The News

 Dear Gentle Readers!

I come into a still place of process. I come sharing that I do not want to be part of the trials and tribulations, a strong soldier list as part of being in the Army of the LORD. Take me out of the game, coach (not death), but this game. This part of the process... this lesson plan...this moment. Fast-forward me to the "finish work", the "victory place", the blessed place."I don't want the trials and tribulations!!!

I know you are wondering where this is coming from.... Well.... last week, my mom got the news that she had cancer, and this week we got the news of the status. So, on Monday morning, while my mom was in Birmingham, Alabama, and I was in Washington state, my best friend and my mom went to her first oncologist appointment. I sat in the bed with my husband...praying... crying... being cool on the outside...but having a whole panic attack with an overstimulated nervous system. I went through the worst of the worst thoughts in preparation to execute an action plan. I created the most chaotic situation that my heart could handle. Yes, I am a therapist, and I know none of this is healthy, but here I am doing the opposite of what I tell my clients to do... sue me... I am human...lol! Before this information, I got the news that a good friend of mine died. Her death affected so many people, paralyzed a lot of us, and just made me think... What do I need to do with my time here on the other. Fast-forward in my still process about the friend's death, I get the news about my mom. Back to the story... So my mom calls me calmly, saying... they say I have a tumor on my uterus, and nodules on my lungs. She then gave the phone to my friend, who sneaked into the bathroom to say in a shaky voice, " Drika, it's bad! Baby, you have to come home". I am like ok, tell me what's going on (I was calm when I said it) as I had her on speaker phone with my husband next to me. She then tells me the details, and I say ok, I can't come home by Friday. Y'all, it wasn't that I couldn't come home, because Daddy had shown out financially, it was that I didn't want to come home. I want to be on the road home with my husband, enjoying the open space. Being a wife and making memories. I know that sounds selfish, but here I am allowing my only child's syndrome to speak. Yes, I am going home, but the journey is overwhelming to my soul. This was not where I wanted to be. 

If you are new here, I apologize that this is your first read. For old readers, you know your girl will spiral out of control and then come back. I call it the David complex. You know, through his psalms, he will start with praise and worship and then go into his emotions and end with praise and worship. In the words of Vivan Green... "I am on an emotional rollercoaster." But this news does not stop the reality of GOD's healing. I literally just wrote about the wait and how I want a baby... Now I am writing about trusting GOD again!!! Begging GOD for the miracle of healing my mother, at the same time healing me. Looking to write about the testimony.  I forgot to tell you that for the past month or two I have been praying for wisdom.... MAN, this is such a test of that. 

Today I prepare for my flight home, tomorrow I arrive, Friday I get the clarification and treatment plan of the news. But as this is taking place I am still asking GOD for wisdom. Wisdom on how to be a daughter in the midst of her own healing. How to ask for help when I am usually Miss. Independent. How to be present and not predict what GOD is going to do and how I should respond. This news is drawing me to watch GOD with my eyes wide open. Yep, I need the confirming signs, wonders, miracles, reminders, and insight. Because this feels different. It feels out of my control, and it hurts, because the fear of this healing leading to death is a reality. But I was reminded in my spiraling that I know several people who have survived this journey... Who have are walking testimonies of  GOD's healing power and grace... And that is my stand... GOD, if you DID it for them, you do it for my mom. Give me the wisdom to do and handle the process. 

My scripture while on this journey of process, wisdom, and trust is this: "Show me your faithful love this morning. I trust you. Show me what I should do.  I put my life in your hands."~Psalms 143:8 ERV

I am sure I am not by myself. I know someone reading this has gotten some news that has shifted them into process mode and wants to catastrophize the situation to the point you are having internal panic attacks. But let's take a deep breath and trust the process in the midst of the news. We can't predict what GOD is about to do, but we can be assured of one thing... It will bring Him glory and work somehow, some way in our favor... Though the grief my hid the victory.

