the record button on my VCR.  My Gosh.  How could the plane have gotten so off course?  What in the world?  I’m glued to the TV as I watch.  Lord, please help the people. Show Your miraculous power today.   I pray the plane wasn’t a full passenger plane.  Man, smoke is pouring out of the building.  Lots of people work there.  I know someone who works there.  I’m stunned.  Pray…

9:06am  Uuugh! My heart is on the floor.  I don’t get it….A few seconds ago, another plane hit the other twin tower.  I’m numb. I watched it as it happened.  I saw the plane fly right into the building.  Clearly this is something horrible and hideous and sinister.  Who is to blame? Who would do this?  Lord, please don’t let there be any passengers on those planes.  I feel like I’m in another world or watching a movie.  This can’t be happening but I’m watching it live.  Pray…

9:50am. I still can’t believe it and can’t pull myself away from the TV.  People running everywhere.  I believe I saw someone jump out of one of the windows.  News people in tears.  Confusion and chaos.  Firefighters, Police… Someone has attacked NY.  I pray my cousin Mark and family are ok.  Greg works in one of those Twin Towers.  Bush made the statement that we are under attack.  Rumors of another plane crashing into the Pentagon.  What can you do at this time but pray?  People are just in total shock. Here…in America.

I am now watching one of the Twin Towers literally begin to collapse into a pile right before my eyes.  Incredible.  God… it’s falling right before my eyes… This big tall building…Lord, did folks get out?  Another plane DID hit the Pentagon in Virginia.  Whew…

The 2^nd Twin Tower is now collapsing.  Jesus!  I’ve been praying…phone ringing off the hook. Sean’s family lives in NY.  Rumors of car bombs and other hi-jacked planes.  I can’t believe this.  I can’t believe I have to prepare myself to go into the office and counsel families already in crisis who will now have to deal with the insecurities and fears of today… How will I do it?  God, it will be only through Your power- Your strength.  Help me to put on Your strength today.  I don’t have any… I have… I have… nothing without You.   My heart is beyond heavy.  Wow, I just can’t type another word- not another word.

 11:15pm

I’ve been tempted not to write anymore in the midst of this tragedy- this attack on America- the possible loss of over 5000 lives- Mothers, Fathers, Husbands, Wives, Brothers, Sisters, Nephews, Nieces, Aunts, Uncles, Friends, Employees, Employers- every day people just going to work or taking a trip or trying to get back home to the ones they love-everyday people trying to live their lives like all of us- now trapped by debris, tons of concrete, consumed by smoke and fire, forced to face death- forced to be a tool to cause death- suffering what we can’t even began to imagine.  September 11, 2001.

The image of the plane (which we now know had passengers) soaring across the sky and plunging into the Trade Center as well as the attack on the Pentagon is fresh in my mind.  I sat there in my bedroom watching it as it happened live on television as I was watching The Early Show, preparing for my day, getting ready to cook my dinner to take with me to work…trying to eat healthy so I can live long… but…  Destruction/death before my very eyes.   The television news plays it over and over and over.  There is no need for me to flip the channel for it is on every channel.  Unbelievable!  Indescribable!  What about that 4^th plane that crashed or was it shot down?  Part of the time it seems unreal to me-like watching a movie or something. We had it on in the office, although Bev wasn’t keen on the idea.  But we had to know.  We needed to know.  The office was kind of quiet… clients in disbelief… staff in disbelief.  The world as we know it has changed. 

Will everything turn back to life as we knew it?  Probably not.  Will I get on another plane again?  Yes, but probably not very soon. Will I be overly aware when a plane crosses over our sky? Has America lost its innocence?  Was America innocent in the first place? What about the kids?  How are we going to explain this to them?  How will we make them feel safe?  Are we going to war?  Will they draft my soon to be eighteen year old nephew?  Will we win and at what cost?  Will there be another attack on us?  Am I afraid?  What is God thinking?  Has my faith been shaken?  There are so many questions!

On this day I think all Americans have discovered a new meaning to the words of our Declaration of Independence which states that all men are created equal.  No matter if we knew someone in the World Trade Center or the Pentagon, or on the Airlines or not, no matter what our race, creed or color of skin, no matter what the age or gender, no matter how big or how small, we have felt equally attacked, equally afraid, equally angered, equally hurt- although we may express it differently.  Although I am alive, sometimes I can’t help but feel as if part of me was on the 101st floor with Greg.  He went to work today just like me.  Is he alive?  Is he trapped?  Did they rescue him and we just haven’t heard?  Each time I see a person holding, clinching a picture of their missing loved one, my heart aches with unspeakable pain.  I’m literally left speechless.  I’m reminded that it could have been anyone of us- any one of our loved ones.  I pray for those trapped and for the families of those waiting to receive news on those they love.

As we search for answers, as America prepares to pursue our enemies who so boldly attacked us, I only hope that we don’t become like them.  I’ve often been described as or accused of being deep- a deep thinker. I have sat and pondered what would make people hate so much with such intensity and passion that they would want to do this- that they would teach their children to celebrate this American tragedy- this terrorist attack on our soil and on our soul.  But then it hit me- I don’t want to know.  I don’t want to understand because I don’t want to be tempted to- I will not- I refuse to be reduced to hatred.  I will not be brought down to their level.  Yes, I’m so angered and I want justice but hate will not consume me!

Hatred- this kind of hatred is an all consuming cancer.  It destroys the hater.  It eats away at the very core of their being until they have been reduced to absolutely nothing.  This form of cancer, unlike the ones we are aware of, is contagious.  It infects. It spreads. I n impacts- it impacts even the children causing a continual cycle of disease.   We must not let it infect us.

Over the last few hours, I have heard time after time on the news, where people on foreign soil have said, “They deserved what they got.  Now they know what it feels like.  The myth that America can’t be touched is put to rest.”  Yes, they attacked us, killed our people with our own people and planes.  They destroyed our buildings but they did not- they could not destroy or rob us of the things they envy most about us- our resilient spirit, our ability to hope when there appears to be no hope, our freedom-Yeah, our freedom.  They tried to terrorize us but I will not be bound and enslaved by terror when God has called me to be free.  They could not take away our love for our fellow man that continues to be demonstrated through the non-stop rescue attempts and through the outpouring of love and patriotism all across the nation.  Patriotism is not enough.  What they don’t realize is that we are a nation being called to repentance. We must answer that call. Our nation must return to our God.  A government that stood divided on many issues must now find a way to stand united in prayer.  We are many yet we are one.  We are America!  God bless America!  America needs to bless God!!

