What’s up blog fam!

I hope all is well in your world. Have you guys been working hard? Being productive? Budgeting? Dieting? Journaling? Exercising? Meeting those goals that you set at the beginning of the year? While some of you may be excelling at accomplishing what you’ve set out to get done, others may find themselves in a period of re-constructing. Listen, if you find yourself in the latter category, just know that you are not alone.

First off, let me say, if you are in a period of re-constructing, this is not a bad thing. In fact, this is the perfect place to level-up. If you’ve been feeling like you haven’t made much progress. STOP! If you’ve ran into a few potholes along the way, don’t get discouraged. You’re at a power-point in life!

A construction site is an important place. It’s usually taped off by caution tape or blocked off by bright orange cones. Everyone does NOT have access to it. There are specific people appointed to complete the assignment. Everyone’s not qualified to get the job done. Much like these construction zones, when we reach a place of re-constructing in our lives, God will place a hedge of protection all around us. The Lord protects us everyday, but it’s something special about being in a place where there is a particular “work in progress”. Certain friends may not have access to you. Certain family members may not have access to you. God will assign the right individuals to your life at the right time and He will appoint them to the proper areas that need rebuilding.

At a construction site, things tend to look a bit complicated particularly to those of us who have nothing to do with what’s actually going on. Have you ever walked or rode pass a construction site and tried to figure out what in the world they were doing? Did you find yourself driving a little slower, listening a little harder, or looking a little closer? I have! Well, this is true also in our everyday lives. There will be folks observing you. There will be folks trying to figure out what you have going on. To them, your life will be completely confusing and that’s all right. You are a “Work in Progress”. It was not meant for everyone to understand where you are in life. God is our Foreman. He is our Director! Let the onlookers keep watching God move on your behalf! Stay focused on what God is doing on the inside of you. His work will overflow. It is written, “…He that began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6 ).

This is your time to repair.

This is your time to reestablish.

This is your time to revamp.

Yes, there may be some construction work going on in your life but, your destiny still awaits you. You thought you were going to show up one way, but God is making you over. He is restoring you!

All of your hard work is going to pay off. Things may appear complicated right now. Your life may seem unorganized. Just remember, “all things work together for good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28).

So, if you’ve been worrying about not checking off everything you listed on your New Year’s Resolution list or your list of 2021 goals, STOP! Go back to the drawing board if you have too. Check in with your accountability partners. If things didn’t work out the way you thought they would, don’t be afraid to rebuild.

Don’t be afraid to recreate.

Don’t be afraid to remake.

Don’t get distracted by the spectators. Don’t lose focus on the work in front of you. Let God continue to work in and through Y.O.U.

Much love,

Takelia

Wow, guys!

I really can’t believe we’ve already reached mid-year. Geesh! There’s been so many twists and turns and adjustments within this last year. Mask mandates have been lifted in some states. People are returning to the workplace. Children are transitioning back into school. It’s like we’ve all been thrusted into this period of transition in some way, shape, or form. But, what does it mean to be in transition? Lets take a look!

According to Dictionary.com, the word “transition” means to “change from one position, stage, subject, concept, etc. to another”. A few synonyms for transition are: shift, growth, and evolution. I really love all three synonyms, but I’d really like to focus on the shifting that takes place when we’re in transition.

When something or someone is in transition, a change occurs. No matter how big or how small, change is change, and any change is significant.

At this very moment, I find myself in transition to better. It’s a wonderful place to be! I can actually see how far God has brought me spiritually, mentally, and physically. I have reached a point in my life where I am embarking upon new beginnings and embracing my truth. While I am completely blessed to have gotten to this point in my life, I must say that there are times when this place of transitioning to better feels uncomfortable and scary. I find myself feeling excited and nervous at the same time.

Have you ever found yourself in a place in your life that you’ve hoped and prayed for, but when you arrived you wondered if you deserved to be there? Maybe you’ve been in debt for so long and now have financial freedom but this place of financial freedom feels strange and you feel like you’re undeserving of it. Have you ever wondered if you were really ready to receive the blessing? Can anyone relate?

What I’m learning is that this place of transition takes faith and the heart to push past feelings of uncertainties. The unknown can bring about fear if you allow it, but we serve a God who knows the beginnings from the end, and is ever-present for anything in between. Our Heavenly Father has already paved the way for us and made every crooked path straight. He graciously and mercifully orders our steps into greatness. But, we must transition from where we are to where God wants us to be.

Yes, we must move when God tells us its time to move.

We must let go when He tells us its time to let go.

We must plan and prepare, when He tells us its time to plan and prepare.

Also, we must execute, when God tells us it’s time to execute.

Perhaps you find yourself in this place of transition too. Things in your life are shifting. Things in your life are evolving. You may find yourself a bit busier than normal and don’t have much time for things you used too. Maybe you have lost interest in going to some places you’ve always gone to, but have found new interests in places that are true to who you really are. Maybe you’ve outgrown some of your childhood friends and have decided to do your own thing for the time being because its less drama and you have more peace. Perhaps you’ve come to terms with the fact that your job really isn’t your heart’s passion and you want to venture out to pursue your life’s dreams.

