Sunday, September 1, 2013

September Study !!

This month 7 ladies has committed to a specific day of the week to share a scripture, devotional or reflection. By doing this each of us will only be responsible for that one day of the week throughout the moth (which totals like 4 posts each). I know we are all busy-back in school, work, etc... But whatever we decide lets stick to it. We've got to uplift and keep each other encouraged. I will try my best to post the things the ladies share on here. I know it can be very uplifting and encouraging so, I will see how I can fit 30 days of devotionals onto our blog. 

With all love, 
Ladies of Virtue 

Saturday, August 17, 2013

It's FINALLY HERE.. THE CALL WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR !!!

Hello LOV!
 
There have been MANY inquiries about doing a conference call, so with the assistance of Bel, we have come up with a few suggestions.
 
Timeframe: While many of you wish to do this conference call on a weekly basis, there are many whose schedule will not allow this to be. There is the option of listening to a playback of the call, yet this impedes them from responding and giving their input. Also, to be considerate of everyone’s obligations and responsibilities, I would suggest keeping the call to an hour. Now, here me well, J after we hold prayer, and answer the questions for that session, we can stay on the line until the next morning! I just want to ensure that anyone calling in will receive what answer she is looking for.
 
Organization: To ensure that each call stays in the direction that we intend, we decided that we should, at the beginning of the month, establish the days, times, and topic of the call(s). We know we can talk!! J This would somewhat guarantee that all prayer requests are acknowledged and prayed over and that questions will be answered. *We can opt to have an open discussion night at the end of the month as well.
 
Leaders: Amber has agreed to lead the first discussion/prayer call. ALL of you ladies are welcome to have a chance!! We can create a schedule and everyone decide when they want to take the lead. (just be sure to stick to your day)
 
Submission: I feel that emailing your prayer requests and questions to one email address will limit duplication and save time. I have volunteered to receive the emails, compile a list of requests and/or questions, and then forward them to the person in charge of leading the call that week. (if anyone wants this task, don’t hesitate to let me know). Once we decide on a day and time for the call, we will establish when emails should be submitted to me, and when I will have them to the person who’s leading. In addition to keeping the call within a descent timeframe, on the question and answer calls, we should limit the number of questions we answer, because I’m sure we will go IN on the responses J
 
If you have any other suggestions, please let me know. Your input is VALUABLE! If you feel that this will work, please visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3NHST96 and take a 5-question survey so that we have a definite framework for our conference calls.

For the call taking place on Sunday, August 18th at 7:00pm EST, it can be an open discussion, just so we can test out the system and make sure everyone is able to connect. After we chat and enjoy discussion, we can have a closing prayer. 

Conference Dial-in #: (712) 432-1500 
Access Code: 569072#
 
Yours in LOVe,
 
La-Keisha & Bel

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Final Day: Stability


Psalm 93:2
Your throne is established from of old; you are from everlasting.
1 Corinthians 16:13
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear brothers & sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Hebrews 10:32
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who is promised is faithful

Our God is stable and constant-He never changes, and unlike us, He doesn't compromise or change His values. He cannot be manipulated or persuaded to go against His Word. Despite our inconsistencies  the power for spiritual stability is ours in Christ! We must allow him to control our lives; we do this by being knowledgeable of his will for our lives.
God's plan existed at the beginning of creation and remains the same today. The word says that many of us are “carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming” (Eph. 4:14). And you have those that are driven by their emotions rather than sound thinking. Lets not be these people-running every which way, looking for what sounds right and run to what IS right.

Prayer 

Hey ladies! Hope everyone is well. I'm gonna be posting the prayer a little early tonight, as I am about to go into church. First of all, I want to say from the bottom of my heart I appreciate your commitment to the 7 days of prayer. ! I know it was a sacrifice for all of us, but we DID it! I am grateful that you trusted the assignment and joined in to make it happen. I pray God’s blessings, healing, peace and favor upon each of you! Father, we come before you tonight with praise and thanksgiving! You are a mighty God, and we live to make your name great! Tonight my LOV sisters and myself come to you tonight asking for stability in every area of our lives. We are women who are maturing and desire to be emotionally, financially, mentally stable. You are a God who changes not, and one we can depend on. Lord, we apologize for being inconsistent and unstable. Make us over into the complete women you are calling for. Women of integrity, women of prayer, women who are confident in who we are in you. We cancel any assignment of the enemy to have us become emotional wrecks. We will not succumb to or be destroyed by his tactics. But instead, we will be controlled by the truth of Christ. We walk in the full knowledge of Christ. I thank you that we are complete, whole, sound and stable women. Knowing that our Father is a strong tower and the solid rock.


Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Day Six: Finances


Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.



Psalm 112:3 (NIV)
Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.



Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.


