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!

2024 and More

 Happy New Year Readers!

It has been a while I know and that is because life has been lifeing. I have had so many changes and challenges while still trying to keep the faith that  Daddy says that it will all work together for my good and will bring him glory. But where is the glory in disappointment and delays? OOOO.... that just hit me like a ton of bricks.  I am sure I am not the only one who has asked that question at least once in their life. However, we are in a new year and you know the saying "new year, new me"! I don't always agree with that, because there are some things from the previous year that I probably still need to work on in this new year. With that being said I am inviting you to come on a 21-day journey with me as I fast from personal things. I am doing something new and including a video with the blog. GOD is really creating this fast as I work on developing it. The fast will start January 22-February 12, 2024. I know you asking now Shawndrika what's different about this fast, versus the one that I am doing with my church or small group. Well, this fast is personal. 

Let me explain, I have fasted on numerous occasions with my church, friends, and small group. Though it yielded some great fruit, it had me hyper-focused on dos and don'ts versus the GOD will and have your way. Let me be honest it didn't feel personal. It didn't feel like what I was giving up was a sacrifice that could move the heart of GOD to see how committed I was to making room for Him in the area(s) I didn't trust him with. Yes, the Daniel fast is great, but because it's one of the popular fasts it starts to feel like a cliche that we do as a church at the beginning of the year. Translation it is a routine to add to the many routines we already have. This fast creates a level of accountability and self-examination. It dives into a space of personal sacrifice on an individual level versus that of a collective, while still creating discipline, community, and consistency. This fast will make you evaluate how you trust and see GOD in this present moment and cause you to start your own record book with HIM. Listen, I am getting excited thinking about it. I am in a place where I have to take GOD out of my comfortable box of how I know Him and expand how He wants me to know Him. In other words, I can't keep limiting my intimacy because I fear the process that comes with it. So if you are curious about this fast join me on the 22nd and see if this is for you. If not that's cool. However, I challenge you to check how you box GOD. Does your relationship with Daddy cause others to be curious about how to get to know Him? 

Prayer: Daddy, we thank you for this new year. Help us not to box you to our comfort level, allow us to meet you where you desire us to see you. Let us never become comfortable with our level of intimacy with you. Help us desire more of you in a world that is forever changing. In Jesus Name, AMEN

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 

The Sense Available To You

 Great Day Readers!

I'm so excited to get back into the flow of blogging.  A lot has happened and I'm ready to share the journey.  

So, today I want to share this scripture from my devotion and the revelation with you. I am going to meditate on this for a while I challenge you to do the same.

"You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands". Psalms 119:73 NLT

Did you read that? Listen, that scripture hit me like a ton of bricks. I feel a lot of us are book sense Christians, we read the Bible and try our best to follow the principles of it. But this scripture give a whole outlook on what sense we should have. It literally says that we should ask for the sense to follow GOD's commands. Proverbs 2:7 tells us that common sense is a gift. "He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walks with integrity". NLT

This scripture reiterate what we need to add on from Ps 119:73. In other words common sense and the ability to be obedient to GOD is not in the actions its in the asking. When was the last time you asked Daddy to give you the sense to follow Him and the gift of common sense to sustain your walk with Him? 

I hope this bless you. Chew on it and see how you can apply this to your now. It may be the missing piece to your next level, faith growth, miracle, increase, and breakthrough. 

Prayer: Daddy today after reading  these scriptures we realize that our ability to follow  you and be Christ disciples is not in the actions its in the asking. Daddy we ask that you give us the sense to obey you and that you continue to offer the gift of common sense so we can maintain our obedience to you.  In Jesus Name.  Amen 

I Am Worried

Hey Readers!!! 

I know it's been a while and I promise you all have been on my mind, but life... I am sure you all can understand how life's ups and downs can get you so off-tracked and discouraged that you start to place energy away from your assignment onto the things you should surrender to GOD.  As I prepare to celebrate another year around the sun and a new year. I find myself worrying about things I haven't worried about in the past. I am worried about being a great daughter to an elderly parent as an only child. I am worried if I am prepared to deal with the single life for another year with no children. I am worried if I can deal with the ups and downs of life healthy.  These worries have had me up since 4:34 am this morning asking Daddy to come to the table with Jesus for a "Come to Jesus" meeting. I asked Daddy how did I get here. What did I do or go wrong when it comes to how I have been living life for Him and with Him? I was so frustrated to point that I stop speaking and surrendering, that I start asking for a word. You know what Daddy did?!? He gave me a word not once but twice. The first word he gave me is found in

 Proverbs 12:25 NLT " Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up". The TPT version says "Anxious fear brings depression, but a life-giving word of encouragement can do wonders to restore joy to the heart".

