tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91820652261847740512024-02-06T20:41:14.997-08:00Life as it is...Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-69135015813573709252019-04-22T17:50:00.002-07:002019-04-22T17:50:28.446-07:00The Struggle for Acceptance<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
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<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times";">I’ve spent a lot of days trying to prove myself. Trying to prove that I’m worth it. Trying to prove that I deserve to be loved. Trying to prove that I deserve to be noticed. But in my pursuit of acceptance, I’ve somehow managed to forget my God given identity. I’m constantly asking myself “Who am I?” or “Who does God want me to be?". More importantly, "Who does God want me to be connected to?" A lot of times I feel like I know the answer to these questions and other times not so much. I get attached to things I’m passionate about and people I care about. When I care about something, I give my very all. Why am I like this? I don’t know lol. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many would say that it’s good that I’m so passionate and caring but there are some days I don’t feel like it’s good at all. I often lose myself in the midst of trying to be there for others and trying to take on projects that are important to me. Sometimes it feels like I have no sense of balance. I give extensively but receive minimally. Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t purposefully do things so that I could receive anything back but I won’t lie. It would be nice to sometimes feel appreciated. I mean come on. Who doesn’t like to feel appreciated? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc;"><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);" /><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Now once again, my previous statement in no way diminishes the amazing people in my life who go out of their way to let me know that they are thinking of me and care about me. I wholeheartedly appreciate their efforts. But I think it all boils down to this. Where does this constant need for acceptance stem from and how can a person break free from this never ending cycle which seems to influence their motivation when doing things for others? </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Well for me it stems from fear. Fear of rejection. Fear of abandonment. I know God’s word says He has not given us a spirit of fear but of peace, love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). But peace.... sometimes I can’t feel it. Love....I don’t fully know how to yet. A sound mind...seems far off when all I can thin</span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: #cccccc; color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">k about is how to keep people around so I don’t feel so alone.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #cccccc;"><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);" /><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Trying to prove yourself is exhausting. Mentally and emotionally. And it’s no one’s fault but it surely is someone’s truth. The other night I said this simple prayer, “<i>Lord help me to be free from the need to be accepted</i>”. It was a tough one to pray because it means I’m acknowledging the fact that I desire to be accepted by others, which is socially frowned upon in a world where we are encouraged to be ourselves and not care about what anyone thinks. But I firmly believe that the first steps to complete healing is to acknowledge what’s truly going on.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);" /><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">So hi. My name is Akeila and I struggle with wanting to be accepted. What’s your struggle?</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-74206379492484543382019-01-21T09:49:00.000-08:002019-01-21T09:49:25.591-08:00Living with A Broken HeartLiving with a broken heart is not an easy task. Many times it feels as if there is no end to the heartache. It is like you can literally feel your heart aching with ever tear that you cry. Your eyes become a never ending well. It pours and pours telling the silent secrets of your heart. You wonder when everything will stop.<br />
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When will the pain end? </div>
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When will the tears stop falling? </div>
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When will life make sense again?</div>
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Truth is there are no clear cut answers to such questions. But there is One who has the answer. He actually has all the answers. He is the ultimate mender of broken hearts. Furthermore, He gives our brokenness purpose. He sings over us with His love and places His hand on our hearts. He sheds light on all the dark parts of our heart and He causes us to breathe again. He shows us that we can live even with a broken heart. </div>
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This has been my story. My personal revelation. </div>
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My heart may be broken but my pain is not in vain. I believe that He is healing what is broken, restoring what is lost and covering all that was exposed with his peace, love and grace. I can say with all confidence that I will be healed and whole once again. If He can do it for me, I know He can do it for you too. All we have to do is simply surrender. God's got it and I am glad He does. </div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-12995421603687550552019-01-21T09:20:00.004-08:002019-01-21T09:20:31.871-08:00The Name That Saved My Life<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In 2017, Todd Dulaney released a single called “Your Great Name”. The first time I heard the song, I had it on repeat. I would play it over and over again especially when it got to the bridge/vamp. It was a feel good song. It was another anthem in which we declared victory over the enemy and over whatever problem we might be facing. Of course the song became very popular and it was and continues to be sung in every church service lol. Although the song is a year old (almost two), its relevance and impact has not changed or diminished. I can only speak for myself when I say this but the song was no longer just a feel good anthem. It became my testimony. I’ve had to call on the name of Jesus a few times last year. More times that I can count. I've had some real moments last year in which I realized the only one that could help me was Jesus. There is a part of the song that says,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> “<i>Things change when we call you Jesus</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> Things change when we call your name</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> I’m free when I call you Jesus</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i> I’m free when I call your name</i>”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">These few words held so much weight. Every time I would hear them, tears would fall from my eyes. It was my hope in the midst of darkness. In the midst of brokenness. In the midst of confusion. It became words of comfort and strength. When a wave of depression would hit me and I lacked motivation to do anything, I would call on the name of Jesus. When doubts and insecurities became my constant companion, I called on the name of Jesus. When it felt like my heart would literally burst because of how much it hurt, I called on the name of Jesus. When I didn’t feel like singing anymore, I called on the name of Jesus. That name was and continues to be my place of refuge. As I continue on this journey, I know that the only way I can face each day and each passing moment is by calling on that precious name. </span></div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-84162367150688573912018-09-22T18:00:00.001-07:002018-09-24T07:47:49.846-07:00My Story of Surrender<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">At the beginning of the month,
people often like to declare what the month will be for them. For example, it
might be the month of new beginnings or a month of relaxation. Whatever it may
be, its usually up to us to decide. Earlier this month, I received an email
that said September is the month of surrender and it listed a bible verse for
each day of the month that focused on the theme. Then maybe two days later, I
read on a gospel artist's page that September is the month for storytelling.
Both themes resonated with me because for the past few months they have both
been on my heart and mind. I've been in a constant battle trying to daily
surrender some things to God and wondering how I could possibly tell my story
of brokenness to those who might need to hear it. How do I convey to others
that although I might be smiling on the outside, I'm really hurting on the
inside? Or how do i show them that my past history of abandonment and rejection
often times take the front seat in my heart? How do I let them know that I
struggle with forgiveness and that I honestly don't know what forgiveness is
supposed to look like when the very thing that hurt me is still staring me in
my face and sharing my space (emotionally and physically)? </span><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">See, I knew I had a story to
tell but I was unsure of how to tell it. I did not know if I wanted to let people into my place of personal struggle. I constantly asked myself how do I
surrender my fears and apprehensions and allow God to do his work? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">Maybe that's
just it. Maybe I simply need to surrender my story to God and allow him to help me
tell it because we know He is the best story teller of them all. He has a way
of bringing spoken (and even unspoken) words to life. He has a way of
turning every negative thing we have experienced into something that will work
for our good. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><i>Beauty from ashes</i>. </span></div>
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Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
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<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">So I've decided to start here.
