Wes Morgan - I Choose To Worship

The Road to the Retreat... Beauty for Ashes IWM's Women's Retreat: "There is Beauty Beyond Pain Retreat.. ..

Saturday May 22, 2010 was a monumental moment for Beauty for Ashes IWM. The 1rst retreat of many was held in Houston, Texas.
Yes, "There is Beauty Beyond Your Pain" Women's Retreat was a definite "WOW God!" moment.
The Scripture in IS 61 took flight.. there was present the broken, the wounded and even those that were whole but ready to elevate in the Anointing of God.

The days before the retreat were spent in prayer and fasting before God. There were women around the globe expecting a great move in the retreat. It occurred like a flood!
The enemy should have just be wearied and ready to get back because there were pray warriors on every turn.. We pressed in and laid on the altar before God..ready to serve His people.

There was unity and the love of Christ amongst the appointed workers for the retreat..we flowed on one accord.. God honored it..He really did. The laughter in the midst was priceless..We always have some joy in the house at BFA! :)

Husbands were supportive all worked diligently and in unison! Wow again!!

There was fellowship from Elim ministry in Houston,TX.. Joe and Marissa- if your reading I love you so.. thank you is an understatement.
Both Joe and Marissa worked side by side from the onset of the retreat until we left the building. Thanks Lord!! for faithful kingdom builders.

The dancers worked diligently and faithfully to prepare for worshipping God through dance. Countless rehearsing, sacrificing of time.. Thanks Ladies.. You beheld the fruit..

The praise and Worship leader prepared to usher us into the Throne Room.. She had a voice of an angel.. Yolks were going to be broken for sure

The cook what can I say.. but Bon Appetite! She prepared the menu worked the plan and it was go from there.

The prayer team of intercessors went to the grounds to pray rain didn't stop us.. we pressed.. Those grounds were Holy!

The instructors prepared their lessons yielding to the voice of God and obeying.. Wisdom is priceless

The vendors had their awesome works prepared and ready to go! Way to go..God does give us creative ideas to gain wealth.

The administrative staff worked hard to create a beautiful agenda, postcards and gift bags..Creativity is no stranger to the folks at Beauty for Ashes IWM!!

The decoration team worked to set a table fit for a queen.. see the pics! We are God's best.. nothing less would do!

Let's not forget..Mr. Joe of Pressing Promos that was able to create the beautiful t-shirts in a crunch for time.. and even 7:00 am coffee!! Thanks Mr. Joe!!!

The true blessing is this all the long hours of leg work and outpouring was done by under 15 women!!! What a testimony of God's supernatural favor, and how He can empower us through the Holy Ghost!!

My friends it rings so true that We can do all things through Christ which Strengthens Us... Philippians 4:13

Still saying WOW God!!! See my next blog...

January is National Mentor Month.. A Tribute to My Mentor

January 21rst is “Tell Your Mentor Thank You Day”!
Well my mentor has passed on to glory. However, a public thank you is befitting...
I had the fortunate experience of being mentored by my own mother. My mother spent countless hours of time encouraging, instilling and motivating me to go beyond the norm. I was taught the value of a good education and how to apply the learned material. My mother instilled and helped to develop leadership skills necessary for my future. She challenged me to expand my thinking beyond average and strive for the best. I learned that life though it holds many turns can be lived to the fullest. my mother worked with children from less fortunate families by tutoring them, exposing them to cultural activities etc. She believed in charity and goodwill and lived her life accordingly.
Thanks Mom for your hard work and great example!

Leaving the Land of "This and That" and Going To A Place Called "Focused"

