tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35726825810790577032024-02-06T20:04:32.736-08:00simplyObiomaObiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-54932107458517051082019-03-29T11:38:00.000-07:002019-03-29T11:38:03.433-07:00An Attitude of GratitudeYa'll, honesty hour.<br />
<br />
These past three months, my attitude has sucked. Although not outwardly visible, I knew it and God knew it.<br />
You see, I have a lot of life changes going on right now. My life isn't a balance, it's a juggling act. Sometimes I drop the ball, sometimes I drop multiple balls. The greatest lesson I'm learning: pick the balls back up and keep going.<br />
<br />
But back to my attitude. I've been trusting God for a couple of things. My prayer life has been a bombardment of requests, and it honestly feels like He's real quiet. I'd love to say I prevailed and continued the faith with the same level of enthusiasm as I started out, but I didn't. I threw pity parties, obeyed begrudgingly, fasted, cried and the list goes on.<br />
<br />
Through out this process, the Holy Spirit through sermons, people, articles has been challenging me to walk in gratitude. <b><i>Instead of using my perspective to focus on what I don't have and what I do want, why not chose to focus on what God has done and where I am.</i></b><br />
<h4>
Below is a short list of 26 things I'm grateful for. I hope as you're pondering on unanswered requests the Holy Spirit challenges you to focus on what God has done. Remember that access to God starts with thanksgiving and praise.</h4>
<h3>
<br /></h3>
<h3 class="passage-display" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 500; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 15.4px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span class="passage-display-bcv" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-right: 6px;">Psalm 100:4</span> <span class="passage-display-version" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 500;">King James Version (KJV)</span></h3>
<h3>
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<span class="text Ps-100-4" id="en-KJV-15513" style="box-sizing: border-box;">4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.</span></h3>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
<h2>
26 things I'm grateful for</h2>
<br />
1. <b>Health </b>- In this world of disease and death, I'm so grateful that God has allowed my body to remain in perfect health<br />
2. <b>Life</b> - No man is promised tomorrow, yet here I am. Thank you Jesus<br />
3. <b>My parents and brother</b> - You can't choose your family, but I'm so grateful for the ones I've been given.<br />
4. <b>Fiancé </b>- He liked it so much, he put a ring on it. If ya'll only knew half the testimony<br />
5. <b>Education</b> - Two degrees, wow. Nothing but God<br />
6.<b> Faith</b> - I can choose to worship Jesus, openly, and unashamed<br />
7. <b>Friends </b>- From my bestie to my closeties, I'm showered by real love all the time.<br />
8 .<b>Home</b> - I have an apartment that I can afford, and I don't have to worry about where I lay my head<br />
9. <b>Car </b>- I have four wheels, it may not be a G-Wagon, but it's gotten me everywhere and then some<br />
10. <b>Job </b>- I prayed and cried for my present internship. God obliged, more and better than I expected and asked for.<br />
11. <b>Church</b> - I'm connected to an amazing body of believers, they never cease to amaze me.<br />
12. <b>Finances</b> - There was a time I couldn't dream of affording the things I swipe so casually to pay for.<br />
13. <b>Past </b>- Even when I made the worst choices, my past is an example of the reckless love of God.<br />
14.<b>Culture</b> - Naija no dey care last, I'm proud to be a part of a rich blood line. #igbokwenu<br />
15. <b>Future </b>- Although tomorrow's not promised, my future is assured and God promises to work all things out for my good.<br />
16. <b>Gifts</b> - I love the fact that I have talents and giftings built into my nature and that God continues to bless the works of my hand.<br />
17. <b>Cyber community </b>- I get so much love from people I've never met all because of the internet - wow!<br />
18. <b>Travel</b> - I've gone so many places and preached the gospel in different continents, that's nothing But God.<br />
19. <b>God's No</b> - Every no has been because he desires to give me exceedingly abundantly all I could want or imagine.<br />
20. <b>God's blessings </b>- From randomly finding 5 dollars, to getting the dream career. I'm grateful<br />
21. <b>Ministry</b> - I'm honored God entrusts me with his flock. To think the God of the universe thinks I'm worthy of sheparding his flock.<br />
22. <b>Fashion sense</b> - I know someone may laugh at this, but I love the fact that God has gifted me with a passion for fashion (el-oh-el)<br />
23. <b>The yearn for more </b>- I'm grateful that I'm not content with anything less than God's best. As frustrating as it may be at times, it's a blessing to not be willing to settle.<br />
24. <b>The Bible</b> - I love that there's a living breathing standard of holiness, anytime I have questions, it's there lighting up the way.<br />
25. <b>Favor</b> - Walking in the favor of God is unreal and marked with undeserved blessings at unexpected times.<br />
26. <b>A relationship with the Holy God</b> - This one is self explanatory. No other religion advocates for intimacy with the most High God. I'm grateful that I can talk to Jesus as friend, savior, father, protector and the list goes on.<br />
<br />
Remember in the face of temptation. You serve a faith God, and He has blessed you exceedingly abundantly. Rest in that.<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
Obioma<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating my 26th birthday in style. </td></tr>
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<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-66613654510257085782019-02-20T12:29:00.000-08:002019-02-20T12:29:07.579-08:00Ya'll let's talk about money<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccZIP7ZaIsgp2KUY4rdCLHJl2AkdMBqOr5nDp5AlDCcUPZgO7psAceSfhuo9OI2gy3-11ZSwlioFdnaB2OKW3dPQII6IYTdeAdRXszFtg2eTzYsljYnd0NfPTQlcMAB_ladgQtgszwGr2/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccZIP7ZaIsgp2KUY4rdCLHJl2AkdMBqOr5nDp5AlDCcUPZgO7psAceSfhuo9OI2gy3-11ZSwlioFdnaB2OKW3dPQII6IYTdeAdRXszFtg2eTzYsljYnd0NfPTQlcMAB_ladgQtgszwGr2/s320/10.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#SheACTS2019 conference was amazing. 85+ women in one room, seeking God.</td></tr>
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<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>I hate asking for money.</i></b><br />
<br />
I know that's a strange way to start off a blog. But that goes to show you my whole attitude towards money.<br />
<b><i>I hate needing money, but I've been in multiple situations where that was the case.</i></b> I hate the idea of not being self sufficient, but yet, my whole Christianity has been a process of trusting God with my little.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Ya'll, let's talk about money.</h3>
<br />
How many of you like it? *raises both hands*<br />
How many of you need it? *raises both hands and both legs*<br />
How many of you willingly give it ……<br />
<br />
My love languages are words of affirmation and acts of service. So by nature, I love telling people things that edify them, and I also love doing things for others.<br />
<i>But, believe it or not, giving does not always come naturally to me.</i><br />
<br />
It wasn't until I became a Christian that God started dealing with me about intentionally giving to others. I mean giving to people who can't give back to me. Giving when I feel like it, and especially when I don't feel like it. Tithing not just when I can afford it, but when I feel like I can't afford.<br />
<br />
In this season of expansion, I believe that we will all be tested in our capacity to give. And the temptation will be to say no. Why? The life you live now, and the dreams you have require money. <b><i>The enemy tempts us with the mentality that if we give to others, we won't have enough for ourselves. When in reality that's not biblical.</i></b><br />
<br />
<h2>
2nd Corinthian 9:10<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #001320; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.</span></h2>
<br />
On the surface it may seem that that verse is talking about plants, it's not. It's talking about the things that God gives us. Seed refers to the resources that God places in our lives to produce fruit. Those resources can be our time, our things and especially our money.<br />
<br />
God know we need money, and He also knows that the love of it can kill us because that love is the root of all evil. So how does He solve this conundrum? He created a biblical principle that requires us to give in order to get more. God supplies us with more as we give of what we already have.<br />
So hogging your finances is not how you keep them, giving it away is!<br />
<br />
The gesture of giving requires an open hand, and so does the gesture of receiving.<br />
<b><u>I started off this blog talking about how much I hate asking for money, and can I be frank with you...I don't have to anymore.</u></b><br />
Because I've been so intentional about blessing others with what God has given me, I reap the benefits of that in my personal life, from a well paying job to friends and family who financially support me <b><u>randomly!</u></b><br />
<br />
This blog is not a PSA to promote tithing, or giving offerings to your church (although I think both are biblical and mandated). It's a challenge for you to get outside of yourself. I'm passionate about people truly living life and life abundantly that Jesus promises us in His word. And we can never get to that point as stingy people.<br />
<br />
Now I'm not advising you to give up all you money, but truly, think about the level at which you give.<br />
I know I desire amazing things from my father God. In the same token, I give when He commands, so He can give freely to me.<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
Obioma<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot" , serif; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-weight: 700;">Announcements</span></span></span></div>
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<li style="font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><b style="font-weight: 700;"><i style="font-weight: 700;">IF you haven't already, follow my passion project<span> </span><a href="http://instagram.com/biblesplusbrunch" style="color: #b38870; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.2s ease 0s;">@biblesplusbrunch</a><span> </span>on Instagram.<span> </span></i></b>BiblesplusBrunch is an intimate gathering of intentional women. The goal is to feed your soul + body. We encourage intimate fellowship with Jesus and other women through brunch, conferences and retreats! Visit our website: <a href="http://biblesplusbrunch.com/">biblesplusbrunch.com</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">I started a new YouTube series called <b><i>Bible Basics</i></b>. In the series I break down hard concepts in Christianity for new and seasoned believers. Definitely worth the watch! The first video is all about <a href="https://youtu.be/KHd2b2n_fNo" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: 400;">faith</a>!</li>
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<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-25141177765481217922019-01-03T12:30:00.002-08:002019-01-03T12:30:49.652-08:002018: Thank U, Next<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Cuban Streets - October 2018</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To be honest, 2018 was an amazing year for me.<strong> I started the
organization: BiblesPlusBrunch, to encourage and equip women to live
intentional and purposeful lives. I traveled to 6 countries, and got engaged to
the man of my prayers.</strong> I saw my friends get into grad school, start careers and
organizations, get into relationships with amazing men and even get engaged!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But as amazing as 2018 was, <em>I also learned so many though
lessons, questioned the spirit of God, battled crippling doubt and unbelief,
struggled financially, spiritually, emotionally and relationally and considered
50 million ways to quit it all(life included).</em></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Yes, all of this, same year.</span></div>
<h4 style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
And if you're human, I’m
sure you can relate to the bittersweet year that was 2018. </h4>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><em>Do I believe 2019 will be any different?</em> <strong><em>Absolutely.</em></strong></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But not because life won’t have its ups and downs, <u>but
because each year I exist is a confirmation that God’s plan for my life is
still in full effect and I can trust him to bring it to completion.</u></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<u><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span></u></div>
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">In the meantime, I took the liberty of writing the 3 biggest
lessons I learned in 2018.</span></h2>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">The absence of God’s
voice does not mean the absence of God’s presence.</span> </span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I struggled to hear the voice of God in 2018. I mean I
really struggled. And it always felt like when I needed Him most was when He
was the most silent and unwilling to speak. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I remember right before the second Biblesplusbrunch event, I
was desperately searching for an internship after being fired from my pervious
one (long story). My bank account was dwindling, my relationship was rocky and
God was unbelievably silent. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Yet he spoke enough to tell me to host another brunch. Where
was the money going to come from Lord? Who were the women who would show up?
How was this whole thing supposed to even happen?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">On the Wednesday night before the brunch I was still trying
to put together the pieces, wondering how I would fund this event and pay rent.