Transparency is key. I choose to be transparent not because I want sympathy but
rather because I want destiny. I refuse to allow my struggles and weaknesses to
hold me back from who God wants and needs me to be. Its a fight. A daily one at
that. But I know I can't win if I don't stay in the fight. So I pray that as
God gives me wisdom on how to share my story that you will follow along and
witness my journey to healing. My journey to surrender. My journey to
wholeness. My journey to being a better version of who I am now. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-78298404835254306362018-05-10T15:07:00.000-07:002018-09-22T18:04:35.470-07:00Heart to Heart: Mission Africa '18<div style="font-family: 'helvetica neue'; line-height: normal;">
It's been two weeks since I’ve been back from Africa and I have been trying to put my experience into words. My experience this year was much different than last year. Last year, I went to Africa in the most broken state I think I’ve ever been in. Everything was falling a part at home and I just needed to get away. </div>
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<i>My soul needed rest. </i></div>
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<i>My heart needed a break. </i></div>
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<i>My mind needed to be renewed. </i></div>
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Throughout the entire trip God placed people in my path to speak life and healing over me. I left Africa with hope. I felt the healing process begin. </div>
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Fast Forward to this year’s trip. It wasn’t my original intent to go. I figured I needed to save money and I wanted to try one of the other mission trips. However, when the application became available, I felt this tug at my heart. I knew I needed to go back. I wasn’t sure why but I know God was telling me to go back. I applied by faith and I told God if its your will for me to go you will make a way. As I waited for the approval of my application, I prayed and asked God to show me my purpose for going back. I am at a point in my life that I don’t want to make a move unless its a God ordained move. Well anyway, one day during my devotion, God brought me to a specific verse. </div>
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<b>Luke 4:18</b> says “<b><i>The spirit of the Lord is upon me. For he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; heal the brokenhearted; to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind. To set at liberty those who are oppressed and to proclaim the year of the favor of the Lord.” </i></b></div>
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I have read this scripture before but this time around it stood out to me, specifically one part of the verse. “<strong><em>Heal the Brokenhearted</em></strong>”. In that moment I felt like God was revealing my purpose for going back. He was giving me my answer. I needed to go back and heal the broken hearted. Now don’t get me wrong. I am no where near capable of healing someone’s heart. Only God can do that. However, I knew I could be used as an instrument of healing. I am a living testimony that healing is possible even in the midst of brokenness. Just like multiple team members poured out their love on me, covered me in their prayers and gave me a warm embrace, I knew I now needed to be that same person for someone else on this trip. I needed to tell/show someone that its ok to be broken and that God could heal their pain. </div>
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Upon my arrival to Africa, I was still a bit unsure of what my purpose was for being there. I think I was unsure of what God had already spoken to me. Well God sure has a way of showing up and casting doubt to the side. Throughout the trip, God presented me with various opportunities to be an instrument of healing. Whether it was through song, hugging someone and just allowing them release what they were feeling through tears or sharing my testimony. Through each of these moments, God was reaffirming my purpose for being there and I thanked him for that. Im still thanking Him. I thanked Him that I am no longer mentally or emotionally in the same place I was in last year. I am on the road to healing and I wanted others to have the same hope that keeps me going. </div>
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Africa, you will forever have my heart. Every year you make me fall more in love with humanity and you show me that the love of God is so tangible. The people. The culture. The passion in which the people serve God. The whole experience is forever engrained in my heart. Thank you Mission Africa for once again changing my perception of what it means to be a missionary. </div>
Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-34966025450592322342017-12-30T16:16:00.002-08:002017-12-30T16:16:59.153-08:00LIVE<span id="docs-internal-guid-dae2cac8-a6fa-d71a-29e9-11c7f0897e12"></span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><b>Psalm 118:17:” I will not die but live and will proclaim what the Lord has done.”</b></i></span></div>
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<b id="docs-internal-guid-dae2cac8-a6fe-4f4f-b19f-5311bcbb9668" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At the beginning of 2017, I made a bold declaration. I decided that I was going to live. Live fearlessly. Live a life surrendered. You see coming into 2017, I was facing one of the biggest storms I’ve ever faced in my life. It shook me up and changed my entire world. But I decided that 2017 was going to be the year that I placed all my trust in God and I was going to LIVE while believing in his promises. I wasn’t going to be afraid nor was I going to worry about what’s next. I was just going to live. I was choosing to live knowing that all things, including this storm, would work together for my good. </span></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Was it always easy living out this declaration? Nope. If anything, it challenged me more than ever. Every time worry would try to settle in, every time fear tried to become my constant companion and bitterness tried to set up camp in my heart, I would remember my simple declaration, “<i>I will not die but live…</i>”</span></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My decision to LIVE in 2017 made way for some unforgettable experiences and life long lessons. One of the biggest lessons it taught me was that my brokenness was not a permanent destination but rather a temporary location. The pain that I felt day in and day out was only the effects of God stretching me and molding me into who He needed me to be for the next season of my life. I will admit, there were many times that my declaration became overshadowed by my pain. </span></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I thought to myself on countless occasions what could I possibly offer others when I’m all messed up on the inside? But what I came to realize is that some of my most powerful moments of ministry this year were birthed from my place of brokenness. I gave more. I loved more. I felt the pain of others. I trusted more. Although I was silently falling apart on the inside, I still felt like I was living my best life. Every time I obeyed the voice of the Lord despite how I felt, I was consciously choosing to live and not die. </span></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This year, God gave me the strength to live even when I felt like dying. He lifted me when I felt like giving up. He saw pass all of the anger and the “I don’t care” mask and saw deep down that there was just a girl who wanted to be loved even with all her scars. A girl who did not want to feel abandoned or rejected anymore. A girl who just wanted reassurance that everything would be fine and that her story would be different. A girl who needed his healing touch once more. </span></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2017 truly showed me that my pain has purpose. That I have a purpose. Because I made a conscious effort to believe in the promises God had spoken to me, I was able to experience His unfailing love and power in ways I never did before. I literally saw prayers answered right before my eyes. I visited 5 different countries and 6 different states in one year. God made ways out of no way. <b>Financially. Spiritually. Physically.</b> He performed miracles right before my eyes. I lost things (<b>literally... LOL</b>) and God restored them unto me. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://asset.holidaycardsapp.com/assets/card/newyear2018_33-b88f5d050e86e1a1d69d4d3b92333b15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="368" height="320" src="https://asset.holidaycardsapp.com/assets/card/newyear2018_33-b88f5d050e86e1a1d69d4d3b92333b15.png" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So 2017, Thank you for showing me who I am and what I am really made of. You challenged me, my mindset, and my way of doing things. You set me on the path to healing. I’ll never forget all that you’ve taught me. </span></span></div>
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<b id="docs-internal-guid-dae2cac8-a6fe-c9f0-533c-83a4076fee48" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To God: Thank you for holding my hand through the process. Thank you for never letting me go and for giving me the strength to LIVE so that I can declare what you have done in my life. Your unfailing love towards me and your relentless pursuit of my heart brings me so much joy. I know You have so much in store for 2018 and where you lead, I will follow <3</span></span></div>
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<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">To my friends and family (new and old): Thank you for every kind word you have spoken into my life this year. Your presence, words of encouragement and affirmation have been a healing balm for my soul. You made life a little easier to bear and a whole lot of fun. For that I am forever grateful.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Cheers to a new year! </span>Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-61490468850182911852017-10-10T19:55:00.001-07:002017-10-10T19:55:16.293-07:00Walk and Be Silent
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="envelope return"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="footnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="line number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="page number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
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<b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">"1</span></b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"> Now the gates of Jericho were securely barred because of
the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in. <b>2</b> Then the
LORD said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with
its king and its fighting men. <b>3</b> March around the city once
with all the armed men. Do this for six days. <b>4</b> Have seven
priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day,
march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. <b>5</b> When
you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a
loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up,
everyone straight in.” </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;">6</span></b><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia;"> So
Joshua son of Nun called the priests and said to them, “Take up the ark of the
covenant of the LORD and have seven priests carry trumpets in front of it.” <b>Joshua
6:1-6</b></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment--><div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e8/39/95/e83995fadc964b66f139364a2f8d52f0--christian-life-christian-quotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="310" data-original-width="236" src="https://i.pinimg.com/236x/e8/39/95/e83995fadc964b66f139364a2f8d52f0--christian-life-christian-quotes.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia;">The Lord gave Joshua specific instructions about
taking over the city of Jericho. He told them to march around the wall for
seven days. For six days they marched around the city once. But on the seventh
day, they were to walk around 7 times, the trumpet was to be blown, and they
were to give a loud shout. This would cause the wall to fall down.</span></div>
<div>
<div class="verse font-helvetica" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51) !important; cursor: pointer; display: inline; outline: none !important;">
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">In our lives we sometimes have a wall. The wall
could signify anything. It could signify sickness. It could signify
unhealthy relationships, a broken heart, lack of finances. Whatever it is, this
wall stands between us and our victory. Sometimes we walk around this wall
trying to decipher how we are going to get over, under or through it. We walk
around this wall in silence because we don’t know what to say or do to make it
come down. We pray and ask God for direction. We expect him to give us a
direct answer. However, sometimes he responds just like he did in this chapter.
He gives two directions. <b><i>Walk and Be silent</i></b>. He tells us to be
silent and trust in His plan. He tells us to continue walking understanding
that our victory is definitely on the other side because if we don’t walk we
will never get there. </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">Silence can either be a good or a bad thing.
Depends on how we look at it. It can be good in the sense of allowing us to
focus on God. It enables us to somehow see things a lot more clearer than we
would if we were talking and constantly moving. On the other hand, it can be a
bad thing because being silent means being left alone with our doubtful
thoughts. It means acknowledging that we don’t have all the answers to
our problems. It means we are not in control. </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">In this case, <b><i>silence was just a precursor
to the expected win.</i></b> </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">God already told Joshua that Jericho was theirs
for the taking, however he was requiring them to walk and be silent. People may
have looked at them funny but they had to keep on walking and be silent.
