Encouragement

TalithaCumi3

Cheers to You!

Dearly Beloved,

Have you ever had a moment in your life, where you felt the need to celebrate? Today, I challenge you to do just that.  Let’s reflect for just a moment. Think about where you were this time last year.  Do you recognize a substantial change within or is it about the same?  If it’s the latter, take heart because that mean’s it’s time to wake up, RISE, and smell the coffee!  Refuse to accept the same, monotonous routine every day.  Most of the time we are so deep in our mess, we don’t even realize that we have allowed our self-induced foolery to become our norm.  Warriors, there one thing I have learned is that change is constant and willing to infiltrate your “business as usual” type of day.

Cheers to you for God allowing you to see this 15th day of October 2014!  Heaven is celebrating right now that you are alive, well, and most of all ready to make an impact on the world around you.  Don’t you give up on God, and most of all give up on yourself.  You matter!  You are loved! You are valued!  Do you know why because God says so and HE sent me to you as a reminder!  A good friend of mine once said “What has happened has already happened there’s nothing you can do to change that.”  Friends, always remember there’s a party that you’re always invited to…and its call PITY!  Guess what?  You don’t have to show up!

Celebrate God for who HE is and not just for what HIS hand automatically does because He’s so gracious. Celebrate HIS darling son Jesus Christ.  Ignore the forces of darkness, negative voices, and most of all negative people! I also want you to take inventory of who you allow to speak into your life and the things that you allow to infiltrate your mind, eyes, ears, and heart.  Never forget that what you constantly meditate on manifests itself always.  Friends, that’s all for now…until we “meet” again….

Xoxo,

The Risen Warrior

 

 

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3, [2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Mrs. Candace A. Stevens] and [TalithaCumi+3] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

Exposing the Small Foxes

Dearly Beloved,
Overcoming is the key to moving past stumbling blocks and hindrances. Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vineyards; for our vineyards are in blossom. (Song of Solomon 2:15, ERV) What are small foxes?  Small foxes are life patterns that rob us of the abundant life that we are entitled to.  It’s those “little” things that we do that keeps us separated from God.  Trust your gut instinct that says it’s okay that your small foxes are exposed. A wave of negative energy that flows outwardly is vital to push past obstacles. If you need to cry, it’s okay because it’s those tears shed that cleanse your soul. Friends realize what worked back then can’t work now.
Like David, you have the power to cast stones at every giant in your life. May I speak to all of my warriors for a minute?  Warriors we must have the spiritual maturity and strength to be transparent.  The way to connect to our fellow brother or sister is through being authentic.  What if your uncomfortable?  It’s good to be uncomfortable simply because you are called to grow. The epitome of being out of your comfort zone is what Jesus experienced.
He was summoned to the Earth realm to embark on the human experience.  Beloved, he was away from home.  Our Heavenly father shared the gift of his Son in order to bring us back to himself.  God loves us that much.  I’m so happy to be an heir to the throne. Are you?
xoxo,
The Risen Warrior

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3, [2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Mrs. Candace A. Stevens] and [TalithaCumi+3] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

Marriage is Not a Disease: It’s a Blessing

Dearly Beloved,

Hope all is well.  My heart was led to write to you guys about marriage today.  In society, marriage has been devalued to being some “common” practice.  Let’s take a closer look at what marriage is and what it’s not.  Marriage is a holy, divine, sacred covenant that God ordained between a man and a woman.  A couple may choose to demonstrate their covenant commitment before God and men in a large ceremony or a small private ceremony.  The latter is not important.  The importance is that two people have decided to come together as one to honor God by glorying his name in the Earth.  God’s purpose for marriage is to reflect God’s person, reproduce children in God’s likeness, and reign in the Earth.

