Karen Presley's Blog

Fruit that Remains

2012-02-27T08:40:00.001-05:00

When I think about fruit, I thinkabout a farmer who goes out and tills the ground to prepare for the seed he isgoing to plant. A farmer is not only skillfulbut a strategist and he plan on how to bring about the right crop that willremain.

There are so many external factorsthat can come into play when planting a garden or growing crop in yourfield. It is the farmer’s responsibilityto make sure he plants the seed in the right environment as well as making surethe ground is suitable for the seed to get into the ground so it can bringforth what he intended.

Well God is our vinedresser andHe is the greatest strategist. We arethe seed that God has planted in this earth to bring about His desired fruit. When I talk about fruit, I’m talking aboutyour character, your gifts, your nature, your assignment, your purpose anddestiny. When God planted us, He desiredfor us to produce in the earth and to look like Him doing it.

Like a farmer, God will begin topurge, only to bring forth more fruit (John 15). Purge means to “take away” to lift up orraise higher. God will take theunfruitful branch and lift it from the dirt into which is has fallen giving ita better chance to be productive in another’s dirt. Wow! Can you see how in your transition of leaving one place to go intoanother; it was God moving you into another dirt giving you a chance to bringforth more fruit.

The word of God tells us that weare to ABIDE in the vine. Abide means toremain, stay connected, stay in relationship with Jesus. We abide by remaining in prayer and inrelationship with the Father through His son Jesus. You can’t say you are in relationship withany one and do not talk to them but once or twice a week. That is not a relationship. As we abide in the vine, we must trust thatthe vinedresser, who is God, is carefully watching over our lives; making surewe are producing and looking like Him in the earth.

God is the one who planted us andwe are His seed so He knows what we are supposed to look like. The branch receives its nourishments toproduce from the vine. All of the nutrients,vitamins, and sap are in the vine and it is giving the branch life and food tobring forth; as long as the branch is connected.

Don’t think that you can do what Godhas called you to do on your own. Yoursupply is only coming from the vine and it is the vinedresser responsibility towatch over your ground and make sure He plucks up the weeds that would chock outyour life and if necessary move you to another ground so you can produce morefruit.

Before the foundation of theworld, God has always intended us to bear fruit that would remain. Fruit that is tenacious; bold as a lion andgentle as a lamb, like our big brother Jesus is what God is looking for. What Jesus started we are to finish; thepaton has been passed to us. What areyou doing with your part of the race? Stay connected and grow in your relationship with the Father. Trust the vinedresser who sees more and knowsmore than you, so He can do what needs to be done in your life so you willbring forth fruit that remains.

Pastor Karen, www.karenpresley.org

Preparing For Breakthrough

2012-01-28T13:09:00.001-05:00

In this world today, there are somany things we prepare ourselves for. People prepare to go on vacation. We prepare ourselves when we want to get another job. We prepare ourselves once we get engaged forthe wedding date. When a person gets upin age or maybe they are dealing with a terminally ill situation, they begin toprepare themselves for death. Everythingwe do; require us to prepare for things in some shape or form. Getting things in order and aligning thingsaright so we can be ready for the thing that we desire.

Now the word breakthrough isdefined as: the act of forcing a way through against resistance, as in warfare;a very important advance. When weprepare ourselves for breakthrough, we are setting our minds, hearts and spiritto be engaged toward one purpose. Thatpurpose will advance you beyond where you are to get the desired results. There is nothing lazy about preparing forbreakthrough. There is nothinginconsistent, indifferent or passive about preparing for breakthrough.

In order to prepare yourself forbreakthrough; you must be hungry for it. Let me ask you a question, how are you preparing? What have you done? Are you taking the passive approach? Are you just waiting on God? Whatever you are hungry for will have yourfocus. Hunger prepares the way for breakthrough. Breakthrough of what, you might ask? Whatever you are standing in need of; itcould be the thing God spoke to you that has not happened yet. It could be in your finances or the nextlevel of living you desire to reach. Anew car, business, job, or the book in you – the list goes on for the things westand in need of. There are so many occurrencesin the Bible where we see hunger in the lives of people playing a part in theirbreakthroughs; however, for the sake of this blog, I will only focus onone.

The Bible talks about how God fed4,000 and of course we know he also fed 5,000 with only a few loaves and a fewfishes. (Matthew 15:29-38) What I want to point out to you is thatbefore there was a miracle, they were first hungry for Jesus and what he had tosay. The Bible said they followed Jesusfor 3 days. They were hungry for whatJesus had on his life. They were hungryfor what was coming out of Jesus. Jesusis the Word made flesh and He dwelt among us. We too still have the life of Jesus in our situation when we gravitateto the Word of God like the multitude was gravitating to what was coming out ofJesus.

They were sustained by the Wordof God. They did not think about theirstomach and say, “oh, I’m hungry.” NO. They were engulfed with theBread of Life that they were following and He was their substance. Hunger is the first prerequisite for seeingyour breakthrough in every area of your life. The Word of God is not just for Sunday service or spiritual matters; itis for your everyday life. The Word ofGod is practical enough to show you how to operate and live in the contents ofthe Word for your daily needs, desires and wants.

The second prerequisite is yoursubmission to the Word. The multitudewas submitted to the instruction that Jesus gave. He told them to be seated and in one passageit said they were to sit by 50’s. Canyou imagine trying to get 5,000 people seated by 50’s? They could have bucked against the disciples,complained and left. It could have beenmad chaos, but they were submitted to the Living Word of God speaking.

When we prepare for breakthrough,we must be hungry for God and His direction and instructions that He will speakalong our journey. From Genesis toRevelation, it is noted that whenever you saw the miraculous of God, it wasalways preceded with instructions. We mustalso be submitted to the will of God for our lives and the way God wants tobring us into our breakthrough. God isperfect and if He gives you an instruction that your flesh does not want to do;do it anyway. Your flesh will alwaysoppose the spirit, because it wants to keep you in a place of always wantingbut never achieving. That is why a lazy,inconsistent, passive and indifferent mentalities will never push beyond wherethey are to get breakthrough.

God desires breakthrough morethan you. He also knows how to get it toyou. God’s instructions are setting youup for the breakthrough, but if we never submit ourselves to Him, we will keepourselves in a place of frustration and disappointments from life.

I’m encouraging you to not let theyear 2012 repeat the same cycles as 2011. Allow me to assist you in the unlocking process that keeps one going incircles. You have MUCH in you that someone is waiting to see your emerging.

Next Radio Broadcast: BringingYour Dreams to Life is scheduled for Friday, February 17, 2012 at 8:30 am.

Go to: www.karenpresley.org and view our products and services that can assist you with reaching your destiny.