People may have been confused as to the purpose of their march but they
had to keep on walking and be silent. People may look at your situation and
wonder to themselves, how can she not be angry with God? How can he not be more
vocal about what he is going through? But through it all you must continue to
walk and be silent. Why?? Because in verse 16, it says that on the seventh day,
they walked around seven times, the trumpet let out a resounding blast, and
then the people SHOUTED!! When they shouted, the walls immediately came down.<b><i>
Immediately. </i></b>And they ran in to claim what the Lord had promised them.</span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: "Trebuchet MS";">You might have a wall that you are trying to
figure out how to break it down. However, maybe you are in a moment where God
is just requiring you to walk and be silent. You have to believe that
what’s waiting for you on the other side is much better than what you’re
currently going through. Your opportunity to shout might not come the next day
or the day after but believe that it is coming. When that opportunity
comes, shout with all that’s within you. Cry unto the Lord with a voice of
triumph and gratefulness. Thank him in advance for the promise that you are
about to receive. When that opportunity comes, “Shout! For the Lord has given
you the city.” </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Level 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-39230892174868670932016-07-28T15:41:00.000-07:002016-07-28T15:44:30.482-07:00What the World Needs Now...LOVE<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I have been wanting to write a new blog post for the longest while but I just could not seem to figure out what to write. The topics were endless but the words just would not seem to flow. However, last night during my personal alone time with God, the revelation came! The thought of vulnerability kept coming into my mind and for a while, my prayer became centered on it. No one (including myself) likes to be vulnerable! Why? Well, it is because people usually see vulnerability as a sign of weakness. To be vulnerable is to be uncertain and who likes to be uncertain?? Uncertainty means we do not have any control over our emotions or what is happening around us. I don't know about you but I like to feel in control of my emotions (even though i suck terribly at it lol).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Last night i realized something though. Vulnerability does not equal weakness but instead it equals access. Access to the heart of our King and to His unlimited grace! Many of us do not know how to be vulnerable with others because we have not allowed ourselves to be vulnerable with God. We feel that if He sees us for who we really are, that it will somehow lessen his view of us. We believe that He might love us a little less. However, it is totally the opposite. We can be ourselves with Him because He knows us completely. The more we open up to Him, the easier it will become to be vulnerable with others. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhCCAgMOM9PmX6mvYDlJm54M9r8NP4KZZVuUcie3m8wkxiEcuQ-K4bgIJVFyWpXtuq6GC7t6YTvJvpEafrw08umUUxZRol2YoXBKw2OGSSl4HVgi6b_GFmfHz6FQF1aEH2uUh2oWkIKVm/s1600/wnoZiOR3z4PKT_itc295WCykPNk91pFFIHKNBitHCpslxQJYfQwpKtzJnnu_B_tguwRZ-Lf-jbAT1aVQHcUjxv3N9nOVkYkFNkgJYzicxQEs5gzsBhhyDSLbQK77EGWRHOd6WyhJqzvITIP4og%253Ds0-d-e1-ft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhCCAgMOM9PmX6mvYDlJm54M9r8NP4KZZVuUcie3m8wkxiEcuQ-K4bgIJVFyWpXtuq6GC7t6YTvJvpEafrw08umUUxZRol2YoXBKw2OGSSl4HVgi6b_GFmfHz6FQF1aEH2uUh2oWkIKVm/s320/wnoZiOR3z4PKT_itc295WCykPNk91pFFIHKNBitHCpslxQJYfQwpKtzJnnu_B_tguwRZ-Lf-jbAT1aVQHcUjxv3N9nOVkYkFNkgJYzicxQEs5gzsBhhyDSLbQK77EGWRHOd6WyhJqzvITIP4og%253Ds0-d-e1-ft.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our world is in desperate need of love right now. <i>DESPERATE NEED</i>!! People are angry and hurting. Our world seems to be in complete chaos. But instead of showing love, hate is being placed on a pedastool. I think that people fail to show love because they don't know <i>HOW</i> to love. Broken people connect with other broken people and create..you guessed it right...more <u><b>BROKENESS</b></u>. Being broken sometimes seems easier than attempting to open our hearts to loving others and being loved. To love = being vulnerable and being vulnerable = being uncertain. And like I said before, <i>NO ONE</i> likes to feel uncertain of their feelings. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Think about it. When two people are dating and things become pretty
serious, there is always that lingering question of who will say the "L"
word first. No one wants to be the first to say it because they are
uncertain of whether or not the feelings will be reciprocated. The words
are left unsaid, leaving each person feeling uneasy as each day
passes and the feelings grow. See, as humans we tend to only give love if
we know it will be reciprocated. But what if we purposed in our hearts
to love others even if they didn't love us back? What if we decided to share
our hearts with others in hopes that they could see the genuine love
that only comes from God?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I believe that we all have it in us to love. Its a part of who we are. It is the very essence of our being. The Bible says that God is love (1 John 4:8) and if God dwells within us, then that means we have love. We have the capacity to love but it all starts with being vulnerable. It all starts with learning how to be vulnerable with the one who knows us best. If we allow God who <b>IS</b> love to teach us <b>HOW</b> to love, then sharing our hearts with others will become a whole lot easier. Each time you share a piece of your heart with others, you are sharing a piece of
God with them. So let's commit to being vulnerable. First with our Creator and then with others. I am personally challenging myself to be more vulnerable. Will you take the challenge with me?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here's to spreading
the love of Christ.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-34194401740795736172016-02-14T20:26:00.000-08:002016-02-14T20:26:59.470-08:00Unfailing Love: Leah's Encounter with the King<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> On Valentine's Day, I always like to reflect on the idea of love and what it looks and feels like to me. Somehow around this time, God always shows me through his word just how much He loves and cares for me. About a month ago, I was doing my daily devotional and I happened to read the story of Jacob, Rachel and Leah. Most people know the story of Jacob and Rachel, but not many focus on Leah. So i wanted to shed some light on Leah's story.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> The story begins in Genesis 29. Jacob was on his way to his family to look for a wife. He gets to the land where his family is supposed to reside and his eyes behold Rachel.
Jacob loved Rachel. He worked for seven years just so he could
have her as his wife. But at the end of the seven years, Laban gave him Leah
instead (<span>verse 21-23</span>). The Bible
describes Rachel as “<i>lovely in form and beautiful</i>”<span> </span>while they described Leah as having “<i>weak eyes</i>” (<span>verse 17</span>). Needless to say, Jacob was
not happy about it.
<span>Have you ever wanted
something so bad, worked for it and then at the end you didn’t get it or you got
it but it wasn’t what you expected?</span> Well that’s how Jacob felt. But i want
to take a look at how Leah felt.<span>
</span> </span></span><style>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> Leah was unloved and unwanted and everything in her environment
reinforced this truth. Her truth. She was living in the shadow of her sister’s
radiance.<span> </span>I could only imagine how
she must have felt. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Feeling
like you’re someone’s second option or like you’re not an option at all
can do something to you. It can break you down to your lowest point.
It can affect your feelings of self-worth. You can feel as if you’re
not good enough. It can leave you broken. However, the beautiful thing
about rejection is that God sees and He cares. The Bible says that He
will not despise a broken and contrite heart (Psalm 51:17). So God saw
Leah’s brokenness. He saw how the feeling of being unloved and unwanted
had blinded her from seeing how special she was to Him. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn1.theodysseyonline.com/files/2016/02/03/635901229056694012132699739_Love-vs-Logic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn1.theodysseyonline.com/files/2016/02/03/635901229056694012132699739_Love-vs-Logic.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">In order</span> to show Leah that He cared, he opened her womb and allowed
her to give birth (<span>v. 31</span>).The tables had somehow
turned.<span> </span>Leah had become the
favorite but in God’s eyes. At first, Leah looked at her children as a sure way
into her husband’s heart.<span> </span>She was
certain that having his children would boost her status in his eyes (<span>v 32</span>).