The past few months have been a time of serious growth for me. I have been in a place that was not familiar to me at all. This place if named would be "This and That". What a funny name you say.. What exactly does that mean? It was some stuff uprooted and some was planted by God himself.
Biblically it would be likened unto the Wilderness experience that the children of Israel had to go through prior to the Promised Land. However, I did want to prolong my ordained time in this place.
I called it ,”This and That” because it seemed like stuff was scattered in the wind like leaves. I found myself baffled..whoahh how did I land here? “This and That” seemed like a bunch of loose ends. It was uncomfortable for me..I liked having it all together you know! Oh but this place was not governed by me at all.. No, I was led there by the divine handiwork and planning of The Sovereign Lord,God himself.
My conversations with God definitely entailed detailed questions. The funny thing was that God really did not seem to speak to my inquisitive nature but to the future path I was being prepared for. He spoke and commanded self examination. The reigns of my heart were tested like King David. I found myself encountering issues that required total trust. Yes, I learned how to have total trust in God. Oh Lord, I whined I want to get out of this place. It's uncomfortable and sometimes lonely here.
Like a child I really wanted God to be moved by my whining and pouting. That Didn’t work though..I had to pass this way..through "This and That”. I literally exhausted myself with trying to make change happen.
Then one day..God revealed Himself in only the way he could. He showed me that this place was ordained. I realized all the while.. I was growing up in Him yet again.
Often times we mistakenly think that we reach a plateau in Christ and thereby are unaware that our spiritual growth is ongoing!
God began the uprooting in “This and That”..He instructed there. He breathed fresh oil daily because yesterday's was all gone. I had my daily bread nothing more and nothing less. My wants seemed out of reach. My solutions and I stress my solutions..were hopeless and fruitless. Arghh, I sighed, “What’s a girl to do in this place!!!!!?
Now, as God commands, I'm headed spiritually to the place I've been being prepared for all along. It's called, “Focused". Even though, it seemed really fuzzy getting there..I was heading somewhere!
This place is where the Ministry that God has ordained for me comes to the forefront. Not for others to be impressed or wooed. No, this is solely for God's kingdom to be built. It is here that only the people that God ordained to be connected can remain in an active role. The blessing on my life, the covenant with God is fulfilled on my part now. Yes, it's a mature place in Him. Thanks Lord!
Focused is the place where I am a doer of the Word, however only upon the clear instructions of God. It's a place where the provision I tried to create will now just overtake me.
Yes, it’s a mind blowing place. Focused for me is the place I've desired to be in God for a long time. The place that bears fruit from the pruned spirit I now possess.
The past seasons of unforgiveness and bitterness have been deemed null and void...No longer active.
God is His infinite Wisdom knew that I had to travel through my “This and That” to let go of baggage and weight. Now, my growth still goes on but with principles of the Word in place. God does perfect the things that concern me!
Focused is the place God desires for us all. The place where only He can get the Glory for all that will manifest. He works miracles through us and for us in that submissive place. Others benefit from the full manifestation of our matured Spiritual gifts. What a beautiful concept.
I'm loving this place already...Why? because God's love for me led me right here. His timing is not like mine. I knew that 2010 was approaching so I thought,"Oh wow! I'm going to get the promises in 2010.
However, the Most High God informed me as I exited my wilderness - It was not a calendar date but a divine timing... and guess what, “It’s NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!
Truly Yours in Christ,
Pastor Valencia Luckett

Okay.. The gifts and outpouring are still coming...

Oh my goodness! I blogged earlier about the manifestation of blessings and now there's more. My friend Zeeda surprised me with a visit (in the storming rain. She dropped by to bring me gifts and a cake for my birthday. Her mom and two daughters visited also. It was so nice and thoughtful. I'm getting teary eyed just thinking about her genuine friendship. She did not come once but twice and brought yet another gift with her!!
My hubby has been a jewel he did the laundry, tended to the children and cooked a fantastic meal. I enjoyed a day of rest and relaxation. Thanks Honey!

My older sister and my daughter along with Grammy's baby boy (D'Anthony) dropped by tonight. They came bearing cupcakes, ice cream and gifts as well.

God I truly thank you. This has been an awesome day. I have had over 7 Happy Birthday serenades, 2 cakes, numerous gifts and an open display of love from family and friends.

I missed my parents today but yet I celebrated because I know they are in my cloud of witnesses cheering me on in this race.

Well I'm off to bed- It's been an overtaking kind of week.

Good night,
Pastor Valencia
God's Girl

The Road to My 40th Birthday- Oh! It's a New Thing for Sure

Okay God this is mind blowing just rethinking over this week.
I left off at Sunday which by the way the Sunday dinner was scrumptious and delicious. Scrumplicious perhaps!

Monday::
I went on an all expense paid trip to New Orleans. My 91 year old great aunt passed away the previous week. I was very close to her and wanted badly to be there for her children and our other family members. I remember sobbing to God and asking for a door to open. Well.. it did. I was able to pay my final respects, start closure and also celebrate a life well lived. My family was able to meet my grandchild for the first time. We ate so much we popped. Seafood, Creole cuisine, Homemade deserts, even birthday cake! Oh and I cannot forget my uncle's secret barbecue recipe put in full effect. My children from the youngest to the oldest had a blast. I had no expenses yet the red carpet was rolled out.
Oh it does not stop there...

Tuesday: : My friends Pastor Manuel Mukes and Pastor Tanika Mukes were used by God to bless my socks off - literally. Visit the couple @ http://www.myspace.com/tmukes
For almost two years I had a desire of my heart. This desire was delayed but not denied. When I had funds I chose to wait patiently if the funds were allotted for a need. But God. when He does a thing it's seems like the wait was for a moment. The Mukes blessed me with a brand new, fully loaded Laptop /it's black and shiny, has a web cam, awesome graphics, litescribe- I can make professional DVDs.. I cried, I danced before the Lord on the spot, I hi-fived God . I was speechless. The blessings of God overtook me. I publicly speak blessings back into their lives. This laptop will be key to my ministerial duties. Can't go around the globe by plane on a desktop. I'm still smiling and praising Him.

Wednesday: I started working out with Zeeda. We walked, we laughed, we ministered to one another. God your awesome. I love being in ministry full time. You've blessed me to be around genuine Women of God that desire to be in Your presence.

