Thursday, February 26, 2015

Therapy Talk

Okay, you guys. Lets take a minute to be completely open and vulnerable. I am struggling with trusting God to send me my husband. Like its really bugging me. I trust him with every other aspect of my life except for that one. I know that he can and will bless me with my hearts desire but I just can't let go. Im so frustrated with myself. I want my heart to be healed already but its not. I want to move on already but I can't. URGH!!!  I tried to do my 30 day challenge of not thinking about relationships or men. Yea, CLEARLY that didn't work! Of course I've been praying on it. I know, I know -TIME HEALS ALL WOUNDS. But can time speed up a little ( or a lot)?

I always catch myself when I think about my ex or even my future husband I'm praying for. I remind myself, I have much bigger storms to worry about. Work is, well interesting. Family is crazy as usual. I have God's work to do. I have sisters that are relying on my strength/positivity/prayers. I cannot get side tracked thinking about love and all that. Don't get me wrong, a desire for marriage and love is great. But everything has its due season. This season is my alone time with God as he preps me. I know this but man oh man. My mind and heart are tricky little things.

As excited and happy as I am for my friends and family, my mind and heart make it seem like I am missing the boat. Everyone around my age is getting married or having babies. And well, then there is me. LOL sounds like a line from a movie. Actually I think it is! Anywho, not to mention the constant questioning from every elder on earth. When are you getting married? Do you have a boyfriend yet? Don't wait to long. He doesn't have to be perfect you know, no one is!  I GOT IT! Thanks! -____-


So far, this season of my life has been the most amazing and fulfilling. Its had its struggles but I'm pushing through. I'm experiencing a  side of God, I never thought I would. So why in the world can't I trust him for my future husband? Why can't I stop being a control freak over my love life?? I mean, I'm not the first person to get hurt and won't be the last. Why can't I just let go??

IDK! We'll keep praying about it! Hopefully one day I'll write about my healing and then about my blessing- Hubby 2016! ;)

Monday, February 23, 2015

He STILL wants you!

I just read an Instagram post that said, " His Plan is STILL in effect. He STILL wants you! This made me just smile inside. In my journey of faith and even getting to the season I am in now, its solely Gods hand. I declared Jesus as my Lord and Savior on August 26th 2010. I did not live it until November 30th 2014. 4 YEARS!!!! 4 YEARS worth of a detour. I said with my mouth and mind that Jesus was the way, the truth and the light but did not receive it in my spirit or heart. Instead of taking the road Jesus prepared for me once I accepted him, I did my own thing.

Think of it this way. Its like going on a safari and wanting to get to know the place. You request and get an expert guide. He knows the place like that back of his hand, he even lays out an entire plan to have you see all the amazing attractions that you will love and that will build up your knowledge of the place. But in your stupidity, you say oh thanks guide, I know this is your area but I'm gonna go explore on my own and just give you a call when I need you. Your crazy self goes off into the jungle and encounter things and issues you have no business even experiencing.

Now the beautiful thing is that the guide actually waits for your call. He warns you not to go off on your own but give you free range to do so. He know your going to encounter the wild animals, the traps, and pitfalls. That you will get scraps and bruises. He waits for the call to come rescue you, stitch you back together and take you on the safe path. The fact is the guide will always be the guide. He prepared the way for you so you wouldn't  have to go through the rough, scary, hurtful path. He designated a safe path right through the jungle, just for you. He took the bruises, the hurt, the fear to clear a clean path for you.

So the guide waits for you. He still wants to take you down the clear route he prepared for you. His objective of having you enjoy your journey, learn and become wise is still his main point. He wants to teach you along the way. When you come back from your stubborn, hard headed path, he still wants to take you through the journey.

Jesus is that guide. He wants to take you on the most amazing journey of life. Sure the road can get bumpy, there may be inclement weather along the way, and you may even have a random wild animal swing by your tour. The thing is Jesus your guide can calm you, shield you and defend you. You will never be alone.

Do you want the rough route and spend your time suffering through? Or do you want to enjoy the ride, learn and gain wisdom, and be protected? His plan for you remains. It is up to you to determine how it all plays out. He STILL wants you.

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Motivation Monday- Purpose Revealed

I believe I have just realized my purpose. All my life I've wondered why God gave me so much love and no way to pour it out. As I prayed for one of my Pinky Promise sisters, I realized this is why I have all the love in me to give. It's so that no girl will ever feel lonely, unloved, or have no friend. It's so that I can pour out all of God's love in me to help them get closer to God, by showing them God's love. I can help them, pray for and with them. I show them the love of God and pour out to them and fill them with the word of God.