After giving birth to three sons, Jacob’s feelings <b><i>STILL</i></b>
did not change towards her.<span> </span><i><b>3
kids</b></i>! That is a lot of kids for your husband’s heart to not even turn slightly towards
you. For him to not even bat an
eyelash at you. Can’t even get a wink. Nothing. Shoot. My husband better love me after
1 kid lol but I digress. Let's get back to Leah.</span></span><style>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span></span> She then gave birth to a 4th son but this time something
changed. She said in verse 35, “<i><b>This time</b></i> I will praise the Lord.”<span> </span>What happened to change Leah’s mind?
Did Jacob finally love her the way she wanted him to? Nope. What changed is her
perception. Leah had a revelation. She finally realized that the love she was
looking for in Jacob and in her family, could only be found in God.<span> </span>God didn’t allow her to have children
so that Jacob could love her. It was so that she could understand His love for
her.<span> </span>Through her brokenness, God
placed something great within her. She not only gave birth to physical beings
but she also gave birth to something in the spiritual. She gave birth to the
manifestation of God’s love for her. And just as a child grows, it began to
grow inside of her. He not only opened her womb but he also opened her heart so
that she could experience <b>true</b> love.
Her eyes were finally opened to the love and acceptance her heart desperately longed for.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> We may have all had a Leah moment. Overlooked. Unloved.
Unwanted. Wondering when our turn to be the object of someone’s affection will
come around. Meanwhile God is sitting back and looking at the hurt that dwells
within us. He wants us to know that those feelings that we are feeling are not
what He feels for us.<span> </span>He loves us
so much more than our hearts and minds could ever know.<span> </span><span>Jeremiah
31:3 says, </span><b>I have loved you with an everlasting love. With my unfailing kindness, I
have drawn you to me</b>.<span>
</span>Often times, we want to be accepted when He has already accepted us and called us
friend. We want to be “down” with the cool kids, when He is calling us to go
higher! We want to be the object of someone’s affection when we’ve been the
center of His joy since we were created (Jeremiah 1:5).<span> </span>But somewhere along the way, someone or
something told us this was not true. Someone or something told us that we were
not good enough and that we will never be accepted.<span> </span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> So how do we get back to walking in God’s truth? The truth
about how He feels about us.<span> </span>The
truth that says true love can’t be found in things, friends or in “<i>bae</i>” because
those things are not a guarantee.<span>
</span>Things and people will come and go. But God is constant (Hebrews
13:8).<span> </span>He wants us to know that he
can take our hurt and brokenness and turn it around for our good (Romans
8:28).<span> </span>He will cause you to give
birth to something greater than you’ve ever imagined. The one who was rejected
will now be considered a great asset (<span>Acts
4:11</span>). The same friends who shunned you, will come to you needing your
help. You will find a better job than the one that turned you down. God will
present the one He has for you when the time is right. God will push you
forward all while revealing His love for you.<span> </span>You will go from walking in the shadows of defeat to walking
in the light of His love.</span></span></div>
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--> </style><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Rejection can be good for you. It may hurt
but God sees you. He has not forgotten about you or your needs. He loves you
and He is passionately pursuing you. (<b>1
John 4:16</b>). Let's stop seeking validation from others and walk in this truth.<span> </span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>xoxo</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>Akeila </span></span></span></span>
<br />
<div class="normal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><style>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-86413741146321869012015-12-31T13:30:00.000-08:002015-12-31T13:31:57.644-08:00So Long 2015...<style>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“In this new year, I
want God to lead me into unchartered territories that I may do His will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want Him to be with me through every
single moment of my life, good and bad. I want Him to save me from the things
that will lead me from Him</i>.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">”</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">January 1, 2015.</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was the prayer I wrote on the first day of this year.
At the time, I obviously did not know what the year would hold but somehow I
just knew that I would need God. I always need Him but this year I found myself
running to Him more than ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
did not understand the significance of what I was really asking of God when I
wrote this prayer. But He knew. He knew it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew the many frustrations I would face. He knew the
mistakes I would make.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew
every tear that would fall from my eyes. He knew there would be many sleepless
nights and internal battles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
knew I would need to be rescued from myself and that I would need a savior. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He just knew.</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As every year comes to a close, I reflect on the many
lessons that I have learned in that year. 2015 was a special year. It was
rather tough in comparison to the year I had last year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last year, short term and life long
dreams came true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My gift made
room for me among great people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, 2015 was different. 2015 was a year of waiting. A year of
trusting in the unknown. A year of heartache. A year of having faith even
though what was in front of me did not look promising. A year of
self-searching. A year of understanding who I am and reevaluating my purpose. But
even with the many tears I cried, there was an equal amount of laughter. And
even with the many days of waiting on the Lord with no answer in sight during
certain situations, there was a surplus of doors opened and prayers answered.
You see, although 2015 was a rough year for me, I don’t regret any of it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2015 taught me a few things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It taught me:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>How to trust.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>To have faith.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>To never settle.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>To see myself through the eyes of the one who
loves me completely.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I learned many things about myself this year. Some of those
things I will be taking into the New Year with me. Some will be left behind.
All in all, I am glad God knew exactly what I needed when I needed it. I am
glad he never took His hand off of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am glad that when He looked at me, He did not see what I was but
rather He saw what I could be. I am grateful that He was and is my Emmanuel, my
Messiah, and my Shepard. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am glad
that what I went through was only for a season. Next season there will be new
blessings, new challenges, new dreams and visions. I am ready for all that 2016
has to offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can and I will
walk into the New Year with confidence because I know that my savior will be
right with me just like he was this year and the years before that. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2015, so long and thank you for showing me my constant need
for a savior. My savior. Thank you for the incredible memories and for all that
you have taught me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2016, I welcome you with open arms and an open heart. I pray
this year will be one of growth and that the tears and prayers that were sowed
in 2015 would reap a harvest of joy in this new season. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cheers to the New Year!!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Akeila xoxo </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnS-eNIrJ9O12Byp6-I_6CTKACgLq6e27WgmGBus0KGM2O9YzWa6Pw-67lrolwnDiqOUoyYAhcsRtAGXswmF4wCloxyWJakHV4ZHmjaluuFDYMwGdcDOb-jbdIUFtSXuoWaduYeJD4pxi4/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnS-eNIrJ9O12Byp6-I_6CTKACgLq6e27WgmGBus0KGM2O9YzWa6Pw-67lrolwnDiqOUoyYAhcsRtAGXswmF4wCloxyWJakHV4ZHmjaluuFDYMwGdcDOb-jbdIUFtSXuoWaduYeJD4pxi4/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-72338573405148151582015-12-25T16:58:00.000-08:002015-12-25T16:58:27.248-08:00Grace Gift<style>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Christmas is finally here! This is by far my favorite time
of the year. The lights, the baking, the food family time, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always hate when Christmas comes and
goes because there will be no more lights, no more Christmas carols and no more
cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies (you now I live for these movies. Haha!!).