So what did I do during worship at church? I cried, I sobbed so desperately
that I’m sure heaven was shook. I could do nothing else but weep because my God
refused to hear my prayers, or so I thought.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But yet he was there. Miracles of miracles, my mother
blessed me with some money, an amount I hadn’t even asked for, more than I
could have imagined, but so timely. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">So there was God, silent through the struggle, but never absent
and always on time with the miracle.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;">Doubt exists to be
overcome by Faith. It is the one battle you’re equipped to always win.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I don’t have a long, beautiful anecdotal story to illustrate
this lesson. My entire 2018 was filled with doubt. I doubted my abilities, my
discernment, my worthiness, my future. <strong><em>You name it, I questioned it.</em></strong> </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">And I’d love to say I’ve overcome doubt, but that would be a
lie. It creeps in still, especially when I feel deficient, when God seems
silent or when the task seems monumental. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The rainbow in the storm? Everytime my doubt has emerged,
God’s grace has been sufficient and He' given me the measure of faith I need
to overcome every obstacle. So as long as God is still God, I will always win
the battle against doubt, and for that I’m grateful.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;">You have plans, but
God’s plans are always better.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">In my internship struggles, I went from I want to make XX an
hour to I’ll take $8.56 Lord, just give me a job. I went from I want to work part
time to I’ll work any shift except Sunday.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I was willing to settle because my plans changed as my
circumstances did. But God’s plan are consistent. So when I was ready to
settle, He never did.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I ended getting hired in my current position, and I honestly feel underqualified. I’m grateful for God’s faithfulness, and I’m glad my
plans didn’t work out.</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">For some of you, 2018 was the hell year, and for others, a season
of manifestation. I pray that in 2019, you remember the lessons that God taught
you, you grow better, not bitter and you advance towards His plans for your
life.</span></span><br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>Remember that the fact that you’re still here means God’s
not done with you yet.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">All my love, </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Obioma</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot" , serif; margin: 0px;"><b style="font-weight: 700;">Announcements</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot" , serif; margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "lora" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><br /></div>
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<ul style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 400 16px/24px "times new roman"; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 40px 0px 22.4px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><b style="font-weight: 700;"><i style="font-weight: 700;">IF you haven't already, follow my passion project <a href="http://instagram.com/biblesplusbrunch" style="color: #b38870; outline: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: 0.2s;">@biblesplusbrunch</a> on Instagram. </i></b>BiblesplusBrunch is an intimate gathering of intentional women. The goal is to feed your soul + body. Over brunch we discuss what God has called you to do it, and equip each other with the resources to achieve and live sold out lives for Jesus. </li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 4px; padding: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">Guess What??! BiblesplusBrunch is hosting it's first conference<strong><span style="color: purple;"> #SheACTS2019</span></strong>: A gathering of intentional women. Karolyne Roberts will be our special guest. There will be prophetic worship, an amazing word and anointed atmosphere. Get your ticket <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sheacts-2019-tickets-52666758693">Here</a> before they run out. You won't want to miss this.</li>
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Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-89726707448178241312018-11-19T08:49:00.000-08:002018-11-19T08:49:41.991-08:00Can I be a ‘real’ Christian and work a 9-5?
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJEMVV7GYM0OvT_IuT-kfxpukJmN-qW89ugQyWoDD9RfxIyKB3QkYLdiYqcKVwiGZbpHXbZO5lVlur-lzz46folKX7X51mCwhwRtw9H4fPMgSchvlpHNpoSAgEv7lE1CHu4wW9cgmDBlK/s1600/Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJEMVV7GYM0OvT_IuT-kfxpukJmN-qW89ugQyWoDD9RfxIyKB3QkYLdiYqcKVwiGZbpHXbZO5lVlur-lzz46folKX7X51mCwhwRtw9H4fPMgSchvlpHNpoSAgEv7lE1CHu4wW9cgmDBlK/s320/Blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">More and more I’ve been talking to women who are pursing
God, but wonder what it means for their career and their current jobs. I talked to a dear friend of mine and she shared that she’s in
a season where God is challenging her, she’s hungering for the Word, but she
doesn’t know what her purpose in corporate America is. She wondered if God
could really use her in the present season to reach the lives of others. She
wondered if working a 9-5 meant that she wasn’t living her life completely submitted
to the will of God. We talked about the fact that bills still need to be
paid, and that she actually enjoyed her job. Ultimately I encouraged
her that she was right where God intended her to be, and that’s what I want to
encourage you with!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b><i>Let’s start with this fact:</i></b> <u>Everyone is not called to be on the
pulpit. </u>As social media pastors and the new generation of ministers rise up, it’s
easy to believe that because you have an Instagram and love Jesus, that God’s
will is for you to be a social media pastor as well.</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Let’s address that misconception.</b></span></div>
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<h4 style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
Matthew 28:19</h4>
<h4 style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,</span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;"><span id="en-NIV-24216" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px;">20 </span></span></span><span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">and teaching
them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always,
to the very end of the age.”</span></span> NIV</h4>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Matthew
28:19 is called the great commission because it’s what the word of God tasks us
to do. We are to make disciples of ALL nations. But notice that verse doesn’t
say anything about your profession.</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">It
doesn’t say you have to be a Pastor, Sunday School teacher,<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>or Professional Evangelist. It simply says ‘make
disciples’ and teach them to obey everything I’ve commanded you.’</span></div>
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<h3 style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Here’s
the truth saints, disciples can be made ANYWHERE, and even more….God needs
people in every sphere of influence so the Gospel can spread everywhere.</span></h3>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">God
gives favor in corperate settings and in the religious world. Jesus gives favor in
politics and with nonprofits. God is not limited to the four walls of the church
and neither is his commandment to make disciples.</span></div>
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<h3 style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Sis,
God needs you to work a 9-5 because the people at your job desperately need an
example of Jesus.</span></h3>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Sis,
God needs you in politics and law because the policies of our government
desperately need restructuring.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Christians
should be in every sector of the world because we are called to lead and be examples
in every sector of the world. Matthew 5:16 says </span><b><sup><span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">16 </span></sup></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your
good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.</span>”</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Note
that the verse doesn’t say ‘before some men’. That’s a hint to you and me that
the gospel is for everybody, and for every business sector.</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">So the
moral of the story my dear friend is that you’re still getting this Christian
thing right if you’re working a corporate job, you can still be a minister of
the Gospel because your life is the Gospel.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Strive
to be the example of righteousness where you’re at because it draws men unto
your savior JESUS. And trust me, they need it.</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Jesus
& I love yall,</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 10.66px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">Obioma</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;">-------------------</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "&quot",serif; margin: 0px;"><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<b style="font-weight: 700;">Announcements</b></div>
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<ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 22.4px; padding-right: 40px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;"><b style="font-weight: 700;"><i style="font-weight: 700;">IF you haven't already, follow my passion project <a href="http://instagram.com/biblesplusbrunch" style="color: #b38870; max-width: calc(700px); outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition-delay: 0s; transition-duration: 0.2s; transition-property: all; transition-timing-function: cubic-bezier(0.25, 0.1, 0.25, 1);">@biblesplusbrunch</a> on Instagram. </i></b>BiblesplusBrunch is an intimate gathering of intentional women. The goal is to feed your soul and body. Over brunch we discuss what God has called you to do it, and equip each other with the resources to achieve and live sold out lives for Jesus. There's a big announcement coming:<b> November 23rd</b>! Make sure you're following for the update.</li>
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<ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 25.6px; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 22.4px; padding-right: 40px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">My latest <b>IGTV </b>video series is up. <u><b>I'm talking about Goal setting</b></u> , and how to make sure you accomplish your God given purpose. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/BqIAsFygLSU/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=1tru3ftzlox3a">Watch it here!</a> </li>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-31292676137955544332018-05-21T19:50:00.004-07:002018-05-21T19:58:11.815-07:00I'm mad at God, now what?<div>
<br /></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Yea, you read the title right.</i></b><br />
I was mad at God. To be honest, I'm still not completely over what caused me to be upset in the first place.<br />
Let me back up...<br />
<br />
So I'm finishing up my first year of my masters program.<br />
I turned 25, God literally shown down his face upon me...but wait, a life hurdle rears its ugly head.<br />
I'm supposed to get an internship over the summer, mind you, I started looking for this internship in 2017 and was convinced I'd be working for Google (That's a long story).<br />
Fast forward several months later, no internship, no job, and wondering what my future is supposed to look like.<br />
<br />
In between I traveled to 4 different countries, if you count Puerto Rico(yes, I know it's a territory)<br />
I took amazing pictures, had once in a life time encounters and was blessed to share it with people I genuinely care about.<br />
<br />
So why are you mad at God, Obioma?<br />
<i>That's the appropriate question at this time.</i><br />
<i></i><br />
<h4>
Because I've been praying for somethings.</h4>
<h4>
And you know what?</h4>
<h4>
<u>I haven't gotten them.</u></h4>
<h4>
In the process of praying, I don't feel like I hear God.</h4>
<h4>
I don't feel like I feel God and I'm frustrated about that.</h4>
<h4>
Did I mention that prior to ignoring me, God gave me specific tasks that required provision that I wasn't seeing?</h4>
<br />
So, I was mad at God. The anger started small at first. <i><b>I'm praying, but my prayers were one track minded and usually selfish. I'm believing and believing, because God has never failed me before. But I'm not seeing evidence of the belief this time.</b></i><br />
As rejection letter after rejection letter poured in...the anger grew.<br />
<br />
GOD, you love me, I feel I've been doing what I'm supposed to do...why are you not coming through for me?<br />
So as I asked this question what seemed liked countless times, the anger ballooned. It came to the point where prayer was a chore, but I obeyed begrudgingly, not out of delight, but out of mandate. My worship was lackluster.<br />
<br />
In the process, one thing I couldn't fix my mouth to do was deny the goodness of God, or his faithfulness.<br />
BUT, I was hurt, hurt that He wasn't coming through, but worst...that He seemed to be ignoring me.<br />
<br />
This is where I offer a picture perfect solution and scriptures that you can reference and be encouraged, but truly, it's not that easy.<br />
<br />
<b>WHEN, we go through times like this, and it's a matter of when, not IF: This is God's way of testing our faithfulness, our belief and our head knowledge of his sovereignty. </b><br />
I don't doubt that with a snap of his heavenly fingers, all my problems would be solved, but the part I'm dealing with is how faithful am I to God, and to his vision for my life.<br />
My faith, YOUR faith will get tested, time and time again, and even though we know that our God is good, do we really believe that.<br />
<br />
Will you keep serving God not just when He says No, but when he says 'Not right now'<br />
Because it's not God's 'Nos' that hurt the most, it's his wait.<br />
Because while you're waiting, you're in pain, and you're travailing, you're hanging on to the last thing He did.<br />
If I can paint a picture: you're teetering on the edge of a cliff blindfolded. You don't know whether to jump or not because you don't know if the ground beneath you is safe, the wind is blowing and with each blow you're forced to keep your balance on the edge. The whole time, you're asking God what do I do, and it seems like all he can say is 'Not yet', but you're not sure how much longer you can keep fighting the wind.<br />
<br />
What if I told you God never asked you to fight the wind? What if I told you His wait, really does mean WAIT, and while you're waiting, make sure you have on His full armor.<br />