At this very moment, somebody’s transitioning from being an employee to becoming an employer.

Somebody’s transitioning from renter to homeowner.

Somebody’s transitioning from student to graduate.

Somebody’s transitioning from singleness to marriage.

Somebody’s transitioning from sickness to health.

Somebody’s transitioning from their small beginning to their greatest endeavors.

No matter where you are in your transition stage, remember Proverbs 3:5-7 which states, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path” (NKJV). This scripture is familiar, but it is so empowering in so many different ways. For one, this scripture lets us know that we don’t have to do anything without the Lord our God. He desires to be with us. He enjoys our company. We can put all our “trust” in Him because He truly cares for us.

Proverbs 3:5-7 also removes the pressure of us having to know everything. The scripture encourages us to “lean NOT on our own understanding”. This means we don’t and won’t know it all but, we can trust that God has everything under control. A lot of times we hinder ourselves from making moves because we want to know all the details. This scripture lets us know that God takes that responsibility.

Catch this! We must acknowledge who God is even in the midst of our transitions. This thing gets personal because you and I may acknowledge Him differently yet we reverence God’s power working in our lives all the same. For me, I may acknowledge Him as a Wonderful Counselor while someone else acknowledges Him as the Prince of Peace. All in all, He makes all things possible. God gets the glory! He must be acknowledged!

The most reassuring part of this scripture is that God WILL direct our path. So you, yes you, who have been worrying during this transition period in your life, God is steering the shift. You have been thinking that you have to figure it all out. Trust me, I have been thinking this way too. However, the truth of the matter is that God has already worked everything out for our good.

In closing, I can say that the best part of being in a stage of transition is knowing that I can talk to God at any given point and time. I can talk to Him when I’m happy. I can talk to Him when I’m confused. I can come to Him when I’ve lost my direction and don’t know which way to go. He never gets frustrated with me when I come to Him with my doubts and fears. I can feel God’s presence and know that I am not alone. The great news is that this same God is with you also on your life’s journey.

Things in our lives are changing. Things in our lives are shifting for the good. We are growing! We are evolving!

We are transitioning to better!

Much love,

Takelia

Breathe in. Breathe out. That’s right! You’ve got it.

One of the most essential parts of living is inhaling and exhaling. All too often, we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. There’s laundry to fold and put away, dishes to be washed, homework to submit, parent-teacher conferences, virtual meetings, basketball tryouts, track meets, and the list goes on and on and on.

On top of all of that, there’s bills to be paid, a business to run, and quality time to be spent with the family. It is no wonder why there are times we find ourselves completely burned out. While all of this is happening, it is easy to forget to consciously breathe in and release.

I don’t know about you, but I’m so guilty of getting lost in the sauce and feeling anxious about my life. The bible clearly tells us, “not to be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, and let your requests be made known to God” yet anxiousness sets in from time to time (Philippians 4:6). We get caught up in worrying about how things are going to get paid. We find ourselves grappling with what are we going to eat or wear tomorrow. We wrack our brains trying to figure out what our next move is going to be. Have you ever been there?

If you’ve ever found yourself pondering any of the thoughts mentioned above or have ever felt consumed by the uncertainties of life, take a deep breath and know that you are not alone. Be reminded, “not to worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear…” because God has already taken care of it all.(Matthew 6:25). If we allow it, this scripture has the power to release us from our day to day worries. The aforementioned scripture continues to say, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” (Matthew 6:26). Of course you are!

As valuable as we are, uncertain times will still come, but we must trust that God has a plan for our life. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Reread that again! Listen, this whole scripture is a vibe. It’s a breath of fresh air! This scripture speaks to every anxious thought toward where we are and where we are headed. This scripture releases us from having to figure things out on our own. The thing that also makes this scripture so sweet is that God’s plan for our life is a GOOD plan. It’s not just the better plan, but it’s the BEST plan. With God’s plan comes prosperity, breakthroughs, miracles, and so much more.

Though we may have a lot going on in our world, we owe it to ourselves to find rest and peace in the midst of it all. God encourages us to “cast our cares upon Him for He cares for us” (1 Peter 5:7). Casting our cares upon God is so important because it frees us from having to carry around the weight of our day. God wants us to pour out our heart to Him. We may scream if we have too…cry or whatever; but it is crucial for us to relieve ourselves of the stresses that robs us of the peace that God desires for us to have here on earth. Peace shouldn’t be something we look for only in death, but at night when we lay our heads on our pillows, our sleep should be sweet because we’ve decided not to be burdened by the troubles of this world. We must decide to lay every weight at Jesus’ feet so that we are able to breathe with ease.

If you’re reading this post and thinking, ” Well, I’m dealing with far greater problems than this” or maybe you’re thinking , “I can’t breathe with all the injustices in society”, please continue reading below.

There are families out there mourning the lives of loved ones that are gone too soon because of police brutality and it feels hard to breathe.

There are families out there who have been evicted during this pandemic and does not have a place to stay and it feels hard to breathe.

There are children being separated from their mothers and fathers with little to no hope of being reunited and it feels hard to breathe.