For so long I tried to figure out how to get this love out but nothing worked. Nothing and no one could ever love me back enough. Honestly, nothing could ever take ALL the love I was trying to pour out. Its like I have this waterfall of love and I was trying to fit it all into a pitcher. It was too much for a lot of people. In same way, things could not satisfy me, lets face it- what is a pitcher of water to a waterfall? You see, purpose eases the journey a bit. Its like I have idea of where God wants to take me, so I'm not so scared or nervous. Its a joy to wake up in the morning because I have a greater purpose.

We may not work in our desired job but when you realize your purpose, it doesn't feel as difficult. Purpose without Faith is useless. If I know God wants me to be Singer ( that is my purpose here on earth) but I am flipping burgers, I shouldn't worry and rush God's process. Many people prolong and make difficult reaching their full purpose by rushing God's timing. So instead of flipping burgers by day and practicing and learning my vocal abilities/ strengthening my gift (lack of faith),  I rush and lock myself in a crappy production deal singing songs God had no intentions of me singing. Singing that does not produce anything in the will of God.

BTW: Your gifts/purpose is not a selfish asset! Your gift/purpose is always for the glory of God and many times its your purpose/gift that helps free someone else s gift/purpose. So when you prolong and deter your purpose, you inadvertently do the same thing to someone else. 

The funny thing about purpose is that it often hides in plain sight. Kind of like when your looking for your glasses and they are on your head or when you are talking on the phone but looking for your phone. Its something that you do for free and would continue to do for free if you must. Because the payment is much richer than dollars and cents. It fills your heart and spirit. Its as if you feel God smiling upon you.

What is it that make you smile with your heart? What is it that you do without monetary gains? What is that constant voice of God in your heart that helps not only you but those around you? What is it that no matter what you do or where you go- it just seems to be in you and cannot help but shine through you? That is your Purpose!

Love Ya to Peace,
Faith.Loves


 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified;those he justified, he also glorified.- Romans 8:30

Friday, February 20, 2015

Fashion Fridays

Hey Hey Hey!

Hola Beautiful People! So I have partnered with Ladisav.com on a series of post. If you have been following me you may have noticed a few staple posts. I will be posting Motivational Mondays, Relationship Wednesdays and of course Fashion Fridays!! This will also help me because I am reminded to post a bit more regularly. I really hope you all enjoy and most of all learn/grow with the subjects I've presented. I really would like to have discussions and question/answers with you all. So feel free to comment!

(We all are followers or potential followers of Christ so I would expect respectful and non threatening comments- I had to put that disclaimer..lol)

So let's jump right on into it! I am REBUKING this winter!! I miss and need Spring/Summer so bad. So I have been gearing up some Spring 15 looks I want to pull together this year. Take a peak!

SN: We are family right?, so if you know of any stores with amazing sales both in store and/or online PLEASE LET ME KNOW! :)

Also, for more of these looks and others follow me on Instagram @christianfashionista





Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Where is Your Fruit?

Have you ever met someone who says they are a Christian but you just don't quite see it. They supposedly pray and read the bible but all you can see is them in the strip clubs, drinking when they are upset, cussing up a storm or smoking to "feel better". These people that "have a good heart" lie, cheat, steal and are so disrespectful. What part of the vine is this?? If you tell me you are a Christian, where is your fruit?

I had one guy tell me no one needs to know if, when or about what he prays because that was between him and God. He even referenced a bible verse (Matt 6:6) Now although he was right, that is what brought me to my point today The Fruit! There is no way that you can go to God, be in his presence and not show anything for it. Your private relationship with God ought to have a public facing effect. Heck, even when Moses came down from Mt. Sinai his face was radiant (shining) because he had been in the presence of God. (Exodus 34:29) 

Galatians 5:22-23 talks about the 11 fruits of the Spirit. Now if you trying to convenience me, yourself, The President of the USA that you are a true Christian, you're going to have to prune some fruits my friend. This is not to say that you will be this perfect person, but there will be some evidence of God in your life. Its not even something that you can fake either. God is funny that way, your faking and he puts you in real situations that will show your true character. LOL.  John 15: 1-2 talks about God weeding out the fake from the real, the fruitful from the fruitless. 

