Much love, Wendy

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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!”

Dwelling on Psalm 27:8 and Jeremiah 33 today.

Wendy

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

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

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

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

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?

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!!)”

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

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!