Faith Filled Stilettos

Welcome to the September/October Edition of FFS!

2011-01-01T22:25:00.025-05:00

...Finding self-worth is sometimes the hardest thing for women to do. We wait for others to validate us, instead of knowing it's okay to validate ourselves....

This month, in Faith Filled Stilettos, we wanted to do something different and introduce YOU as our featured cover person for this issue. You may be asking, "How does that work?" Simple. We've come up with a few questions we'd like for you to answer honestly and share with other women why self-love is so important. Our society is plagued with so much hurt and pain that it may be hard to receive the love God has for us, but that doesn't mean it isn't there.

It's time for women to fight for the love they deserve and it starts with first loving yourself!

Start your interview now!

Also In This Issue (Click links to go to article):

A Note From The Editor: Whose Loving You?

Let's Talk About It: "No More Babies?"

The Lifted Lady

Flawless Every Time...

Managing The Stress In Our Temples

After The Music Stops, Mali Music

Removing The Clutter

A Night To Remember

A Writer's Legacy

Don't Stop The Love

Black Book Clubs Rock Awards

Whose Loving You?

2009-09-14T11:00:00.001-04:00

"I love you..."

How do you feel when these three words are spoken to you by your spouse, your children, your friends, or a stranger? What about when the person whose hurt you the most proclaims their undying love for you all within the same breath? Do you get a warm tingling feeling or does contempt and hate course through your veins?

Growing up, I found love to be nothing more than a catch phrase people said out of habit. For me, it held no more weight than someone sneezing and the automatic response being, "God bless you." I felt I drifted through life with a disadvantage, because if I didn't know love then how could I have loved myself? It took a lot of self-reflection but I realized the reason why I never received love was because I simply didn't know.

As women, we are the ones helping others gain better position throughout life. We push, fight, cry, scream, and tear down barriers for our family and friends, but in the midst forget to fight for ourselves. How can we properly display love to those around us if we neglect to show love to ourselves?

So, I made this issue about YOU. I wanted you to take the time to reflect on those things that have shaped your thinking on love, what does it mean to you, and are you loving yourself as the bible clearly demonstrated in 1 Corinthians 13?

1 Corinthians 13 (The Message)

1 Corinthians 13
The Way of Love
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.
8-10Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.

11When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.

12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

13But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.

At the end of this journey, when someone asks, "Whose loving you?" I want you to boldly say, "I am," and mean it.

Loving you because I am learning to love me,

My Interview

2009-09-14T10:42:00.000-04:00

Hi Faithful! Thank you for agreeing to be interviewed for Faith Filled Stilettos Magazine. Below are the questions I’d like for you to answer honestly. Place your answers in the comment box below. I appreciate your willingness to share your thoughts with us.

1. Tell us about the last time someone told you they loved you. Did you believe them?

2. When people go through difficult relationships they often carry around “baggage” that keeps them from moving forward? What advice would you give to someone who wants to love, but is afraid to? Then ask yourself, are you carrying around any baggage?

3. When was the last time you did something nice for yourself? If it’s been awhile, please tell us why.

4. Finish this sentence. A woman’s value is determined by…?

5. Finish this thought. I really want to learn to love again, but…?

6. If you had a continuation to the question above, tell us why you feel it's so hard to give/receive love?

7. Do you love yourself? Why or why not?

8. Read all the answers to the questions above. Have you written anything about yourself that comes to you as a surprise?

9. Tell us one thing you will do differently today that will help you learn how to love yourself.

September's Issue of Let's Talk About It: No More Babies?

2009-09-14T10:01:00.000-04:00

Q: Your spouse really wants to have another child, but you feel it's not a good idea. Is it okay to tell your spouse you don't want anymore children?

Leave your comments!!

After The Music Stops, Mali Music

2009-09-14T01:22:00.004-04:00

Who is Jamaal "Mali Music" Pollard?

Jamaal "Mali Music" Pollard is truth in music. The Savannah-based singer, songwriter, producer is breaking out of the box of traditional gospel music. Jamaal began playing piano at age 5, and wrote his first song at 8. Since age 11, he has been actively pursuing his music ministry and career, and has added acoustic guitar and electric bass to his instrumental expertise. His love for music is largely influenced by legendary music lovers like Sam Cooke and Otis Redding. His sound, heavily inspired by the work of musical geniuses Bilal and D'Angelo, is free, boundless and uninhibited. Jamaal serves as Minister of Music at Faith on the Move Ministries, and though he remains unrestricted as a musician and artist, his passion lies in creating powerful, effective Christian music that stretches its genre.

In 2006, Jamaal founded Mali Music Note Productions, and February 2008 yielded the release of the highly anticipated first CD: The Coming. Having sold more than 5,000 hard copies to date, the project is comprised of smash singles such as "Avaylable", "No Musick", and "I Hate You" gaining the interest of several Contemporary Gospel hit-makers. Already an internet success, the live acoustic version of Mali's "Avaylable" boasts nearly 56,000 YouTube hits. His MySpace page has over 170,000 hits, increasing by the thousands daily. Stretching the boundaries of Contemporary Christian, The Coming displays Mali's extensive vocal and production versatility, and his God-given ability to reach any audience. His bold, unique sound and gift for musical storytelling has captured audiences across the country. Following his project release, Mali immediately began national appearances, performing shows in select US cities. His tour includes events at Southeastern Historically Black Colleges and Universities, World Changers International Youth Conferences and Showcases at the Gospel Music Workshop of America. Moreover, he recently sealed the deal with rising independent recording label, Sound Walk Music Group.

Along with being a phenomenal performer, Mali Music is an accomplished producer and actor. He currently has production and vocal credits on recent CD releases, Travis Greene's The More and Laura Wilson's Nayshon Shaka. In 2007, he landed the lead role in the Savannah College of Art and Design produced film "Linked", and scored its soundtrack. With well over 100 songs in his portfolio, Mali is credited with scoring two gospel stage plays, Urban Resurrection in 2005 and Zion's March in 2006 becoming a local legend in the Christian community. In April 2008, he shared the stage with the ever popular Gospel artists Tye Tribbett, and Da Truth, and his fast growing success earned him an invitation perform at the birthday bash for Deon Kipping, hosted by the legendary Natalie Wilson in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Mali recently went into collaboration with veteran artist Evelyn Turrentine Agee and will write, produce and perform with Ms. Evelyn on her upcoming project, Double Edge. Summer 2008, provided Mali many open doors, he shared the stage with national recording artists Integrity's Lisa McClendon and Arrow Records' Canton Jones. Mali recently opened for shows Deitrick Haddon, Darlene McCoy and 21:03.

In the Mali Music Note Productions Studio, Mali both produces and writes for and collaborates vocally with singers E. Hall and Chelsea, Christian rapper Mr. Del. of Nu Soul Records Additionally, he often produces alongside like-minded visionaries Zion and Ramon "Drum-Ducer" Gaskin.

Ever seeking to enhance his craft, Mali continually studies, increasing his knowledge of music theory. His desire to build his musical repertoire is undying as he is constantly reading, writing, finding new music software, and experimenting with diverse vocal styles. His musical gift is evident and undeniable in The Coming. As his genius grows, Jamaal "Mali Music" Pollard is sure to unforgettably impact the world.

Lutonya M. Lang is the founder of Industry Buzzz.com Media Outlet, a platform of Hope, Vision and Purpose. To learn more about Lutonya please visit her official webiste at www.industrybuzzz.com.
Copyright 2009. All rights reserved by Lutonya M. Lang. Used with permission for Faith Filled Stilettos Online Magazine.

Don't Stop The Love

2009-09-14T00:41:00.002-04:00

Have you noticed that now that Valentine’s Day is history you have made being in and demonstrating love a mystery? Your unexpected kisses have been kicked to the curve. The peace has passed away. Your loving words of encouragement and compassion have quickly crept away like a thief in the night.

But just because Valentine’s Day is over and you received (or did not receive) the gifts that you desired, should the love stop? No way! As Keith Sweat sings (or begs)…Don’t Stop Your Love!

Real love is more than an action. It is an attitude. It is universal. Love is unending. And most importantly, love is unconditional.

We tend to race to find love on a two way street of honesty, humility, communication and commitment. But then we quickly lose it on the highway of selfishness, loneliness, boredom or trying to live out other peoples’ expectations for our relationship.

However, you can find those loving feelings again when you:

• Think about what your life would be like without the one you love-Tomorrow is not promised, so cherish people and love them every single day.

• Refuse to allow life’s frustrations interrupt your communication-Life will always bring seasons of both joy and pain. Communicate your honest feelings with your loved one in both seasons no matter how painful.

• Implement the 3-“F” factors in your relationship-The 3-“ F” factors include faith, focus and fun. Have faith and believe the best about your loved one. Focus on maintaining healthy emotional and spiritual support towards your mate. Lastly, have fun with the one you love. A good laugh goes a long way.
If you have stumbled in your love walk towards your spouse, significant other or even family and friends, you can start to truly love again. When you truly have real love for someone, then every day should be special. Just because Valentine’s Day has passed, don’t stop your love but try to make it last forever.

Tanya White is a Freelance Writer, Relationship/Lifestyle Enhancement Coach/Author/Radio Host. For more information about Tanya’s writing, books or to be a guest on her radio show Real Talk With Tanya White, please visit http://www.tanyawhite.com/.

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved by Tanya White. Used with permission for Faith Filled Stilettos Online Magazine.

A Writer's Legacy

2009-09-13T22:50:00.003-04:00

Tip 1) Create a Business Plan

Just as with any other endeavor, you need a business plan for writing your book.
The business plan can be simple. Why, who, when and what are the questions you should answer. Why are you writing? Who is writing? When will you do it? What will you write about? Create clear and concise goals, set timeframes and create an outline for your book.

In your business plan, determine if you will self publish or if you plan to query publishing houses with your project. Be prepared to explain what you are doing in two minutes or less if asked. What do you hope to accomplish? Are you writing to become famous, for edification of others or simply for personal pleasure?

Lastly create a team, an editor, publicist, attorney, printer and tax consultant. These are the people that will be most important to your literary business.

*************************************************************************************

Tip 2 Industry Education

By now you have a degree or two, and these days to write a book you don't need a degree. We do suggest however, you have some knowledge of the industry and what it takes to become a literary entrepreneur.

Attend workshops, writer's conferences and seminars on publishing each year. This is how you attain 'continuing education' and learn new techniques while networking with your industry counterparts. Be sure to take part in literary events and networking functions to meet with others in the business who can share resources and information.

Make sure you join a writer's group in your area and join a few online groups also. This will allow you to engage in real conversation and active work on a consistent basis. Be prepared to help others as you move up the literary ladder also!

Sherie Clark Brooks is the founder of Writer's Legacy (Writing Group, Annual Writer's Conference Host) and also the author of 25 Steps to Becoming a Star Writer & Her Alabaster Box (Keeping God's Gifts Sacred). For additional questions/info send email to writerslegacy@yahoo.com.

A Night To Remember with Tonya Blount

2009-09-13T22:38:00.003-04:00

We're a few days away from the deadline of our early tickets purchase for "A Night to Remember with Tonya Blount." If you haven't purchased your tickets yet and plan on attending, this is a gentle reminder.

A Night To Remember with Tonya Blount is a fundraiser event for her organization, Leave the Wilderness, Inc., so your ticket purchase is tax-deductible. All proceeds for this event will go toward Bertha Mae's Place, a Brooklyn, New York based home for battered women and children. The home is named after Tonya's late mother.

The black-tie gala will be held on Friday, November 6, 2009 at 7:00pm - Midnight. We have special performances by Melba Moore, Karen Bernod, and yours truly will perform with the harp. We have special guest speakers: Dominic Carter, NY1 news reporter and host, NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg's Official, Sally MacNichol, Director of Programs at Connect NYC, Dr. Alfred Phillips, and many more.

If you are unable to attend, please consider sponsoring one of the survivors that will be attending, or you can donate $20.00 and be listed as a Friend of Leave the Wilderness, Inc., in the program journal. For $100 your company, name can be displayed as the table sponsor. Any contribution will be greatly appreciated.

During the event, we will be remembering those women that have lost their lives because of domestic violence by honoring them in "Remember Me," a video tribute that will be shown.

Please visit http://www.anighttoremembertb.com/ for more details, location of the event and to purchase tickets. The event is 10 minutes from LaGuardia Airport. Crowne Plaza and Comfort Inn are also ten minutes away.

Tonya Blount is the Founder/Executive Director, Leave the Wilderness, Inc. and also the new Editor-In-Chief of Having Church For Women Magazine. Tonya will be our featured columnist dealing with the issue of domestic violence and provding solutions for women who have experienced this pain.

Removing The Clutter

2009-09-13T22:24:00.002-04:00

Do you have a closet that no one is allowed to open? I wonder why not. Is it full of junk and you keep telling yourself you are going to use one day? Just like cleaning out the closet, at times we need to do a spiritual and emotional cleaning. In order for God to bring His blessings into our lives, we must decide to get free of some excessive baggage that we have held on to. Carrying to much emotional baggage is unhealthy and unwise.

After a relationship has ended, we tend to hold on to old feelings and material possessions. This are called “soul ties”. Soul ties must be broken. Holding on to past issues, feelings and even gifts will continue to connect you with that broken relationship.

I must tell you to remove the clutter. Gather all those emotions and personal belongings and get rid them. It’s not that easy, you say. Trust me I know. It is a process but you must move in that direction. Each day decide to rid yourself of something that you know is not beneficial to your emotional and spiritual well being. What you get rid of, God will replace.

Question for today: Is what I’m holding on to helping me grow and mature in Christ, if the answer is No, you know what to do.

Be blessed.

Paulette Harper as our I Can Begin Again columnist. She is also the author of That Was Then, This Is Now. To learn more about Paulette, please visit her official website www.bvministry.org.

The Lifted Lady

2009-09-13T22:11:00.003-04:00

It is amazing to me how several of the most coveted positions (in the church and in the secular world) appear, from the outside view, to carry great grandeur and few tribulations. However, this is a great misconception. Many desire to carry the titles of honor, but they truly do not understand the reality of the burden that comes with these positions. I would like to take the opportunity to focus on a particular person who lives in this realm of reality. She operates on the front line of ministry, and she often has to take hard hits from the very people that she serves. She is a misunderstood victim of jealousy and betrayal, yet she is expected to wear her smile like a tiara won in a pageant. In the midst of her hurt, she must wipe away her tears to help mend the hearts of those that were the ones who made her cry in the first place. I am referring to the precious woman known as the pastor’s wife. She is most affectionately known by many as “The First Lady”. My husband often says that people with problems are simply looking for solutions. I desire to shed some light on some of the perils that the first lady faces, and to offer some solutions to help lift her burden.