Christmas just brings such a warm feeling with it. And this year it was
LITERALLY warm but I digress…lol. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQt1vyKYcsxIvUsyeBcrrWwD1Dp8EyFAUk6QVct8q7k1XZGt4VNiSe2sZNDx3NHrHSPTptKr8gerLiTcpDf_micaBQWtj8NezbhQaLQJXHEl4YTHyguzBAM5Gg9HGUVJM47OPx3ARir3CU/s1600/1888705_10153307752986659_75845592982359884_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQt1vyKYcsxIvUsyeBcrrWwD1Dp8EyFAUk6QVct8q7k1XZGt4VNiSe2sZNDx3NHrHSPTptKr8gerLiTcpDf_micaBQWtj8NezbhQaLQJXHEl4YTHyguzBAM5Gg9HGUVJM47OPx3ARir3CU/s320/1888705_10153307752986659_75845592982359884_n.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
This morning as I read the story of Jesus’ birth, I had an
overwhelming revelation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luke 2 verse
32 says, “He is a light to the Gentiles…” Isaiah 9:6 tells us some of his many
names. Wonderful, Counselor, prince of peace, and the list is endless. So I
thought to myself, Jesus came down as a gift to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His birth, life, and death gave us the gift of grace and
salvation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A gift that keeps on
giving. A gift that even if opened today, it’s value never decreases as time
goes on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So even though tomorrow
is on it’s way and Christmas is out the door, His light still lives within
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Bible says that he is
Emmanuel, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">God with us</i>”. Therefore,
although Christmas may be over, He is still with us and His grace is covering
us every single day! And I am beyond grateful for this gift. So enjoy this
holiday season knowing that His gift lives within us! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Merry Christmas from my home to yours!!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Akeila, xoxo</div>
<span id="goog_1193788189"></span><span id="goog_1193788190"></span>Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-86012503721130495072015-11-09T16:46:00.001-08:002015-11-09T16:46:41.487-08:00Buried in Brokenness, Raised in Glory<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3c/a6/14/3ca6144b2fcbd4d208d2933442ad8f8c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3c/a6/14/3ca6144b2fcbd4d208d2933442ad8f8c.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
<style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
We all go through periods of our lives where sometimes our
situation becomes too much to bear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We come to a place where we feel as if we have nothing left to give and
no more fight left with in us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
ones we love hurt us and somehow loving others becomes more of a difficult
task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We realize that there are
pieces of us that are missing and that we desperately need to be fixed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We feel overwhelmed and buried in our
brokenness. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To be buried is to be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">submerged</i>
or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">engrossed</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At times, it is so easy to become engrossed
in our brokenness and lose sight of God’s hand upon our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We forget how to love and what it feels
like to be loved by our Creator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We question His ultimate plan for our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We lose all hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>Broken beyond repair</b></i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">A lie the devil has whispered in our ears and hearts time and time again. At one point, I allowed this lie to become my truth. </span>However, in time I learned that although we
may feel as if we are buried in our brokenness, God wants to raise us in His
glory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He wants to make every ugly
part of us into something so beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He is the only one who can make beauty from ashes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We must first realize that we are
broken and that our way of doing things is no longer effective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is <i><b>ALWAYS</b></i> intentional in what He
does/allows and His plans can never be shaken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Therefore no matter what we go through, it is all a part of
His plan. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>YES!!</b>, even your brokenness is a part of His plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God uses our brokenness to draw us
closer to Him and to help us to realize our undeniable need for Him in our
lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Right now you may feel as if you’re buried in brokenness,
but God wants to raise you in His glory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You might feel buried in your weakness, but God wants to raise you in
His strength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t run away from
your brokenness or ever feel as if you are broken beyond repair. Give Him
everything. <i>The hurt</i>. <i>The pain</i>. <i>The uncertainty</i>. Let Him make you whole again. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-59733924473407490732015-10-28T12:36:00.003-07:002015-10-28T18:09:43.273-07:00Four Seasons of Life<style>
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Today, I encountered the best smelling
soap ever!!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was called Bright
Autumn Day from Bath & Body works (small advertisement, haha).
You could literally smell ALL the scents of fall. As I savored the smell (yes
it smelled that good and I’m a weirdo lol), I got to thinking about all four seasons and how each season serves a purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fall is the season in which the leaves fall and the trees
become bare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a period of
transition. All dead leaves are falling off making way for new ones to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Winter, our coldest month, is the
season where everything is barren.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nothing is growing and it seems as if everything is at a stand
still.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then spring comes around
and slowly but surely, we see the little flowers and leaves budding, bringing about a fresh start. And
finally there is summer. One of the hottest seasons. Full of joy, vacations,
and FUN FUN FUN! Now that we are all caught up on what happens in each season
(you’re welcome lol), how does this connect to everyday life?</div>
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In life, we all go through
seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we are going through
the Fall season of our life, dead things are being stripped away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things that no longer serve a purpose
in our lives are taken away and never to be seen again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes we go through a season of
barrenness (Old man Winter), in which it seems as if nothing is happening for
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s cold. It’s painful and we cannot see past what is in front of us. During this season, there is a lot of
uncertainty and a lot of wondering when things will begin to turn around. But
then comes good ol’ spring, giving us a renewed sense of hope. All the preparation that took place during the winter begins to manifest itself in the form
of new dreams, visions and fresh beginnings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In spring, we continue to plant seeds and the storms of life
come around to water them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It helps us to grow in order for us to operate in our summer
season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Summer season is the best
season of all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this season, we
thrive like never before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We take
our newly, grown flowers and we share them with
everyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We take our
blessings, our lessons, our dreams and we share it with others in hopes that
they would be encouraged and inspired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
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Whatever season you might find
yourself in at this point in your life, just know that it serves a
purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things may not always go
the way you want them to go and the process may get hard during those fall and
winter seasons. However, there is joy in knowing that our spring and summer
seasons are a guarantee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God has
not promised us that everyday will be a great day but what He has promised is
that He will be with us wherever we go. He will never leave us or forsake us and we can always count on that. Therefore, that means He is walking with us
through every season of our lives. Let’s trust him and ask that He would help us to learn during these seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Furthermore, lets ask Him to show us
how we can encourage others through our seasonal transitions.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://blog.smartthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/four-seasons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.smartthings.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/four-seasons.jpg" height="219" width="320" /></a></div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-67891544528898110782015-02-13T15:58:00.002-08:002015-02-13T15:58:39.588-08:00The Greatest Love Story
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<span style="font-size: large;">As Valentine’s Day quickly approaches, we know that love is
on everyone’s mind.<span> </span>Everyone is
thinking of all the different ways they can display their deepest affection to
their significant others.<span> </span>Although
I always find myself single around this holiday, well actually more like all
year round ha!, I still love this holiday. I love LOVE. It’s that simple.<span> </span>I am a helpless romantic and I love
pouring out love on others.<span> </span>So
instead of moping around because I am single and won’t receive a single rose or
a box of chocolates, I choose to dwell on the greatest love story known to
man.<span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span></span>It’s
a story that has been told for generations however it’s a story very seldom
told on Valentine’s Day. I don’t know why.<span> </span>Reading and hearing this story only makes me want to love
and be loved.<span> </span>If you haven’t
guessed what story I am talking about as yet, I’m talking about Jesus dying for
us.<span> </span>Oh y’all thought I was talking
about “Bey & Jay”, or “Will & Jada”? Nope.<span> </span>I am talking about the King of Kings. The Lamb. Jesus.<span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He made himself human so that he could die for our sins in
order for us to have a chance at eternal life.<span> </span>“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten
son that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life”
(John 3:16).<span> </span>He knew that we
couldn’t save ourselves.<span> </span>We are
too sinful and so he became the ransom.<span>
</span>He decided to lay down his life so that we could have new life.<span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just picture it.<span>
</span>Jesus holding his cross.<span>
</span>Beaten... Bruised... Humiliated... Mocked.... Nails in his hands and feet.<span> </span>Through it all, he did not go back on
his promise.<span> </span>He knew He had to
fulfill His purpose.<span> </span>Now that’s
love. How many people do you know would give their life just to save yours?<span> </span>I’ll wait…….</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not to many huh?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many people search the world for love.<span> </span>They look for it in people, money,
possessions. I know because I used to be one of those people.<span> </span>At the end of the day, those things
don’t leave you fulfilled. Those things are fleeting. But not the love of
God.<span> </span>His love is different.<span> </span>It’s unchangeable. Unshakeable. It
never gives up on us. It’s faithful. Dependable. <span class="text1cor-13-7">It
always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres (1 Corinthians
13:7).<span> </span></span>His word says that
nothing can ever separate us from the love of Jesus (Romans 8:38).<span> </span>That’s the type of love I want.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So wherever you find yourself this weekend, whether you are
single or have a significant other, my hope is that you would think about this
love story.<span> </span>Anytime you don’t feel
loved, read this story over and over until you are reminded that you <b><i>ARE</i> </b>loved. Place your hand on
your heart.<span> </span>The very beat of your
heart should let you know that <span style="font-size: large;">H</span>e loved you enough to let you live another
day.<span> </span>HE LOVES YOU and no one can
ever take that away from you.<span> </span>This
is one love story I am glad to be apart of and in time you will be glad too! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Valentines Day <3</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">xoxo </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.personalityhacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/do-you-love-me_personalityhacker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.personalityhacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/do-you-love-me_personalityhacker.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-79479661583495749992014-08-12T17:01:00.001-07:002014-08-12T17:05:57.632-07:00The Lost Art of Intercession<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.reachingcampus.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/PrayerForYouth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.reachingcampus.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/PrayerForYouth.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Intercession is defined as “the act
of interceding; a prayer, petition, or entreaty in favor of another”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of us when we pray, we pray for
ourselves but we also pray for others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We pray for others to be healed, to be saved, and to be restored.