Wherever you are at this moment–physically, spiritually, emotionally–no matter whats going on in your life, remember that God is as close to you as your very next breath. It is He who “formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being” (Genesis 2:7). Everyday, God is breathing life into our bodies. He is our source and He is our strength.

God is our life-line. God is the reason we can sit on the couch at night after tucking the kids in bed, and realize that we’ve made it through another busy day. God is the reason we can return to work the next day prepared to tackle another hectic agenda. God is the reason we can keep breathing even in the midst of pain and suffering. God is the reason why we can’t give up.

Things in your world may be hectic and hard right now, but you have the ability to breathe life. I want to encourage you to keep breathing.

When the anxious thoughts come, breathe.

When you’re feeling afraid, breathe.

When things are uncertain, breathe.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, breathe.

Your life depends on you breathing.

Your dreams and aspirations are in your breath.

Hope is in your breath.

Justice is in your breath.

Change is in your breath.

Breathe life.

Breathe life into your situation.

Breathe life into your finances.

Breathe life into your marriage and/or relationship.

Breathe life into your business.

Breathe life into that creative idea.

Press pause for a moment if you can. Close your eyes if you have too. Slowly inhale. Hold it! Now, slowly exhale. You’re doing great! Just keep on breathing.

Much love and God bless,

Takelia

Hello, hello, hello!

I’m so glad you’ve carved out some time for a little heart to heart inspiration. Ya girl is so ready to dive right into this topic because it’s one that should certainly be exposed for its ugly truth.

Earlier in the month, I had the honor of being the guest speaker at my church, ACG Ministries, for Resurrection “Easter” Sunday. In the message that I delivered, I spoke about the “F” word. Yes, you read it right…the “F” word. Don’t act like you don’t know what four letter word I’m talking about. FEAR!!!

There’s so much that can be said about Fear. It’s familiar. It’s frightening. It’s NOT of God.

Fear is not a friend. In fact, if you’ve ever met Fear, you know that its presence is unsettling. Its presence brings along anxiety, panic, horror. Fear will set off the alarm, “danger, danger, danger” when there’s no real danger at all. Oh the lies, fear tell.

Fear will tell you, “you’re not good enough”.

Fear will tell you, “it will never happen”.

Fear will tell you, “you’re a failure”.

Fear will tell you, “things will never get better”.

Fear will tell you, “there’s no way out”.

Fear will tell you, “nobody cares”.

Lie, after lie, after lie…fear speaks. And, if we can be honest…if you hang out with Fear long enough, the lies become believable. You may feel like you’re not good enough because you gave your best shot but, your best shot didn’t quite cut the cake. Maybe, you’ve had perfect attendance, stayed up late to create the lesson plans, and ensured your students were prepared for an enhanced learning experience, yet you were not chosen to be Teacher of the Year. Perhaps, you were not voted to be President of the organization you’ve been dedicated to and have served for years. Maybe, you invested your all into getting the business started, but business isn’t booming like you thought it would. Fear grips your thoughts and hold you hostage and say, “you’re not good enough” with hopes that you will throw in the towel. An overbearing feeling consumes you as you consider that maybe you’re just not “the one” to get the job done. You’re afraid.

You may believe getting your degree will never happen or that you will never get the job. You’ve worked tirelessly for years, but the promotion hasn’t come. You’ve studied and studied for the exam, but repeatedly missed the mark. You wrote the book, submitted it for publication, but it hasn’t been accepted. Fear whispers, “you’re a failure” with hopes that you will not try again. When you’ve hung out with Fear for too long, you forfeit taking another chance and putting your best foot forward.

You may believe your health will never get better or that your marriage will crumble. You may believe your child will never get his or her act together. You’ve prayed and prayed, but a change hasn’t come. Hopelessness sets in and each day you wrestle with distressing thoughts. You find yourself with a heavy heart and struggling to defeat depression. Out of fear, you believe beginning a new day is worthless. You think, “things will never get better”.

You may believe there is no way out of debt and that you will remain financially stuck. You worry about bills. You worry about losing your possessions. You worry about not having food on the table. On another note, you may have been stuck in the cycle of an unhealthy relationship and feel as though there’s no way to end the toxicity. Fear encourages you to settle.

You may really feel alone because no one seems to understand your situation.

If you’ve wrestled with any of these types of thoughts mentioned above understand that you have hung out with Fear for far too long.

There is another “F” word I discussed on Resurrection Sunday. This “F” word is called Faith. Over the years, Faith has become a best friend. This day, I want to encourage you to rely on Faith.

When Faith shows up, Fear backs down.

When Fear says, “Panic”, Faith says, “Pray”.

You may have fallen down seven times, but Faith says “Get back up!”

Your project may have failed, but Faith says, “Try again!”

Your credit score may not be where you need it to be, but Faith says, “You’re approved!”

When you feel like giving up and throwing in the towel, Faith says, “Hold on just a little while longer.”

All Faith needs is for you to do is believe. Jesus said, “All things are possible for one who believes” (Mark 9:23). It’s time for you to add some fuel to your faith.

