Tag Archives: God

Rebound and recover…

30 Saturday Mar 2019

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I’m writing this post from the place I visited exactly two years ago. The view remains spectacular with a few extra “nice to see” things and my life has done a complete 360 in every possible way.

For those who read this blog, you would recall the plan was to take a one year sabbatical and then allow life to unfold. Well, the one year sabbatical did happen, just not the way I had envisaged. And the year that followed was anything but a stroll in the park.

As I reflect on the last two years, I don’t believe I can adequately describe the intensity of the challenges that knocked on my door. But, what I do know with every fibre of confidence is that God remains faithful.

When I tell you that I had no idea life could two feet you (it’s a Sydenham saying) and bring you to your knees… it can. It’s not pretty and it’s certainly painful at the “best” of times. I was tried and tested from every possible position but had the grace to press on because I knew that God remains faithful.

I am also extremely blessed to have a solid group of faith-filled women and men to support me unconditionally. They know who they are and to respect their privacy I will not mention their names. But, there is one woman who I believe is a complete angel on earth and who took me under her wing and wiped my tears and prayed me through the most dire times – Aunty Karen Wallace. She is more than amazing. She certainly epitomises God’s love and compassion. And has without doubt secured a special place in my heart.

I’m all about being fearlessly authentic, and when I say there were times I felt like I could not go on, that every ounce of my strength was depleted and the will to live was running on empty, but between God and aunty Karen, I’m alive and energised to continue walking on purpose.

And so, if at any point you find yourself at a place where you feel hopeless.

A place where you feel completely lost.

A place you where feel like a drifting yacht on a rough sea.

A place where you feel like nothing makes sense anymore.

A place where you feel like your heart has been ripped apart.

A place where you feel like you don’t want to open your eyes to face another day.

Know this… God has a plan. God is in complete control. God has your back. He created YOU with a specific purpose and all He expects is unwavering faith and complete obedience (no matter what the circumstances). He does not need you and I to help Him unfold the plan He designed perfectly and with the right time-frames. Just place your hope and trust in Him.

There were many lessons I’ve jotted down over the last 24months, one of the more crucial ones was to pay attention to the people who are willing to stand in the ring and take the punches with you; those real people (not the fair-weather types) who hold your head up and keep you standing and smiling.

Most importantly, don’t fight the separation process. We know that some people are only meant to be in our lives for a reason, season and lifetime. Holding onto someone whose expiration date has come and gone will cause more chaos and distraction. Again, just trust God’s lead.

And finally, it’s perfectly fine to release (forgive) and love some people (family included) from a distance. Anything or anyone that threatens or obstructs your peace and Divine purpose has no place in your life.

If you are reading this post and find yourself in need of encouragement, allow me to suggest that you pour your heart out to God… be still enough to listen to His voice (yes, He still speaks) and hold onto your faith like never before.

And once you’ve allowed yourself to heal, stand up boldly and go out there and rise and thrive… because God can and will always be the anchor, compass and all-round Navigator you need at any given moment.

Love. Love. And more love coupled with equal portions of boundless faith, grace and mercy be yours this day and always!

When I look back…

28 Friday Dec 2018

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… I sigh a breath of relief because it’s only through God’s grace that I remain standing; and able to share this post.

If ever there was a year that showed me flames, it was 2018. I shall spare you the detail but if you remember anything from this post, know that whatever and whoever is sent to put a spoke in the wheels of your destiny, it will not succeed. I say this confidently because boy, oh, boy… did they come fast and furiously. And each attempt was thwarted and came to naught, thanks to the Hand of God over my life.

I cried a lot this year.
It was a combination of tears of joy and tears of sorrow; some I personally experienced and others I witnessed.

There were tears for the disappointment in the way some prospective projects folded.
There were tears for the disappointment in the way some people (including family) behaved.
There were tears for the disappointment in the way some people chose to defeat the ends of justice to save face instead of taking responsibility for their untoward choices/decisions.
There were tears for the disappointment in the way some associations dissolved before they even took off.
There were tears for the disappointment in the way some people used people as pawns in their game of life.
There were tears for the disappointment in the way some people choose to continue along the path of a dysfunctional façade knowing full well that these actions have a domino effect.

Some of the hardest tears were for the ties that I chose to sever in the name of self-preservation and peace of mind. Like my mentor pointed out, ‘Jesus did not resurrect Judas and neither should you’. And also, forgiveness does not equate to re-association.