Both versions address what I have been feeling, worry and anxiety, which leads to a place of depression and lack of joy. But what really got me was part B of the scripture "an encouraging word restores joy to the heart." Listen!!! I almost lost it because I realize I was so busy dwelling in the cave of worry and anxiety that I was not making way for the encouraging word. The word that could restore me... The word that would cheer me up. David said it best in 

1 Samuel 30:6 "And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God." 

There are times in our worry and anxious moments when we must encourage ourselves in GOD. This means we must surrender. Let's focus on part B of that scripture using the word surrender. "David surrendered himself to the LORD his GOD." That scripture and the action of David take on a whole other meaning of what we should do when it's time for us to encourage ourselves. It reminds us that to truly be in a position of encouragement we must surrender... not just the things we don't have handled, but the things we have a handle on. 

The second word came from an ex that is a friend. He struggles with his GOD relationship and from day one of us meeting I have prayed that he would have an encounter with GOD that would change his life and push him into his GOD destiny and healing. This morning he says to me:

"Hey, something told me to call you to give you this scripture Phillipians 4:13, I am sure you are familiar with what it says, but I am going to remind you what it says...You can do all things through Christ that strengthens you. This doesn't include failure. So, no matter what you go going on, you are promised success". Now I am on the phone with tears coming out of my eyes saying, ok Daddy you really do love me. Because he got out of his comfort zone just to be obedient to give me that word.  I want to encourage someone you may feel like your ability to encourage others may be in vain or you may be sowing seeds on bad ground, but let me tell you the process, the seeds, the wait, and obedience are so worth it. Mind-blowing blessings are on the way keep up the work and stay in the posture of surrendering. 

Today I challenge us to do three things 1) surrender EVERYTHING to GOD; 2) give an encouraging word to someone so you can have room to be encouraged; 3) trust the timing and promises of GOD. The wait may seem heavy; however, the fruit is great and worth the process (preaching to myself)

Prayer: Daddy we surrender all!!! All to you and the things you have in store for us. We surrender the things we think we have control of, and we make room for you. We expect you to handle everything that concerns us because you are not a man that you would lie to, and your words say we can trust you.  In Jesus' Name. AMEN!

And This Happened

 Great Day Readers! I hope that your Holy Week truly started the way for you to grow in your relationship with Daddy, be aware of the revelation of the cross, and create moments of closeness and manifestation of the presence of the Trinity. 

This morning doing my quiet time I came across this scripture. "Before you do anything, put your trust totally in God and not in yourself. Then every plan you make will succeed". Proverbs 16:3 TPT  That scripture hit me like a ton of bricks. Because it tells me the step I need to overcome the fear of failure, grow my faith, create guaranteed success, and how to continue to grow. The step is so simple it's scary. The step is to TRUST TOTALLY IN GOD! I know what you are saying... Shawndrika dull! However, that one step is hard because it comes with three uncomfortable actions we must take: 1) surrender 2) lose control 3) obedience to the unknown (faith). I don't know about you, but, I struggle in all three, especially when I need results like yesterday. Not only do I struggle with these three, but these things, are also inconsistent. When storms come, when issues arise, when things seem not to be working in your favor we must go back to the actions we must take which are the three steps listed above.  My prayer for us today is to trust Daddy at a level that those three things become easy in all areas of our life and not just the areas we are comfortable with doing them in.  Prayer:  Daddy, thank you for giving us the step to guaranteed success. Help us to be able to do our part when it comes to trusting You. Let us be able to do these actions no matter if we are comfortable or uncomfortable in the situation, issue, or circumstance that we are trusting You in. In Jesus' Name. AMEN!

Good Friday

Great Day Readers and Happy Good Friday!

This blog entry is going to be short and sweet and to the point. I really wanted to share with you my thoughts as we prepare for the end of Holy Week with Easter 2022 on Sunday. 

I'm sure some of you are like me in asking why is today called Good Friday? When we know that on this day thousands of years ago Jesus had been captured, beaten, and going from judgment hall to judgment hall while being mocked along the way. As I was praying I got the revelation, today is Good Friday because we see the fruit of Jesus manifesting like never before. We see the actions of his teachings being done by him. He became the ultimate example today.  We see scriptures come alive and principles he taught being put into action by the teacher. His journey to the cross and our access to eternal life started today. That's why it's Good Friday. What should today teach us? 1) The process of our assignment and yes is not about us. 2) Don't get discouraged when it seems like everyone is against you on your way to your next. 3) Live out your Yes and enjoy the fruits that manifest from it. 4) If they keep looking for an excuse to justify their actions towards you remember that victory and freedom are yours. 5) Your silence speaks greater volumes than any action you could ever make. 6) GOD will fight your battles even when you can't feel Him. 