The platform of marriage also represents a glorious picture of the relationship between Jesus Christ, his Bride, and the Church. Marriage is also a spiritual reflection of our divine relationship with God.  Marriage is NOT to be taken lightly.  In my thirty-two years, I have seen and heard a lot of distorted views about marriage.  Marriage is NOT prison, the ball/chain, or a DISEASE! Marriage is also a beautiful, intimate close union between husband and wife until death due them part.  Until we meet again…may peace and favor rest on you and your family.

xoxo,

The Risen Warrior

Copyright 2014 ©TalithaCumi+3

TalithaCumi3

TO BE OR NOT TO BE: ADDICTED? PART 2

Dearly Beloved,

Welcome back to “The Warrior’s Corner” once again!  I pray that this weekend has been a blessing to you thus far.  Did you ascend to the last request that I made of you guys?  If you are following us on Facebook, you will see that I tried rock climbing over the weekend and it was absolutely fun.   Have you had the opportunity to try something new?  Let’s face it “routines” are boring.  Evolution always involves a process of slow change and development; so I encourage us to take each day one at a time.

The propensity to face yourself can be a difficult task.  Isn’t it amazing how we already have the solutions for everyone else’s problems but not our own?  As a fellow warrior, you have the privilege to fight in the every day battles that life may toss your way.  Can we take it a step further?  In your warrior posture, God will always give you the strength and courage needed to engage in whatever your fight is.   Beloved, that includes any addictions that keeps you in bondage.  I’m confident that you have had the opportunity to ponder the questions from yesterday’s post.  Please review To Be or Not to Be Addicted? Part 1, if you haven’t done so already.  The questions were:  What I am the slave to?  What am I allowing to master me?  Is it food, drugs, sex, alcohol (excessive use), pornography, social media, cell phones, technology, etc.?

Great news!  There’s only eighty days left in the year 2014, and you don’t have to remain the same for the rest of your life.  It’s time for us destroy the yolks of bondage, fear, doubt, and unbelief.  Right now, you can take heart that the chains, traps, distractions, that once held you down has been broken in Jesus’s name.  Friends, you were created to have dominion over ALL things. Guys, that includes all of those aforementioned as well.

Guess what?  You won’t be able to say I didn’t tell you so.  It’s my pleasure to serve you on this platform daily, and challenge you to ascend above where you are today.  Now, go in peace and bask in your freedom.  You are free from your past, guilt, and shame. Warriors, you can’t walk boldy in your newness, carrying the same old garbage that you have always wrestled with.  The moment you are tempted to go backwards, remind yourself of the promise mentioned in Isaiah 61:3 (ESV).  Beloved, sometimes we have to encourage ourself as David did.  Remind yourself that you have exchanged all of the foolery for peace.

Isaiah 61:3 (ESV), God promises to grant to those who mourn in Zion-to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.  Until we meet again…

xoxo,

The Risen Warrior

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3, [2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Mrs. Candace A. Stevens] and [TalithaCumi+3] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

To Be or Not to Be: Addicted? Part 1

Dearly Beloved,

To be or not to be: Addicted?  Hopefully, your answer would be the latter.  According to Merriam-Webster, the definition of addiction is a strong and harmful need to have something or do something.  Additionally, addiction is defined as an unusually, great interest in something or a need to do or have something. Warriors, journey with me for a line or two.  Truth is what sets us free right?

Addictions are one commonality that all of us as human beings have experienced.  The difference is some of us are exposed, and some of us not.  It’s those secret things that nobody knows about but you and God above.  Addictions, are those vices that crepitate and slither through our souls and its ultimate goal is to steal, kill, and destroy us.

Consider this: 2 Peter 2:19 (NIV) says, “they promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity”for people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.” In order to capture the full scope, I invite you to read the entire book of 2nd Peter.  For the sake of this missive, our focus is on the latter part of this verse.  Now ask yourself this question what I am the slave to?  What am I allowing to master me?  Is it food, drugs, sex, alcohol (excessive use), pornography, social media, cell phones, technology, etc.? Ponder, ponder, ponder….there’s more to come stay tuned for Part 2 of To Be or Not to Be: Addicted?

xoxo,

The Risen Warrior

 

 

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3, [2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Mrs. Candace A. Stevens] and [TalithaCumi+3] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

A View of the Heart: It Matters

Dearly Beloved,

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

Your heart is the breeding ground for more than you realize. What is your heart thinking? What is your heart speaking Zion? It’s important to be mindful of what you expose your spirit to on a daily basis. If you meditate on the wrong things on a consistent basis, eventually it will manifest.