I don’t know who this message is for but, it’s time to introduce Fear to your Faith in God.

Somebody wants to go back to school, but Fear won’t let you. You’re worried about tuition. You’re worried about being too old. You’re afraid because now you’re a parent and have more responsibilities. I stopped by to interrupt Fear’s flow and remind you to rely on your Faith. If God has placed it on your heart to return to school, allow your Faith in God to lead the way. If God has placed it on your heart to begin dating again, let Him lead the way.

You may not have all the details, but trust that ALL things will work together for your good.

The word of God tells us that “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

What are you hoping for? Whatever it is, believe that it can and WILL happen. You may not be able to see it right now, but we are encouraged to “write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it” (Habakkuk 2:2).

Don’t lose hope in your dreams. Don’t lose sight of where you are going. Don’t doubt where God wants you to be.

Remember this: “…God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

Just in case no one told you, “You have POWER.”

Just in case no one told you, “You have LOVE.”

Just in case no one told you, “You have a SOUND MIND.”

I didn’t make this stuff up. Hold on to your Faith. You may ask how? Tell yourself GOOD things. Declare good things over your life and over the lives of everyone connected to you.

“You are the lender and not the borrower” (Deuteronomy 28:12).

“You are the head and not the tail” (Deuteronomy 28:13).

“You are above and not beneath” (Deuteronomy 28:13).

“You shall live and NOT die” (Psalm 118:17).

It is God’s desire that you be in good health and that your soul prospers (3 John 1:2).

Get up from where you are. Don’t stay there! Be determined to succeed. Do not allow Fear to cripple you any longer.

When Fear meets Faith, it becomes powerless and you become fearLESS.

I love you and God bless!

From my heart to yours,

Takelia H.

“The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” ~Nelson Mandela

Sound the alarm! Release the balloons! Dance a little jig! Let the confetti come down! It’s time to celebrate! Somebody, somewhere is celebrating someone or something that has been birthed into this earth.

“Birth” days are always special. When someone or something is born, it marks the beginning of life. It marks the beginning of a new creation. “Birth” days mark milestones. These moments are often memorable, joyful, and inspirational. I could go on and on, but the gist is knowing that “birth” days are noteworthy.

One thing in particular to take note about “birth” days is that there’s always a process leading up to the actual “birth.” Giving birth doesn’t just happen. There is conception, growth, development, and delivery. Also, there’s a period of preparation.

The seed (idea or fetus) is planted. It grows and develops overtime as you nurture it even as it is yet unborn.You plan and prepare for what is soon to come. You realize that the process is just as important as the delivery date. As time passes, you realize something is growing on the inside of you. (Fellas, don’t stop reading because this is for you too.)

The more this “seed” grows and develops on the inside of you, the more you begin to feel movement…life!

I came to let you know that you, yes YOU, reading this post are carrying life on the inside of you. We are all pregnant! Nope, I’m not crazy! Each of us are pregnant with ideas, creativity, and destiny. The world awaits your delivery date. The world awaits your “birth” day.

The world is counting on you to give birth to that business.

The world is counting on you to give birth to that website.

The world is counting on you to give birth to that recipe.

The world is counting on you to give birth to that podcast.

Just in case no one told you, you were chosen to create and recreate. The world needs your gifts. The world needs your talents. You are carrying around someone or something that is going to literally change the world.

Stop doubting your ability to conceive. Turn to the One who created ALL things. He is the Author and Finisher of our faith. If you didn’t get the memo, let me be the first to tell you that you are carrying greatness. The seed on the inside of you is something this world has never seen before. The church girl in me can’t help but say “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Corinthians 2:9, NIV).

Today, I challenge you to speak life!

Speak life over your children.

Speak life to your book.

Speak life to your brand clothing line.

Speak life on the inside of you.

Let me say that some of you are in the period of preparation and that’s okay. This time is critical for you. Sometimes it might even feel painful. It’s important to remember, however, that the pain you may feel comes with a purpose. The closer you get to your delivery date, the closer you get to your destiny, the more tense your circumstances may become. You may feel some pressure, but through it all, don’t forget to breathe. Push! An entrance is about to be made!

Prepare to receive your blessing!

Prepare to receive your bundle of joy!

Lets make 2021 a memorable year! This is the year that you reach milestones. You are growing as the “seed” on the inside of you is developing. This is the year that you create!

It’s time for you to get excited about what God is doing on the inside of you. He is holding your hand. As you inhale and exhale, God alleviates the pain as you give birth to what only He can bring forth. When that day comes, the day that you give birth, don’t forget to celebrate! In the words of rapper 50 Cents “Go shawty, its ya “birth”day, we gonna party like its ya “birth”day!”

Much love and peace,

Takelia

Happy February lovebugs!

I am so excited about this post because it’s so near and dear to me. My heart bubbles with joy as I write and a blush covers my face because it’s something so sweet about entering God’s presence. It’s the very reason why, I believe, that I am able to share these heart to heart messages with you. Sooo, kickback, relax, and read on!