May this short yet impactful message encourage you to see the actions of Christ on his way to the cross as a reminder of how great, good, and wonderful our Savior and Daddy are. 

Prayer: Daddy thank you for allowing your son to be the ultimate sacrifice for our eternal life. We take notice and create moments to encounter your love for us during this time. We understand that Holy week is a designated time for us to observe, remember, and rejoice over the process of your son's yes. Yes to your will, word, and way, and his assignment of dying so I can have direct access to you. We don't take this week or his assignment for granted. We rejoice at the fact that because he said yes, we in return have the power and authority to speak things that are not as though they are. We love you and we thank you for loving us first. In Jesus' Name Amen! 

I Don't Want to Be Gold

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 Great Day DDC Readers! It's the last day of Black History Month and I want to go out with a bang. As you know I am working on being more consistent with blogging, by at least writing a blog once a month. I thought today would be a perfect day to address something as we deal with what's going on in the world. But, before we dive in I have a question for you. Have you checked out Jesus+Therapy, Sis on your favorite podcast platform? No, what are you waiting for? Just Click Jesus+Therapy, Sis, and join the conversation. Now, that the announcements are out the way. Let's dive into the word and message.

So, currently, as I write this Urkinane and Russia are at a place of war. The news is reporting everything that is going on, and we see that there are some racial remarks being made. We also see that the African citizens of Urkinane are being denied the ability to get on trains or subways in order to get to a place of safety in Poland. I have a sister who is Jamaican and she reported that there are Jamaican students who are walking 14 hours with the HOPES to get to a safe place. Yes, the HOPE to get to a safe place! This breaks my heart that in 2022 racism continues to have a global reach in the midst of a major war. WOW! During my prayer and meditation time, I was reading my Bible plan, and this scripture 

1 Peter1:6-7 (TPT) came up and read me. 

"6May the thought of this cause you to jump for joy,  even though lately you’ve had to put up with the grief of many trials.  7But these only reveal the sterling core of your faith, which is far more valuable than gold that perishes, for even gold is refined by fire. Your authentic faith will result in even more praise, glory, and honor when Jesus the Anointed One is revealed".

I know you are wondering what about this scripture read me. I am glad you ask. Let me break this down for you in verse 6 it says "even though lately you've had to put with the grief of many trials". With everything that is going on in the world, the grief is thick and the trials of life seem to feel unbearable to me. It feels like GOD has forgotten about His word. That Daddy is not listening to His Daughter. It has really caused me to think... Am I valuable to Him, like He says I am, or am I making this up? However, verse 7 is the read "But these only reveal the sterling core of your faith, which is far more valuable than gold that perishes, for even gold is refined by fire. Your authentic faith will result in even more praise, glory, and honor when Jesus the Anointed One is revealed". Did you see what I highlighted? The true read of this verse is the theme found in these two highlighted sessions. YOUR FAITH! These moments of grief and trials are to produce the purity of your faith in its most authentic form. This is not about the situation. This is not about the circumstances, people, or even the emotions and feelings you are feeling about it all. It's about, you having the FAITH to trust Daddy.  Do you have the FAITH that no matter what trials, tribulations, or grief moments you endure that it will result in praise, glory, and honor to the Father!?! Receiving this revelation made my life change! It reminded me that what seems like a dark night is really a fire that creates another level of next level and FAITH in me! It makes the scripture Proverbs 30:5b more clear "Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning". Listen the joy is found in the strengthening of our FAITH. 

So, don't allow the grief and trial to derail you from the process of the fire. The fire's job is to take your faith to the next level that you can experience the unmeasurable joy of the LORD.

Prayer: Daddy we thank you for the fire that we call trials and grief. We realize that these moments give way for the manifestation of next-level Faith that will produce praise, glory, and honor unto you.  You are might Daddy and though we may not see the trial and grief as a moment of Faith, we ask that you change our view and vision to see it that way. Let us respond to these moments knowing that you are about to take our Faith to the next level. Let us responds with joy and gladness in our hearts, trusting you in the process. In Jesus' Name. AMEN!

She Reached The Hem of His Garment

Great Day Readers!!! 

Can you believe that January has almost ended and we are about to be in February and that I have done two entries this month?!? Let's pray I keep it up! I am going to truly try as my life continues to create opportunities of demands and advancements. My declaration this year is to be consistent in all the assignments GOD has called me to. 

This morning I  sent out a text to the people that are in my inner circle about something so personal and vulnerable to me. It came after me preaching a message and honestly me realizing I had never said some things out loud about parts of my life as a wife. I had never openly and out loud admit that my bleeding was caused by a miscarriage because by the time we got to the doctor to see what was going on I was no longer pregnant. After taking pregnant tests prior. What do you do when you know something; however, your denial and others' influence will tell you that you are lying to yourself? (That's another topic for another day) Below is the message that I sent to my circle that I feel that you could benefit from. I hope that it blesses and frees you as it did me.