First, I deem it necessary to define the role of the pastor’s wife. Although each pastor may have his own expectations of his wife, there are some roles that remain consistent across the board. This valuable jewel must meet the personal needs of the pastor as his aide, his wife, his lover, the mother of his children, and his friend. In essence, she is expected to keep him happy. She may be required to counsel with members, minister the Word, minister in music, and oversee ministry areas. It may be necessary for her to maintain the business affairs of the church, make peace where there is strife, and be the main intercessor to keep the church before God in prayer. To the public eye, it may seem as though she merely dresses nicely and sits on the front pew of the church. Conversely, behind the scenes, she works harder than people will ever know.

She is much more than a trophy to adorn the arm of the pastor, but she is his partner in ministry. She must be willing to be his confidante and to allow him to be transparent without judging him. For contrary to belief, the pastor is not perfect. She is often in the difficult position of seeing him at his weakest point. However, because of her loyalty and love for him, she must maintain his integrity before the people. She must be diplomatic, kind, and willing to offer a nurturing perspective when needed. So, after she has given everything of herself, what is left for her?

Usually, a great deal of suffering is her “reward”. Have you ever had to pray for an enemy or someone who has hurt you? This is a real portion of her daily reality. There are women that despise her, not because she has provoked them, but simply because she is the pastor’s wife. Her title alone may be a source of contention. Many will talk about her, betray her, and even attempt to take the pastor’s attention away from her. She has to pray for the woman that she knows is trying to sleep with her husband (or vice versa), while maintaining her grace and stature. She is required to offer a kind word to the people that mistreat her. She must maintain composure when people acknowledge the pastor and ignore her. Are you beginning to feel her pain yet? Ugly truth isn’t it? Yet, there is still more. She is often subjected to having people in her space that may threaten her and her family. She is never really sure of who she can trust because many people that reach out to her only want to get close to the pastor. Not, I assure you, because they love him, but because they want something from him. She may not feel comfortable sharing her pains with the pastor because of all that he faces in his role. Thus, she is left to carry her burdens alone, and suffer in silence. It is easy to see why she may feel isolated and devalued.

At this point in our discussion, you probably want to know the solution to this problem. Well, it is my prayer that the readers of this column are pastors, church members, pastor’s wives, and women in ministry. If you fall into either category, then this information is important for you. I am going to give you a few tips, many based on experience, to help lift the first lady into her rightful place of honor, as opposed to breaking her spirit and wounding her. Each one of our discussions will focus on some area in which change is imminent. I hope that you, the reader, will focus on your obligation towards healing those ladies in your life that are hurting and bleeding. Prayerfully, you will take a serious look at your role in their pain and become proactive in ceasing it. I warn you that we will discuss some difficult issues, but together we will get through them.

In conclusion, it is my prayer that lives will forever be changed, and hearts will be mended. Now is the season for the thrashing to end, and for the healing to begin. Here’s to the journey. It will definitely be an interesting one! God bless!

Keisha Mitchell is theFirst Lady of Resurrection Life Christian Center in Richmond, VA where her husband, Nathan Micthell, is the senior pastor and founder. To learn more about this ministry or to invite Lady Keisha to be a part of your event, please visit www.rlcc.info.

Managing The Stress In Our Temples

2009-09-13T21:58:00.002-04:00

Have you ever had those days when you just wanted to throw your hands in the air and give up? I know the feeling because I have rough days, too. The burden of stress falls on all of us and although it can be challenging, it is something we must all face. I would like to share some faith-based information and stress management techniques that I hope will help you cope with the stress in your lives.

When something has a negative impact on us, we evaluate the problem. If the skills we have outweigh the demands, we may not deem the situation as stressful. If we decide that the demands of the situation outweigh the skills we have, then we determine the situation as stressful and react with the classic "stress response.” The body’s “fight or flight” reaction kicks in. This causes the release of adrenalin, a natural chemical in the body that sets off the first stage of the stress response. We may feel physical changes such as a rapid heart rate and breathing followed by anxiety. If our coping skills outweigh the demands of the situation, then we do not consider it as stressful. How individuals interpret and react to stress differs from one person to the next. Developing healthy methods of coping with stress are imperative to good physical and mental health. We have to remain mindful that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. The bible says “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that of the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” 1 Corinthians 3:16.” Despite all of the stress in our lives, faith in God can sustain us through those rough times and give us strength to endure and push forward. The bible also says, “Have faith and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.” Mark 11: 22-23.

After your daily prayer, following are a few other suggestions that you can add to your list to help reduce your stress.

• Delegation – Try to delegate some of your work load. Remember, you are only one person and you cannot do everything.
• Nutrition – Eat a well balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
• Rest – Adequate sleep is important for healthier functioning minds and bodies.
• Time For Yourself – Take time out for you. Do relaxing activities such as reading, meditating, or pursuing your own individual hobbies and interests.
• Exercise – An exercise program can be beneficial both mentally and physically. Do not begin a rigorous exercise program before checking with your physician first.
• Breathing Exercises – When you are having a “high-stress” day, take five minutes or more to close your eyes and inhale deeply and exhale slowly. This exercise will reduce muscle tension and help you manage that “fight or flight” response on your body.
• Talking – Discuss your concerns or worries with your spouse, family, and friends.
• Professional or Clergy Counseling – Never eliminate the option of counseling if stress continues to overwhelm you and it cannot be resolved after a reasonable period of time.

Many Blessings To You,
Patricia A. Bridewell

Patricia Bridewell is a registered nurse, adjunct professor of nursing, and new Christian Fiction author. She enjoys reading, music, and spending time with her family. Her website is www.patriciabridewell.com.

Flawless Every Time...

2009-09-13T20:58:00.003-04:00

Flawless Every Time…

Every stiletto has her secrets to her own personal style. These coveted secrets cannot be gleaned from the glossy magazines at the checkout stands in the grocery store or the latest best-selling guide to style.

The secrets to looking flawless from head to toe everyday lies in knowing yourself. You will automatically look pulled together if you know how to dress your body type. For instance, my five foot four inch frame is stunted by capri pants, but knee length dresses or sleek trousers with heels make my vertically challenged legs look endless. So, when I go shopping I automatically limit my choices to lengths that compliment my shape and frame. I NEVER allow anything into my closet that does not make me feel fabulous (NO MATTER HOW CHEAP IT IS!).

In this economy and with my hectic schedule, I have to be a good steward of my resources.I challenge all of you fabulous Stilettos to clean out your closets and rid yourself of anything that is not up to appropriate standards. Ask yourself these questions about each item: Does it fit correctly? Is it stained, pilled, damaged, or stretched? Does the color compliment me? Does this item fit with the rest of my wardrobe? How many outfits can I wear with it? Can anything benefit from a visit to a tailor? When you are done, sort the clothing into piles to donate, trash, recycle, or consign. You will feel so much better when you just let go of the mediocre threads and challenge your personal style to a higher level.

If you have any fashion or beauty questions or need advice, feel free to email me at fashionista@faithfilledstilettos.com. And until next time ladies, be mindful of what are you clothed in?

You're Invited To A Book Release Party!

2009-08-25T08:30:00.006-04:00

If your birthday is today, August 25th, please call in and celebrate with us! We may even have a surprise for you!

Write Now: Tip 3

2009-08-04T08:24:00.005-04:00

50 % of you stated writing a book is what you would do it you had the time. Well, FFS wants to give you the tools to help you get started. For the next 7 weeks we will reveal 7 Tips To Jumpstart Your Writing.

If any of you are authors or in the process of writing a book, share your best tips with us by leaving a comment. We appreciate any feedback and know our readers will too!

Tip #3

What's the big idea?: Ideas are an important part of stimulating your creativity for your writing project, but how do you keep track of them to help with your writing goals? One of my favorite devices is a voice recorder. Not only are then inexpensive to purchase, but they are convenient to carry around with you basically everywhere. Don't let that million dollar book idea or great thesis statement escape you because you don't have a pen and paper handy or a great memory. Plus, most cell phones come with a voice note feature. It doesn't get any easier than that. So what ideas have you captured today?

Check back next week for Tip #4 and if you have a great writing tip to share send it to write@faithfilledstilettos.com.

Marriage and Couples Seminar From Lady Keisha

2009-07-23T23:56:00.001-04:00

Write Now: Tip #2

2009-07-21T08:01:00.006-04:00

If any of you are authors or in the process of writing a book, share your best tips with us by leaving a comment. We appreciate any feedback and know our readers will too!

Tip #2

Setting Is Everything: For the most part you want to have a set location, such as your writing desk in your office, as your set location to write. You'll find over time where your creative flow seems to generate. For instance, most of my writing is done on my laptop in my bed. The purpose of having a set location is to help trigger your creative flow and generate ideas. As you build a stronger sense of connection with a place, the more it will inspire you to write. Sidebar: For many, writer's block hits hard so you might have to shake things up a little. Once you find your ideal location know you aren't obligated to stay there. Get up and go to the library or your favorite coffee shop. Sometimes a change in scenry does a writer good.

Check back Tuesday for Tip #3 and if you have a great writing tip to share send it to write@faithfilledstilettos.com.

Though Your Beginnings Be Small...

2009-07-17T12:37:00.006-04:00

With only four months under our belt, Faith Filled Stilettos is making an impact in the Kingdom that has reached beyond our virtual audience. Our newest contributor, Tonya Blount, has some exciting news to share. Please read the info below and remember Mark 4:27-29 (New King James Version) 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. 28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. Don't despise the blade.

Greetings to you!

I hope you are all enjoying your summer. I just returned with my son, Dario from beautiful Carolina, Puerto Rico. The trip was supposed to be my first vacation in five years, however, I ministered a few days and worked most of the trip. Still, it was great being able to lay in the sun and just RELAX a bit.

I'm writing because I have some exciting news to share. I was recently appointed Editor-in-Chief of "Having Church for Women" magazine. The magazine is a spin-off of "Having Church" magazine which has been in print for five years primarily on the east coast. "Having Church for Women" will be a 52 page, national bi-monthly publication with an initial circulation of 50,000. Our premiere issue is September/October 2009.

A few months ago, I was interviewed by Tifany Jones host of "Sistah Confessions." During the interview, I shared with Tifany that it was my desire that magazines across the country set their focus on domestic abuse. At the end of the interview, Tifany who recently launched her online magazine "Faith Filled Stilettos" answered the call and asked me to write a column each month in her magazine highlighting domestic abuse. After that interview, I became flooded with other requests to write a column for other magazines related to domestic abuse. I thought to myself "What have I done?" Then a few weeks ago, I was asked to take on this role. God and His perfection amazes me.

I will continue to be Executive Director of my organization, Leave the Wilderness and minister as God directs me. This new position, albeit demanding is very flexible and it will allow me to hire additional staff for my organization.

I recently tapped some of good friends who are also the best writers in the industry to bring forth the vision God has given me for this awesome magazine. Some of the contributors are:

Nathasha Brooks-Harris (contributing editor of "Today's Black Woman" magazine)
Tia Danzler (Make-up artist to Jennifer Hudson)
Dorothy Goins (Bestselling author)
Heather Covington (Publisher, "Disilgold" magazine)

I am currently looking for a part-time professional proofreader. 1 - 2 years industry experience a must. Please email your resume and cover letter to resurrectionpr@yahoo.com

Next week, I will be posting on Monster.com and Craigslist.com for the following positions:
Account Executive
Marketing Assistant
Research Assistant

Please contact my assistant Lisa Jackson at resurrectionpr@yahoo.com for further details and job descriptions if you are interested.

I'm so excited about our cover girl for this premiere issue...You all LOVE her and I think she represents the epitome of a Godly Woman. More details on the magazine, subscriptions, etc. will be available next week.

Thanks so much for your time.

Blessings,

Tonya Blount
Elder Tonya Blount
Founder, Leave the Wilderness
Tonya Blount Ministries
Office: 641-715-3900 ext. 70722
Blog: http://theresurrectionofme.wordpress.com
www.facebook.com/tonyablount
www.Twitter.com/tonyablount
www.myspace.com/tonyablount
www.tonyablountministries.org

The OMG Chronicles #5: WHY??

2009-07-10T13:48:00.004-04:00

The question: What is going on?

The situation: Pictures of Terrell Carter, the actor and singer from the Tyler Perry's plays, has recently surfaced with him in a few compromising positions with a MAN! That's right, a man. I don't think there is anything else left to say about that.

Church Girl Says: I know what most of you are thinking. "Isn't he that fine one that played the doctor in that play? You know the one where he is cheating on his wife and..." Yes, that is him. Apparently, his ex-lover wanted to seek revenge and posted images of the two online. Whoever said a picture is worth a thousand words wasn't lying!

While I an still trying to wrap my brain around this news I wonder if anyone suspected him to be suspect long before these pictures surfaced (umm I saw the REAL pics, that I won't share on this site, but it doesn't look good). I mean any attractive, well-dressed, well-groomed, and talented man has to have something wrong with him, right?

I can post endlessly about this news, but I will end with this... To ALL Men, you were fearfully and wonderfully made in the image and likeness of God. Nothing you do, alter, or mutilate will change the destiny God has planned for you. He built you to be a leader and told you to subdue and dominate the earth. You've been given authority to rule. Walk in the calling set before you as KING.

The Word: 1 Peter 2:8-10 (The Message)
The Stone
...They trip and fall because they refuse to obey, just as predicted.
9-10But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God's instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you—from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.

Get Your Passion Back!

2009-06-30T12:10:00.001-04:00

It started out with a conversation to self during a car ride and turned into a longing to have this desire I know most of us are missing out on. What is it? It is the passion to go after the things of God with my whole heart and I've decided that I no longer want to watch the race, but participate in it.

Now don't get me wrong, I am actively involved in the church and consider myself to be a good Christian, but still I felt something was missing. Each day I go through the formalities of How To Be A Christian 101, but lately I’ve found myself so consumed by daily life that my time with God seems robotic. I found myself rushing through prayer just to get to my next assignment or reading a snippet of scripture to complete my To Do List.

By the end of the day, I was exhausted and felt further away from God. So I had to ask myself what am I doing wrong? He clearly said,

Revelation 2:3-5 (The Message)
2-3"I see what you've done, your hard, hard work, your refusal to quit. I know you can't stomach evil, that you weed out apostolic pretenders. I know your persistence, your courage in my cause, that you never wear out.
4-5"But you walked away from your first love—why? What's going on with you, anyway? Do you have any idea how far you've fallen? A Lucifer fall!
"Turn back! Recover your dear early love. No time to waste, for I'm well on my way to removing your light from the golden circle.

So my challenge for the next 30 days is to fall in love with God all over again. I will journal my Passion Party as I travel down this path by way of scripture, meditation, and meaningful conversations with others who want to change their position and get their passion back!
If you’d like to join me, please leave a comment and tell us about how your zeal for God may have diminished and what you plan to do in these next 30 days to get it back.

The party starts today. Hope to see you there!

How Lily Ratliff Blossomed After The Rain

2009-06-30T11:37:00.002-04:00

I had the pleasure of interviewing Lily in May on my radio show Sistah Confessions. She enlightened us on God's faithfulness and the ability to forgives those, even when we feel they don't deserve it. Click here to listen to her confession exclusively given to FFS!