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to embrace the quiet moments of the day. Stillness–a place free from noise…complete calm. If you’re a parent, college student, business owner, pastor, teacher, member of a fraternity or sorority, or simply someone juggling multiple tasks at a time, finding a moment of silence may seem difficult. It may be so difficult that you find yourself consumed by routine duties.

When life is too loud, it’s easy to become frustrated, distracted, and imbalanced. It’s no wonder why we find ourselves feeling anxious at times because there is always something going on. Lets be real though! When there isn’t much going on, we often find ourselves indulging in our phones, on social media, scrolling on Google, shopping on Amazon, catching up on our favorite t.v. shows, or watching the most recent Netflix release. In case you thought you were alone, you’re not. Ha!

Yes, there’s endless things to do in our down time, but there’s something about entering a quiet place. A place where there is no t.v., no radio, no podcast, no YouTube video, no phone, no news, no conversation, no racing thoughts. This may sound foreign to some, but this place does exist.

Normally, my quiet place is inside my car. Whether I’m going to town to pick up groceries or going to the dumpster to rid some trash, I enter my quiet place. My radio is usually turned down and the only sound I can hear comes from my car. Some days or nights I crack the window and listen to the shuffling sound of the wind. During these rides are when I enter God’s presence. This is where I hear His voice. Yup, right in my 2005 Honda Accord!

The beautiful and most precious thing about God is that He can be accessed anywhere. Literally, ANYWHERE. All He wants for us to do is “Be still…” (Psalm 46:10). In other words, be calm. Can you calm down all the other voices-the voices of friends and family members; the voices of your favorite YouTube stars? Can you set aside your busy schedule? Can you press pause on your own thoughts to be in His presence for a little while? God doesn’t ask for much. The aforementioned scripture, Psalm 46:10, goes on to say, “Be still and know that I am God.”

This post is for you who find yourself swamped in things to do. This post is for you who feel like you’re barely keeping your head above water. This post is for you who find yourself overwhelmed and struggling to hear from heaven. I encourage you to find that quiet moment during the day. Many churches have been closed due to the pandemic, but you do not have to wait for churches to reopen to get into the presence of God.

Your world may be hectic; it may feel like everything is spinning out of control, but KNOW that in His presence is peace.

In His presence is strength.

In His presence is comfort.

In His presence is wise counsel and wisdom.

In His presence is compassion.

In His presence is divine power.

In His presence is an ever-present help.

In His presence are miracles.

For those of you who have been lied to a time or two and stand in doubt, I can assure you that God’s word is His bond. Deuteronomy 31:6 reads, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified…for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

You, my friend, are one loved soul. I have been sent to remind you to KNOW that you are safe, KNOW that you are covered, KNOW that you are never alone.

Today, I challenge you to find your quiet place. Press pause for a bit. Get into God’s presence and grab a hold of the reassurance you need to go a little further on your journey. How will you know His voice, you ask? His voice is still. His voice is also quiet. His words are gentle. When He speaks, you will know.

Jesus said, “Remain in me, and I will remain in you” (John 15:4). You are never too far from Him. It is literally up to us, however, to turn down the noise.

As I encourage you, I encourage myself.

Stay sweet,

Takelia

Happy New Year Everyone!!!

This is literally my first post since last year. I know! I know! It’s been a while.

If you’re anything like me, you know what it’s like to get lost is the hustle and bustle of life. It happens; But when it does, the message I have for you today is that it is perfectly okay to Begin Again!

Most of us would probably agree that 2020 was an interesting year. Who knew that many of us would become unemployed, work from home, home school our kids, or have to wear a mask for a simple grocery store run, as if life wasn’t already hectic. Geesh! We’ve all had to adjust to quarantine living…got dishes?

In the midst of all of this, some of us started businesses, podcasts, launched websites, and published books. Some of us we were afforded the opportunity to make steps toward accomplishing goals that we put on the back-burner because we simply didn’t have the time to do so. Some of us discovered passions we didn’t know exist until now. Some of us began projects; projects long passed due because of procrastination, fear or failure, or simply because we doubted our own ability to get the project done. Nonetheless, during such a time as this, we’ve started that thing which God laid upon our heart to do.

How does all of this happen during a pandemic? How do you juggle home life, work life, school, homework, zoom meeting after zoom meeting, host your podcast or Facebook live, manage your website, and maintain your own business all at the same time? Where does the energy come from? How do you sustain this beautiful thing you have created when there’s so much going on all at once? I repeat, there’s so much going on.

On last year, I successfully launched this website, reestablished my social media presence, and self-published my first children’s book, “The Little Bear in a Boat” all by the month of May. I had even began my first Facebook group, “My Beauty is Forreal”, a group created to help women understand and honor their self-worth. I mean I really felt as though I was fulfilling my heart desires and things were great. However, when I sat down to reflect in December, I realized that I had not maintained any of what I enthusiastically began at the beginning of the year. My goal was to thrive, get many followers, sell lots of books in a short amount of time, and just live my best life.