Most of the time we fool ourselves by basking in what will never happen. Rest in the fact that you can always view your heart space and gut out the contamination. The process is simple: start with you! Meditate on the word. Take it at least three times a day depending on your condition.

Warriors remain engaged in the fight! If you fall, get back up! The word of God is so powerful it has the ability to cut through any situation suddenly! To be continued…

Xoxo,

The Risen Warrior

 

 

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3, [2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Mrs. Candace A. Stevens] and [TalithaCumi+3] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

For Every I Can’t, God Says You Can!

Dearly Beloved,

Are you tired of being sick and tired?  Our very nature often solicits us to our comfort zone or the norm. Life says “You’re tired.” Your schedule says, “I don’t have time for that.”  There’s a host of many other things that we rehearse, and nurse only to deceive ourselves into thinking that it’s okay to be a couch potato.

Zion, I’m coming to encourage us to not accept less than God’s best for our life. In our “microwave society, there’s always a push for the next magic pill, powder, or game changing potion to blink us into our skinny jeans. Reality check: Soooo not true!

Consider this: What if you decided today to honor God by exercising and pure clean eating? Now some may call it old-fashioned or too slow. The problem is that we don’t want to go through the process. Immediate results are what we all desire and need. There’s no point in running yourself in the ground because you’re busy. Answer the following questions: How can I be effective for God and his majestic kingdom being obese, sick, or tired? How can I function properly in all roles God has designated for me if I don’t take proper care of myself?

In short, God desires us to have fresh wisdom in all of our decisions James 1:5. Beloved, rise to the occasion! Show up for yourself for at least 30 minutes a day! YOU are worth it. Consistency is a sure way to bring the desired results. Focus on your target and grow. I promise it will show up in all areas of your life. Until we meet again….

Xoxo,
The Risen Warrior

 

 

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3, [2014]. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to [Mrs. Candace A. Stevens] and [TalithaCumi+3] with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

Yes! Your Hair Too!

Beloved,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! We all come to a trace in our life where we rely on our own strength.  In Judges 16: 17-22 we see the relationship between Samson and the strength of his hair. Samson’s hair served as his strength and caused him to see many victories throughout his path.  If you explore the text further, you will find that with his hair shaved there’s no room for him to walk in sweat less victories.

As we fast forward today, the natural hair arena is taking the world by storm. Many men/women such as myself, have returned back to their natural hair that God has gifted them. 1 Corinthians 11:15 demonstrates the connection between a woman and her hair. “But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering. Our hair is a glory to us which simply means that it is a source of honor, fame, or admiration, a distinguished ornament or object of pride.

Many men/women are novices with their own hair and chose to not embrace it fully. Situations, circumstances, life events, or destructive patterns can lead to a road of frustration and a host of other things if we don’t become spiritually rooted and grounded in The Lord concerning our hair. Believe it or not our God desires to be included in every fabric of our lives.   The Lord recently revealed this truth to me: As I rely on Him for other areas of my life, I must include him in my natural hair journey as well. Am I speaking to you right now?  It’s okay because we all need a little push to return back to the center. The Truth.  Beloved, nothing less than the word of God.

Warriors, you must know that as you rely on your food to provide you nourishment, and a host of other things,  be encouraged to know that The Living Word has the answer as well. Ladies and gentlemen I submit to you that The Word still works! Are you having trouble growing your hair or breakage? Anything opposite of progress? Take joy in the fact that there’s nothing but space and opportunity to retract and start fresh. RISE to the occasion. Happy growing! To be continued….