Financial struggles are one of the many challenges we will ever face. In the midst of them, our faith can become weakened, & we become overwhelmed by the desire to take the burden solely upon ourselves. This should be the moment to put our FULL trust in God; placing full confidence in Him, believing that He will intervene to meet our needs.It doesn't matter if we're "rolling in the dough" or, "robbing Peter to pay Paul," as they say, never forget that it is God who is our source & it is God who supplies our every need.  He is Jehovah Jireh, the one who provides. God knows & understands the basic necessities of life like food, shelter and clothing. And he tells us in Matthew that if we seek Him,his kingdom &his righteousness, he's  going to take care of our necessities of life.While God is busy taking care of our needs, lets be sure to do our parts by being better stewards & faithful in managing what he has given us. 

Prayer: 

Father, tonight I thank you once again for a chance to come in your presence. I seek you tonight for blessings over the finances of my LOV sisters and myself. You know exactly where each of us are financially and I pray that whatever we have is multiplied many times over. I declare that we will not only have finances to meet our day-to-day needs, but an abundance so that we are able to bless those around us, and all over the world.We want to make spiritual deposits as well. Lord, all we have comes from you and is yours Father. May we be faithful in managing what you have given to us. God, help us straighten out any financial problems that we have and forgive us if We haven’t been good stewards of our money. Give us a new attitude and a new commitment to managing our finances wisely and responsibly. Lord, for those of us who see no way out of financial bondage, show us your way to freedom. We place this need before You, confident in your power! We leave these worries in your hands. Thank you for financial freedom, discipline and abundance! Amen. You are a detailed oriented God Father and you care about our finances. I pray we all we cast our financial worries and woes at the altar of mercy and remember that you are our provider. Give us the tools and wisdom to be better stewards of all the resources you have given us. Let us be grateful for what you have given us and praise you for the blessings to come. We ask that you break the yolk of all bad spending habits and any other habits that hinder us from spending and saving wisely. In you name we pray and ask all these things Amen!Father we thank you for today, Father you say every good thing comes from you Father guide us In our finances,how to spend, teach us how to manage our bills, we cancel our school loans lord!!!!! Lord I bide whatever it is that prevents us from being Financial stability, we don't want to live pay check to pay check.God we are blessed to live the way we live. You always come through when we are in need. Lord i pray we will be grateful with all that you bless us with. Teach us how to spend well, teach us how to tithe and bless others with what you've given us. I thank you for debt free living for all these ladies. I thank you for blessing their needs. You are our Provider, and we ask you to allow us to trust You in all finances and bills. Show us how to manage our money. In Jesus Name, amen.

Monday, August 5, 2013

Day Five : Healing -- Health (Physical, Mental, Spiritual)



3 John 1:2

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Do you not know that your body is the temple (the very sanctuary) of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God? You are not your own You were bought with a price [purchased with a preciousness and paid for, made His [own]. So then, honor God and bring glory to Him in your body.



Jeremiah 30:17
For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, says the Lord.

Physical Health
The bible teaches that our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit, are not our own, and that we have been bought with a price. It also urges us to glorify God in our bodies. It is God’s desire that we have good health. Often times we ignore physical fitness and wellness and usually don’t take it seriously until we, or someone close to us falls ill.Jesus Christ came to give us the abundant life; this includes physical, mental and spiritual healing. Christ did not die on the cross so that we could remain in bondage to sicknesses of the mind or body, but to free us all from all afflictions.Thinking on these things is crucial to mental health. We must avoid filling our minds with anything contrary to the word of God, and any negative thoughts. A healthy mental diet is one free of degrading, impure, doubtful thoughts.


Mental Health 
In order to achieve mental health, we must start out by thinking positive, or right thoughts. In Philippians 4:8, it says, “and now, my friends, all that is true, all that is noble, all that is just and pure, all that is lovable and gracious, whatever is excellent and admirable-fill all your thoughts with these things.”Thinking on these things is crucial to mental health. We must avoid filling our minds with anything contrary to the word of God, and any negative thoughts. A healthy mental diet is one free of degrading, impure, doubtful thoughts


Spiritual Health
Good spiritual health is more vital than physical health. Our physical bodies will eventually die and decay no matter how well we care for them and our spirits will one day receive supernatural bodies that will live for eternity. In order to achieve perfect spiritual health, we have to maintain a godly spiritual condition, which is by keeping Christ's commandments.The key to living a spiritually healthy life is filling up on joy, love, peace, etc…the fruit of the spirit. When these fruit are abounding in our lives, people can see Christ! When we’re full of the fruit, it means the spirit is within us, and it enables us to live godly lives-which are healthy lives.Let’s take a full evaluation our physical, mental and spiritual health so that we will have direction for developing a plan to bring our lives into balance and be whole women of God.

Prayer Time !!