Birth Only The Promise

2012-01-05T19:09:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! I’m excited about what this year shall unfold. People often have different thoughts going on in them as they come to a close of one year and approach the next. Will I repeat some of the same dilemmas as last year? Will I be more committed this year and more productive? Will I make more money or will I find myself struggling like the last year? So many thoughts, concerns and often times worry can drain us before we ever get started.

Have no fear, Jesus said, He has prepared a place for us and knowing Him as the Way, Truth, Light and Door will cause our lives to be less of a struggle. When we define the word “way”, it means a space of passing, a route, a course, a method of doing something or manner of living. Jesus said He is our method and route for 2012. What does that mean? We do not have to keep struggling in an effort of striving. Striving to do better, striving to succeed, striving to get ahead, or striving to make it. God’s Word must become our route and course that we must follow so we can remain in a place of “rest”, knowing we are on course for ultimately what God has pre-ordained for us to walk in. Remaining on His path, will cause us to walk into the suddenly moments that already have our name on it.

Jesus is also referred to as the “door.” A door is a moveable structure for opening and closing an entrance, a means of access. Do you realize that as you remain in fellowship with the Lord, through prayer and sitting still before Him, God will cause you to walk through the doors that He already prepared for you? He is your means of access into your destiny, your happiness, your wealth, your dreams and desires. We do not have to exhaust ourselves in works of the flesh; but remain in a place of rest so you can walk out what God has instructed for you to do. There is a grace that will enable you and carry you through every God-given endeavor.

Galatians 4:23,29 says, “But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.”

Abraham was promised a child from God, but when it seemed like time was getting away from him; he decided to help God out. As a result of his human efforts, to birth his own child, that child became a thorn to the one that was promised by God.

Sometimes, we have a tendency to look around at what others are doing and try to follow suit. Some people exhaust themselves trying to be like others and do what others are doing and never find out what God wants them to do. As a result, people have unnecessary frustration and some things leave us drained and dry in different areas. Do not allow the striving of fleshly works birth something that God never ordained. Some things can come back to bite you later.

Listen to our next broadcast, Friday, January, 13, 2012 as we continue to explore the matters of birthing the promises of God. Also sign up for our Metamorphosis class, starting NOW. Go to: www.karenpresley.org -

NEW RELEASE: It Is Time 2 Unmask the Real You! – This is an interactive workbook designed to help unlock the things that are lying dormant on the inside that keeps you stuck and repeating cycles. This book is a MUST. Get your copy today: www.karenpresley.org

Planting in the Soil Called "TODAY"

2011-12-03T13:44:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it is now December? Where did the time go? We are about to embark into the year 2012. Did you accomplish the goals that you set out to accomplish in the early part of this year? Did you stay focus on your task? Did everything happen the way you thought it should have? Maybe there were some unforeseen setbacks that occurred and you did not know how to press pass them.

Well I am here to tell you that we serve a God who gives us a hope and a future and He still has purpose for you and me. Your purpose is not going to come alive by coincidence; we must make choices daily that will bring about a different harvest in our lives.

Galatians 6:7, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

A lot of time we look at this scripture for just money; but God says, “Whatsoever we soweth.” That means when we sow seeds toward spiritual, relational, emotional, physical and financial, we shall reap in these areas as well. “Eth” means continually. That means the seeds we continually sow toward our marriage, relationships, physical health and spiritual discipline; will cause us to reap a harvest in our tomorrow.

Many people have a wishing mentality. We desire, we want but without action it leaves us still in despair. We hold onto our seed, because of fear, procrastination or we do not know what seed looks like. When you realize that your soil = “TODAY”, then every aspect in your life becomes a “SEED.”

Why do we not accomplish our task? One of the reasons is because we have not found value in our “TODAY,” but we are still waiting on “ONE DAY.” This is the day that the Lord has made, I will, I decide, I choose to rejoice and be glad in it. When you realize that every day is God giving you that day to plant seed, it will begin to change your tomorrow in every area of your life. Another reason is because we get stuck in the achievements, failures and negativity of our yesterday that we cannot get past.

Because of the redemptive life of Jesus, we always have a hope and a future beyond our past experiences. As we come to the end of the year, you may have to deal with unresolved issues, leave your past behind, appropriate forgiveness where needed, and close some chapters; so the New Year can bring or release a new future. What we plant today will determine what we harvest tomorrow.

TODAY is the soil you plant in; but TODAY is also the bridge between your past and the future we talk about.

Listen to my next broadcast as we go further in detail on this topic, Friday, December 16, 2011 at 8:30am. Http://www.blogtalkradio.com/karenpresleymin

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

2011-11-05T16:12:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard people say, “It is not how you start thegame, but how you finish?” If thatstatement is true, then why do we spend so much time and energy focusing on howwe started or what we didn’t do in life? God created us with purpose and assignment to fulfill a specific destinyand no matter how we start in life, it doesn’t depict how we are going tofinish; however, we are faced with decisions every day that will take usforward into our destinies or keep us repeating negative cycles.

Let us look at this in the Word of God. Paul who was named Saul used to be the chiefpersecutor of the early church. He tellsus in many occasions that from his youth, from his beginning he we raised underthe straightest sect of his religion and that he lived a Pharisee. How he was a Jew that sat at the feet ofGamaliel and was taught the perfect manner of law. Paul talked about how he excelled above allthe other Jews and how he persecuted the church unto the way of death anddelivered them into prison.

Paul didn’t play, he was zealous toward God and excelled atdoing what he did all because of what he was taught growing up. How many of us do things today, or say thingsor believe things because of what we experienced or were taught in our earlyyears; things that are grilled in us and have become a part of our behavior andhow we function. Well just like Paul,who once was named Saul, had a decision to make after he came to a place ofknowing truth. Let’s look at this alittle closer.

Paul says to the Philippian church that all things that wasgain to him, those things he counted loss for Christ. (Phil 3:7) Paul was telling them, that what he learnedin his beginnings and the clout that he had and how people feared him and theposition he walked in; they were all gain to him, but for the sake of theAnointed One and His Anointing (Christ); he decided to count it as loss. Paul made a decision after his encounter withJesus, to forsake what he once knew as truth; for the excellency of theknowledge of Jesus Christ and His anointing.

After we receive Jesus as Lord and Savior, we begin to learnthe truth of the Word of God and who we are in Him. The Word is supposed to challenge us to makedecisions to come out of yesterday so we can walk into our tomorrows. You must ask yourself, what is influencingthe decisions you are making? Is it theWord of God that will lead you into your destiny or is it from you past thatkeep you repeating negative cycles.