Well, when I realized that most of what I started had been left undone, I immediately began to feel like I failed. I felt as though I failed at maintaining my website. My Facebook account was hacked so I felt as though I lost connection with the network that I diligently worked to build. Not to mention, my Facebook group came to a halt because I no longer had access to my account. While books were still selling, I felt as though I could do more to increase sales. I felt as though I dropped the ball. I began thinking, “People must notice.” I wondered what people may have been saying or thinking. A complete no, no, right? (No pity party you guys, I promise this is going somewhere.)

Have you ever felt like this before? Perhaps, your story is similar to mine in a sense that you began a “thing or things” with great momentum but somehow, someway, you veered off track. Maybe you burned out or needed a mental break. Maybe you failed to plan out how you would stay true to your diet, stay on top of the bills, or break that habit. Maybe you started a task and it completely flopped. If you find yourself any of these categories, I’m here to encourage you to Begin Again!

Yes, 2020 may have been a bit krazy. Everything may not have gone the way you wanted them too but, it is not too late to hit the reset button. God has so graciously blessed each of us with the gift of life by granting our eyes to open and BEGIN a brand new day. Each day we are given the opportunity to start over. I don’t mean to sound “churchy” but, God’s grace and mercies are NEW everyday so what didn’t get done on yesterday, you are blessed with today to get it done. Use it!

Use this day to pick up where you left off.

Use this day to recreate what you’ve already created.

Use this day to breathe life back into that project. Speak life to that “thing” again!

Don’t allow guilt or shame to hinder you from moving forward NOW. 2021 has already made its grand entrance and some of us have already thrown New Year’s Resolutions out the window for one reason or another. If this is the case, do not be afraid to pick up the baton and keep running. Stop beating yourself up about what didn’t get done. Stop beating yourself up because you may have fallen down. It takes a whole lot of courage to get back up and keep going. I want to remind you that you, yes you, have it inside of you to pick up the pieces and move forward. Move at your own pace. You are NOT in competition with anyone except yourself.

Before closing, I want to acknowledge that some of you may be dealing with far worse scenarios than the ones mentioned in this post, but the Word of God says “Be strong and courageous…He will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). Yes, there’s a lot going on but you are not alone. You and I may not have the answer to every question but we must be strong and courageous. Sometimes being strong and courageous isn’t all about showing physical strength; sometimes being strong and courageous is about being bold enough to face another day and daring to Begin Again.

Much love,

Takelia

P.S. I send condolences to anyone who has lost a loved one or loved ones during this pandemic. May God bless you with His peace that surpasses all understanding. For those of you that may have lost your home, job, or business, I pray that God restores. For those that may be wondering where your next meal is coming from, I declare that you shall NOT lack any good thing. To each of you, I pray that your strength be renewed. In Jesus name, amen.

Hey, hey, hey, guys! I didn’t plan on writing anything; I just thought it would be really good to have some God time before bed. The boys were asleep. The T.V. was turned off. The only sound that filled the room was the humming sound of the air condition. Pretty relaxing.

I grabbed my handy dandy book of devotionals called God’s Words of Life for Women. I flipped through the pages to find a scripture to focus on during my quiet time with the Lord. I browsed through the pages not exactly knowing what scripture to read. I turned to the table of contents and read each topic but I didn’t feel like any of the topics pinpointed my current spiritual/emotional state.

Before moving any further, let me give you a little history about my handy dandy devotional book. I’ve had this book for years. I can’t say the exact year I purchased it or even where I purchased it from. It’s been that long. But, what I can tell you is that since buying this book, it has taken a special place in my heart.

One of the things I love the most about the devotionals in this book is that each topic is relevant for any situation or circumstance you may encounter during life’s journey. Some of the topics include “Changes”, “Contentment”, “Finances” (hello somebody), “Perspective”, “Self-Worth”, and so many more really rich ones.

One of my fondest memories of referring to this book was when I experienced a period of anxiety and depression. I’d often refer to this book for at-hand scriptures. If you’re anything like me, you don’t always know where to begin in the bible. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit lives within us and knows what we need and intercedes on our behalf. On days and nights that I found myself wrestling with anxiety and/or panic attacks, this devotional book helped me navigate my way through the Word of God.

Getting back on track, tonight, unlike any other times, I picked up my book and was led to the topic “Encouragement”. In this particular section, I noticed that there was not as many scriptures provided compared to the other topics I had read. The topic “Encouragement” had only six scriptures. At the closing of each topic is an inspirational passage providing insight from profound women like Rosa Parks, Emilie Barnes, and Joni Eareckson Tada to name a few.

I believe the topic “Encouragement” stood out to me the most because it’s something that I’ve found myself searching for the past couple of weeks. Have you ever given someone encouraging words during a time YOU needed it also? Many times the same words you pour into others are the same words you need poured into yourself.

Out of the six scriptures given, Proverbs 12:25 stood out most stating, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.” That’s powerful, right? How many of you have ever found yourself anxious about a situation that you had absolutely NO control over? Please tell I am not alone. You’ve found yourself feeling uneasy, concerned, or restless about a family matter, deadline at the job or school, bad report from the doctor, or the bills keep coming with no money in your pockets. You’ve had to make decisions like decide whether to buy food to eat or put gas in your car so that you could make it to work the next day. You’ve had to decide whether to pay your car note or the light bill. You’ve been afraid that the repo man would show up at your house like a thief in the night to take away the vehicle you just gassed up for work in the morning.