FFS: We were able to discuss quite a bit during our audio interview. What was one thing you wanted to say to our listeners, but did not have a chance?

I have a recent children’s book that has hit the market back in March of this year entitled The Last Shall Be First: An Act of Forgiveness. It is the first in a series of six books that is a modern day Fat Albert of sorts. This first book is about a little boy named Caleb. During one of Ms Frazier’s fifth grade bible lessons on forgiveness at Noah's Christian Academy, Caleb daydreams about his being constantly bullied by the school’s gang, who teases him after learning of his less than perfect living arrangements within a foster home. Even as well-kept as the home might be, it doesn't keep him away from those who refuse to see him as he really is. One day after being beat up by his aggressors, Leander and Marcus, Caleb decides to focus his attention towards keeping his grades in check while helping his favorite teacher with school chores and activities to get his mind off of the negativity these bullies bring to him and everyone around them. One day when the school's computer lab gets vandalized, it is now a test of character and forgiveness that Caleb must pass in order to see himself as a winner and first amongst him peers. But will his determination to succeed in school overshadow his willingness to forgive those who have despitefully used and abused him?

FFS: When people go through the difficulties of life, it becomes hard to recognize God’s love. How would you minister to someone who is in this situation?

I’m always reminded of the scripture, in Hebrews 12:1-2 which says, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Yes we all go through trials and tribulations. But the Lord wants us to quit worrying about them and cast it over to Him. Let Him fight your battles. For He sees the ending from the beginning! Because we are Kingdom Citizens, we can now be rest assured that we will get through our circumstances with flying colors. You don’t have to worry about your next meal or how your bills are going to be paid. The Lord sees your need, and will always provide for us, heal our sicknesses and diseases, and give us beauty for ashes! Hallelujah!

FFS: Tell us about your company Every Thing That’s Lily.

Everything That’s Lily, LLC was established December 12, 2007, after the publication of my book, The Life of a Lily. Generally an online book and inspirational jewelry business, it recently added a home party flair to it after the initial success of hand to hand transactions throughout the Atlanta area. Everything That’s Lily, LLC was formed to recognize all of the things that the owner, Lily, finds as favorites. Not only does the business offer the owner’s new book, The Life of a Lily, but also inspirational jewelry: bracelets, bookmarks, necklace and earring sets, watches, and key chains. We bring literature and style with the word of God together to create a sense of fashion for everyone who loves jewelry, but also doesn’t mind being reminded of the goodness of the Lord Jesus Christ! Let Lily’s personal favorites now be yours!

FFS: What are some keys to entrepreneurship a person must consider before beginning their venture?

First, you definitely should do your research. You want to be a visionary and stand out above the rest. Make sure what you want to sell or make a name for yourself is unique and targeted to the right audience. A well thought out business plan would work well here. Secondly, seek all of the ways to open your business, a. a great business name, b. whether you want sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or a limited liability company, c. seek bids for the business equipment, or products you may need. Don’t take the first thing that comes in your mailbox and think that it is a deal. Don’t be taken advantage of. Next, seek a good accountant to help you keep your business in check (help dot all I’s, cross all T’s). Finally pray. Seek God over everything pertaining to your business. Test the spirit by the spirit. If it’s not of God, don’t do it. In everything, make sure you are using your hands for the glory of God!

FFS: You have many projects planned for the future, with the most recent being featured in an anthology edited by Vanessa Miller. Tell us about your story and the experience behind it?

The story is called, “The Breakthrough”. It takes the scripture verse, Jeremiah 33:3, and chronicles the many facets of God’s glory through my childhood experiences and all of the trials and tribulations that I faced, and showed me how all of those situations were needed for my ultimate breakthrough to come forth. So many times we ask the question, “Why me?” not realizing “Why not you?” says the Lord. It takes going through the fire, to come to a place in Him where in you look back and smile and see just how far God has brought you from. This story is much different from my memoir, The Life of a Lily, because it gives an account to my present day reality of being in Atlanta, GA, and how I, now as an entrepreneur, have gained favor over man and God’s glory has truly been revealed within my business, Everything That’s Lily. It’s for all of those people who have wanted to start a business, but just don’t know how-and what to seek God for to make it happen for them. It’s a story you definitely do not want to miss!

FFS: Michelle McKinney Hammond is your favorite author. What about her inspires you?

When I was going through a terrible time in my life, I was truly on the brink of going out of my mind. I had no one to turn to; no help on either side, and needed something or someone to reach out to. I will admit, I was like so many other people in life that have been at a crossroads in life, that knew there was a God, and knew how to call on Him, but because of being spiritually blind to it, you end up seeking out things in the natural what should have been seeked spiritually. So while in a Christian bookstore one day, I ran across an author I had never heard before, Michelle McKinney-Hammond. The title of the book was Get a Love Life. This book truly changed my life. It helped me to see how God ultimately saw me. She showed her readers how to come back to their first love, Jesus, and learn to fall in love with Him, who is indeed the ultimate Husband. Jesus really knows how to do you right! Whew! J But from that point on, I had to read all of her books. Every one of them pruned me, shaped me and helped me to define my true worth as not only a woman, but a Woman of God. For that, I thank you Michelle!

FFS: If you could write a book with Michelle what would it be about and why?

I would love to work with Michelle in writing a focused book on single and/or working mothers to provide encouragement to all of those who have felt that because of their pasts, and the overwhelming responsibilities that have come with it, that they would never be able to obtain their goals, dreams, and desires, as powerful women of God. We (Michelle and I) could use the Word of God, showing examples of powerful women who were able to do it all despite the obstacles that were in front of them, and ultimately became victorious through God.

FFS: A woman’s shoes say a lot about her. What does your favorite pair say about you?

I’m so glad you asked! I am a lover of stilettos! I have quite an assortment of them in my closet. But the one pair that I love the most, is my Nine West Gisellan in reptile print. It’s classy, graceful, with a little spunk! I can say it better this way-- When you hear the name Lily, it represents all that I stand for: uncompromising, powerful, plethora of resources and abilities, standing tall, weathers every storm, but loves life, and the road not taken. When Lily steps into a room, all take notice, not because of her size, or the clothes that she’s wears, but because of the silent grace that she carries with her. It’s mysterious, and one that people want to get to know.

FFS: Love your answer to the shoe question. Sassy and spoken like a Faith Filled Stilettos. I actually had 1 more question I guess for me. I noticed that before you had longer hair and now it is short (which I love by the way). Was that a decision for image purposes or a statement that Lily has evolved?

At the time of taking the pic, I had just moved to Atlanta, my book was being released, and I wanted to sass it up a bit. Before I had cut it short and had the majority of my hair in blond highlights. So this move was definitely for statement purposes. Now my hair has grown out more into a bob and I am still contemplating re-cutting it. I have been really fighting with myself on a new hair style. What do you think everyone? Another short cut, or bobbed to the shoulder? Would love to have your comments!

To learn more about Lily or to help her decide on her hairstyle, please visit her official website http://www.thelifeofalily.com/.

Write Now: Tip #1

2009-06-30T11:20:00.005-04:00

If any of you are authors or in the process of writing a book, share your best tips with us by leaving a comment. We appreciate any feedback and know our readers will too!

Tip #1

Start On Purpose: Each day you should wake up at a certain time to begin writing. I've read that the first waking hour is the Golden Hour, where you concentrate and experience the most creativity. Test this out by commiting to wake up at a set hour and get started. It doesn't matter what you write at this point. What matters is the habit you a forming that will make your dream a reality!

Check back Tuesday for Tip #2 and if you have a great writing tip to share send it to write@faithfilledstilettos.com.

CMR's Ambassador's Statement

2009-06-30T11:12:00.003-04:00

**The statement released from Cross Movement Records**

Dear Body of Christ,

It is with much grief, severe disappointment and an overwhelming fear of the Lord that Cross Movement Records is sad to announce that we will be discontinuing the forwarding and promotion of the Artist and Minister, The Ambassador AKA William “Duce” Branch, due to recent findings of moral failure in his marriage. It is CMR’s past, current and prayerfully, future position that living in moral compromise is unacceptable and never allowable in the lives of any of the ministers that we co-labor with. We continue to hold up the teachings of Christ as the standard for all Christians and especially those in Christian leadership and public ministry. Although it is a rare find these days, discipline is still one of the true marks of the true Church.

That being said, we also know according to Hebrews 12:6 that “whom The Lord loves He disciplines.” So we know that our beloved brother Duce is under the Lord’s loving care (Hebrews 12:5-11). We at CMR solicit your prayers for him as he begins the uphill climb of restoration through the process of repentance. We also ask that you remember his wife and children in your quiet time with our Lord as well. We are reminded by Galatians 6:1, that we are to work toward the restoration of our dear brother in due season and also to do such in the spirit of meekness, considering ourselves lest we also be tempted.

Lastly, some that have had this circumstance announced to them through other sources have begun to suggest some type of cover-up or a sweeping under the carpet by CMR because of a slight delay in this statement versus the announcement that has already happened in William Branch’s church. This is the farthest thing from the truth. This matter was unbeknownst to CMR and upon discovery we have taken the proper time to speak with the Lord, The Ambassador, his church leadership and many other Christian leaders regarding this issue. After seeking wisdom and allowing the appropriate amount of time to make sure we had all the issues in full consideration, we have come forward as quickly as we were able to after completing this process.

In conclusion, we apologize for the effect that this may have on many who have followed and supported The Ambassador, Cross Movement and Cross Movement Records for many years. Despite this unfortunate occurrence, CMR and all of its artist/ministers continue committed, our resolve unaffected, with the mission of making the message of the Cross known to the world. Again, we ask for your prayers as we keep our hands to the plow, heal our wounded and worship the God of our Salvation. We remain Christ’s and your servant.

Sincerely,
John Wells
Pres/CEO
Cross Movement Records/ Issachar Media
Source: CMR Website

FFS wants to know what you think. Leave a comment and it could be featured in our next issue.

Do you have any Hot Topics you'd like to discuss? Drop us a line.

Business Spotlight: Bookmark It! Handcrafted Bookmarks

2009-06-30T10:28:00.001-04:00

Bookmark It! Handcrafted Bookmarks by Tanisha Webb is where you will find beautiful and unique bookmarks. These bookmarks will truly mark your books with style!Bookmark It! Handcrafted Bookmarks are beautiful, one of a kind, book jewelry made with attractive beads and suspended by a complimenting color ribbon. Because each Bookmark It! is handmade each bookmark is unique to itself.Bookmark It! Handcrafted Bookmarks are wonderful gifts for literary events, book giveaways, weddings, birthdays, graduations, appreciation gift or even a pamper gift for yourself!

Please visit the site at http://www.bookmarkit-bookmarks.com/.

Let us showcase your business. Email us and put Business Spotlight in the subject line!

Victoria Christopher Murray Revealed

2009-06-30T08:12:00.004-04:00

Victoria Christopher Murray is the Essence bestselling author of the novels Truth Be Told, Joy, Temptation, and Blessed Assurance, a collection of inspirational short stories.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Victoria during our interview and asked her the pop question, "What can you confess about yourself not many people know?"

Victoria's Confession: As a young child I thought I was Queen Elizabeth-literally! Listen Now!

To learn more about Victoria, wisit her at http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/.

If you'd like to confess to us, write to confession@faithfilledstillettos.com.

Meet God's Glamourous Girls, Rhythm and Praise

2009-06-30T03:15:00.003-04:00

FFS: Thank you for agreeing to this interview. Please introduce yourselves to our readers?

Alicia: Hello everyone! My name is Alicia Williams and I am 24 yrs. old. I am from Wilson, NC but have spent my adult life in Greenville, NC. I completed my Master’s of Social Work at East Carolina University in Greenville, NC in May 2008. I currently work as a Clinical Social Worker for a state psychiatric hospital where I encourage and counsel the patients and let them know life doesn’t end due to their mental illness. I am getting married to the love of my life, Henry Woods, on August 15, 2009. At this time I am simply loving life and enjoying the journey that God has set before me!

Paris:What’s up fam! My name is Paris Andrew. I was born and raised in Raleigh, NC and am currently wrapping up my Master’s Degree at North Carolina State University!

Tasha: Hello my name is Tasha Vaughn. I am 26 yrs. old. I am from Wilson, NC but have lived in Greenville as an adult. I completed by Bachelor’s of Arts in Health Education and Promotion at East Carolina University. I aspire to go back to school to get my Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

FFS: When did each of you start rapping?

Alicia: Well actually Paris is the only one that raps. I am a singer by nature and generally don’t rap unless I am just having fun and playing around. Paris, Tasha, and I just thought it would be an awesome experience and blessing to the Kingdom of God to see three young women intertwine their gifts as a form of worship.

Paris: I started writing poetry when I was 12 years old. My style of writing often comes out in the form of rap as I often like to recite my poetry to soft music or to a beat. When I got to college, I began doing spoken word at open mic events, poetry jam sessions and church events.

Tasha: I actually do not rap however, I play the clarinet. I started playing in band in 6th grade, but I started playing in church and by ear when I was in the 7th grade.

FFS: How was Partners-N-Rhyme formed and where did the name come from?

Everyone’s Response: Partners-N-Rhyme formed when myself, and a fellow poet in the faith of mine, Mr. Marquice Jones would meet up to collaborate on poetry to minister at church events. Our poetic styles vibe so well together that we called ourselves Partners-N-Rhyme, and we began to identify other ‘Partners’ in the faith who could add their salt to ours in ministry. Our Clarinetist, Tasha Vaughn and our Vocalist, Alicia Williams both exemplify the confluence multifaceted musical ministry infused with poetic passion. Usually, when it is Tasha, myself and Alicia, we often call ourselves, “Rhythm and Praise”, or R&P to redirect the crowd’s thoughts from R&B to R&P.

FFS: If you could ask any woman in the bible one questions what would it be and why?

Alicia: I think I would ask the Woman with the Issue of Blood how she pressed with such perseverance to the hem of Jesus garment. Since I am a worshiper no matter what I want to always touch Jesus with my praise and worship. When I look at her it was such a high level of intensity to her getting to the garment of Jesus because she knew she would be made whole. I feel that at times we get so lackadaisical that we don’t press and do whatever it takes to touch Jesus and truly be whole. I also admire her for her fervent faith.

Paris: I would ask the disciple, Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, what it felt like to be a blessing to so many people in her realm of influence in the town of Joppa. The people loved her ministry so much that when she died, they tracked down Peter to come and raise her up from the dead to live and minister to them again. I would love to talk to Dorcas because I desire to download and enact the qualities that it takes to be an on fire leader in Christ, to the point that when I leave, people will demand an encore of the presence of God.

Tasha: I would ask Sarah about her insight on Faith beyond everything she endured. No matter what Sarah went thorough she still had joy beyond measure so much so to the Lord brought her laughter which was her son Isaac (Genesis 21).

FFS: The bible says that life and death are in the power of the tongue. How is that truth displayed through your ministry?