Now let's put this into real life scenarios. If the guy you are talking to "looks" like he's a part of the tree, you know ( goes to church, knows a few scripture, grew up in the church) but homeboy's friends, social media, and interactions with you are TOTALLY opposite of all that. RUN!! Run like Usain Bolt!  

 Ya'll remember Lucifer right? Once an angel, knows scripture, lived in heaven with God- yeah him. You DON'T  want one of his people. Nah! Let's keep it moving, k?!

Honestly, the fruit of your relationships on earth ought to be the same fruits as your relationship with God. Everyone doesn't need to know ABOUT your relationship but they should know OF your relationship. There is no way to truly love and it not show. Everyone doesn't need to know the inner workings of your relationship ( what you do or talk about, etc) and just like that guy I mentioned earlier, everyone doesn't need to know what you talk to God about, what plans he revealed to you etc. However, the love, peace, joy, understanding, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control cannot help but show up and show out when God is in you and when you are in a blessed relationship.  

So I dare ask, Do you need to prune or cut off some branches? 

Love ya to Peace,
Faith. Loves





Sunday, February 15, 2015

Believe & Receive- Monday Motivation

Happy Monday Everyone! You're alive, working and/or in school. You have another chance to get the week right. Another chance to shoot for your dreams and turn them into your reality. I want to chat with you all about Believing & Receiving or the Law of Attraction as the world likes to call it. Almost anything is possible to achieve when you fully comment your faith into it. Especially when you put your faith to work on getting what you want. We all have heard or should have heard that  "Faith without works is dead" James 2:26  The law of attraction is simply faith. The fact that you have so much faith that you will make it and that you can do the impossible. That a higher force (God) will see your faith and bless you.

I remember going to a holiday party at my moms job when I was about 14 years old. At the party they had raffles and games with prizes. Right away I spotted the Victoria Secret bag and the box inside of body sprays. My heart was set on that one prize. I didn't even play any of the other games or raffles until it was time to play for that one prize. I could visualize the host calling my raffle number and me getting up to get my VS gift bag. The host called about 5 people and they each went up to pick their prize but no one picked the VS bag. The very last number called was my ticket number and the last prize was the VS gift bag. Now although I wanted it and visualized it with every fiber of my being, I was still so shocked when it happened. My mom who sat across from me was stunned with her mouth open as I told her at the beginning of the night, I wanted that prize and I was going home with it tonight.

The motivation here is for you to set goals and work towards those specific goals. Don't participate in distractions that hinder you from your goals. Visualize living your dreams as reality and do not be afraid to SPEAK! Speak of your goals, speak of your dreams. God hears you-servants of the Lord hear you and will help make a way for you. At work I always talk about my ultimate career goals, so much so that my department place me in a development program to help me gain experience in the role I want to eventually move to. I would love to meet my one day husband soon and begin courting. I visualize it. I have a vision board of words and relationship goals. I want to have 3 children and each day that I pray to God I mention all three of them by name to him. I lift up my future husband, family and career before the Lord. Proverbs 18:21- The power of life and death lies in the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

So I leave you with this to start your week. SPEAK LIFE!! VISUALIZE YOUR DREAMS AS REALITY! Believe that God sees your faith and hears your proclamations. Believe that all good is in his will for you.

Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Love you to Peace,
Faith.Loves

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Valentine's Day is for Singles too...

Valentine's Day is just 3 days away. Almost every couple is preparing something special for one another. Even those secret admirers are preparing something for their special someone. Moms are also excited to celebrate #babysfirstvalentines. Its an happy time for a lot of people around the world. On the flip side, this day can be very sad and depressing for a lot of people, mainly singles. As a single myself, I almost allowed the worlds view to get me to feel down about "missing" Valentine's Day because I am single. -____- How dare I get depressed over a man made holiday to validate "love" on just one day of the year!

The very base of Valentine's Day is love. Love is not subject to eros ( romantic/intimate) love. There are many different types of love. But let us remember the true foundation of love, God. God is love ( 1 John 4:8.)  That is the love that every being on this planet is in need of. God's love is also known as agape (unconditional) love. If we have agape love from God himself, single or married, then we all should be elated to celebrate Valentine's Day. Don't get so caught up in the material aspect of the day.