Good morning! Listen on yesterday I got to preach on the story of the woman with the issue of blood, it's one of my favorite stories due to the fact I used to be her. No, I didn't bleed for 12 years; however, the almost year of bleeding felt like forever. It created so many emotional trauma moments and increased my areas of fear. It causes me to question my existence and my womanhood. I was married at the time to an insensitive husband, who didn't understand the fears that haunt me in my sleep. Not meeting his needs, realizing I had a miscarriage, and not knowing if or could I get pregnant again. I felt alone and isolated, ashamed, embarrassed, and scared. However, during my morning meditation, these scriptures spoke to me. 

God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares. See if there is any path of pain I’m walking on, and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting way— the path that brings me back to you. Psalms 139:23‭-‬24 TPT

 He heals the wounds of every shattered heart. Psalms 147:3 TPT 

I know you are wondering how did those two scriptures speak to you. When I reflect back on that moment I remember the anxiety and depression I felt, "anxious thoughts and path of pain". It wasn't until I ask Daddy to search me that the second scripture started to manifest. I don't know where you are in this journey called life. I don't know if you are still in the first scripture or you experiencing the second. I just want to encourage you to stand still and allow Daddy (GOD) to heal you. Know I'm praying for you and I love you! Thank you for the honor to do both.

Even though that text was for my circle, that text was meant for you as well. You may not be in either place. You may be in a place where life is all good and you are progressing along in this journey; however, use this as a reminder when times get hard.

Prayer: Daddy thank you that even in the midst of adversity, disappointment, frustration, and confusion, you are there to search us, guide us, and heal us. You are there to remind us that you heal, you create wholeness, and you are at peace we just have to stand still long enough for you to search us. We love you and honor you. Thank you for being the one that creates ways out of no way. 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!

It Don't Take All That: I Don't Want To Pray

 Great Day Readers!!!

I am sure you are seeing the title of this blog and are truly puzzled since the blog is based on conversations with GOD and prayer is conversations with GOD. So, I want to explain myself and get to the thoughts behind the title. On yesterday before we started the recording of our podcast Jesus+Therapy, Sis (check us out on Spotify and Youtube, make sure to like, share, follow, subscribe, hit the bell, and leave a comment) I told my sister I had got a text from one of our friends about an event called "The Gathering." I looked at the website for the event saw several pastors and ministry leaders that I knew and I was like ok interesting. The friend was like you should be here sis. I told the friend that I did not see anything pulling me to come to the event. She was like you don't know who these people are, I was like yes. She went on to state how some of the speakers were Generals in prayer and how they influenced her life. I was ok. She was like you don't feel pulled sis 😲😲😲. I didn't respond. Because to be honest no I didn't feel pulled. I then made a statement to my sister before the recording " I don't want to pray"!

 I know what you are thinking and we did a whole podcast on my statement. Let me explain what I mean. There are people that are called to the place of intercession. They are passionate about interceding for others, praying, and going before the thorn to get all the heavens and experience GOD on so many levels.  Ya'll that ain't me. If I could be honest with you, my readers, I struggle to pray and this particular friend is a general in prayer. I mean she shifts atmospheres with her prayers, and she is passionate about that area. She even wrote a book about it and it is great. When I said, " I don't want to pray", I simply mean that I don't want to be so caught up in the experience of someone's ability to pray a certain way that I don't find my own way to talk to Daddy. I stated in the podcast that people pray from their prayer experience. Don't believe me, let's check the bible. Jesus prayed from the position of the savior, he was able to have an open and honest dialogue with Daddy about how he felt and what he was thinking. David prayed from a place of pay and wanting relief, which is why we see him being angry and then reminding himself that he has to focus on Daddy. The disciples prayed from a place of hope and intimacy because they had tangible encounters with GOD. The Children of Israel prayed from a place of promise and hope because they saw what GOD could do when they were obedient and sometimes even when they weren't. So many times when we pray, we become so intimidated by the experience of others that the spirit of comparison takes over we find ourselves not wanting to pray. 

It's not that I don't love to pray, I do, however, there are times were my prayers, because of my experiences and my desires to go to another level where I find myself in a place of intercession. However, my passion and positions in that prayer time are to really just have a little talk with Jesus. I don't want to find myself in a place of comparison with those that may have a deeper level of prayer, and feel the need to force myself to be there. To be that deep, to go through some experience that is really not mine to be able to be on their level. If I have to do what they do in order to GOD's attention I am like this, I don't want to pray.  