Prayer: Daddy, the news has us discombobulated, overwhelmed, and overstimulated in solution focus process. We want the victory ASAP. We want the miracle right now. We need to see your hand at work and your peace at play. We want to trust you, but it is hard when the news is heartbreaking, when the emotions are filled with weight, when everyone is looking for us to be the faith carriers. We are lost, we are hurt, we are broke, we are speechless, and honestly, we don't know how to pray when it comes to this news. The reality of the results runs through our heads, and they do not look like the promise of your victory. Remind us through this journey that you are the author and finisher of everything, you have equipped us with everything we need to move forward, and this is not about us; it's about you. In Jesus Name! AMEN

As part of this news, I have rebranded myself and created a logo for this blog.  Check out @CEOtherapist22 on IG and follow me.

The Chapter of Wait

 Dear Gentel Reader!!! (Inspiration from Bridgeton)

I am writing this blog with a heavy and anxious heart. I have meditated on the following scripture:

 Psalms 130:5-6 (ERV) "I am waiting for the LORD to help me. My soul waits for him. I trust what he says. I am waiting for my LORD, like a guard waiting and waiting for the morning to come".

Psalms 143:10 (NCV) Teach me to do what you want, because you are my God. Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

Psalms 46:5 (AFV)God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God shall help her at the approach of the morning.

 Through my meditation, I feel like the Holy Spirit sat me down for a personal counseling session. In the session, my guardian angel, Jesus, and me with the Holy Spirit leading the session. The Holy Spirit looks me in my eyes and gets me together about my posture of waiting and my position of purpose. I sit there, speechless, in tears, frustrated by the reminders, mad at the truth, and overwhelmed by the idea of continuing to wait without the fruit I want, at the timing I want it. (Did you hear and see me throw that tantrum?) I did.  

Listen, this chapter of wait hurts. It has my soul meditating on my imperfections.  Trying to examine whether there was anything I missed, need to correct, or just did not do that got me here. My spirit whispers comfort,  reminding me to surrender it all at the feet of Jesus and trust the process. My flesh is fighting the process, thinking of ways to make this waiting short, coming up with ideas to produce what I want, and letting my selfishness be the guide. 

I know I am not by myself.  I'm sure this chapter has shown up multiple times in our lives, and every time, Daddy blows our minds and shows us how it worked out for our good. Then maybe weeks, months, or years later, we're back in another episode of the waiting chapter.  Going through the same emotions. Maybe this time, be a little patient with the process and ourselves. Maybe a little wiser with our ability to be still and quiet in hearing  GOD.  Maybe a little more obedient, not as many tantrums, and sprinkles of trust and surrender. 

No matter what we are waiting for, the waiting chapter is a reminder that Daddy is the author and finisher of our life story. Also, we are reminded how we will never be able to understand the process of GOD.  We can only trust it and understand that victory is the final result. 

Prayer: Daddy, the posture of waiting can be a lot as we are positioned in purpose.  Help us! Help us be still.  Help us surrender.  Help us get over us. Help us to trust the plan, process, and timing of your hand. We desire to learn from the waiting, to see it as a gift, and to realize it's temporary, not permanent.  Daddy, today we ask that you change our hearts, minds, posture, position,  and response to waiting.  

In Jesus Name. 

Amen!

Welcome to 2026

 Dear Reader,

If you are reading this you might as well shout! You made it to another year.  (Cue shouting music). Lately,  I've been noticing a lot of people still feeling this sense of hopeless even during a new year. Today during my quiet time I read this scripture in 2 Corinthians 4:16 "So no wonder we don’t give up. For even though our outer person gradually wears out, our inner being is renewed every single day".

After reading  this I got this revelation:

I think hopelessness becomes strong as we end a year and start anew. It feels like a failure... that the conquer we are to be is lost somewhere or doesn't exist. But I think this is because our human nature wants to keep yesterday in today. Ok... let me bring clarity. We keep saying we surrender, we let go... but reality is...we just change the packaging of things. We feel like if we do enough tweaks and changes, it will make us feel better. Not realizing that we are not making room for the manifestation of GOD'S promise to do something new. He can't do new with old. He is not in the business of refurbishing. New today is just that.  Something we have never experienced, no knowledge of, or awareness of how to move through without Him. I think that's why He gives us new grace and mercy.  It's an opportunity for us to trust and lean on Him.

