Tag: Akilah Grant

Dependent Power

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baby hand holding parent hand (2)Are you independent? Tired of relying on people who have let you down…a parent, spouse, business partner or politician? Whoever they are, you want to be liberated from their influence over your life. Being independent provides a sense of freedom from their control and a release from their authority.  Self-reliance compels you to take charge of your own destiny.

This sounds good, but carrying the weight of every decision and provision in life is a heavy burden. Being independent can often breed loneliness, stress or depression due to the heavy mental load. It may cause you to lose your accountability to others.  At some point, independence morphs into some form of interdependence. You and I are designed to be relational and connect with others.

So, who can you depend on?

Your Heavenly Father.

My deliverance and glory depend on God.
God is my strong rock. My refuge is in God.
– Psalm 62:7 (Common English Bible)

Yes, God is dependable in every sense of the word. You can trust Him with every area of your life. He is the Creator of everything. When you depend solely on Him, He reveals the people to connect with, as well as those you should run from. You can rely on His ultimate power for provision and protection.

Dependence on God provides a supernatural freedom.  He is the unlimited supply of joy, grace and peace. You can count on His love for you to never wain. He is intimate and discreet. His commitment to you is eternal. He heals all your wounds – physically and emotionally.  Best yet, He is a phenomenal leader.  Nothing is impossible. He leads you to your purpose and empowers you along the journey.  All you have to do is depend on Him.

Powerful Beauty Tips

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beautiful-black-woman 2How do you define a beautiful woman? Some may describe her by the glow of her skin, the quality of her clothes or the shape of her physique. Others may characterize her by a friendly smile, a loving personality or a warm-hearted demeanor.

By worldly standards, beautiful women are most often measured by their outward appearance regardless of their moral character. Make-up artistry, hair styling and plastic surgery of today can create jaw-dropping presentations. But after all the cover-ups and push-ups are removed, what type of beauty remains?

One way the Word of God describes a beautiful woman is…

Your adornment must not be merely external—with interweaving
and elaborate knotting of the hair, and wearing gold jewelry,
or [being superficially preoccupied with] dressing in expensive clothes;

but let it be [the inner beauty of] the hidden person of the heart,
with the imperishable quality and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit,
[one that is calm and self-controlled, not overanxious,
but serene and spiritually mature]
which is very precious in the sight of God.
– 1 Peter 3:3-4 (Amplified Bible)

According to this scripture, a beautiful woman is defined as poised, kind, compassionate and stress-free.  God sees her as very precious… adored, beloved and highly favored.  Although she still adorns herself outwardly, she nurtures her deep inner spirit that is often unseen.  Because of this, her confidence, influence and fearlessness are powerful! She radiates an everlasting beauty inside and out.

You are beautiful, too! Be lovely in God’s eyes and your beauty will inspire others. Take time to consistently adorn yourself in the spirit with grace, truth and love. Your inner spirit will glow. And though there are many ways to enhance the outer, here a few tips to cultivate the powerful combination of both external and internal beauty.

  • Seek to develop a more intimate relationship with God through daily prayer
  • Drink a glass of water at the start of your day to hydrate from within
  • Clear your heart of any unforgiveness, bitterness or past regrets
  • Have fun trying something new…fragrance, a lip color, hairstyle, etc.
  • Meditate on a scripture that brings you peace
  • Add a new exercise to your fitness routine
  • Esteem and appreciate others to refresh yourself
  • Rest, breathe deeply and rest some more
  • Regulate what you put in your mouth and what comes out
  • Trust God with every area of your life

Take good care of your whole self and remember…your beauty and power are everlasting with God!

Powerfully Discreet

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Social-Media-3
How can you be discreet in this age of social media? Almost every event and opinion is broadcast through cyberspace for public judgment.  Most would agree that the internet is a powerful tool to spread uplifting and informative content through tweets, blogs, posts and pins. But sometimes, this unregulated medium is devastating when discretion is forgotten.

Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.
– Proverbs 2:11 (New International Version)

So, what does it mean to be discreet?
It does not mean to keep secrets or to behave in a sneaky or deceitful way.  For example, you should not refer to someone as “discreet” if they have an affair with someone’s spouse and do very well at keeping it quiet. That would be an inaccurate use of the word.