However, even in the midst of all this, we still experience so much devastation
around us. People are still dying. People are still taking their lives. People
still refuse to fully surrender their lives to God. It makes me think, are we praying
as fervently as we used to or have we lost the art of intercession? Have we
become so caught up in praying for ourselves that we forget to pray for the
needs of others? I know that I have been guilty of this plenty of times. I will
spend like 15 minutes asking God about things concerning my life and my family
and like five minutes on everyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, recently I have been feeling the need to pray more zealously for
others and I’m not just talking about those here in my home, church, and neighborhood.
I’m talking about praying for people all over the world. I even felt the need
to pray for celebrities. I don’t even know these people and they surely don’t
know me but I just feel the need to cover them in prayer daily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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In the Bible, I have noticed that
anytime something would go wrong or the people would sin against God, there was
always that one person who would go to God pleading for mercy on their behalf. We
can see that in the story of Moses (the book of Exodus), Hezekiah,(2 Kings)
Ezra, Nehemiah, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would be
so devastated by what was going on around them that it would cause them to pray
on the people’s behalf. They didn’t just say a two second prayer. Instead, the
bible says they would weep, mourn, and fast (Nehemiah 1:4-11).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all that has been going on in our
world as of lately, I feel this continual need to intercede on behalf of our
country/world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We may not see it
now, but our prayers are being heard. How many times have we seen sick people
healed instantly after the church gathered in prayer? Or how about when your
family member gets baptized after many years of running from the gift of grace
that patiently awaited them?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Prayers work. No one can ever try to tell me differently. The Bible even
says that the prayers of the righteous availeth much (James 5:16).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like how the New American Bible
Standard version puts it, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and
pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a
righteous man can accomplish much”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We can accomplish so much if we would restore the art of intercession. I
pray that we would all feel the need to pray for others because Lord knows our
world needs it. </div>
Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-56303000045318272652014-07-13T16:44:00.000-07:002014-07-13T16:44:23.891-07:00Fearfully & Wonderfully Made
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Today my pastor preached a sermon
entitled “Who told you?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He read
from Genesis 3:8-11 and Psalm 139:14.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Psalm 139:14 is a very well known psalm. “<span class="textps-139-14">I
will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy
works; and that my soul knoweth right well”. I have heard this verse many
times. I have had people say it to me and I have read it to myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But until today I don’t think I truly
grasped the full meaning of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
spoke on how the society of today tries to tell us what is acceptable. They try
to tell us how to look, what to wear, what to say and the list goes on. They
try to tell us that if we don’t have long hair, a skinny body, blue eyes, etc
that we are not deemed acceptable in their eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can seem pretty intimidating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As much as we know these standards are not the standards we
should live by, we sometimes find ourselves falling right in line with
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I for one am guilty. </span></div>
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<a href="http://jennawaters.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/tumblr_m46szsKwZ01qbatwqo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://jennawaters.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/tumblr_m46szsKwZ01qbatwqo1_1280.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="textps-139-14">Time
after time, I would compare myself to others. I have felt down about my
appearance. I have felt like I wasn’t pretty enough. I allowed people to make
me feel like I was not good enough. I would constantly be compared to my
cousins and sister because I was not as skinny as them and my hair wasn’t as
long as theirs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a while I
started believing these things about myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used to feel like no one would ever like me because my
hair is not super long and because I am not skinny. Some might think, girl you
are crazy for ever feeling that way. It’s easier said than done. I would have my
good days where I would feel super confident about myself but then there were
some days I truly despised looking in the mirror. I would cry and read Psalm
139 while trying to remind myself that I was made in the image of God.
Therefore none of these things could be true. However, that confidence and
assurance would only last but for so long until I went back into the same
routine of feeling down about myself.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="textps-139-14">As my
pastor spoke today, he kept asking this question, “Who told you? Who told
you?”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my spirit, I kept asking
myself this very same question. Who told me that I was not pretty enough
because my hair is not flowing in my back like rapunzel? Who told me that I
have to be a certain size and have a certain body shape to be found attractive?
Who told me? Well I guess the answer to that question is some family members,
the devil, but most importantly ME. I allowed what others were saying about me
to become my reality. I started to see what they were saying every time I
looked in a mirror. I began to feed myself these same lies. As my pastor
continued to preach and the tears rolled down my eyes, I could hear God saying
enough is enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When are you
going to believe that none of these things could ever be true because I have
made you in my image? When are you going to believe that what society thinks of
you is not what I think of you? When will you see yourself the way I see you? I
knelt down before Him and automatically began to thank Him for speaking to my
heart. Never again will I allow insecurities to consume me. It won’t be easy
but I will always put up a fight. I will continually hide this word in my
heart. Goodbye negativity. Goodbye insecurities. God made me this way for a
reason. Its either people take me as I am or they know where the exit is. </span></div>
<span class="textps-139-14"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Maybe you might find yourself struggling with
insecurities. When these insecurities arise, ask yourself “Who told me this is
true?” Remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Don’t just let it
be another scripture that you know how to quote but declare it over your
insecurities. May you be healed and made whole again. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="textps-139-14"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">~Akeila XoXo </span></span>
Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-82913396893212160952014-05-12T17:02:00.000-07:002014-05-12T17:02:11.503-07:00I Will Follow You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So Ive been on this journey of reading my Bible from the absolute beginning and what a journey it has been! Stories that have been told and preached about so many times all contain new revelation for me. I've been learning and most importantly growing. With that being said, I am currently in the book of Ruth. It is such a short book yet filled with so much depth and various life lessons. In the first chapter alone, there is so much going on. As we all know, Naomi loses her husband as well as her two sons. One of the sons were married to Ruth. Naomi decides it is time to travel back to her land and her two daughter-in-laws leave with her. However, while they are on their way, she tells them to go back. She has nothing to offer them anymore. She tells them that she doesn't have any more sons for them to marry, so whats the point of them going with her? The two girls cried and refused to leave. Naomi was persistent in her request for them to return back to their homes and to their god. Orpah finally gave in and returned home. However, Ruth was not budging. She refused to leave Naomi. She clung to her. Ruth was adamant about going with Naomi to this new unknown land and she was willing to give up the familiar to venture into unfamiliar territory. (<b><i>Ruth 1:16-17</i></b>). </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This blew me away. How many people do you know that would be willing to give up their life in one place to move to another where they knew no one and had nothing? Although Ruth knew she was about to embark on a journey that would change her life forever, she was willing to embrace it. She was determined to go. I think what amazed me even more was the fact that even after Naomi stated that she had nothing else to offer her, she still wanted to go with her. Some people would have said goodbye before the explanation. However, her response showed the depth of her heart and her love for Naomi.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">As we go through this thing we called life, we should be just like Ruth. We should always cling to God no matter what. He will always push us out of our comfort zone into unknown territory. We have to love Him enough to trust that His plan for our life is whats best. At the end of the day we have to really ask ourselves, if God had nothing to offer us, would we be willing to follow Him?</span></span>Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-928363756637773082014-04-27T18:47:00.002-07:002014-04-27T18:47:34.258-07:00The Sea of Doubt
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier;">As humans we all experience moments of
doubt. It's how we are set up. When bad things happen, we begin to doubt that
it will ever turn around for the better. As believers, we are taught that we
should give no place to doubt because we should never, EVER doubt God. We know
that He is faithful in fulfilling His promises and we know that nothing is
impossible for Him. However, no matter how hard we try, from time to time doubt
creeps in. It consumes us. It makes us question every thing that has happened
up until that exact moment that things are not going too well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've done the tango with doubt may of
times in my life and it's definitely not a good feeling. I'm sure it doesn't
make God feel good either because it means we doubt Him and his power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While we may have all experienced
this at some time or another, trust me you are not alone. There were even
people, great leaders in the Bible who doubted God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>One
specific story I want to touch on is in the book of Joshua. After the
Israelites shout down the walls of Jericho, The Lord gives them specific
instructions. He tells them that all the gold and fancy stuff (Chapter 6 v
18-19) were to be brought back as a sacrifice to Him. The Israelites were not
to take it for themselves. However, you know there always has to be that one
person who seems to miss the memo or in this case blatantly disobey the
instructions. The Lord helped them to cross over the Jordan River just like He did
when they were coming out of Egypt and crossing the Red Sea. Once they got to
the other side, He helped them to defeat their enemies. But once it was
discovered that the Lord's command was disobeyed, He departed from them. He
allowed their enemies to defeat them. Now Joshua began to feel so discouraged.