Prayer: Daddy, help us to make room for your new by being ok with the fact that we don't have to know or understand it to embrace it. Help us understand that trusting and leaning on you is all you need from us. We surrender our imperfections,  perfectionism, and doubt to you. You never see our mistakes and failures as we label them. You see them as opportunities for your detours and recalculations to get us to your will,  assignments,  and perfect peace. In Jesus' Name. Amen! 

Another Chapter, Another Assignment

Dear Readers, it's that time of the year again. P.S. if you are reading this,  I'm glad you didn't get caught up in the rapture. (Yes, it was a joke. No man knows the day or the hour. Not even the one that died for us to have access to the father.)

Back to our regularly  scheduled program. 

So, as I use these last couple of hours (yes I'm writing  this blog at night) to say my final goodbyes to this chapter. I stand in tip toe anticipation to welcome the next. This chapter ends with me moving from Ms. To Mrs., having my dream job, and increased faith and gratitude. It also, ends with hard and heart decisions and goodbyes, grieving moments, and accepted consequences. 

This next chapter starts  the journey  of seeing the manifestation of what I have been praying  and preparing  for, including the next assignment.  

This week I had the privilege to reconnect with a friend  I deem as a brother and one of big sisters finally answered the phone. In catching  up with the both of them the theme of their lives parallel.  The theme grieving life changing moments. Moments were only Daddy's intervention is needed and wanted. As they shared what was going on, I started having mixed emotions... they  were grief and joy. The grief  of hearing the pain they had and are facing and enduring. The grief of their loss, disappointments, and frustrations. I know you asking, how can you have joy hearing this.  Simple, in this current chapter I learned the life application  of Nehemiah 8:10 "the joy of the LORD is my strength." It means that the formula that they are experiencing will yield space and capacity for the joy of the LORD to become their strength. This means they will become weak and the strength of GOD will manifest as they build their testimony.  How do you know, you may ask? Because I've been there before on numerous occasions.  

Now, don't allow my excitement for their victorious end,  fool you into thinking I'm not praying for them and surrounding them with love. Because I am doing that and more. But their current  moment forces me to increase my faith. The faith to know that Daddy will do the absolute most on their  behalf, including  performing a miracle in their lives, keeps me from thinking about my own storm.

As excited as I am about this next chapter,  I'm somewhat in doubtful spaces. To get through I need  a win for my brother and sister.  I need the reminder that , the timing of GOD is perfect, even in midst of chaos.  I need to know I'm not forgotten in other areas I've been praying for. 

So, as I say good bye to chapter  42. I say yes to the assignments,  storms, faith building,  GOD moving, and life changing moments of chapter 43.

Prayer: Daddy thank you for this next chapter and the assignments that come with it. Thank you for the faith adventures, the peaceful moments, the increase,  provision, and mind blowing miracles,  signs, and wonders. Thank you for never failing me, in the midst of me giving up. Thank you for being a dependable GOD! In Jesus Name.  AMEN 

The GOD of Through

 Great Day Reader!

Look at me posting three posts in one month!!! LOL This is going to be a good year. The other morning during my quiet time I got a revelation about GOD. The revelation didn't make sense until I started thinking about one particular scripture...Psalms 23:4 "Even when I walk THROUGH the darkest valley, I will not be afraid (NLT). That word THROUGH stuck out to me like a sore thumb. It rang in my spirit and I to do more research on scriptures with the word THROUGH. Now these are just a few but they hold true to the revelation that I got.

• When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk THROUGH the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. (Isaiah 43:2)
• For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.(Phi 4:13) The verse most people know

Do you see the revelation? Ok, Maybe not. The Through of GOD is the power of His resiliency, the grace of His peace, the unconditional actions of his love, the limitlessness of His Mercy, and the reminder of your purpose. The Through of GOD creates a space of stillness. It reminds us that we have to be in a place where we make space for GOD to do His job. The Through of GOD allows you to be in a place to see His hand at work in real time. 

This revelation of the Through of GOD is deep and it really has allowed me to realize how to apply the THROUGH of GOD in real-time, especially during these difficult times and unknown spaces. Today, I challenge us to active  the Through of GOD so we can be beyond the space of survival to the place of victory and live in the blessings of GOD found in John 10: 10 "I came that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." This scripture emphasizes the abundant life that can be found THROUGH Jesus Christ.

Prayer: GOD right now let us work the power of your Through by letting good of our expectations of what we want things to look like for our lives. Help us to take hold of your stillness, bask in your peace, walk in the purpose of your will and love, and expose our struggles to you. We trust your GOD and we thank you that in your Through we can do the mind-blowing things you called us to. In Jesus Name! Ament

Rainbow Year

Great Day Reader!

The other day I was talking to my big sister and she was asking me about what I would be celebrating this year, especially when it comes to me. I told her that I did not think there was anything to celebrate; however, I was grateful for the things that I had overcome during the past couple of years. She then began to tell me that this is your rainbow year. I was like rainbow year? See I always associated a rainbow with the promises of GOD, but also with miscarriages. I am sure you have seen mothers say this is our "rainbow baby." My sister immediately told me no, your rainbow year is about you recognizing the fact that you overcame your trials, tribulations, difficulties, cycles, and you have conquered your fears and built up your faith in areas where you struggled to trust GOD!

Listen!!!!! That blessed me!!! Maybe we have lost our ability to celebrate the wins and the victories in our lives, because we are so busy trying to get to the next blessing, goal, dream, happiness, or survival tactics for each year. But, can I challenge us to do five things 1) slow down. 2) rest. 3) be still. 4) reflect. 5) create the capacity to celebrate. Let me say it for the people that still may be processing... IT'S TIME TO MAKE THE CAPACITY TO CELEBRATE YOU!! 

I know you may be asking now how do I make the capacity to celebrate me. How do I enjoy my Rainbow Year. I am so glad that you asked because this is going to be the simplest thing you do, but the hardest thing as well, because change has to be a lifestyle not just a decision. So here are five things I am challenging us to do as we celebrate our rainbow year. 

1. Forgive others and yourself daily. GOD gives us new grace and mercy daily. Let's stop trying to store the grace and mercy from yesterday as a backup or just in case GOD doesn't come through today. 
   
   
2. Allow yourself to enjoy grace. Grace is a gift we did not earn; so there is no need for us to try to figure out how to keep it or gain more of it.
   
   
3. Give yourself permission to heal. I know it hurts and that this space of healing can be uncomfortable, but you need to in order to create the capacity to celebrate.
   
   
4. Breathe. You do not have to rush. This is a marathon, not a rat race. You are in the world but do not have to conform to it. Slow down it's ok to breathe and rest.
   
   
5. Surrender and boundaries. Know your capacity when it comes to being around people and allowing people in your space. You have to know how to say No, stick with the No, and realize the power of your No. You also must under the power of yes as well. Yes to surrendering your all to GOD. Yes to surrendering the difficult stuff as well as the easy things. Yes to surrendering daily and being ok with the process, plan, and purpose GOD has for you. 

This year we will stick to these five things and ask the Holy Spirit to bring them back to our memory when we need to do to enjoy the Rainbow Year GOD has given us. 

Prayer: Daddy, thank you for this rainbow year. We do not take this moment and year for granted. We understand it is a reminder of your promise to us, your word of truth, and your ability to come through. We are reminded that if we trust you with all things at all times we have nothing to worry about. We appreciate and honor who you are. We are grateful fo your plan, even when we do not understand it. In Jesus Name. AMEN

 

Day 21 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: The Finale

 Dear Reader: 

I am excited that you got to join me on this awesome fast. I hope it blessed you like it blessed me.