<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Ephesians 6:13-18</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span class="text Eph-6-13" id="en-NIV-29351" style="box-sizing: border-box;"> 13.Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.</span> <span class="text Eph-6-14" id="en-NIV-29352" style="box-sizing: border-box;">14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,</span> <span class="text Eph-6-15" id="en-NIV-29353" style="box-sizing: border-box;">15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.</span> <span class="text Eph-6-16" id="en-NIV-29354" style="box-sizing: border-box;">16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.</span> <span class="text Eph-6-17" id="en-NIV-29355" style="box-sizing: border-box;">17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.</span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span class="text Eph-6-18" id="en-NIV-29356" style="box-sizing: border-box;">18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.</span> </span></div>
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When we really take the time to dissect Ephesians 6, we realized that in the waiting process, God gives us everything we need to bear the winds. To stand firm, we need the Belt of Truth (which is a reminder of all that God is, and all he can do, and has done.) We need the Breastplate of Righteousness, which encourages us to continue to do good and not grow weary in our well doing. We need the shoes of peace because when the enemy attempts to target our minds, we confidently can stand in the peace that surpasses all understanding.</div>
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Our shield of faith is the reminder that God is faithful, no matter the nasty schemes of the enemy against the reputation of our Savior. Our salvation is where it all starts, and the word of God, the bible is how we counterattack. </div>
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The most important thing, in all this: Prayer!</div>
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Trust me, God knew I was angry with him, He just wanted me to admit it. Use these testing time to run to God and not away from him. Tell him your frustrations, the battle, the fear. And when He says wait...trust that too.</div>
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My prayer is that if you're ever mad at God, you take the time to stop, and bask in his sovereign goodness. Realize that all things have a purpose in the hand of God. And honestly, <b>how can you stay angry at the one who gave it all for you?</b></div>
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<b></b><b></b><br /></div>
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All my love,</div>
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Obioma</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Westminster Palace, with my usual face. London was interesting to say the least.</td></tr>
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<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-5231945679233216752018-04-17T15:42:00.001-07:002018-04-17T15:42:06.599-07:00What's the Pressure?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJRhfjKPqqUdDMZ3T217YR_uoyD6zjaRM7FMA6xtfFKKwtCPp1FuPZUM-C5r5MOE7VMmOpZUqFLNVFP7vnjZWy_mC9X2DdH5RqACHn_QGxXYBRl4An7pxNmnV5q9DBzEsugmTiCFiRwqm/s1600/istock-532327308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="620" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJRhfjKPqqUdDMZ3T217YR_uoyD6zjaRM7FMA6xtfFKKwtCPp1FuPZUM-C5r5MOE7VMmOpZUqFLNVFP7vnjZWy_mC9X2DdH5RqACHn_QGxXYBRl4An7pxNmnV5q9DBzEsugmTiCFiRwqm/s320/istock-532327308.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I was talking to one of my girlfriends, and the conversation was about pressure. I spoke about this self-imposed pressure to achieve. Although I was getting my masters. I still felt behind. I felt like there was something more I could be doing, my accomplishments paled in comparison to my desires. She felt like a disappointment because she was pursing a degree that she didn't originally plan to pursue. She felt like she'd given up on her hard science degree in favor of an 'easier' choice...even though she knew God was calling her to make the change.<br />
<br />
Fast forward months later, and I'm scratching my head asking "What's the pressure?"<br />
I'm genuinely at a place where I see God manifesting in the big and small areas of my life, and I'm wondering why I ever felt so much pressure.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Why was I worried that things would never happen?</i></b><br />
<b><i>Why was I scared of a future that God promised was assured.</i></b><br />
<b><i>Why was I so envious of other people and their positions in life?</i></b><br />
<b></b><i></i><br />
I feel like many of us are constantly dealing with so much pressure, from every side. We face this constant pressing by external and internal forces. I liken the feeling to a balloon that's being blown up and at the same time, someone is squeezing it as hard as possible.<br />
<br />
Heather Lindsey wrote a book called the Pressure Trap, and you can find the preorder on her site at Heatherllindsey.com. I don't think it's a coincidence that what's burdened my spirit, would burden hers enough to inspire a whole book.<br />
<br />
The point is, we keep setting standards or allowing others to set standards for ourselves that God never gave us. This causes us to be unhappy with where we are. Because we're discontent, we look at others life and accomplishments and are envious. Our envy drives us to pressure our self and set more standards in our life that were meant never for us. Then the cycle continues.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="passage-display-bcv" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-right: 6px;">Isaiah 64:8</span> <span class="passage-display-version" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-weight: 500;">The Voice (VOICE)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<sup class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-weight: 700; left: -44px; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></sup></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">8 </span><br />
</span><div class="line" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding-left: 36.4px; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="text Isa-64-8" id="en-VOICE-18265" style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Still, Eternal One, You are our Father.</span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><span class="indent-1" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: monospace; line-height: 0px;"> </span><span class="text Isa-64-8" style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">We are just clay, and You are the potter.</span></span><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><span class="text Isa-64-8" style="box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">We are the product of Your creative action, shaped and formed into something of worth.</span></span></div>
<b></b><span class="text Isa-64-8" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-family: "quot"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; position: relative; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></span>
We break the cycle by first realizing, that we are the product of God's creativity. Sometimes the pressures in life, both self & other serve the purpose of molding us into the design God intends. So yes, pressure is not always a bad thing.<br />
<br />
The knowledge that we are the work of God also allows us to <b><i>Breathe</i></b> because we know something greater than us is in control. And at the bottom of it, isn't that what pressure is all about?<br />
Pressure boils downs to the fear of failing to meet set standards. If we realize we aren't the boss of us, then we realize that only God can help us meet those standards.<br />
<br />
<h3>
2Timothy 2:20-21 (the Voice)<span class="text 2Tim-2-20" id="en-VOICE-28966" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">20 Look, in the mansions of the rich and powerful you will find everything from silver and gold serving bowls to wooden containers and clay jars; some are used for special occasions—where honor is important—others are used for more mundane tasks. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span class="text 2Tim-2-21" id="en-VOICE-28967" style="background-color: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">21 So tell them, if they will clean up their lives and purify themselves from dishonorable teachings that lead people astray, then they can become honorable vessels, consecrated and useful to the Master, made ready for every good work He has in store</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes the point of pressure is to turn us from vessels of dishonor to vessels of honor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hear me out!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You can judge a man, or a woman by how they handle stress and the stresses of life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica";">While everyone else caves in to the pressure to be 'successful' a certain way, or the pressure to look, dress and act a certain way...<b><i>will you?</i></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or will you purify yourself <u>by the word</u>, <b>through the Holy Spirit </b>and allow God to take away that pressure and simply provide direction?</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
All my love, </div>
<div>
Obioma</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Announcements</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><b><i>IF you haven't already, follow my passion project <a href="http://instagram.com/biblesplusbrunch">@biblesplusbrunch</a> on Instagram. </i></b>BiblesplusBrunch is an intimate opportunity to feed your soul and body. Over brunch we discuss what God has called you to do it, and equip each other with the resources to achieve and live intentionally. Make sure you follow us for the next Brunch date!</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>BiblesPlusBrunch launching a new IGlive series: <b>#CandidChats</b> featuring myself (<a href="http://instagram.com/simplyobioma">@simplyobioma</a>) and my good friend: <a href="http://instagram.com/mayj_soreal">@Mayaj_soreal</a> (instagram). We will be discussing different topics that affect both believers and non believers alike. The point is to start <b>real </b>conversations that hopefully inspire <b>real</b> thought and <b>real </b>change!</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>I've been super diligent about adding new content to my <b>YouTube chanel</b>, from inspirational videos, to vlogs check it out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGJU9rnt72rNxWkBoAmawkg">here</a>!</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica";"><br /></span></b>
Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-49748313647355270502018-02-06T07:01:00.000-08:002018-02-06T07:04:03.957-08:005 Go to Tips for Shopping on the LowI am the biggest believer in the <b><span style="color: #990000;">FACT</span></b> that looking expensive doesn't have to be expensive.<br />
My bestie always says that they created 9.99 for me. And to be honest, she's right. If something is under 9.99, I about 75% more likely to buy it than not.<br />
I'm not ashamed.<br />
<b><i>Why am I paying ridiculous prices for clothes or items that I most likely won't wear more than twice a year.</i></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000;">Below are my 5 go to tips for dressing fashionably and shopping wisely.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<h3>
1. Shop Second hand</h3>
Yes, I know. There's such a stigma about thrift stores and second hand clothes. I'll start by saying all thrift stores aren't created equal. But, if you have the opportunity to shop second hand, then I highly recommend it. Second hand stores typically have high quality standards and low prices. Stores like Platos Closet are intentional about catering to trendy, fashion forward consumers. Platos prices are typically more reasonable than spending $$$ on brand new clothes that may not be worth the mark up.<br />
Goodwill is also a very dope place for rare finds, especially now that vintage is making a reappearance.<br />
Moral of the story: Someone else's 'don't like' can be your 'feel inlove'. There's no reason you should be embarrassed, or hesitant about buying or wearing quality second hand.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
2. ROSS, TJMAXX, MARSHALLS are your best friends</h3>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV1DNWlYaBEa-gCp_CQwcLcJTNmnKyzX0BuyltVoHTny0wgDTiIrinznPPet5QbP5ug865ktf_XjS31Q_8C9YQlcxIQiyEQS7GBn6id7Y-UCMqfSJIi_8BixGc74m3biiLJD7rEWsOvffc/s1600/IMG_8051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; clear: right; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV1DNWlYaBEa-gCp_CQwcLcJTNmnKyzX0BuyltVoHTny0wgDTiIrinznPPet5QbP5ug865ktf_XjS31Q_8C9YQlcxIQiyEQS7GBn6id7Y-UCMqfSJIi_8BixGc74m3biiLJD7rEWsOvffc/s320/IMG_8051.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betsy Johnson shoes, $9.99 @ Ross</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you're still scared to try second hand, that's okay (no judgement zone!) I recommend you hit up the next best thing: low price department stores. Stores like Ross, TJMAXX , Marshalls offer quality, name brand items at prices less than the department store. Now that I'm fully adulting, I wish I'd known about these stores in my college years. I buy all my cute home décor, journals, occasional dresses and skin care at places like ROSS. My favorite thing about low price department stores is the ability to buy name brand, new at cheaper prices.<br />
<h3>
<i><br /></i></h3>
<h3>
3. Shop clearance & outlets</h3>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">You're still too boujie for low price department stores?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
Fine Sis, at least shop clearance first. If you're going to go to a mall, and walk into a store, head straight to the clearance section.<b><i> DO not pass GO, DO NOT collect $200 .</i></b><u> It can be work</u>, but sifting through clearance can also be really rewarding especially when the seasons are changing and stores just want to get rid of inventory. I typically buy summer clothes during winter and winter during summer. Outlets are great for designer items at reduced prices.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcoI9Qmlx2OojuYGZg4rv2NAR9YkSh0VEFqok1zEjLg8rQtBD1jeKvDwiFSmIE99itrGR29tuStA_c3Z4-IzL09LnwcxE0phxaBlENGgnM7bM0KoXMPo89KRXfBodkG-1-Eo_DCnAh7XM/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1082" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcoI9Qmlx2OojuYGZg4rv2NAR9YkSh0VEFqok1zEjLg8rQtBD1jeKvDwiFSmIE99itrGR29tuStA_c3Z4-IzL09LnwcxE0phxaBlENGgnM7bM0KoXMPo89KRXfBodkG-1-Eo_DCnAh7XM/s320/6.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pants from Ross, shoes from Charlotte Russe outlet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
4. Price compare on AMAZON</h3>
<br />
I promise you, there's a high probability that cute blazer you want is listed on amazon for a cheaper price. <span style="font-size: large;">When in doubt, Amazon it out! That is all.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
5. Check out apps like Offerup & Poshmark</h3>
<br />
I have never personally bought things from either app, but I do have them both on my phone(I'm plotting). Offerup features general items being sold by locals. Poshmark focuses on clothes and accessories being sold nationally. I've heard awesome things about both. I had a friend sell her Louis Vuitton purse on Poshmark with success. I was shopping for a pre-owned Chanel bag the other day, and prices started at $700. Poshmark also offers authentication for big ticket name brand items for free!<br />
<br />
I hope the tips are useful! As much as I like looking good like the next person, I also understand that being a good steward of my God given finances is necessary. <b><u>Spending a ridiculous amount of money to 'look good' is not a requirement. </u></b>If you have the cash, then more power to you. BUT you don't have to sacrifice style for savings.<br />
<br />
At the end of the day, you define what you wear, it doesn't define you!<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
ObiomaObiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-82475509780091182882017-12-15T08:01:00.001-08:002017-12-15T08:04:48.718-08:00Brokeness - Rock your bandages<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I struggle with control. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I love to be in charge of the situations in my life. I like
being able to command my course. To be honest, following Jesus was one of the
hardest things I’ve ever done. Not because I had to give up sin, but because I couldn’t
steer my own ship anymore. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Prior to Christ, I always dictated how my life went. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>I was able to plan and see the fruit of those plans,
Then I chose salvation, and my life took a turn for the unpredictable. I had to
trust an invisible God to direct me towards a path I’d never been down. I had
to trust He knew where He was going, even when I couldn’t see Him.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i>One of the consequences of letting Christ dictate my life
was allowing Him to use my brokenness. My brokenness being the areas in life I
don’t always get right. The areas in life that are ugly, sad, mean, unqualified,
the areas I’d rather allude to, but never share.</i> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sometimes I look at what God has promised me, and it
overwhelms me. The truth is I’ll never qualify for the calling Christ mandated
over my life. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span><b>And as much as I try, I’ll
never be able to fix my brokenness the way He can.</b></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">While I love to brag about what God has done for me, I don’t
think I realize how self-conscious I still am about what God is doing in me. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The beautiful thing about Jesus is that He uses our present
wounds and the scars and scabs from our past regrets. Human nature tells you
that <i><b>you</b></i> have to be good enough for the calling, but salvation tells us that
the <u><i><b>cross</b></i> makes you good enough for the calling</u>.</span></div>
<br />
<h4 style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
We hear often that God gets the glory from our testimonies,
but how much do we really believe it?</h4>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">How can I trust God with the areas of my life that I still
haven’t addressed?<i> How can I trust God with a testimony that I’m not sure if I’ve
even triumphed?</i></span></div>
<br />
<h3 style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; text-align: center;">
<span style="margin: 0px;">Psalms
147:3 He heals the brokenhearted</span><br />
<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="margin: 0px;">and
bandages their wounds.</span></h3>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">That means that not only does God heal your present hurts,
he treats the wounds from your past afflictions. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>He knows everything about you, the areas you’re
great in and the ones where you really suck. He knows hard you’ve been trying
at this Christian thing…and he also knows how close you are to giving up. He
knows what no one else knows, and guess what? He not only still loves you, but
wants to heal you.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I wondered why Psalms 147:3 chooses to say ’bandages’. Why
that word? Why not fix, or mend?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Well, a bandage is actually the best treatment for a wound. Some
people argue that exposing a cut to air spends up its healing time, science
says that’s a falsehood. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">It’s the bandage on a cut that provides the perfect environment
of isolation to encourage new cell generation and promotes faster healing
without the visible scars.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">So God not only wants to fix us, but he wants to fix us in
the best possible way. <i>God’s desire isn’t to expose the parts of you that are
broken, otherwise, he wouldn’t have bandaged them.</i> His heart towards you is to
use those bandages to encourage others to get their healing. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But we still worry that people will say when they see our
bandages.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">My advice? Rock your messed up nature, <b>don’t just brag about
what God did, show what God is doing.</b> Wear your bandages with honor because the
greatest physician is on your case. The best doctor in the world is working it
out for you. You’re the poster child of what real medicine can do.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Imagine all the people who need the cure you have, but don’t
know where to get it because you’re still hiding your wounds.</span></div>
<br />
<h3 style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; text-align: center;">
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for
my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more
gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.</h3>
all my love,<br />
Obioma<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXhJDGQuFOLHXIRwWRDAFXSTR7aqfHJTFqZghuQJSHLtYILlZWXsWNS2eND7-DRSm5RM2bxl6o4TMeHXDXzWnPvbLNgzna_pTRA2Od_iCpXY6WS_xgtouGMtPQjnPKwFIF19NpttbNADU/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXhJDGQuFOLHXIRwWRDAFXSTR7aqfHJTFqZghuQJSHLtYILlZWXsWNS2eND7-DRSm5RM2bxl6o4TMeHXDXzWnPvbLNgzna_pTRA2Od_iCpXY6WS_xgtouGMtPQjnPKwFIF19NpttbNADU/s320/8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So excited to be the face of one of my friend's amazing line: Virtuous woman. Honestly, Won't He Do it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-61778736462360411392017-11-03T12:02:00.001-07:002017-11-03T12:06:40.189-07:00The Process and The Destination<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyohR_SCWvxJYIB-CLK_cOtFFD1kw411we3ckTF5rqsdyQniNLpJ9G8h-cY55vMInIWxBo8Mf5Lzqre2ECotXdDy3PGroiHYgbOORnCXwJXy3HynOm_hQeYrDCsM_5dWJYgwIurGOAKG0/s1600/ontheroad-696x392.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="696" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyohR_SCWvxJYIB-CLK_cOtFFD1kw411we3ckTF5rqsdyQniNLpJ9G8h-cY55vMInIWxBo8Mf5Lzqre2ECotXdDy3PGroiHYgbOORnCXwJXy3HynOm_hQeYrDCsM_5dWJYgwIurGOAKG0/s400/ontheroad-696x392.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Let’s talk about goal setting.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
So you have something you want to do. What’s the normal human inclination?<br />
If you have a persistent internal drive to achieve a goal then you are focused. You’re focused on achieving whatever your objective is and being successful. If you are like me then you’re probably a little lazier. You are focused but maybe you’re not putting in as much work. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by the destination or the journey to get to the destination.<br />
What if I told you that God’s destination differs from yours? Can I challenge your thinking when it comes to the <em>end goal</em>?<br />
What if I told you that your end goal, whether it be losing weight, starting in ministry, or getting A’s was not God’s end goal?<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Work with me here, I have a point.</i></b><br />
<blockquote>
<h2>
<span style="color: #e69138;">Your progress is not indicated by the destination, but your application in the process.</span></h2>
</blockquote>
We usually set goals that are destinations or arrival points. We’ve trained ourselves to choose measurable targets so that when we accomplish our goals, there’s a clear indication. For example, if you notice that you have lost 5 pounds on a weight scale then there’s a clear indication that you met your goal to lose weight. It makes sense.<br />
But that’s not how God thinks.<br />
God’s end goal for us is to establish a process.<br />
<blockquote class="td_pull_quote td_pull_right">
<h2>
<span style="color: orange;">He wants to develop self-discipline, spiritual maturity and a reverence for His temple. That’s His ultimate goal for you. You can’t measure those things on a scale.</span></h2>
</blockquote>
Your progress is not indicated by the destination, but your application in the process. While you look at the end goal of losing weight as a destination, God looks at the work it took for you to get there. He wants to develop self-discipline, spiritual maturity and a reverence for His temple. That’s His ultimate goal for you. You can’t measure those things on a scale.<br />
Yes, we need to see the tangible results of our actions, but we also need to have conversations on the <em>process</em> because that is how our Heavenly Father evaluates our progress.<br />
Many have heard the story of Joseph, Jacob’s son. He was the one with the multicolor coat.<br />
Joseph is a story about process, not destination.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Read the rest on <a href="http://orlandochristianvoice.com/the-process-and-the-destination/">Orlandochristianvoice.com</a></h4>
Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-80776591517018982412017-10-17T15:50:00.003-07:002017-10-17T15:51:28.266-07:00New Project Announcment!!Hi Everyone. <b><i>I'm so excited to announce a new collaboration</i></b> with some of my sisters in Christ: Gabby and Chaun'cey.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
TrillTrinityTV is live!!</h2>
<b><br /></b>
In the show we'll explore relevant and controversial topics from the Christian perspective. It's about time believers joined the conversation.<br />
<br />
Watch the first episode below, subscribe and always feel free to join the conversation.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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All my love,<br />
ObiomaObiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-12948394303837570782017-09-26T15:45:00.001-07:002017-09-26T15:46:59.904-07:00What to do when you don't know what to do<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I cried this morning.<br />
I'm sure you're thinking...strange Obioma, why are you crying.<br />
<br />
As I drove to school, I caught up on news about the victims of hurricane Marie, over 3 million people without power. Food is running out, clean water is running out, the temperatures are stifling and tropical and millions languish without A.C.<br />
As a Floridian, it's easy to think about someone else's tropical storm and be desensitized, but this news truly broke me.<br />
<br />
All I could think was "Oh, God" as I wept quietly while driving.<br />
<br />
I didn't dare ask 'Why God' because I've learned that asking God why is not a task for the faint of heart. Job tried it, and was essentially told by the creator that he was too human to understand. The Lord beautifully sums it up by inquiring of the mortal Job<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<h2>
"Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Job 38:4<span class="p"></span></h2>
</blockquote>
<b><br /></b>
There are some things I whole heartedly believe God doesn't owe us an answer for: Death, natural disaster, human failure to name a few.<br />
<br />
Sometimes if we've been in church long enough, we have an understanding that sin is the reason, maybe we quote the famous scripture, <b>Matthew 5:45</b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;"><sup class="versenum">45 </sup>That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.</span></blockquote>
</div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
I<span class="text Matt-5-45">t's reassuring to know that bad and good things happen to everyone, whether or not they follow God</span><span class="text Matt-5-45">.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">Ultimately , even with all the church knowledge we have, its not comforting when you imagine millions of people suffering against their will. It doesn't take away the sting of the natural storms, or the storms of life.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">So I didn't ask God why.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">I asked Him for help.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">Sometimes we get so caught up in the problem, we loose sight that we have The Solution</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">I'm a firm believer in the fact that there's no worst feeling that helplessness. Helplessness is powerlessness in it's ultimate form.</span></div>
<div>
It's the feeling that takes away all hope.</div>
<div>
It tells you that you have no hand in the situation, so why try.</div>
<div>
Helplessness leaves you feeling sorry for yourself</div>
<div>
It will have you throwing a pity party of one while life's worries silently suffocate you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Helplessness is far from fun.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I know from whom my help comes from.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">My help comes from the Lord, the maker of Heaven and Earth <b>psalms 121:2</b></span></blockquote>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
Sometimes all you can do is ask God for help and wait for him to do what he does best: save. So while in my humanity I can't think of how we can immediately save 3 million people in Puerto Rico, I know that my prayers are moving of the hand of the one who can.</div>
<div>
I do my part by lifting my voice to heaven, and donating where I can, then I trust God to do the rest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you're loosing hope, or afraid to ask God why, then as Him for Help.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. <b>Psalms 46:1</b></span></blockquote>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">All my love,</span></div>
<div>
<span class="text Matt-5-45">Obioma</span></div>
Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-52228105501072247362017-08-08T12:15:00.001-07:002017-08-08T12:15:33.657-07:00Let it burn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h3>
<br /></h3>
<h3>
Let it Burn...</h3>
<br />
No, not the Usher Song, but the fire of God inside you.<br />
<br />
As I was having my quiet time with the Lord, the Holy Spirit kept whispering the phrase to me. 'Let it burn Obioma, let it burn.'<br />
What do you think of when you see the word burn? Most of us think of fire, or a flame.<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;">To burn is defined as 'to flame or glow while consuming' </span>according to Google.<br />
<br />
I asked God what do you mean by burn, you want me to flame while consuming... That's rather abstract Lord. <i>How many of you know God speaks in abstract terms sometimes and its up to us to pray for the revelation to understand?</i> So I pulled out my bible concordance and looked up all the scriptural references to burn, clarity began. Then I looked up fire, the lightbulb was officially lit.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<i>Hebrews 12:29</i> For our God is a consuming fire.</h4>
<b><br /></b>
How often do we really mediate on that scripture, or that concept. The Lord we serve is described in our human words as a <span style="font-size: large;">fire</span>, one that engulfs and uses everything around. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>God's fire is inside of each of us and he wants to use us.</b><br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<br /></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
We read <i>Matthew 5:16</i> In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.</h4>
<br />
We've created Christian clichés around this verse. We encourage each other to be a light and to shine bright, <i>but do we really understand the depth of what God is asking of us?</i> <b>Roman's 12:11</b> tells us there is a fire inside of us. That fire is the holy and living God and He is not simply satisfied with you exposing your flame for mere warmth.<br />
<br />
<h3>