We can learn a lot from Paul. He chose to let go of all the things that oncemade him big man on the totem pole for the sake of the anointing. You too must begin to evaluate your thoughtlife and choose to let go things that hinder your progress, not for me or thechurch or for your parents…but for the sake of the anointing that is on yourlife. God has a destiny that only youcan fulfill.

Listen to my next broadcast, “Bringing Your Dreams to Life”blog talk radio, Friday, November 18, 2011 at 8:30 am. www.blogtalkradio.com/karenpresleymin. The title of that message is the same as theblog, where we can go into this a little further.

Pastor Karen Presley

Also, sign up for our Metamorphosis 1 Yr Coaching Program. Click here for details.

Are You Living or Just Existing?

2011-10-10T12:57:00.000-04:00

Jesus came that we may have lifeand life more abundantly. Although weknow that scripture and confess that scripture …we do not live in the truth ofthat scripture.

Now let me explain something;existing doesn’t mean you are dead. Anything that is dead is not breathing or moving; however, existing isdefined as a person who is alive, but yet their life is not producing.

It is very easy to get in aroutine, comfortable and complacent with the cards that you were dealt in thisgame called “Life”; however, I am here to jump start your motor to get you intogear because it is time to put yourself into drive. You have been on “neutral” for too long. It is more to you and what God wants to bringout of your life than what you have experienced.

The Bible says that your latterdays shall be greater than your former. You may be saying, well look at what I’ve accomplished so far. I’m successful, nice home, loving family,nice career; I’m doing something! Thisblog is for you. Or maybe you are theperson who got stuck somewhere in your life because of disappointments or baddecisions or a loss of someone and now you find yourself going through themotions to survive. I’m pushing both ofyou to get out of “neutral”, God has more to bring out of you.

Living means something isbreathing, moving, bearing fruit, expanding, producing. When God originally created mankind, He toldus to (1) be fruitful; (2) multiply; (3) replenish; (4) subdue; (5) and havedominion. Now let's look at the first twowords for a minute; being fruitful and multiplying has the same meaningas: increase, growth, reproduce,enlarge, productive, fertile, abundant, profitable, reward.

Can you see how easy it is to getinto a rut? We graduate from high schoolor college, some of us are working in our careers and a lot of us settled withwhat we could get. We could have starteda business but treat it like a hobby. Maybe you started a ministry, but frustrated with the lack of help orsupport from others. Needless to say,don’t stop where you are. Don’t stopdreaming because the dream in you is what is fueling your vehicle to keepmoving forward.

Don’t starve that part of youbecause things have not worked out or you have gotten comfortable with whereyou are. If you are still living, thenyou should still be enlarging, reproducing, growing and increasing in differentareas of your life. The moment we stopenlarging or stop being fertile for another conception then we have shiftedinto “existing.”

Listen to my internet radiobroadcast entitled: “Bringing YourDreams to Life” and sign up for our 1Year Coaching Program: Metamorphosis, wecan help you to unlock areas that is keeping you stuck as well as bringingaccountability into your life that will push you into your destiny.

I’m for you and I’ll be yourgreatest cheerleader. I didn’t come fromthe good side of the track. I know whatit means to exist and I know what it means to live; living is far better thanexisting any day.

Go to: www.karenmpresley.com. Check out our Metamorphosis tab andour Success Stories.

Are You Making Emotional Choices or Kingdom Decisions?

2011-09-05T14:34:00.001-04:00

The word “choice” is defined as, an alternative, the best part of, a variety from which to choose. When we make emotional choices that are led by our emotions, it will only bring about an emotional result. Our emotions are dictated by conditions. The emotions are influenced by the sense realm; meaning, what you can feel, touch, see, hear and smell will influence your emotional status.

Your emotions are not liable and they can’t be trusted. You can see something or hear something that can literally alter your whole mood. Has that ever happened to you? It has happened to me on more than one occasion. Therefore, when we make choices based on our emotions, the choices we make can lead us into a worse place; because it was based on our mood at that present time.

The word “decision” is defined as a firmness of mind, the act of making up one’s mind. The benefit to making Kingdom decisions is that it will bring about God’s agenda, plan, purpose and assignment for your life. Now, I’m not talking about church stuff; but the Kingdom of God lives on the inside of you. When we make Kingdom decisions, we are advancing the Kingdom on the inside of us. God wants to advance His plans, purpose, and agenda forward in our lives. People should be able to eat from the fruit of your life.

Why do we seem to get ahead only to go backward? Why can’t we reach that next plateau in our lives or business or ministry? Why can’t we get over that hurdle to reach the next level? Could it be that we are making choices that are influenced by our emotions? Let me give you an example.

Peter, when he asked the Lord to bid him to come out of the boat to come to Jesus; that was a Kingdom decision. Why, because Peter dared to step out of the box and made a decision that would advance him in the realm of the Spirit. Once Peter was on the water, he began to look around and seeing the condition of the waves, began to fear and then to sink. Peter made a firm decision to step out on Jesus’ word to “come”, but once he looked at his condition, the emotional choice was him taking his eyes off Jesus and looking at the condition.

How many times do we hear God’s word or instructions and make the decision to do what we hear, only to shrink back, turn around or just stop moving forward because we are looking at the conditions and circumstances. God wants us to keep moving forward; having a firmness of mind knowing that He that started a thing will finish it. Examine what is influencing your actions. In everything He tells us to do; His purpose is to advance His Kingdom within us.

Listen to my next broadcast, “Bringing Your Dreams to Life” blogtalk radio, Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 8:30 am. www.blogtalkradio.com/karenpresleymin. The title of that message is: “Is Your Thought Life Sabotaging Your Dreams”

Pastor Karen Presley

www.karenmpresley.com

Find out more details on our Metamorphosis 1 Year Coaching Program starting in the new year. Click on the link for more details http://www.karenmpresley.com/pages.asp?pageid=108647

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/SAVE-the-DATE-for-October.html?soid=1101518769504&aid=MqpwS3tpRNM

2011-08-31T15:49:00.000-04:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/SAVE-the-DATE-for-October.html?soid=1101518769504&aid=MqpwS3tpRNM

Karen Presley's Blog: Marketing Strategies

2011-08-15T22:41:00.000-04:00

Karen Presley's Blog: Marketing Strategies

Marketing Strategies

2011-08-15T22:40:00.000-04:00

In today’s generation, the buzz is all about social media. Marketing is crucial to the success and growth of any business, ministry or organization. Whether you are starting a home-based business or maybe you have a storefront business or maybe you have a level-marketing business; marketing is important no matter what product or service you are offering.

What is marketing? It is basically advertising or informing others that you have a product or a service to offer. It’s letting others know that you can solve their problems. Well how will others know about you unless you make yourself known to the public? Well let’s talk about some of those strategies to get your business in front of potential customers.

