Personalized Christmas Gifts

Looking for last-minute Christmas gifts for kids? Or possibly for an upcoming birthday?

Consider KBWA Member, Margo Cromartie-McClure's business. She offers personalized books for children. I personally have one of these, and they are fabulous! Children love to read a book that they are in.

Visit http://www.justformesmiles.com/ for full details!

The One Flaw in Women

One Flaw In Women

Women have strengths that amaze men.....

They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.

They sing when they want to cry.

They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in.

They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.

They love unconditionally.

They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.

They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.

They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN, IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

~ Author Unknown

What is Prosperity?

As Christians in America, "prosperity" is a word that has been, at times, used and abused by some teachers and ministers. As people of faith, we have become wary of its mere mention. The reality is, prosperity is a Biblical term and prosperity is a God-ordained state of being (or not being). However, I want to share a new perspective on this topic - one you may not have realized before. It starts with this statement from Pastor Gregory Dickow:

“Redefine prosperity - Prosperity IS God’s presence in your life. Genesis 39:2 says the Lord was with Joseph, so he was a PROSPEROUS MAN.”

Does this strike you as it does me? God's presence is the definition of prosperity. When God's presence is with you, you are prosperous. When God's presence is with me, I am prosperous. Prosperity does have evidence in the natural realm as well, including provision, wisdom, a fullness of life, and favor, but it all starts with God's Spirit being present with us.

There are all kinds of prayers that we pray for blessings of various types; material goods, finances, children, relationships, healing, etc. God knows what we need and it is good to express the desires of our hearts with Him. But, let's take prayers for blessings a step further.

Psalm 119:135 says, "Bless me with Your presence." I believe we need to ask for more of God's presence by seeking, praying, worshipping, and reading the Word more. When His Spirit fills us up powerfully, daily, then our prosperity will know no bounds!

Jabez prayed to have his territory enlarged. If we want to also pray that same prayer, I believe our ability to love needs to be enlarged first. This comes through fellowship with God; His presence. As you can see, it's all working together!

Taken from the KBWomen *BLING* Newsletter. Sign up today at www.KBWomen.com.

Free Newsletters

Hello Readers,

I pray that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving week, and you're ready for the busy Christmas month!

A quick note for you today about email newsletters. If you are a business woman of faith, you may enjoy receiving our KBWomen newsletter called *BLING*. It goes out via email twice a month, and includes articles, scripture, a featured business woman, event info, and more.

You can sign up now at www.KBWomen.com - it's on the home page. You can also view archives of the newsletters by visiting the Newsletter link.

Also, I personally offer a free newsletter of a different kind. It's called the "Gifts & Calling Newsletter," and it has information for people interested in learning more about their God-given gifts and calling. I have been getting great response so far, and would love for you to know about it.

Learn more at www.StepOutandTakeYourPlace.com. As you will see, I have an upcoming book on this topic! Here is a link to the archives of this newsletter: http://community.icontact.com/p/kbwomen/newsletters/yourgiftedlife

By the way, did you know you can create your own newsletter system? I use iContact, and have been very happy with this service. They offer a free trial period to test it out. To learn more about iContact, visit this link: http://www.icontact.com/a.pl/508058/

Enjoy your blessed day,
Krista Dunk

Looking to Create a Business Website?

Hello Business Women of Faith!

Thank you for visiting us here at the KBWomen blog. Today, we're talking about business websites. Do you need one, but aren't sure where to start? I can help!

Listen now to the (45 minute) KBWomen Radio Show for Monday, Nov. 8th, where Krista shares her thoughts and knowledge about creating a website.

Link: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2010/11/08/kb-women-radio

Please share this broadcast with anyone you know who has business website questions. Enjoy your blessed week everyone.

Krista Dunk

www.KBWomen.com

The Rush of Life, by Katie Nolan

This is the quick intro for a monthly devotional Katie offers. I thought you might enjoy reading it. To sign up for her devotionals via email, send her a note at kknolan@comcast.net.

Sometimes the rush of life becomes a roar and we lose sight of what is truly needful. The Psalmist said "I have calmed and quieted my soul" (Psalm 131). I have quieted my appetites and emotions and set my focus squarely on God.

We can get carried along by the rush of life and slowly begin to lose sight of the need to stop, rest, and take a moment to breathe. We sign up for so many things, rush from place to place, even ministry to ministry, and our constant activity becomes a way of living. God is faithful to stop our movement at times so we can be refreshed and fix our focus fully back upon Him.

Success is not measured by the amount of things we accomplish each day. Success is listening to our Father and doing His will. That is hard to do if we are so busy moving we never take time to communicate with Him.

Contributed by Katie Nolan
lia sophia Unit Manager
www.liasophia.com/katienolan

Faith - Hope - Love. Which One Could You Live Without?

Faith, Hope and Love

While I was driving today, I was contemplating how important hope is for people. Without it, people dry up inside. The next thought I had was about love. "Well, the combination of hope and love in a person's life is so powerful," I thought to myself. Faith then entered the scene in my mind, completing the third leg of this table. Quickly, my mind brought up the verse that says,

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." -1 Corinthians 13:13

Could we live without one of these? Do we live without one of these?

Interestingly, in this section of the Bible, Paul is writing about spiritual gifts and the work God has called each of us to. We'll come back to this thought in a moment...

What about living without faith?

Without faith, we focus on the natural, rather than on the unseen things God is doing around us. Without faith, there is no confidence to hope. It's easy to set up our lives in such a way that having great faith is not usually necessary. I've done it myself. In many areas of life, I rarely find myself with a need that requires faith (although in a few areas, there are needs that require much faith). Structure can replace faith if we are not careful.

What about living without hope?

Not sure I can say I'm someone who lives without hope (or ever have), but I've definitely known people who have. There is a particular person that comes to mind who lived without hope. She was sick, depressed, lonely, and ended up taking her own life. Hopelessness is more dangerous than we may realize.

What about living without love?

Now, most of us will say we live with love because we have people we love, or relationships who love us. God loves us, right? Right...but in this section of the Bible, we see that Paul is talking about having an attitude of love as we use our gifts, as we work and as we influence others around us. Loving someone and being loving (actions, behaviors, core being) are two very different things. I imagine that God hestitates to equip a loveless person with power.

1 Corinthians 12 and 13 are good chapters to meditate on. This segment serves as a very good reminder. It can help us to reconcile who we show up as in the world with the character God wants us to bring with as we go. It will help us answer this question:

What gifts and purpose has God given me, and how (with what spirit) does He want me to use them?

Just sharing my random thoughts with you today...thank you for reading. :-)

Krista Dunk

www.KBWomen.com

Money and Ministry

Hello Friends!
For you who are involved in non-profits, ministries or other businesses, this article is a great guide for the proper mindset about money and our work. Enjoy...