Everyone’s Response: Well to answer this question you can look at the piece that we created “God’s Glamorous Girls”. Through this piece and many more that will be created we touch on the issues of our day and let people know especially women that question “Is anything to hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:4) and let them know nothing is too hard for the Lord. Our aim is to let them know it doesn’t matter what type of giant they are facing because God is able to do exceeding and abundantly above all that ask, or think in their wildest dreams (Ephesians 3:20 Message Bible) and he will do just that. That is the epitome of speaking life.

FFS: Have either of you ever dealt with rejection of your gift because you are a woman? If so, how did you handle it?

Alicia: Well I truly can not say that I have dealt with rejection of my gift and for that I am grateful. Generally people embrace me and enjoy hearing me sing and lead them into worship. They especially enjoy when Paris, Tasha, and I come together because they enjoy the unique worship experience that they obtain from us interlocking our gifts.

Paris: Fortunately no, I haven’t. Many men and women tend to enjoy spoken word from a young, talented oracle of God. They tend to like the gift of poetry because it attracts the youth, as well as the older saints to consider the simple things in life. This gift of poetry is often refreshing and cathartic for others.

Tasha: I wouldn’t say rejection. As a musician there are not that many women around or you just don’t see them, especially women horn players. I’ve never felt rejected, just left out sometimes. You feel the need to prove yourself as an equal, but I have been blessed to be around some men who truly love God and the Anointing.

FFS: If you could record a track with anyone who would it be and why?

Alicia: I would record a track with Tye Tribett because I simply love his music but more importantly I love how he ministers the word to people whether it be thorough song or through spoken words. I also love his enthusiasm for the things of God and representing the Kingdom of God. He also has an energy level out of this world and I definitely would like to gain that from him.

Paris: Da Truth. Da Truth is a gospel rap artist who is educated in the faith, challenges the status quo, and collaborates with various artists for one common purpose: To fulfill the great commission, which is to draw all souls closer to Christ to the point of salvation. I would be HONORED to rap on a track, or do a poetic interlude with Da Truth. I’ve never seen him in concert personally, but I’ve followed his music ministry and recommend his music to anyone who is looking to hear the gospel preached to a beat.

Tasha: Tye Tribbett! I am a huge fan of his and Sound Check (The Band). I love the energy, the jazziness, and the beautiful worship.

FFS: Young girls are being pressured more than ever to “drop it likes it’s hot” in sexually explicit videos, magazines, and so on. It seems like the only way to get noticed is to show some skin. If you had to minister to a girl caught between being a video vixen and God’s girl, what would you say?

Paris: IMAGE IS EVERYTHING. If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything. Take this time today, to be the trend setter. Make holiness a trend. Everyone gets excited whenever they see ‘NEW’ attached to a thing. Be the ‘NEW’. The N.otably E.xquisite W.omen that everyone else will aspire to be. You can only be “N.E.W.” by accepting Christ in your life, and walking out that relationship in obedience and submission to Him. You can do it. Everyone is waiting on the N.E.W. you…including Partners-N-Rhyme.

Tasha: I would tell her that she is worth much more than showing her body to the world. A true woman who esteems herself to be the top and a real dime piece knows her worth in Christ. She indeed has a worth far more than rubies and diamonds. If you don’t want to be trash, feel like trash, become trash, then don’t do trashy things.

Alicia: After reading and talking with my group members I definitely have noting left to say. They summed it up quite nicely and I agree with what they stated completely.

FFS: Name some of your favorite artists.

Alicia: Tye Tribett, Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, William Murphy, Lisa McClendon, CeCe Winans, Kiki Sheard and a ton of others that would probably fill this page.

Paris: William Murphy, Mary Mary, Mali Music, Tye Tribbett, Da Truth, Ambassador, Lecrae, Tripp Lee, Phanatik, Flame, Stephen the Levite, the list could go on and on.

Tasha: Tye Tribbett, Kirk Franklin, William Murphy, Chris Tomlin. Lisa McClendon, Kirk Whalum and Kenny G.

FFS: No one said Canton Jones! You all lose 4 cool points for that lol (JJ)! Give me 4 bars right now on love.

Everyone’s Response: Give me that love that is rich, something like the top dollar
Surpassing common law because it comes from the Father
Limitless in affection, our praise breeds new direction
Pricking hearts, touching souls to the point of confession

FFS: What’s next for you ladies?

Everyone’s Response: That is definitely a tough question at this point. We all are accomplishing so much in life with marriage on the horizon for one of us (Alicia), one of us finishing up a Master’s Degree and a freshly started marriage (Paris), and then another wanting to pursue a second degree (Tasha). All though we are not sure at this time we know that God will lead and guide us. We also know that we share a covenant relationship and that our paths will forever cross. In the mean time we would love to do further projects together and we know that it will happen.

FFS: A woman’s shoes say a lot about her. What does yours say about you?

Paris: Day by day, I’m walking in and on purpose.

Alicia: Well I am definitely the Stiletto Type. For some stilettos are hard to walk in but not for me. What can I say just as my shoes are high I am definitely going higher and higher in the things of God. I am excited about where God is taking me. No matter how high he exalts me I am confident that my God will allow me to walk with confidence, boldness, and authority! I exalt God because he is the greatest!

Tasha: Classy but comfortable would describe my shoes. I am a down to earth person who is sweet, classy, and beautiful and likes to spread the joy and love of Christ wherever I go. I am also very comfortable with my relationship with God and where I am in life.

FFS: You ladies are an inspiration and I am blessed to have you featured in FFS! Continue to walk in your purpose and I look forward to seeing more of R&P in the future.

To check out some awesome video of Rhythm&Praise in action, visit their Youtube page www.youtube.com/user/PartnersNRhyme.

The Heart Of A Lady

2009-06-30T01:07:00.000-04:00

...Eight in 10 pastors' wives say they feel unappreciated or unaccepted by their husbands' congregations, according to surveys by the Global Pastors Wives Network (GPWN); the same number wish their husbands would choose another profession. "Wives' issues" is the No. 1 reason pastors leave their ministries. The divorce rate among ministers and their wives is 50%, no better than that of the general public.
...

With no place to vent, let their hair down, or just cry in the comfort of someone who will not judge them, the life of a pastor's wife is not easy and often misunderstood. All too often they are expected to live a life of perfection, and when the family faulters the weight is now on her shoulders to keep it lifted up.

After recently reading an article about the state of pastor's wives across the country in Time magazine, I felt compelled to share this issue with our readers. The question that followed was how? Just one day later God sent the answer and her name is Keisha Mitchell, First Lady of Resurrection Life Christian Center in Richmond, VA.

Whether addressed as the pastor's wife, First Lady, or pastor, Keisha and I hope to bring women in ministry a place to be free to express themselves without fear of reprisal or judgement. We want them to know that we understand the position they are in and our desire is to provide the support they need. Some of you just need an ear to hear. We are here for you.

Help me welcome Keisha to FFS and be on the lookout for her articles that will heal and inspire change.

Keisha Mitchell is a woman with a heart that loves God. She is a native of Orlando, Florida, but resides in Richmond, Virginia with her family. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida. She is passionate about writing and teaching and is an adjunct professor at the community college level and a career coach. She accepted the Lord into her life as a child, but strayed away from God during her early college years. But through a divine act of destiny, she joined the college gospel choir. There she met a group of young people that sincerely loved the Lord, including her future husband. This 19-year-old minister introduced her to true worship, fervent praise, intimacy with God, and a life of holiness. That was the turning point in her life. She decided to follow his example and completely gave her heart to the Lord. She was filled with the Holy Spirit and her life changed forever. She embarked on a journey that allowed her to serve in the capacity of a church administrative assistant, a praise leader, and several other ministry areas. She was married to Pastor Nathan Mitchell in 1998.

She is still serving diligently beside him in ministry at the Resurrection Life Christian Center in Richmond, VA where he is the senior pastor and founder. She is the mother of two miracles (Emmanuel Jubal and Destiny Moriah) and she cares for her family with the love of Christ. She is an intricate and detailed teacher of the Word of God and she loves to worship.

The most miraculous part of her testimony is God’s healing and restoring power. She discovered that she was pregnant, only to have that joy overshadowed by the diagnosis of a rare form of cancer in 2008. Through God’s healing power and love, and the support of her friends and family she is being restored daily and beyond belief. She is a testament of God’s power and serves Him wholeheartedly. Her story is inspiring, but more than that, her triumph through God’s love is encouraging and simply incredible.

To learn more about Keisha and Resurrection Life Christian Center, please visit http://www.rlcc.info/.

Quote source: Time Magazine

Stand Out In The Crowd

2009-06-30T01:06:00.000-04:00

Hello, my name is Angela Alexander, author and inspirational speaker of my autobiography titled, ‘Miracles in Action’.

As my siblings and I grew older, my mother could not shield us from the inevitable—peer pressure. At Big Hamilton Elementary School, my peers tried to get me to choose between smoking and their friendship. My dreams for the future gave me the confidence I needed to allow my destiny to override my physical surroundings. Because the visions of my dreams remained constant and full of great wonders, I withstood it all. Some of my siblings, on the other hand, gave in. I saw their downward spiral firsthand. David my brother, it seemed, caught the worst of it. The consumption of drugs and alcohol altered his mind and life forever.

There’s an old familiar saying that’s so true, “Birds of the feather flock together.” The picture of your future, will be taken by the people in your present, and wherever you find yourself, you made the appointment to be there. You may not be able to change your destiny overnight, but you can change your direction.

Instead of giving in to peer pressure and allowing others to speak into your, you need to talk to yourself. The thinking that got you into your situation is not the same thinking that’s going to get you out. Daily you mentally prepare yourself for victory or defeat. Prayer plus action changes things. Each morning wake up and give thanks to God for your past, present, future blessings, and watch them multiply and magnify.

“Imagine your goal. Hold that image in your consciousness. Keep that image always before you, and your goal will materialize.”

I invite you to share your inspirational testimony so others will be blessed as well. Please send your message to beinspired@faithfilledstilettos.com, and place ‘Be Inspired’ in the subject line.

They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. Revelation 12:11
~Be inspired and give inspiration~

Angela Alexander is an author, inspirational speaker, and our Be Inspired columinist. To learn more about her, please visit her official website http://www.miraclesinaction.com/.

Life Lessons While Moving Forward

2009-06-30T01:05:00.000-04:00

Who would have ever thought it would come to this? Repositioned and moved from one comfort place to somewhere unfamiliar. If you thought like me, I didn’t factor in the ending of a twenty-three year marriage. But this is where I found myself four years ago. Having to make adjustments in my ministry, home and personal life was a bit much of an undertaking, yet this is exactly the place God had me.

Let me share with you some important lessons I’ve learned while moving forward:

1. Repositioning allows you to discover who you really are. As women we by nature, nurture those around us-family, friends, and ministry. But in the process of nurturing others we forget about ourselves. Everyone else is more important and we are the last ones to get our needs and desires met. We tend to lose our identity and things that once mattered to us take a back seat. When I was going through my divorce, I lost my individuality. I was so consumed with ministry, family and my job, I forgot about Paulette. God allowed me to be by myself. He actually isolated me for years. While going through years of restoration, I began to rediscover who I was. I spent plenty of time alone. For some of you, the word alone does not fit in your vocabulary. But let me be the first to tell you, being alone is wonderful. I spent time with ‘ME”. I began to enjoy Paulette. I did want I wanted to do without having anyone to answer to except God. I realized that God wanted me to be happy and satisfied with the person He had created. Even with my faults and issues, I could honestly say that I love who I am. Can you say that? Before entering into another relationship, do you!

2. Repositioning allows you to explore a whole new dimension in life. You have no idea what doors God will open for you. We are familiar with the saying when one door closes, God opens up another. Let me say AMEN! In the process of my marriage failing, God was allowing something to die, so I could live. I understand that it can be very difficult to believe that anything good could come from such a disaster, but I’m living proof that what is before you is greater than what you walked away from. I wake up every day in expectation. What about you? Are you filled with excitement about the next level or place that God is taking you? Your life is not over by any means. You must accept and embrace the new dimension that God is bringing your way. I sit in wonder by the people, places and things God has permitted to come into my life. Don’t let life pass you by. Get yourself up and move forward, there are some amazing wonders that God has just for you.

Please welcome Paulette Harper to FFS as our I Can Begin Again columnist. She is also the author of That Was Then, This Is Now. To learn more about Paulette, please visit her official website www.bvministry.org.

Answering The Call

2009-06-30T01:04:00.002-04:00

From as early as I can remember, I loved to perform. I sung, played the piano and the harp. My parents recognized that I was blessed with many gifts. I also had a big personality to match. They, along with my great-grandmother cultivated those gifts by enrolling me in piano lessons, purchasing microphones, easels--anything to enhance what God had placed so generously in my spirit.

It was paying off. By the time I was a teenager, I was the lead singer on many songs in my church choir. In addition, I did back up vocals for local New York City rap artists and continued to audition in hopes of becoming a part of a group. I still can’t figure it out even today, but I never wanted to be the lead.

In my mid-teens I joined civil rights leader and radio pioneer Bob Law’, Harlem based, Respect Yourself Youth Choir. That was wonderful--a dream come true. The choir afforded me the opportunity to travel and meet so many people in the entertainment industry. I was on my way.
However, by the time I was 16 years old; I became a mother and fell in love with a man a few years my senior. Years passed by, and we became parents again, got married and eventually I gave up my love and passion for performing to focus on my new love--being a wife and mother.
After years of emotional, physical, and verbal abuse, I finally ended my marriage. My exodus wasn’t planned. After a vicious beating that led to my arrest (at my former husband insistence), I prayed to God and heard an audible voice that asked, “Are you ready to Leave the Wilderness?” Several days later, I packed up my children and left. I had no plan and nowhere to go. We were immediately homeless.

In October 2001, I suffered a mild heart attack, which propelled me into a state of deep depression. Throughout the years, I always held onto hope. I always felt that it was just a matter of time before things would get better for the children and me. However, the years of abuse had taken a tremendous toll on me. My mind, body, and spirit were tired. Following my illness, I had convinced myself that I was going to die and I lost my will to live. The enemy was attacking me.
One evening, while I was lying on my bed, I felt a sudden urge to write. It was forceful and immediately I began to sit up. I decided to write a memoir--what I thought would be a final gift. Sort of like a legacy to leave behind for my children. Oh, but God! The writing became therapy. Writing about my pain began to give me healing. I can still feel that moment--the liberation. The pain was suddenly transforming into power. I showed the first few chapters to a few friends. After my close girlfriend, Roxanne read a few chapters; I felt empowered and was ready to share my story with the world.

Less than five months later, Leaving the Wilderness, my debut novel was birthed! Immediately the book received many accolades from the publishing industry. I received an invitation to speak at a women’s event and the response was overwhelming. Women lined up after hearing me speak just to share their obstacles and stories. I was not alone. God had begun to show me the need for battered women to hear my testimony. My story, as well as, my survival was much bigger than just me!