Father, tonight I come boldly before Your throne asking you to guide my LOV sisters and I to live wholesome, healthy lives. We take hold of Your promises to heal us in the areas we need healing. We proclaim and believe that we are healed of all sickness and disease.Let’s take a full evaluation our physical, mental and spiritual health so that we will have direction for developing a plan to bring our lives into balance and be whole women of God.We give you praise, honor and glory, amen.Lord we come before you with thanksgiving for what you are about to do in each and every one of our lives. We so desperately need your healing in so many areas. The physical, emotional, and spiritual. Things we have buried deep down inside of us. You desire to see us whole and holy. Break each and every stronghold, each and every ungodly yoke that keeps us from basking your grace and glorious love. There are those who have been verbally abused..Lord I thank you for speaking to this ladies. Thank you for blessing them daily.  Continue to touch them in areas of their lives changing them to be used by you. Lord don't let them think they are going through it alone. No matter how the enemy may try give them a sign so they will know you are there. Be the father they never had. The mother caring n loving they need. Be the best friend with the listening ear. Love them filling that void.Lord when they are hungry feed them. When they need clothes n shelter send it their way. Bill are due but we know I know you are an on time God. Dry those tears of feeling less than. Lord you can fix anything. You can heal anyone. You say seek you n trust you. We not calling on you for brownie point but we worship you with spirit n truth. We long to be with you. This world is not our final home. We are here to praise you. Break the chains that holding us from getting close to you. Remove rebuild reform our mind body n soul. I thank for all u have done. Seen n unseen. I love you. I bless your name. Be with these ladies as they sleep. Protect their families and those they love. Let them trust only you. Let the words of my mouth n meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight. Oh lord my strength n redeemer."We're not calling on your for brownie points but we worship you with spirit and truth".

In Jesus name we pray, AMEN ! 

Day Four: Clarity!

 (Being clear on the vision in which we are going after)

I hope it blesses you!

Habakkuk 2:2
-Write the vision and engrave it so plainly upon tablets that everyone who passes may [be able to] read [it easily and quickly] as he hastens by,
Proverbs 3:5-6
-Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.

God really does have a plan for every single person, even if it takes a while to see what it is. We know what we want, and most of us are pretty confident in what it is God wants. Although God already has his plans mapped out for out lives, we can still bring our desires to him-he wants to give us the desires of our hearts.
Habakkuk tells us to write the vision and make it plain. Many of us have ideas and dreams that we want to achieve and make happen, but we aren’t clear on exactly which ones are feasible or even God-ordained. Be mindful that because it all sounds like a good idea from the world's view doesn't mean it's God's plan for you.
One thing that God gave me, and has stuck with me for a while: “everything that is God is good, but not everything that is good is God.” Lets vow to be women of God living with a clear focus for our lives, so that we aren’t wandering aimlessly
Focus on what is God. Take some time and seek God to help make the vision clear. Ask yourself, what are my natural abilities, what am I passionate about, what are my spiritual abilities/where do I serve best in ministry? Before making a decision take the time to fast and pray about it, no matter how big or small it may seem. Trust that God will make the vision clear, and keep you focus on making it become a reality!

Prayer

Lord, I thank you once again for allowing me to come before your throne of grace. I come with a heart of thanksgiving and a mouth of praise. Tonight I am asking for clarity for my LOV sisters. I am asking that you make clear every vision that my sisters have. Every vision that is line with your purpose for their lives, I call to fruition. Fill them with the knowledge of your will, wisdom and understanding. I cancel every assignment of the enemy. The weapons of confusion, defeat, uncertainty and doubt that are formed will not prosper, and I render them powerless. Give each of my sisters a clear hearing of your voice so that they know when it is you speaking. I ask for clarity of purpose that they may know your complete will for their lives; clarity of mind so that their thoughts will not cloud the vision, but make it clear. Now, Father I thank you that you have made the vision clear and that their answer is yes and amen to all of your commands. Your word says that where there is no vision the people perish. My sisters will NOT die, but live with a clear vision of the direction that you have laid out for them…

Jesus just thank you and I ask and pray that the prayers of my sisters come out the way you intend. Ladies just to give You some words of encouragement. The pastor preached "God work on me " he was saying that the plan, anointing, word, etc that God has placed in His children has to be completed. He's not going to start something and not finish it. He is the author and finisher of our faith. We can't go wrong with Jesus. Anything that stands against you will be removed. He wants us to suffer for his glory and not faint. Tell yourself and others that God is going to get the glory no matter what your situation looks like. Our Blessings and victories are always greater than our sufferings. Just stand steady in God's word and stay seeking his face and being obedient no matter where you are in life. He cares and loves you and just wants us to see how great he is each and every day. Don't focus on the bad. Look at the good in all situations sisters!
Prayer request. Healing. Guidance. Wisdom. Persistence. Father I thank you these ladies you place in my life. You know better than they know themselves. Use them to reach others. Where they fall short strengthen them. Fill in that void. Bond us together so that we continue shine for only you. Bless our families and all around us. Lord you know where we need you most. Open our eyes to see only you. Keep us humble.

Give us clear visions for our families, jobs, friends, husbands, kids etc... And whatever is NOT your will speak to us God so we don't make mistakes...

Lord that you for all of my sisters... we don't know what you have in store for this group but we know it will bring about glory for you and blessedness for us. Thank you Lord for being a God who delights In revealing your will to your children. You are higher than the heavens but you love us dearly and anticipate our every word. Let us remember to take time each day and just be quiet before you...no petitions no anything just waiting to hear from you and all you desire to reveal to us. We need your guidance. We need your direction.