God is a consuming fire...he wants to totally engulf, and use you and everyone who gets in contact with you for his glory. Fear confines your fire to a flame, one that burns when exposed. But faith, faith makes your flame a <u>consuming fire.</u></h3>
<u><br /></u>
Are you letting God use you? Or are you simply satisfied with being a candle flame, good for warmth but not destructive, not engulfing, not consuming.<br />
<br />
A relationship with Christ should radicalize your life. Every area of you should be consumed and engulfed by Him and Him alone. No longer should we compartmentalize our relationship with Christ to what is convenient. The truth is, if you claim to have the fire of God on the inside of you, He should be using you in everyway for his glory and for his glory alone.<br />
<br />
No, not everyone is called to formal ministry and often times we think that is the only way to be totally used by God. That's a lie. God created each of us with unique talents, gifting and desires because he wants to be glorified everywhere, not just confined to the four walls of the church.<br />
<br />
Ultimately the Lord wants you to: <b>Let it Burn.</b><br />
no excuses.<br />
<br />
all my love,<br />
Obioma<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XfhdKSok3bLoUz9DSnzTZc5vnuCTuxxaJBUIiKLmICJrZOs8gw04MBsRL4AQzicaVfOgkG3WV5TLGpLDhPpOTsCGbz83xbYubT539EI8ptmyt2fDH1F6tYgELYBkpYcKC5iPsSQGBBM9/s1600/IMG_1102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XfhdKSok3bLoUz9DSnzTZc5vnuCTuxxaJBUIiKLmICJrZOs8gw04MBsRL4AQzicaVfOgkG3WV5TLGpLDhPpOTsCGbz83xbYubT539EI8ptmyt2fDH1F6tYgELYBkpYcKC5iPsSQGBBM9/s1600/IMG_1102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XfhdKSok3bLoUz9DSnzTZc5vnuCTuxxaJBUIiKLmICJrZOs8gw04MBsRL4AQzicaVfOgkG3WV5TLGpLDhPpOTsCGbz83xbYubT539EI8ptmyt2fDH1F6tYgELYBkpYcKC5iPsSQGBBM9/s320/IMG_1102.JPG" width="320" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQW8-xbRK_K32UHaeWGeFSg45CCXOpNgvyvQ7orcQ9qFApaHTgP_VyahhCOtVAQ9q53JrFb0CVuNbV8C9FNeUt3V0vOL6NtYuwkiBKJP3za_7ICND7bT6yTRMPp2L5S54TOBBQQPqVOOWo/s1600/IMG_1093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQW8-xbRK_K32UHaeWGeFSg45CCXOpNgvyvQ7orcQ9qFApaHTgP_VyahhCOtVAQ9q53JrFb0CVuNbV8C9FNeUt3V0vOL6NtYuwkiBKJP3za_7ICND7bT6yTRMPp2L5S54TOBBQQPqVOOWo/s200/IMG_1093.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cota Missions 2017. Attempting to be used by God</td></tr>
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<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-86972402371477593732017-05-24T09:24:00.001-07:002017-05-24T09:25:04.456-07:00Love & settling..<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/jLdznhXYWy4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="320" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jLdznhXYWy4?feature=player_embedded" width="480"></iframe> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've always been passionate about love and expecting the best from God. My latest youtube video is all about why you can't afford to settle for less than God's best.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Watch. Subscribe. </b></i></div>
Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-77535376637224391242017-05-05T11:17:00.003-07:002017-05-05T11:18:24.160-07:00Everyone needs to go on a missions tripMy first missions trip was at the age of 15. I went to Hollywood, California. I went with my church at the time. The trip was less than $1000 dollars and it was a brand new experience for my teenage brain. As an immigrant, I knew that it was necessary to have a global gospel because my relationship with Christ is a direct result of a missionary.<br />
I also knew I wasn't called to be a full time missionary, <i><b>but </b></i>I wanted to spread the gospel even at that young age. So I ventured out with my church group, <u><b>we were a bunch of teenagers with Jesus on the brain, and a desire to make an impact in the world. </b></u><br />
<u><b>That's all God required</b></u>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just arrived in Haiti, May 2015 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Often times people think that they have to be at a perfect place in their lives before choosing to spread the gospel.<br />
Or they think that a missions trip has to be to to an international destination.<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;">Both of those assumptions are myths.</span><br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>James 1:27</b> says "<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><sup class="versenum">27 </sup>Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of <i>our</i> God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, <i>and</i> to keep oneself unstained by the world."</span></h3>
<h4>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">This verse in its simplest sense means that as long as our heart is to visit those in need, and we are actively pursuing purity, <u>We're doing it right. We're doing the whole missions trip thing right.</u></span></h4>
<u><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span></u>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">When I went to Hollywood, California I had just gotten in trouble with my mom for having my first boyfriend <i>(I know, the horror!)</i>. But I was also repentant for my actions and I believe the Lord honored that. </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">The coolest part of the whole experience was being in a live drama called 'Everything'. The drama essentially plays out the story of a woman who faces the demons of life: alcohol, lust, materialism and even suicide only to be rescued by Jesus in the end.</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">It was so moving to perform for people and to watch them wholeheartedly see the love God and ultimately for them to give their hearts to Christ.</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">I've been to Guatemala city, Guatemala Cape Haitian Haiti and Trinidad to date.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfp1V8q9l3dAo63YvkXHes9eoUACwhLe3tZVcb7HjDVqGxh5c0T0nVELrjICnSNlMLSmzK44SQkR8KRoXgQL_fk8shmtjDdytunWYXScdKPwb-umviIKRJLhfl0D-gFmbtShKOLEvp6Cm/s1600/IMG_6761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfp1V8q9l3dAo63YvkXHes9eoUACwhLe3tZVcb7HjDVqGxh5c0T0nVELrjICnSNlMLSmzK44SQkR8KRoXgQL_fk8shmtjDdytunWYXScdKPwb-umviIKRJLhfl0D-gFmbtShKOLEvp6Cm/s320/IMG_6761.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring ancient ruins in cape Haitian</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span>
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Each missions trip has been a different experience, in some God used me to talk to people and in others he used people to talk to me.</span></b><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">I was out of my element for a week at a time, and I had to be radical about my faith. It was freeing to not be worried about what anyone thought of me, because I had a singular mission: to spread the gospel.</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">I know that my missions trips have helped me become as passionate about God as I am today. I've had practice being unashamed about Christ. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctNocUS_OwWkcSxosdy54d6i004i9oiMA1wQOWyvXhrF2jGjnQQUQN18m1nqw8zZHX_GjipGi6gi3u9tHr3vJElwNa_4Yy5XDSP7y4Ytg-7B58WXCZf9w4aLimsdnufFONZMakIV44UiI/s1600/IMG_2253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctNocUS_OwWkcSxosdy54d6i004i9oiMA1wQOWyvXhrF2jGjnQQUQN18m1nqw8zZHX_GjipGi6gi3u9tHr3vJElwNa_4Yy5XDSP7y4Ytg-7B58WXCZf9w4aLimsdnufFONZMakIV44UiI/s320/IMG_2253.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Performing the 'Everything' Drama with my mission mates at a Trinidadian church</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">This year I'm excited to go to Cota, Colombia to preach the gospel and to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I'm excited to have a new appreciation for Christ and to meet people who will stir my faith.</span><br />
<br />
<h2>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">If you're debating taking a missions trip or questioning why you should/need to, consider this:</span></h2>
<h2>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">'Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God.' </span></h2>
<br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Your decision to spread the word of God is the direct seed to someone's faith.</span><br />
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">ultimately, it's not about YOU.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Remember that.</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Some practical ways to get involved in missions:</span></b><br />
<ol>
<li><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Check out your local church. Often churchs plan missions trips for different member groups (this usually depends on how large your church is)</span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"> </span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"> </span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"> </span></li>
<li><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Search around for organizations that host missions trips that have a gospel centered message. I hesitate to recommend any because I've never used one. But I've heard great things about organizations like 'Go to Nations'</span></li>
<li><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Plan your own trip (this is probably the most daunting option, but worth the effort if done right.) <i>If you're doing this, I'd love to help!</i></span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><i> </i></span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><i> </i></span></li>
<li><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Donate to a missionary, help someone else go if you can't. The beautiful thing about money is that it can go everywhere we can't!</span></li>
</ol>
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrU0fp5-rYaqwQ6efOWGQjZ5lEB4Ql-_WIQA_D8BQopR3k-bFroq70QgtgXoSuvkzpyEwHmZxt6nadJobIMBw89PLIOInC7zvByPYuTkGL3cF9iiMsF1OglxOlHTrdLsPR8x1u4U_jL39/s1600/static1.squarespace.com.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrU0fp5-rYaqwQ6efOWGQjZ5lEB4Ql-_WIQA_D8BQopR3k-bFroq70QgtgXoSuvkzpyEwHmZxt6nadJobIMBw89PLIOInC7zvByPYuTkGL3cF9iiMsF1OglxOlHTrdLsPR8x1u4U_jL39/s320/static1.squarespace.com.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">My trip to Cota , Colombia will be with the Church of God denomination. The trip is a week long. While there we'll be helping with local orphanages, doing manual and agricultural work and of course evangelizing. </span></b><br />
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span></b>
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<h3>
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">If you would like to contribute to the cause, feel free to donate to my trip <a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/commerce/donate?donatePageId=587f9e2c893fc0950e060634">Here</a></span></b></h3>
<h3>
<b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"> </span></b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Remember, ultimately, it's not about you, nor me. </span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">It's about someone who needs to hear the good news we have to share! </span></span><b><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span></b></h3>
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<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">All my love,</span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294">Obioma </span><span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"> </span><br />
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span>
<span class="text Jas-1-27" id="en-NASB-30294"><br /></span>
Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-50123056677115588922017-04-26T11:43:00.000-07:002017-04-27T08:45:37.422-07:00Six lessons I've learned during my two year teaching stint<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreFPLrav8bSrTE0ogCzrhwmzd4hfbos04j7od1JaWrSTemHFmnjTfg65GFsGJ3kwE_GrWOubmW618oQcZkrGobSPqjhu4Um1eA-HW0h7XC4ujnM_-XxgOXXdRs80SgCJ6VH6E2Rnxhn3V/s1600/20170404_120058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreFPLrav8bSrTE0ogCzrhwmzd4hfbos04j7od1JaWrSTemHFmnjTfg65GFsGJ3kwE_GrWOubmW618oQcZkrGobSPqjhu4Um1eA-HW0h7XC4ujnM_-XxgOXXdRs80SgCJ6VH6E2Rnxhn3V/s320/20170404_120058.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best part about teaching is the field trips. I got to pet a gator!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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1. <b>Patience, it’s more than a virtue; it’s a way of life. </b>The beautiful thing about children is that they will teach you about how much patience you don’t have. They will stretch you, just when you think you’ve mastered the ability to hold your own through everything…a child will throw up on his desk while another one is punching his friend. You, well you’re just patient through it all.<br />
<br />
2. <b>Children are smart, incredibly smart.</b> Children are so smart that when you ask them the meaning of life, they tell you “to make other people happy and to do kind things”<br />
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3. <b> Children learn more than you teach, they learn your behavior.</b> In the adult world we often say things like “do as I say, not as I do .” Well reality is that children do as you do. They watch everything, then they internalize it, then they mirror you. It definitely gives insight on how you actually act. I am constantly convicted to be the best example I can be and to live up to my christian ideals especially at work. <br />
<br />
4. <b>Teaching is more selfish than selfless</b>. I said this hesitantly, but it’s true. Often we picture a teacher as this individual who works tirelessly and selflessly to better the lives of his/her students. In some ways absolutely, but there’s a deep abiding need to feel fulfilled that can only be satisfied when you impart into others. <br />
<br />
5. <b>Children are rude, mean, annoying and incredibly sweet…all at the same time</b>. They can, and will tear down your self-esteem by telling you the whole truth and nothing but the truth…then they’ll call you a beautiful queen and fix it with a loving smile.<br />
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6. <b> You will grow to love people that have no relation to you, and can do nothing for you and <u>you will love it</u></b>. It’s parasitic the way children worm themselves into your heart. You’ll find yourself thinking about them in your off hours, buying them presents and gifts and praying for them. It’s a strange feeling to say the least and it reminds you how capable of love you actually are. It also reminds me of how God constantly showers his love on us, even when we do nothing to deserve it. From my most troublesome child to my perfect angels, my love is equal among all and that's just how Jesus views us.<br />
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<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-31005274667547591332017-04-25T09:18:00.000-07:002017-04-25T09:18:04.270-07:00What Faith actually looks like<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQgz5pVDayZN_aai5jZfWc9LxxW_uZq4olqR0l37UW4cfNCWqa34r4F7OahlH6ELSaQ_lX-_UrVb3iy75D453cJ6fymTypi-ojIhj_u3H6gcL-ye_Tp2UN9JAat01VJfLoruhITmdmgoT/s1600/faith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQgz5pVDayZN_aai5jZfWc9LxxW_uZq4olqR0l37UW4cfNCWqa34r4F7OahlH6ELSaQ_lX-_UrVb3iy75D453cJ6fymTypi-ojIhj_u3H6gcL-ye_Tp2UN9JAat01VJfLoruhITmdmgoT/s320/faith.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s this myth that once you trust God, everything just
happens.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always thought once
you prayed the prayer of faith and actively committed your will to the Lord’s, that’s
all supposed it would take. I believed like many Christians that God would
continue to grant me the desires of my prayers as long as I earnestly believed.