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. Isaiah 61:1

In 2004, I founded Leave the Wilderness, an organization dedicated to aiding and uplifting battered women and their children. A year later, God gave me a vision to present Leaving the Wilderness the stage production. Many women were delivered from abuse after witnessing the play. The star-studded production also received rave reviews. The Lord continued to bless me with other opportunities to share my testimony and empower women. I was entrusted to host a television show on FOX, The Tonya Blount Show. The show provided me another opportunity to uplift and empower an audience of nearly a half-a-million women. Look at God!

Nearly four years had passed since the release of my first book. I now had two published books. I had suddenly lost my father, my uncle (who was like a brother to me) and my beloved godmother, all within six months of each other. All unexpectedly. I was emotional and spiritually drained and was growing weary of leaving my children to speak. I felt I was ready to close the book on my past with my former husband. I was ready for whatever was next.

Shortly thereafter, I received an e-mail from my former husband informing me that he had cancer. God directed me to take my children to visit with him. While driving there I began to talk with God. He reminded me that although I spoke to battered women about escaping their abusive relationships, I couldn’t testify on forgiveness! For a few weeks, I drove back and forth to visit him, oftentimes, without the children. I took care of him, prayed for him, and loved him--limitless--the way that Christ loves us. I forgave him.

God had given me the next phase of my assignment: Testify to battered women on forgiving their abusers. Glory to God!

I have seen my ministry grow tremendously. I have been asked to minister to the women in Uganda, Africa. In February 2009, I released my spiritual memoir, “The Resurrection of Me,” the memoir has landed on BCNC National Christian Bestselling list for three consecutive months since its release. Through my organization, I will continue sponsoring events that benefit battered women across the globe. My organization will also begin awarding a scholarship to a domestic violence survivor yearly. I know that this is my calling--healing, empowering, and aiding abused women. What a wonderful way to live -- to share, witness and feed the lambs.

Elder Tonya Blount is our Believe I'll Testify columnist, which will not only shed light on the dark issue of domestic violence, but provide solutions to those in this unfortunate circumstance. To learn more about Tonya, visit her official website http://www.theresurrectionofme.wordpress.com/ or www.myspace.com/tonyablount.

The ABCs Of Summer Dressing

2009-06-30T01:03:00.001-04:00

If you remember a few simple rules, you can effortlessly pull together your hot weather looks without a snag!

A – ACCESSORIZE: Accessories are a simple and inexpensive means of spicing up your summer wardrobe and transitioning pieces like cardigans and skirts between hot and cold seasons. For instance, a denim pencil skirt can be paired with a sweater, tights, and knee boots in the winter, but can be just as useful in the summer months with an embellished tank and gladiator sandals. Make the wardrobe you already have work for you, by picking up a few simple accessories that will get you through the summer months. Start by revealing freshly painted toes with gladiator sandals. Forgo your usual wristwatch for a few bright bangles. Instantly transport yourself to the beach with a pair of shell earrings. Ditch the heavy leather handbag for a canvas tote. Finally, keep those eyes protected with a chic pair of sunglasses.

B - BRONZE RESPONSIBLY: Depending on the weather in your specific location, you will be baring more skin now than you did a few months ago. Before you do, make sure that you exfoliate and follow with body oil to avoid ashiness. Most importantly, make sure to protect your skin with at least an SPF 15 before going out in the sun.

C – COMPLIMENT: No matter what the trends dictate, be true to yourself! One of the hottest summer trends of 2009 has been the maxi dress. But since I stand at 5’4” and am blessed with hips, I would not dare go near one! The silhouette just would not compliment my frame. Whatever your shape and size dress to compliment your body and provide comfort for your lifestyle.

If you have any fashion or beauty questions or need advice, feel free to email me at fashionista@faithfilledstilettos.com. And until next time ladies, what are you clothed in?

"After the Music Stops" with Raishein, Believe

2009-06-30T00:59:00.004-04:00

Raishein (ray-sheen), gospel pop music’s new crowned Princess, is an anointed singer, songwriter, actress and recording artist. She relies on truth and writes from her own remarkable life experiences. Every musical testimony is a page torn from her diary. She composes songs that speak to the perseverance of the human spirit by transforming her wounds into a source of strength. Raishein feels that ministry by music is one of the most powerful tools that is used today to reach a generation that is looking for fulfillment in this world.

She uses her talents prophetically to reach the world with God's message of love, grace and hope in spite of trials and tribulations. She believes strongly in teaching this generation how to rid themselves of religious mind-sets and develop a serious relationship with Jesus Christ. She uses her unique voice, love for people and heart after God to inspire others to realize that in spite of your past, you can make it with Jesus.With the completion of the adroit album titled “Believe”, Raishein has delivered an impressive, powerful, and moving debut. As the album unfolds, Raishein leads audiences deeper into her world, walking them through a place of worship through her experiences and emotions. The CD reveals that if you “Believe” in Jesus, He “can” make a way out of no way. - CD Baby

In addition to FFS, I had the pleasure of interviewing Raishein on the Sistah Confessions radio show. Listen to her confession exclusively given to FFS by clicking here!

FFS: Music is more about just singing a song. Our words create an impact that can leave a lasting effect on the hearts of those who listen. Tell us about the importance of the words we speak and how we need to monitor the words we listen to.

This is a great question. Music is such an intricate part of our lives that it is played everywhere we go and importantly the words that we are hearing should be focused around the truth. I always challenge listeners to hear the words, realize that the spirit of the music is very important because it can change moods, it can change the atmosphere and most importantly it can changes lives. I believe that the words that we speak design the world around us. So many of us say words like, now that I’ve taken care of this, all I have to “worry” about is…..but really there should be no worry..if our faith is in God. This is also the same about the music. We design our world by the music that we listen to. Artists, such as myself, should always portray the truth in whatever we say or sing.

The music industry just lost one of its most iconic legends, Michael Jackson. What impact will his legacy leave on the music industry, both secular and non-secular, and what advice would you offer to someone who has experienced the loss of a loved one?

Well the fact that Michael Jackson has now passed is still a wake up call for many in the body of Christ and for those outside of the body. Just like Michael, we are all destined to pass one day from this earth one way or another. This is pure evidence that tomorrow is not promised to some observers and to others, it is a loud voice that says, no matter what status we have in life…what good is it to gain the whole world if you lose your soul along the way. Only God knows whether Michael surrendered to him. To answer your question about how to approach someone that has lost a loved one. The answer that I’ve said in the past is that God will give them peace that passes all understanding. God is a peace giver in all situations. God saw it necessary to bring that person from this place for a reason, his ways are higher than our ways and his thoughts are higher than our thoughts. We have to trust in his purpose even when it doesn’t make sense to us. Most importantly he loves all of us even those that he releases from this place. We all have a time and season on this earth and we need to request his guidance on how we should fulfill our destiny and pray for others to fulfill theirs as well. We need to encourage them to move toward their purpose even in sorrow because the word says, “weeping may endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning.”

FFS: When did you realize that you were called to sing? Please share with us your first time ministering in public.

Wow, honestly I cannot remember the first time that I sang in public. I have been singing since I was a toddler. I sang in the church since I was a little girl. We would have different pastors who would come and visit my home church. Several pastors would minister to me by saying that I would be a minister or about the music ministry that God put inside of me. As a little girl, when I would sing I do remember being so nervous. I didn’t understand that I was ministering, I understood it as singing. Thank God for revelation.

FFS: A woman’ shoes say a lot about her. What does your favorite pair say about you?

My favorite pair of shoes..hmm honestly, I do not have a favorite pair. When I think about it..I do have a black pair of patent leather pumps that I do wear often. They are comfortable, shiny and high healed. What do they say about me? I would think that they would say that I am professional & classy (A pump), elegant (shiny) and very short (lol) which is why they have to be at least 2.5-3 inches. I am only 5 feet tall!

Get your copy of the Debut CD from Raishein, "Believe" and watch the music video that has been airing on BET www.youtube.com/raishein. To learn more visit Raishein online at www.raishein.com or www.myspace.com/raishein.

Booking Information:

Raishein Productions

Box 6713 Katy, TX

77491-6713.

Ph: 832-344-8458

booking@raishein.com

The Throne Room Worship Experence

2009-06-16T01:18:00.001-04:00

Sistah Faith Conference June 12th-13th, 2009

2009-06-09T16:46:00.003-04:00

SistahFaith exists to bring women full circle--from tragedy to triumph--in faith, arts and life. We seek to transform lives through testimony and to decrease violence and victimization of women and girls. We are committed to sharing God's shameless grace through our books, conferences, ministry resources, network and member community.

Our vision is to change women and girls who'll change the world. We especially seek to positively impact those who have been affected by sexual abuse, domestic violence, teen pregnancy, abortion, addiction, poor body image, toxic relationships and low self esteem.

Sunday's Best Newly Crowned Winner Y'anna Crawley

2009-06-06T12:01:00.000-04:00

The OMG Chronicles #4: Shh... It's A Secret

2009-06-06T10:47:00.003-04:00

The question: Is there a fine line between business and faith?

The situation: Urban Christian, a publishing company that produces Christian fiction, has decided to pull it's branding image and tagline of "The Finest In Christian Fiction" from all it's book covers. The reason? Well, I guess its a strategic move to gain better placement on the shelves of bookstore and ultimately get into the hands of readers who may have found the label offensive or preachy.

Church Girl Says: It's all business, right? Sometimes, a Christian has to do what a Christian has to do. Why should we care if the label is removed? Seeing"Christian" is far more offensive than a scantly clad woman in a thong straddled over two men with a cherry hanging from her mouth. Wouldn't we much rather pick up a book with Smack That Trick on the cover than The Finest In Christian Fiction anyway? I guess so, considering that's what book sales tell us.

While I understand the reasoning behind this move, I am concerned about the identity of a Christian as a whole. It goes beyond books, but our lifestyle. Everyone else is bold in their approach to who they are or what they believe, without shame or reserve. If they believe in it, then rest assured, the world will too or at least learn to tolerate it. Are we the only ones having an identity crisis? Is the new trend to be an undercover agent for God? A part of some secret service agency that will only proclaim our beliefs inside church only? Wow! How can we change the world when the world doesn't know who we are?

The Word: Romans 12:1-2 (The Message)
Place Your Life Before God 1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.

The Secrets We Keep: Should Your Spouse Know Everything About Your Past?

2009-06-05T08:17:00.004-04:00

Some say it's the only way to build a strong foundation, while others think it's a recipe for disaster. We are talking about secrets today with author Victoria Christopher Murray. Join the conversation.

Upcoming Show

Victoria Christopher Murray joins us in the studio for an Afternoon Confession to tell us about Jasmine, the fiesty First Lady of her forthcoming release Lady Jasmine. With her own lies, she nearly destroyed her marriage to Pastor Hosea Bush. Why, Jasmine was forced to reveal every secret she'd ever kept from her husband, right down to her real age, weight, and shoe size! She thought she had told Hosea everything. But when Jasmine is blackmailed with a terrible truth from her past that she "forgot" to tell Hosea, more than just her marriage is in jeopardy.

Surprisingly, her first instinct is to tell the truth. Jasmine knows, however, that this is one part of her life that can never be exposed. Determined to keep the life she fought so hard to save, Jasmine is willing to commit any sin -- even murder -- to leave her past behind her. No one can know the truth about the First Lady of City of Lights at Riverside Church. No one can know that beneath the veneer of a redeemed Christian wife, there lies a sinner -- especially not her trusting husband.

Talk back: How far will you go to keep a secret?

When: June 5, 2009 @ 3pm/EST
Where: Sistah Confessions Radio
Call in: 347-324-5783

Faith You Can Hear

2009-06-01T04:32:00.004-04:00

We've created the perfect blend of sight and now sound with the additon of The Sistah Confessions Radio Show, #1 in Inspiration and Christain fiction, now featured on Faith Filled Stilettos.

Sistah Confessions' purpose is to provide a forum that will shed light on the dark issues of this world by using the confessions of the authors and special guests to heal, inspire, and elicit a change that will transform our lives. Join in on the conversation every Tuesday at 9pm/EST to help promote empowerment and unity through fellowship. Together, with the love of Christ, we can light up the darkness!

Upcoming Show

It Ain't Over: Discovering God's Plan For Your Life Through the Pain

Author Lily Ratliff joins SC to discuss her book The Life of A Lily: Growing In His Strength, Blooming In His Love. Are you going through life's ups and downs alone? Are you a victim of the foster system or adopted and want to know, Why me? Can there ever be life after abuse or abandonment? If you have experienced opposition or neglect that has hardened your heart, tune in.
In her autobiography, The Life of a Lily, author Lily shows you that through all of your mess, God can bring you to a point of acceptance of what life has given you, with the vigor to carry on. A catalyst for hope and restoration in your life, with easy-to-read vignettes and relevant corresponding Scriptures, The Life of a Lily shows how a young girl triumphs by discovering what so many others failed to realize: that God had a plan for her life.

Talk Back: Have you discovered the plan God has for your life?

When: June 2, 2009 @ 9pm/EST
Where: Sistah Confessions Radio
Call #: 347-324-5783

The OMG Chronicles # 3: They Just My Baby Daddies!

2009-05-29T19:12:00.003-04:00

The question: Is waiting to have sex until marriage just a fairytale?

The situation: I scratched my head when I read the headline to this story. Apparently a woman gave birth to a set of twin boys who did not have the same father. Yes, I wrote that correctly. Turns out the woman had sex with two different men within days of each other, and each man's sperm fertilized an egg during ovulation. Her fiancé became suspicious because the boys did not look alike. See for yourself here.

Church Girl says: After I re-read the article, I was at a lost for words. I actually thought about how Maury would have loved to exploit this case on his show. Then I began to wonder if the mother considered the consequences before she performed the action. I guess not. The decision to lay down caused issues to come up in the lives of those around her. I mean how will the mother even begin to share this information with her children? Will the man she has now stay in the picture? What about the other dude? Was the sex worth it?

I know some of you may be saying, "sex is good". True, but it's even better when it's done God's way between a husband and a wife (and no one else). No baby daddy drama, diseases, heartache, trust issues, pain, self-esteem issues, soul ties and everything else that comes with causal sex. Considering what you're giving up for a few minutes of pleasure ~~more like seconds~~ sex doesn't seem so casual anymore, does it?

The Word: Psalm 119:10-12 (The Message)
9-16 How can a young person live a clean life? By carefully reading the map of your Word. I'm single-minded in pursuit of you; don't let me miss the road signs you've posted. I've banked your promises in the vault of my heart so I won't sin myself bankrupt. Be blessed, God; train me in your ways of wise living. I'll transfer to my lip all the counsel that comes from your mouth; I delight far more in what you tell me about living than in gathering a pile of riches. I ponder every morsel of wisdom from you, I attentively watch how you've done it. I relish everything you've told me of life, I won't forget a word of it.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 (The Message)
You're God-Taught 1-3 One final word, friends. We ask you—urge is more like it—that you keep on doing what we told you to do to please God, not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance. You know the guidelines we laid out for you from the Master Jesus. God wants you to live a pure life. Keep yourselves from sexual promiscuity. 4-5 Learn to appreciate and give dignity to your body, not abusing it, as is so common among those who know nothing of God.