There are times in our lives as believers that we find ourselves in a position where we want GOD on another level, however, we want Him through our authentic experience. We don't want to feel like we have to work to talk to GOD or that we have to do what everyone else is doing. We want to work our part in the body of Christ and not be judged or ridiculed that we don't look like everyone else. I think this is why have people who were once saved saying they don't want to do this anymore and why we have a generation that is not desiring GOD like past generations. 

Can I be honest? We make everything about GOD in religion impossible. That's why I feel that body of Christ, Christians are always being judged and talked about. Between the rules of the various denominations and the attributes of what holiness looks like, it becomes overwhelming to want to connect with an untouchable GOD. It makes prayer a chore and not a conversation of intimacy and with the expectation of response. 

My prayer is that as you read this you realize that your prayer life is based on your personal experience with Christ and your relationship with Daddy. That you do not fall into the trap of comparison that it causes you to not want to pray or even respond in prayer when life creates situations beyond your understanding.

 

Prayer:  Daddy, help us to remember the principles of prayer and the goal to connect and communion with you. Helps us not to get caught up in another person's experience that we must our own personal experience with you. Helps to see prayer as an exciting time to communicate with you and not a chore because it's the job of what a believer is suppose to do. Help us not become intimidated by other's experience or feel judged by their prayer growth. Let become motivation for us to want to communion with you more. In Jesus Name! AMEN

That's It!

Great Day Readers!

 It's been a while since my last blog and can I tell you it had been a whirlwind of a year already. I mean three snowstorms in Alabama, yet along in the south is totally unheard of, along with tornados, and other crazy life changes. This week took that cake! This week I had to let my sorority sisters know that our sister had passed! UGH, THAT'S IT!!! If being single and waiting wasn't enough, I am now having to deal with life-changing things on my own. I don't know about you, but I got a "THAT'S IT" in my spirit. I have been approached by so many men who are seeking marriage, however, are emotionally unavailable and truly just using their gift of gab. THAT'S IT!!!

Now, the spirit of "THAT'S IT" is strong. It creates a heart of discouragement, frustration, and sometimes disappointment. It makes you think that what you desire seems impossible (Though we know nothing is impossible with GOD. Mathew 19:26) This spirit had me so over everything that I did not know what to do. I had a come to Jesus meeting with Jesus about the situation and the emotions I had about this "THAT'S IT spirit. I am sure I am not by myself. Waiting for some things to manifest, serving GOD as much as you can, in excellence, while still trying to keep your flesh in check. Oh, don't forget about listening to married church people talking about if you just work and focus on GOD he will come. Ma'am, sir, HOW!?!? I can't work, when I'm busy killing my flesh, trying to keep my emotions in tack, trying to be obedient, and still trying to "enjoy being single after being married." Oh, let's not forget having to explain to people that being divorced and single is different than never being married and single. When you have tasted the fruit of marriage you desire it again after you have healed from it.

 Can I be real? It's been 8 years since my divorce, and I am going into my fifth year of celibacy. I have no babies, and the thought of marriage is getting discouraging. Dating seems like it's more time-consuming than a process, and it seems like EVERYONE is getting the revelation of marriage and love but for me. Oh, don't even get me started about the fact that everything that I prayed for, screamed about at the altar, cried about in worship, and rolled on the floor about in my closet is happening for EVERYONE in my circle, BUT who, ME! These are some of the few topics I discussed with Jesus during our come to Jesus meeting. After I got done I heard the words from Proverbs 23:26 (TPT) "My son, give me your heart and embrace fully what I’m about to tell you". Where you see the word son, it was replaced with daughter for me. Can we break this scripture down so we can break this "THAT'S IT" spirit? Let's start with the first part of this verse, "My son, give me your heart". This first part broke me all the way down. Daddy literally asked me for something I should surrender daily. He asked me for the one place that captures everything about me. The place that I function from the most, and have been for a while...My heart. UGH. The reason this spirit has a hold on me is because my heart has conformed to the things of this world. The measurements of time, space, and energy, the very things GOD created and has complete control of. Let that sit. The place Daddy needs to start the deliverance process is the one thing we all struggle to surrender...our hearts. Let's go to the next part of the scripture, "embrace fully what I'm about to tell you". UGH!!!! Not only do I have to surrender my heart, I also have to sit still enough to hear what He has to tell me. Let me say that again, we have to sit still and hear what Daddy has to say. There is power in the stillness, even if it feels like there is no one there. This is the climax of my deliverance. This is where the spirit of "THAT'S IT" loses its grip on your life, and you grab hold of the joy of the Lord. Now, this is a process and it doesn't happen overnight. You must be in a place where you are patient with you and understand that the work that Daddy needs to do in you takes time. 