Thursday: Worked out again, did a good workout- even worked up a sweat. God spoke so profoundly it blessed my soul. Got to cuddle with my hubby- thanks God for his Prophetic gifting. It's a blessing to the Body of Christ. Had a wonderful conversation with my Mother-In Law. We laughed about a lot. My sister hinted at giving me her older Mercedes.. oh! whew He is really overtaking me.

Friday My friend Keita sponsored a catering dinner at her home. She cooked this delicious food and people put orders in for the plates. Her deserts included Turtle brownies, Chocolate cake etc. The food was divine. She blessed me with a gift plate and a brownie. God just does not stop. True prophecy is key.

Today, Saturday: Informed that I have a big throwdown 40th party in the making. I cannot wait. But most of all the biggest blessing today is that I know Him, He knows me and together we are one. At 40 it is awesome to recognize and adhere to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. It is awesome to recieve the reward of total obedience.
God is faithful to his children. Lord thank you for the gift of birth- new birth in the Spirit. Watch out devil- the Anointing in me has been unleashed>>>>
My God has sent the latter day rain and I'm in the midst of the out pour.
Oh! Abba thank you! This day would be nothing without Your loving kindness. The beauty is that our relationship was established before the manifestations. I loved you in my night seasons, in my teary moments, my losses. You've carried me in Your arms and because of it- I can truly celebrate this moment.
Shalom
Pastor V
God's Girl

Wow! What a Week... the Road to my 40th Birthday

I'm so excited about this past week- It was an absolutely awesome week. Today is my birthday but the blessings of God have been overtaking me. It's no wonder it's raining in the natural here in Houston, Texas. Cuz it's raining in my life- the overflow has begun no trickle, no drizzle- rivers of living water are flowing from my belly.
It started the Friday before last at the Demon Crusherz Meeting (held every 2nd Friday- awesome Women's fellowship and ministry) See my sidebar for location information. I preached a message entitled "Unleashed". God is ready to pour out His anointing- no drips, no drizzle- outpour. He's ready for worshippers to worship in Spirit and truth. He's ready to unleash in our prayers as prayer warriors. But he needs the vessel. This message was a rhema word in season. Before the meeting ending an awesome friend and Woman of God, Zeeda prayed for me. She spoke under the authority of the Anointing into my life. It was confirming and exhorting. She spoke that God was in fact releasing and unleashing things and events in my personal life and ministry. Less than 24 hours the Word of God went into effect.
(check her out at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bound4gloryrecordsinc )
Saturday- blessings were overtaking me. On a shopping trip I got too many discounts to list. I saved oodles of dollars. Later that evening we were blessed with software to start our home recording studio. Oh my God -and I mean that literally He is my God.

Sunday my daughter came to church! Oh Lord you are faithful. Prodigals do return home to you. God is so awesome.
Please read the next entry for more - it's so much only God could have done this!

Knowing your Purpose puts your Pain in Perspective

9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, [c] saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request.

I read the two scripture verses above and received a profound revelation about purpose and pain. Jabez was named as a memorial to his mother's pain. She had to look at him daily and call his name. I'm sure she would wince at the thought of the pain. However, the Word says he was more honorable than his siblings. So I'm sure that even though his birth caused pain this erased it for his mother. She had to smile with pride to see the hand of God on her son's life. She had to say he was worth the struggle of child birth.

In regards to the ministry God has given me I can relate. I have experienced painful incidents in my life. Oh! there is a list: sexual abuse, domestic violence, divorce, rejection, competitive jealousy, backbiting and on and on. This was true pain. It was unbearable at times. However, in the midst I was called preach the Gospel. God had need of me for His Glory. He revealed my purpose in the midst of the pain. Yes, it's true He healed me. However, the reminder of the pain did not leave. Why? Because it was my testament to the awesomeness of God. My testament that all things worked together for my good because I'm called according to His purpose. Now I know I'm called to be Prophet, a Pastor, an Evangelist and a Teacher the pain makes sense. I do not glory in experiencing the pain, but I give God the glory for how he used it to birth Beauty for Ashes International Women's Ministry. I give him the glory for how my pain did not destroy me; but because of it I got to know God as my Abba, my friend that stuck closer than a brother. To the readers of this blog entry allow God to call you out of your pain. He will propel you into your purpose.
Jabez cried out to God to remove the pain he carried. The key thing is he cried out! He looked outside of his pain and keyed into his purpose. I agree that there is a higher place that you get in God. It is where you say this pain will no longer fester like an infection. You get determined to step into your healed place, your God give purposed place. It is there that ministries are birth, visions come to pass, relationships with God matures, and others are helped to see their purpose.
I urge all those who have suffered painstaking moments or seasons in life- Cry out to the Living God to embrace your purpose. There's someone that needs to know that despite the pain the purpose God has for them is greater.
My prayer is that you allow God to reach into your painful place and place you directly into your purposed path
Shalom
Pastor Valencia