You’ve felt like there’s no way out and that the walls are closing in. You’ve felt like there’s no way to break free; no way to shake the unbearable feeling of distress. You’ve needed someone to talk to but did not know of anyone who’d listen without judgement. On the flip side, you may have had someone who’d listen and not judge but you’ve thought, “I don’t want to be a burden to anyone. They have burdens of their own.” You’ve even talked yourself out of casting your cares upon God. You think to yourself, “Why bother? I told God last week John John wasn’t good for me and he and I are supposed to be linking up later. This isn’t right. I know I shouldn’t but…” You suffer in silence. You are the “anxious man”.

I am so glad that the God I serve is a Certified Code Breaker. He has shown up for me too many times for me to keep quiet about who He is and who He can be in your life.

Yes, “An anxious heart weighs a man down”, but the good news is that “a kind word cheers him up”. Trust me, the Lord knows how to reach us. He is faithful to deliver that “kind word” to His children. Your kind word may be via phone call, text message, voicemail, in-person visit, Facebook post, Instagram video, Tweet, or a Heart to Heart blog.

The true and living God is indeed a Wonderful Counselor. He knows what we need and when we need it. When there’s no one else you feel you can turn to, turn to Jesus. When you feel there’s no way out, turn to Jesus. When you find yourself warring on the battlefield of the mind, turn to Jesus. Sometimes all we have are our tears and brokenness but God will Not turn us away. Sometimes all we have are our broken promises, but He promises to NOT turn away from us. Sometimes all we have are our confused thoughts. Still come to Jesus.

The scripture says “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). Time and time again, we are encouraged to bring our issues, bring our burdens, bring our ups and bring our downs to the Lord. No matter what the situation is, big or small, you do not have to suffer in silence.

Somebody, like me, needed to know that God sees you. He’s a good, good, Father. Somebody somewhere has a heavy heart and its been weighing them down. Somebody needs a “kind word”.

A kind word can deliver you.

A kind word can lift you up.

A kind word can stop a suicide attempt.

A kind word can change a frown upside down.

A kind word can bring calm to your storm.

I pray that the power of Jesus Christ will break the chains of your bondage and set you free. Receive your “kind word” this day and CHEER UP!

From my heart to yours,

Takelia

Happy Sunday guys! Today’s message is a continuation of a post that I shared on social media. If you follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, you’ve heard my testimony about “The Flat Tire Experience” I had with the actual tires on my car, but I learned through a dream that this flat tire nightmare I seemed to be having, had greater meaning. I wonder how many of you may be having a “flat tire experience” in your life and not know it.

For about a year, I struggled with tire issues. I mean it wasn’t too serious at first. We all have a slow leak from time to time, right? Well, my flat tire experiences became more and more frequent throughout the year. The more I encountered these slow leaks and complete flats, the more frustrated I became because with each occurrence there were delays. Some mornings, I was delayed getting my son to school. Some days, I was delayed getting to work. Some days, even after work, I was delayed in getting home because I had to get help from a co-worker to make it to the air pump. There were other times that I had to completely remove the flat and replace it with the spare. In such cases I felt like I was delaying someone else from getting to their destination. I mean it was horrible.

Financially, I couldn’t afford to get all new tires so I replaced them with used tires to get me from point A to point B. The used tires carried me over for a while but it wasn’t long before those tires needed air as well. In March of this year, I found myself in a better place financially and could finally afford to replace all four tires with a new set of wheels. Praise God! It took some time, but my prayer was definitely answered. I mean not only was I able to get the tires I badly needed, I was also able to choose a set of rims that I wanted. Can we say, Bonus!!!

Now, I’m riding smooth and my flat tire nightmare is over. At least, until I dreamed that I had four flats. OMG! Ya’ll the dream felt so real. In the dream, I had woken up, walked outside, and seen that the tires on my car was completely deflated. I was kneeling down beside the tire and I can remember feeling helpless and frustrated as I looked in disbelief. The feeling I felt in the dream was all too familiar. I thought I had escaped from dealing with the dreadful feeling of being delayed. When I woke up from the dream, I sat up in bed, shook my head, and thought, “What in the world?”

I’m no dream interpreter but I definitely wanted to know more about the meaning of flat tires. What I learned, after looking up several interpretations, was that tires are more important than I’ve ever really thought about. In fact, they are just as important as the transmission and motor in the car. You can have both a quality transmission and engine but without the tires you could not go anywhere.

Tires get us from one place to the next. The car, itself, is nothing without the wheels. One of the common threads that all of the interpretations had was that tires hinder progress. And if not pumped back up or changed, the tire or tires will eventually bring you to an absolute stop.

In life, we all get a flat tire and if you haven’t, I will say like the older folks say here in the South, “just live a little while longer.” A flat tire experience in life can be financial circumstances, unhealthy relationships, health issues, job loss, anxiety and depression, procrastination, so on and so forth. Anything that hinders you from fulfilling your God given purpose can be your flat tire.