Money and Ministry by Asher Intrater

The relationship between money and ministry is very sensitive. Let's look at a few issues:

Lordship
We never do anything in the ministry for the sake of getting money. Yeshua said, "You cannot serve God and Mammon" – Matthew 6:24. Of course we need money for the work of the Lord, and God knows that. He will provide. We are never to worry (Matthew 6:25). Yet the motives we have for serving the Lord are not to make a profit.

Not Merchandising
Therefore we are not to treat the word of God and the anointing of the Holy Spirit as a product to be marketed. It is not merchandise. "We are not like many who make commerce of the word of God" – II Corinthians 2:17. We are to be good stewards and act as responsible business professionals in the manner of our work, yet we are not to see the power of God as something to be sold. "Your money perish with you, for you thought to buy the gift of God with money" – Acts 8:20. The subtle ability to manipulate manifestations of God's grace as a trick to bring in donations is evil at its root (I Timothy 6:10).

Faith to Give
As we grow in faith, God teaches us to trust Him to be able to give more and more to help others. Yeshua purposely placed His disciples in a test. There were 5,000 men, in addition to women and children, in attendance. The people needed food. Yeshua said to His disciples, "You give them to eat" – Matthew 14:16. God demanded of them to change their identity from a taker to a giver, from being a needy person to being a supplier of needs. There is supernatural provision in faith.

Recently I felt God limiting my faith to be able to provide for the needs of our ministry. He wanted our staff and team members to grow in faith. After prayer, I told them, "Now you will begin to have faith to give and provide." This is part of discipleship. As we learn to give, God will provide. After the disciples fed the 5,000, Yeshua told them to gather all the crumbs. There were 12 baskets left over – enough for one basket to each disciple. God's economy is lavish in giving, yet frugal in expenses.

Paying Taxes
Paying taxes to the government is very costly and sometimes seems to be a waste of God's money. However, we are instructed to pay taxes as part of our faith in God (Romans 13:6). The tax services are not bothered by the fact that a person receives a lot of money. Quite the contrary – they just want their percentage of the income.

Yeshua instructed Peter to receive a supernatural supply of money to pay the religious tax on the Temple by taking money out of a fish's mouth (Matthew 17:27). He also instructed all the people to pay the secular tax to the government. "Give unto Caesar what is Caesar's; and unto God what is God's" – Matthew 22:21. We have to distinguish between God and Caesar. Those who have money are not necessarily more spiritual. On the other hand, we can't over-spiritualize money. We have to pay bills; and we have to pay taxes. The rabbis have an expression, "Without bread (flour), there is no Torah; and without Torah, there is no bread" – Pirke Avot 3.

Keeping Records
There were moments in history of revival and abundance, where keeping records of every expense was not necessary (II Kings 22:7). However in our world today, there is much suspicion and much financial pressure. We have to be diligent in keeping records correctly. The process of keeping records is what demonstrates integrity. "That no one should blame us in these great donations, which are administered by us. We have determined to act with integrity, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men" - II Corinthians 8:20-21. We purpose to show our morality, not just before God, but also toward men.

Don't Be Offended
One of the reasons that Judas betrayed Yeshua was that he saw Miriam of Bethany pour expensive perfume on Yeshua. He thought it was wasteful. He was offended (and was also stealing money himself). This offense triggered his betrayal (Matthew 26:14). Don't let yourself fall into the same trap.

Don't Compare
Comparing salaries and benefits can cause jealousy and anger. "Why does that person receive more than I do? I work harder than he does." Yeshua addressed this issue in the parable of the hired workers. Some worked longer hours. They expected more money. They were offended that they did not receive more. Yeshua answered, "Friend, I did not wrong you. Did you not agree to work for one denarius? Do I not have the right to do with my own money what I want? Are you envious because I am generous?" – Matthew 20:13, 15. The attitude that "I deserve this" is not appropriate when employed in service to the Lord. What we have is by His grace. One aspect of repentance is to be satisfied with one's earnings (Luke 3:14).

Wealth of the Nations
There are amazing promises of prosperity in the Bible. There are even prophecies that the "wealth of the nations" will come to us (Isaiah 60:5; 60:9; 60:11; 60:16; 61:6; Zechariah 14:14). Why would God want to bring us the wealth of the nations? It is not for us to live in luxury. The wealth of the nations will come to us in order to bring the gospel to the nations. Our motivation is not to GET the wealth of the nations, but to USE it. We desire not to take money from them but to give salvation to them. We need to enlarge our faith for giving, our faith for receiving, and our faith for the kingdom of God.

Written by Asher Intrater of www.revive-israel.org, and re-printed by www.frangipane.org

Life Wisdom

Just had to share this with you today; it's life wisdom from a 90-year-old woman named Regina Brett. I didn't include all of the items on her list, but here are some of the highlights:

1. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
2. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
3. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
4. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
5. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
6. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
7. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
8. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
9. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
10. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
11. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
12. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
13. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
14. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
15. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
16. Always choose life.
17. What other people think of you is none of your business.
18. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
19. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
20. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

I hope you enjoy these as much as I did. Have a blessed week everyone.

Krista Dunk, Koinonia Business Women - http://www.kbwomen.com/

KBWomen Radio - Want to Know Your Calling?

Hello Business Women!
Do you know that KBWomen has a radio show every Monday morning? Yes...9:30am Pacific, 12:30pm Eastern. We are part of the Christian Women Affiliate network, and we represent the business show. All of our archives are available at the main page: www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio.

This week, I recorded the show by myself, which is unusual. We normally have guests who we interview. However, this week I wanted to share a message from my heart to yours. If you want to know more about seeking God for His calling for your life, please listen in to this 37 minute show.

Listen to internet radio with CWA Radio on Blog Talk Radio

Enjoy! Have a great week,

Krista Dunk, KBWomen Co-Founder

Expo & Craft Show Event Tips

"Tips for a successful event"

Whether it's a small craft show or a booth at a large venue, there are some important things you can do to increase your chances of success.

1. Introduce yourself to your booth neighbors and show interest in their product or service. Try to refer customers to them, offer to watch their booth while they take a restroom break. The collaboration could earn you free networking information such as when and where other similar types of shows are being held.

2. Have a visually appealing space. Don't have food or cups lying around. Create appealing displays by adding dimension and color.

3. Always have enough change to break large bills. Be clear as to what forms of payment you accept.

4. Greet everyone, at least with a smile. At most events people walk around once and then later return to the booths they are interested in. Your smile, could bring them back to you.

5. Have fun and smile. People with be drawn to you and curious about your service or product.

Contributed by Chris Creekpaum, owner of Purs-onality Purses, Olympia, WA

A Pencil's Lesson

I had to share this great, simple message with you today. A friend emailed this to me recently, and it is definitely worth sharing:

A PENCIL MAKER TOLD THE PENCIL 5 IMPORTANT LESSONS JUST BEFORE PUTTING IT IN THE BOX :

1. Everything you do will always leave a mark.
2. You can always correct the mistakes you make.
3. The important thing is inside of you.
4. In life, you will undergo painful sharpenings, which will only make you better.
5. To be the best pencil, you must allow yourself to be held and guided by the hand that holds you.