Facebook, Twitter, Blogging, Websites, LinkedIn, YouTube are some of the most popular sites that a lot of people are using. Although I have accounts with all these social media sites, I never used to use them. One day a lady called me about my publishing company and I asked her, “how did she hear about me.” She stated, “my blog.” It was then that I realized that I needed to be consistent with what I was doing online.

I will speak further about social media on my next blog; but for now I want to speak about the printing marketing material. Business cards, brochures, flyers, and rack cards are still necessary to growing your business. As a business owner and entrepreneur, we must meet the demands and accommodate to where are customers are. Yes, social media is the happening thing, but printing your marketing material is just as imperative. All of your customers are NOT online and you will miss a large percentage of your potential customers if you do not have printed marketing material as well as an ONLINE presence.

Make sure your material clearly defines your product/service and the verbiage is plainly articulated on your marketing material. You want to make sure that people can clearly articulate what your business offers. Remember, people are busy and don’t have time to decipher what you do. Let your customers know what problem you can solve for them and how they can reach you. Wording is just as important as the design and the paper stock. It all speaks to your business.

We’ll go into this a little further on our next blog. Sign up for our workshop “Building Your Business Beyond a Hobby” Saturday, October 8, 2011 – 10:20am – 2:30 pm. Visit: www.karenmpresley.com for more details

The Benefits of Acknowledging God

2011-08-06T13:27:00.000-04:00

A life without God’s guidance will lead to frustration, fear and cause an imbalance life. Have you or do you feel tired of the hustle and bustle of the day to day responsibilities on your things to do list? If you ever find yourself at your wits end or overwhelmed, you know exactly what I’m talking about. Let God establish His order in your day to day routine.

The Scriptures are filled with God’s promises to lead and guide us with His wisdom. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” So what happens when we do not acknowledge Him? We find ourselves doing what we know to do, and sometimes we are not prepared for things that come up in our lives that we didn’t predict. Not acknowledging God says, we become our own god and we are independent of His guidance in our lives.

Acknowledging means to admit as true and to recognize the authority or claims of; meaning when we acknowledge God in our day to day routines, we are admitting that we are nothing without Him. We are admitting that we are in need of His guidance, His wisdom, His counsel and His direction. Sometimes when we do something on an everyday basis, it becomes routine and familiar; so subconsciously we think that we can handle it. We must realize that we can do nothing without the Lord’s help.

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Psalms 32:8. Spending time with the Father in prayer and His Word assures that the well of the Lord will never be empty. Not only will He keep you refreshed, but He communicates to you everything you need for your day and week ahead of you. That is a promise that the Father made to His children; He will instruct you in the way to go and then He’ll teach you in that way.

We live in a society where everything is on rush, speed and fast pace. No one takes time to breathe. Everything and everyone needs your attention NOW; and these are the things that can steal our moments with God. However, God will show you how to remove all the excess weights in your life; remember we control our schedule and God will show you what you can and cannot do. This is what is going to keep you balanced, happy, calm and relaxed; spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically.

My life is very full; I run a graphic and print shop, I have a non-profit outreach ministry, where we do outreach activities, I have my speaking business where I’m a life coach to people as well as a workshop facilitator and I’m a full time pastor with a mandate to uproot and plow through the layers of faulty foundations that causes people to be stuck. The only way I am able to do what I do, is by acknowledging God, spending time with Him and resting in the grace that He’s given me to do His assignment. I don’t do anything that I don’t sense the grace for.

Put God in the driver’s seat today. He knows every route and even the alternate route when traffic is backed up. He never sleeps nor slumbers; so you can rest in Him knowing that He that started a work in you will complete it. He’s just waiting for you to acknowledge Him so He can drive your vehicle. Everyone’s vehicle is different, some may be in a bike, motorcycle, car, van, plane, train, or boat; whatever the mode of transportation is let God drive it. He knows how to get you through life without calamities.

Pastor Karen Presley

http://www.karenpresley.org/

Understanding God's Seasons

2011-07-29T14:05:00.000-04:00

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Ecc 3:1. The word season in the Hebrew means Zaman; it’s an appointed or an affixed time. If everything has a time then we must understand that as we go through life, there are divine appointments waiting for us.

God is not limited to our timetable. We live by the chronos which is another word for time or the Gregorian calendar. We measure time by 24 hours in a day; 30 days in a month; 12 months or 365 days in a year; however, God is not moved by the chronos. God moves by “kairos” time. Kairos time is a set apart moment/season. They are God’s divine appointments where time and destiny meets.

Inside of every season are divine appointments. God links His timing to His will; which is able to interrupt our chronos. If we are going to be prepared for the kairos moments that are happening even as you are reading this blog; we must prepare ourselves to discern the times, seasons and events from God’s perspective and not our own. We have a responsibility like the Children of Issachar in 2^nd Chronicles who understood the times and the seasons.

How do we prepare? Spending time in the word and in prayer prepares your spirit to discern the prompting and voice of God. It sensitizes you and makes you familiar with the stillness of God. God will not speak over your chaos and the noise around you. The talk of the news and what’s going on can’t be more prevalent than God’s presence. Yes, it’s ok to stay abreast of the national crisis in the world; however, you must see and hear with your spiritual eyes and ears. Not allowing the negative comments to be bigger in you than the truth of God’s word.

There is a daily shaking in the world system that strikes fear and confusion in those around us. We face an uncertain future; however, I believe God is offering the believers tremendous opportunity to break through the norm and see the Kingdom of God expand. This is the time to press into God and hear the clarion call that has already gone forth as God prepares His bride to bring forth the greatest level of His glory on the earth. Romans 8 talks about how all the earth is travailing, and groaning in expectation of the manifestation of the Sons of God.

This is the time to stay focus on the big picture and not the day to day obstacles that are stealing our attention from the greater purpose. Do you remember “Get Smart” the TV show? Maxwell Smart would walk through these doors and one by one as he reached the door it would open. Maxwell never stopped walking. He didn’t pause or hesitate to see if the door would open; he just kept moving forward with full anticipation that the next door would open.

I like to call that the seasons of God and when we walk through another door it represents the kairos moments. If we are good stewards over our chronos, by keep moving forward with what God put in your heart to do then we will step into the divine appointments that God has for us which will transition us into another season.

Pastor Karen Presley

www.karenpresley.org

The Making of an Extraordinary Woman

2011-07-21T19:18:00.000-04:00

We live in a society where ordinary, the norm, just making it has become the status quo. Because of life and our experiences a lot of us have become so accustomed to just getting by or doing whatever it takes just to survive.

God never called us to survive but overcome. We must learn to rise above every obstacle that presents itself, in order to seize the opportunities God has before us. Allow me to share the movie, “The Secretariat.”