I am still in the process of my deliverance as I write this blog, however, I understand that in order for me to prepare, walk-in, and be the wife that I am called to be, I must go through the process and realize That's It!

Prayer: Daddy, we come to you right now thanking for the ability to realize when we have a "THAT'S IT" spirit. Help us surrender our hearts to you and to be still enough to hear your voice of instructions while taking them in not just for the moment, but for the lifetime. We understand that if we surrender us it will lead to the that's it in you. In Jesus's Name! AMEN

Happy New Year...Apply the Lesson

 

DDC Readers!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

I know it's been a while and due to Corona my therapist calendar has been booked and continues to fill, as people start to realize that their mental health is not as healthy as they thought it was. Now can we have a moment of silence for 2020... Moment over!!! LOL Listen, if 2020 didn't teach you anything it should have taught you the value of time and people. The whole world shut down as we tried to wrap our heads around this virus and the destruction it was causing on a global level. Also, we have to be aware of the time that was produced during these shutdowns. (I didn't have that time as I worked as an at home essential work....a.k.a. "Therapy Life"). You know the time I am talking about. The time that we talked about during those busy workdays, traffic jams, and errand runs. You know the time we talked about when we said, " I wish I had time to do__________ (you fill in the blank). Not only did we see time become more of something that we gain in 2020; we also saw the loss of valuable people in our lives. 2020, gave us the manifestation of death like never before. When I was watching the news, I heard a report refer to the death toll of 2020 as the biblical 12 plagues that the Egyptians faced while keeping the Israelites hostage. I can kinda agree. It did feel like the death of all deaths.

However, there was something that I heard in my spirit the whole time of 2020 as we endured so many losses and heartache. Are you ready for the revelation?  I heard the Holy Spirit ask me this one question... "Who ARE YOU"? I responded "A Daddy's Girl. A Daughter of the Most High...then he reminded me of John 15:19 CEV "If you belonged to the world, its people would love you. But you don’t belong to the world. I have chosen you to leave the world behind, and that is why its people hate you. " Despite all the losses we endured in 2020, those losses will never equate to the power we carry as children of Daddy. Even when it looks like we are losing we are winning. I need us to remember that as we go into 2021. Even when it looks like we are losing or things are not working out for our good due to the principles of the world, we can't get fixated on it. We must realize that what the world is experiencing doesn't apply to us. We are in this world, but not of this world. "Them principles don't apply to us"! (LOL)

Prayer:  Daddy, we thank you for the constant reminders that no matter what happens around us, or in this world, in the end, it doesn't apply to us. We thank you that because of your adoption we have the authority to tap into your power, favor, joy, peace, and grace. That even when the enemy thinks that we are losing, we still win, because everything works out for the good of those that trust you and follow you according to your word. 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!

Emotional Seeds : The Corona Edition

This virus called Corona has truly turned our world upside down. It has no target audience, no cultural difference, no area of focus, and no economic status. When I tell you that we were and are in this together we are. We have seen many die, however, we have also seen many recoveries from this virus as well. We currently live in the unknown as many states slowly begin to open back up and try to create a sense of normalcy. We live now in a world where we have distanced ourselves to save lives, however, this same distance is causing others to die internal with the results of external symptoms. With all that being said I want to challenge us to do something that was placed on my heart to do during this time of famine and uncertainties.

During my meditation time this past week, I found myself asking the question I feel all believers have been asking... GOD, how do we end this? What do we need to do to get back to a place of normalcy? I am sure like me and others you have struggled with the inability to gather at your local church and fellowship with fellow believers, or perhaps during this time you desire to have that fellowship because you want a better relationship with GOD. There are so many things that we need answers to and have questions about. Let's go back to what I was talking about... During my meditation time with GOD, He told me that so many people are sowing financial seeds (which is a good thing if you have it to sow. I truly encourage you to sow in this area, especially during a time of famine), however, one seed that we have yet to really address that is need during this time of famine... (Let me pause and tell you why it's a time of famine. It is a time of famine because we are lacking the natural resources and flow of those resources to meet the needs of the people... hence why states are trying to open up that the flow of some economic wealth can come into the state and country. This is the reason I am saying this is a time of famine. Things that were once easy to obtain. (tissue, paper towels, Clorox, Lysol, etc. are no longer easy to obtain) ) Ok, no more interruptions back to the reason behind this blog. (this is why I have to start blogging more...lol) GOD told me that in this season we have to sow emotional seeds. Now I know you are wonder....What are emotional seeds? Emotional seeds are: love, joy, and peace... A.K.A. some of the fruits of the spirit. These seeds are seeds that will not only produce great fruit in the lives of others but also produce great fruit in your life. The fruit of favor, blessings, wisdom, peace, and love. See during a time of famine, no one is looking for a harvest. They are looking for produce. They want the end results, not the seeds.  So, this means that no one will mess with the soil of your seeds. No one will uproot it or cause it to die before it produces your fruit. In summary... "This is the best time to plant seeds, no one will be able to taint it." 