 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.  2 Chronicles 7:14

 

Dear God,

Awesome God, Creator of all things- You know my heart and the heart of all people. Comfort the hearts of the people of this nation that have lost loved ones and lost their peace and security. Wrap Your arms around us as we cry, as we stand speechless, as we attempt to comfort others, as we attempt to make sense of it all and move forward. Teach us what to say to our children so they won’t grow up afraid. Lead us and guide us.  Be our God.  Forgive us our sin.  Help us to seek Your face.  Let us regain our peace, security and our purpose in You.

God, You reign forever!  Let Your justice flow down like a mighty river.  In this horrific hour let us not be overcome with hatred and evil but let us overcome evil with good.  Let Your people rise up and be Your example.  Let us not be too quick to move or quickly moved by our feelings.   But let us only be moved after we have acknowledged You.  Let us be moved by Your word.  Let us rise up with a deeper passion for the things of God, a deeper sense of purpose and unselfish priorities.  We are Your representatives.  Let us represent You well. Let us stand boldly in confidence knowing You are our defense (Ps 94:22, Ps 7:10), our shield and buckler and our strong tower (Ps 18:2).   Let us put on the armor of God that we may stand against the wiles of the devi (Eph 6:11).  We will not be defeated.  We are not a defeatable people. Bless our President, our Leaders, our Rescuers and our Armed Forces.  Protect them and give them wisdom, courage and strategic plans.  Comfort their hearts and multiply the effects of the rest they are getting in this hour.  Let them look to you for their strength and direction.

In this time, when every hour seems like a midnight hour, be our Comforter, our Counselor.  Strengthen our hearts.  When grief weighs down on us so heavily that we don’t think we can bare it, teach us to cast our burdens upon You.  Lift us up.  Remind us that brighter days- better days are ahead.

I pray for those who orchestrated this attack.  Let them see that they have sinned against You and oh, how dangerous it is to fall into the hands of a mighty and angry God! Give them opportunity to be illuminated with Your word and Your presence.  I pray that You will touch and change their hearts.  Let their children and their children’s children not repeat this cycle of evil.  But let them come to know the only true and living God!

Don’t let us give in to terror or be afraid of terror (Ps 91).  Let us be reminded that You have not given us a spirit of fear but of love, power and of a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7). Now God, make us a better people. Make us a better Nation- stronger spiritually, physically, emotionally and financially.  Bring us all to repentance.  Bond our hearts together in Love and draw us and keep us closer to You!

 Flight 11

Flight 175

Flight 77

Flight93

AND THERE WAS GOD!

 I received a  couple of phone calls from some old friends- I know why they called.  They are experiencing some crazy, seemingly out of control, life is falling apart times in their lives right now.  They were seeking words of encouragement.  They were soliciting prayers and a listening ear.  “Call Wendy.  She’ll give me a word of encouragement.  She’s sensitive.”  They even told me that.  Well, what they almost got was something else.  I’ll admit my first internal reaction was, “Yeah, right!  Whatever dude.  Where have you been?  I haven’t heard from you in . . .how long?  Where were you when I needed . . . too busy living life right–but now that your life is all messed up, here you come looking for a faithful friend- please!  You must be out of your mind!”  Oh, I was awful.  Now of course I didn’t say it (yet- ha!) but I thought it which is almost as bad as saying it.  If nothing else, it shows the condition of your heart.  Have you ever had people in your life that you’ve sacrificed for or were willing to sacrifice  almost everything for but then they almost never find the time or the resources to be there for you? After a while, you get  drained and you have to deal with those unbalanced relationships. I can hear you all now: “Noooo, not you Wendy! Say it isn’t so.  You’re too nice! Too encouraging.”  Hahaha… listen, I’m human.  I have my moments!  I’m  definitely not perfect or flawless (fabulous maybe but not flawless- smile).  My feelings get hurt at times.  I get tempted to get a little bitter at times… Oh, back to my story…I took a couple of deep breaths, repented, and prayed, “God don’t let me hold offenses toward my brother or sister.  Don’t let me be bitter because I feel like… well…   Let me keep in mind (although they did trip on me) that this thing, this life is not all about me- but it’s about You.  It’s about Your purpose.  It’s about Your plans.  It’s about Your desires. 

So I listened.  I made sure they felt like they were heard (which is usually what people want anyway) and I focused them in the direction of scripture.  See, sometimes we just have to get beyond ourselves!  I had to get beyond myself! Not that they hadn’t been wrong in the past- not that I didn’t have valid reasons for feeling what I felt- I had to get beyond myself for me– so that I wouldn’t give bitterness a legal entry into my life.

 Later in the evening these words were on m y heart: “And There Was God.”  I started thinking about 2 Tim 4 and Ps. 139 which lets me know that wherever I am, wherever I go- God is there.  Through the difficult seasons of my life, God was and is there.  Through my greatest triumphs and trials- there He is.  When friends and family turned their backs- When no one stood with me- there was and still is God.

“When I thought I was standing on my own

Facing the most difficult time I had known, there was God!

When my heart was hurting & no one else could see

And I needed someone to rescue me, there was God!

He had not left me, He was holding my hand

Giving me strength so that I could stand

And boldly proclaim the power of His name

So others can see there is God!”

~WR

No matter where we are, what we’re going through- whether we’re experiencing our greatest moments or our greatest trials- whether we are crying or rejoicing- whether things are clear or perplexed- whether we’re making good decisions or bad ones- there is God!  If we can just stop in the midst of where we are and acknowledge His presence, we will begin to see that He has always been there.  He will never leave us alone.  He is there to strengthen us, to guide us, to correct us, to teach us, to heal us, to restore us and our joy, to help us make better choices and lead better lives- holy lives full of integrity- lives that will bring Him honor and glory- lives that will stand as a witness of His Goodness and His Greatness!

 So, you see, it really doesn’t matter who stands with you or if no one stands with you as long as God stands with you.

“At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me.  I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.  Notwithstanding, the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.  And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom:  to Whom be glory for ever and ever amen.”    2 Tim 4:16-18

So Umm…Who Said You Had To Understand My Dream?!