You...a tool in the Master's hand! Enjoy your blessed day,

Krista Dunk, http://www.kbwomen.com/

Do You Know Your Everyday Calling?

Want to discover your God-given gifts? Want to stop wasting time, mental energy and effort on things you're not sure is God's will for your life? Do you enjoy your role on Sundays serving at church, but then remain unsatisfied with Monday - Saturday? Believe me...I've been there...But I did not stay there!

Just 1 week left to register for the October 2nd, 3-hour workshop in Lacey, WA, called The "Your Everyday Calling Workshop."

In this workshop, Krista Dunk will take participants through a series of exercises, assessments, group work, and questions to help each participant begin to seek God for His plan for their lives. Registration is just $34. For the cost of a pair of shoes, the information gained will be priceless...
Just a few spots left to be filled - sign up today at http://www.youreverydaycalling.com/!

Hope to see you there...

Love Me Where You're At - By Pastor Francis Frangipane (En Español)

I have discovered that, as we seek the Lord, our most difficult periods can be transformed into wonderful breakthroughs into God's love. For me, one such season occurred during the years 1979 to1981. The association of churches with which I was aligned had fallen under spiritual deception. Not only were its core doctrines increasingly seeded with New Age influences, but immorality crept in, and key leaders began leaving their wives for other women. I could no longer remain silent. As a result, in 1979 I left my congregation in Detroit, Michigan, where I had served as pastor, and traveled to the organization's regional headquarters in Iowa. I came to plead for repentance. However, after meeting with the senior leaders, I was asked to leave the group.

So here we were – we had left our church, we had no money, and we had four little children; we couldn't even afford basic housing. Desperate for anything, we finally found an old farmhouse in rural Washington, Iowa. The home was over a hundred years old, but it actually looked much older. After negotiating with the landlord, we were given a year of free rent provided I did basic repairs to the house, such as cleaning and painting.

Even so, the house needed more than I could provide. The furnace did not work well, so we installed a wood burner stove in the kitchen. That first winter, it turned out, was one of the coldest in Iowa's history. Frost formed on the inside walls, spreading a foot or two around each window; wind chills dropped to 60 below, and even colder on several occasions.

To keep warm each night, the whole family cuddled tightly on one large mattress on the dining room floor, about 18 feet from the wood burner in the kitchen. A fan behind the stove nudged warm air in our direction. My nightly project, of course, was to build enough heat in the stove to keep us warm until morning.

While I worked the fire, I also would pray and seek God. The wood burner became a kind of altar to me, for each night as I prayed, I offered to God my unfulfilled dreams and the pain of my spiritual isolation. Yes, I knew the Lord was aware of our situation. Though we had virtually nothing, He showed Himself to us in dozens of little ways. I just didn't know what He wanted of me.

As the seasons came and went, another child was born, and then we fostered a young girl from Vietnam, giving us six children. Still, as the family grew, the little area around the wood burner became a hallowed place to me. Even in the summer, I would sit on the chair next to the stove and pray and worship.

I would like to say I found the joy of the Lord during this time, but in truth, though I gradually adjusted to my situation, I felt an abiding misery in my soul. Our deep poverty was an issue (I barely made $6,000 a year), but more than that, I felt like I had missed the Lord. My continual prayer was, "Lord, what do You want of me?"

Three years of seeking God passed, and I still carried an emptiness inside. What was God's will for me? I had started a couple Bible studies and spoken a few times in churches, but I so identified with being a pastor that, until I was engaged again in full-time ministry, I feared I had lost touch with God's call on my life.

In spite of this inner emptiness concerning ministry, I actually was growing spiritually, especially in areas that were previously untilled. I went through the Gospels, hungry to study and obey the words of Christ. Previously, I had unconsciously defined a successful ministry as something born of my performance. During this time, however, the Lord reduced me to simply being a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Indeed, a number of things I thought were biblical I discovered were really just religious traditions. The Lord desired that I take inventory of my heart and examine those few truths for which I would be willing to die. He said the truths for which I would die, for these I should live.

Frankly, things like the timing of the rapture or nuances about worship style or spiritual gifts dropped in their priority, though I still considered them important. Rising to the top of my focus was a passion to be a true follower of Jesus Christ – to obey His teachings and approach life not merely as a critic but more as an encourager. I also found myself increasingly free to enjoy and learn from Christians from other streams and perspectives.

Yet, these changes, though deep and lasting, occurred slowly, almost imperceptibly. They were happening quietly in my heart, and only in hindsight did I see what the Lord had done. Throughout this time, I was preoccupied with feelings of detachment from God's will. My prayer to know the Lord's plan for me continued daily.

The Breakthrough - One day, as I stood in the kitchen pantry, I repeated again my abiding prayer: "Lord, what do You want of me?" In a sudden flash of illumination, the Lord answered. Speaking directly to my heart, He said, "Love Me where you're at."

In this time and season, remember, I was not a pastor or minister. I was a television repairman doing odd jobs on the side to provide for my family. I hated what I was doing. In my previous church I taught against TV and now I was "laying hands" on television sets and raising them from the dead! The Lord's answer cut straight to my heart. I was awed at its simplicity! I asked, "Love You where I am at? Lord, is that all You want of me?" To this He responded, "This is all I will ever require of you."

In that eternal moment peace flooded my soul and I was released from the false expectation of ministry-driven service. God was not looking at what I did for Him, but who I became to Him in love. The issue in His heart was not whether I pastored, but whether I loved Him. To love the Lord in whatever station I found myself – even as a television repairman – this I could do!

A deep and remarkable transformation occurred in me. My identity was no longer in being a pastor but rather in becoming a true lover of God. Having settled my priorities, amazingly, just a couple days later I was invited to pastor a church in Marion, Iowa. In spite of all my previous anxiety about returning to ministry, I did not jump at the opportunity. For I had found what the Lord truly desired of me. Though I eventually accepted this call, my focus was not merely on leading a church but on loving God.

What God SeeksMore than one's ministry, God seeks our love. His great commandment is that we love Him, ultimately, with all our mind, all our heart, and all our soul and strength. If we love Him, we will fulfill all He requires of us (John 14:15). And it is as we love Him that He orchestrates all things to work together for our good (Rom. 8:28).

Beloved, loving God is not hard. We can fulfill any assignment – auto mechanic or housewife, doctor or college student – and still give great pleasure to our heavenly Father. We do not need ministry titles to love the Lord. Indeed, God measures the value of our lives by the depth of our love. This is what He requires of every true God-seeker: to love Him where we are at.

Lord Jesus, the revelation of Your love has swept me off my feet. Lord, You have drawn me and I run after You. Master, even in the mundane things of life, I shall express my love for You. Consume me in Your love.

by Frangipane Ministries, Inc.Copyright (c) 2010 All rights reserved. Unless otherwise stated, all Scripture quotations were taken from the NASB.
Please visit our website for additional messages and resources. If you wish to contact us with comments or questions about this article, you may do so by writing us at comments@frangipane.org.