Literary Escapes #5: Sins of The Father by Angela Benson

2009-05-29T18:44:00.005-04:00

If booking your usual room at the Hilton is out of the question this summer, don't cancel your plans all together. Instead, grab one of these great 5 books in 5 weeks and escape into a world unlike your own. Nothing eases your mind faster than a great book filled with drama, humor, and faith. Yes, we know the characters aren't real but that's what makes it a guilty pleasure you can enjoy without having to repent later.Books are a great and inexpensive way to leave your hectic life behind while keeping your budget in tact. So, spend your summer relaxing (anywhere you can), drinking a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, with these 5 books in 5 weeks FFS knows you will enjoy.

Successful media mogul Abraham Martin has great wealth, an elegant wife, Saralyn, and a rebellious son, Isaac. He also has a secret: a second family that no one knows about. Now, after thirty years—driven by the urging of his long dormant conscience—Abraham is determined to do the right thing by finally bringing his illegitimate children into the light…and into the family fold.

But beautiful, manipulative Saralyn will never accept the proof of her husband’s indiscretions. Isaac the heir, shaken by his father’s
revelations, will fight mercilessly when his world is threatened, and may lose everything that matters as a result. And while Abraham’s forgotten daughter Deborah is open to the undreamed-of possibilities suddenly awaiting her, son Michael cannot forgive the man who cruelly abandoned them to near poverty. And he’s driven by only one desire: revenge!

Angela Benson’s Sins of the Father is a powerful story of a house bitterly divided—a rich, multilayered family saga of betrayal and redemption, rage and compassion, faith, forgiveness, and ultimately, of love.

See for yourself in August when this book releases, but until then, visit Angela's official website at http://www.angelabenson.com/.

This completes our 5 in 5 Literary Escapes. We hope you enjoyed these features and if you read any of our suggestions, let us know about it.

FFS wants to know what books makes a great literary escape for the summer. Tell us all about your favorite reads in the comments section.

Literary Escapes #4: The Last Woman Standing by Tia McCollors

2009-05-22T09:47:00.002-04:00

If booking your usual room at the Hilton is out of the question this summer, don't cancel your plans all together. Instead, grab one of these great 5 books in 5 weeks and escape into a world unlike your own. Nothing eases your mind faster than a great book filled with drama, humor, and faith. Yes, we know the characters aren't real but that's what makes it a guilty pleasure you can enjoy without having to repent later.Books are a great and inexpensive way to leave your hectic life behind while keeping your budget in tact. So, spend your summer relaxing (anywhere you can), drinking a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, with these 5 books in 5 weeks FFS knows you will enjoy.

The man. His woman. His ex-wife.

After being married to their careers instead of each other for ten years, “Ace” and Lynette Bowers ended their marriage. But four years later, it seems their love never ended – to both of their surprises and denial. Sheila Rushmore is Ace’s current girlfriend and a woman who is used to getting what she wants – except Ace’s commitment to marriage. When Sheila realizes Lynette may be the cause, she launches a plan to play the hand of God, instead of allowing Him to bring the love all three of them desire.

Aren't we all guilty of making things happen that we later regretted? I can only imagine the troubles headed Sheila's way. Find out in August when this book releases, but until then, visit Tia's official website at www.tiamccollors.com.

FFS wants to know what books makes a great literary escape for the summer. Tell us all about your favorite reads in the comments section.

Literary Escapes #3: The Devil Is A Lie by ReShonda Tate Billingsley

2009-05-17T17:30:00.004-04:00

If booking your usual room at the Hilton is out of the question this summer, don't cancel your plans all together. Instead, grab one of these great 5 books in 5 weeks and escape into a world unlike your own. Nothing eases your mind faster than a great book filled with drama, humor, and faith. Yes, we know the characters aren't real but that's what makes it a guilty pleasure you can enjoy without having to repent later.Books are a great and inexpensive way to leave your hectic life behind while keeping your budget in tact. So, spend your summer relaxing (anywhere you can), drinking a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, with these 5 books in 5 weeks FFS knows you will enjoy.

AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT. . . .
When Nina Lawson wins $16 million in the Texas Lottery, the real estate executive and her fiancé ecstatically begin planning their future...But when Nina goes to claim her winnings, she gets an astounding twist of fate: her ex-husband, Todd Lawson, shows up to inform he he isn’t her ex-anything—since the paperwork for their divorce was never officially filed. By Todd's side, his money-hungry girlfriend, Pam - the woman he left Nina for - and they want half!

MORE MONEY, MORE PROBLEMS...
Besides her divorce drama, Nina also has to deal with relatives coming out of the woodwork to seek a payday for themselves. Before all is said and done, Nina must ask herself if scoring a fortune in cash comes with too high a price tag. With a little bit of luck, Nina will discern the real wealth in her heart, not just her bank account—or risk losing everything—to find out what matters the most.

Don't forget to add this book to you reading list this summer and keep an eye out for ReShonda's first motion picture release, Let The Church Say Amen, in theaters soon! To learn more about ReShonda, please visit her official website at www.reshondatatebillingsley.com.

FFS wants to know what books do you consider a great Literary Esacpe. Tell us all about it in our comments section.

The OMG Chronicles # 2: Mirror Mirror On Her Wall...

2009-05-13T10:13:00.004-04:00

The OMG! Chronicles # 2: Mirror Mirror On Her Wall...

The question: What would possess a mother to get plastic surgery to look like her daughter?

The situation: They say it’s a new trend! Mothers getting plastic surgery to look exactly like their daughters. In this instance, a 50ish year old woman decided, after realizing she “let herself go”, to take matters into her own hands. She didn’t just want to look younger, or be content with her 30lbs. weight loss; she decided to go under the knife to look just like her daughter. OUCH and WHAT?

Church Girl Says: I was just thinking about how mothers and daughters favor each other, but this is a completely new extreme. Can you begin to imagine what is going through that mother’s mind that feels it is normal to make herself into the image of her child? Their makeup, clothing, and now face are the same (well not exactly, but that’s what she was going for). Since when did children have so much influence over a parent? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?

I’m also wondering if the mother’s failed relationship coupled with the fact that she lives with her daughter, have anything to do with her plunge into the deep end? ~~Umm, yes!~~ I’ve heard of a man causing a woman to do some radical things, like cut her hair ~~or set his house on fire~~, but I’ve never heard of this.

What women need to realize is their worth is not determined by the size of their hips or how good they are in bed. It’s really about a right relationship with God. Only He can restore in her what the world has taken away. Self-esteem is not gained by plastic surgery, overeating, men, and any other vice that takes hold of women refusing to let them go. It sounds corny, but it begins within. What is the use of having a beautiful house on the outside, but when you step foot in the door you see nothing but trash?

When you change what’s on the inside, you will begin to appreciate everything that is on the outside.

The Word: Genesis 1:26 (The Message)
26-28 God spoke: "Let us make human beings in our image, make them reflecting our nature… God created human beings; he created them godlike, reflecting God's nature.

Romans 12:1-2 (The Message)
1-2 So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.

Check out the video and drop me a line. I’d love to know what you are thinking!

Church Girl is always finding jaw-dropping headlines that make her say OMG! So, she decided to do what any self-proclaimed Internet junkie would, blog about it. Her life is filled with OMG moments and apparently so is everyone else she comes in contact with. Why not share in the experience? From the news to the pews, Church Girl talks about those things that make you go hmmm.

The OMG! Chronicles # 1: Thou Shall Not Dance?

2009-05-08T17:15:00.008-04:00

The question: Is it fair for a Christian school to suspend a student for attending a prom?

The situation: A Christian school in Ohio has forbid a student to attend the prom of his girlfriend (who attends another school) because they don’t condone dancing, rock music, hand-holding and kissing. He has been warned that if he goes he will ~~go to hell~~ be suspended and will not be able to walk with his graduating class, though he will get a diploma once he takes his final exams. However, if he engages in sex or drinking alcohol he will ~~definitely go to hell~~ be expelled.

Church Girl Says: Wow! I didn’t know Christian schools got down like that. I guess they remember their proms and are not trying to have a repeat of those activities with their students.

While I do not agree with the school’s stance on suspension or expulsion, I do understand where they are coming from (in a way). Music – you have to be careful what you listen to. What captures your ears captures your heart. Holding hands, kissing, sex – can we give the boy the benefit of the doubt? If he attends a Christian school and has Christian parents and is a Christian, he should know what thus says the Lord about fornication. Right? Whatever the case, he’ll have to answer to God about his decisions, but apparently also the school board. I just wonder what is going through the boy's head while school officials are off probably chatting about how he is going to burn. WWJD? I bet Prom Boy is so glad school is almost over.

The Word: 1 Corinthians 10:23 (Amplified Bible)
23All things are legitimate [permissible--and we are free to do anything we please], but not all things are helpful (expedient, profitable, and wholesome). All things are legitimate, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life].

Church Girl is always finding jaw-dropping headlines that make her say OMG! So, she decided to do what any self-proclaimed Internet junkie would, blog about it. Her life is filled with OMG moments and apparently so is everyone else she comes in contact with. Why not share in the experience? From the news to the pews, Church Girl talks about those things that make you go hmmm.

Literary Escapes #2: Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murray

2009-05-08T07:14:00.005-04:00

If booking your usual room at the Hilton is out of the question this summer, don't cancel your plans all together. Instead, grab one of these great 5 books in 5 weeks and escape into a world unlike your own. Nothing eases your mind faster than a great book filled with drama, humor, and faith. Yes, we know the characters aren't real but that's what makes it a guilty pleasure you can enjoy without having to repent later.

Books are a great and inexpensive way to leave your hectic life behind while keeping your budget in tact. So, spend your summer relaxing (anywhere you can), drinking a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, with these 5 books in 5 weeks FFS knows you will enjoy.

She's Back!
Juicy Jasmine Larson Bush is at it again -- battling her past in order to save her future.

With her own lies, she nearly destroyed her marriage to Pastor Hosea Bush. Why, Jasmine was forced to reveal every secret she'd ever kept from her husband, right down to her real age, weight, and shoe size! She thought she had told Hosea everything.
But when Jasmine is blackmailed with a terrible truth from her past that she "forgot" to tell Hosea, more than just her marriage is in jeopardy.

Surprisingly, her first instinct is to tell the truth. Jasmine knows, however, that this is one part of her life that can never be exposed. Determined to keep the life she fought so hard to save, Jasmine is willing to commit any sin -- even murder -- to leave her past behind her.

No one can know the truth about the First Lady of City of Lights at Riverside Church. No one can know that beneath the veneer of a redeemed Christian wife, there lies a sinner -- especially not her trusting husband.

Your June will sizzle with this hot book! Preorder your copy today and to learn more about Victoria, visit her official site http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/.

FFS wants to know what books do you consider a great Literary Esacpe. Tell us all about it in our comments section.

Dreams Needed. Inquire Within!

2009-05-05T10:20:00.006-04:00

I want to know the thoughts and dreams God has placed on your heart. Are you already walking in the calling on your life? How has the journey been? What should every Faith Filled Stiletto know when it comes to faith? Do you have a ministry? Tell us about it in the comment section or visit our network and post pictures, video, and anything else that will let us know more about you and your dreams.

One of the members said networking sites are missing the friendship factor. I totally agree. So let's make this about friendship, fellowship, praise, worship, and love. Let's just let God use us to add value to each others lives.

Your assignment starts today!

T is for "Twitter"

2009-05-04T10:05:00.005-04:00

By now, most of you are familiar with Twitter, the popular micro-social network that is ~~controlling~~ helping the way us normal people live our lives. A “tweet” is basically a text message you send out for everyone on the network to read.

Ashton Kutcher took “tweeting” to another level when he challenged CNN to see who could reach a million followers first. It was a tight race, but Ashton won.

That got me to thinking about how many people he can reach when he has a new movie coming out, appearances, or to just speak his mind about any and everything. He has a million people literally hanging on his every word. That’s crazy!

Then I ran across an article, posted by a fellow tweeter, about how some churches are using Twitter during services. A little extreme? Some may think so, but imagine the possibilities of how many people can be reached through this avenue. What caught me were some of the tweets the church members had posted like, “I have a hard time recognizing God in the middle of everything” or “sometimes healing is painful.”

So, what do you have to say? Join us on Twitter, www.twitter.com/ffstiletto and let your voice be heard.

To read the Twittering in Church article click here.

In Search For The Perfect Stiletto...

2009-05-01T11:04:00.005-04:00

There are so many things that I want to share with you, but before I do I want to thank my family who has stood by and watched me spend countless hours on the computer making Faith Filled Stilettos a reality. For this issue I want to skip the usual message and say a few words to those who light up my life.

Dion I love you so much! You are a wonderful husband and I hope that I can make you as proud of me as I am of you. It's your support that has gotten me through the most difficult times of my life. The bible says that a wife will win over her unbelieving spouse... I'm glad it was you who changed me and not the other way around.

Samaria, my little princess. I see so much of myself in you that it makes me want to be even more determined, purposeful, and faithful to the call God has on my life. I know I've said, "one more minute" more than a few times. Thanks for being so patient.

To the my two princes, Daizhon and Jakai, you've watched me tote my laptop from bedroom to living room and back again as I called myself spending "family time" with you. Thanks for not snatching the thing and throwing it to the floor. I owe you both! Mommy loves you.

Dr. Cindy Trimm Commands You To Experience The Glory of God

2009-05-01T03:50:00.002-04:00

From Commanding Your Morning Glory to Rules of Engagement, Dr. Cindy Trimm’s ministry brings the Word of God alive with power and clarity in a way that only she can deliver. She is a woman walking in the authority given to her by God that dares to challenge men and women from around the world to take a stand for the Kingdom.

One way to do this is by prayer. The power of life and death lies in our mouth and Commanding Your Morning Glory does a wonderful job of explaining how to use words as a weapon that cuts through the lies perpetrated by Satan. His only job description is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). We make it much easier when we refuse to accept the life Jesus died to give us by not using our mouths to declare the word of God over our lives.

It’s when we keep our mouth shut that we experience spiritual death. Dr. Trimm’s assignment is to shake and compel us to use the tools we’ve been given to live in victory. Prayer should be a part of each of our lives, because the fight for our souls is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12).

Along with being a bestselling author, prayer warrior, and world-renown prophetic evangelist Dr. Trimm is also the founder and chancellor of Kingdom U School of Ministry whose aim is to, “biblically prepare students, churches, and organizations to respond to the global, multicultural and technological advances of the 21st century.”

Dr. Trimm’s assignment is to teach us the rules of engagement on how to command glory for life.

To learn more about Dr. Trimm, visit her official website http://www.cindytrimm.com/. You can also get a sneak peek of her book Commanding Your Morning Glory here.