There’s even a beautiful scripture to support this thought: <b>Psalms 37:4-5</b></div>
<h4 class="MsoNormal">
<span class="btext1">“Take delight in the LORD, and he will
give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him
and he will do this”</span></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><b>Completely false.</b></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Not the scripture</i>, but <u>our thinking</u> surrounding the verse.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, yet unseen <i><b>Hebrews
11:1</b></i>. With that understanding, we know that our God while no respecter of
persons, rewards faith. Each man is granted a measure of faith <i><b>Romans 12:3</b></i>. Before Jesus and the process of believing in the Messiah,
God judged Abraham’s faith and because Abraham believed, he was saved. <i><b>Genesis
15:6.</b></i></div>
<h4 class="MsoNormal">
</h4>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4 class="MsoNormal">
What many of us fail to realize is that the path of faith is
not a straight line of believing and receiving. Faith is a long road of
constantly not seeing. Then in an instant, God, after seeing your sustained
belief through the tests and trials grants those desires which he has placed in
your heart in the process.</h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Does God always work this way? No. Sometimes prayers are
answered instantly, but for most of us, it’s the things we’ve prayed the
longest about that truly allow us to testify to the faithfulness of God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">
So what does the faith walk actually look like? </h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It looks like tears, and questions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It feels like fruitlessness and fear.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It hurts to believe while you seem to never receive.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It pulls you, and it stretches you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<b>
</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ultimately it asks you: do you believe God is truly who he
says he is and that God will do everything he says he will do.</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s why you doubt, and fight and question and cry and
complain. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because ultimately when God does finally come through for
you, and in spite of you, you can only give Him glory for it all. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I encourage
you to maintain your secret prayers, especially through the tests, continue to trust God and always go back
to <b>2</b> <b>Timothy 2:13.</b> </div>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">
“If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot
disown himself.”</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All my love,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Obioma </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jVCGefgHTAdPdapOJgWVBUrkWQahvaIDVztKWYVt5Em3Wt-okMVeMqzcnGIwX0yd5RRAuENFUFhsLSRRm4QVdm3LdJeMkXboc3EVdkrMimPjoqVRJ3rJN2LFeNH2hVtUmVlAFImdediZ/s1600/20170416_130306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jVCGefgHTAdPdapOJgWVBUrkWQahvaIDVztKWYVt5Em3Wt-okMVeMqzcnGIwX0yd5RRAuENFUFhsLSRRm4QVdm3LdJeMkXboc3EVdkrMimPjoqVRJ3rJN2LFeNH2hVtUmVlAFImdediZ/s320/20170416_130306.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post Resurrection Sunday pictures with one of my sisters in Christ</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-18521950972176912452017-02-27T20:05:00.001-08:002017-02-27T20:05:13.930-08:00Shop for a cause<br />
I'm a firm believer in the necessity of making a lasting contribution in the world. I believe that the Lord mandates us to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the nations, because of this world-wide missions is huge part of my heart. This year I have the opportunity to go to Cota, Colombia in July 2017 with a team of 49 other people.<br />
<b>Our goal is simple: to spread the love of God, while investing spiritually and tangibly in the individuals we encounter.</b><br />
I'll be traveling with the youth division of the Church of God. In Colombia, we will complete building projects, operate children's vacation bible school, minister to the youth at the boys/girls shelters and embark on street evangelism.<br />
<br />
The Approximate cost of the Trip is $1,000<br />
Consider donating at: https://www.yweaflorida.com/make-payments-1/<br />
<br />
<h2>
In the meantime, get ready to shop for a cause at The Spring Sale. All contributions will benefit world wide missions.</h2>
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More details to follow.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNgyTvX5zoqzuxYy5vztM7lA7WFIaTWPf9zMCUau5ctN5Baj-IkPahn6A7HOYwNdezhGHCUXvP6JcmTzLX-SjYrreJpuP4x8FqsNuB5d7YUgIyITKpo2kkkA_PQJyajlGr945cqqlrpW1/s1600/gabs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNNgyTvX5zoqzuxYy5vztM7lA7WFIaTWPf9zMCUau5ctN5Baj-IkPahn6A7HOYwNdezhGHCUXvP6JcmTzLX-SjYrreJpuP4x8FqsNuB5d7YUgIyITKpo2kkkA_PQJyajlGr945cqqlrpW1/s320/gabs1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
All my love,<br />
Obioma Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-60475328114322434582017-02-10T09:42:00.001-08:002017-02-10T09:42:35.824-08:00The cost to be the boss<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
<b>Boss: a person in charge of a worker or organization</b></div>
That the definition of the word boss according to google.com<br />
<br />
I think we all dream of being the one in charge of things at some point in our lives. Few people wake up saying "man, I can't wait to be a follower today." In our society, we value leaders, we admire those who have a following, we love 'role models' and we champion those in authority.<br />
Ultimately we value the individuals that are in charge more than those that are underneath their authority.<br />
<br />
We look at the CEO with awe, and the common worker with apathy.<br />
<br />
In the same breath, we turn around and admonish the same people we admire. It's often said the fall from the top is the hardest of all. When our role models let us down, we are more disappointed than if the average person makes the same mistake.<br />
why is that?<br />
Because there is a price that you pay to lead.<br />
<br />
I think of the bible when I truly dwell on the price of position. Like many of you, I want to be a woman of authority, I desire to be an influencer, not an influencee. But when the trials come, I'm the first one to question God "why?"<br />
<br />
What people don't tell you about good leadership is that it will cost you the most.<br />
<i><b>Matthew 20:26</b></i> phrases it best: <i>"Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,"</i><br />
<span class="p">God's call to leadership involves being the least of all in demeanor and in action. True leadership means <u>you do what others won't and you do so with the best attitude</u>. A leader that does not serve is a dictator without respect. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">This generation is enamored with the glory, but often fails to see the grace. The grace of God is necessary for any man or woman called into a place of authority, whether it be in the church or in the world.Many like the idea of being the boss, but few are willing to pay the price. Everyone is not called to predefined position of leadership. In saying this, I still believe that as Christians, we are supposed to be influncers of our generations, and we are called to serve and lead the world.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">So count the cost of the greatness, are you willing to be the one that does what others will not? Are you willing to humble your pride, and bite your tongue in certain situations? Are you okay with taking the blame even when it wasn't actually your fault? Most importantly are you willing to be the hands and feet of Jesus and seek the needs of others above yourself.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
<span class="p">I'm always humbled when I look at the life of the apostle Paul who is heralded as one of the greatest leaders of the the christian church. Paul endured jail, slander, torture all for the sake of the cross. How much must we endure in order to bear the burden of leadership?</span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">All my love,</span><br />
<span class="p">Obioma </span> <br />
<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-8104293165666727312017-01-05T18:32:00.001-08:002017-01-05T18:32:15.582-08:00Hair today, gone tomorrow<br />
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They say a woman who cuts her hair is ready to change her life.<br />
Do I agree? Absolutely.<br />
<br />
So I did the big chop again, accidentally.<br />
And by accidentally I mean... <br />
I didn't wake up on the last day of 2016 thinking, 'today I'll cut my hair.'<br />
<h3>
Every woman has an emotional relationship with her hair, whether it's hers or she bought it. </h3>
I'm convinced there are only two types of women, those who wear weave and those who don't. Excitement in my life has always come by virtue of whatever hairstyle is on my head.<br />
<br />
I remember being in 10th grade, 16, and totally unsure of myself while trying to grasp an understanding of the young woman I was becoming. So I cut off all the relaxed hair on my head, leaving about 4 inches of coily kinks. The emotions ranged from excitement to discomfort. I searched the internet to see other black girls like myself with natural hair. At that time, there were about two forums. There were no popular black youtubers talking about hair in 2009.<br />
There were no established hair care products except for carol's daughter.<br />
So I awkwardly wore my fro, then my braids consistently.<br />
<br />
I remember discovering that my hair determined who approached me and how they approached me.<br />
That discovery will forever play on the highlight reel of my life.<br />
If I wanted corporate attention, I knew that straight mid length would be my goto.<br />
If my desire was for strangers to refer to me as exotic, then I needed some dreadlocks aesthetic.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to 2016, and as I stood in front of my bathroom mirror and held three faux locs in my hand, the voice inside screamed "Do it!"<br />
I couldn't shake the feelings that it was now or never.<br />
<br />
The singular question I've received since trimming my tresses is: "Why?"<br />
<br />
The why is always silently followed by "why did cut off all your hair?" and audibly followed by "But I like it, it looks good."<br />
<br />
So while I typically try to encourage you to live your best life through biblical insight, I think sharing part of my life is necessary at times.<br />
<br />
<h4>
So Why, did I, Obioma cut my hair.</h4>
<br />
Because someone suggested it, and for whatever reason, I couldn't shake the thought.<br /><br />Because I truly wanted to take a leap of faith. I wanted to trust that something so permanent could be such a good thing.<br /><br />Because I wanted freedom, freedom from weave, freedom from the cultural standards of hair.<br /><br />Because I wanted to affirm my confidence. Was I really comfortable with everyone having access to my full face? Was I truly comfortable with people witnessing my every blemish and flaw? Was I actually confident in myself?<br /><br />Because I wanted change. Ultimately, I knew there was no turning back. <h3>
Cutting my hair is my victory cry for 2017. </h3>
<br />
Truly I'm excited. I know this year is going to be a year that is unforgettable by every account. I hold God at every promise, and wait longingly for the fulfillment of each and every one.<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
Obioma <br />
<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-60311680331530372652017-01-02T04:31:00.003-08:002017-01-02T04:31:56.133-08:00God and the Millennial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
The millennial, the 20 something to early 30 something who grew up in the world of the first cellphone, the first portable computers and the Kardashians. If you looked up random facts about Generation Y, you would discover that we have the highest number of facebook friends, and we take the greatest amount of selfies. You would also discover based on whatever source you chose, that 50 % of us are uninterested in politics and 30% of us are religiously unaffiliated.<br />
<br />
I distinctly remember the panic in the church as it became more and more evident that more of my generation no longer had an interest in church. Sermon after sermon analyzed why generation Y was forsaking the God of their fathers. I took the sermons in stride, obviously I was in church every Sunday, so clearly these issues did not apply to me.<br />
<br />
If you've read my other blog posts, the picture should be clear by now: church girl, goes to college, rebels, remembers God, returns.<br />
I became part of the same statistics that I had mockingly ignored.<br />
My question then became "why God?"<br />
Other than the obvious answer ' the devil', why was my generation so thirsty for everything besides God. Why was my generation rebelling with such determination? Why did we constantly run away from the only thing that actually makes sense in this world?<br />
<br />
The millennial is a unique group of people caught between the constant need for affirmation and the desire to stand out. We want so terribly to be accepted and at the same time we need to feel different, unique and special. The infrastructure of our upbringing sets a foundation compromised partially of parents who are unsure of themselves in different ways, a world that glamorizes certain uniqueness and a global community where we now have a basis to judge our worth based on others.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Rebellion provides the perfect avenue to meet our need for unique attention. The millennial runs to the world to be accepted and runs from God for attention. </h3>
Truth be told, we are a bunch of insecure people constantly trying to figure it out.<br />
If you don't know the living God, you try to figure 'it' out by the world's standards. You seek wealth, physical aesthetics, material goods to affirm that you are somebody and that you have made it.<br />
IF have a relationship with the living God, you struggle occasionally with feeling confident in yourself through Christ, <u><b>but you always realize that Christ is your only standard.</b></u><br />
<br />
<b>The Lord wants the millennial to know that he is in constant pursuit of you.</b><br />