Diane Lane in the movie, “The Secretariat” grew up on her parents stable and she loved horses. As she grew, she put her dream aside, as so many people do, to marry and raise a family. After the death of her mother, she found herself back at her family’s stable for the funeral and discovered that they allowed some things slip. She felt impressed in her heart to stay behind and handle the business of the horses, as she sends her family back home. Her passion was ignited again, the thing she laid down for her family has now found itself in the forefront of her heart.

During these times in the 1970’s, men pretty much dominated in the horse racing industry and women were to be seen and not heard; but this didn’t stop the gracious and tenacious owner of the race horse “The Secretariat otherwise known as ‘Big Red’.” She followed her passion, her dream and overcame the odds of that time period where women were not taken seriously. She did her homework and she stood up and overcame every obstacle that was presented. She was a housewife who’s family farm was 6 million in debt, about to lose the farm, needed money, made fun of by countless men; but she had a DREAM. She believed in a horse that no one else did. All the men who were educated and trained in this field had counted Secretariat a looser, but not Diane. She held onto every dream and that caused here to win a triple race that has never been done in 25 years.

She had to go against every NAYsayer, doubter, and every person who fought her along the way. Family didn’t understand, brother wanted to fight her, men were laughing at her, but the power of her faith caused her to overcome the temporary discomfort and be one of the extraordinary women of her times. She did what NO man has done and that made her great.

What are you afraid of? What have you told yourself or maybe someone told you that has hindered you? I want you to get that dream back to the forefront of your mind and say, “All things are possible to them who believe.” I need you to feed your faith and take courage that what is on the inside of you shall live. I believe in you. If you are reading this blog, it is not by coincidence, this word is for you to put into place the first step that will move you forward to achieving the greatness that is on the inside of you.

Let me coach you! If you are in need of help, coaching, mentoring on how to move from point A to B, please give me a call so I can assist you with walking into your greatness.

http://www.karenmpresley.com/
Karen Presley Enterprises, LLC
202.251.5616

The King's Speech: A Story of Overcoming the Demons Within

2011-06-27T14:49:00.001-04:00

In the 2010 Oscar-winning historical film “The King’s Speech,” King George VI (Colin Firth) reluctantly takes the position of the throne and must overcome his stammer in order to speak with authority and eloquence expected of a king. He hires Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), an Australian speech therapist to assist him with his problem.

This movie blew me away and how it paralleled what we in the Body of Christ must go through in order to assume our rightful position as kings in the earth. Revelation 1:6 says, “we are kings and priest unto our God,” that means we stand in the position of king, the power of king and the authority of king.

In this story, King George VI had to speak on occasion as his father was dying. His brother was off doing his own thing and didn’t want any part of the royal responsibilities. King George VI would clam up with fear and anxiety every time he went to the microphone to speak.

After much failure with other speech therapist; his wife finds Lionel to help him. Lionel was different, a little unusual; but effective. King George found himself trying to tell the therapist what to do and he fought him on many occasions. Isn’t that what we do with God; or the man/woman of God that is given to us to assist us in our destinies? King George wanted the mechanics from Lionel; meaning he wanted to do exercises that would help him with stuttering but he didn’t want to get personal which would deal with the real issue behind his stuttering that Lionel had spotted.

King George was angry and held a lot of fears, resentment and hurt and bitterness on the inside of him; due to his father disappointment and the things he experienced growing up. So now that King George VI is an adult, the demons of his childhood are now trying to rob him of his rightful position as king.

After King George’s father dies; he found himself opening up to Lionel and allowing the things that he had buried on the inside of him to finally be released. This too is what we must do as believers in order to walk in the fullness of what God has called us to.

God is raising up leaders who have His heart for his people and His counsel that will bring the believer into a place of wholeness so they can walk in Kingdom Assignment. We too must face the demons of our past and our childhood that is trying to rob us of our present. It wasn’t until King George VI trusted Lionel, his therapist, with those deep dark secrets, that King George could finally start walking out of his past.

We must learn from this very profound story of one man’s life of how he overcame the demons of his childhood in order to walk in the full authority of what was handed to him. As believers, we stand in the position of king, the authority of king and the power of king; but until we too face the demons of our past, they will rob us of fulfilling Kingdom Assignment.

Trust the man/women that God has placed before you to assist you in overcoming your past; that you might walk in the fullness that God has for you. You can’t do it on your own; that is why God puts people in your path.

The Importance of Branding

2011-06-22T13:41:00.000-04:00

In business, BRANDING yourself, business and/or ministry is just as important as the business and/or ministry that you operate. Your material is speaking on your behalf.

Let APGI help you BRAND your business. Click on link and view our portfolio.

We Are Here to Serve You!

Karen Presley, CEO
Anointed Press Graphics, Inc.
Anointed Press Publishers
301.782.2285
http://www.anointedpressgraphics.com/

God's Healing Power is Still Flowing

2011-06-16T19:24:00.000-04:00

Jesus came to set the captives free. There was a lady with an issue of blood for twelve years and had suffered many things from many physicians. She spent all her money and she was none the better but rather grew worse. (Mark 5:25-34) As it was in the Bible days, so it is still today.

We too have been in situations where we go from doctor to doctor hoping for answers and to get better. Sometimes our bodies are NOT responding to the treatment they give us. I’ve heard people say they felt like the doctor was experimenting with them. Yes, God can use doctors, but ultimately God is our Healer (Jehovah Rapha) and there is where our trust must lie. God is still in the healing business; and yes God is still performing miracles with signs and wonders. Doctors can’t explain it, because God is confounding the wise.

Be blessed by this testimony:
I’ve been bleeding for over 3 months off and on, but more so on than off. The bleed was very heavy including clotting and I’d become anemic and had lost almost half of the blood in my body that a normal human is supposed to have.

I tired two (2) different birth control pills, nothing worked. My last result with my GYN was the Lupron Shot, said to stop the bleeding for 3 months. It never happened…I kept bleeding. I came into Karen’s shop on Monday, May 16, 2011 to fax some documents. I discussed my bleeding issues with her briefly. She asked if she could pray with me.

She laid both hands on me, my forehead and my lower abdomen and began to pray…then she put both hands on my lower stomach where the 3 tumors are located. She prayed that God would restore my body to the original way it was when He created me, to shrink the tumors until they are no more. When she said that, I felt a hot flush within my body in my abdomen area where her hands were.

Later that day once I returned home from running my errands, I went to change my personals and it was clean. I had 3 pads on that day and not one of them had a spot of blood. They were all clean. Today is June 10th, my period is still off. -- Jennifer D.