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Day 14 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: IF/Then formula

OOOO we have to play catch up!!! It's my fault! I hope that you are enjoying this fast. Let's dive into the last formula for week 2 and then go into week 3. 

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 11 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: Obedience Formula

 Hey Reader!

How are you? How are you doing on this fast? Are you feeling like things are happening and you don't know what? I know I am. It has been a strange week for me. I have been in my emotions, feeling heavy and overwhelmed, and I still don't know what I really preached about on Sunday. I feel out of it. I want to be a better person this week, but I feel so drained. With all these things I am encouraged that GOD is about to do something BIG. Being Obedient can cause these things. Being in the position of choosing to write your blog over getting so much-needed sleep can be taxing; however, worth it when you do it because you love GOD and do not see Him as the judge only. Check out today's video as we dive into the obedience formula.

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 10: This Is Personal (TIP) Devotional Testimonial Nugget

 Dear Reader:

Have you ever just wondered what GOD was doing? Like what He was really up to as we do this thing called life with him.  Well, for today's video, GOD pivoted what I thought was the flow this fast. Just watch the video you will get it.

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 8 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: The Four Frequent Formulas of GOD

 Dear Readers,

I am so excited about this second week of the 21-days of prayer and fasting that we are on. This week we will dive into the four frequent formulas of GOD and how to apply them to our everyday lives
.

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 9 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: Love Formula

 Dear Reader: Join me as we talk about the love formula and how it can be applied to our lives during this week.

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

***We do not own the rights to any music played during this devotional

Day 5 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: Will You Not Know About It

 Dear Reader,

Can you believe it? We are on the 5th day of our fast! I am so excited to hear what Daddy is already doing and revealing in your life!!! Don't forget if you are behind you have plenty of time to catch up. Don't allow being behind to be an excuse for why you can't participate. 

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 4 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: See, I Will Do A New Thing

 Hey Readers Hey!!!

How are you doing on the fast? How are you feeling? Please share what GOD is doing for you during this time and make sure to join me on Youtube by subscribing to my channel. Hey and remember we are doing our first morning prayer on Monday.

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 7 pm cst (starting February 1, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 2 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: Forget the Former Things

Great Day  Readers we are in Day 2! 

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 9 pm cst (starting January 25, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

Day 1 of This Is Personal (TIP) 21 Day Fast: Foundation of TIP Fast

 Great Day Readers!

I can't believe that today marks day 1 of our 21-Day fast. I am so excited to see what GOD is about to do during this personal time. I have attached the video for today here in the blog. Please make sure to subscribe to this channel. I really think GOD is about to do something BIG after these 21 days. 

This Is Personal (TIP)  is a 21-day fast and journey. During this journey, we will move from seeing the Word of GOD as a guidebook to seeing it as a space for personal encounters with GOD! We will explore three focus scriptures and create space for us to reflect and journal about: How to create our own record book with GOD,  How to move from who we are to who GOD has called us to be, and How to stand firm in the process during the difficult times.  Though the journey is individualized and personal, it allows for collective accountability and discussion. 

You can send your prayer request and answers to the homework assignments to: thisispersonaldevotional@gmail.com

Also, join us for prayer on Mondays and Thursdays during the fast:

Mondays at 6 am cst (starting January 29, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86178915186?pwd=Q1JKMFlpMENaeFZNaHZXLzB4QUROdz09

Meeting ID: 861 7891 5186

Passcode: TIP2124

Thursdays at 9 pm cst (starting January 25, 2024)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84134169890?pwd=Z2xQallweWQ4NTBnSTlZeWpXN3cydz09

Meeting ID: 841 3416 9890

Passcode: TIP2124!

And Here I am

 Dear Readers,

I have failed at the task of blogging regularly.  I have created unrealistic expectations based on the desire to be consistent.  I realize it's been a year almost since I last wrote something.  What a shame!