Want to see Dr. Cindy Trimm in person? Here are some of her upcoming events for the month of May:

Event Date: May 1-2, 2009
Event: Women of Vision Conference
Host: Women of Vision
Pastor Sarah Morgan
Location: Irvine Marriott at John Wayne Airport
18000 Von Karman
Irvine CA 92612
(310) 672-1500

Event Date: May 22-23, 2009
Host: Breath of The Spirit
Dr. Michelle Corral
Location: Breath of The Spirit--Campus B--Main Events
1531 S. Sinclair
Anaheim CA
(714) 695-0668

Event Date: May 24-28, 2009
Event: One Nation, One People Revival
Host: One Nation, One People
Location: National Stadium
Ventian Road
Turks & Caicos
649-332-0000

Event Date: May 29-31, 2009
Event: Glory Explosion 2009
Host: Pastor Margelee Hylton
Location: The Westin Galleria Dallas
13340 Dallas Parkway
Dallas TX 75234
(972) 247-7133

View her full itinerary.

FFS wants to know how important prayer is in your life. Sound off in our comment section.

Literary Escapes #1: The List by Sherri Lewis

2009-05-01T00:34:00.019-04:00

If booking your usual room at the Hilton is out of the question this summer, don't cancel your plans all together. Instead, grab one of these great 5 books in 5 weeks and escape into a world unlike your own. Nothing eases your mind faster than a great book filled with drama, humor, and faith. Yes, we know the characters aren't real but that's what makes it a guilty pleasure you can enjoy without having to repent later.

Books are a great and inexpensive way to leave your hectic life behind while keeping your budget in tact. So, spend your summer relaxing (anywhere you can), drinking a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, with these 5 books in 5 weeks FFS knows you will enjoy.

Single and satisfied?
Not Michelle, Angela and Lisa. These saved but sexy, successful black women think they’re getting too old to keep waiting on God to send their soulmates. Under the protective eye of their more spiritual sistergirlfriend, Vanessa, and the scrutiny of newly saved manhater, Nicole, the ladies go on a hilarious adventure to “be found” by their husbands.

Armed with their list of essential must-have’s, would-be-nice’s, icing-on-the-cake’s, and total-deal-breakers, they start their search – but soon encounter issues specific to the saved woman on the dating scene. Is online dating okay for Christians? How long do you wait before you tell the hottie you just met that you’re celibate and plan to stay so until married? He’s too fine to pass up – how saved does he really need to be? And of course, how do you keep things holy when he’s oh-so-sexy?
It’s not long before they realize they still have to trust God to know what’s best for them and that He loves them enough to send them everything on The List. Get your copy today and to learn more about Sherri, visit her official site www.sherrilewis.com.

Check back next Friday to see which book was choosen as our second pick for a great Literary Escape.

FFS wants to know what books do you consider a great Literary Escape. Tell us all about it in our comments section.

The Faith Shop

2009-05-01T00:20:00.003-04:00

Place your book or item into our store for just $1! Contact us for more information.

May's Faithful Confession

2009-04-30T23:20:00.006-04:00

Even as women strong in faith, we still could use an extra boost of inspiration and encouragement to get us through the day. Sometimes you have to speak to your situation. These monthly “Faith Filled Confessions” were designed to get you talking. Drop us a line and tell us all about it.

Ephesians 4:22-32 (NKJV)

"...that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

Therefore, putting away lying, “ Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you."

Let us know how your confessions of God's word helped change your situation. Tell us about it in our comment section.

Michelle Peters is ChurchGurl

2009-04-30T23:04:00.005-04:00

Since launching ChurchGurl, it has become more than just a clothing line, it has become an empowering movement for women. ChurchGurls all over the country and abroad, including Africa and Europe are proudly wearing the sparkling signature thanks to a ChurchGurl appearance at Mega-Fest 2005. When asked about the significance of CG, Michelle simply states, “ I am a firm believer that it is imperative for ChurchGurls to be Sassy, Savvy and Saved; SASSY in our unique style, SAVVY in our biblical, spiritual, financial and political awareness and in our endeavors to do great things and make an impact in our community. And true ChurchGurls know that we are nothing without the power and love of God. We need to establish a solid relationship with Him…SAVED.”

To learn more about Michelle and her signature tees line, visit her official site http://www.churchgurl.com/ and tell her FFS sent you.

Advertise With Us

2009-04-30T21:05:00.005-04:00

Faith Filled Stilettos invites business owners, musicians, authors, and publishers to advertise with us. We’ve created 4 ways to get you noticed all while keeping enough money in your purse to buy those new pair of shoes you’ve been craving! Rates begin as low as $1!

1. Weekly Listing: Place your 125x125 button in our featured section under our network button on the right side of the page. Your listing will be featured on each page for one week from Monday morning to Sunday evening. Buttons will link back to your site.

2. Premium Listing: Go straight to the top with your banner featured directly under our featured content section. This also includes a link back to your product and a feature in our “Stilettos To Know” section along with a brief write up and contact information. Only 2 slots available per month.

3. Virtual Window Shopping: Get seen by placing your ad on our page in the Virtual Window Shopping area.

4. The Faith Shop: Place your book or items from Amazon in our own store front. Just $1.00!

5. Podcast Interview: Podcasts are becoming increasing popular and a vital way to promote your work or business. Along with a 30 minute interview from our sister site Sistah Confessions, you will also get a MP3 to post on your own network/site, and an eblast sent to our subscribers.

Contact us for more information and prices.
FFS reserves the right to refuse any site, product, or service we consider does not support our vision.

Be Featured

2009-04-30T18:22:00.005-04:00

Show Everyone You’re A Diva with Faith Filled Stilettos
Thank you for visiting Faith Filled Stilettos. We hope you enjoyed each article that was written to inspire and edify you. We are so glad you came and would love for you to show your support in the following ways…

Stilettos Pay It Forward:
Let’s link together. Provide a link to our site on your page or grab our button. Then send us your info with the name of your website or blog in the subject line, along with a short description and we will add it our site. (For image buttons, please send html code or jpeg, tif, or png format).

Stilettos Mean Business:
Are you a business owner, or do you have a product or service that meets the vision of FFS? Send us your product or book you’d like for us to review or want to sponsor in one of our giveaways. Our readers are savvy shoppers. Why not send us a coupon code exclusively for them.

Stilettos Keep It Simple:
So many websites, so little time. Subscribe to this site and make your life easier. Updates will be sent straight to your inbox. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Stilettos Have Something To Say:
Do you have a voice that needs to be heard? Get interviewed and featured in FFS. We love showcasing women who are doing their thing for the Lord. Men, we love you too! Drop us a line and give our readers something good to talk about.

Stilettos Stick Together:
God created everything by connection. It is not good for a Stiletto to be alone. Come on over to the Faith Filled Stilettos Network and join other women who love to talk, shop, and swap stories about life and everything in between. Register today and start sharing those photos, blogs, and valuable information!

Contact us for more information.

FFS reserves the right to refuse any site, product, or service we consider does not support our vision.

Featured Contributors

2009-04-29T09:13:00.036-04:00

Tifany Jones is searching for The Perfect Stiletto and will stop at nothing to get it. In her column, Tifany hopes to empower women to want to live a better life, because she knows it's out there. Through her personal search for God's perfect will she will reveal the ups, downs, and everything in between that still causes her to remain faithful. Added with a little window shopping of current events and things that make you go hmmm... The Perfect Stiletto promises to be a unique "shopping" experience. View Tifany's column, "The Perfect Stiletto"

Elizabeth Hamilton provides the creative and sassy side to FFS with her column What Are You Clothed In. While keeping women in the know of the latest fashion must haves and do's and don'ts, Elizabeth never lets us forget that true beauty is found within and secured in a relationhip with God. View her column, "What Are You Clothed In"

Every article written by relationship expert Tanya White is rated R for being Real, Relevant, and Refreshing! In Truth Be Told, Tanya declares with boldness that, "Yes you can have drama free relationships!" Whether you are struggling in your marriage, dating situations, friendships or business relationships, Tanya has a word for you whether you want to hear it or not! View Tanya's column, "Truth Be Told"

In a world full of hurt and pain Angela Alexander reminds us to Be Inspired through the sharing of her testimony that has helped transform lives. While suffering her own losses and setbacks, Angela is determined more than ever to teach the reader how to turn pain into power and grief into peace. There is a miracle in action of the inside of you.

View Angela's column, "Be Inspired"

Tameshia Mitchell is The Single Saved Sistah. With hilarious dialogue and out-of-the-box thinking, Tameshia has decided that being single is not a death sentence, but a journey to finding her true identity in God. She is committed to living a life that is holy and acceptable even when temptation comes her way. View Tameshia's column, "The Single Saved Sistah"

The Single Saved Sistah

2009-04-28T16:02:00.004-04:00

This Month’s Hot Topic for The Single Saved Sistah is…

The Live In Boyfriend A.K.A. The Live In Boaz

Now ladies, y'all know with your saved sanctified selves that Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior is not down with the get down going down before the touchdown. Some of you may be asking, “What is the touchdown?” Let me be the one to explain it to you. The touchdown is marriage. You know the state of being lawfully united to a person of the opposite sex as husband and wife. It’s what us single sistahs want, at least most of us.

It’s also why I’ve witnessed so many of us single Christian women in compromising situations, especially giving everything written in Proverbs 31 to a knock-off Boaz in return for his stay. Newsflash, this type of man is only after one thing and once he gets it he’s packing his bags in search of the next vacationing spot! How can his intentions be honorable if they don’t line up with the word of God? Don’t let good sex cause you to make a bad decision. The fleeting pleasure he gives you is nothing compared to the unconditional love God has for you. That’s like trying to compare a diamond with a cubic ziconia. Just because it looks good doesn’t mean it has any real value.

Knowing who I am in Christ keeps me from being any man’s sampling tray. Shoot, I am the appetizer, soup, salad, entree', and dessert. If I decide to give away all my goodies it better come attached with a ring, a minister, and some wedding gifts because before all is said and done I plan to get compensated spiritually and financially. Plus the Bible is very clear when it says to abstain from fornication. I for one am too scared of the pits of hell to let some dude nimble on the gristle before marriage.

Now, I know what some of you are thinking. What about those who are not having sex with their live in Boaz? What if they are just getting to know one another before making the decision to be married? I may be young, but I not naïve. It is still wrong! I don't care which way you spin it, wrong is wrong in the eyes of the Lord.

Don’t sacrifice your true Boaz for a cheap imitation. Wait on God and be content with your single status. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven…” Never move into anything prematurely. The price may be more than you are willing to pay.

Single Saved Sistah Tameshia Mitchell is a 24 year old college student and mother of one with dreams of becoming a fulltime writer. In this blog, she'll use her past relationship experience, including a recent divorce to impart wisdom and advice to those women who’ve found themselves in a similar situation. How do you continue to believe God when everything seems to be falling apart? What about trust? Dating? Marriage after the first one ended in disaster? Through a fresh and laid back dialogue, Tameshia will answer these questions and more while taking readers on a journey of the Single Saved Sistah. Buckle your seatbelts. It’s going to be a faithful, but bumpy ride.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-04-28T00:58:00.006-04:00

May 10, 2009 is Mother's Day and we've got some really great gift
ideas for you to give to your mom. Show her how special she is while spending less than $100. These gifts will make your mom and your wallet happy!

1. Godiva's 19pc. Mother's Day BattolinChocolate a woman's best friend, so you can't go wrong with this tasty and luxuriously wrapped surprise of pralinés, caramels, fruit and nut pieces, truffles, and more. Get It Now!

2. Kind Notes' Momma Note SeriesThis gift not only shows mom how much you love her, but tells her too! Each of the 31 messages created by you or from a selected list of handwritten messages come individually wrapped for added fun!Get It Now!

3. Flora By Gucci Eau de Toilette SprayNothing says royalty more than the scent of Gucci's new frangrance Flora "inspired by the Princesses from the past, the present and the future…" This is for the refined woman who wants a bit of an edge.Get It Now!

What Are You Clothed In?

2009-04-28T00:36:00.005-04:00

If you are a red carpet enthusiast, like me, you know the all too predictable question that rolls off the tongue of every fashion pundit during awards season: “So, who are you wearing?” Whether the fashionista in question says Tracy Reese, Alexander McQueen, or Dior, we already have formed our opinion and the name behind the design doesn’t mean much. The same goes for us as we walk our own runways, whether it be the produce aisle at the grocery store or the hallway of our child’s school, or the corridors of our places of employment. The labels in our clothing don’t matter as much as how we carry off a look. I would even venture to say that the clothes don’t matter much at all…

But I would add one caveat to that last statement by asking a question of my own. Rather than who are you wearing? I would ask, “what are you clothed in?” It’s a simple twist to a trite Hollywood question that I believe will help put things into perspective. In Proverbs 31, as a queen instructs her son on finding a proper wife, she relays a litany of virtuous ideals and among them that “strength and honor are her clothing.” We know from the previous verses that her physical clothing “is purple and fine linen..” Neither purple nor linen are the name of haute couture designers, but in those days we know that purple and linen were symbols of high status.
However, the queen makes a point of assessing the statement behind the clothing. She makes up her mind about the person in the clothing—no matter what the label says. What is important, according to the queen, is that she wears strength and honor at all times.

So, no matter if you got your shoes from Payless or Christian Louboutin, if you wear strength and honor the clothes will be secondary. It’s amazing how character flaws cannot be compensated for with expensive designer clothes. But the opposite is not true. If you conduct yourself with virtue, very few people will make clothing labels an issue. A woman’s strength and dignity, her virtue, will help her make appropriate clothing decisions and pull any look off the ultimate confidence.

With all this in mind, I would like to ask you a question: what are you clothed in?

Elizabeth Carmel Hamilton is a wife and mother of two. She is also an artist in addition to pursuing a PhD in art history at the University of Florida. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, shopping, and cooking.

Wondering what's hot and what's not or the top three things every Stiletto must have in their wardrobe? Contact Elizabeth at fashionista@faithfilledstilettos.com. She has the information you need to make you look fabulous!

Bitterness: Not In My House

2009-04-15T09:12:00.009-04:00

Paulette Harper

Bitterness: Not In My House

Ruth 1:20-22 (Amplified Bible)
And she said to them, Call me not Naomi pleasant; call me Mara bitter, for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, but the Lord has brought me home again empty. Why call me Naomi, since the Lord has testified against me, and the Almighty has afflicted me?

If you have never read this story, here we have a woman whose life was drastically changed. First, she and her husband, Elimelech, and their two sons left Bethlehem because of a severe famine.

Looking for a better life, they journeyed to Moab. While in Moab, Naomi’s husband, Elimelech, dies, and ten years later, her two sons die, leaving her to care for her two daughters-in-law. Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, but upon returning she has no husband or sons, instead a bitter heart.

Just as Naomi did not understand why God had chosen to take her through one of the most challenging experiences in life, I pondered as well. Just like a child growing up in life you have expectation and plans that usually don’t include bruises, flat tires, accidents and bumps in the road.