Facts About Book Publishing

2011-06-10T04:58:00.001-04:00

There can be a lot of confusion about self-publishing and print-on-demand. As you decide the best publishing path for you, I would like to clarify a few misconceptions you may have heard.

1. MYTH: Whoever owns the ISBN owns the rights.
FACT: This is not true, most publishers like Anointed Press Publishers assign the ISBN for the authors' convenience, but Anointed Press authors always keep 100% of the rights to their book.

2. MYTH: Independent self-publishing is different from publishing with Anointed Press Publishers, because the publisher owns the ISBN.
FACT: It is true that the ISBN identifies the publisher of record. With Anointed Press, authors can supply their own ISBN. If that is the case, we will still design and print their book and market their book according to the package they pick. It's up to the author if they want to use their own ISBN or allow us to assign it.

3. MYTH: Printing a book with an off-set printer is the same as publishing it.
FACT: Printing a book is one facet of publication. Before a book can be printed, the interior must be designed, cover designed and layed out to proper print measurements. Once printed then it is made available for distrubtion through online retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. It is also listed in Anointed Press catalog as well as books in print.

Printing a book with an off-set printer accomplishes only one step. Publishing your book with Anointed Press Publishers accomplishes all of them. Almost anyone can "print" a book, but what about all that other stuff that is required? That's one of the many reasons so many authors choose Anointed Press Publishers.

I hope this was helpful. When you are ready to start you can call Anointed Press Publishers 301.782.2285 or go to: www.anointedpressgraphics.com to view the many testimonials and packages that we offer. View all our books: www.anointedpresspublishers.com

Sincerely,
Karen Presley
Author & Publisher

PS - please read one of the comments from our author:

With Anointed Press Publishers, my first publishing experience was easy, fast and no hassle. Unlike online services, I experienced professional service with a personal touch. I felt like I had a coach during this process. Thanks.

CJ Gross, Author The Parent Connection

Press Release - Anointed Press Graphics, Inc.

2011-05-23T17:14:00.000-04:00

Anointed Press Graphics, Inc. • Anointed Press Publishers

Established 2003 • www.anointedpressgraphics.com • www.anointedpressprinting.com

At Anointed Press Graphics and Anointed Press Publishers, they offer complete services from custom graphics and book publishing to printing, folding and finishing.

This printing company can be relied upon to handle logo and graphic designs, NCR forms, annual reports, business cards, forms, envelopes and letterhead, programs for anniversaries and funerals, T-shirt screen printing, wedding invitations as well as fax, copy and notary services. Anointed Press Publishers, a division of Anointed Press Graphics, is a one-stop self-publishing company, providing all publishing services from beginning to end. They specialize in helping you publish your book the way you want it to be published.

Count on them, located in Cheltenham at 11191 Crain Highway, phone (301) 782-2285. Whether you have a book to be published or are in need of other printing services, you’ll be amazed at the way they do business.

Visit www.anointedpressprinting.com to see how you can upload your print-ready files for printing and have the finished product shipped directly to you.

Setting Goals For Your Life and Business

2011-05-19T20:28:00.000-04:00

Proverbs 29:18 – “Where there is no vision, the people perish…” You will only live out to the degree you see yourself and your business and/or ministry. Having a vision for your life, business and ministry will cause you to persist against the odds and keep you focus throughout your journey.

Once you get the vision for the direction you want to take your life and/or business, ministry; then it’s time to set goals so you can obtain the vision. Goal setting is a powerful brainstorming process of thinking about the ideals for your future and it motivates you to turn the vision into your reality.

Q: Have you ever felt like it was more inside of you than what you are doing right now? Or do you find yourself starting one thing just to stop and take up another? A lot of times, we can feel like we’re in a drift or a rut because we don’t take the time to think or brainstorm about what we want; therefore making no goals for ourselves. We pray, but we never sit still enough to hear the direction from the Lord concerning our life and/or business.

Psalm 16:11 says, “Thou wilt shew me the path of life; in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” And Psalm 25:4 says, “Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths.”

As we discipline ourselves to sit still before the Lord, He will begin to reveal His purpose, plans, direction and secrets to us pertaining our lives as well as the direction of your business and ministry. Allow me to go through a few tips on setting goals and keeping them.

Goals are a list of things you want to achieve in a set time to bring about the desired vision. Let’s Begin:

1. To take at least 5-10 minutes a day to BRAINSTORM on what you would like to achieve in your business, ministry and for your personal life. Ask the Lord for His direction and begin to let your mind ponder and visualize.

2. Write down what you see and what you hear. They may be big targets; but that’s OK because those targets must be broken down to smaller obtainable targets.

3. Make sure when you word your targets, they are positive statements and not negative ones. Exp: Be a good parent… vs… Don’t be a bad parent. See the difference, you want to remain positive and open with your goals.

4. Prioritize your goals according to the importance. Ask yourself, what is the most urgent thing on your list you want to see come to pass. Mind you, I didn’t say, “what’s the most attainable.” You don’t want to limit yourself or let your fears get in the way of your desires.

5. Write it all down. No goal is too silly to write down. This list is between you and your Heavenly Father. Hab 3 says, “…write the vision and make it plain, so he that readeth it can run with it…” So write it down, having it in your head/mind isn’t going to work.

6. Be precise. Give the date you want to accomplish it, time, amount etc., so you can measure your progress. Then you will truly find satisfaction as you begin to reach them one by one. Also it will allow you to regain focus if you find yourself slipping.

7. Keep day-to-day goals small and realistic. You don’t want to frustrate yourself and quit. Ultimately, you are working toward reaching the greater vision.

As I close, be reminded that goals should be related to performance and not the outcome. The reason why is because your performance in how you begin to make the changes and necessary adjustments in your life, business/ministry will far outlast the initial outcome.

Keep tweaking your goals until you reach your desired vision. Applaud yourself along the way when you obtain the goals you are setting; this always motivates you to do more. If you find the goal was too easy; make it harder the next time and if you find the goal was too hard; then make it a little easier next time.
Finally, I will end with this statement… The level of your achievement will be in direct alignment with your level of commitment. Stay focus and watch the doors open that only God can open because of your diligence.

Need additional help, go to: http://www.karenmpresley.com/

Tips & Strategies on Building Your Business

2011-05-15T17:19:00.000-04:00

The last time I wrote, I talked about the importance for understanding the reasons why you went into business. Now I want to talk to about the difference between an entrepreneur and someone who treats their business like a hobby. The only difference between the two is the mindset.

Your mindset is like the steering wheel that causes your car to go in direction that you point it. If you turn your wheel to the left, your car will go to the left. Well our mindsets is just as critical to how we run our business and the direction we want to take our business.

The reason why the mindset is so important is because it is YOU. When you come to the table, you also bring your fears, dreams, apprehensions, inadequacies, disappointments, etc. into the business. It is imperative that as you are building your business, you also build yourself.