The Power of Agreement is Awesome

Oh my goodness, Houston, Texas lookout! My good friend Pastor Lisa (her blog is "I'm in Another Place In Him") have been touching in agreeing in prayer as led by the Holy Spirit. It started out with the two of us... now on yesterday we had other sisters in Christ with us in agreement. Beauty For Ashes International Women's Ministry, Bound for Glory Ministry, Demon Crusherz Women's Ministry, , Family of Love Christian Center and Zion Tabernacle Christian Church all of (Houston, Texas) were touching the Throne. The power of agreement is truly awesome. We prayed, we wept, we encountered the Father. God is so awesome, he speaks in Worship and beckons you in to the throne room. He desires for us to enter into His presence. There you can truly delight yourself in Him. As a result, our lives have changed, our faith is growing and be exercised outside of the box. We believed that God operates in the miraculous! He is the Living God. He spoke, He moved by His power, we were on one accord and it manifested in that place. The Glory of the Lord filled the house. We left knowing that our prayers were answered. Loved ones are saved,people are healed and made whole, the blind will see, the deaf shall hear. Oh my goodness God is on the move in our lives. We are not coming out of the gap,we have some sister friends that are lined up in agreement. What a wonderful thing.
We are meeting on Tuesday mornings at 10:45 am. If there are any readers out there that have prayer request please email them to: beautyforashesiwm@gmail.com
If you are interested in attending you are more than welcome. Remember the Word of God says in Matthew 18 vs 19 states: Again I say unto you, That if any two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father in Heaven.
Shalom,
Pastor Valencia Luckett
Beauty For Ashes International Women's Ministry

I'm Living the God kind of Life-putting the drama in check!

God wants His people to experience life's finest. That is not just limited to cars, cash and property. There is an area that all to often we as women tuck away. Yes we tuck it- we learn to fake it, we smile when we really feel like crying or screaming. We laugh and pray that others don't look deep into our eyes and see hurt. Oh! It's time for the madness to stop.

God has another level for His daughters. It's a place of peace, a place where His love reigns and overtakes us. In this place you find yourself releasing those that wronged you or violated your body. It's not magic to getting in this place. No wonder pill.. simply learning to worship Him in Spirit and in Truth... Spilling it out no holding back- removing the mask of pain. It's there where you transform, it's there where your needs are met. It's there when your natural meets his super. Yes, worship will take you there..

So when the drama comes or it seems to linger.. Speak to it in the Anointing and tell it it has no residency in your life. began worship the Father, sit with Him and listen to His voice, read the Word. Lastly, apply it to your daily living.

Oh and Sister's don't forget to keep your swagger- do your girly time- have lunch, laugh, smile because you're living the God Kind of life!!!

Check out more at http://www.myspace.com/beauty4ashesiwm

Shalom (Peace)

Pastor Valencia B. Luckett

Beauty For Ashes International Women's Ministry

Post Office Box 940806

Houston, Texas 77094-7806

Now that's what a miracle looks like!

Wow! 2008 was filled with the fulfillment of the promises of God. My grandson, D'Anthony Allen Young was born on November 1, 2008. He's an angel sent from Heaven. Calm spirited yet firm when it's feeding time! Several moments flashed through my heart the first time I held him. I remembered the painstaking moment that my husband, my daughter and myself learned she would become a parent. It hurt, it was discomforting- not my baby, Lord I cried bitterly. I wept many days and some nights I laid awake worrying that the my little girl (though she was 18) was not ready for this level in life. I remember feeling like I wanted yell and kick the anger out of my heart. This was not the plan we discussed, not a path we were to walk. The pregnancy was challenging, my daughter experienced preterm labor, constant morning sickness, she was weak and feeble, frightened by the changes in her body and mind. This hurt as a mother,I did what I knew to do. This was a spiritual journey, not a time to wallow in the fleshy places. So I would like to share this with someone who maybe experiencing this situation
1. I reminded her of the unconditional love of God. I along with my husband worked to dispel a spirit of condemnation.
2. We showed the love of Christ, self had to get out of the way. After all, we were preparing to receive a miracle not a mess! A prophet was coming to our house! How blessed are we.
3. I embraced and began to operate in what I call the ministry of presence. I made myself available for concerns she had, fears, questions, tears and of course Ultrasounds- he was a cutie even in the womb. I taught, shared and walked by my baby girl's side assuring her that God was with her and would never leave her.
4. Prayer and open communication with the Father when the emotional pain struck- and it did. I had Godly friends that ministered to us and helped us through.
5. I remembered that God was in a Covenant relationship with not only me but my seed and my seed's seed. So D'Anthony's life was covered before he was formed in his mother's womb- God is awesome
6. We just outright loved on her- pedicures, lunch with my sister and I, nursery decorating etc..
7. We did not condone the act but refused to bring condemnation to mother or child. There was no way the devil was going to develop a pattern of low self esteem/worth in this girl's life.
8.The foundation was set, I not only confessed the Word in her life- I introduced her to the Word. Although, she may have strayed there has to be a return to the Word in this lifetime. God is faithful, His Word is set and through Christ it was fulfilled- so who am I to believe otherwise!
Now as I hold my littlest angel in the house- I smile and am reminded of the Father's love, protection and miracle working power. God kept him in the womb, he's a cuddle bear, loves to coo, laugh and smile.
He is a daily reminder that God gives Beauty for Ashes.
So publicly to my grandson I say,"I love you D'Anthony you have added to my life in a way only God could orchestrate".
Love, Nana