So in all the tears, pain and disappointment, I’m most grateful for the fact that it brought me to my knees and made me draw closer to God. There was many a night I was face flat on the floor either crying out in prayer or having these heated debates with God trying to figure out the why. Until, one morning, He whispered “be still and trust Me”.

And when that penny dropped, the journey became more enjoyable and the revelations came about sooner and more clearly.

With the start of the New Year just days away, I continue to look ahead with great expectation, an open heart and confident that He that started a good work will make sure it manifests as and when it should.

As you embrace 2019:

May you honour yourself (and your space) and enforce the relevant boundaries.
Let your no be no and your yes, be yes.
May you walk in purpose and never compromise the work you are called to do, all for His glory.
May you never settle for anything less than you deserve.

More importantly, may your heart be filled with perfect peace, undiluted joy and gratitude for all things (big and small).

Love. Love. And more love to you and yours for 2019 and beyond…

Feelings and forgiveness…

29 Sunday Apr 2018

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We’ve all been in situations (with one or more people) where things went south rather quickly and some sort of disagreement results in a few bruised egos and frazzled feelings.

And normally such situations are not too difficult to handle if it involves strangers – and so forgiveness almost seems effortless. It’s those situations where someone very close – family, friend or folk from church – does something that makes no sense… and forgiveness takes on a whole new meaning.

Such times are designed to either send our emotions into overdrive, and or to rob us of our joy. And it’s usually in these moments, that it’s easy to think the unkindest thoughts about the person(s) who we believe has caused us pain.

Recently, I experienced something that made me feel like my world was tumbling down. And instinctively, I called a friend – because let’s face it – we like to vent before we fall on our knees.
And, it was after I ended that call, that I realised I didn’t have to call because I wasn’t alone… God is always right there with us… even in the height of the storm.

I also thought, as shattered as I was feeling, I’m not God and can’t possibly stand in judgement of any person.
Secondly, what does Luke 6:27, 28 tell us we ought to do when people hurt us:
“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

Emotions aside, putting scripture into practice is not a mission impossible. And why do I say this? Because I believe that our default settings are kindness and love and so if we choose them over the anger, bitterness and possibly even a grudge then embracing the concept of forgiveness becomes easier.

Take a moment to think… is there someone who has upset you, someone who you need to forgive and release?

Beloved, love covers a multitude of sins.
This day, let us choose to recommit our lives, our hearts and all that we are to walk in love and kindness…

While you are waiting…

27 Tuesday Feb 2018

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When I woke up yesterday, I had no idea how my day would pan out. Usually, there’s some sort of “plan”… so if I need to tweak it here and there, it can be done without any hassle.

But, I found myself driving to the beachfront. There’s been tons going on around me – some matters less complicated than others but still enough to rattle the free flow of this thing we call life.

It was only when I pulled up into a parking bay, that it dawned on me that I’m doing something so out of character. I smiled and reminded myself that I’m not a robot and so it’s okay that I get to choose to be present. That it’s okay that I do whatever it is that makes sense to me in that given moment. As long as I’m not inflicting hurt or pain on another, it’s perfectly fine.

It was a beautiful, balmy day in Durban and apart from the odd cyclist, jogger or couple on a walkabout, it was still. The kind of day that felt like it was ready to wrap its arms around my exhausted soul.

The smell of the ocean and soothing sounds of the waves made me feel like this specific piece of paradise was created just for me. I closed my eyes for a few minutes in pure gratitude. And through the salty tears, all I kept hearing was a gentle voice, whispering “be still and know that I am God”.

I smiled.
Blinked.
Looked around.
Smiled again.
In that moment, I knew what that meant.

It was in that moment that I found peace. Again.

Added to this was a fishing rod that I spotted. My eyes were fixed on that rod.
What was it about that fishing rod? It’s not like it was the first time I had ever seen a rod.

In that moment I realised that when we are in a waiting season – or transitional phase – it’s important to stay anchored to our true and Sovereign source of hope and life, God.

If you are reading this, and find yourself in an in-between phase in your life, I’d like to encourage you.

Don’t give up. Don’t you dare contemplate quitting. The tables will turn.

Stay true to your purpose.
Stay true to your core values.
Stay true to living in love and hope.
Stay true to the Rock of your salvation.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

2017 – manifest your greatness!

29 Thursday Dec 2016

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As we begin to take stock and prepare to apply a full stop to this year, I asked my brother Jarryd Kast to share some of his thoughts. I hope you will enjoy his post below as much as I did.

And from me, I hope you will always choose to rise and thrive in 2017. Be fearlessly authentic and embrace every moment life presents to you.

Thank you for taking to the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

 

From the desk of Jarryd Kast:

As I get ready to do a curtain call on what has been one of my most challenging years, I couldn’t help but take a ride down memory lane and reflect on some of the most unforgettable occurrences.

I, like so many others couldn’t be happier to see 2016 come to an end. This year has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, sadly with more lows than highs.

You know the saying, ‘You will be brought down to your knees’… Well, that happened to me. Literally!

Long story short, I decided to quit my job late last year (2015) and head back to the city where I was born and bred. The decision came about after months of internal deliberation. I had just had enough of the town’s laidback, country-styled living conditions. And not forgetting the residents’ backward mentality. I wasn’t prepared to live in South Africa’s pre 1994 era all over again.

I knew I had more to offer the world, so I manned up and jumped straight into the unknown.

Well, it probably wasn’t one of the wisest decisions I’ve made, because I struggled to find a job, and ended up suffering a spell of unemployment for over a year. I applied for numerous vacancies, got calls to say I was shortlisted, and pitched up for countless interviews. But for some strange reason, I just couldn’t successfully bag these jobs.

And to top it all off, my long-term relationship with my now ex-girlfriend came to an abrupt end.

Although I felt like my world was torn apart and turned upside down, deep down I knew it’s all happening for a reason. Don’t get me wrong. At the time, it felt like I was walking through hell’s corridors, but as they say – time heals.

Thankfully, that is all over, and today I’m working abroad – living, learning, surviving and thriving.

Getting back to my thoughts about the past twelve months…

I’m grateful for all the closed doors (some even slammed), for the failed relationships, and for those people who left me hanging when I needed them the most. I’m grateful for the people who we are supposed to regard as family, but who play no role whatsoever in our lives, for the folks who betrayed my trust, and for all the people who I’ve chosen to walk away from – because dang! Their toxic energy can really kill a person’s vibe.

Why am I grateful?

Because these are the people who were put into my life to teach me some of the biggest life lessons. Without their input, I wouldn’t have gained the strength, courage, boldness and wisdom I now have today.

Believe me, it isn’t easy to accept what’s happening at the time, but I’ve learnt that it is in these very moments when we let go of what’s not meant for us, that we then start to position ourselves in alignment with the blessings that God has waiting to pour down.

This year, I’ve had to say goodbye to many people in my life.

No, they didn’t physically die, but mentally they are dead to me.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve also learnt this year is cultivating your space and letting go of the toxicity which other people bring to the table. You have to surround yourself with people who share your values and ambitions. Not doing this will distract you from your goals and dreams, and lead you into thinking less of yourself. Don’t allow that to happen.

2016 also opened my eyes into seeing that the road to life can have many twisted curves. But I’ll always remain calm, because I’m continuously reassured of who’s controlling the wheel – God.

My own piece of advice I’m taking with me into the New Year:

Be wary of who you allow in your circle.

  • Protect your space. When you let the wrong people in, you may be setting yourself up for failure, and hence, you won’t be able reach the peak of your purpose.
  • Don’t attend people’s pity parties. Once you attend one, they’ll make sure your name is always on the guest list.
  • Don’t sit under people’s shade. Even if it seems like their trees have low-hanging fruit, trust me, there will be thorns on those branches.
  • Don’t become a slave to people’s mental abuse.
  • Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything or anyone that doesn’t influence you into becoming the best version of yourself.
  • Don’t sell yourself short, and don’t dim your light in order to make others shine.

I could go on and on, but duty calls.

2017 – Manifest your greatness!

 

 

No regrets, only lessons…

30 Wednesday Dec 2015

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Lessons I learnt in 2015…

Life happens and all you can do is be authentically YOU.

The truth, no matter how harsh or painful does indeed set one free.

Things like honesty, integrity and courage are rare traits but still alive (especially in the corporate world).

Circumstances, people’s opinions, and mistakes do not define YOU.

Clichéd as it sounds YOU are stronger and more resilient than any curveball that comes your way.

Having standards and refusing to settle is perfectly fine; YOU are the son or daughter of a King and deserve only the best.

Nothing is more liberating than breaking free from toxic, small-minded, negative Nancy/Neil types.

YOU have a direct line to God and YOU know what He says about your life, future. DON’T you dare (not for one minute) allow anyone to talk you out of changing direction or second guess what you know to be the Divine truth for your purpose driven life… keep your eyes and ears fixed to your Father’s voice, guidance.

The biggest lesson for me was accepting that I am more than enough; that the people who are meant to be and want to be in my life will stick like glue and others will disappear into the ether.

As you get ready to latch on to all that 2016 has in store, my prayer is that you will always choose: authenticity, love, kindness, empathy, peace. That your faith plus His grace and increased discernment will propel you to heights never imagined; and that your hearts desires will be fulfilled.

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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Living in the overflow…

29 Tuesday Dec 2015

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I woke up with this Word:
Job 22:27-28: Thou shalt make thy prayer unto him, and he shall hear thee, and thou shalt pay thy vows. Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways.

Dear Special Person,

If you think the favour, open doors and Divine connections you’ve experienced until now are something to sing about then you ain’t seen nothing yet.

Come 2016, the overflow will both humble and overwhelm you as you continue to walk in complete obedience, and choose to please God and God alone. His moves in your life will silence every single detractor; this time round you need not fight or utter a single word for He alone will vindicate you. What a comforting thought… TGBTG!

Get ready to experience His unconditional love in a way that you’ve never experienced. I don’t know about you, but, I’m super excited and can’t wait for new encounters and the numerous miracles.

I hope this song will keep your spirit smiling:

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxxx

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Destined to succeed 🙌

12 Saturday Dec 2015

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This week I learnt the true meaning of “be still and know that I am God”. How many times have you heard that line?

At face value it seems pretty self explanatory and simple. But, its not until you find yourself in the thick of a curveball that those simple words offer you a renewed sense of hope and confidence.

I continue to stand through His grace, that simple line and a praise marathon. I don’t know about you but nothing can soothe and lift your spirit like getting your praise on.

And so as I sit and type this post all I can say is though shots may be fired, if you choose to stand on His Word and let the music flow, you will come out victorious (no matter who tries their tricks).

These are the songs that kept me moving and I hope they will minister to you too:

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured xxx

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Purpose trumps pain!

30 Monday Nov 2015

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Happy Monday lovelies!

I’m super excited about sharing today’s post.
First, I’m going to start by saying to God be the glory, always.
When we truly surrender and allow the great I AM to take the lead, the results are completely humbling.

I had the honour of chatting to Author Lawanda Peters about her book Beauty for Ashes and couldn’t wait to upload it. This is what she had to say:

* When did you realise that you were going to write this book?
I realised I was going to write a book in 2000, when I was at my lowest. I’d lost *everything* I had – mentally (pretty much), financially, physically. I knew that someone else needed to hear my story; the abuse, failed marriages, rejection, self-esteem issues, etc. I wanted to be transparent and real with people, having seen so much in the church, the world, and family.

* How did the title come about?
The title of my book was given by the Holy Spirit. God spoke clearly to me as I cried out to Him one day; ‘why me’ and ‘how long will I go through this suffering’. And it was in that moment that He responded, “I’m giving you Beauty For Ashes. When you come out, you will not look like what you’ve gone through.”

* Tell us a bit more about this book…
Beauty For Ashes is part autobiography, and part encouragement and empowerment. I share my life in a very sensitive, but real way. As a girl from the South, I grew up on a 200 acre farm and we were a very close knit family. I witnessed abuse and alcoholism from an early age; processing what I know today as rejection or “black sheep” syndrome. All these experiences made me want to share so others could be delivered. In the book, I talk about how I endured physical as well as mental abuse and there’s also a part that explains how I almost lost my son at five months, due to abuse, I also talk about being homeless and going from having everything to losing it all. More importantly, you will see that it was through forgiveness and pure determination to press on and not lose hope that I am still able to stand. This book is more than just my life’s experiences – I share the Word that will help others break free and walk in their destiny.

* Is there a specific message that you would like readers to walk away with?
I would like for every reader to feel enlightened, empowered, and encouraged; knowing that it does not matter what comes your way, you are victorious, and you are an overcomer in Christ.

* Were there any surprising things or let’s say revelations while writing this book?
The revelations in writing this book were evident and very real. Everything I went through was first hand experiences. God has shown me many times that this book would reach millions and many would be delivered from abuse and so much more. He also showed me that it would be not only a book, but a play and a movie. I’m still standing on His word.

* What do you think makes this book different from others?
I would have to say it’s the authenticity! Many times we are taught not to be transparent (not to tell everything), but I was compelled to share in the rawest form ever. I had to let people know that just because you are where you are today, doesn’t mean you didn’t go through things or that you were perfect. He can take our mess and turn it into a message to bring healing to others. So the realness and transparency makes it different and captivating.

* Why should someone read it?
Because it’s not just me telling a story, it’s me sharing my life experiences. There’s no sugar coating, just truth… and this is what brings true healing and deliverance. So, if someone is dealing with, mental/physical abuse, rejection, low self-esteem, broken relationships, a failed marriage, homelessness, being on top and suddenly you’re at the bottom with nothing, asking what’s wrong with me?… after reading this both men and women will have a new outlook on things.

* Have you received feedback from readers?
I’ve received tons of messages from readers. I must say it has been overwhelming and humbling (thankful to God) to receive such powerful, motivating feedback. Many individuals were moved from the very first chapter. I was told by several readers, “Once I started reading your book, I couldn’t put it down.” And, I’ve cried with some, laughed with others, and celebrated with many. All glory belongs to our Father!

* Can we expect more books from you?
Yes, you can expect more books from me. I’m working on my Daily Inspirations book, which will have quotes to encourage and uplift you, daily. I’m also working on another book, Learning To Love You. I’m very excited about where God is taking me. I give him ALL glory, honor and praises.

* Any last thoughts you’d like to add…
I thank God, who truly directs and orders my steps, for all of the opportunities and doors that He has opened and is still opening. I thank you Woman of God for the opportunity, you are an angel sent from God to encourage, uplift and push others into their destiny.

Also, thank you to those who have purchased and supported Beauty For Ashes and LaWanda Peters Ministry. If you have not gotten a copy, please do, you will not be disappointed. It can be purchased at http://www.LaWandaPeters.com. Remember, your best is yet to come!

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous and favoured x

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Have you heard?

19 Thursday Nov 2015

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So it’s no secret that I love, love, love books.

Thanks to twitter I stumbled across a specific timeline that had a picture of a book entitled “You Can Hear God”; of course I wanted to know more and then connected with the author, Cristina Cain.
And what an amazing experience…

Have you ever met someone and it feels like you’ve known them your whole life?
You know the kind of person who’s genuine, kind, caring, God-fearing, calls a spade a spade, loving, polite human being… that is Cristina.

In today’s superficial world, it’s refreshing to meet someone truly authentic.
I caught up with Cristina earlier this week to find out more about her book and this is what she had to say:

·How did this book come about?
The book came about from a Supernatural experience I had in 2003…which I speak about in the book.
As I learned about my gifts, God said I would one day do the same for millions of lives, and so the prophecy is now being fulfilled.

·Tell me more about this book – an overview?
It’s about me sharing how I developed an attunement to the voice of God. Growing up with a special gift of prophecy, I later explored ways to incorporate this gift to heal and help others. On my journey, there were stumbling blocks and I share about how we can often be distracted by these (as we continue in our spiritual quest) and how they can thwart how we embrace God and our spiritual progress. My story is one of awareness, submission to God, and discerning how to use your God-given gifts to honor His name.

·Who should read this book?
I would say anyone who has ever desired to hear from God Himself, the churched and un-churched. I especially encourage those who seek out psychics, and mediums, these people hunger for TRUTH, and we know as believers that Jesus is the way, the TRUTH, and the Life. This book allows both beginner, and mature Christian to learn about the voice of God in a deeper meaningful way.

·Why should they read this book?
You will not have to make endless, unnecessary mistakes by being led of your own understanding. The Voice of God will have you choose the right spouse, career, friends, and lead you into a prosperous life that only he can offer. We have one opportunity to “get it right”. As believers in Christ Jesus, we know there’s no such notion, idea, as reincarnation, so hearing the voice of God will allow us to get it right the first time.

·How did your love of writing come about?
The joy of writing began as I studied Journalism and Broadcasting in college. I had an amazing Professor, a very well respected Poet, who encouraged the writer in me. He made the creative process and fine tuning the grammatical, a marriage. For me that simply made sense and I began to grasp it in a way I never did.

·What book or books have had the most influence on you or your writing style?
There’s not one book in particular. I love a book that I can identify with, and one that gets right to the point, easy to read. So in writing this book, God made it clear to keep it very simplistic, relatable and that’s what makes it enjoyable, yet powerful.

·Can we expect other books from you?
Yes more are on the way, just taking a much needed break. Truly writing takes every fibre of your being, and I’m trying to be replenished, still. I have no desire to put out books just for the sake of it; I must be prompted by the Holy Spirit.

·Any other final comments…
This is a great book, a tool for prophetic children, and for those with prophetic giftings. Also an interesting way to win souls for those who may never enter the four walls called church. Lastly, it’s a great stocking stuffer for Christmas.

P.S This book is available at Amazon, iBook, Barnes & Noble online and in Barnes & Noble stores in Orlando, FL.
For more information visit: http://www.cristinacain.com/store

Thank you for taking the time to read.

Stay fabulous & favoured x

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