To Celebrate (or compete with) Someone's Calling...

"The Lord has assigned to each his task...The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor." -from 1 Corinthians 3

In business and life, we come in contact with lots of talented people. We see leaders, CEO's, pastors, and mentors doing great things and making a difference in the world; planting and watering as 1 Corinthians discusses. That is often what we desire for ourselves and is one of the purposes of our businesses.

The problem is when an unhealthy spirit of competition rises up within us. When this happens, we covet someone else's position, impact and/or gifts. Have you ever had thoughts rise up that say things like, "I could do their job or run their business better, why don't I have that ability, how did they get to that level without the education level I have, or why did she get that opportunity and not me?" We may not realize it, but we may be coveting and competing with that other person's calling, rather than supporting it.

Maybe the truth is you could do their job better. Maybe you could have done something great with that opportunity or position too. But honestly, it doesn't matter. God knows the plans He has for you. He knows the good works He has called you to. Their calling is not your calling.

Having not known God's plan for me for many years, I say this from personal experience; Many of us who do not operate in our gifts and calling feel frustrated, and feel a sense of competition with those who do. I am not talking about the feelings you get when you see someone effectively using their gifts and abilities that spur you on to the next level, to getting creative or towards growth, as that is a good thing! I am talking about judgmental feelings; competitive feelings; jealous feelings; unsupportive feelings; even feelings of self doubt.

On the flip side, when we understand our role and God's unique plan for us, celebrating someone else's gifts and calling becomes easier. Being critical fades away, and encouragement replaces it. We begin to recognize when someone else has stepped up to take their place in business, in ministry or in life and we can celebrate and support them! Then, we can even feel more confident about, celebrate and thank God for the work He is doing through us as well.

Just keeping it real :-)

by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com, www.YourEverydayCalling.com

The "Your Everyday Calling Workshop" Invitation

Do you know your everyday calling? Join Krista Dunk on October 2nd, in Lacey, WA, for a 3-hour workshop. Please view this 4-minute video with more info, then visit www.YourEverydayCalling.com for full details. See you there!

Dream Chaser

"On your mark... get set... G…… Hey, wait a minute... you didn’t wait until I said go. Hold up. Okay, fine. I can catch you anyway, at least I hope I can. I can. I will."

So, I run down the road, onto the gravel, hop over logs, up the dunes, down to the beach, into the waves, out again, into town, in the house, up the stairs. I stop.

"Hello? Where are you? I was right behind you for awhile but I couldn’t keep up. Why are you always running ahead of me? Yes, I am talking to you, my Dream. Why are you always running ahead of me? All I want to do is catch up with you. Can I do that for just a moment? All I desire, my Dream, is to live for a moment in unison with you. That is all I ask – just a moment here and there to live in unison with you. Did I make a wrong turn? Should I go back? Why do you avoid me? Why do you stay just out of my reach? Maybe the better question is why do I keep following you? Why?"

"O.K., really, why?"

"It’s simple really... because I believe in you, my Dream. And when the moment comes that I do catch up to you, and live in unison with you, that moment is a miracle. A natural occurrence of life."

Life is about following a dream wherever it may take me. And miracles are as natural as breath. The only thing unnatural about miracles is when they don’t happen.

So, yes I will follow my Dream. I will chase it, I will find short cuts if I can – but the key is that I know we will have our moments of unison – my Dream and I.

My life is nothing but living in, being with, waiting for, expecting soon, and sincerely pursuing my dreams and thus I live a life of miracles.

by Teri Hawkins - Master Teacher, International Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Philanthropist, Money Magazine's Top 1000 Female Entrepreneurs, and President of the National Speakers Club www.NationalSpeakersClub.com

Do You Tap His Power Within?

My computer has alot of power and capacity that I barely even use. Sometimes, as Christians, I think we are the same way. Equipped with great power and strength by God and for God but not fully aware of it and hardly scratching the surface as far as its use.

God has equipped us with strength, not just physically but across all aspects of our lives. Our charge is to recognize this as a fact and begin to realize it in our lives. What should overcome us when He that is in us has overcome the world?

by Katie Nolan, Lia Sophia Unit Manager

www.liasophia.com/katienolan

Visit us today at www.KBWomen.com

How to Manifest Your Prophecies

The first thing that we must come to terms with in order to see the prophetic manifest in our lives, is the fact that the will of God is not automatic. Many of us think that just because we received a Word from the Lord, that it will automatically come to pass. However, nothing in God’s will is automatic.

For example, it is God’s desire that all men be saved. However, we know that, unfortunately, when the end of the world comes, there will be those who did not get saved. We always have a part to play regarding God’s will. God needs our permission and our participation. With our example of salvation, we had to believe in our hearts and confess with our mouths that Jesus is the Son of God and that God raised him from the dead. We gave God permission by accepting his will of salvation and we participated in it by praying the Sinner’s Prayer. This brought salvation into manifestation in our lives.

The same is true with prophecy. It is not automatic. It comes to pass in our lives when we give God permission to move in our lives with regards to the prophecy and we participate by praying it into manifestation. In fact, prophetic Words are just like the written Word. When we find promises in the Bible that we want to see in our lives, we give God permission by asking him to bring it to pass in our lives and we participate by praying it into existence.Following are some pointers to manifest your prophecies.

And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
-Habakkuk 2:2-3

1. Write the prophecy down as best you remember. It will do you no good to just have a good feeling over what someone has spoken over you, but quickly forget what was said. This written account will be like the written Word. It will enable you to go back and remember what God promised to do in your life.

Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper. -II Chron. 20:20b

2. Believe the prophet and you will prosper. The difference between a false prophet and a true prophet is that a true prophet will speak in accordance with the Word of God. If their prophetic word is not born out by Scripture, it is not of God. Also, a true prophet will exalt God, not themselves. If their prophecy does not bring Glory to God, it is not of God. So, once this test is passed, believe what the prophet has shared with you. Believing precedes receiving.

And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, 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. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. -Mark 11:22-24

3. Take it by faith. In order to bring anything to pass in our lives, we must have the God kind of faith. We must see the situation as God sees it and believe it is already done in the natural realm, as it is already done in the spiritual realm. We must also speak it forth. We must speak to those mountains in our lives that contradict the prophecies, until those mountains disappear from our lives.

This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare. -I Tim. 1:18

4. Wage a good warfare. Finally, we must wage a good warfare. We have an adversary, the devil, and he does not want our prophecies to come to pass. He knows that he will be hurt by us once we are operating on the level of what was prophesied. So, he’s going to put up a fight. Fight back! You are on the Lord’s side and He’s on your side. In other words, the power to win is on your side! Take a stand. Resist the devil and he will flee from you! Don’t give up until your prophecies manifest!