A NEW DIRECTION ORCHESTRATED BY GOD HIMSELF

It has been a long time since I've blogged. So much has transpired in my life. These events have not been things that I'm familiar with or even skilled in. I had no mastery in these areas. It has been totally unfamiliar territory for this kid.
I’ve been in the position likened unto that of a swaddled newborn totally dependant on God as my Lord. Whew! It has been a long process to arrive at that wonderful place. If I would have known it was such a wonderful place my fears and holdbacks would have been put in check.
It is true that I have had a personal relationship with God for quite some time; but this year the relationship took a turn for the better. It was like a dancing with stars move:
I stepped into my place, got out of God's way and am gliding to my destiny.
Recently, God has expressed His desire for me to return home- you see I went MIA into a little place called the “Rat race or the workforce”. God shared that its’ now time for me to do this His way. He did ask, “Valencia, would you like to try my plan? - Your plan is not really working that well. He is ever the gentleman!
Yes, I’m headed out of the rat race I ran for 19 years - the workforce. True, this is personal and not God’s plan for every woman’s life. But this girl has a different assignment! Now to some people it might not seem like such a major step. But for me it’s MAJOR! My job was my security as a frightened divorcee with a 3 year old little girl to raise alone. It was an avenue when my dear hubby was severely injured and couldn’t work. It was my chance to work with abused children, build better families. I’m like Isaiah, this king Uzziah is dead. I see the glory of the LORD and its’ filling my temple.
I've embraced the fact that I need to totally trust God. I’m also realizing that God’s plan for me is unique and that we all really do have to abide where we are called. Some are assigned to that area others to another. We are not clones but God’s exquisite creations.
Now that God has set His plan in motion. I'm gearing up for change.
I pondered today on this journey I've traveled. It's been rough, rocky, sometime unfamiliar but for my good. The tears, the laughter, the utter confusion at times, the 11:59 faith confessions have all been blended together like a cake. God was pulling to this place, he was ushering me into my next level
The fulltime ministry that is being birth in me is nearing... I know it just as sure as I know my name.
As I discovered in my quiet hours with God this new direction is like a masterpiece being unveiled. It’s exquisite. It’s divinely orchestrated by a Master builder.
I am so excited about a new direction for several reasons:
First, it's an awesome experience to totally obey God and reap the reward of obedience.
Second, ministry is my passion and I'm being released to operate fully in my calling
Thirdly, it’s comforting to know that God heard my, “I’m tired Lord cries”. My world was skewed- areas collided, overlapped. I sometimes worked through weekends with my children crying to go out for a day of relaxation. Balance is a powerful asset. I often felt like the hamster on the wheel- spinning and spinning burning energy but with no true end result of the success I had hope to achieve. My success is in totally obeying the will of God for my life. My prosperity, my wholeness is in totally obeying the will of God for my life. I can see now like the boy Elijah prayed to God about. I see it in the spirit realm and it doesn’t at all look like what is before me in the natural.
Along this path, wisdom has played a key role. I have connected with powerful women of God, not with their names in bright lights but those that chose to obey God and answer the call. Thanks Lord for true divine connections. So as I gear up for this journey I know that I’m headed in a new direction! A path led by God himself. My steps are being ordered by God. I’m not walking in the counsel of the ungodly or in the path of generational curses/hindrances. I am walking this one under divine leadership and guidance.
I don't know everything I'll face but I’m assured. My assurance is that my Father is well pleased with his daughter.
The Almighty, All knowing God is in action. He’s on the move in my life. Now whom or what shall I fear?