As crazy as it may sound, we can sometimes hinder ourselves from making the necessary steps to get to the next level in our lives. Yes, sometimes, WE are our own flat tire. Lack of discipline, self-control, and consistency, are some of the most common flat tires that hinder personal growth. Don’t get me wrong, there are times in life when it feels we’ve ran low– ran low on ideas and creativity, ran low on funds to move your project from one phase to the next. There are times when we lose momentum but the word of God says, “do not grow weary in well doing” (Galations 6:9).

Whenever you feel like your tire pressure is running low, increase and power-up in the Word of God. The Word works! Let your faith be your fuel. Don’t grow weary. Don’t get frustrated. Trials and tribulations may come, but you will arrive to your destination right on time. When God has purposed you to fulfill a thing, you can count on Him to get you from point A to point B. We all have a part to play. Yes, we fall short every single day but thank God that His grace and mercy is renewed also every single day.

I want to encourage you today just in case you’re in the middle of your “flat tire experience”. You are not alone. So many times, I found myself on the side of the road watching everyone else ride on by. So many times, I found myself sitting on the side-lines waiting for someone to help with a spare so that I could go a little further. If this is you, be of good courage! Remember that your Help is on the way. Your Help is closer than you may think or feel. It may look like others are passing you along the way. If so, don’t worry about it. Your destination awaits YOU. There aren’t any detours, stops, or hindrances that will ever change that. What God has for you, is for YOU.

God’s favor is REAL! You may have had to pull over a time or two, but when you get there, you will be RIGHT ON TIME! I pray this message blesses you and that you find peace during your “flat tire experience.” Keep calm. Breathe. Pray. You’re well on your way!

Much love,

Takelia

Hello there! I don’t know about you, but I really like the sound of something new: new clothes, new shoes, even the new shoe smell, new accessories, new house, new job. I get so excited when I hear the announcer on the hit daytime television show, The Price is Right, say, “You’ve won a brand NEW car!” The curtain is pulled back, the prize is revealed, and the winner leaps for joy right before claiming or taking hold of their winning. I mean I absolutely love it. The “newness” of things stretches far beyond materialistic items. After reading this post, my hope is that you will gain a new perspective on where you are right now in your life and begin celebrating where you are heading.

For starters, let’s look at the terms “new” and “beginning”. The term “new” is defined as something recent, fresh, modernized, restored, having but lately come to a place, position, status, etc. The term “beginning” means to come into existence, arise, originate, activate, or establish…the list goes on.

We all have reached a place of “new beginning” at some point in our life. To the 2020 high school and college graduates, you’re at a point of “new beginning”. To the individual that was laid-off for one reason or another, you’re at a place of “new beginning”. To the woman or man going through the divorce, you’re in a position of “new beginning”. Some of us are changing career paths or leaving one position for a higher position; nonetheless, it’s a “new beginning”. Somebody’s transitioning from living at home with parents with little to no responsibility to having their own place and all the responsibilities that come along with it. Somebody’s a new parent with a new baby and they’re adjusting to parenthood. A new beginning!

If we can be real, as exciting as receiving and/or obtaining that “new” thing can be, it can also seem daunting. Can you remember a time when you should have been leaping for joy over something; instead your bones rattled with fear because of the uncertainty of that thing; a fear of the unknown?

Well, when I graduated from college, I can remember being greeted with the old “Welcome to the Real World” phrase. Omg! The “Real World”, to me, sounded so BIG, so intimidating. I mean, I had mix emotions about that thing because it seemed as though I had more thinking to do in regards to where and how I was going to fit into this “Real World”. Will I fit? Will I get the career I want? Will I be good at it? While I should have been celebrating, I sometimes found myself fretting.

While some circumstances can be more strenuous than others, do not fear your “New Beginning”. Isaiah 43:19 states, “Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it?” (NKJV). The Lord, our God, want to do a new thing for us, but too many of us are afraid to leave our place of familiarity. When we leave our place of familiarity it takes us outside of our comfort zone, making us uncomfortable and even vulnerable. Too many of us are hung up on hindrances that won’t allow us to accept and embrace the blessings God have for us.

God is waiting to pull back the curtain. He’s waiting to take us to the next level. He’s ready to restore that which has been broken. He is calling us out of our wilderness. He’s ready to renew our strength. He wants to give us the desires of our heart but He says, “Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old” (Isaiah 43:18). The word “consider” is important here because to “consider” something is to think carefully about it before making a decision.

Each day, we are given a fresh start. Before our feet hit the floor, we have a choice to make. We must choose to do something new!

Choose to walk in the renewal of your mind.

Choose to be different.

Choose to make a difference.

Choose to activate your faith.

Philippians 3:12-14 reads:

Not that I have already attained, or am perfected; but I press on that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do no count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (NKJV).

No matter where you are right now in life, I encourage you to press. I encourage you to reach. I encourage you to lay hold of what God has for you. Get ready for your overflow. Go ahead and dance like David danced!

It is a new day! It is a new season!

Your “New Beginning” starts now!!! 🙂

From my heart to yours,

Takelia Hammett