Written by Min. Patricia D. Samuels, MA. Patricia is the founder of Patricia Samuels Ministries, Inc. and the International Association of Proverbs 31 Women. Visit her websites today and be blessed by something you view, read, or hear: http://www.patriciasamuels.org/ and http://www.iap31w.com/

Mindset & Marriage Finances

Is your Mindset keeping Marital Finances Strapped?

There are some wives that chose the position of money manager or Chief Financial Officer because they were aware of their husbands lack of money management skills. There are other wives who did not choose the position, yet someone had to do it and her husband was not volunteering for the job. Irregardless of how you got the position, being a Wife CFO means you are able to communicate, forecast, negotiate, save, spend, and plan ahead which all result in what is best for the family and marriage.

We've all heard, a mind is a terrible thing to waste, right? Are you sitting there reading this and thinking, I cannot afford this before you even know what the amount is? If you think AND speak you cannot afford something, you are right - you won't be able to. You just told your mind you can't, and your subconscious mind will work with you to deliver that which you concentrate on whether it is lack or abundance! Think about in these terms - if you tell a child he is bad and he thinks that he is, then that is the continued behavior you will see in front of you.

Did that information spark your interest? Or are you a wife that would like to save money but think it can't be done? Join Wife CFO.com today to get more thought provoking messages, encouragement and solutions such as the one above. Some of the wives in Wifecfo.com are currently participating in a Savings Challenge. Successfully meeting their goal at the end of the challenge will mean they will have saved $300. What would $300 (that does not belong to a credit card) mean to your family? As the creator of Wife CFO, my purpose is to help those wives that are struggling or have questions regarding marriage and money, provide resources and encourage them.

Understand http://www.wifecfo.com/ is a free and private membership site. It could just be the answer to a prayer or concern you have. Meet me at http://www.wifecfo.com/ and begin your path to financial freedom.

by Dr. Taffy Wagner, marriage money communication expert from www.WifeCFO.com

God is More Than Enough

My friend, Marny Swedberg, recently sent this to me via email, and I wanted to share it with you.

God is more than enough:

• He provides more than enough.
• He owns more than enough.
• He listens more than enough.
• He comforts more than enough.
• He loves us more than enough.
• And, He gives us more than enough time to do everything He created us to do.

Believe it!

Marnie
http://www.marnie.com/

posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com

Hello business women! I thought I would share a neworking/selling tip that my friend John Wheeler of www.BizNetCentral.com talked about recently:

When I used to oversee a sales force, I would teach them that the sales cycle had 4 steps:

1. Meet
2. Like
3. Trust
4. Do Business (get a referral or get paid)

Sending out a "Nice to Meet You," card is one great way to help speed the process of going from Meeting to Trusting.

Just another way to keep you top-of-mind in potential customers' minds, and show yourself as a considerate, friendly business person.

posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com

Billy Graham & Albert Einstein

In January 2000, leaders in Charlotte, North Carolina, invited their favorite son, Billy Graham, to a luncheon in his honor.

Billy initially hesitated to accept the invitation because he struggles with Parkinson's disease. But the Charlotte leaders said, 'We don't expect a major address. Just come and let us honor you.'

So he agreed.. After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham stepped to the rostrum, looked at the crowd, and said, "I'm reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who this month has been honored by Time magazine as the Man of the Century.

Einstein was once traveling from Princeton on a train when the conductor came down the aisle, punching the tickets of every passenger. When he came to Einstein, Einstein reached in his vest pocket. He couldn't find his ticket, so he reached in his trouser pockets. It wasn't there, so he looked in his briefcase but couldn't find it. Then he looked in the seat beside him. He still couldn't find it.

The conductor said, 'Dr. Einstein, I know who you are. We all know who you are. I'm sure you bought a ticket. Don't worry about it.' Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued down the aisle punching tickets. As he was ready to move to the next car, he turned around and saw the great physicist down on his hands and knees looking under his seat for his ticket.

The conductor rushed back and said, 'Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein, don't worry, I know who you are No problem. You don't need a ticket. I'm sure you bought one.' Einstein looked at him and said, 'Young man, I too, know who I am. What I don't know is where I'm going.' ''

Having said that Billy Graham continued, "See the suit I'm wearing? It's a brand new suit. My children, and my grandchildren are telling me I've gotten a little slovenly in my old age. I used to be a bit more fastidious. So I went out and bought a new suit for this luncheon and one more occasion.

You know what that occasion is? This is the suit in which I'll be buried. But when you hear I'm dead, I don't want you to immediately remember the suit I'm wearing. I want you to remember this:

I not only know who I am .. I also know where I'm going."

posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com

Powerful Prayer for You

My friend and author Inez Reilly sent this to me recently, and with her permission, I'd like to share it with you as well.

Most Gracious God, my Father - I come to You, today, giving You all the honor and glory due Your name. Sovereign ruler of all of the heavens and earth, You sit high and You look low, forever concerning Yourself with Your creation. You own the cattle on a thousand hills, and You have stored up riches and possessions for Your children to inherit, if we just believe.

I make Your name great in the earth. I will always declare Your awesome wonders to all who will listen. You intend to manifest Your blessings and favor upon Your people, Your chosen ones - the apple of Your eye - You have us engraved on the palms of both Your hands, never to leave or forsake us. Your mercy is from everlasting to everlasting, and Your grace encompasses us, like a robe. You have crowned us with Your loving kindness and encamped us round about with ministering angels, like flames of fire.

It is by Your command that the sun rises and sets - You declare when the tide rolls in and goes out. At Your word, the moon shines brilliantly upon the earth - You are magnificent! You are awesome! You are marvelous! Everything You do is for our good, and I thank You for it all.
I come to You, Elohim, on behalf of my sister. I declare that Your greatness is made manifest in her life. I decree that Your glory will surround her, like a cloud, being evident to those around her. The ministry, You have called her to, is blessed. You have fallowed out the ground, therefore as she walks she prospers and increases - You have brought increase to those she has been allowed to plant and to those she has been allowed to water. She is a fruitful garden, with leaves upturned in worship.

Bless her with longstanding endurance like the palm tree - allow her to flourish and be continually verdant, like the evergreen. Let her words be soft and filled with power and beauty, like the rose. Touch her, with your love, and cause her to bow her heart in adoration as her face shines with your grace. Cause her to allow your Spirit to search her heart, her mind and her spirit, turning over every area to you, in submission to your will for her life.

Speak to her, on her bed, at night - greet her with your Presence when she awakes, in the morning - walk with her in the cool of the evening. Woo her, Adonai! Draw her to yourself and hold her close, when she cries out to you. Be fierce in your protectiveness, causing her peace as she walks through any valley - she shall fear no evil, because you are with her - comfort her, console her, build her up in her most holy faith.