There comes a time in our lives when we just have to do what we believe we are supposed to do, even when folks (or even when we ourselves) don’t fully understand or agree.  We often try to explain our way through in order to make people feel better about the decisions we make. At times, we even keep ourselves confined to a much smaller place in life just to satisfy others when we can’t seem to convince them to believe in our dreams.  Instead, we convince ourselves that maybe they are right. Maybe our dreams are too lofty.  Maybe we should play it safe and do what everyone else is doing.  But those dreams and desires are tugging at our hearts!  They trouble us when we sleep! We scream silently when we see other people doing something similar. We try to get away from it but there is something on the inside- something so much bigger than we are- that is compelling us to break out and go after this thing with all our might and when we finally go for it, folks don’t always get it!  They question your ability, your skill level, your resources, and your sound judgement.  But you know what? So what! There are things, desires, and dreams that people won’t get until the full manifestation has occurred.  So, It’s ok.  Go for it anyway. Now is the time!

I often think about the stories of Abraham, Joseph, David, and Hannah.  Abraham had to leave behind all that was familiar (including his father’s house, family beliefs, family traditions, and his family) as well as the way he saw himself (too old to become a father) in order to step into his promise/purpose (Gen. 12).  David (before his kingship) seemingly wasn’t even considered worthy or a son.  When David attempted to do something big- something that others were afraid to do, his own brother reminded him that he (David) was just called to handle a “few scrawny flock of sheep (1 Samuel 17:28).” Joseph, the dreamer was already hated by his brothers but they hated him even more because of his dreams.  His brothers plotted to kill him but instead, umm… just sold him (Genesis 37). Hannah  wanted something (a child) so badly. Her own husband didn’t understand her desire.  He said, “Aren’t I worth more than to you than 10 sons?”  His other wife Peninnah (who had children) taunted Hannah. On top of that, when she poured out her heart to God, the priest Eli saw her mouth moving without words coming out.  He jumped to the conclusion that she must be drunk (1 Samuel 1). Each of those people went on to do something life changing- something extraordinary- something that forever impacted lives and the world as we know it! No, they were not perfect but they knew they had a course to follow and they followed it in spite of the loved ones who didn’t understand- in spite of the doubt and doubters, the taunters, the faithless, and in spite of the fear that tried to creep in! 

What’s my point? I guess my point is just to say, “So what!” In the midst of folks not understanding or “getting you,” step out anyway. If it is something God placed in your heart to do, you must to do it. Otherwise, you’ll eventually regret not stepping out and going after what you believe you were supposed to do and have.  Take the chance to go after that thing that is bigger than you.  “Wendy, what if I fail?” So what, what if you don’t? What if you do? Don’t fear failure!  “Wendy, what if folks don’t like my singing, my art, my writing, my preaching, my…?”  And your point? ”They already say I think I’m better than they are.  I’ll lose the relationship if I really go after my dream.”  Oh, come on now! Stop it!  Listen, this thing is more than about you! It’s about God getting done what He wants to get done in the way He wants to do it!  He has lives to touch, impact, and impart into through you! We can no longer afford to live small. We can no longer afford to hang out with dream killers!  We have lives to influence and save (see Genesis 50:20-21).  No more excuses.  Folks don’t have to understand you or your dream. As a matter fact, get it in your head that they probably won’t because God gave your dream to you, not them. Still love them just don’t let them stop you!

I hear the sound of the abundance of rain (1 Kings 18). So, umm… get your life together and do what you are supposed to do! Get in God’s presence and in His word and get off of your bed of excuses (John 5:7)! Refuse to stay stuck in the same place! Elevate your mind.  Get your hopes back up. Get your dream back. Go for it all! Give it all you’ve got! Fuel your passion.  Keep something in front of your face that will keep you inspired- something to remind you that you have the promises, the skills and the courage to step into your promised place (some of mines are in the pictures on this post). Envision the extraordinary and then live extraordinarily! Get out of the boat and walk the waters.  Do It Now!  Don’t miss your season. Put some actions behind your faith! Go pick up the computer and pen that Grammy & Dove award-winning song. Pick up the microphone and let the world hear your powerful voice! Start writing that best-selling, Pulitzer Award winning book. Go back to school. Start the business. Don’t just dream about it.  Take some steps.  He’ll show up for you! It’ll work! Don’t deprive the world of the chance to see God’s light shine through you.  Give God the opportunity to do the incredible through your life so that He can draw others to Him.  If the people discourage you (sometimes even out of love and fear), criticize you, hate on you,… I guarantee you, when the incredible happens, those same folks will say they were in your corner from the very start!

Live Extraordinarily In Christ!

~Wendy M. Reynolds

VICTORY IS UPON US!

Today I just want to remind you that things are changing.  It may not look like it or feel like it but hang on!  It’s been tough- some have faced things that no one should have to face!  Many have felt slighted by circumstances and people. You have asked if things will ever change.

What we do in this hour is so very important.  We must fight to stay in a spirit of prayer and worship. Choose your words wisely- not based on what you feel but on what you believe according to the Word of God.  We are at the brink of our finest moment, if we can just hold on.  Defeat is not an option. Quitting is not a choice!  Indifference cannot be considered.

Today I CHOOSE to hold on with all of my might! I CHOOSE to walk in confidence knowing that God has never failed me.  Today I CHOOSE to press into God’s presence and line up my words with His words. I CHOOSE to declare that today is the day I see the manifestation of  God’s promises in my life.  I declare that there is a shift in position and power in favor of the children of God.  I declare that the enemy that we see today, will be seen no more! Victory is upon us! I CHOOSE to believe God- period!!

 

THE SOUND OF VICTORY

© By Wendy M. Reynolds

What’s that faint sound in the distance I hear?  It is the sound of trumpets.  Victory is near.

Been a rough road- too heavy a load- many times I felt I was going to explode. But God in His awesome power and might- kept me close and told me things would me alright.  “Hold on,” He’d say, “though the battle is hard- Me and My Angels are standing on guard.  Believe and praise Me even in your pain.  Praise Me when your mind thinks it’s going insane. I’ll dispatch my angels to fight for you- No matter what you see, just keep pressing through.  Victory is near!