Give us all a vision of your will for us and whatever you will have us do for your kingdom. Let us deny ourselves and take up our crosses. We are not a part of this world. We need to divorce ourselves and allow you to be our sole focus.

Saturday, August 3, 2013

A Letter From God to Women

 I recently came across this letter posted on my facebook. Pray it blesses you and helps you to understand  the worth you have in the eyes of the Lord. The author is unknown to me. -Amber

A LETTER FROM GOD TO WOMEN

If you ever look at yourself and feel that you don’t measure up,
Read this and you outlook will change before you finish reading it.
This is good to keep, not just to read from time to time,
But to also keep stored in your heart!
Enjoy, and remember who you are!!

When I created the heavens and the earth, I spoke them into being,
When I created man, I formed him and breathed life into his nostrils.
But you, I fashioned after I breathed the breath of life into man,
Because your nostrils are too delicate.
I allowed a deep sleep to come over him, 
So I could patiently and perfectly fashion you.
Man was put to sleep so that he would not interfere with the creativity.

From one bone I fashioned you.
I chose the bone that protects man’s life.
I chose the rib,
Which protects his heart and lungs and supports him, 
As you are meant to do. Around this one bone I shaped you, I modeled you,
I created you perfectly and beautifully.
Your characteristics are as the rib,
Strong, yet delicate and fragile.
You provide protection for the most delicate organ in man, his heart.
His heart is the centre of his being;
His lungs hold his breath.
The rib cage will allow itself to be broken,
Before it will allow damage to the heart.
You are my perfect angel; you are my beautiful little girl.

You have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence,
And my eyes fill when I see the virtues in your heart.
Your eyes…..don’t change them,
Your lips… how lovely when they part in prayer.
Your nose, so perfect in form.
Your hands, so gentle to touch.
I’ve caressed your face in your deepest sleep.
I’ve held your heart close to mine.
Of all that lives and breathes, you are the most like me.

Adam walked with me in the cool of day, yet he was lonely.
He could not see or touch me, he could only feel me.
So everything I wanted Adam to share with me, I fashioned in you;
My holiness, my strength, my purity,
My love, my protection and support.
You are special because you are an extension of me.
Man represents my image, woman my emotions.
Together you represent the totality of God.

You are loved, respected and fragile.
Keep shining, keep running,
Keep hoping, keep praying,
Keep being exactly what you already are in God’s eyes,
COMPLETE!!

Day Three: Freedom-- Break Every Chain

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1)


-In my anguish I cried to the LORD, and He answered by setting me free. (Psalm 118:5)

 -1 Corinthians 57 tells us, "therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come." 

We're different, but why don't we always feel or act differently? Many of us wait for freedom to come in some magical or mysterious way; but freedom is here. It is NOW. Its easy when you've been in bondage so long to develop a habit of thinking and behaving like a prisoner. Well, we were prisoners and slaves to sin. We've all experienced physical, mental, emotional and/or financial bondage at some point in our lives. Because we're new creations and the old is gone, that bondage and sin doesn't define us anymore!Walk in freedom from the lies that Satan has whispered in your ear. Freedom from the pity parties over past mistakes; from impure thoughts, addictions, anything that had you bound. Those chains are broken-that chapter is over! Declare that you are first free in your mind! The word tells us that in order to be changed, we've got to renew our minds. 
It’s freedom we didn't deserve or work for. We may not even understand it, but it's ours! 

Prayer 

Lord, thank you for allowing us to meet together again in prayer. I ask for a special blessing for to those joining in. Tonight my LOV sisters and myself are coming before your throne seeking freedom. Your word says that you came to set the captives free. There are areas in our lives in which we are captive and need Your healing touch and freedom.Free us, Lord, from our addictions, sins, cares of this world, compulsive behaviors, depression, anger, low self esteem, debt, anxiety,lust, impure thoughts, pornography, masturbation, stress, fornication, adultery, bitterness, lying, cheating, hurt, guilt, shame, despair, overrating, gossip...free from anything that clings to us, and those to which we cling. Lord, purge us of anything that's preventing us from becoming what you have planned and purposed for our lives. We accept your invitation to bring our burdens to you and seek relief! We are weary and burdened and need rest. Lord, you're gentle and humble in heart, and extend rest for our souls. Your yoke is easy and your burden is light.Tonight, we stand free from all painful life experiences, from the cares, worries and anything that stifles our happiness. Your spirit is in each of us, and where your spirit is there is freedom...
Father God thank you for another beautiful day. God we're blessed to live in a country where we  have freedom. I declare freedom over all of our LOV sisters in Jesus Name. Every struggle, every debt, every hurt, every addiction, every thought that is separating them from coming closer to You, I bind it in Jesus Name. Father I declare peace over our lives. I thank you for breaking every chain that holds us back from living an empowered life.Thank you God for freeing us from bondage's of sin or anything that is not of You. God I pray peace, freedom, wisdom, guidance, courage, and righteousness. I pray once the shackles are removed from us that bondage will never return to us. 
Lord, I pray for the renewal of our hearts tonight. Renew us God. From this day forward we are new creation, and we are no longer slaves to this world. Thank you Jesus for hearing our prayers, I pray all these.