To be discreet has much more substance and responsibility…
–  to be wise in speech or written word
–  respectful of delicate matters
–  avoid causing offense by one’s actions or words
–  prudence with regards to one’s own conduct
–  to select the best means to accomplish a purpose

My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:
So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. – Proverbs 3:21-22

Discretion requires wisdom and wisdom is a prerequisite for power. I believe you can still be “real” or “transparent” with others you are connecting with while also being discreet. I admire the way Jesus spoke in parables to encourage and teach. His purpose was to love, not judge. He used discernment. Even during public correction, He was kind to protect the identities and feelings of others. Social media is the new public arena. You and I can follow His example. Our words can be intentional, impactful and discreet.

Stress-Free Power

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Power_Up_Logo_v7

Photo Credit – Awana.org

What gets you pumped up and ready for each day? Are you invigorated by your favorite cup of joe, the early morning show or a good cardio workout?  Maybe your daily routine begins with quiet time or meditation.  If you are looking to relieve stress and take your morning routine up a notch, invite God to power up with you!

Here are a few benefits of powering up with God for a stress-free day:

Maintain patience and peace – Any first-thing-in-the-morning crisis, nagging pain, grueling commute or a cantankerous start with kiddos can deplete patience reserves by 9am! There is still an entire day left.  Starting the day with God through prayer or reading His Word provides a supernatural peace to protect our sanity.

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God,
and of Jesus our Lord, – 2 Peter 1:2

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,
shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:7

Withstand Haters – All of us encounter those who do not like or support us. This negative opposition can drain our emotions.  In some cases, “haters” relentlessly attack our character, work and personal well-being.  They often outnumber us and attack without a cause.  Thankfully, God does not want us to be distracted from our joy or from going forward.  He gives us strength through His Word to remain peaceful and focused until “haters” no longer have an effect on our daily lives.

And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee;
for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee.– Jeremiah 1:19

Eliminate anxiety and stress – Nothing in the world is for certain…relationships, economy, weather, national security. This uncertainty can fuel stress and lead to numerous health complications.  Without God, the weight of protecting our assets and constructing a future solely on self-effort is exhausting.  Some engage fortune tellers, idols, rituals or even drugs just to ease the burden.  Worrying about life destroys hope, debilitates faith and hinders the power of God in our lives. 

Therefore, don’t worry and say, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’ Gentiles long for all these things.
Your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
Instead, desire first and foremost God’s kingdom and God’s righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.
– Matthew 6:31-33 (Common English Bible)

Praise God! With your Heavenly Father, there is certainty of success!  All things that have happened and will happen in the future work together for your good.  You may not always understand how God works, but you can be sure that His power does work!  Communicate with Him through prayer, praise or worship.  Invite Him to lead your path each day and power up in His amazing presence!

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits,
even the God of our salvation. Selah. – Psalm 68:19

 

Unashamed Power

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unashamed of the gospelDo you feel that you must hide the fact you are a Christian? Are your moral beliefs unpopular with the social crowd in which you engage? Maybe you fear judgement or feel ashamed since your righteous lifestyle is still evolving.  Don’t let the opinions of the world disgrace your faith or dilute your passion for the Holy One. Be encouraged and keep growing with God!  Remember, you are a Christian because of what you believe, not based solely on what you do.

For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. – Romans 10:11

I have witnessed God’s awesome power in my life and in others.  He saved me from a pit of darkness. He healed and restored me even when I did not deserve it. God gave me a new life.  I am forever grateful for His grace and mercy.  Regardless of how I act, these are just a few reasons why I am not ashamed…

  • My Creator is more powerful than any person, system or wicked force in the universe
  • God loves unconditionally – He teaches me how to love and forgive
  • He sacrificed His son to conquer sin once and for all – Christ is the only King who died and rose again for the entire world
  • God is the source of truth – I trust and need Him daily
  • He provides unlimited access to His power, protection and provision
  • God teaches me how to be compassionate without compromising my faith
  • The gospel of the kingdom brings joy, peace, healing and grace
  • God empowers me to live fearless and help others

The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him
[who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him]
will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed.
– Romans 10:11 (Amplified Bible)

No matter how the world portrays God and Believers, being a Christian is nothing to be ashamed of! Friend, stay grounded in His love. Be bold in His promises and stand firm in your faith!


Heart of Power

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heart-bookHow do you feel when you imagine your life in the future?  Does a flood of emotions emerge when you intentionally refresh your heart, soul and mind to new thoughts?  Invigorating yourself when everything around you remains the same requires supernatural guidance. Thankfully, you can look ahead to a new year of victory in any area with faith and the light of God’s promises.