Come into her situations, circumstances and her immediate personal space, as she communes with you. Let your Spirit surround her, on all sides, infusing her with power, might, strength and security. She is NEVER alone. Speak to her heart, right now. Make clear your plans for her "right now" season. Still her heart, so she can hear your whispers of direction. Light her way, as she leads those you have called her to lead. Help her to submit to whom you have called to mentor and lead her.

She is your daughter and you are her Father - blow your wind upon her, right now, in the name of Jesus and pull her onto your lap. Allow her to lay her head upon your bosom, to quiet her spirit. Lull her into the sweet sleep that you have designed for your beloved, at night - Refresh and revive her for the day's journey, in the morning. She is healed, by the stripes of Jesus - any sickness or disease that tries to attach itself to her, is trespassing and has no right. She is free, because Jesus, your Truth, has made her free. The enemy has no power over her, her ministry, her family or her friends - his assignment is loosed from her life and bound with the shackles, from heaven.

She will walk, daily, in the Light and power of your Love. I pray this and believe it to be done, according to the power you have given to me - by the name of your Son, Jesus - it is so - AMEN!!!

Posted by Krista Dunk, prayer by Inez Reilly of www.IAMsproperty.com

Planning for Business Profitability

Here is a simple, straightforward article I found on planning for business profitability. I hope you find it useful:

Recently, ABC News Now interviewed me [see interview here] on my 5 Tips to Get Unstuck When Starting Your Own Business. One of my tips was about “working the numbers,” and I’ve received numerous requests to expand on this topic.

I meet many entrepreneurs passionate about creating businesses around their exciting ideas, which is great, but too often they forget to do a little math to ensure profitability. After all, if you’re not a hobby or a non-profit, you need to make a profit to sustain your business.
Don’t be afraid of the numbers because they can be really helpful in shaping your direction. Answering a few simple questions will help reveal the wisdom of your business idea, or uncover a flaw that you can rework to ensure success.

5 questions to ask yourself about your business idea:
1. What price can the market bear for your product or service?
2. What is your initial capacity to provide that product or service?
3. What are your costs associated with that capacity?
4. How many units of your product or hours of service can you realistically sell?
5. Do you have anything left over, profit, before taxes for paying yourself?

For fun, let’s take a business idea and run through the numbers for a month to see how it measures up. Let’s say that you love dogs, and have designed an adorable dog sweater that everyone loves and thinks you should sell.

1. Price: You think that you can sell the dog sweater for $40.
2. Capacity: You can knit one sweater a day times 20 work days in a month equaling 20 sweaters a month.
3. Costs: You know that each sweater costs you $10 in materials to make. So 20 sweaters = $200/month.
4. Sales: Assuming you will sell all the sweaters you make each month: $40 x 20 = $800
5. Profit: Subtract your costs ($200) from your sales ($800), and you have $600 in profit for a month.

This simple example shows you are profitable. But keep in mind that you will have other costs such as marketing, taxes, etc. So while this idea would not pay your mortgage yet, it’s a start. Your next steps would be considering ways to increase your profits.

First, let’s look at the income side of the equation. Ask yourself if you can increase the price. Perhaps you could focus on high-end doggie boutiques in wealthy neighborhoods or rich doggie catalogs. Another idea would be to explore how you can make more sweaters faster. Could you hire some low-cost contractors (maybe retired grandmothers looking for a little extra spending money?), or consider investing in a knitting machine to expand production?

On the flip side, look at your costs. Perhaps consider changing your business model altogether by selling the knitting pattern for your doggie sweater instead of the sweater itself. This lifts your limit on sales and you’re not held captive by your ability to crank out sweaters.

Get it? Work your numbers. By taking a little bit of time for planning and making sure that your business model is profitable, you’ll ensure that your business is a success!
© 2010 Ali International, LLC

Self-made multimillionaire entrepreneur and Inc. 500 CEO Ali Brown is devoted to creating financial freedom for women globally through the power of entrepreneurship. To learn how to create wealth and live an extraordinary life now, register for her free weekly articles at http://www.alibrown.com/.

Enjoy!
Posted by Krista Dunk
www.KBWomen.com

Marriage is a Gift

This past Sunday I was reminded of something that made my heart swell. And when I really got into the core of the inspiration, my floodgates simply burst open; Floodgates of joy, not sorrow. In fact, it was a the gift in the midst of the flood that inspired my heart, and I wanted to share it with you.

When my husband and I were married 8 years ago, our Pastor counseled us on the gift of marriage. He said that our marriage was just like the gift of our salvation. God designed our union as a precious gift only to be shared by the two of us. I remember how honored I felt at that moment, and then to have that as part of our vows, I was moved beyond words. God loved me so much, that not only did He send His Son for My sin; He sent my husband as an earthly token of His unfailing love for me too. That stirs my heart even today.

On Sunday, I was brought back to that place of gifting with a joyous reminder of God’s heart for both my husband and me - And for you! No matter where you are in your life right now, know that you have a gift in your Salvation and you can use it daily for encouragement, for support, as your pillar of strength, as the lover of your heart. That God wrapped up your gift with an exquisitely beautiful package must stir your soul too.

Remember, this gift of marriage is for everyone. Even if you are in a marriage right now and you feel that you are in a season of drought, think of what you have done to stay nourished and drought free in your walk with Jesus. Now apply those same steps to your marriage. “But Tammy, you just don’t know my husband he….” Woman, I don’t need to know your husband or your circumstances to know that God is bigger than all of it, and the gift He has for you is so sweet. He has given us the steps to walk out the gift of the marriage too. It’s up to us to take the steps and lean on Him for understanding.

Know this, when you have a desire for the gift of God, you are on a collision course for the blessing of God. Marriage is a gift, desire that gift and let the giver of the gift conduct your steps as a bride.

To know more of the promises of the gifts God has for you head to Isaiah 54: 11-14.

- by Tammy Redmon

www.KBWomen.com

www.TammyRedmon.com

How is 'someday' working for you?

Have you ever thought that you could be living a life of passion, using more of the talents God blessed you with?

Or maybe you don't fully know what those talents are because you have been too busy taking care of others.

If you have ever said, "Someday I will listen to my heart and follow it," if your amazing potential is just sitting there, waiting for 'someday,' this is for you.

Thursday (today), August 5th, at 4:30pm Pacific/7:30pm Eastern, listen in as KBWomen co-founder Tammy Redmon discusses the upcoming Living Your Vision retreat.

Simply call: 712-432-0075, code 133903# and listen in to this free, 30-min telecall.

www.KBWomen.com/lyv.htm

Business Women: Walking Through the Fear

My husband, Scott and I took our boys to Silverwood Theme Park this last week. The boys raced for the Tremors roller coaster as my husband, Scott, drug his feet towards the winding line. By the way...Tremor’s is an old wooden coaster that drops over one hundred feet at 65 mph into a pitch black underground tunnel.

Our oldest son was screaming back, “Dad. Hurry up. Let’s get on this one.”

Scott walked even slower.

I said, “What is it? Are you scared of roller coaster’s? Why the slow pace? The boys are waiting.”