This type of mentality is how we feel when it comes to our walk as a believer. We focus on the goal and expectations, instead of the wins. We emphasize the negative and our language reflects it. Then after we have vomited our negativity,  beat ourselves up, and wallow in the failure...sometimes to the point of depression or anxiety,  or both, we then ask Daddy where is he.

How dare we! But seriously...How dare we... Can I express that it's not a dare? It's being human.

There are times we are so focused on our spirit that we don't realize we need to address our soul. Don't get me wrong.  The spirit man is number one; however, we can't neglect the other two parts of us (soul and physical)  and think we can be productive. 

Nowhere in the word does it say neglect your soul to the point that we don't acknowledge, that it is part of us. The word says don't allow it to be the ruler of who we are and how we operate. 

The soul helps us to express grace through our emotions, feelings, and intelligence.  It allows our human side to process what our spirit man already has a revelation of. 

I know you are like Shawndrika why are you telling us this?  Because someone needs to be freed from perfectionism and embrace grace.  Someone needs to stop holding themselves hostage to unforgiveness and forgive themselves.  Someone needs to acknowledge their emotions and feelings,  but not allow them to rule how they do life.  Sometimes life is not lifeing...sometimes our soul is running our life.

Prayer: Daddy help us to not be soul beings alone. Help us to recognize spaces where we have allowed our soul to rule, that we don't make room for you and your guidance.  Be the light that lights our life when darkness tries to destroy us. Help us make room for your grace, love, and peace. In Jesus Name.  Amen 

And It's A New Year!

 Great Day DDC Readers!!!

It's been a while I know and every year I say I am going to do better with my blogging and engagement. Life has been somewhat a roller coaster in 2021. A lot of loss and a lot of life-changes that equate to grief. First of all, let me first say HAPPY NEW YEAR! Second, please check out season 1 of my newest project with my sister Jesus +Therapy, Sis Podcast ok, now that the announcements are out the way let's get down to business.

The scripture that has been running through my head is something that I am sure most of you have heard and/or read "But don't dwell on the past; don't concentrate on what happened back then. Just look at something new I'm going to do now! In fact, it's started already. Can't you see it? Yes, I'm making a way through the wilderness, rivers in the desert"! FBV This bible verse speaks volumes on what our mindsets should be in 2022. For the last two years we have dealt with covid and can we be honest it ain't going nowhere (yeah I know what I said and how I said it; however, you know the disclaimer, this blog is imperfect in grammar and open in heart thoughts). We are so caught up in trying to navigate the disappearance of it, that we are missing the moments of GOD's newness in it. So, let's break this scripture down so it can be a guide on how we are to navigate through 2022. 

1) We can't allow the past to be the guide or map of our current. The past will always come up and the memories of the past may seem more powerful than present moments, however, the present is the gift we have to focus on. Let me summarize, don't miss your growth because you think you have not learned from your past.

2) Focus on the new things that GOD is doing. Don't allow your old to outweigh the new. 

3) Change your response and perception. Your ability to be open to a new vocabulary and to see things through GOD's eyes will create a better perspective of what life really looks like. 

4) Be prepared to win! Winning comes with a process, don't allow the process to discourage you from reaching and enjoying the win.

5) Don't get comfortable. You should maintain a posture of discomfort at all times as you go through this year. If you feel yourself getting comfortable, do something uncomfortable so you will not stop growing in the things of GOD.

Prayer: Daddy thank you for this new year. Help us to be in a place of trusting you will all things and being ok with the new things you will do this year. Help us to see things from your perspective and not our own. In Jesus Name. AMEN!