 (SHHHH.. don't tell everyone but some people that are "celebrating" Valentine's Day are not in love, only receive attention on this day and are just gassing  ::putting up a front::)

The real goal is to celebrate love everyday. With our families, friends, spouses and loved ones. Heck, have you ever thought to celebrate Valentine's Day for yourself, to make  yourself feel special and happy on that day? One of the lessons I learned from my ex was to not look to him or any other person for complete happiness. He would say all the time,  one of the most attractive things about a female is her contentment with herself. So ladies sulking will not get you a Valentine's any quicker, in fact that may slow down the process even more. God also asks us to be content with what we have and in seeing our joy with little he will please his servant with more, so much more that your cup may overflow. ( Hebrews 13:5 & Psalm 23:5-6) 

This Valentine's Day do not be bitter or envious. Instead love on someone who needs it. When is the last time you treated you parent(s), or visited your grandparent(s)? When is the last time your were nice to your sibling(s)? When is the last time you did something or spent time with someone less fortunate than you? You are a part of God's love and he needs you to spread that love to those who might not have it ever- not even for one day of the year. This is your chance to shine the light into someones life.

Testimony:
A couple weeks back I was feeling a bit anxious about Valentine's Day and being single. As I prayed for God to help me with that feeling, he dropped an idea on my heart. There are probably other people, young ladies that feel the same way I do right now. How can I help them? I organized a Valentine's Day dinner at a nice bistro for my single Pinky Promise Northern NJ ladies. Instead of being sad like the world wants me to, I decided that not only will I be happy and share love, but I will help other singles feel happy and loved especially on V-Day as well.

I pray that everyone reading this post knows that they are loved beyond their wildest imagination. God's agape love is with us always and forever. In case you absolutely MUST hear it from someone else... Happy Valentine's Day! I love you!

Love you to Peace,
Faith.Loves



Tuesday, February 10, 2015

The War was won but the Battle rages on...

From the moment I resurfaced out of the baptism water, I have been anticipating the battles to come. ( I highly dislike surprises). I have been keeping watch and praying for strength. I've also been praying for wisdom, discernment and protection. The past few days its seems the battle has finally truly began. The first hit being my heart and the attempted communication from my ex. The second being a work related issue. I'm going to be very honest with you guys, it has been quite a while but I really cried yesterday. As I prayed and petitioned before God, I couldn't help but cry. However it wasn't so much of a defeated cry, it was a  nervous cry. I really don't want to go through this but I whole heartily trust you God, come what may.

See, because I hate surprises, I always have everything planned or at least have an idea about what is going on. Even in these situations, I keep trying to play out different scenarios to prepare myself. But I had to stop thinking and relying on myself. I was trying to draw up a physical battle plan when the fight is spiritual. I wouldn't go as far as saying I doubt God in these problems, but I haven't fully poured my entire faith in him. I realize that God is requiring me to FULLY submit to him. So although, I am scared of possibly losing my job, I have to pray and believe that God will open a better opportunity for me. Though I sometimes struggle with matters of the heart, I believe that God is preparing someone special for me and  vice verse. For we are more than conquerors through Christ!

Romans 8: 31:39
31 What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?36 As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
    we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[a]
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

As I was preparing for baptism last year, my pastors as well as my mom and aunts kept reminding me that because I have decided to public declare my love and faithfulness to God, the devil will come after me more. That troubles will come like never before. But God! He is for his servants and will raise us on high every time. All we need to do is pray and have faith. Please keep me in your prayers as I will do for you all .

Love ya to Peace,
Faith.Loves

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” 

Monday, February 9, 2015

Because I'm Happy

One of my all time favorite verses in the Bible is Matthew 6:33 "But seek first the kingdom of God  and his righteousness and all these things shall be given to you." This verse is so empowering! All the worry and stress of life kinda falls off of my shoulders. My only concern is obeying the good word of God.

For example many people stress about work. We stress about getting the job, we stress while we are on the job and we stress if we are in jeopardy of losing the job. But what peace is there when we don't have to worry about things like that. Why sweat anything when the God you serve is ruler over everything? He cares for the birds and the ant, what more would he do concerning you his fearfully and wonderfully made child? Even when a situation arises that you are not pleased with, hand it right over to God. So many times we take on situations that we really don't have to. As Christians we believe that God uses situations to teach and to display his glory. Some situations are simply God saying "if you really trust me, watch this!"Your tests are later testimonies of his glory.  Other situations ( I've personally learned) is God teaching us things that will later help us. In my previous posts I talk about how my last relationship was so hurtful but I learned so many valuable lessons in it. God can turn messes in to messages that carry us through the next season of our lives.