 War is not fun- I took some blows.  I’ve been dazed- not knowing which way to go.  I looked to some friends; they didn’t know what to do or how to handle the hell I was going through.  They’d say, “You’re looking to us and we’re looking to you.”  I was tormented- so many sleepless nights- wondering if I had enough strength to fight.  Lost my peace- couldn’t release- No evidence that the pain would ever cease.  Every now and then God would send someone to say, “All is well- just get to the next day! Hear the word of the Lord.  What is He saying to you?  Pick yourself up and keep walking though.  You may not know it now but victory is near.  Close your eyes to the circumstances and open your ear.  Hear the sound of victory!”

 One day while kneeling down on my knees- I cried out to God, “Help me please!” I was as low as I had ever been-hadn’t had a breakthrough in I don’t know when. The enemy was throwing all he could throw- blow after blow after blow after blow. I was at a moment where something had to give. Something had to break if I was going to live.  I had tried almost everything to fill up the hole that was smack dab in the middle of my soul.  As I searched and searched to fill the empty spaces, I heard God say, “Stop looking in those places! I’ve told you over and over from the very start, only I can soothe your pain and heal your heart.  Deal with yourself- whatever it is face it- wherever there is heaviness, I can replace it.  Doesn’t matter what you’ve gone through or how you feel.  Allow Me to love you.  Allow me to heal.  Victory is at hand!”

Not sure when it happened but it was like bam- what’s up with me?  I had forgotten who I am- a child and friend of God- Christ died for me- provided me with liberty.  I began to call on God- I called on His name.  As I told Him all about it, the tears finally came. God said, “Remember I’ll never leave you alone or forsaken.  There’s no longer a need for you to be shaken.” Pulled myself up- I took my stance- with God in me, satan no longer stood a chance.  he kicked me hard when I was down, but God’s got me back on solid ground.  Each day that went by, I became stronger and stronger. I wasn’t depending on me any longer. Got myself a new attitude- with Christ help, I got my mind renewed.  Now when the enemy comes in hard hittin’, I go to God’s word and declare what’s written.  satan and his imps stood shocked and amazed- as I took off the sackcloth and ashes and put on garments of praise!  satan pulled back his boys and they withdrew- As he fled, God said, “See, I told you that he’s scared of you!  Now you go forward and walk in your destiny.  The day has come for you to walk in Your victory!”

Hmmm…That Place (My thoughts)

Have you ever been in a place that you can’t explain with words? I’m a writer and I love words, yet I can’t seem to locate the right word to express the magnitude of this place. It is here where your priorities shift, where what use to seem important doesn’t carry the same weight in your life- It’s that place where although things may still appear a little stormy, you know that you are in the right place & that God’s got you- it’s that place where you feel empty and full at the same time- It’s that place where you place yourself, your desires, your gifts, your ambitions, your expectations, your heart, your pain, your… your… your everything at the feet of God and you’re satisfied with whatever He does with it- It’s that place where you just have to tell people, “Look, I know you don’t get me or understand where I am or where I’m heading- you just get it or you don’t- but it’s ok, ’cause God is compelling me to a place in Him and I have to respond to Him not you-”  It’s where you don’t want religion, you want relationship- you just don’t want what someone else has or knows, you want your own- It’s where you’re not concerned about other’s opinion or their expectations of you- It’s here where you discover real power, real purpose through selflessness- It’s here that you just want to encounter God- nobody but God- it’s where you just want to keep your ear and your heart close to the voice and heart of God and you’re so grateful that He loves you and that He allows you to be in His presence. For it is in His presence that you find fulfillment. It’s through seeking His face that He ultimately reveals Himself and yourself to you.  It’s there- in that place- where you realize that you will never ever be the same. Hmmm… You ever been there?

Dwelling on Psalm 27:8 and Jeremiah 33 today.

Wendy

From the chapter: Challenges, Choices, and Change © by Wendy M. Reynolds

“Ask me any question you want- anything at all,” I said. “Just allow me to ask you one afterwards.”  There was a long pause accompanied by a long stare.  Finally, these words burst forth from her mouth, “How did you do it? How did you do it,” she asked, “Especially you being from Detroit and Black and all! Why didn’t you get caught up in the drugs? How come you don’t have a couple of kids? Why isn’t your life all messed up?”  The look on her face was not just one of inquiry.  Her eyes were squinting. Her look was hard.  It was as if she was disgusted with me and with the fact that I was not plagued with the same issues that she had to deal with the majority of her life.  She banged her fist upon the dinner table where we sat as she asked, “Why?!”

I answered her questions the best way I could. I told her a little bit about me and my life- no life is perfect.  She opened up and told me about her life.  It was plagued with physical and sexual abuse at a very young age, abandonment, one terrible foster home after another, drugs, promiscuity, early teenage pregnancy, bad choices, and on and on.  That was her life she said. That is how it has always been.

“My turn for a question,” I said.  “What are you willing to do- what will you give- what are you willing to sacrifice to change your life?”  ”You don’t understand,” she said.  “My parents,… the foster homes… having a baby has ruined my life… the drugs…”  Again, looking her straight in the eyes I said, “I hear you but what are you willing to do in order to change your life?”

I have worked professionally with people in crisis for at least two decades- addressing and dealing with the interpersonal issues that lead people into a life of continual turmoil and crisis. I’ve seen people in the midst of transition who were just trying to make some choices about life and relationships as well as people who were pretty much at their lowest point- sudden lost of employment and income, family break-ups, homelessness, poverty, substance abuse, promiscuity, depression, suicidal tendencies… I have seen a lot of tragedies as well as potential tragedies.  I’ve also seen victories and potential victories.

I have come to discover that in order to help people break free out of their crisis mode and move forward toward positive change, you have to challenge and attack their current mentality- their thinking, and expose them to a different way of doing things. 

The young lady I wrote about in the beginning got angry at me.  Although my life has not been perfect, it was much different from hers.  She was angry because she was beginning to discover that life isn’t “just that way.”  Because life was bad for her and has been bad for her, she settled into the fact that her past, her present, and her future were out of her control.  This is how life is for her and pretty much everyone she personally knows.  Now, here sits someone who has the audacity to tell her, “Yes, I hear you, but what are you willing to do to change your life?” That was foreign to her. The concept that she now has choices- choices that could possibly change the course of life was simply foreign and is to a lot of people. 