But I found that even when the unexpected things in life do occur, God has a plan and purpose to make something good out of the worse situations. Can you believe that?

At 42 years of age I found hope, encouragement and a renewed spirit while going through a divorce. Although my dilemma was not one in which I welcomed or embraced I had to accept that this part of my life God had known about before the foundation of the world.

He was taking me through one of the most unpleasant times in my life but I had to trust that the one in which I had given my life to, knew exactly what was best for me. There was something about my life that He was going to reveal and what I had faced and conquered was really going to alter my life forever. I had one choice to make either I was going to allow myself to be bitter with what He had allowed or I was going to let the situation develop and make me into a better person, I decided to use the situation as a catalyst to make my life better.

God was using my circumstances to bring me to a place of maturity, confidence and total dependency on Him. I learned not to look at my current condition although quite hard at times but I had to realize that some day God would show me why He had chosen me to carry this particular cross. There was a bigger picture that God had for my life, a picture that was revealed at the beginning of 2007. God wanted me to begin telling people what He had did for me during my ordeal and how He carried me through the rages of life.

So many times I wanted to give up, throw in the towel and quit but something inside me would not let me. Gods’ spirit was constantly bringing comfort to me, guiding me and assuring me that everything was going to work out for my good.

Romans 8:28 (Amplified Bible):
We are assured and know that God being a partner in their labor all things work together and are fitting into a plan for good to and for those who love God and are called according to His design and purpose.

Naomi’s plight:
God allowed her husband and both sons to die in order to get her and Ruth back to Bethlehem so Ruth and Boaz could meet. Ruth and Boaz had a son
named Obed, who was the father of Jesse, and Jesse, was the father of David the King, who was the father of Solomon.

After a lineage of forty–two generations, we get to Jacob, who was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, who birthed Christ. God caused Naomi to lose everything she loved so that He could get her into position of receiving more than she could ever have gotten in Moab.

Naomi had no idea of the plan God had in store for her and Ruth. Sometimes when we are faced with hardships beyond measure it’s hard for us to even grasp or accept that things can get better. This is when you must exercise your faith. It is in this place where your faith will be tested, stretched and tired. God already knows you can handle everything that comes against you, but you need to know you are well equipped to handle everything as well.

Well as for me, writing has become one of my passions. Inspiring, encouraging and motivating others to rise above the muck and mire is what I have been called to do.

You have a choice to make, either you are going to allow the situation to overtake you and you become bitter or you say with a firm, bold stance “not in my house”! Bitterness cannot abide here!

I encourage you this day. Even when it appears that things don’t always go according to our plans, God plans are better. Choose to let the disappointments in life make you into a better person. Don’t allow your heart to become bitter with was has happened, embrace the changes, embrace the new things, embrace the season of new beginnings.

Paulette Harper is an emerging Christian Author making her debut with her first inspirational book “That Was Then, This Is Now, This Broken Vessel Restored”. You can learn more about her by visiting her official site http://www.bvministry.com/.

"After The Music Stops" with Yunek, Exodus Three: Seventeen

2009-04-14T10:53:00.003-04:00

“Have you ever loved someone so much, gave them you all, but it wasn’t good enough?”

This is a question Yunek (pronounced “Unique”) asks on her thought provoking song Have You Ever from her debut CD titled Exodus Three: Seventeen. This particular song grabs the attention of the listener because most of us can relate to being in love with someone who didn’t love us back. In her search for answers, Yunek does what many of us can’t. She prays and asks for the strength to forgive the one who hurt her while leading the listener into the melodic flow of songs to follow that capture our ears and heart.

Through her writing, singing, and producing, Yunek’s songs embody a refreshing blend of reality and inspiration that is sure to reach all generations. Yunek’s vision is to Educate, Empower, Encourage, and Enlighten not only the body of Christ but also the unbeliever in a way that gives them a desire to know and live by the Fruit of the Spirit. These passions lead her to write the first single “Got Fruit” derived from how she came to know and use “the Fruit” from Galatians 5:22. With follow-up singles like the dance themed “Straddle the Fence” and “Lean on Christ” to the socially conscious “On Fire” and “Real Love”, it’s evident that Yunek intends to draw, minister to and be an example for the masses. Yunek never strays from the most important message-salvation. She explains, “Salvation is the key to real joy, it’s the only way to find and keep purpose in your life. On my album, I touch on the good and the bad, just like the Bible.”

With a perfect blend of smooth vocals, faith, and scripture, Yunek’s provided music lovers with a well rounded CD debut sure to encourage a deeper personal relationship with God.
I had the chance to ask Yunek three questions from my “After the Music Stops” column. Check out what she had to say.

FFS: Your first single “Got Fruit” talks about “the Fruits of the Spirit” from Galatians 5:22. What “fruit” do find is the hardest to display and why?

YUNEK: I believe the hardest fruit for me to display would be “self-control”. The hardest part is battling between my flesh and my spirit-man. My flesh (the old me) sometimes wants to respond to certain situations in ways that aren't pleasing to God, while the Holy Spirit that lives within me is reminding me to handle things in a Christ like manor. For example, back in the day when someone had done something wrong to me, my first instinct would have been to get revenge or to make them feel just as bad as I did. Now that I have a relationship with Christ and I live to please and be like Him, I have to control that vengeful desire because it is not pleasing to God. It contradicts everything I stand for as a Christian and does not show good character on my part. I would be just as wrong as that person who wronged me. So daily I remind myself to have self-control!

FFS: Ministry is not a job but a lifestyle for you, but how do you handle the business side of ministry without getting caught up in the “fine print” and losing focus on God?

YUNEK: A lot of things play a part of this; first and foremost, I always remember that God is guiding me on this journey. I asked God to divinely connect me with people who are on one accord with His vision for this ministry, people who have knowledge of the business, people who love the Lord and people who can keep me accountable and have my best interest at heart. These things help me balance the business side of ministry and my relationship with God! I had to realize that I can’t do everything on my own and those who are and have helped me, have been assigned by God!

FFS: If you could record a song with anyone who would it be?

YUNEK: I would love to record a song with my biggest musical inspiration, India Arie.

FFS: Yunek thank you for a wonderful interview and being the first artist interviewed by FFS. We appreciate you for following after the call God has on your life. Your future is bright, flowing with milk and honey!

To learn more about Yunek and her debut release Exodus Three: Seventeen, visit her online at www.myspace.com/yunek or her offcial website http://www.yunekmusic.com/.
Interview by Tifany Jones (Founder, Editor-In-Chief, FFS)

After The Music Stops features artists with a gift and heartbeat for God. They don't just sing. They minister. If that's you and you would like to be interviewed by FFS, send us an email at music@faithfilledstilettos.com.

Dating Down Does Not Lift You Up

2009-04-03T15:02:00.009-04:00

Excerpt Episode 8 of Tanya’s latest book Relationship Reruns

“I always date down. It keeps my self-esteem high,” Patrice confessed.

“What do you mean date down?” I inquired.

“Dating down is deliberating dating someone who has less than you do financially, intellectually, professionally, socially and emotionally so that they can think that they have hit the jackpot and smother you with loads of attention. It makes me feel a little superior to them so I am in complete control of the relationship. Feeling superior in my dating relationships lifts my self-esteem. I need for men to be totally into me and to think that I am the best thing that has happened to them. Girl, I need a lot of attention from men that is why I date down.”

“Patrice that is not healthy”, I said in shock. “Feeling superior to someone does not help keep your self-esteem lifted.”

“It may not over a long period of time, but it works for a while.” Patrice boldly added.

“Dating down. Do women really do that?” I continued to ask.

“It’s not just women,” Gerald interrupted. “Men date down too. I do it from time to time myself when my confidence is crashing.”

“Wow!”

This was the topic of conversation at breakfast one Saturday morning with a group of friends who I fellowship with frequently to discuss family, finances and romance. The subject of dating down literally floored me. I could not grasp the concept of “dating down.” It threw me for a loop. I could not internalize why such beautiful and financially independent professional men and women confessed that they engaged in a dysfunctional dating cycle to help keep their self-esteem high.

But a small inner voice reminded me that this was not a concept that was foreign to me. I may not have called it “dating down.” However, I had on many occasions subconsciously gravitated towards men whom I had absolutely nothing in common with. In fact the men in those “dating down” relationships gave me tons of uninterrupted attention, seemed more dedicated to making sure that I was totally satisfied and did not hesitate to frequently engage in excessive amounts of public displays of affection. But like oil and water these relationships did not mix.

A vast number of people who lower their standards believe that they can change a person into whoever they want them to be. If the person does not meet your dating standards and expectations when you first meet them then you should not force the relationship. Dating them, giving them money, taking them places that they have never been before, moving them into your house and the other crazy antics will never satisfy you because in the deep chambers of your soul you know that you have settled for less than what you deserve.

This concept of “dating down” is the premise for Ian Kerner, Ph.D national bestselling book Be Honest―You’re Not That Into Him Either. Kerner argues that today daters, particularly women are injecting themselves with intentional dating misery because they’ve gotten stuck on the dating treadmill or force themselves into relationships that go-nowhere. Kerner writes “ Go on enough bad dates and your hopes of finding love are sure to diminish. You start to make adjustments, taking the realistic and pragmatic approach. You begin to settle. You know that frogs don’t turn into princes, so you lower your standards enough until it gets difficult to tell the two apart.” In essence, this is the reasoning for Patrice and Gerald’s “dating down” concept.

Dating someone to build up your self-esteem is ineffective. Compatibility must be present on all levels-spiritually, financially, emotionally, professionally, intellectually―for any dating relationship to have longevity. Compatibility does not mean an exact sameness. However, it does mean that both of you are on the same playing field.

But when you get caught up in the fantasy that “dating down” is your only hope for romance, then your relationship becomes like a hamster running on the wheel. It runs around in a fast circle without a definite destination. Refuse to settle for less than your best because you will almost always end up in a relationship mess.

Tanya White is a Freelance Writer, Relationship/Lifestyle Enhancement Coach/Author/Radio Host. For more information about Tanya’s writing, books or to be a guest on her radio show Real Talk With Tanya White, please visit www.tanyawhite.com.

Have you or someone you know ever "dated down"? Comment on this story!

Be Inspired

2009-03-31T07:38:00.008-04:00

‘Be Inspired’

Hello my name is Angela Alexander, author and inspirational speaker of my autobiography titled, ‘Miracles in Action’. I truly believe in Divine connections. I met Tifany Jones, the founder of ‘Faith Filled Stilettos’ on-line magazine, as a result of being a guest on her radio show ‘Sistah Confessions’.

I am so excited to be a part of this magazine. I know it will challenge and strengthen me as a writer while still allowing me to be in alignment with my purpose and assignment from God. God gave me an amazing testimony, and all He asked me to do is tell someone.

In this column, we’re going to go through the heartaches to miracles outlined in my book that will help you live your life in victory. I am going to share how I was able to choose, and say yes to God’s plans instead of the devil’s plots. However, this is not all about me. I invite you to share your inspirational testimony so others will be blessed and ‘Be Inspired’ as well.

Miracles In Action
When I was a little girl, my sister Alice and I overheard my mother’s friend say, “The seventh child is the wonder child.” My parents had eight children so immediately we looked at one another and began to count on our fingers each sibling beginning with the oldest. Even after Alice demanded her third re-count, I continued to hold that seventh position. I embraced the phrase of my mother’s friend, as I stood a little taller. Her simple slogan planted a thought in my head the size of a mustard seed that grew into a strong, meaningful faith. It inspired and convinced me to believe that great wonders and adventures were destined to be a part of my life. Right then I made a decision that this would be so.

The lesson in this story is words are very powerful, and your children are listening and embracing what they hear, whether it’s positive or negative. If I would have heard and attached myself to a different phrase, such as “you’re stupid” or “you’re just like your father”, I could have formed a different opinion about myself.

Remember, children tend to buy into the negativity fed to them. Be mindful of the words you allow them hear, even your own. It takes sixteen positive comments to counteract each negative one! Instead, be an inspiration to yourself, and your children beginning with your thoughts, words, and actions.

Every decision you make will form their character. Make a conscious effort to speak life into your children. They are listening. If there is no enemy from within, the enemy outside has no power.

Please share your miracles in action testimony with us. Send it to beinspired@faithfilledstilettos.com, with ‘Be Inspired’ in the subject line.

~Be inspired and give inspiration~ Angela Alexander is a retired member of the United States Air Force Reserve who has served in the Philippines, Korea, Japan, Germany, Alaska, Hawaii, and several bases throughout the United States. She volunteers with her church’s prison ministry and was a foster parent for many years. An inspirational speaker, Angela shares her testimony with audiences nationwide. She lives with her husband and children in Southern California. Visit her official site www.miraclesinaction.com.

Submit A Prayer

2009-02-26T22:29:00.003-05:00

Prayer is one of the most powerful things we can do for one another, and FFS is committed to interceeding on your behalf by meeting together to lift your prayers to the Lord. Please submit your request or praise report.

About FSS

2009-01-30T15:50:00.006-05:00

Faith Filled Stilettos began as an idea in 2006 by Tifany "Jones" Berry. The idea was simple. Create a book that simplifies women's everyday lives by providing helpful resources found on the Internet. Three years later, and more mature in the Word of God, Tifany decided to take things a step further. Now, with the help of technology, Faith Filled Stilettos has evolved into an online magazine aimed to provide Christian women a place where they can connect, network, and share their faith.

Our mission is to create a place where women from all walks of life can come together to experience the true love of God, even through trials and tribulations. Sometimes we don't feel like serving God, but it's our faith that keeps and makes us whole.

Our vision is to see women step out on faith in every area of their life. Whether with family or starting a business, we dare to ask women, "Is there anything too hard for God?"

Join us bi-monthly as we combine faith and style in a publication designed specifically for you. A place where walking by faith never looked so good!™

Steppin Out'

2009-01-30T13:46:00.007-05:00

What good is it to have a great pair of shoes with no where to show them off? Grab your girlfriends and head out to any of these great events. Then come back and tell us all about it.

Have an upcoming event you want to share? Got pictures of an event you attended? Send your information to Faith Filled Events!

May 2009
The G.O.D. Tour w/ Canton Jones
Family Life Center
May 2, 2009, 6pm
Richmond, VA
edpromo@aol.com

Dinner Confessions w/ Vanessa Miller
Hosted by Sistah Confessions Book Club
May 9, 2009, 5pm
Bowie, MD
http://www.sistahconfessions.com/

Shirley Caesar and Mary Mary
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel
May 10, 2009
Tampa, FL
http://www.ticketmaster.com/

Black Book Festival
May 16-17, 2009
Houston, TX
http://www.nationalblackbookfestival.com/

June 2009
Sistah Faith Conference
June 12-13, 2009
Tallahassee, FL
http://www.sistahfaith.com

Faith and Fiction Retreat
Power of The Pen
June 16-19, 2009
Orlando, FL
http://www.faithandfictionretreat.com/