My challenge to you today as we continue to find a new norm during and after this virus is to plant some emotional seeds. The need for their fruit will be in demand and is in demand as you read this. People need the connection of the human touch. However, due to the season that we are in, that same touch that use to heal now kills. Now we have to find a way to produce the same results in a new way and that's through sowing emotional seeds. Now I forgot to tell you how you sow these seeds. You sow them through text messages of encouragement, zoom video calls of listening, phone calls of support and love, letters of hope, and laughter of memories. Listening we have enough bad news to deal with, it's time that we pursue the heart of Daddy's joy in this season.

Prayer: Daddy, thank you for the opportunity to sow emotional seeds into people that I am connected to and even strangers. I understand that we are living in a time of famine and uncertainty and the best thing I can do is make myself available to you. Daddy, help me be the best seed sower during this time of famine. Let me be bold enough to love hard, become grateful in all things, and check on those I think are strong. Daddy, help me be open to accept emotional seeds as I sow them. Help me to maintain balance and never pour out on empty. In Jesus Name AMEN!

I really hope this blog blesses you during these uncertain times. Please know that your physical and your mental health is truly important. If you feel like you need help in the areas of your mental health. Please text the word Villiage to 205-660-0376, to be connected to a mental health expert. This is the perfect time to get everything you put off in order. #noexcuses #mentalhealthawarenessmonth

Your Purpose is Waiting on You

Have you or do you ever find yourself asking..."What is my purpose? How do I obtain my purpose"? We are sure that you answered "yes" and could relate to at least one of those questions. As a Therapist, I always find myself in conversations with people seeking a life filled and driven by purpose. We get the age-old questions "How do I find out what my purpose is"? Well, can I bust some myths and state some facts? 

Myth 1: Purpose is something you seek. 

Fact: The bible states that purpose was given to you before you were formed in your mother's womb. ~Jeremiah 1:5

 

Myth 2: Purpose is hard to obtain.

Fact: Purpose is inside you. All you have to do is tap into it.

Today, I want to challenge you to stop seeking purpose and start seeking the Father, so He can give you the instructions to tap into purpose. 

Remember this, "To gain access to purpose, you must tap into the presence of GOD". ~Min. Shawndrika Cook 

Prayer: Daddy, help us live this life with purpose, understand what you have purposed to do is already in us. Help us tab, maintain, and sustain the call on our lives. Allow us to be in a place to seek you always to gain another level of purpose. In Jesus Name! AMEN

New Starts Here

Hey Readers!! I know... I know... It's been a minute! I know I promised to do better, but life!!! I know.. No excuses and honestly there aren't any. But, guess what?!? 2020 will soon be here and I will try this again. However, I am not waiting until 2020 to get here to start my new start. My new starts here today!!! Yes, today! Let me catch you all up on the great things that I have already started that will be incorporated into my 2020. I have started #squadgoals which is a group of women that I not only send encouraging messages to but also keep me accountable and consistent. Then, there is #dearfuturehusband365 with a brand new look and content. Last but not least DDC (Daddy Daughter Conversations). I figured out a way to share new content and be consistent. I am excited and it starts tomorrow. So get ready for great messages and an awesome year!

Prayer:  Daddy, as we continue to finish the things of this year, help us prepare for our next. Let us not get content in waiting on a new year to arrive before we put new year things into action. Let us put into action our new year things now. Remind us that our new starts here. Herewith, an open mind, heart, and faith to trust you more by losing control more often. In Jesus Name. Amen!

The Out Pour of A Daughter

Great Day Readers!!!

Today we will talk about a conversation I with Daddy concerning people and situations. There are times when we need to just vent and then listen to Daddy!

Daddy, I have to defend myself... I am tired of them talking about me!!! They don't know.. they weren't there!!! Why can't they just accept my decision? Why do I feel the need to please them? Daddy... I gotta keep talking about it...It still bothers me... I know I forgave, he/she, them, and they...I know you told me to let go... But how?!? I have to have a dialogue with someone about it... UGH!!! Do I have to talk about it always? YES...I need to talk about it!! Daddy, t makes me analyze what I need to not do the next time. What I need to look for the next time. I am distracted, Daddy... by what the world has to offer... what goals I have to accomplish... the need to fit in...to show that I can...I did it, DADDY!!!... I am distracted, by what I haven't accomplished...it should have been done about 5 years ago. See, here is the date in my journal... age 25.. married...26...practice in place....27....pregnant with 1st baby... see daddy (pointing at journal notes)...it's right here...DADDY!!!! 