The questions, “What are you willing to do? What are you willing to give? What are you willing to sacrifice in order to change?” are questions that we all must ask ourselves at certain points in our lives. We may have faced things early on in our lives that we could not control.  For instance, the young lady could not control the fact that her father never acknowledged her or that her mother abandoned her as a little child. She could not make the determination as to which foster home the state placed her.  She could not stop the perpetrator who preyed on her, hurt her and robbed her innocence- all of that happened when she was just a little kid.  However, now she has to learn that she has the power to make choices- she doesn’t have to just let life happen. She doesn’t have to treat her daughter the same way as she was treated or as the reason why her life is all messed up. She doesn’t have to stay a prisioner to drugs. She can learn to face the demons of her past- the hurt, the shame, the pain, the confusion, the anger- instead of covering them up with drugs, indifference, toughness… Confront her desire and need to want to be loved by somebody in order to stop giving herself away to anybody or anything. Will it be easy?  Of course not!  Can it be done? Of course it can? Luke 1:37 reminds us that with God, nothing is impossible.

So, I ask you today, where do you need change in your life?  What are you willing to do, to give, and to sacrifice to change your life?  You may have faced some hard times.  You might have been mistreated.  You may have had a hard break. In your life, you may have been dealt a terrible deck of cards. Maybe no one told you just how important and gifted you are. You may not have any joy in your life.  You just exist or maybe you’re making one bad choice after another. You don’t have to be miserable.  You don’t have to live without hope. You have choices now. You don’t have to be chained to the past.You don’t have to let life just happen. Listen to me- your life is valuable.  You are not the things that have happened to you. You are not the feelings that you feel about the things that have happened to you.  You are precious and its time you know it.  It’s time you know your real worth and get to know the you that God created and make choices based on who you really are as opposed to who you think you are or who someone who didn’t know your value told you that you were.  The decisions- the choices that you make today will determine your tomorrow. Are you ready for change? It starts with a choice.

Wendy M. Reynolds

The Heart of the Matter

When I’m conducting interviews for the magazine, I work hard at listening so that I may do a good job at hearing as much of  the heart (The heart song) of the person as I can. I’m currently working on an interview I conducted recently with a phenomenal person.  She has an amazing Spirit and an amazing heart for people. She is passionate about what she believes and it ignites others. I’m thinking to myself, how can I convey what I heard to the readers? How do I make sure they hear the song of her heart and her passion?

In the midst of all the writing and thinking, things shifted and  I started thinking about how do I and how can I convey my heart to the people who come across my path?  I mean really. Do people really hear me? Do I let the real me emerge or do I hide back pieces? Is the message of my heart fully exposed and potent or is it watered down. Do those whom I encounter actually know what is important to me? Are my beliefs and  passions transparent?  Am I actually able to touch people and impact their lives with the song of my heart? What about this…Do I take time to carefully and honestly listen to my own heart? Do I even know my own heart? Hmm…

What about you?  What song does your heart sing? Do you listen? Do you know the words? Is it a lively tune? Is it one of deep passion? Is it sad?  How do you feel when you sing it?  Can you and do you convey it to others? How do others feel when they hear it?  Hmmm….

Just a thought.

Wendy

CONTINUING TO MARCH 4TH

I just wanted to take a moment or two to wish you a phenomenal “March 4th” weekend.  This is our 2nd annual “March 4th” International Holiday.  It is a time when we consciously make the effort to reflect on how we are marching forth and encourage others to march 4th as well.

Times continue to be challenging in the world around us.  Often it seems as if things will never change… oh, but hold on! I believe it is time to celebrate!  “Celebrate?  Wendy, truly you are detached from reality!” Haha! Maybe, but my reality is not based upon the world’s reality.  My reality is based upon what God says. I don’t know if you sense it or not, but there has been a shift.  I encourage you to draw so close to God, seek Him, keep your expectations high, keep your head up, and keep speaking the word of God. The words that YOU speak will construct your world, just as in the beginning (Genesis 1) when God stepped into nothing and spoke, and the world was formed. No matter what things look like or feel like, speak positive. Speak your answers, not the problems.  Speak life.  Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that our tongue- our mouth has power because of the words that it speaks. Use it to create life and the life that you want.

My Dad and brother Wellsman were in the army.  They would often tell about their army experience, including their marching drills. Often times, as they marched, soldiers sang or spoke cadences that were led by a Drill Sergeant.  Whatever the Drill Sergeant said, they had to say.  “♫ Ain’t no use in looking down, there’ s no discharge papers on the ground.  Might as well keep marching on. Johnnie’s got your girl and gone! Sound off: 1, 2. Sound off: 3, 4. Sound off: 1, 2. 3, 4, 1, 2, … 3, 4! ♫” Haha…wow, how cruel… But, so it has to be as we march on.  We have to get some words- God’s words in our mouth to encourage ourselves and others to keep marching! “♫ Not moved by the things I see. Gods working everything out for me! Won’t be fearful or look back. In my God there is no lack… sound off Romans 8:28! Sound off Psalm 34:9!♫ ” You get my point! We have to speak what God says just as those soldiers repeated their Drill Sergeant. Jeremiah 1:12 reminds us that God watches over His word to perform it!

Ephesians 5:19 reminds us to greet each other with psalms and hymns. Why-to encourage each other on our journey.  It’s so easy to sit down with one another and talk about the challenges of the day, how the economy is in the toilet, or the bad news that is on the news, or how Johnnie ran off with Ricky’s girl,… but how often do we sit down and encourage one another or remind each other of who we are, whose we are, and what we have according to the Word of God?! What are the benefits to being a believer? Remind me and help me march 4th. We have to do it! Let’s not let each other fall away. March 4th!

So today and everyday make a conscious effort to encourage someone’s heart.  Go the extra mile for a friend or even a stranger.  Call someone on the phone (even if they appear to be doing fine) and let them know that they are going to make it!  Spend time encouraging yourself. Spend some extra time in God’s presence so your thoughts will be focused in the right direction and so your words will be word of life.

Listen, if no one told you today, let me tell you that you are an amazing person. God created you that way.  The world is better because you are in it! No matter what you may be going through, you’re going to make it! I’ve got your back! You were created  to be a Victor!

God has your heart- be it broken, cold, soft, or hurting-  in the palm of His hand. He has already put in you everything you need to overcome and excel. You were created to impact and influence the world for good- and you will! I believe in you but more importantly, God believes in you, though you may have fallen- you may have messed up- you may be perplexed or even afraid!