Hebrew Boys Faith

Listen I don't know about you, but the weight of waiting has been heavy on me lately. The wait of waiting on the unanswered prayers and deepest cries of my heart desires. I was talking to my mentor about how I was feeling and how the weight of waiting was turning into depression. I found myself paralyzed and lame in the thoughts of my wait. After telling me the feelings I felt were ok my mentor hit me with a question that hurt me and arrested me at the same time. She said "Shawndrika,  what if what you have been waiting on never manifest in the earth? Will you respond with the faith of the 3 Hebrew boys...Even if He doesn't do it we still know He can?" (Daniel 3:17-18) I looked at her crazy as tears fell from my eyes to know this statement of faith could be my reality. Though I felt broken at the thought of this reality, the Holy Spirit arrested me at the same time. He reminded me that when the 3 Hebrew boys made that statement it wasn't  from a place of doubt or hopelessness but, from a place of true surrendering. They were saying to Daddy even if we don't see you manifest the situation in our favor like we want you to, you will still come through and get the glory out of  our lives. That's the key...Daddy getting the glory!! What you are praying and waiting for may not manifest or come in the package you want, however, if you surrender it to Daddy...it will manifest His glory in your life and draw you closer to Him. I hope this word and revelation reminds you that the wait is worth it! Remember the weight is there for you to surrender not to hold.

Prayer: Daddy we thank you that even in our heaviest moments you wait for us to surrender that you may get the glory out of our lives. We yield to your will today as we wait for you to manifest your glory. We take heart that what we are waiting on may not come in the package we want or the time we think we want it, however, it will come on time and work in our favor. In Jesus Name. AMEN!

It Hurts When People Drop Me

So when I was thinking about this blog, I was going to talk about how people drop you so quickly when things don't go right between the two of you. I was going to touch on how the selfishness of others can cause them to drop you when they should be picking you up. That when people drop you they leave a footprint of rejection on your life. But Daddy had another plan and because " I just want to be obedient". (Topic from day1 of #bloglikecrazy) I am going to do that.

When Daddy turned this blog around he brought me to 2 Samuel 4:4 where we learn about Jonathan's son Mephibosheth. This verse discussed what happens when someone drops you. You become crippled. What got me were the verses before and after the drop. There was a sense of fear that came over the kingdom and the people. The person in charge at the time had no answers to what to do and how to fight, yet he found time to rest. In his resting, he was killed. (this happens all before the drop) The people that killed him bring his head to King David as a sign of victory but in return are killed themselves.  (these things happen after the drop) My question is what happens in the middle of the drop? A lot of times we are in a place where someone has dropped us that it cripples us to wanting or desiring to go to our next. We find ourselves depending on others to take care of us. This is where we see Mephibosheth in 2 Samuel chapter 9. David has done everything up to this point that Daddy told him he would do as king. But, he is reminded of the covenant he had with Jonathan and asked this simple question in verse 1: "Is anyone in Saul's family still alive--anyone to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan's sake"? He gets his answer in verses 3-6a of this chapter. 

See, what I realize in this story about Mephibosheth is, though he was dropped, abandoned, and forgotten, someone remembers the promise attached to his legacy. King David realized that though he had completed the works Daddy had called him to, he had not honored his friend or the covenant he made with him. How does this apply to us about being hurt when people drop us? Though Mephibosheth's nursed dropped him to the point of crippling him, Daddy saw an opportunity to revise the legacy of a friendship. He saw an opportunity for what was broken and had no value to gain value and wholeness again. That's exactly what Daddy wants to do for us after people have dropped us. He wants to revise us, give us value, and make us whole again.

I know you are wondering what is the moral to this blog? That though they hurt you when they drop you, Daddy is going to make sure that your crippling experience will cause you to grab the attention of a king.  That king will be reminded of the promises attached to your legacy and will call you to sit at this table and enjoy the fruits of his labor.

Prayer:  Daddy thank you for the reminder that when people drop us, that it will not hurt our legacy.  Thank you for helping us to remember that we are worth to sit at the king's table no matter how broken we look to others, you see us whole and valuable. We thank you that you have given us the boldness and bravery that we need to forgive those that dropped us, causing us to be crippled by fear, frustration, loneliness, and bitterness. In Jesus Name. Amen

P.S. #bloglikecrazy day 3 completed