Xoxo,

The Risen Warrior

 

 

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3 (2014). Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Mrs. Candace A. Stevens and TalithaCumi+3 with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

TalithaCumi3

Will you Go?

Dearly Beloved,

Take God at His Word. It’s never too late to execute your goals, dreams, and aspirations. Genesis 24:1 declares that Abraham was old well advanced in age; and The Lord blessed Abraham in all things.  Friends, obedience to The Lord and loyalty to his plan will take you to people, places, and things far beyond your mind’s capacity. Please observe the posture of Abraham’s oldest servant. He believed in God and was focused on the plan that God had spoken through Abraham. Genesis 24:2-4 says, So Abraham said to  the oldest servant of his house, who ruled over all he had, “Please, put your hand under my  thigh, and I will make you swear by The Lord, the God of Heaven, and the God of Earth, that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites among whom I dwell; but you shall go to my country and to my family, and take a wife for my son Isaac. As a reminder, Isaac is a representation of a promise fulfilled through Abraham and Sarah in their old age. (Genesis 21) and he is also confirmation of Abraham’s faith in God. (Genesis 22).

As the servant moved forward with the execution of the plan, he prayed Genesis 24:12-15 “O Lord God of my master Abraham, please give me success this day, and show kindness to my master Abraham. He asked for a sign that the young woman who would bring him and the camels water, that she would be the bride God appointed for his servant Isaac. If so, this would be confirmation that you have shown kindness to Abraham. And beloved it happened before he had finished speaking. Rebekah is introduced in the text as the daughter born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham’s brother. The Bible  says in verse 21, that the man was wondering at her remained silent so as to know whether the journey was prosperous or not. As you can clearly see, simple specific prayers to God breeds manifestation. Be careful that you are ready to receive the heavenly withdrawal because it can and will leave you in wonder as it happened for the servant.

Rebekah confirmed her identity and being the lady of grace that she is, served and the offered hospitality to the servant. The servant worshipped The Lord and lodged with Rebekah and her family overnight. He recounted the events to Rebekah’s family and the conversation he had with Abraham about fulfilling the oath. He told Abraham, that he didn’t believe that the lady would follow him back. Abraham assured his servant that The Lord with whom he walks will send his angel with his servant and prosper his way.  The servant needed to know that he could carry forth the assignment by running it through Rebekah’s brother Laban and her father Bethuel. The men both knew that The Lord had clearly spoken so they knew that there was nothing good or bad that they could say. The assignment had to be completed. Beloved, don’t be afraid to profess to the mountaintop of what you believe and know God has placed in your heart to carry forth. Nothing or no one can stop the Master’s plan! You may have family, friends, or foes that would attempt to hinder or assassinate your destiny but you have to press forward in boldness. Rebekah’s family loved her but she had to press forward because there was a blessing waiting for her on the other side of her norm. As we can clearly see in the text, her family attempted to assault her destiny and the servant requested not to hinder him because he knew The Lord had made his way prosperous and ultimately answered his prayer.

Beloved, persistence pays off! On the other side of he unknown awaits your blessing. Rebekah left what was her norm and what was comfortable. She simply said “I will go.” Genesis 24:58. She took the journey with Abraham’s servant back and upon arrival she met Isaac as he was in meditation. Rebekah asked the servant, who is the man walking in the field to meet us? The servant said it’s my master. She took a veil and covered herself. The text closes with the servant telling Isaac all he had done. Genesis 24:67 “Then Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah’s tent; and he took Rebekah and she became his wife and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death. What a beautiful picture of Christ love for his people!

Decide today to simply declare “I will go”. After all, those three words are a simple response to the call that you answer to the God ordained assignment on your life. It’s only then you will experience heaven on earth and reap eternal rewards! Get going there are people waiting for you!

Xoxo,
The Risen Warrior

© Mrs. Candace A. Stevens, and TalithaCumi+3 (2014). Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s/website’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Mrs. Candace A. Stevens and TalithaCumi+3 with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.