He was probably thinking, man God was just hanging with us. He was just helping
us to fight our enemies off. He was with us crossing the river. So where is He
now that our enemies have defeated us? </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In
that one moment, all Joshua felt was doubt. It didn't matter that God had helped
them defeat thousands of armies and conquer lands they never imagined they
would someday possess. Chapter 7:7 says that Joshua cried out. He even thought
it was better that they stayed on the other side of the Jordan River.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Bible says that sin separates us
from God, “</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">But your iniquities
have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so
that he will not hear</i>” <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Isaiah 59:2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier;">When we sin, we can feel as if God is no longer with us. We can feel as
if He is so far from us. It can also cause us to doubt. In that one moment that
we feel He is no longer there, we can doubt every single thing He has done for
us in the past. We forget how faithful He has been to us even though we haven't
always been faithful. We forget how He has guided our every footstep. It is
important for us to remember that even though we sin, God hasn't given up on us.
He loves the sinner but not the sin. His word says that if we ask for
forgiveness that He is just to forgive us<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1 John 1:9</b>). </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier;">Even though
we mess up and we might feel like He is no longer there, never doubt who God was
before you made that mistake. And never doubt who He is because He is still
there. He will always love us no matter what we do. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So
if you find yourself in one of these moments, don't allow yourself to be
swallowed by the sea of doubt. Trust in The Lord. He will always be faithful to
us. Just remember to walk in obedience and when you do that, there will be no
room for doubt because God will continually show up and show us how powerful He
is in our lives. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Courier; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt;"></span></div>
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Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-49720588977046116422014-01-02T20:11:00.000-08:002014-01-02T20:11:32.711-08:00Do NOT be Deceived"<i>Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.</i>" —Ephesians 5:6<span class="p"><br /></span> <br />
****************************************************************************<br />
Everyone knows the story of Adam and Eve. Eve was deceived by the serpent and in turn caused Adam to sin, leading to some severe consequences. If i had to describe Eve I would describe her as naive and lacking wisdom. She knew what was expected of her but was easily mislead. Why was she so easily deceived by the serpent? I think it is because what she saw in front of her looked so appealing. It looked delightful and it appeared as if it would give her the desires of her heart. She desired to acquire the wisdom that would only come by her eating the fruit (Genesis 3:6). <br />
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Eve can represent a lot of us young women today. We all desire something whether it is to be loved, pursued by someone, meet our future spouse, etc. However, when it seems like these desires are not being fulfilled quick enough or doubt begins to creep in, other things begin to look appealing. When the serpent appears before us with his alternative to our desires, all of a sudden what he is offering seems like the best and only option. We must be careful not to let the serpent deceive us because what he has to offer will only bring satisfaction but for a moment. In the end we will face consequences like Eve. That one moment of deception in the Garden not only caused her to suffer but also lead to the suffering of those around her. Be wise and trust in God. Be confident in knowing that He is withholding nothing from you. This is exactly where He wants you to be in this exact moment. Remember to always delight yourself in the Lord and <b>HE</b> (<i>not the serpent</i>) will give you the desires of your heart.<br />
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<br />Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-45813607611355322712013-12-16T21:43:00.002-08:002013-12-16T21:44:15.305-08:00How Deep is Your Comittment?Hebrews 11. This chapter is well known for certain verses such as, "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen" and "Without faith it is impossible to please God". However, tonight I decided to dig deeper and I read through the whole chapter and boy, was I amazed by what I read.<br />
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This chapter names some very influential people in the Bible who exhibited some crazy faith. Among those named were Noah, Moses, Abraham, Rahab, and the list goes on. Many of these same people endured some harsh/trying times while keeping their faith and being obedient to God. They were beaten, made fun of, placed in prison and even put to death. However through it all they remained faithful. The part that really blew me away was v 39, "These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised...". I know what you are thinking. You mean to tell me they went through ALL of that and did not even receive the promise? Some might say, Oh heck no. I'm not about that life. However, their actions are truly commendable. How so you may ask. Well, as it states they did not receive the promise <b>BUT</b> they died fighting for others to receive the promise. They did not grow weary in well doing. They remained faithful to One who promised.<br />
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Just because they did not receive what was promised does not mean they did not see the hand of God at work in their lives. Verse 33-35 says, "...<span class="text Heb-11-33" id="en-NIV-30206"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions,</span> <span class="text Heb-11-34" id="en-NIV-30207"><sup class="versenum">34 </sup>quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies.</span> <span class="text Heb-11-35" id="en-NIV-30208"><sup class="versenum">35 </sup>Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection". This clearly shows us that the power of God can be manifested if only we are obedient to His will for our lives. When we demonstrate that we have an unshakeable faith in God, He in turn shows up and rewards us. I'm sure this all propelled them to be even more faithful. They were committed to God. We have to ask ourselves that question. How deep is our commitment towards Christ? Would we obey His command if we knew we would not inherit what was promised at the end? Would we give up in the midst of it all because it seems like the promise is never going to come? Today I encourage you to obey and have faith like these courageous men and women mentioned in this chapter and throughout the whole Bible. Keep pressing forward remembering that He who promised is faithful. </span>Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-59325448108258500432013-12-08T18:05:00.001-08:002013-12-08T18:05:56.186-08:00Clothe Yourself<i>"<span class="text Col-3-12" id="en-NIV-29530"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.</span> <span class="text Col-3-13" id="en-NIV-29531"><sup class="versenum">13 </sup>Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.</span> </i><span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532"><i><sup class="versenum">14 </sup>And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."</i>— <b>Colossians 3:12-14</b></span><br />
<span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532">****************~************~***********~**********~********~*******~****</span><br />
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<span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532">This portion of scripture </span><span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532">talks about how we as believers should behave among each other. Some of
the characteristics mentioned were humility, compassion, acceptance, forgiveness,
etc. It is important that we show each other all of these things and
more because we are the example for those outside the four walls of the
church. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532">If we have no compassion for each other how can we show it to
those who really need it? </span><br />
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<span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532">If we can't forgive our brother or sister for
something they may have done to us, how can we preach forgiveness to the
visitors?</span><br />
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<span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532">If we are not accepting of the flaws of our fellow brothers
and sisters how can we accept and embrace the flaws of those coming in searching for
something more??<br />
<br />
If we can't display humility among those who have seen our
transformation from what we were to what we are now, how could we
possibly demonstrate to visitors that it's a humble and broken heart
that God looks for and desires to make whole again?<br />
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Portraying these characteristics amongst the church folk (or among anyone for that matter) may be
difficult sometimes. But as Paul says in verse 17, we must strive to remember that <b>ALL</b> we do is unto God.</span><br />
<span class="text Col-3-14" id="en-NIV-29532"><br />
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<br />Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-47339954452665065522013-11-13T17:48:00.000-08:002013-11-13T17:48:11.462-08:00Suffering with a Purpose
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In our Christian walk and in life, we go through trials
that bring us such pain and sorrow. These trials can come in the form of family
members “stabbing” you in the back, vicious rumors being spread about you,
false accusations from people you thought were for you, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We sometimes sit back and wonder, “How
could God allow me to go through this? How could he allow me to hurt so much?”
Well whenever I find myself asking these questions, I think of God and how He
suffered that we might live.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
was talked about, rumors were spread about Him and even worst, he was beaten
and nailed to the cross to die for our sins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After thinking about this, our suffering does not seem that
bad after all, huh? The problem is that we do not look at our suffering from
God’s point of view.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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From our
point of view, all we can see is pain, hurt, and sorrow, however from God’s
point of view, there is a purpose behind our suffering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 Peter 2:20-21 says, “…But if you
suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To
this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example,
that you should follow in His steps”. You may wonder how can suffering be a
good thing? Well this verse explains it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It all depends on what you are suffering for. If you are
suffering for spreading the gospel but people reject you, its ok. If you are
suffering for telling someone the truth after they asked for your advice but
instead they turn around and make you the villain, it’s ok.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suffering for good is what God likes to
see.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is what we are called to
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He set the example for us when
He died for our sins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He suffered
all the things we suffer today but probably a million times worst. I can’t even
begin to fathom being nailed to a cross to die for people who do not care about
me and what I have to say. Honestly, I would probably say, “Whatever, Where ever
they end up is their business”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thank you Jesus for not taking on that mentality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He instead endured the suffering so
that we could receive grace and salvation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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When we suffer, there is always a
purpose. If your vision is to see the kingdom of God expand with people who
have received the gospel, then you must endure some pain. You must suffer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In expansion there is pain but you must
endure this pain in order to birth the promise that God has for you. The great
thing about suffering with Christ is that you are ALWAYS victorious at the
end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter how bad it may
seem, you will always have the victory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As the verse says God set the example. He was victorious in the end.