There's no mountain too high, or valley too deep where you can escape the love of God. (Romans 8:39) The faithfulness of God means that his love is ever abiding, and he desperately yearns for a tangible relationship with each and every one of you. There's a reason you run from one vice to another and there's a reason your insecurities never quite flee.<br />
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The truth is, we are the generation that God desperately yearns for. <i>There are prophets, apostles, teachers, pastors, evangelists that are so busy chasing the approval of the world, that their anointing is left unattended.</i><br />
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With the accomplishments of my generation, the globalization, the modern technology, the awareness.... I always wonder what if we were all completely sold out for Christ.<br />
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As 2017 dawns, I challenge you to be resolute about Jesus. Stop running.<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
Obioma<br />
<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-61587389253538726732016-12-08T07:54:00.000-08:002016-12-08T07:54:00.252-08:00Be intentional about all things God<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Your relationship with God shouldn't be accidental. If we seek to have a purposed life, then we need to be purposeful in what we pursue <i>and</i> <b>how we pursue Christ.</b><br />
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Don't let the enemy steal the time that should be devoted to your father in heaven.<br />
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Watch my latest YouTube video. I pray you're encouraged!<br />
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All my love,<br />
ObiomaObiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-1747905061528654952016-12-04T20:11:00.000-08:002016-12-04T20:16:36.779-08:00How to read the bible<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrIRIKmS-qY_Mv8IH-MRr75BZn6yxvXh8ra0aIRAneF8bXeBPOK1UayPkqnIAc67OYZTBIutGusSQjuLyYytGEGsMa4_IBD8PGQMODRA7lvKtaIUy72ikKmwfz_r6_N9e5Urnrldc_aG9/s1600/12178-dusty-bible-lets-talk-ls.1200w.tn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrIRIKmS-qY_Mv8IH-MRr75BZn6yxvXh8ra0aIRAneF8bXeBPOK1UayPkqnIAc67OYZTBIutGusSQjuLyYytGEGsMa4_IBD8PGQMODRA7lvKtaIUy72ikKmwfz_r6_N9e5Urnrldc_aG9/s320/12178-dusty-bible-lets-talk-ls.1200w.tn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The foundation of Christianity is the word of God.<br />
If anyone is preaching to you from anything other than the bible and claims to be a Christ follower, run, fast and far.<br />
<br />
The problem with the modern believer is that we don't know the weapons of our warfare. We claim to love God, we may even attend church faithfully, but ask us about a verse and we're clueless about where it is in the bible. I'm not speaking of legalism that mandates that you know every verse and every bible story. I'm speaking on pure willful ignorance to the written word of God. Ignorance that is either attributed to laziness, or a lack of discipline. <i>We as Believers can no longer afford to chose ignorance when it comes to the things of God.</i><br />
<br />
For perspective, think about how long it would take you to find the book of Nahum in the bible.<br />
<i>Did you even know the book of Nahum is in the bible?</i><br />
Is it in new testament or old testament?<br />
<br />
I don't write this in a demeaning way, nor in an effort to condemn. I write in love to convict and to stir a passion inside you.<br />
<h3>
We can not claim to love the God of the word, and not know the word of God.</h3>
Lazy Christianity relies on the pastor to teach you the bible. <br />
<br />
BUT God also endows each and every believer with the ability to read his word independently and gain understanding.<br />
When you stand before Christ, he will not accept your excuse that 'your pastor said this' and 'your mother said this' as reasons why you failed to learn and apply his precepts.<br />
<br />
While God sends help to teach us about his ways, the ultimate responsibility to understand is ours alone. Scripture is clear in <b>2 Timothy 2:15</b> when it says<i> " <span class="text 2Tim-2-15" id="en-KJV-29843">Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."</span></i><br />
<span class="text 2Tim-2-15" id="en-KJV-29843">We as believers are commissioned to know the word of God for ourselves so that we can easily and quickly determine when truth is being spoken.</span><br />
<span class="text 2Tim-2-15" id="en-KJV-29843"><br /></span>
I do believe that the reason many Christians lack knowledge about God's word because they fail to open it.<br />
I read a quote on instagram that said "Don't complain that God isn't answering your prayers when your bible remains closed." I had to do a praise dance after that. God's word is so full of spiritual and practical guidance and it is under utilized.We complain so much about our lives, we plead our trials and tribulations, but never open the word.<br />
We as a generation can no longer afford to be anything but sold out for the things of God and the foundation of God is his word.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The word of God is how we learn ourselves and most importantly how we learn our God.</h3>
<br />
Practically, I know reading the bible can be daunting.<br />
Some believe the bible is entirely 'thees' and 'thous'.<br />
Others don't know where to start or how to start.<br />
Some people struggle to figure out where the application comes in.<br />
<br />
To sit here and pretend that in the span of a simple blog post I can teach you how to read the bible in entirety is belittling the greatness of the God's word.<br />
Individuals spend their whole lives learning the bible, and a simple blog post could never do it justice.<br />
<br />
What I do want to do is offer practical tips to start you on your own bible adventure. The word is clear that our spiritual battles are fought with the word, and that means as a believer we have to know God's word in order to be armed for battle. <i> Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be
able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of
salvation, and <u>the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God</u> </i><i><u> . <b> </b></u></i><i><b> Ephesians 6:16,17</b> </i> <br />
<br />
<b>To start:</b><br />
<br />
1: Pray for the Holy spirit to grant you revelation.<br />
This is simply entreating the Lord for insight about his word as you read it.<br />
<br />
2: Get a bible in a version that you can understand.<br />
I am not a fan of the 'Message bible' I believe it contains significant inaccuracies. Please do your own research though. My recommendations for versions include: New Living Translation and New International Version, King James is always an awesome original.<br />
<br />
3: Know your basics. The bible is split into two testaments. 'Old testament and new testament'. There are 66 books. Each book has several chapters and each chapter has several verses.<br />
<br />
4:If you're first time bible reader, my suggestion is to begin with the book of John located in the new testament. I believe as you read, the spirit of God will make the word come alive to you.<br />
<br />
Step 5: Create a concrete plan and follow it. Websites like Biblegateway.com offer devotional plans for reading the bible.<br />
<br />
As you're reading the word, keep in mind the context of the text. Think: who, what where and why?. Bible concordances are great tools for studying scripture, and never hesitate to look up the meaning of unfamiliar terms or phrases.<br />
<br />
Your bible should always be your first resource for the things of God. I hope you read this feeling enabled and impassioned to open your 'Sword'. I pray the Lord leads you through scripture and teaches you as only he can. Most importantly I pray that as you learn the word of God your spirit is strengthened to live out God's good and perfect will.<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
<br />
Obioma<br />
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<br />Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-76889047896362682192016-10-14T19:49:00.001-07:002016-10-14T19:49:26.658-07:00Fasting 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeq3muciBr3GNeOCuhoteayFmATz_QIm-DlcVza_I3tZ8T3srCA2qbugp5y3KrwlPnUEcylA9BFwerEMRaNxU3o55jEC8uh9D8pIqxX4nbfXJp6XX2Xrv0bbEgImTN6ozq_v930l3NgOsE/s1600/fastingpic1-300x199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeq3muciBr3GNeOCuhoteayFmATz_QIm-DlcVza_I3tZ8T3srCA2qbugp5y3KrwlPnUEcylA9BFwerEMRaNxU3o55jEC8uh9D8pIqxX4nbfXJp6XX2Xrv0bbEgImTN6ozq_v930l3NgOsE/s1600/fastingpic1-300x199.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I remember hearing about 'fasting' as a little girl. My family church annually held a corporate fast, where the whole church would give up certain foods or certain activities for a period of time.<br />
<br />
My mom would try to get me to fast, but I always shrugged her off, mainly because I had no spiritual awareness of the significance of fasting.<br />
I would often say things like <i>"What's the point of not eating..."</i><br />
<i>"How can that really do anything"</i><br />
It seemed pointless to deny myself delicious food for any period of time...for what? I couldn't see the necessity of such an act, and food tasted way too good to just stop eating.<br />
<br />
It wasn't until I matured spiritually that I began to practice the discipline of fasting.<br />
After rededicating my life to Christ, I would read my word, pray, but there was something missing. It felt like there were certain hurdles I just couldn't overcome. It seemed like the more I pressed into God, the greater the yearning for more became.<br />
<br />
That's when I stumbled upon the verse in <b>Matthew 17:20-21</b><br />
In this chapter, Jesus encounters a man who has a son that is possessed and suffers from demonic seizures. <u>Jesus casts out the demons and the disciples ask why they are not able to do the same.</u><br />
<br />
Jesus's reply is simple: <i><b>because the disciples lack faith.</b></i><br />
But what caught my attention, wasn't the Lord's declaration of the problem, but His solution to it.<br />
<h4>
Jesus then goes on to tell the disciples that the type of faith needed to cast out demons is as small as a mustard seed, but that this type of faith can only built by prayer and fasting.</h4>
<br />
That's when the light-bulb went off in my head. I always thought fasting was something that was optional in scripture, not mandatory. But the bible is clear when it says '<u>When'</u> you fast, not 'If' you fast.<b>Matthew 6:16</b><br />
<br />
I believe the hangup associated with fasting for some believers come from some basic questions:<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b>What is fasting?</b></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b>What is the purpose of fasting?/What does fasting do?</b></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b>How do I fast?</b></h3>
<br />
<br />
<u><b>What is fasting/ a fast? </b></u><br />
<br />
Fasting is a spiritual discipline. Fasting is abstaining from all food, or certain types of food for a predetermined period of time. The period of a fast also includes abstaining from specific activities as well. (In this era, it can be social media, watching and listening to certain music/movies/T.v. shows, etc). The activities include anything that does not ultimately glorify God.<br />
<br />
A fast can vary in duration from: 1 day to 40 days<br />
A fast can vary in type .<br />
A fast can consist of giving up all food for a period of time, or giving up just meats and animal products.<br />
<br />
Fasting can be an individual discipline, or a corporate discipline (done in a group or a church). <br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>What is the purpose of fasting?/What does fasting do? </b></u><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A fast IS <b>NOT</b> a diet.<br />
Fasting IS<b> NOT</b> about weight loss . Fasting IS NOT about changing the look of your natural body.<br />
Fasting IS <b>NOT</b> a ritual, or something done just because.<br />
Fasting IS <b>NOT</b> to show mock repentance, or to show how holy you are. <br />
<br />
Fasting IS about building up the spiritual man.<br />
Fasting IS a process of consecration, a discipline to build holiness.<br />
<br />
A Fast IS a means to move the hand of God. <i><b>2. Samuel 2:21; Esther 4:16</b></i><br />
A Fast IS a way to seek the guidance of God. <i><b>The book of</b></i> <i><b>Daniel</b></i> <br />
A Fast IS a method to activate anointing. <i><b>Matthew 4</b></i><br />
<br />
There are times in our walk where we need God to intervene or do a work on our behalf. It can be a dire situation where we need God to do the impossible. It can be for favor in school, at our job, with our families. Sometimes we deal with demonic afflictions that require God's hand to guarantee victory. God delights in intervening for our sake, but it's not just a matter of praying, it's a matter of submitting our spirit to the will of God.<br />
When you fast, you humble your spirit man and yield to the perfect will of God. By abstaining from food and ungodly influence while praying, we tell <i><b>and </b></i>show God that our desire for His will is greater than our desire to satisfy basic human needs.<br />
<br />
Fasting puts God at the correct position as priority number 1 in our lives.<br />
After Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights, the enemy tries to tempt him and Christ responds '<span class="_Tgc">'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds. out of the mouth of God."<b>Matthew 4:4</b></span><br />
<span class="_Tgc"><b>When we fast, we become the living embodiment of Matthew 4:4. </b>We show God that he is our sustain-er, not food, not water, but His Holy spirit.</span><br />
<br />
<u><b>How do I fast?</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
The hardest part of any fast is starting. The question always begs <i>'Where do I start?'</i> <i>'How do I start?'</i><br />
<b>My first suggestion is to consult the Holy spirit, He will lead you and guide you on what kind of fast you should do and for how long.</b><br />
<br />
Practically, if you've never fasted before, my suggestion: don't jump into a 40 day fast. Unless of course the Spirit has compelled you, then by all means.<br />
Start with a shorter fast, a one day fast perhaps or a three day fast.<br />
Start by partially fasting some foods and gradually build yourself up.<br />
<br />
Fasting should always be accompanied by prayer.<br />
<b>Talk to God before you begin your fast, humble yourself before Him and make your petitions plain. </b><br />