The word of God that you believe and speak will change your life. I can’t wait to see you walking, marching into your best days! March 4th.

Wendy M. Reynolds

DUMELA!

Dumela my friends! What, huh? Interesting word isn’t it?  I had heard it before but had forgotten all about it until my friend Sean Smith called me yesterday.  We had a very interesting phone call.  During our conversation he said, “Dumela Wendy!” Dumela is a South African greeting that translates as “I see you, I affirm you, I believe in you, and I see the great potential within you!” Wow!  What a powerful word and a powerful gift to give to someone.  Can you imagine what your family, your job, your city, and your world would be like if we would greet each other that way everyday and mean it? How empowering!

How would you feel if someone called you on the phone or wrote you a letter and told you that they believed in you, saw greatness in you- told you that you were not invisible- not in the shadows, but your gifts, your talents, … were noticeable, needed, and appreciated? What would happened if you told that little sister that gets on your nerves- that employee that needs to be more effective- that struggling church member  that you get tired of- that son that has made bad choices, that spouse who you’ve been arguing or even silent with,  … “I believe in you! You might be struggling, but I see your potential for greatness!”

Listen, we should never look to people to validate who we are, but we all desire encouragement. It makes us feel good to hear that we matter- that our gifts are appreciated and valued- that someone believes in us and knows we are destined for great things.  It gives us that extra motivation and pull that we all need to keep progressing forward. In addition, I always believe that you should put into to people what you want to get out of them. If you want to see people grow, sow seeds/words of growth into their life.  Invest your positive words, your time, and your resources into their lives.

I want to encourage you today to go the extra mile with people. Let someone know that you believe in them.  Let them know you see greatness inside of them.  Pull someone aside and say something like, “You know I just want to let you know that I see how hard you’re working.  I believe in you!  I know you’re destined to do great things! I know it’s been tough, but don’t give up.  I know it may seem like you’re invisible sometimes, but I see you! You’ve made a difference in my life! You’ve made a difference in this church! You’re an important part of this company!  We’re better because you’re here!” Pull people up and build people up with your words!  Be sincere. If you’re not sincere, you’ll come across as being manipulative.  Trust me, people know when you’re being manipulative! If you’re sincere, I guarantee you that person will have the best week ever!

It never ceases to amaze me how much time and effort we put into building churches, corporations, networks,… but fail to build people.  We build beautiful  new houses, but so often the family on the inside falls apart.  We look around the beautiful church edifice, only to find that more seats/pews are empty than they are filled.  We’ve worked long hours, missed birthdays, and baseball games to build a company- a legacy- only to discover that the company is not producing like it should, the workers are disgruntled, and our family members are now distant. Build people and you’ll build healthy families, churches, companies, and communities! You’ll also find yourself feeling better and feeling more empowered.  You’ll find that as you give, it will be given back to you!

So are you ready? Who will you build today?

Dumela!

Stay encouraged and in God’s presence!

Wendy M. Reynolds

Let There Be New!

Happy New Year!  I hope you are excited and full of expectation not because it is a new year, but simply because we are living in an exciting time.  There is something different about the atmosphere. I dare you to take a risk and see things differently than you did before.  No matter what the circumstances look like, see things through the eyes of faith! We are walking in extraordinary times- full of amazing miracles and comebacks! Recognize that God is doing a new thing in our lives so that our lives can positively impact the people and world around us (Isaiah 42:19).  

I don’t know about you but I’m feeling innovative and creative! I have a greater sense of expectancy! I’m seeing and approaching things (opportunities and yes, even the problems) from a different view. My declaration is different. My stance is different and I am so excited.  I have awaken to my new day and believe me, it has nothing to do with the turn of the calendar.  A new day happens when you wake up- when you internally wake up and embrace the truth of who you are and who God is.  Your new day begins when you  open your eyes to the light of God’s word and change your words to match His and know without a shadow of a doubt that  God is in control.

So listen, I’ve come with good news!  The good news is that you can walk in a new day.  Things don’t have to be like you are accustomed to. You no longer have to be stuck.  You have been redeemed by the blood of the Jesus and you no longer have to be a prisoner to your past! You are redeemed/freed from the past, from poverty, from sickness, and from the distresses and chaos of life! Say so! You no longer have to be trapped by sin or by the foolish and stupid stuff that you did!  The past no longer has to have a hold on you. Burst out!! It is time to walk in a new a day and live an abundant life (John 10:10).  Live like you know it! Speak/declare  like you know it! Anticipate the promises of God to be manifested in your life. Expect the miracles!  Why not?  It is time to be prosperous spiritually, emotionally, financially, physically, socially- nothing lacking, and nothing broken.  It’s a new day! 

You have a God-given right to break free from the past.  God gave His Son and He  is your ‘Get Out Of Jail Free Card.’ The good news is this: just like in the beginning of time, God is still  speaking (Genesis 1).  Yep, He is speaking over the face of your life.  He is saying, “Let there be …” He is still speaking forth  new days! 

We have to keep in mind that as God is creating our new days, He is also saying, “Let there be holiness!  Let there be righteousness!  Let there be integrity! Let there be healing! Let there be success!  Let there be  blessing on every side!  Let there be  doors with great opportunities opened up and shut the wrong doors that the enemy is trying to use to deceive!  Let there be strength!  Let there be steadfastness!  Let there be Godly friends!  Let there be life more abundantly! Let all the things that I have  promised in My  Word begin to come forth!”  We’ll find that we are being changed more and more into the very image of God .

God has confidence that we can handle our new responsibilities because He made us.  He has instilled within us all that  we need to carry out what He has created us to do.  Our lives will be a living testimony of the greatness of God.  And just as others try to explain the earthly creation with theories of the big bang and evolution, so they will try to inquire about our lives in search of how we came to be as we are.  They’ll say, “how could she have done the things that she has done?  There has got to be some explanation.”  We will give all glory  unto God.  We will set the example and we will be God’s proof and praise in the earth (Excerpt from ‘A New Day’ by Wendy M. Reynolds). 

I’m so excited! I am here to tell you- to scream to you, “Wake up to your new day!  Wake up to the possibilities all around you!  Understand that a shift that has occurred!  Allow this to be the start of your finest hour!  Let go of the issues and excuses that have kept you from moving forward.  Leave behind the old and break forth into the new!”  Are you ready?  Well, let’s begin to speak what God speaks and walk in the new! What does your ‘new’ look like?