A shout out to my best friend, My husband

I love marriage! No not the wedding gown, glamour and glitz. That was wonderful but those are now just memories. However there is a substance to my marriage that is far more than superficial. We're best buds. I enjoy the friendship I have with my husband. We can laugh and cry together. We celebrate our victories and weather the storms of life together. I still find his eyes dreamy- watch out McDreamy!
He's my confidant, my shoulder to lean on, my prayer partner. He will rebuke me when needed! Can you imagine that? He has got to be a patient man- one who stands firmly on the Word of God.
My husband is a family oriented man; and is not ashamed that God has taught him to be a godly father.
My husband is a man of character, a man of God - he's got some real Boaz like qualities. True in the beginning of our marriage I did not really understand how God was processing him, preparing him for such an Anointed ministry. He has a word of fire in his belly. Tony is a true prophet of the Living God. I have seen him refuse to sell out to the enemy. He has refused to denounce his calling as a prophet to fit in. I admire that about him.
This past weekend my heart beamed with pride. My hubby was featured as a guest on the Powerful Living podcast that I co host with Prophetess Queen Esther Phillips. He spoke so eloquently. This man is awesome. He gave a word to fathers regarding their sons. He spoke about so many topics that have been stereotyped as "to emotional for real men". Well, the prophet went there!
His responses were so powerful and so needed in the body at this time. He encouraged men that it's okay to cry, it's okay to hug your sons and kiss them. Tony shared that this display of emotion does not alter your masculinity. As a matter of fact, it is a means of showing the love and compassion of Christ.
As God is propelling him into the office of a pastor there are changes.
I see the hunger for the lost on a new level, the patience, the closer walk with the Father (he refers to him as Abba).
I think of my friend and I smile. He has pressed through and is standing on the promises God made to him. No one is able to shake him-he is determined to be obedient. Doors have opened for ministry- the right doors. As he walks through, I'm honored to be there. I'm cheering him on in the spirit. God calls him friend and so do I.
I love you honey, Go forth and preach the Word of the True and Living God!

The journey continues....

Isaiah 40:31 (King James Version)
31But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint

When I read this scripture my littlest angel came to mind. Her name is Heaven and I wrote about her in an earlier blog (The joy of Knowing Heaven). My husband and I have been in her life now for almost two years as her guardian. In these years there have been many joyous moments, tearful moments and sometimes frightening.
However, as we waited on the Lord he has renewed us for this season.

Yesterday, things transpired legally that will bring a change. Heaven is one step closer to the permanency and the stability a child needs. In the natural it looked pretty scary but we're walking by faith not by sight. This child is covered by the shed blood of the Lamb. God uses who he wants to bring things to pass. So now we wait patiently, we walk upright not downtrodden. The prophecy given is unfolding. This child has a purposed filled life. No devil in hell can change that fact. Heaven will possess the promises of the Father. We hold fast to this belief.

We can run the course in faith. We have faith that God is Sovereign. My husband and I knew that this would be a journey, we knew it would be a process. On this journey we have encountered numerous others. Some prayed with us, some spoke against us. Nevertheless, we knew this would be a journey and that requires endurance! It requires a high level of faith, patience and vision.
We also knew that spiritually this journey had a purpose. The Father continues to renew, he continues to give us strength in this process. We believe that the ending of this thing will bring glory to His name. Heaven is God's own, he loves her and carried her thus far.

Growing in Him...

Colossians 1:10
10That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
As I read a few verses of the book of Colossians, I gleaned from the reading. Growth is important in the Body of Christ. Stagnation and/or falling away are contrary to God's will for his daughters. He wants us to have life, he desires us to grow in His knowledge.
Daily, I’m learning more about God and his characteristics. He is awesome. He does not speak to you in incomplete sentences or thoughts. He does not leave you on cliff hangers. No, he's clear and precise. He has a voice filled with authority yet loving kindness. He gives clear directives; the Holy Ghost brings the messages in loud and clear. Sometimes it's a small subtle peaceful voice.
God will speak things that lines up with His Word. He will tell you when things need to be put in order or if you've pleased Him. He has plans for his daughters; he makes provisions for His seed. He is a God of order. Having a teachable spirit is important. This helps us to understand things such as open rebuke. Open rebuke is not a bad thing but a concept born of His love for us. Even in the natural proper parenting consists of correction, discipline (teaching), empowerment, proper provision, and most of all unconditional love. He makes an awesome role model for us.
God has so much more in store for us in our walk with Him. Spending time with Him in prayer, studying His word, and sincere worship increases growth. These concepts coupled with operating and applying spiritual principles foster growth. We were not designed nor ordained to hang out in the nursery. God desires His children to continuously mature, to grow in Him.

Prayer:
Father, Today I pray that we continuously learn to walk upright before you. I pray that we live a life guided by your Holy Spirit. I pray that we will walk in what you have called us to do in a manner of excellence. I pray that we will glorify your name. Teach us your way O God that we may grow in you.
Amen.

I'm Thankful ..

I'm thankful today that I clearly hear and know the voice of God. Today I refuse to operate or think out of my pain of the past. If I did I would trust no one and be absorbed in anger. I would lash out and be geared to fight if I lived in my past.
I'm thankful for deliverance and wholeness. My thoughts are now lined up with the two.

I'm thankful that I walk with my Father. Today, I am surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses in heavenly places. I am a stronger person today. My level of growth is increasing; I now understand that the pain of unwarranted rejection does not have to destroy me as a person. I'm still God's own, He loves me still, and I’m his daughter!
Lesson learned, point taken God

He knows the type of heart I have. Not guilty of using others or seeking to gain anything from others. I'm thankful that I'm not a cold and calculated person nor am I a user. I am sincere and very sensitive. I consider others and not just my own needs/desires.