People thought that that was the end of Him when He drew His last breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure many threw a party (ok maybe
I’m not sure). One thing I am sure about is that after enduring the pain and
the suffering, He rose again with power and shut the mouths of all who did not
want to believe. Just as Jesus was victorious, we will also be victorious. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So the next time you are down and
wondering why you are suffering so much in the midst of trying to do well,
remember that you are suffering with a purpose and that the reward in the end
will be greater than what you went through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-45051200560478236722012-03-16T12:33:00.000-07:002012-03-16T12:33:27.115-07:00Patience is a Virtue"Patience is a virtue". This is a common proverbial saying. However sometimes I feel like we don't always completely understand the meaning of it. To be patient, to wait for something is sometimes the hardest thing to do. Trust me I know! I want to dedicate this post to all the young ladies out there. Here is why.<br />
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As young women, we all long to be desired, sought after, loved, etc. We all desire to meet our prince charming one day and be swept off our feet. Some may say this is a fantasy that may never come true but its real. All we have to do is wait for it. The waiting part is hard though. Many times, we tend to give our hearts away so quickly because we don't want to be alone or we can't stand to see all of our friends in relationships while we sit back and are by ourselves. I have felt this way time and time again. Every where I go, I am always the only single one. At first this bothered me so much. I kept thinking whats wrong with me and why oh why am I constantly placed with people who are in relationships. I thought to myself is this some kind of joke? But a joke it was not. It was reality. I had to learn to deal with it.<br />
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Waiting is so important. When we wait on God, He gives us the very best. With God, there is no mediocrity. He knows what we need and He promises to give it to us when the time is right. However, when we decide to take matters into our own hands, thats when problems occur and problems are not always good. Here are two different examples of how important waiitng is and the good/bad consequences it can bear. <br />
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First Example: Sarah and Abraham. Sarah and Abraham wanted a child. They were getting older and still no child. Well Sarah decided she didn't want to wait on the Lord anymore and took matters into her own hands. She told Abraham to have relations with Hagar, their slave and impregnate her. When she was pregnant and had the baby, they would take the baby as their own. So Abraham did it and Hagar became pregnant however the baby was not Sarah's for the claiming. She still had to wait for her own child. If Sarah would of just waited and continued to trust in God's promise, maybe he would have given her a baby sooner but that wasn't the case.<br />
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Second Example: David and Saul. David was already told by God that he was appointed to be the next king after Saul. David didn't live a life of riches and things of that nature. He lived a somewhat simple life. Anyone in their right mind who knew they were supposed to be king and wanted to leave their "simple" life to live a better one would have probably tried everything in the book to get rid of Saul. Not David. Saul constantly tried to attack David and David rarely fought back. When he was in the cave with his men and Saul walked in, his men told him this is your chance. Kill Saul. David cut off a piece of Saul's robe but afterwards he felt guilty and presented himself before Saul, humbling himself. He apologized and told Saul that no matter what he tried to do to him, he would never touch the Lord's annointed. David had so many chances to get rid of Saul and take his rightful place as King but he was secure in the promise that God made to him and he wasn't going to take matters into his own hands. He knew that it was already done. He decided to wait because he knew it was already his.<br />
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So here we have two different stories with two different outcomes. The difference between Sarah and David is that David trusted in God's promise. In order to truly wait on the Lord, we have to trust Him. Ahhh, trust! It's a hard thing to do and sometimes a hard concept to understand. But it is key when waiting on the Lord. If we trust in the Lord, we wont ever have to settle for any ol' guy that comes along. We wouldn't be easily deceived by the wolves in sheep clothing. We would be secure in the promises that God has made towards us! Im waiting because I know that when my time comes, it will be something I never ever imagined and I will say to myself, "I am glad I waited. It was so worth it". <br />
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If you're struggling with waiting on the Lord, not just for relationships but for anything in your life, just trust and believe that God will show up and deliver just as He has promised. <br />
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"Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Prov 3:5Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-21547609006212035172012-03-16T11:25:00.001-07:002012-03-16T11:25:12.925-07:00Finding your PurposeI haven't wrote a blog post in such a long time. School has picked up speed over in the DR and i haven't even had enough time to write. During these past few weeks so much has happened. I have been learning so much at school as well is in my spiritual life. God has really been opening up my eyes little by little and showing me what my purpose is here on this earth. <br />
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Two weeks ago, I was watching a service online and the pastor that was preaching said something very interesting. He said, "We find our purpose in the context of the time we spend in relationship with others". When i thought about it, i said to myself this is so true. I aspire to be a child/school psychologist once I am finished with school and that means I would spend most of my days counseling which is what I love to do. However, with the classes I have to take at school and how difficult they are at times, I sometimes second guess if I made the right career choice.<br />
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I started thinking maybe I should have looked into another career choice because taking psychology at my school just felt like a headache. I knew that it was something I wanted to do but I just felt like if you are doing something you like/love, you shouldn't struggle as much. I began to feel like I wasted 3 years of my life chasing a dream/aspiration that maybe wasn't worth it. Well this past week changed my whole perspective.<br />
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After expressing my feelings of frustration and doubt, I asked God to show me what I should do, where I should I go. I asked Him to show me what is it that He wanted me to do. I asked Him to confirm His purpose/will in my life. Well you know they say if you ask, it shall be given unto you. In this past week, I have been able to talk to some of my few friends and help them out with some issues they were experiencing. I always say that I am so glad that my friends feel like they can confide in me with their problems. After having like 3 different conversations all in which I had to give counseling, a light bulb went off in my head and the quote from the pastor came back to my mind. <br />
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I realized that one of my purposes here on earth is to give counsel to those who are in need of counseling. The reason why I continue to struggle through my psychology classes is because counseling is what He has called me to do. The more i spend time in relationships with others, I realize it more and more. I was blinded for awhile by my struggles and I started to doubt what God had in store for me. But that's the amazing thing about GOD. When we doubt that He will do what he promised us, HE shows up and shows us He can!<br />
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So if you ever doubt your purpose here on Earth, continue seeking God and asking Him to show you because sometimes its been there all along but you were blinded by the obstacles that stood in front of you. Keep asking and He will reveal it unto you.! Be blessed. xoxo<br />
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<br />Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9182065226184774051.post-30357080609104190452012-02-14T10:59:00.000-08:002012-02-14T10:59:35.184-08:00What Does it Mean to be an Icon?This weekend after hearing about the passing of Whitney Houston, it had me thinking a lot. I could not believe that <b>the</b> Whitney Houston was gone. I loved so many of her songs. So many people were talking about how much of an impact she had on their lives and how her songs touched their hearts. She was an icon. Her death made me really think about my ministry of singing. She became an icon through her beatiful singing, angelic voice and fame but what did it cost her to become that icon? If Whitney Houston could have such an impact on people through secular music, why can't I have such an impact through my singing on people who need to hear about the love of Christ? God blessed me with such a beautiful voice and everyday I thank Him for it. Every opportunity I receive to minister, I take it because its another chance to touch someone's life. It's another chance to minster to at least one person who might have a broken heart or someone who needs to feel the love of God more than ever before. I want God's annointing to be so heavy over my life so that everytime that I sing a song, people will be able to feel how i feel about God. I want to be known and remembered but not for my own selfish purposes. I don't want to be famous but I want to people to remember me for how I loved the Lord and how I demonstrated it through my singing.<br />
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Last week I was also reading <b>Genesis 49 </b>in which Jacob spoke to his sons describing the characteristics he saw in each of them. Some were good and some were not so good. However, he only called it like he saw it. Their actions throughout their whole life determined how their father described them later in life. God has given me a gift and I want to use it for His honor and glory. Never to glorify myself. Humility is one characteristic I ask of him each and every day. I live to serve Him and I want to spread His word through my ministry of music/singing. So what will you today to ensure that you leave a great mark here on earth? How will you be remembered?Akeila Benjaminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13478374749034692499noreply@blogger.com0