Daughter, calm down! There is no need for a defense when I am your standard. They have no power on how my plan for your life will turn out! They don't know the value of your testimony!  They don't understand what I am doing through you! No need to defend what YOU Don't even know! You don't know my plan. You can't even think like I do. We on two totally different pages. Stop defending yourself!  Find yourself in me and take refuge in what I have said in my word and watch me protect you! So, you feel the need to talk about it? Analyze what you did and did not do? Daughter why continue to talk about your past when I am presenting you with a new present! Every morning do not I breathe life into you??? What is there to talk about, but my promises and word? Nothing!!! What's done is done!  What's said is said!!  But the conversation you need to have is not with yourself, but me... I am listening.. I have the answers... no need to analyze when I have the answered. You need someone to talk to?!? You need to have meaningful dialogue?!?  I have the right person to have it with... ME!!! My Holy Spirit is speaking too!! This world has nothing to offer you!  What I possess for you is priceless and to get distracted with this world over my word is not what I called you to! I know you have heart's desires that seem like that are simple and easy to accomplish. I know that you have things plan and written down. Yes, I told you in my word to write the vision and make it plain. But, never once did I give you a timeline. Time is something that I am never worried about. I control it! I know what "Perfect Time" looks like! Yes, your list has value to me, because it's your heart's desires, but the time you have set to accomplish them has no value. As a matter of fact, it sets limits, valueless standards, and leaves no room for me to take you beyond what you have set. So, stop being distracted with what this world has to offer and become distracted with my word...my presence...my peace..my joy...my personal promises to you...my plan for your life...my victory...my voice...my guidance and leadership in your life. Be distracted with growing my kingdom and telling someone about me. You have so much more to be distracted with besides "this list" you have created, which has placed you in a comfortable box...which creates a blockage to my glory and voice. So, let it go I got you. Today, make up in your mind to have no defense, dialogue, or distractions when I am your DADDY!!! 

With Great expectation for us,
---Daddy

Prayer: Daddy, our prayer is simple today. Today we ask that you be LORD over our lives and create the path to our success. We let go of our control and we surrender all. In Jesus Name...AMEN

I Don't Care

Hey Readers!!!

I know it's been a while and I promised once a month you would hear from me, BUT LIFE!! Those two words alone can preach a sermon that reaches nations!!! But we will talk about that one later.

 Today as I was looking at my Facebook Memories and I ran across a post that I wrote when I was transitioning from being married to dealing with my divorce, to being single again. In this season in my life, I was in a place where I was nonchalant about a lot of things, including my relationship with Daddy. We were just getting reacquainted with each other and I was in a place where everything that could happen, happened!! I was lost and I had developed an attitude and even verbiage of "I Don't Care." So, here is my confession and I hope it helps someone. We will talk more about it after you read it.

Confession: I am really in an I don't care mood. I don't know why I feel like this and I am sitting in my office trying to shake it off... But then I hear the Holy Spirit says to me  I don't care is not a bad place in the right timing... Let me say that again "I don't care is not a bad place in the right timing."(I can shout right there) I know you are saying what does that mean Shawndrika? If I am trusting GOD to be the supplier of all my needs, the lifter of my head, and I am doing my part... I don't care if I have to wait. I don't care if I have to be single until he finds me. I don't care if people don't understand my actions. I don't care if I have to cry to get through the day. I don't care if my communication with GOD causes me to miss moments that others think are important. I don't care if I have to sow, separate myself, or even endure until He comes. I don't care if I have to be silent while people talk about me. I don't care if it hurts now, my Daddy will heal me later. I DON'T CARE!!! When you get to a place where you Don't Care in the right timing then you will realize the freedom in trusting the Father. Learn how to not care in the right manner and watch GOD turn things around. #notcaringwiththerightspririt #idontcareaboutthecost #itsworthit

Whew!!! Were you blessed by that? I know I was!!! It reminded me again the energy we put in caring about things that we can't control, out of our control, and beyond our control. It also reminded me that there are times in our lives where we put so much energy in caring about people, situations, and circumstances, that we miss Daddy caring for us. (Oh, someone is going to get that in a minute) we care so much about the next that we can't enjoy the now. Today do me a favor get you a healthy "I Don't Care," attitude and let Daddy care for you.

Prayer: Daddy, help us have an "I Don't Care" attitude when comes to things that you are taking care of. Let us gain more access to you as we "Don't Care," for the things of this world or the things people say about us. Help to Don't Care for the things you don't care about... Like sin, idols, and being disobedient. Thank you, Daddy, that we "Don't Care" in a healthy way! In Jesus Name. AMEN!