Your heart is very powerful.  It can harbor pain and bitterness or it can generate love and encouragement. Your heart influences emotional decisions and leads strategic actions.  Filling your heart with the Word of God is the best way to ensure a bright future.  Even in a dark circumstance, you can access His powerful light to change any situation for your good.  Seek God and find out how He has prepared you to shine!

In the light, there is power over the symptoms of darkness such as: depression, fear, shame and lack. There is an abundance of peace, joy, love and truth.  God wants to fill your heart with light!

I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory,
will give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation
that makes God known to you.
I pray that the eyes of your heart will have enough light to see
what is the hope of God’s call,
what is the richness of God’s glorious inheritance among believers,
and what is the overwhelming greatness of God’s power
that is working among us believers.
This power is conferred by the energy of God’s powerful strength.
– Ephesians 1:17-19 (Common English Bible)

Friend, God loves you and desires for you to live your best life ever!  A life better than you can ever imagine! Take the first step towards a powerful life with God. Make this a year that your heart is enlightened!

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,
but shall have the light of life. – John 8:12

Power Over Terror

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Small-Group prayingHave you ever felt terrorized…mentally or physically?  Terror is defined as extreme fear or the violence committed to cause extreme fear.  At first glance, terror and those who distribute it appear powerful or unstoppable. However, it is only an evil tactic to distract and rattle your faith. In these times, a strong and wise spirit is critical to dominate over the terrors of this world.

Terror wants to literally “scare you to death” and make you relinquish your power to serve its cause.  It is not a person, but an evil, dark presence that is revealed through, but not limited to, the following forms:

violent attacks against innocent persons, racism and other “isms”, brutality, abuse,
human trafficking, slavery, threats, kidnapping, wicked secret societies,
bullying, propaganda, genocide, pestilence and injustice

Although terror is atrocious, God’s grace is greater! You and I are not hopeless or defenseless.  As Believers, we must unite in strong faith.  We have the power of God inside our spirit to disarm and disrupt the schemes of terror globally and in our own communities!

You shall establish yourself in righteousness
(rightness, in conformity with God’s will and order):
you shall be far from even the thought of oppression or destruction,
for you shall not fear, and from terror, for it shall not come near you.
Behold, they may gather together and stir up strife, but it is not from Me.
Whoever stirs up strife against you shall fall and surrender to you.
(Isaiah 54:14-15 Amplified Bible Version)

 Here’s how you can fight terror…

 

  • Focus on God
  • Speak His promises of victory – Be Fearless!
  • Unite with other Believers – we need each other in these times of spiritual warfare
  • Put on the whole armour of God – now is the time to be skillful
    Helmet of Salvation, Shield of Faith, Breastplate of Righteousness, Belt of Truth, Sword of the Spirit (Word of God) , Feet prepared with the Gospel of Peace
  • Pray for your enemies – pray they are no longer used by the evil one – pray that their wicked plans will not be executed – pray to forgive them: forgiveness keeps you disconnected from fear
  • Pray for the safety of your families, communities, churches, leaders and your country
  • Trust God as the ultimate Vindicator

 

 

Praying, believing and speaking the Word of God over any form of terror is key to success! Victory is your inheritance! Today is the perfect day to align with the only One who is victorious!

Your Power Season

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change-of-season

Do you ever feel like giving up and throwing in the towel?  Has a whirlwind of emotions convinced you to abandon your dreams, a marriage, God or even your own life? Before you make any decisions, let’s take a moment to breathe and refresh.

Every person experiences an undesirable season in life – grief, depression, frustration, shame, loss, addiction or an unexpected tragedy.  If left unattended, these seasons can steal your joy, harden your heart and leave you barren of faith. However, with the power of God, they can also provide opportunities for supernatural victory!

If you are ready for a season change, here are some tools that may help you…

Keep your heart towards God
Seasons of life test spiritual maturity.  You can strengthen your faith by focusing on the promises of God written in His Word. This can be extremely difficult to do while experiencing the disappointments and distractions of life.  But doing so will empower you to break free from hopelessness.  His Word gives inspiration for the future. God loves you. Talk to Him about your pain and allow Him to replace it with a joy and peace that only He can provide.  In the midst of a winter, God will prepare you for your spring.

I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.
He brought me up also out of an horrible pit,
out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God:
many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. – Psalm 40:1-3

Be patient and believe
Tribulation is temporary. Your present circumstance is not your final season. Continue building intimacy with God in prayer. Believe God has taken care of all your adversaries and infirmities. Take refuge and find comfort in Him. Take time to rest and quiet your spirit. The manifestation of your destiny is worth waiting for. Your words, actions and reactions may seem justified, but find out what God has for you. This knowledge is imperative for strength and endurance in any season.