Lord once again thank you that we have set time apart to pray so that we bless others and be blessed so we can give you the glory you deserve. We need freedom. Freedom from everything that distracts us from being transformed in to Your image. Give us a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit, so that we can cast aside any and everything that troubles us.We ask that you strike down any fears of the future that may reside in our hearts. Fears of the world and Satan. Any fears we may have to be the salt and light of the earth. Any fears concerning our health and finances any worries or doubts about loved ones who may not be saved. You said perfect love casts out fear. So in the name of Jesus we resist anything that seeks to cut us off from your love, blessings and soundness of mind because your word says you haven't given us a spirit of fear but one of a sound mind.Fear is a lack of spiritual freedom and we declare in your name we will not be brought under the power of anything other than Your Spirit.  In Jesus Name we pray mightily and in faith Amen.Thank you Father for the freedom you have purchased for us through Jesus' blood. We are free from sin, free from condemnation, free from pleasing the world and even ourselves. Free to serve you now and for all eternity. Free to be women, feminine and godly...free to do all that you have equipped us to do.

Day Two: Obedience



Yesterday we covered spiritual guidance, so now you may be wondering, "What do I do now? I've heard the voice of God, but I'm not sure I can do what he is requiring." One of the best stories in the bible that outlines the importance of obedience is Jonah- he ran from God after hearing his voice and receiving direct instruction. Many of us can be like Jonah, running and rebelling against what we know, in our spirit, is right. God isn’t concerned about how comfortable we are doing his work. He wants to see that we are willing to step outside our comfort zones to ensure that he gets glory and that his will is carried out.  For many of us, obedience is easy when we’re led to pray for our brother or sister in Christ, encourage someone with our testimony, participate in outreach activities, or clean out our closets and bless those in need. Well, God will probably urge you to go a little further. Like ending that relationship to enter a season of solitude, or going on a 40-day fast from that one thing you can’t go without; you know, THOSE things.
Remember:
- Obedience is an act of worship. We are urged to work toward complete holiness. So, we won't learn obedience overnight; it's a lifelong process that we pursue by making it a daily goal.
- God rewards obedience (Genesis 22:18 "And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed all because you have obeyed me.")
-When we obey God, it proves our love to him (1 John 5:2–3 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.)
-Obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22–23 But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the LORD, he has rejected you as king.")
-When we obey, we reap blessing (Luke 11:28, Jesus replied, "But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.")
-Disobedience  leads to death and destruction (Romans 5:19, for as by the one man's [Adam's] disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's [Christ's] obedience the many will be made righteous.) 

Prayer 

Father I thank you right now for being able to come before your throne once again. Tonight I seek you on behalf of my LOV sisters in the area of obedience. Lord, even though it's not always easy to put down our will to obey yours, give us a willing heart.
Give us a desire to want to please you in every area of our lives. If there are any areas in which we are exhibiting disobedience, I speak obedience. We want to live lives that are pleasing to you. If you say go, we'll go. If you say speak, we will speak. If you say walk away, we'll walk away. Lord, be pleased with this act of worship- We know that there are blessing in our obedience, there is favor in our obedience. Father, I thank you for the desire to live in obedience-in agreement with your word, following your every command, as an expression of our love for you. I thank you that we are changed, and that we are worthy of everything you have in store for us because of our obedience...
Lord God I thank you for every woman in LOV and I thank you for allowing us to stay connected through communication. I pray that when you are calling us that there will be no hesitation in our hearts or minds. That you will bind our confusion because you ARE NOT the God of confusion but of a sound mind. I ask that you will give us the strength to suffer through our trails and not faint Lord God. I claim that when you tell us to do something, we will put all things aside for you Lord and do what your telling us to do. I pray that our obedience is happening the way you set it out to be and that if we want to add or remove things, that we confirm it with you first Father. I ask that you take any desires in our hearts that are unlike you away from us Lord God and help us not try to fetch after things you have cast away from us. That we will be made in the image you have for us and let us be Content with our portion. That we will be so busy pursuing your will for our lives, that we have no time to compare our portions to others. I ask that you keep us humbled Father and keep our hearts, eyes and mind stayed on you Jesus.
Lord thank you for allowing us to carve out this time to seek your face in prayer. You said the prayers of the saint are kept in bowls before your throne. You won't forget them because you are an omniscient God who knows the beginning from the ending. Yes guide us in obedience Lord. Help us to apply your Words to our lives. You said your Word would not return to you void. Plant it in our hearts so that the widows and the fatherless wont lack Anything. The homeless less will be fed, washed and clothed, the imprisoned will be comforted and encouraged. That we will obey your great commission and preach the gospel in boldness and strength. I pray we obey your word to pray for our brothers and sisters all around the world who are dying for your name. Let us not forget to constantly lift them in prayer for we are one body what the enemy does to one he does to all. You said when we do These things to the least of men we are actually doing them to you. Let us not be ashamed of your glorious coming but receive the reward of my crowns and hear you say well done good and faithful servant. We are the clay you are the potter. Keep our hearts soft so you may mold them into a heart like your own. 
Lord thank you for our salvation. Thank you for giving us the ability to follow you as servants of Christ. I pray God you will speak to our hearts, show us the areas we need to be obedient in. Show us where we need to go and what we need to do in order to fulfill your plan. Teach us obedience Father, disciple us as Christians. God I also pray for boldness, I pray when you say 'Go' we will say 'Yes Lord'. I pray we will be courageous as we go into the world to do your will. Let no weapon be formed against us. Let us not take heart to the wicked acts of the world, because we know whatever we do is in faithful obedience to you. We pray we will not be shaken by fear, but will do all tha you have called us to do. You are beautiful God, and I know my sisters having servant hearts to serve you with. Use them, call them according to Your Will God.