Scott said, “Yes! I am scared. The boys aren’t scared because they don’t know we are going to die. I do!”

I laughed and pushed Scott towards the ever growing line. Reluctantly he went on the ride. As he hopped off the ride (still alive), he realized it wasn’t so bad. Actually, he wanted to try it again. By the end of our vacation he was in the front car of the coaster riding with his hands fully extended in the air. I believe you could see his smile from space. It was a true transformation.

As we road on Tremors, for the 4th time, I thought about the correlation between roller coasters and small business ownership. I thought about the fear in Scott’s eyes when he went on that ride and the sheer joy when he got off the last time.

Owning a business is a pretty scary ride. There are many times when fear can take over a small business owner. There are ups and downs like a roller coaster. Sometimes we may want to jump off. But faith keeps us going. We know as we drop a hundred feet straight down or go 65 mph into the pitch black, we will get through it.

It is our faith that leads us. It is our faith that guides us down the path to sheer joy; A joy we can only receive, walking through the fear.

Fear knocked at the door. Faith answered. And lo, no one was there. ~Author Unknown

-by Diana Kohn

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Diana Kohn is a member of Koinonia Business Women. She is the co-founder of FLAIR. You can reach her at 206-353-1003 or visit FLAIR's site at http://www.businesswithflair.com/ .

Business Networking Tips

Business Networking is a vital sales tool for entrepreneurs and small businesses. I’ve seen a lot of great advice given over the years – but very few people touch on what I have found to be the most important skill of all. Most networking advice focuses on what to say – how to position yourself, and how to develop your elevator pitch.

Most networkers rush into talking about themselves, and the services and/or products their business offers. However, networking is a long term game – and the initial meeting is just the beginning. Do not rush to blurt out all the details of your services. But be the first to ask “what do you do?” and focus on the other person. This gives you 5 advantages:

1. You can discover whether the other person is a potential customer or a potential referrer for you – and adjust your “elevator speech” accordingly.

2. You can see how to best pitch your services to hit the right "hot buttons" for them.

3. If you offer multiple services you can identify which service is the most appropriate for them and focus on a powerful specific message for that –particular service, rather than using a generic "catch all."

4. By listening to the way they communicate and the language they use, you can identify the best way to communicate with them in a compelling manner.

5. You can pick up specific areas where you can help people to connect them too or direct them to resources. By adding value for them before you’ve even talked about yourself you’ll make a tremendous impression.

-by Karmen A. Booker

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Karmen A. Booker is an Attorney, Business Consultant and Chief Consultant for Compu-Perfect Professional Services, a business consulting firm specializing in business incorporation, establishing limited liability companies, contract drafting & reviewing, and more.

CALL ATTORNEY BOOKER at (301) 408-1082. View her website at http://www.compuperfect.net/

She is also the author of “Business Tips” Report where you will discover tips that will put you on the Road to Business Success, Tips for creating and implementing a marketing plan, and more. This report and other books she has authored are available for online purchase at http://www.kbooker.wordpress.com/ by clicking on the respective report and book covers on the right sidebar of her blog site.

Creating Business Videos - Starring You!

Would you like to create video clips for your website or blog? Maybe have your own online TV channel? Last month when I went to Philadelphia for an author's conference, I met several people who wanted more information about how to make their own videos. I explained my process, and thought you might find it helpful too.

In 2010, I've started creating video clips, and to be quite honest...I'd rather talk to live people! But, with practice, my video recordings are improving bit-by-bit. Before I started creating videos, practicing with audio recordings was my first step. By the way, I use http://www.freeconferencing.com/ as my audio recording service. It's free, and recordings can be easily shared and downloaded as needed.

If you are ready for video, here are the steps I use so you can see the whole process:

1. Purchase a Flip-Video camcorder. Small and easy to use, they plug right into your computer to directly download your video clips. Software is included with each camera! Cost - $100-200. Note - Some laptops already have built-in webcams you could use to record!


2. Write an outline or script of what you'd like to say. Whether you prefer a more spontaneous style, or scripted, this will help keep you on track. Note - Glance at notes occasionally, rather than reading from them.


3. Set yourself up in a well lit area, and do test shots. Adjust the camera's placement as needed so you are centered and well lit. Note - Eliminate background noise.


4. Record your message several times.


5. Download the videos onto your computer and pick your favorite. Edit as needed using the software that is included. You can easily crop off unnecessary portions of the beginning and end of the clips.


6. Create a YouTube channel for free at www.YouTube.com, and upload videos to your channel. Note - Uploaded videos can't be more than 10 minutes long. Click here to visit KBWomen's YouTube channel.


7. Embed the video code into a blog or website, and/or share the video with others via email. Done!

Think about what questions your audience/clients/prospects have right now. Could you answer them in video? Could you record a short video (or audio) welcome message? Do you have a series of teachings or trainings you could introduce with video? Video is a great way for people to feel more personally connected with you.

Feeling nervous about it? Don't worry - so did I at first. If I can do it, I know you can too. Think of it as a great way to develop a new skill, and practice your presentation skills at the same time. Let a trusted friend view them and give you feedback along the way. You're going to be great!

Posted by Krista Dunk, http://www.kbwomen.com/

"Pray It Forward" Challenge

"Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." -Mark 11:24

Thank you Jesus that we have direct access to the Father through prayer. It's one of our most powerful tools within the Kingdom of God. At my church, one of our associate pastors recently made this statement, "Sow where you want to go." Our main pastor added another twist by saying, "Sow where you want to grow." Today I offer a challenge to each of us; a challenge to "Pray It Forward."

Think about what you need in your business or ministry right now. Is it wisdom? More sales? Clarity of ideas? A mentor? A specific opportunity to open up? Someone to partner with you? A new skill? New clients? A sense of purpose? Whatever it is, pray it forward.

Let me explain...Don't wait until something good comes your way to pay it forward, as we've seen in movies, PRAY it forward, sow it now! Sow prayer into someone else's life and business for what you need. Bless them in the area in which you need a blessing from God. By doing this, you are sowing into others, and others can sow into you.

Here is what you can do:
- Define your need.
- Pick 2 business women of faith.
- Send them a prayer note - specifically about what you need, but praying it for them.

This is a perfect opportunity for you to set up a profile at KBWA (if you haven't already). We offer a free "intro member" level, and there you can easily select 2 women to pray for and send them a note. Or, maybe you already have 2 people in your network or church in mind. Either way, please consider taking our Pray It Forward challenge this month.

I'd love to hear feedback from you on this, and how it has impacted lives! I am picking my 2 ladies to pray it forward to now...

Posted by Krista Dunk, www.KBWomen.com

Starting Your Own Business

Starting Your Own Business, by Diana Kohn

Do you ever feel God is tapping you on the shoulder? Maybe He is pushing you in a direction you are scared to go. Eventually He starts to yell out to you.

He is calling you, do you hear Him?

It can be scary to follow the path He has laid out for you. It can be especially scary when it involves starting a business.