This past year was rough- it hurt and I needed restoration and ministering to. He knows what the depths of my pain were this past year. This past year put me in a new place. Roles were reversed. I was accustomed to constantly giving of myself to others and now needed to receive ministering to.

I used to get so frustrated when people falsely accused me of something I know I did not do-or my intention were misunderstood; but God will validate. I'm thankful that God is growing me up in this area. I'm thankful that I know and hold fast to the truth, not the pain, nor the anger, nor the hurt

God himself had to walk me through this transition. He ministered to me.
God kept me in what seemed like the darkest hours of my ministry and my life.
It was time ordained for healing. It's important to get full directions from the Father and know His voice, know His will.

I have learned to recognize when others are trying to truly help and are not looking for something in return. I also have learned there are those that do the opposite.
It’s been valuable for me to appreciate the gifts in others; and not keep them afar because of someone else’s actions in the past. It's a place I'm thankful for- a place of growth.

I'm thankful for the true friends that God placed in my life to minister to me. My true friends went to the Father on my behalf; and stepped outside of their own needs. There were moments when I would smile and my heart was broken. They understood little things -like how hard it was for me to now say a simple word like goodbye. After losing 7 relatives and one friend, it took on a negative connotation. I no longer liked to say goodbye because it was associated with pain. God’s still working with me on that one!
Somehow they patiently labored with me, didn't gossip or judge, or lash out in my mishaps. They understood what season I was in at those moments. Their prayers helped pull me through. Thank you, Lord for Spirit filled prayer warriors.

I'm thankful to be able to walk victoriously in my Father's anointing. I'm can stare the enemy down and say,” You cannot take up residency in this camp and I mean it". My tears are not my meat, the Word of God is. My friends are with me in prayer and I hold them dear.
I'm going where God leads -not where my own will says I should go.
Thanks Lord for valued lessons learned.

Great Reading Material

I am reading the book Naked and Not Ashamed by Bishop TD Jakes. The book is a wonderful teaching tool. Bishop Jakes is clear that God calls for us to do his work at what may seem like the wrong time in the natural. However God has His own purpose. He is the Creator we are the creation. His thoughts are higher than ours. I'm thankful for being led to read and gain greater understanding of how transparency leads to higher levels of worship. It leads to more time in communion with the Father. This book is awesome.
Prophetess Luckett

How I made it through my pain.............

There is no greater Love.. Than that of the Father

I'm convinced that God has an immeasurable amount of love and patience with his children. I'm also convinced that he has walked me through the dark times in my life where I was fainthearted and wearied. He nursed me back to health to a healing place in him. I made it because HE lives on the inside of me. I am stronger because He is the Almighty God. He gave me water for my thirst, food for thought.
My life has been a living testament to this fact. I had a what I call an ideal childhood, grew up in a home with two loving parents, a close knit extended family and a good solid educational background, opportunities for travel and I was the youngest child in the home!(we are unique) I had a lot of friends. Growing up in New Orleans was a real treat. Wow God is awesome!Thanks Lord for a good life..
However, in my short course of life there are things I experienced that were not so pleasant, not so memorable. That made me question if God really cared about me.
I've experienced pain: the pain of divorce, illness, the near death of my own child, loved ones who have passed on. One of the greatest times of trial in my life came to a head last year. It was the pain of losing both of my beloved parents by age 38- that's far too young in my mind. My father who appeared healthy to me died suddenly.

This pain pushed me into a place where man could not reach me. It pushed me to a place where I could not cry but simply moan or stare out into the heavens looking for answers. It pushed me away from others who had not a clue as to what I was experiencing.

My spirit man knew what I needed. I needed God, the father and in time would need his healing. But just at that moment I had to go through the pain to get to healing.
This pain pushed me into the Master's arms.

It made me realize that God is the final authority on my faith. He controls my destiny not me. Not the plans I wrote 10 years ago which looked like a "to do list for my life".

It reminded me of his gentle nature; he nursed me with his Word. His presence was food for my wearied soul. Sometimes my tears would fall internally but God reminded me that he had them in a bottle. He knew my sorrow; he knew my anger and frustration at losing not just my daddy but my friend. God knew that I felt my world crashing around me and was walking like a newborn colt on wobbly legs. He carried me in Worship; he cradled me at night when my tears were my meat. I've had times where I physically did not have the strength to walk but called on the name of the Lord our God and he healed.

No matter what I've been through good or bad- God never left me. He was there for me. He walked with me, carried me, celebrated with me, scolded me at times; and always reminded me of His love.

To those of you who have experienced or are currently experiencing the pain of loss be encouraged. God has your heart in his hand. He knows its delicate state and will care for it accordingly. He will under gird you with his strength and empower you for the victory that lies ahead. Don't give up; anchor yourself not in the flesh but in the Spirit of the Living God. God knows that in you lies the spirit of a conqueror. The Word of God is not cliche, it comes to life off of those pages when your in aplace that seems like you cannot make another day- look to Him for comfort, cry out Abba, he will answer your call. There's no game or gimmicks to the healing God brings to the wearied, it's real!