Please allow me to list a few mindsets that are crucial to the success of any business.

1. Calculated Risk Taker – is a person who is not afraid to step out and take a chance. This person doesn’t look at past failures to determine the success of present opportunities. They pursue opportunities based on what their inner man is saying; even if it doesn’t match their reality.

2. Self-Motivated – is a person who doesn’t look for people or things around them to get them going. They are excited about the vision and the work that goes along with the vision. This person does what needs to be done because they see the bigger picture.

So in light of the two mindsets we just discussed; are there some areas in your life that needs to be adjusted. Ask yourself, do I allow the economy and things going on around me to dictate the decisions I need to make in my business and for my business? When it comes to growing your business, not only do you have to be motivated; but it is imperative to be able to take risk.

When it comes to expanding your business and/or growing your business, it will never look like the right time. In fact, you will feel led to move in different directions at what seemingly is the worst time. But you must develop the mindset of being a calculated risk taker and what the blessings unfold in your business.

On the next blog, we will discuss more mindsets that needs to be developed in order to grow your business beyond a hobby.

If you would like to find out more about how to build your business beyond a hobby, please order the EBOOK – “Tips & Strategies to Building Your Business Beyond a Hobby” by Karen M. Presley at www.karenmpresley.com

Visit: www.anointedpressgraphics.com – and let us help brand your business.

What Kind of Weapon Are You?

2011-05-07T17:03:00.000-04:00

When I think of the word weapon, I think of something that has the ability to damage and/or kill. Military, police officers, high end government officials, secret service officers all use weapons to protect and to engage in war when necessary. Drug dealers, thieves, robbers and gangs also use weapons for destruction and violence.

Weapons have been around for a long time, even in the Bible days, they used jabbers, swords, knives, bow and arrows, etc. Weapons are also used to hunt their prey, to provide food for us when we go to the store to purchase. So as you see, one word “weapon” can be used in so many different manners.

2 Corinthians 10:3 tells us that although we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh. That means as a Believer, we are not to handle our problems and things that come up in our lives, the same way the world handles their problems. Vs 4 tells us that the weapons of our warfare are NOT carnal. That means, the weapons of our conflict are not physical. They are not the same physical weapons that we’ve talked about earlier, which are the one people use in the world.

If you are a believer, God has given us other weapons that we are to use to engage in war. I’m sure if you are like me, you can’t even fathom how God’s weapon could compare to the weapons in the world; but let’s look at several scriptures to see that what God has given us is far powerful and more effective to destroy the works of the enemy.

Ephesians 6:17 – says we are to take the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God. The Word is symbolized as a sword. The same sword that was used in the Old Testament to destroy nations, is now available to us. The power that’s in the Word is the fuel behind every weapon.

A sword is used to cut and thrust. Cut means to pierce sharply as to hurt, severe, divide into parts and thrust means to push with sudden force, to stab and impose. The Word of God is more than words on a piece of paper bound in a book. The Word of God, when put in your heart is a powerful weapon that has the ability to damage anything in your way.

That Word that God has given us is the same Word that He spoke the world into existence, which is still being upheld by the Word. (Heb 1:3) The Word of God is the source of your power. No word is indicative of beating the air or shooting blanks. Have you ever been in a fight and your arms were swinging, you were exerting a lot of energy and you were getting tired but wasn’t hitting anything? That is what it feels like when we are engaged in war over the enemy and we have no word on the inside of us; or we can quote the scripture but don’t believe the scripture.

The Word is the foundation of everything we do and it’s the fuel behind every weapon.

Stay tuned for our next edition, when we break down the significance of the Word of God and how it plays a dynamic part in us walking in power and authority.

http://www.karenmpresley.com/articles_view.asp?columnid=6156&articleid=74629

Karen Presley on Taking off the Mask-Intro2

2011-03-21T19:44:00.002-04:00

This is the time to allow God to bring us into a place of healing and restoration. We must stop fighting the process. It is our responsibility to begin to locate where we are, so God can bring us into the place that He has for us. This is your appointment to heal from the past and move forward into your destiny. This will require a process of stripping. See clip and more on www.youtube.com/karenpresleymin

Self Publishing 101 - 1 day workshop

2011-03-08T16:37:00.002-05:00

Do you have a book in you? Do you find yourself starting something and then stopping because you don't know what to do next. Not only do we publish books, but we also help you in the beginning stages with going through the in's and out's of self publishing. We start at the writers standpoint to the printers and publishing aspect. Call us today: 301.782.2285 or visit: www.anointedpressgraphics.com

Is Your Marketing Material Attracting the Customers You Want

2011-03-06T21:25:00.000-05:00

EBOOK - Building
Your Business Beyond
A Hobby.
http://www.karenmpresley.com/

Are you a new business or maybe you have been in business for a while but never took the time to invest in your marketing material. Alot of people think they can do it themselves and/or maybe take the cheap way out because they don't think its important. I always tell people that what they put out reflects them. It's not just about working in your business; but you must also invest on working on your business.

Before the customer sees you or know how great you are and how great your product is; your material is speaking on your behalf. Did you realize that? When potential customers come across your marketing materials; what does it speak? Does it speak - "I just started." Does it speak - "I don't care about my presentation."

Your marketing material will begin to speak to the customers that you want to attract. If you want larger clientele, you must invest in branding your company. Your material must speak to your abilities to serve the next level clientele.

Anointed Press Graphics, Inc., is your one place stop to shop for all your graphic designs, printing, book publishing and website needs. We specialize in branding your company to attract the customer you deserve.

Call 301-782-2285 at we'll be happy to serve you.

We're located at 11191 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, MD 20623

http://www.anointedpressgraphics.com/

Does your competition have a website?

2011-01-26T11:37:00.003-05:00

If your competition is online, your business needs to be right there next to them. With today's technology forever changing, business owners also need to change with the times. Many potential customers will start and end their search online. Many people go with the first business they see that sounds appealing to the ear and eye.

If that business is your competition, then you are already loosing business. Some small businesses can get along fine with the basic website that explains their services, location, hours of operation and maybe a gallery of what they offer. However, if your business provides products, then you need a website to capture the audience that you do not come in contact with. You will not believe how easy it is to expand your sales geographically to potential customers that are actively searching online.

Even if you have a non profit organization, it is imperative that you have web appearance. Many people will search the website to see what your company is about and how you are making a difference in the lives of other people. Also when you think of online donations, you want to make it easy for people to donate.

Anointed Press Graphics commitment to our customers is to provide the highest quality design services. We can handle all aspects of the design from the initial concept to the final production. Our customers includes, large companies, small businesses, entreprenuers, churches, and non profit organizations.