So I challenge you today. When the tests comes today, do not fall for the trap. That boss or coworker, that classmate or professor, your family member or bf/gf do not let their attitudes or negativity pierce into the contentment God has given you. Instead when they come for you, take a second or however long you need to talk to God. Ask him for patience and understanding, gentleness and peace. Protect your peace! Focus on God's everlasting love and greatness. Remember that nothing can conquer you if you do not surrender to it.


Love you to Peace,
Faith.Loves

                                          Pharrell Williams - Happy (Gospel Remix - Adam & Kid)

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Flesh vs. Spirit... The "I Miss You" Text

 Alright you guys, I just got the SHOCK of a lifetime!! My ex, you know the one that I just got the strength to leave behind. The one that my heart is still soft on. YES!! That one. Just text me... in caps... I MISS YOU. Just those words, nothing else. What am I suppose to do with that? Where did he come from? Why feel like that now? A million and one questions.

SN: My first reaction was a really really really loud laugh. Like people stopped to look at me like I'm crazy laugh.

After I laughed I immediately began to pray and sham the devil for such a low blow. I mean you that desperate to bring me down. Lil ol'me! Matt 26: 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

This is a real life example of the Flesh ( my heart) vs. the Spirit ( holy spirit's guidance). I've been staring at the text for the past hour. I haven't text back. I don't know what to say if i were to feel compelled to say SOMETHING back. 

Now part of me is happy and excited. I set out to do a #30daysofGodsLove challenge where I would just focus on everything else that God has for me and not dwell on the aspect of relationships and men. Today is day 29 and I can see that this challenge is going to be TOUGH but I also see that God has a tremendous blessing waiting for me at the end of this journey. The devil does not want me to make it to the end of these 30 days because he knows I will receive my blessing. So of course he would send my ex to try to deter me from the goal. SMH!

Stay tuned guys! I am praying for strength and wisdom on this situation. Please keep me in your prayers as well.

Love ya to Peace,
Faith.Loves



Thursday, February 5, 2015

Nice to Meet You!

Hello Fabulous People!

I am UBER excited to connect with all of you! I cannot wait to have some girl chat about faith, life, makeup, shoes and All things Fabulous! First things first ( I'm the realest- Iggy voice) LOL. Seriously, most important factor about my blog and views is that I am a God fearing Christian. I love Jesus! I want to motivate my fellow women through faith, chat and support one another through relationships and have fun as fashionistas on any budget. I trust ya'll so my blog is very open about the things I've dealt with, dealing with and afraid to deal with. I believe that positive team work can go a long way, so lets one another through this crazy thing we call life. 

So lets jump right on in. I really want to discuss an up and coming Makeup Artist out of New Jersey. She goes by the name of InnerBeautyOut on YouTube and InnerBeautyOutEL on Instagram. As a darker toned woman, I have a tough time with makeup and finding the right products as well as how to apply them. Her latest post for a sultry Valentine's Day look is EVERYTHING! Check her out and let me know what you think? Also, put me on too. Let me know of any amazing MUA that I should check out.

Love ya to Peace,
Faith.Loves


30 Days of Gods Love

Lately, I've been struggling with my emotions. My mind and spirit are made up and aligned with God but for some reason my heart, well my heart is still struggling to catch up. I find myself in a repetitive conversation with God about sending me my amazing husband, The One. But this heart, URGH this stupid heart just wont let go of the last guy. I know, I know Time Heals but my patience is wavering.
I mean, do you guys understand? I have completely surrendered my life to God and he has proven over and over again that he will bless me. Some how when it comes to love, I have the hardest time. It makes no sense at all. Logically thinking as a God fearing Christian, I KNOW that whatever good I ask of God through faith and obedience he will give to me. Emotionally I'm struggling. This is so hard. I'm not jealous or envious of other relationships. I am not bitter or sad. Its the weirdest thing. I hope I'm making sense to someone out there.

You know what? I've made up my mind about this situation. I am going to do a fast (of some sort). I will not talk about love for the next 30 days. When I pray in the morning and nights of course I will still pray for my future marriage and family but that will be it. No dwelling on who and where he is or when we will meet. For 30 days my focus will not be on a relationship, men or love. 

I have to conquer this emotion. I have to show to myself that God IS greater. I WILL heal no matter what. Psalm 95:3 For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods. 

How should I check in? We can try Instagram. 
Check in with me through Instagram @faith_loves and using  #30daysofGodsLove