As you fast, know that the point of a fast is to discipline your spirit.<br />
<i>This means that you're not just taking away from your flesh, you're also feeding your spirit.</i><br />
You feed your spirit by reading the bible, praying, and guarding your heart.<br />
This means that you're not listening to secular music, watching movies that don't glorify God or participating in conversations that don't edify your spirit.<br />
It means you're intentional about every aspect of your life.<br />
<br />
<h3>
If you're seeking a breakthrough in your physical life or your spiritual life, my first suggestion is always prayer and fasting.</h3>
I trust the Lord will lead you and guide you as He places the necessity of fasting on your heart.<br />
I encourage you to do your own research and to seek the wisdom of Godly council<i> (on and off the internet).</i><br />
Happy fasting ya'll :)<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
Obioma <br />
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<span class="_Tgc"><b> </b></span><br />
<span class="_Tgc"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span class="_Tgc"><b> </b></span><i><b> </b></i>Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-82472925374276318062016-09-19T11:27:00.000-07:002016-09-20T07:26:22.929-07:00To wear or not to wear, that is the question<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UXPox_MIvZWND4qgrx4N50VM520rcfMnwUZ3PhhnYBeYeju97OARLXglhqj5RILDEaiX2SPEpDZZLU1i-KiJgS7UDbECIUozPCnCtL4-r925yDbvwA9gAO54MIi-jF7qW2yQF1rgJXwP/s1600/IMG_3859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UXPox_MIvZWND4qgrx4N50VM520rcfMnwUZ3PhhnYBeYeju97OARLXglhqj5RILDEaiX2SPEpDZZLU1i-KiJgS7UDbECIUozPCnCtL4-r925yDbvwA9gAO54MIi-jF7qW2yQF1rgJXwP/s320/IMG_3859.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New York trip, 2016. Long cardigan for literally</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> $10</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As a woman, society places such an importance on our clothing choices. Honestly it's just not society, it's most religions, it's governing bodies...other people. Clothing defines so much of not just our lives, but how people view us.<br />
Yes, there are plenty of people who don't judge you based on your clothing choices, or how you choose to dress your body<u>. But I truly believe that more people<b> DO</b> judge, than don't.</u><br />
<br />
As much as we like to deny it, clothing is often the outward distinction of various aspects of social hierarchy. Clothing also serves as an external representation of internal perception.<br />
<br />
That's why we have 'name brand' clothing, and uniforms. We know police officer based off the green or blue attire, we know nurses from their scrubs, doctors from their white coats and so on.<br />
<br />
<b>So what does your clothing say about you?</b><br />
<br />
As a fashion connoisseur, I personally love clothing..all types. I love trends and I like to dress stylishly. <i>As a christian woman...it can be downright hard to do so.</i><br />
<br />
<h4>
I find myself struggling to fit into the 'what a good christian girl should look like' box. I remember sitting in bible study and saying "I never want to be one of those christian girls"</h4>
<br />
<i>What are 'those christian girls' ?</i><br />
Well, you know...the ones that wear leggings under dresses that reach past their knees, the ones that put scarves over everything.<br />
The ones that think showing your skin is a stamp of hell.<br />
<b>I just didn't want to be one of those women who fit the contemporary cookie cutter christian fashion. </b><br />
<b>You know....the long jeans, long shirt, long cardigan...long everything.</b><br />
<h3>
And it's not because I think their fashion is ugly, <u>but it isn't my personal style</u>.<b> </b></h3>
If I had to categorize myself, I would definitely say I am more on the bohemian, edgy side of fashion.<br />
<br />
So I struggled.<br />
I love clothes, I love trends...I didn't think showing my skin was a stamp of hell.<br />
<br />
So the question remained, what were my boundaries when it came to my clothing choices?<br />
<br />
Fortunately, as I grew in my faith, so did conviction about my fashion choices.<br />
<b>As woman, the word charges us to be modest.</b><br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span class="reftext"></span><span class="highl">1 Timothy 2:9 </span>I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety,
adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or
expensive clothes,</h3>
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">The verse does not mean that God doesn't want you to look nice, or dress your hair and wear jewelry (unfortunately, many believers interpret this as so.)</span><br />
<span class="p">An adornment is something that adds attractiveness. Therefore the word is charging women to allow their modesty, decency and propriety to be what makes them attractive, not their clothing or accessory choices. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">The bible also makes it clear that women were created as the fairer sex, and that men ultimately enjoy our physical appearance, so it is up to us to make sure the way we clothe ourselves is not a point of lust for our brothers in Christ. </span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">Yes, society says everyone is responsible for themselves, and to an extent.. this is true. Ultimately I refuse to be an intentional stumbling block for another believer especially with something as crippling as sin.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">So what does that mean in terms of my appearance, do I fall into legalism and cover my body from head to toe? No. I don't believe the holy spirit has not led me to do this. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaHBxJL1-BMwGAGaT0Q-r8ijp_optm0RPkm1rvdyEQnAkOMM05ClKAui1_5Mjc66x46T-eZucg3Ozxzh0tzL_IVFqqYkP7F1Tv0VaCNCuEA8Tghh0A0yHCpaa9fcJaalP-aNILvqqfIgC/s1600/IMG_8339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaHBxJL1-BMwGAGaT0Q-r8ijp_optm0RPkm1rvdyEQnAkOMM05ClKAui1_5Mjc66x46T-eZucg3Ozxzh0tzL_IVFqqYkP7F1Tv0VaCNCuEA8Tghh0A0yHCpaa9fcJaalP-aNILvqqfIgC/s320/IMG_8339.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I rarely wear graphic shirts, but they can spice up an outfit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span class="p">The deeper I walk with Christ, the more I desire to reserve my body for the Lord's eye and for my future husbands eyes.</span></b><br />
<br />
<h3>
<span class="p">To be perfectly clear: I still wear shorts, I still wear tank tops, I still wear dresses that stop before my knees.</span></h3>
<h3>
<span class="p">What's different? my heart. the length of my clothing, the style of my clothing.</span></h3>
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">There's certain clothing I don't buy, not because as a woman, I don't think it's cute...</span><br />
<span class="p">But because for my body, it's too revealing,</span><br />
<span class="p">because it conveys an image I don't want associated with my person.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRhfN1Mn_wrybn562k-uY9tBg0SoxZN21mHFKAecpgvUoEpTh-mtNfZePOJ5fGnv3cy8k3z48nT05Fn4Gk7kHxpJqZF8UKGwilAmCPDa9quNfaDKH_9mjoPg7gTq-Cma08VL53-mBkRkf/s1600/IMG_1514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkRhfN1Mn_wrybn562k-uY9tBg0SoxZN21mHFKAecpgvUoEpTh-mtNfZePOJ5fGnv3cy8k3z48nT05Fn4Gk7kHxpJqZF8UKGwilAmCPDa9quNfaDKH_9mjoPg7gTq-Cma08VL53-mBkRkf/s320/IMG_1514.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice loose fitting dress, on trend (jean material)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="p"></span><br />
<span class="p"></span>
<h2>
<span class="p">So, to wear or not to wear that is the question.</span></h2>
<b><span class="p"><br />Some spiritual and practical ways to answer this question are:</span></b><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<i><span class="p">Are you questioning the outfit even before you leave the house? </span></i><br />
<span class="p">That's clue #1 that you may be wearing something that is inappropriate for your body.</span><br />
<i><span class="p">Do you feel uncomfortable in the clothes: Are the clothes too tight, too short? too loose?</span></i><br />
<span class="p">That's clue #2 that it may not be the outfit for you</span><br />
<i><span class="p">What if it's a perfectly acceptable outfit, but something in your spirit, says..nope, not for you.</span></i><br />
<span class="p">That's clue #3 that that outfit may not be for you.</span><span class="p"></span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<b><span class="p">Always remember:</span></b><br />
<span class="p"><b>1.</b> Let the Holy spirit lead your attire. When he convicts you, listen.</span><br />
<span class="p"><b>2.</b> The occasion helps with the dress (are you at the beach, at home, on a date?)</span><br />
<span class="p"><b>3.</b> Dress for your body, your curves, your size. (as a woman with thicker thighs, my shorts ride up, and look shorter than a woman with smaller thighs. I have to keep that in mind when buying things like shorts)</span><br />
<span class="p"><b>4.</b>Be creative, modest doesn't have to look a certain way. I'm a huge fan of kimonos, long cardigans, maxi dresses and skirts</span><br />
<span class="p"><b>5.</b> Your heart will determine your outfit. Believe it or not, if you're truly trying to look fashionable, it will be conveyed in the clothing you chose. if you're trying to appear sexy, seductive, etc....that shows too. So chose wisely.</span><br />
<span class="p"><b>6.</b> Don't underestimate the power of a well fitting, well covered clothing</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqK_DsXOdUXRlNYL7KsEAVXkv6PdXpbAT6-vgttVf5pxXi1UHl9OAAE-6KaFrgxozQxeV4QX0IWRNF_sc16l8Y1nem6ROyApy1a0mk1NS91h-RAIAcNRLGfAfhs8YCf_UPTgv5lGGXzMc/s1600/12818947_206152179745998_2007287003_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkqK_DsXOdUXRlNYL7KsEAVXkv6PdXpbAT6-vgttVf5pxXi1UHl9OAAE-6KaFrgxozQxeV4QX0IWRNF_sc16l8Y1nem6ROyApy1a0mk1NS91h-RAIAcNRLGfAfhs8YCf_UPTgv5lGGXzMc/s320/12818947_206152179745998_2007287003_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This dress can be on the shorter side, the looser fit makes it okay in my eyes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span class="p">I've included random pictures from my life to illustrate some fashion choices. Honestly, just because i wear it it doesn't mean you can or should...and just because you can wear something, it does not mean I can or should.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">Again, I still wear dresses and shorts. I just make it a point to listen to God when he tells me that's too sexy Obioma, that's too short. And yes, of course I fall short, but each day I get a little better.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">Do ya'll have any modest apparel must haves? My favorite is the kimono, it adds instant style and it provides great coverage.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BFVoCubY_w97gQF4ymavreCb1sQ2P-6SM-o_yfculz5Y7EJ6Pc-lWctijchoOw09D_F9V5DvkQqvFWZFDJ13-8e2rZ4U05kKMxaAEUZWIr1cJO76AoClqFE9AqRTU_JbI6reI6sLRqlG/s1600/14374492_1588824244752247_1126675674_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BFVoCubY_w97gQF4ymavreCb1sQ2P-6SM-o_yfculz5Y7EJ6Pc-lWctijchoOw09D_F9V5DvkQqvFWZFDJ13-8e2rZ4U05kKMxaAEUZWIr1cJO76AoClqFE9AqRTU_JbI6reI6sLRqlG/s320/14374492_1588824244752247_1126675674_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I struggled with wearing the romper by itself, tbh..it was too short, but paired with a kimono, it was perfect for the hot day.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span class="p">What's yours?</span></b><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p">All my love,</span><br />
<span class="p">Obioma</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<span class="p"><br /></span>Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3572682581079057703.post-73503876963083964712016-09-06T08:50:00.000-07:002016-09-06T08:50:54.815-07:00The unexpected blessings in lifeThis is more a diary entry than a blog post, but hey, that's the beauty of having your own platform to share and express yourself...you write whatever you want.<br />
<br />
This past weekend, I went to New York to visit my father. To be completely honest, I pretty much dreaded the trip for various reasons. My father and I were very close as a child, I was most definitely a daddy's girl. As I've grown up our relationship has changed.<br />
<br />
Now I don't call him as often as I used to, and we can go months without speaking. I hold no ill will towards my dad, but things just aren't the same. I look at other women who have a close relationship with the father figures in their life, and a twinge of envy sometimes stabs at me.I've gotten better at understanding this emotion, and working it out with Jesus.<br />
<br />
So basically up until the trip, I dreaded it. I didn't necessarily want to face the one on one conversations. I just knew that I knew that it would be incessant talk pressuring me to pursue medical school.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, the whole experience was nothing like I expected. A lot of my weekend I spent exploring the inside of my mind, learning new things about myself, and the other half I spent really seeing a different side of my father. I think at certain stage in your parents life, there's such a strong urge to impart. I learned things about my daddy I never knew. I saw myself in him, and I gained perspective on his struggles. We talked about God, we talked about success, we talked about love...it was so strange, and so out of my comfort zone. I believe I will always treasure this weekend in retrospect. I visibly felt and saw my father's love for me for the first time in years. As a woman....it was really nice.<br />
<br />
Ultimately the experience was cathartic, an honestly unexpected blessing. I hope ya'll had a blessed labor day weekend and enjoyed valuable time with your loved ones.<br />
<br />
All my love,<br />
Obioma<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfCkawrIYhZ1ucpWbKgC-hntDirPofd0RNhgfWZTZgKf1UprWb9YhFrR48jpltiVa7rX539fv1n4Lvtq9CX5tsdIOQjBDhNErkgxcZqfkWes3EP9y-YxiVHevSau5GK4wgQOunBQdQx29/s1600/IMG_3877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfCkawrIYhZ1ucpWbKgC-hntDirPofd0RNhgfWZTZgKf1UprWb9YhFrR48jpltiVa7rX539fv1n4Lvtq9CX5tsdIOQjBDhNErkgxcZqfkWes3EP9y-YxiVHevSau5GK4wgQOunBQdQx29/s320/IMG_3877.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">live at the Apollo. Shout out to my camera man: Daddy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Obiomahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01731581631301769682noreply@blogger.com0