In Jesus name we pray, AMEN ! 

Day One : Spiritual Guidance



  • John 16: 13a NIV - But when he, the Spirit of Truth, comes, he will guide you in all truth. 
  • Psalm 16:11a NIV - You have made known to me the path of life; 
  • Psalm 32:8 NIV - I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
We can rest assured that God is with us always, through His spirit. When we give our lives to Christ and His lordship, we also invite the Holy Spirit.When the spirit comes it guides us in ALL truth. Meaning, that it leads in the direction of God- in every area of our lives: in relationships, friendships, conversations, thoughts, interactions, deeds, making purchases, etc… All we have to do is ask him what it is he wants us to do and he’s ready to point us in the direction we must go.Lets find out what God wants us to do in any given situation, in any decision that we have to make. Our ever-present Father is willing to make Himself known to us always! He is willing to show us exactly what to do in every situation, and yet, we never stop to ask. Seeking God for guidance is always right. God has a will for each and every one of us and his will cannot take us where his grace won't sustain us.

Prayer 

Lord, I come to you first thanking and praising you for who you are. Tonight I lay before you my LOV sisters. Lord, you know each of the areas in their lives in which they need your guidance and direction. I proclaim that you are Lord over their lives.I thank you that they will seek you before making any decisions-those regarding relationships, friendships, legally binding contracts-such as rent/leases/mortgages/loans, jobs, careers, majors, etc…In areas where there's doubt I call forth faith. Faith that you will extend grace and guide them to the path that you would have them to take. God, I ask for wisdom for each of my sisters; Wisdom that would keep them in your will, avoiding any choices that will leave them with regrets. Lord, I know that if we seek you, with our whole hearts that we will find you…

Lord You know each and every heart. Each and every need. LORD we need so much more from you than material things. We need your closeness, your wisdom, your strength and we need your love. We don't ask for these things apart from Yourself. We ask for your Presence. Stand near to us so we can do all you ask of us. You said that to love You Is to obey you. We want to show our love for you by calling on your mighty name to guide us in our decisions and to make your will our will. Pull up any weeds of disobedience, fear of discouragement from our hearts. Allow us to stay focused on why you gave us life and why you redeemed us from sin and your coming wrath. Let us remain sober and walk straight in this crooked, wicked generation.

I'm standing in agreement with my sisters. We long for you! Don't let us fall. Let us shine n live for only you. We can't do this without you. Let us not be selfish in the work we do for you. Remove, rebuild, us into who you create us to be. We thank you for healing. We thank you for closed doors which is was for our betterment.
Our obedience to him is done without hesitation, fear, or anxiously. Just that we desire to obey you Lord all the days of our lives because without you we are nothing and only through you do we become something. And i pray that our something is exactly what you want us to be and hid our selfish desires from us so we can only desire your will father. I pray and ask this in Jesus name.


Lord we come before you. Thank you for speaking to Lakeisha on behalf of our group. We pray we will do your will everyday. Guide our paths and show us where to walk. I pray your conviction will be so sweet, pure and clear. I pray we will seek you in all we do, and Lord if something is not of you or is not in Your will, give us spiritual guidance, conviction, and discernment. Show us the right way to go. each us how to have patient and trusting hearts towards You. God I pray you will lead all of us in love, faithfulness, and righteousness. I pray we will strive to live more like Christ. Father please guide us as women of God and point us in the direction to go. I pray even though we let go of things that are not of you, or when we take a leap of faith, we will trust in you. And no matter what decision we take, we know you will take care of us and I pray also when we open your Word, that we will understand. Allow us to get intimate with you in your word. I pray for understanding and knowledge. I rebuke confusion and disobedience in Jesus name. Thank you Lord for this prayer time. Thank you for these women of God. Thank you for spiritual guidance. Thank you for filling the hunger inside of our hearts to get to know you more. Fill our starving hearts and allow us to yearn for more and more. God, grow us in you. Sound your voice and give our ears recognition. In Jesus Name. 
Amen and Glory to God.
Sisters hope this reached and touched and ministered to someone. Be blessed. More coming each day. 