How do you start? Where do you start? Is there anyone to help you?
As a business owner myself I understand the mixed feelings of starting a business. It’s scary and exciting. It’s daunting and thrilling. Its great risk, yet possibly great reward. If you enter a new business with the right intentions, with the heart to help, and following God's plan the odds are in your favor.

How do you start? Make a list. Below are some of the things you may need to add to your list. List out each task you need to start your business. Each day knock one or two things from your list. As you cross things from the list new items will be added. Before you know it all your items are checked off and you are a business owner.

· Get a business license
· Get business cards
· Join a networking group
· Set up your accounting

Where do you start? Start with organization’s like Koinonia Business Women. The whole purpose of an organization like KBWomen is to help you. This group was designed to help educate women. They are here to promote you. Take advantage of all the information they have to offer.

Is there anyone to help you? There are many professionals that have owned businesses for many years. The information they have is priceless. Our business FLAIR was designed to help business owners develop the tools they need to grow. We are here to support you and your business. We will enhance the skills you already have, to help build your business. From walking into your first networking meeting to making the final sales, FLAIR will be there with you.
FLAIR will help you with:

· Networking with FLAIR
· Branding with FLAIR
· Sales with FLAIR

Education and support are key to the success of your new venture. Sit down. Make your list. Get ready to start your journey. If you are following the right path, the doors will open and the customers will walk in.

Article by Diana Kohn. Diana Kohn is a member of Koinonia Business Women. She is the co-founder of FLAIR. You can reach her at 206-353-1003 or http://www.businesswithflair.com/

I Need You Here God

One of my favorite songs, with an awesome message of faith. Take a moment and listen:


When I listen to this song's lyrics, specifically these two phrases, "I need You here, I need You here," and "I only want to be where You are," something interesting comes up for me.

At times in our lives, we need to cry to God and say, "I need You here! I'm in a mess, in this situation I need You to intervene Lord, save me from this problem, help Father," etc. On the flip side, when we can express to Him that, "I only want to be where You are," it may save us from a few of the other "save me" cries and situations.

Let me explain what I mean by that..."God, I only want to be where You are." For me, this statement goes beyond finding comfort and safety in His presence. Think about this: In your life, where is He? Which relationships and connections is He "in?" Which business ideas and plans is He in? Which organizations that you can partner with, join or support is He in? Which church is filled with His Spirit? What words that come out of your mouth is He in? What actions that you take is He in? What vision for your future has He given you?

When I pre-ask Him where He is, this helps me make better decisions in life. I don't know about you, but I only want to be where He is. Father, take me to the places, people and plans where You are.

The ABCDE Method for Setting Your Priorities

Here is some great information that hopefully you find as helpful as I did. Thank you to Rich Whitaker of www.tannorthwest.com for sharing this with me.

The ABCDE Method for Priorities
The process of setting short-term priorities begins with a pad of paper and a pen. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by too many things to do and too little time in which to do them, sit down, take a deep breath, and list all those tasks you need to accomplish. Although there is never enough time to do everything, there is always enough time to do the most important things, and to stay with them until they are done right.

Setting Better Priorities
The best method for setting priorities on your list, once you have determined your major goals or objectives, is the A-B-C-D-E method. You place one of those letters in the margin before each of the tasks on your list before you begin.

"A" stands for "very important;" something you must do. There can be serious negative consequences if you don't do it.

"B" stands for "important;" something you should do. This is not as important as your 'A' tasks. There are only minor negative consequences if it is not completed.

"C" stands for things that are "nice to do;" but which are not as important as 'A' or 'B,' tasks. There are no negative consequences for not completing it.

"D" stands for "delegate." You can assign this task to someone else who can do the job instead of you.

"E" stands for "eliminate, whenever possible." You should eliminate every single activity you possibly can, to free up your time.

When you use the A-B-C-D-E method, you can very easily sort out what is important and unimportant. This then will focus your time and attention on those items on your list that are most essential for you to do.

Just Say No
Once you can clearly determine the one or two things that you should be doing, above all others, just say no to all diversions and distractions and focus single-mindedly on accomplishing those priorities.

Much stress that you experience in your work life comes from working on low-priority tasks. The amazing discovery is that as soon as you start working on your highest-value activity, all your stress disappears. You feel a continuous stream of energy and enthusiasm. As you work toward the completion of something that is really important, you feel an increased sense of personal value and inner satisfaction. You experience a sensation of self-mastery and self-control. You feel calm, confident and capable.

Next Steps:
Here are three ideas that you can use, every day, to help you set priorities and to keep you working at your best:

First, take the time to be clear about your goals and objectives so that the priorities you set are moving you in the direction of something that is of real value to you.

Second, remember that what counts is not the amount of time that you put in overall; rather, it's the amount of time that you spend working on high-priority tasks.

Third, understand that the most important factor in setting priorities is your ability to make wise choices. You are always free to choose to engage in one activity or another.

The Temptation of Titles

Then Moses said to God, “Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they say to me, ‘What is His name?’ what shall I say to them?” And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”" -Exodus 3:13-14

Today, I'd like to share an interesting thought with you. In the verse above, Moses was asking about credibility with his question. "They'll be looking for credibility God; what shall I tell them?" I AM. That is an amazingly profound, yet simple and humble title for the Creator of the universe.

Think about Jesus too. He rebuked unclean spirits which tried to announce and proclaim His deity while He was ministering. Even His birth happened in relative obscurity. While contemplating these things, I am learning an important lesson; Titles are a "people thing," not a "God thing." The Lord gives no value to titles.

The temptation for us is to strive for titles and then wield them for our own use in various ways; to acquire accreditations to please people; dare I say it, even to exalt ourselves. At times, that is even true within churches and ministry organizations where titles and positions are coveted. With Jesus as our example for living, I've had to learn the hard lesson that titles are tempting in the world, but irrelevant to God. Jesus says those who want to be the greatest in the Kingdom ought to be the greatest servants. We should be "known" by our fruit.

In the business world, titles, positions, education levels, accreditations, and certifications seem to be thrown around like socks. In fact, most of the time it feels like a necessity to flash them to get "in" with people, or to get where we want to go. Don't get me wrong; education is valuable and positions with powerful titles are a reality in our world. However, none of these things make us a "somebody." God would say, "You've always been a somebody. Even before you were born and I was knitting you together in your mother's womb you were a somebody. I qualify you. I am not a respecter of persons. I show Myself strong through you. Wisdom is known by her children."

When I asked God recently about what I thought were His many titles, e.g. Prince of Peace, Counselor, Healer, Sovereign Lord, etc., He said, "No. Those describe My character." Wow, Father, teach me to see others through Your eyes, and to put on the tremendously humble spirit that You have! Make me more like You!

How Would You Introduce Christ?

Watch this fabulous, inspiring clip by Steve Harvey, where he practices introducing Jesus Christ to an audience at one of his large comedy events.


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