Walking In Extraordinary Times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

PS.  Speaking of new, please check out the new issue of Beauty Come Forth Magazine.  It is my first layout as Senior Managing Editor. Im so excited about this issue and the endless possibilities with Beauty Come Forth. There are many great articles covering topics from A New You in the New Year to dating issues to…Oh, just come by and check us out. You can click on the magazine topics or any of the letters of FABULOUS to reach articles. Let me know what you think! http://beautycomeforth.com

In addition, consider adverstising your business, church service, …  in the magazine or consider becoming a sponser.  We reach a bazillion readers (how much is that anyway) who would love to know more about you.  Our rates are amazing! Email me if you are interested at reynowr@aol.com.  Let’s support each other and walk in extraordinary times! What are you waiting for?

Are You Ready For The Launching of Hosanna Broadcasting Network (HBN)!

Just an off the cuff random thought © by Wendy M. Reynolds

…and one day the tides will turn, the sky will be blue, and the pathway to the place of my dreams shall glow… yes, for this I know…

the gentleness of the wind shall guide me to my place of destiny and I will dance. I shall commune with my Father and I will understand the purpose of the rough waters, darkened skies, and covered up pathways…

I will understand that the place where I couldn’t feel the wind- or anything else for that matter- the place where I could not see- the place that held my tears captive- the place of false strength, false humility, and false responsibility- the place marked by pitfalls, false friends, and real pain- yes, that place… I will understand that that place could not hold me- could not contain my greatness- could not hold back the light that God had placed within. It could not make me bow down- it could not stop my confession, my shout, my praise- It could not stop my hands from rising nor my eyes from lifting and looking up to the hills- It could not stop me from believing or from being-

for even in the midst of darkness, God has caused me to shine. Even when I couldn’t see MY pathway ahead of me, others behind me or beside me saw theirs. Even in darkness, I walked and led with purpose, with heart, with hope, and with expectation.

Darkness could not hinder or harm me. It was there… in darkness that I learned to close my eyes and see light. I made darkness serve me. It served its purpose. It taught me to follow the lead of a King that I could not see- to not be defined by the outer environment or the circumstances it produces- to become dependent on what and Who I knew as opposed to what I saw or felt… Yeah, it taught me to listen for the gentle voice of the King as He bid me to come and walk those same rough waters that tried to take me under and drown me- Yes, listen for and follow the lead of the King- knowing that within Him- Him alone- the King, are all my dreams fulfilled.

Ordinary Me by Heather Headley

THE NEW SEASON UNVEILED:  “AWAKEN, ARISE, & TAKE POSSESSION! (EMBRACING AN EXTRAORDINARY GOD; WALKING IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES!!)”

Thanks For Supporting “Beauty Come Forth!”

Hey Everyone!  If you haven’t had a chance to check out this month’s edition of Beauty Come Forth Magazine, there is still time!  Just go to http://beautycomeforth.com or click on the image to the right.  The magazine is filled with great articles including “We need a Rivival” by Myra Wallace, “Welcome to the school of Heartbreak” by Jerrin Holt as well as the “Wendy Raquel Robinson interview: Igniting Dreams and Changing Lives” conducted by yours truly.

You can also check out our video web casting which features such great segments such as  ”Fab Foods with Barbie,” “Fab Fitness,” and “God hears my prays?” There is so much to check out! This is a cutting edge magazine created with you in mind.  So, come on over and invite everyone you know. Let’s continue to send the message that we support positive projects that are designed to encourage, inspire, educate and challenge us to live our best life!

As we approach our first year anniversary, we do so with a grateful heart and great expectations of the next year.  This has been an amazing journey for me, but… I’ll get into that next month. 

I will say that I appreciate all of your support  and feedback.  You have continually let me know that you have enjoyed Higher Heights,  Beauty Come Forth, the articles,  and “Wendy’s Weekly Word.”  What a source of encouragement you have been to me as I have stepped out in pursuit of my dreams. 

This is just the beginning.  There is so much more to come- not just for me,  not just for Higher Heights, not just for Beauty Come Forth, but for you as well.  It’s time to take hold of our dreams and possess our promised land!  Are you ready? For real, are you ready? I believe this is the start of our finest hour.  I believe that there has been a shift and the Children of God are about to arise and be a reflection of God’s goodness and His greatness.  Ohhhhh, don’t get me started- yet!  Let’s keep supporting one another as we walk in extraordinary times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

http://beautycomeforth.com

Random Thoughts About Change And Getting Off My But!

So much is happening today.  I just spoke to someone who sounded so defeated as she spoke of the issues of life. As I am writing this, news of yet another fatal shooting, out of control fires, unsafe schools, …are being reported by news reporters.  The responses I hear are, “That’s just the way it is today.  Not safe in or out of the house.  It is what it is!”  So many people have gotten comfortable with defeat.   So what do we do?  Do we just sit back in defeat?  Do we continue to deny the power of an amazing God? Is this the way He meant it to be?  Is the power of God only reflected inside the walls of a church building?  Did we forget that “we” are the church and that we were commissioned to go out and take the Gospel/Good news?  Where is the Good News? Did we forget that when we put the Word of God in action, the Word of God in action has the power to bring about change in our families, in our communities, in our personal lives,… Do we really believe that change is possible? I’m not asking if it is easy. I’m asking if we really believe it is possible and what role do we play in bringing it about?

God is our shield & our sword.  It’s time to really believe that He fights for us!  It’s time to anticipate victory in our lives.  It is time to move out of bondage, despair, discouragement, and defeat!  Where have you lost the battle in your life?  Where are the attacks?  What has you in fear?  What have you given up on!  What have you dropped the ball on?  Where have you accepted defeat?!  It’s time to take our families back, our neighborhoods back, our dreams and visions back, our youth back… 

We spent the last year saying Yes We Can!… however, real lasting and positive change will only happen when we get back to the foundation of the Word of God.  We have to wage war through confessing God’s word, through prayer, through faith, and through stepping out on our God ideas in order to impart and impact!  The Bible speaks of the many tragic events we are seeing around us.  However, it is the Word of God that will sustain us and bring us through. The word of God will restore hope and life. The word of God will transform our communities.  We must be a walking representation of the living Word and love of God.  We must allow the word of God to impact every person and every area of our lives that He has given us influence over or in. 