Be blessed
Prophetess Valencia Luckett

A path for believers in 2008...

I make no secret of hearing from my Heavenly Father. I'll share with readers what God shared with me..... From the heart...............
He knows that this is a year of New Beginnings for the Body of Christ but there are some foundational matters that cannot be ignored. He wants the believer to be whole ( that what true prosperity is) He desires for us to obtain his promises this year as we walk in obedience to his Word. God desires for us to operate in the principles that are found from Genesis to Revelations. Not just a touch of the anointing but an outpouring is required. We need to be absorbed in him. Meshed with him so that we hear from him daily. This will be a year of New beginnings but not as defined by things or people- however, only by God's Perfect Will for our lives. So please stop, take heed and listen for the voice of God this year. Don't operate in your own will or ideas- use his their foolproof, perfected. Let wisdom be the principle thing this year. Follow the directives of God- he desires to be the center of our lives. He is the very core of our daily walk in this life.
If I had to sum it up I would say God just wants us to draw closer to him as any Father would their child. In being closer we will learn more about his character that we may know we were truly created in his image. We will develop a hunger for righteousness and not for the things of this world. Celebration is at hand for those that obey and are willing to release their own way of doing things. The wilderness experience though ordained was not meant to tarry for an eternity. There's a path this year laid before us.. We have to chose which one we'll travel. the God ordained path for 2008 or the one your flesh can create which will get you..?

My personal Prayer for the Body of Christ: Lord let believers this year say with our hearts and minds: "Hear am I Lord hearkening unto your voice". Let there be a desire to know and operate in your Will. Lord help us to achieve the goals you have laid before us . Let the Ministries you have placed in us not lie dormant any longer. Father orchestrate divine connections that will propel us to further the Gospel around the world. Let no assignment big or little go undone.
Let our homes and personal lives including our financial state be in divine order. Make plain this year your financial plan for the believer.
Let your servants of the Gospel preach that your are the True and Living God. Let us operate according to the unction of the Holy Ghost not our own beliefs and ideas.
AMEN

17 years of preparation..... Happy 18th Birthday, Dari

As a former single parent, I want to personally Thank the Father for keeping my daugther and I over the last 17 years. We've had storms in our lives that seemed like CAT> 5 hurricanes. We have had laughter and tears in our relationship. There's been frustration and relief. Healing took place, lots of playfulness. Tea parties, kisses applied to hurts, hugs, words of wisdom( although she probably thought of it as nagging). Major losses and gain as well. All helped to form a plateau, a foundation if you will.

But there are some deeper matters I had to search out.

My little girl is rapidly approaching her 18th birthday- Wow! I cannot believe that my baby is hitting a major milestone. I know I prepared her in the natural but wait- did I prepare her spiritually? I've had to consider all things when I searched this out.

I began to reflect back over the years. I found out that yes I taught her the biblical principles outlined for us in the word, yes I showed her the love of Christ, and how to walk by faith and not by sight. I taught her to share with others, to give beyond her needs. To reach the lost through evangelism. How to lay hands on the sick and tormented that they may be healed. She knows how to pray, fast and supplicate unto the Lord. She's knows to tell the enemy he has no authority and mean it.

Hmm.. I taught her to stand in the midst of a storm and not waiver. My daughter knows that God's angels have charge over her. God promised her safety and protection. She knows that life is filled with ups and downs but God remains stable in all things. The word Mama packs a powerful punch in her life. You see I was single parent. Even in my first marriage I faced the task of rearing her alone.

The enemy tried to show the negatives like the times I've said things I should not have, done things I should not have, wrong responses:) Things that are a part of our human nature.
He tried to imply she'll recreate the generational curses and not step into generational blessings.
He tried to steal God's glory in this occasion. Not going to happen, Devil- you lose- she's God's own. I will not walk in condemnation and neither will she. Here's the revelation

Wait Lord, are my errors indicative of the fact I failed at proper parenting? A resounding No came back. If you had not the capacity to plunder, fall and outright mess stuff up then there would be no need for Salvation, forgiveness and unconditional love. Where would the testament of my loving kindness fit? Ah..Thanks ABBA.

Oh! I get it Lord- it's in my imperfection she saw you and my need for you in our lives! She did not see me wallow in sin but come to repentance. She saw me trust that you were a forgiving God. She saw me operating in the principles your son set on Calvary.

Oh! I'm excited- my baby will know that God loves her unconditionally, she will know that he is a Redeemer, A healer, a friend. Thank You Lord for making me a Living Testimony. She will know you provided for us in dark times. What a keepsake. What a legacy to share.


However, we're good to go- come on 18 we're ready for what you have in store. God will get the glory for the process he started 17 years ago in our lives. She will be more than a conqueror, a butterfly blossomed, a virtuous woman of God. I'm convinced that he that began a good work in her life will not stop until its' perfected.

Happy 18th Birthday Sweetheart,
Love Momma