Never apply a permanent solution to a temporary problem –
Make decisions based on purpose instead of on the pressures of life
– Dr. Myles Munroe

Look ahead and dream BIG
Even in darkness, envision yourself in a new season!  Believe the best for your life! Creating a dream board is a great way to visualize your future success.  Avoid rehearsing past regrets and reliving painful events.  Forgive others and forgive yourself to maintain clear vision.  Bitterness impairs your ability to see ahead.  The Word of God will encourage you and build up your dreams.  It is a constant reminder that your future is greater than anything you have already experienced!

Brothers and sisters, I myself don’t think I’ve reached it,
but I do this one thing:
I forget about the things behind me
and reach out for the things ahead of me.
– Philippians 3:13 (Common English Bible)

Do not give up!
 Friend, God has a purpose for your life.  He needs you to continue on the journey with Him.  Keep going towards God.  He will reveal your destiny and bring it to pass. With Him, you will overcome the impossible.  No person, present situation or past mistake can stop you from your power season!

And let us not be weary in well doing:
for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. – Galatians 6:9

Fearless Power

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Photo Credit: Blue Cross, Blue Shield

Photo Credit: Blue Cross, Blue Shield

What are you most afraid of?  What fear goes beyond the temporary shock of something like a snake, clown or spider? This month, let’s attack the “scary things” that have tried to debilitate progress and become permanent in our lives.  With the power of God, now is the time to conquer our deepest, darkest fears!

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power,
and of love, and of a sound mind. – 2 Timothy 1:7

Here are some of the fears many of us encounter:

  • Running out of money, resources, or food
  • Making a wrong decision with family or business
  • Fear of failure and the shame or judgement that results
  • Generational curses or demonic influence
  • Rejection in relationships or career path
  • Getting sick or dying from disease
  • Losing control and becoming stressed or depressed

When waging a spiritual assault against fear, you need to know what God’s Word says about overcoming it. This is a serious war – fear wants to control, torment and keep you in bondage. Unforgiveness, jealousy, bitterness and anger are all some of the tactics fear will use to oppress you.  Meditating on God’s Word and hearing the good news of Jesus Christ weakens the grip of fear over your life.  Instead of fear causing anxiety and making you afraid to live victoriously, you can confront it with the powerful promises of God!

There are so many, but here are two scriptures you can store in your arsenal…

Fear thou not; for I am with thee:
be not dismayed; for I am thy God:
I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee;
yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand
of my righteousness. – Isaiah 41:10

In all thy ways acknowledge him,
and he shall direct thy paths. – Proverbs 3:6

Friend, God loves you and wants you to be free. Let Him show you how to live a fearless, blessed life. Seek Him and unleash the supernatural power residing in you. Today is a perfect time to begin a new relationship with your Heavenly Father and…Live Fearless!

You are a Superpower!

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You are a SuperpowerAre you ready to change your life for the better?  Now is the time for joy, victory, abundance and strength to be visible in your life! It is now time to thrive!  No matter your situation, there is good news.  You already have super powers inside of you! Even better, no force in the universe is greater than the power you possess!

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions,
and over all the power of the enemy:
and nothing shall by any means hurt you. – Luke 10:19

Whatever villain tries to rise up against you – lack, strife, depression, doubt, sickness, pain, anxiety, condemnation, shame – you have the power to defeat it!  Seek and speak the Word of God over your situation.  Use your authority to command change instead of complain!

“______________ (villain), I do not accept you in my life and command you to leave right now, in the name of Jesus!
I am the righteousness of God and I am redeemed from destruction!”
(1 Corinthians 1:30, Psalm 136:24)

God knew you would need extra help in this world.  And don’t worry now, if you feel a little weak…

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might
he increaseth strength. – Isaiah 40:29

Remember, your power source is the anointing of God through His Son, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.  He has even given you authority over angels.  Healing, love, power, victory, peace, wealth, a blessed life – God transferred it all to you!

So how can you access this power?

Seek God first.  Trust and obey your Heavenly Father.  Pray for patience and believe all is well.  Love and walk in peace with everyone whenever possible.  Forgive.  Resist the devil.  Use your authority for good.

Yes, this is real!  God loves you!  It is time to unleash your supernatural superpowers!