We must get off our “Buts.”  You know the: I would do this “but“… Things are bad “but” what can I do?  I want to help our youth, “but” they are too violent. Our school system is not educating our children, “but“  that’s just how it is today!  I know this needs to be changed “but” what can one person do?  The folks down the street are hungry “but“ I’m sure someone else is helping them.  I have ideas “but” they probably won’t work.  I believe God, “but!”  The church IS the backbone of the community “but” social services will help!  What about “Kingdom Services?!”  Our “buts” are excuses.  Who do we believe in? How is what we believe and who we believe in reflected in what we do? 

You have the hope, the faith, the word, the smile, the kind word, the inspiration, the product, and the encouragement that someone else needs in order to rise up out off dispair!  Let’s get up!  Let’s shake the dust off! Lets arise in the power of God and walk in the authority that HE has given us!  Be the change that you want to see in your family, neighborhood, and in the world!  We can do it.  We have to do it!  We were born to do it! We are not wimps!  ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!!!!!!   Let’s do it!  Let’s do it by committing to prayer and studying God’s word so that we can be equipped to  to make postive change.  Let’s do it by allowing the word of God to transform our thoughts and set us in motion to make a difference.  

Ok, I just had to get that out!  I know things don’t look great but we have to be the hope that stands against hopelessness!  We have to be the ones to instill value in the lives of children who no longer know how to value their lives or the lives of others. We have to show them the beauty within in order for them to appreciate and respect the beauty in others and in the world around them. 

Things are tough but don’t just say how bad things are, talk the solutions! Talk and show forth faith!  Put your energy, your gifts, your skills,… in places that matter. Don’t just tickle folks ears with fancy words and emotions, show them how to apply the Gospel in their everyday life.  Let’s show the Gospel and love in action.  There are so many things we can do to show and share love while helping to overcome the obstacles of our society.  Commit to spreading some “Good News” every day.  In addition, you can teach someone to read, teach someone a skill, speak  blessings and encouragement into someone’s life, take your child or a child to a ball game, spend time with your grandparents, go to your child’s school and sit in his/her classroom, make an appointment with teachers before Parent/Teacher Conferences, join a neighborhood watch, volunteer at a community center, clean up the park near your home,  go to church with your family,  take time to listen to someone, invest in someone’s dream,  or teach someone HOW to have a dream.  It’s the little/big stuff that we do everyday that will make all the difference. Make a difference by being a difference! Let’s spread some good news! Let’s impart into those around us. Let’s make an impact.  Let’s not bow down in defeat. Let’s rise with the expectation of victory!

Ok, I’m done for now.  Understand that my random thoughts are speaking to me first!  I know there are things I need to do as an individual and I’m challenging myself to do them.  I am getting off of my but!  What about you?

 Matthew 16:19, Mark 16:15, Matthew 8:26, Psalm 91, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 27, 1  Samuel 30, 2 Chronicles 20, Psalm 139:14, Romans 4,…

Stay encouraged as we walk in extraordinary times!

Wendy M. Reynolds

PS. Please remember to check out Beauty Come Forth: http://beautycomeforth.com

Spread the word!

TRANSFORMATION

I had an incredible dream and when I awakened, I had one thought on my mind: Transformation. We all need transformation in our lives at some point in time.   The word transform simply means to change. In what areas of your life do you need change? Prehaps you need transformation in your health, your Spiritual life, your finances, your attitude, your prayer life, your career, your image, or perhaps in your relationships.  

I want to start  focusing more 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? Don’t you feel as if the real you is trying to emerge? You can’t be a copy anymore.  You must allow transformation to take place.

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 lessons 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

IT’S YOUR TURN NOW!

Then [he] said to Jesse, Are all your sons here? [Jesse] said, There is yet the youngest; he is tending the sheep. Samuel said to Jesse, Send for him; for we will not sit down to eat until he is here… and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward. I Samuel 16:11, 13

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 have done 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

RESURRECT THE DREAM

I hope everyone enjoyed their Resurrection/Easter Sunday. I spent time with my family. Of course my Mom made a dinner that was out of this world. The house smelled of turkey, dressing, butter cake…, and we had a very peaceful day.

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

The New International Holiday: “MARCH 4TH”

I was thinking about life and how it can truly be an interesting journey. It can be fun. It can be hard. It can be full of surprises. It can make you want to give up and quit. Life! So how do we do it? How do we keep going? As I was mulling over those questions this week, I decided to create my own International Holiday. So today, on March 4, 2010, I celebrate “March 4th!” I sent out the following Facebook message:

“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.

WORDS TO LIVE BY!

As a means of encouraging myself as I progress forward, I’ve been reflecting this week- rehearsing what God has brought me through and where He has brought me from. I’ve been looking at some of my past journals, reading my past thoughts, while remembering the lessons learned. In the process, I came across some words I wrote back in 1991.  I know you’re probably thinking, “Wendy, really, 19 year old words? You couldn’t think of anything else to share with us?”  These words were birthed out of lessons learned as I lived my life (however young or old I was).  As I read them today they reminded me of some very important principles. Many years later these same principle are still important to me. I thought it quite funny that for over 19 years, I’ve been trying to teach the same principles. Some things just never change.  I also found it funny that the first principle I wrote had to deal with your personal definition.  I thought I would post them in hopes that they will in some way or another spark something in you and challenge you to recall the principles you live by and evaluate whether or not you’re living by them.

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

Wendy M. Reynolds

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WORDS TO REMEMBER 

© 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!”

WHEW!

As I sit here writing tonight (actually, it’s the wee hours of the morning) I have so much on my mind- so much so that I do not know where to begin to write. Have you ever been at a point in your life that you cannot explain? It’s an intense place. It’s an interesting place. It can even be considered an exciting place in a strange sort of way. It’s a place  that you’ve never been. You’re changing before your very eyes– maybe not physically but internally. It’s hard to explain this place.

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

BRING IT!

I’ve been taking a little time to pray and reflect during this first month of 2010. I want to make sure I am continuing in the right direction and that my mind and my heart are focused on what God is saying. The previous year proved to be quite a challenging year. It was filled with tests, trials, folks tripping… I was constantly brought to a point that said, “So, what are you going to do about it?”

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