Let Anointed Press Web, a division of Anointed Press Graphics create a website for you today.

www.anointedpressweb.com
301-782-2285

Tips and Strategies - Building Your Business Beyond a Hobby

2011-01-15T16:05:00.002-05:00

There are many reasons why people go into business for themselves. Some people feel like there has to be something other than the 9-5 job; for some there friends or family members talk them into turning what they like to do into a business and for some they may have gotten fired from their job as was now forced to pursue their own. However, there may be some of you, like me, who just stumbled into a business, with no prior dreams of it.

Needless to say it is important for you to establish what your personal reasons for going into business for yourself. Take a minute and write down on a piece of paper 3 reasons for going into business for yourself. This exercise will help you to stay focus even in the rough times.

On the next blog, we will talk about what the difference between an entrepreneur and someone who treats their business like a hobby.

If you would like to find out more about how to build your business beyond a hobby, please order the EBOOK - "Tips & Strategies to Building Your Business Beyond a Hobby" by Karen M. Presley at http://www.karenmpresley.com/

or call 202-251-5616
or email me at: coach@karenmpresley.com

NEW BOOK RELEASE

2009-12-21T13:17:00.005-05:00

INTRODUCING NEW RELEASE

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed in juggling the many hats you wear? Do you ever ask yourself, "What do I do now?" or "I believe God is calling me, but I don't know what to do?" or you sense that there is something you are to do, but not sure of your direction?

This book is for you!

In this book, you will discover the power and the depth of this wonderful gift called "Grace." Knowing the depth of His Grace, will enable you to take the struggle out of life, as well as help you move forward in everything God has called you to do.

Pastor Karen is a gifted teacher and also the author of "Living Holy in an Unholy World." She has been given the assignment to help people overcome the struggles of there past, while teaching them to identify the root of their obstacles, so they can step into destiny, through a closer walk with God.

The momen you begin reading, you will be encouraged, strengthened and empowered to move out with ease into the next shift that God is bringing you into.

Go to: www.anointedpresspublishers.com/store and purchase your copy today or call (301) 782-2285 and we'll ship to you.

Introducing NEW WEBSITE

2009-12-21T13:01:00.005-05:00

Anointed Press Graphics, Inc.

is celebrating 7 years in business

January 2010

We are introducing a NEW

ONLINE PRINT SITE

www.anointedpressprinting.com

It's easy... You upload your files

and we'll do the rest and then ship to you.

Mention: coupon code: INTRODUCTORY

and take $10.00 OFF any order

salesperson: Karen Presley

Sharing the Love of God

2009-11-24T18:30:00.004-05:00

Love is a word that is often misunderstood, manipulated and/or distorted. Depending on the environment you were in as a child and what you heard or saw when you were a child determines how you define love. Love takes on many shapes and forms. We have brotherly love, family, spouse and friendship love; however, no matter what love we experienced, God’s love is higher than any other love out here.

In order to share the love of God it denotes action. It requires us to give or distribute something; however, it can be difficult for some of us to share of ourselves when we are going through something. Jesus was the perfect example of getting outside Himself to share the love of God. When He was on the cross, He was bleeding, suffering, hurting, weak and in pain; but yet in spite of His own agony, He showed love and forgiveness when He said, “forgive them for they know not what they do.”

Love and forgiveness is the very essence of who God is. 2 Corinthians 5:14 says that the love of Christ constrains us. That means His love urges, impels and controls us. God’s love will urges or impel us to go out of our way and demonstrate God’s love that will impact others lives. God’s love has the power to save a life, restore a life and/or mend a life. Once we get out the way, then we can allow God’s love to flow through us. God’s love, if we allow it, will restrain us from fulfilling the lust of the flesh. It will bring about a level of control over the dictates of our flesh. My question to you is… what’s leading you? When a situation arises in your life that isn’t all that favorable, do you yield to the dictates of your flesh or do you yield to Holy Spirit. When we begin to yield to Holy Spirit that is when the love of God is constraining us.

So how do we cultivate/develop God’s love in us? Romans 8:5-8 tells that the carnal mind is enmity against God. Our flesh does not want to submit to the will of God. So therefore, those who are after the flesh will mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit will mind the things of the Spirit.

In order for God’s love to be developed in us, we must practice the following:

1. Practice getting into the presence of God. It is imperative that we don’t just pray on the run. We must develop a regiment where we have one on one time with the Lord. Prayer is good, but God also wants to commune with us. Being still in the presence of God, fine tunes our spirit man to be sensitive to His voice and leading. Being still in the presence of God is where He begins to pour into us our substance and supply and nourishment.

2. Begin to ask God to show you what are the opposing forces operating in you that is contrary to His nature. We have to get pass the “bless me” prayers and really begin to ask God to show us the things that are not pleasing to Him. Psalms 51:6 says “that you desire truth in our inward parts…” and Psalms 139:23 says, “search me, O God, and know my heart and see if there be any hurt in us…” It is the will of God for us to be cleansed, not only outwardly but inwardly. It is our responsibility to get before God and allow Him to show us those areas that need surrendering to Him.

3. Bind up every hindrance and obstacle in your life that keeps you from receiving the fullness of God in your life. Luke 10:19 tells us that we have authority over all the works of the enemy. So it is up to us to use the authority that was given to us by the Lord Jesus Christ. Take a stand against every negative emotion and every evil foe that would try to stop the flow of God’s love from operating in and through your life.

The love of God IN YOU will produce – self confidence, security, identity and purpose. The more of God’s love we allow to abound in our lives, will be the more of His love that can display through our lives. Just like Jesus, who was the perfect example of LOVE, demonstrated love, even throughout a difficult time.

Don’t let what you are going through; stop you from sharing the love of God this season.

Celebration of Women Service

2009-11-05T21:51:00.003-05:00

CELEBRATING YOU!

ACD Vaughn International Network of Women in Ministries
presents

Celebration of Women Service

December 5, 2009 at 4:00 p.m.

New Covenant Worship Center UMC
700 Wildwood Parkway, Baltimore, MD 21207

Please join me as I am receiving:

The Network of Women in Ministries
"YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE" AWARD

Self-Publishing 101

2009-11-03T17:14:00.007-05:00

Well I've just completed my 2nd class - Self Publishing 101 is turning out to be a huge success. People have shared so many testimonies about what these classes are doing for them.

Our next class is scheduled for February 2010. You don't want to miss it. It's a 8 wk class and we talk about the mindset of the writer to all the aspects of publishing and printing. We even build in accountability sessions. Going over and assessing where you are and what's needed to get you up and running.

Stay tuned for information advertising the next class. Check out our e-store:

http://www.anointedpresspublishers.com/store