August Study :)

Hello my beautiful sisters,

During this month we will be doing a 7 day devotion led by one of our LOV sister, who came up with this idea while in her quiet time with God. For the first 7 days of August we will be praying for the group in the areas of :
1. Spiritual Guidance 
2. Obedience 
3. Freedom (spiritual, financial, mental, emotional)  
4. Clarity
5. Health
6. Finances 
7. Stability 

At 7 pm EST we will be doing a prayer on groupme, and I will try my best to post all the prayers that the ladies share on here. In addition to this 7 day devotion, we are doing a daily 31 day devotion from the YouVersion Bible App. The devotion is God and Me: Devotions from Time and Grace. 

Thursday, June 27, 2013

THE GLORY OF GOD

Today's mystery is THE GLORY OF GOD.

 Read JOHN 11. Lazarus' death. (I refuse to post it so that you may open your Bible and see for yourself.)

 Yes we have all read that story nothing new there am sure you like yeah yeah.....heard that before.! NEXT! But am not here to concentrate on what your traditional churches have taught you, what you learnt in school or Bible college.

I am here to open your eyes to a broader meaning of this scripture. The untold side of this story. The deeper insight that only comes with quiet time with God.

 So READ!

Mary and Martha were friends of Jesus along with Lazarus, but when they tell Jesus that Lazarus is sick look at His response, "THIS SICKNESS WILL NOT END IN DEATH. NO, IT IS FOR THE GOD'S GLORY SO THAT GOD'S SON MAYBE GLORIFIED THROUGH IT."

What did that mean? Was Jesus so cold? Couldn't He have healed Lazarus so these people wouldn't cry?

So in Greek Glory means DOXA = THE RIGHT OPINION DOXOLOGY (sp) = To have the right opinion of something.

 You've heard it used in Orthodox Jews, or Orthodox Greek = They believe their opinion is right and all.

 So GLORY = THE RIGHT OPINION OF GOD.

So now back to Jesus. His response This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's Glory, so that God's Son may be GLORIFIED.

 This sickness will not end in death. No, its so that THE RIGHT OPINION OF GOD THROUGH HIS SON MAY BE MADE MANIFEST.

Now look at verse 40 of that same scripture
John 11:40, Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see THE GLORY OF GOD?" insert THE RIGHT OPINION
John 11:40, Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see THE RIGHT OPINION OF GOD?"

Basically Jesus was saying "you guys have such a small opinion of God and Me, you think I can only heal diseases and forgive sins, walk on water, cast out demons, but today you shall see THE BIGGER PICTURE of God which is HE CAN RAISE THE DEAD AFTER 4 DAYS" (imagine maggots had already formed and all that decomposition and decay, taking place, not to mention the smell.)
So Jesus said that to show that God can DO ALL THINGS, STOP PUTTING HIM IN A BOX. Still not convinced?

ANOTHER EXAMPLE
Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare THE GLORY of God (insert "the right opinion of God")
The heavens declare THE RIGHT OPINION OF GOD.
Hebrews 1:3 He is the radiance of the Glory of God.....
He is the radiance of THE RIGHT OPINION OF GOD.

1Cor 10:31 So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to THE GLORY OF GOD.
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all so that THE RIGHT OPINION OF GOD maybe seen through you.

Get any Scripture with the GLORY OF GOD and see...(Philippians 2: 9-11, Exodus 24:17 etc)
THE MOST AMAZING PART!!!!!!!

Didn't you ever wonder how Moses wrote the Torah without being born or present at that time?
READ Exodus 33:18-21 emphasis on 18 and 21 (Moses' qtn and God's Response)
Moses asked God to show Him His glory, but God said He wouldn't handle it, thus showing Him His back.
GLORY= RIGHT OPINION OF GOD
God couldn't show Moses His front because it would show the FUTURE GLORY = (FUTURE OPINION OF GOD).

Confusing right? Read the bottom 1st then come back and read. Will make sense then.

But God showed Him His Back (PAST GLORY = PAST RIGHT OPINION OF GOD) That is how Moses was able to write Genesis , he wasn't there but He saw GOD'S VIEW OF CREATION AKA GENESIS that day and that is how he was able to give it from God's view n all, THE RIGHT OPINION ABOUT THE CREATION.

Ok I over hyped it but i was so amazed and blown away and I hope you will be too.

I take no credit for this discovery, it was a sermon I watched on TBN from BISHOP JOHN FRANCIS. It changed my life and Opinion of God and continues to do so when I am limiting Abbas Father. Stay Blessed and May God continue to do a good work in you.

<3 Tendi

Sunday, May 19, 2013

LADIES OF VIRTUE Spending Fast

The wise man saves for the future, but the foolish man spends whatever he gets. Proverbs 21:20 (paraphrase)

The official start date of the spending fast will be June 1, 2013 and will last through June 30, 2013. All ladies who desire to join please leave a post on the Ladies of Virtue Facebook page or groupme chat.

This fast will seek to curb unnecessary spending and help us learn to be better stewards of what God has blessed us with.  To further honor our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, a portion of the money saved can be donated to a missions group, charity or other ministry, this of course is totally optional.

The book of Proverbs will be the primary source of wisdom we draw from. I will be posting a verse and a devotional for the day which focuses on being a better steward. These posts will be on the Facebook page and groupme chat. What we experienced and learned will be discussed, recorded, and posted on the Ladies of Virtue blog (lovislove7.blogspot.com) to help encourage others besides those in our group.

Fasting responsibilities
1.       No unnecessary spending. This means we must not spend money on anything that is not absolutely necessary. If you usually pay for a service, but can perform it yourself, please do so.  For example, if eating out is a problem for you, you must prepare all meals at home unless dining at someone else’s home.  If at all possible, eat breakfast before going to work and take lunch or part of lunch to work.
2.       We must journal each time we are tempted to spend money on something non-essential. Make a note of the temptation in your phone or some other place. This will give us a good idea where our weakness to spend lies. Also jot down how much you would have spent, this will give you an idea about how much you actually saved for the month. This figure will also help you determine what amount you should donate if you choose to.
3.       Take time to mediate on the daily bible verses and devotionals. Pray for yourself and others who are participating in the fast.
4.       Stay away from websites and stores that you usually shop from. Do not let the lure of an once-in-a-lifetime sale, coupons, or other incentives lure you away from your goal not to spend.
5.       Express gratitude to the Lord for His blessings each and every day.
6.       Don’t allow anyone to lead you into temptation to spend.

Comments and suggestions are welcome and I will officially add them.

Let’s get started saving money for God’s glory ladies!

Poverty and disgrace come to those who ignore discipline, but the one who accepts correction will be honored. Proverbs 13:18 HCSB

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Bible Study

We will begin this journey with the addition of weekly "food for the soul" as they say. After much deliberation and figuring out times that would work out across the globe, we have decided on
                                 
 SATURDAYS at 12pm ** Note Change

Every other week, one of our virtuous queens will have the pleasure of leading the group in the study. The Virtuous Queen for the week will choose an overall topic, find bible verses and just chat with the group about what it means. The topics will be set by whatever the presenter feels led to talk about.

For example: Choose the topic of "staying focused", find a chapter in the bible about staying focused(I'm not as good at this YET) and then discuss what it meant to YOU. Afterwards, anyone can jump in and talk about what it meant to them and how they applied it to their lives.

It would be a good idea for the leader for the week to post the verse in advance (one week) on here so others have the opportunity to think about it and what it means to them if they want which of course would not be mandatory.

We have been blessed to be able to use anymeeting.com where the presenter can be viewed and anyone can log in online or call in to the conference and join in. The presenter will be the person presenting for the week. In order to send you all an invitation, I will need to add your e-mail to the meeting first. Please comment on this blogpost by adding your e-mail!

Our First Bible Study will be on Sunday, June 2nd @2pm

Ladies, I took the liberty of plugging in some names for people to lead the bible study! If you would like to switch, or prefer a specific day, or are not comfortable,  please do not hesitate to switch with someone in the group by either commenting or connecting with our sisters on groupme. We also have an e-mail attached to this blog which is lovislove7@gmail.com

June 2nd- Tendi
June 16th- Amber
June 30th- L Patterson
July 14th- Nimmoh
July 28th-Arlaysha
August 11th- Sandra Butler
August 25th- Stephanie
September 8th- Shandretta
September 15th- Alicia
September 29th- Bel
October 13th- Carissa K
October 20th- Jacquelyn
November 3rd- Jazmine A.
November 17th- Kayla
December 8th- Zkayy
December 22nd- Shavannah

Don't be afraid to be used by Him to reach others. This is in its infancy stages, please keep in mind that everything is subject to change and completely open to new ideas! We will probably be changing a lot as we go so lets pray to start off with an open mind.

              Don't forget! LOV is Love!!

 In Jesus' name we pray that you open our hearts, minds, and souls to have this group be led by HIM. Father we pray that each of your virtuous queens is illuminated each week of study to speak the words that you have intended for us all to hear that you use this tool to help us grow in our personal lives and in reach and expand our minds.

Amen!

Our Story


The Story of Ladies of Virtue is one that can only be described as being God-Led, a ministry, or a calling among other things. Originally a member of Pinky-Promise, an organization dedicated to women giving their entire heart and life to Christ, Stephanie Ballard suggested some ladies join a group on the phone app "groupme" to discuss the month's bible reading challenge. In 31 days we were to read the 31 chapters of Proverbs. Within hours the group was filled with 50 ladies (the maximum capacity).We spoke every day, not only about the Word, but about life, men, sex, tribulations, challenges, and just randomness! Slowly, He was molding us to begin to trust each other, love each other, and use each other to help us get closer to His Kingdom. A sisterhood was being formed right before our eyes.


By the time the 31 days were over, we were equipped with a strong army of God-seeking women. Facebook groups were created, new "groupme" groups developed, and every week we were introducing a new disciples to our sisterhood.

Today we start this blog as a way to keep our community as we begin to grow. I guess we can say that that we are more than pinky promise, more than ladies of virtue, we are embodiment of Proverbs 31: "Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised."