Monday, October 1, 2012

VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- October 2012

My name is Courtney Ware, a guest blogger this month, and I have known October's Vehicle of Compassion since childhood. We grew up together spiritually in the same church -- Ben Hill United Methodist Church in Atlanta, GA. We attended Sunday school, Confirmation and youth ministry activities until we graduated from high school.  We went our separate ways for college, but we never lost touch.
I had the honor of witnessing her wedding in April 2010; I can still see her gorgeous smile. And she never lost her smile, even after being diagnosed with breast cancer only a few months later. Her smile is the evidence of the JOY that only knowing Jesus Christ can give. She is the epitome of compassion -- a nurse who gives of herself every day to sick children and their families. She loves her job! I have never been more inspired to live and live fully, to love unconditionally, and to trust God without fear than by watching her testimony.

I love her and I'm grateful to call her friend! Please be inspired and encouraged by the story of this month's Vehicle of Compassion, Tiffany Danielle Kinkead (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html).
With love,
Courtney Ware

Saturday, September 1, 2012

VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- September 2012

I've known this month's Vehicle of Compassion for 17 years. As members of Mahogany-N-Motion during our college years, we shared a love for performing arts. She is a fireball (don't let her petite stature fool you)--her dance performances are full of pizzazz! Nowadays, she is my Zumba instructor, and during each class session she succeeds in recreating the dance rehearsal episodes of Fame. 

She is a genuine demonstration of one who lives by the Spirit. In all the years I've known her, I've never heard her utter an unkind word about anyone. She always greets people with a warm, welcoming smile, and exudes all the fruits of the Spirit.
I invite you to read about my Angel, friend and Spelman sister, Susan McGhee (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html). I'm certain her testimony will inspire you to follow the Spirit.
Peace & Love You More...Malkia

Saturday, August 11, 2012

BLOG PARTY -- CELEBRATING 2

Thank God! Call out his Name! Tell the whole world who he is and what he's done! Sing to him! Play songs for him! Broadcast all his wonders! Revel in his holy Name, God-seekers, be jubilant! Study God and his strength, seek his presence day and night; Remember all the wonders he performed, the miracles and judgments that came out of his mouth. Seed of Israel his servant! Children of Jacob, his first choice! (1 Chronicles 16:8-13, MSG).

From Hell to Win is celebrating 2 today!

Dear God:

Today marks a second year of celebrating You through blogging. In a posture of prayer and a heart consumed with thanksgiving, I broadcast my love for You. You are praiseworthy and I thank You for the mobility of my hands to compose inspiring messages of hope, praise, and triumph.

You have blessed me with a ministry to tell the whole wide world about You and Your awesome works. (1 Chronicles 16:8, MSG). Leading up to today, You allowed me to share what it means to live by and follow the Spirit--I ask that You continue to use me to express the benefits of having an intimate relationship with You. (Galatians 5:25, HCSB).

LORD, I extend appreciation to all From Hell to Win readers. I love them more! Because they are dear to me, I not only share Your Gospel, I share my life. (1 Thessalonians 2:8, NIV). For two years I've revealed my hells and wins, praying that my testimony would glorify You and offer encouragement to every reader. I intercede for current (and future) readers, asking that they:
  • remember Your promises when life is challenging;
  • declare life is good as they recall Your deeds; and
  • believe the words of Jesus Christ: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10, KJV).
LORD, I thank You for the growth and development of From Hell to Win. In particular, I delight in featuring Vehicles of Compassion. All these people live(d) by faith and I hope their testimonials influence others to become Vehicles of Compassion. (Hebrews 11:13, NIV).

LORD, You are my first choice and You are the Life of my blog party! I sing jubilant songs to You. In the days ahead, it is my desire that the prayers I post on From Hell to Win will continue to exalt You.

In the celebratory name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Thank you for attending From Hell to Win's blog party!

Peace & Love You More...Malkia

Friday, August 10, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: SELF-CONTROL

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. (2 Timothy 1:7, AMP).

Living God: Giver of Life, thank You for breathing me into existence. (Genesis 2:7, NIV). I kneel before Your throne in worship, extending my gratitude for being with me from my Hell to my Win. In jubilant song, I praise You for being my everything!

When I think about the Spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness, I must glorify You. (Galatians 5:22-23, HCSB).

I am a living, breathing witness, that following the Spirit of self-control has kept me from experiencing a multitude of emotional outbursts. However, I confess that I sometimes suffer from conniptions. Fortunately, my emotional outbursts have been restricted--within the confines of my home, car, and in the company of my closest (empathizing, understanding) friends, I cuss like I'm unconverted.

I admit that I need Your help in being more self-controlled. With my tongue I praise You, and with it I curse people, who have been made in Your likeness--I know this should not be. (James 4:9, 10, NIV). Purify my heart, O God, and assist me in following the Spirit of self-control more closely.

Continue to mature me, LORD; may I be more devoted to following the Spirit of self-control.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Thursday, August 9, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: GENTLENESS

We are to be gentle (reasonable, fair minded, and charitable) to those outside the church, and not just to fellow believers. This means we are not to seek revenge against those who treat us unfairly, nor are we to be overly vocal about our personal rights. (Philippians 4:5, NIV Application Notes).

Living God: I thank You for being everywhere. I worship You because You are within my reach--it's remarkable that I can extend my hand and in return You touch me with gentleness. You're so wonderful!

I want to learn more about gentleness, O LORD. Help me to control my thought-life and harness my tongue so my "gentleness is evident to all." (Philippians 4:5, NIV). Engrave Your words of forgiveness upon my heart so my freedom is evident to all. Restrict my pride and help me practice humility.

Since I live by the Spirit, I realize I must also follow the Spirt of gentleness. (Galatians 5: 25, HCSB). As much as I try to be a Vehicle of Compassion, I confess that my thoughts, actions and words aren't always sweet, sometimes they're downright sour. Teach me how to interact with all people reasonably, justly, and graciously. (Philippians 4:5, NIV Application Notes).

I rejoice and extend my gratitude for sending me a gentle King--righteous and having salvation. (Zechariah 9:9, NIV). Let me follow His example, let me follow the Spirit.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: FAITH

And Jesus, replying, said to them, Have faith in God [constantly]. Truly I tell you, whoever says to this mountain, Be lifted up and thrown into the sea! and does not doubt at all in his heart but believes that what he says will take place, it will be done for him. For this reason I am telling you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it]. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your failings and shortcomings. (Mark 11:22-26, AMP).
Living God: You are my Endless Love and I thank You for embracing me with Your tenderness! I bow down in worship, acknowledging Your sovereignty. Heavenly Father, I celebrate You!
Grow my faith in You, O LORD, that it may be endless. Like Joseph, let me believe You "will surely come to" my aid and take me to my promised land. (Genesis 50:24, NIV). Like Hannah, let me continue to worship and praise You for honoring my requests. (1 Samuel 1:19; 1 Samuel 2:1-10). Like Stephen, let me be "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit," and have a willingness to forgive those who oppose me. (Acts 6:5; 7:60, NIV).

I want to trust You more, O LORD! I confess that doubt hinders my reliance on You. I confess that I hold grudges from past hurts, imagine how I'd retaliate, and totally blank out on the fact that it's Your role to avenge. (Hebrews 10:30, NIV).

Coach me, O LORD, to follow the Spirit. Train me, O LORD--let my faith be fit to believe that nothing is impossible with You! (Luke 1:37, NIV).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: GOODNESS

Moses said, "Please. Let me see your Glory." God said, "I will make my Goodness pass right in front of you; I'll call out the name, God, right before you. I'll treat well whomever I want to treat well and I'll be kind to whomever I want to be kind." (Exodus 33:18-19, MSG).

I'm sure now I'll see God's goodness in the exuberant earth. Stay with God! Take heart. Don't quit. I'll say it again: Stay with God. (Psalm 27:13-14, MSG).

Living God: I approach Your throne this evening in reverence, bowing down to thank You for being my Creator. "I am so happy that" You "planned for me to be born in this galaxy, in this universe, on this planet." (Witnessing journal entry of Geralyne M. Holt). I rejoice in Your presence!

I treasure our intimate relationship--to know that You're pleased with me and know me by name is quite an honor. (Exodus 33:17, NIV). To hear You declare that your Goodness will pass right before me is music to my ears. (Exodus 33:19, MSG).

LORD, thanks for being attentive to all of my requests. As I decompress and reflect upon the day's events, I must tell You how grateful I am to experience Your goodness in the land of the living. You treat me well and kind--You give me star treatment.

I confess that I do get discouraged--I don't always possess confident vision and there are times when I want to quit. (Psalm 27:13-14, MSG). Increase my faith, O LORD, and decrease my fears.

I'm fully committed to stay with You! (Psalm 27:14, MSG). I will follow the Spirit of goodness!

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Monday, August 6, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: KINDNESS

I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the Lord has done for us—yes, the many good things he has done for Israel, according to his compassion and many kindnesses. (Isaiah 63:7, NIV).

Living God: Thank you for being awake and attentive, to hear our song of adoration. You are amazing, O LORD, and we praise You for being kind to Your people.

In our daily living, keep us mindful of the kind things You have done. As we go about our day, let us exhibit kindness to others--greeting them with joyous smiles. Give us opportunities to tell of Your kindnesses to people that need to hear an encouraging, hospitable word.

Purify our hearts, O God--remove anything that is not demonstrative of Your loving-kindness. Forgive us for the times we've been unkind, mean-spirited and vengeful. Help us to adhere to the command given in Ephesians 4:32: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

We lift our hands in worship and lift our eyes to Heaven to say "Thank You" for being affectionate, benevolent, gracious, and understanding. Keep us faithful in following the Spirit.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Sunday, August 5, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: PATIENCE

Don’t forget all the hard times you went through when you first received the light. Sometimes you were abused and mistreated in public, and at other times you shared in the sufferings of others. You were kind to people in jail. And you gladly let your possessions be taken away, because you knew you had something better, something that would last forever. Keep on being brave! It will bring you great rewards. Learn to be patient, so that you will please God and be given what he has promised. (Hebrews 10:32-37, CEV).

Living God: I bow down in reverence because You are majestic. Serving You is an honor and I want to thank You for entrusting me to do good works here on Earth. My ever-present God--I love You more each day!

When I think about the times I could've lost all of my marbles, it was your Spirit of patience that maintained my composure. Memory won't let me forget life's challenges--I've experienced abuse and mistreatment, and I've "shared in the sufferings of others." (Hebrews 10:33, CEV). Yet, because of the relationship I have with You, I am sane and more than satisfied.

Forgive me for being impatient. For You know what irks me, and my (body) language sometimes reflects intolerance.

Teach me to be patient, O LORD. I long to please You and I have a willingness to follow the Spirit, so I may obtain Your promises. (Hebrews 10:36, CEV). Anoint me with an attitude of bravery as I navigate the journey You've set forth.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Saturday, August 4, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: PEACE

"I was pouring out my soul to the LORD." .... Eli answered, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him." (1 Samuel 1:15, 17, NIV).

Living God: On bended knee, I sing Your praises. I welcome Your presence and give thanks because Your peace resides with me. Attune my ears to the calm You bring when You enter the atmosphere. In adoration, I lift my hands in worship and pour out my soul to You, O LORD. (1 Samuel 1:15, NIV).

Master, I come interceding for the world today, asking:
  • that trouble be replaced by tranquility;
  • that stress be replaced by serenity;
  • that rage be replaced by rest;
  • that hatred be replaced by harmony;
  • that fighting be replaced by forgiveness.

In stillness, we know that You are God. (Psalm 46:10, NIV). However, life is challenging when deafening sounds fill our surroundings. Forgive us for the times we've been fearful and fickle, not recalling that Jesus rebukes the wind and says to the sea: "Peace, be still!" (Mark 4:39-40, NKJV).

Increase our faith to truly believe that life is good and You, O God, will grant what we've asked of You.

Let us follow the Spirit and continue to tell the world that life is abundant because Jesus is the giver of peace. (John 14:27, NIV).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Friday, August 3, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: JOY

He is not here! For He has been resurrected, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead. In fact, He is going ahead of you to Galilee; you will see Him there.’ Listen, I have told you.” So, departing quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, they ran to tell His disciples the news. Just then Jesus met them and said, “Good morning!” They came up, took hold of His feet, and worshiped Him. Then Jesus told them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see Me there.” (Matthew 28:6-10, HCSB).

Living God: I praise You for being three-dimensional--Father, Son & Spirit! I bow down in worship because You are alive. I extend my thanks to You because You are a  Promise-Keeper. With abundant joy, I exalt You.

As I reflect on Matthew 28 verses 6 through 10, it is an honor to be greeted by the Son. As challenging as life gets, I can be certain that joy comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5, KJV). LORD, keep me mindful at all times that You gifted a Savior to me with resurrection power. Ready my feet to run and tell the good news about Jesus Christ, "the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:16, KJV).

Increase my faith, that it may be unwavering. Forgive me for the times I've been hesitant and fearful to follow Your instructions. Give me the determination to follow the Spirit, so I may share the joy of having a relationship with You.

Enhance my vision to see Jesus today and enable my voice to say: "in Your presence is fullness of joy." (Psalm 16:11, AMP).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Thursday, August 2, 2012

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: LOVE

Jesus answered, The first and principal one of all commands is: Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God is one Lord; And you shall love the Lord your God out of and with your whole heart and out of and with all your soul (your life) and out of and with all your mind (with your faculty of thought and your moral understanding) and out of and with all your strength. This is the first and principal commandment. The second is like it and is this, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:29-31, AMP).

Living God: I lift my hands in praise and worship because You are real. I enter Your presence with a heart filled with thanksgiving because Your love for me is so abundant that I am not consumed. (Lamentations 3:22, NIV).

LORD, please forgive me of my sins--for I have said, done, and thought things that are not representative of Your love. It is my desire to show and tell how much I love You, so please purify my heart, remove hateful thoughts from my mind, change my life that I may imitate Christ, and empower me to love You more and extend love to others.

I ask that your Holy Spirit fall upon me now, that I may go forward in faith, demonstrating how much I love You with all of my heart, mind, soul and strength. (Mark 12:30, AMP). Let me follow Your command and practice bearing the fruit of Love--may my life be pleasing to You, and use me, O LORD, to encourage others to live by the Spirit and follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:25, HCSB).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- August 2012

When the author of Psalm 91 wrote verses eleven and twelve, they must have had this month's Vehicle of Compassion in mind.

For He will give His angels orders concerning you, to protect you in all your ways. They will support you with their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
(Psalm 91:11-12, HCSB).

Thanksgiving flows from my heart and I'm compelled to give the highest form of praise to the LORD for assigning this angel to me!

Geraldyne M. Holt (affectionately called Aunt Gerl)--a dear friend, extraordinary woman of faith, and my inspiration--was my Earth Angel and now holds the title of Heavenly Angel.

This month's feature is quite different from the others because I wasn't physically able to interview Aunt Gerl. However, Aunt Gerl's hands have always been instruments of praise & teaching. So, it is through the correspondence we exchanged and the handwritten journal she gifted to me, that I'm able to introduce you to her. (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html).

It is my hope that you will be blessed to learn about the faith walk of one of the LORD's most beloved angels.

Peace & Love You More...Malkia

Sunday, July 1, 2012

VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- July 2012

I am blessed to call this month's Vehicle of Compassion my Angel, Friend & Sister. I met this extraordinary young lady in 2007 when she accepted a position with the same law firm that created a position for me in 2006 (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2010/08/anyone-in-need-of-balance.html).

I'm certain our friendship budded quickly because we share some commonalities:

  1. we're sisters in Christ;
  2. we're graduates of HBCUs;
  3. we're sorority sisters;
  4. we're fans of gospel & soul music;
  5. we're fans of Latin dance;
  6. we're socially conscious; and
  7. we believe in the miracle-working power of prayer.
Considering our age difference, I took her "under my wing" and did my very best to offer sound advice to her about life, love, and familial relationships.

For 5 years I've watched her take full advantage of her numerous God-given talents! She is one of the few geniuses I know--I truly believe she could be a Rocket Scientist if that's what she desired. I admire her most for her discipline, drive & tenacity! She has a robust energy for life and always displays a cheerful, compassionate attitude.

When you see her beaming smile, it's evident that you're in the presence of one of God's angels! It is an honor and brings joy to my heart to introduce you to the July 2012 Vehicle of Compassion, Racheal M. Brooks (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html).

Peace & Love You More...Malkia

Friday, June 1, 2012

VEHICLES OF COMPASSION -- June 2012

I have 3 questions for you:
  1. By show of hands, who can honestly say that they love their job?
  2. By show of hands, who can have professional (and respectful) truth-telling conversations with their employers?
  3. By show of hands, who has employers who say "We love you!" (in an appropriate manner) when you share your personal concerns?
I obviously can't see your response, but I can tell you that I raised both of my hands in response to the aforementioned questions.

If a pollster were ever to ask me to name the best employers on planet Earth, I'd say Paul S. Kish and W. Carl Lietz III with enthusiasm and without hesitation.

Before leaving an interview for a receptionist position, I was introduced to Mr. Kish and Mr. Lietz, not fully understanding that I was referred to them for consideration as their part-time office manager. I had no idea they recently formed their own law practice. All I knew was that I needed a job. So, when I walked into a large conference room, shook their hands, sat down and they started asking me questions, I acted accordingly.

Since the spring of 2006 I've served as the office manager / legal assistant / receptionist / photographer / researcher / process recorder / event planner / travel coordinator / Wonder Woman for Kish & Lietz, P.C.. Note, I've made mention of my employers in ANYONE IN NEED OF BALANCE (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2010/08/anyone-in-need-of-balance.html) and STANDING IN A HOSTILE WORKPLACE (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/05/standing-in-hostile-workplace.html).

The same year of my DOWNPOUR (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/07/downpour.html), these two gentlemen extended compassion to me in a manner that I'd never experienced in the workplace. Having experienced the most hellish weekend in my adult life, when I got to work on the morning of Monday, August 7, 2006, Paul asked me how my weekend was and I told him the truth: My weekend was [insert explicit phrase]! I asked if could I speak with him and Carl privately. The three of us gathered in Paul's office. When I finished explaining my "Hell," Carl replied with a winning phrase: Malkia, we love you!

For over six years, the LORD has blessed me to work with two Angels! There is no treasure large enough for me to reward Paul and Carl for showing me compassion. However, I'm mindful to tell them how much I appreciate them on a consistent basis.

Today is my opportunity to tell the whole wide world how much I love Paul S. Kish and W. Carl Lietz III; it is an honor and absolute pleasure to introduce you to the June 2012 Vehicles of Compassion (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html)!

Peace & Love You More...Malkia

Monday, May 21, 2012

ALL ABOARD THE SELF-IMPROVEMENT SHUTTLE -- 2nd Stop: Depart from Sin

After 37 years in the desert, the Israelites forgot that their wanderings were a result of their parents' and their own sin. They could not accept the fact that they brought their problems upon themselves, so they blamed Moses for their condition. Often our troubles result from our own disobedience or lack of faith. We cannot blame God for our sins. Until we face this reality, we will have little peace and no spiritual growth. (Numbers 20:3-5, NIV Application Notes).

Considering the increasing cost of fuel, riding this Self-Improvement Shuttle is economical. With the money I saved, I was able to buy some new outfits and accessories for my trip to the desert.

Hmmm...I think this is the first time I've actually enjoyed riding on a motor coach. The seats are clean, cozy and spacious. The temperature is comfortable. The ride is smooth. I've got WiFi access, and electrical outlets are available for me to plug in my iPhone & iPad. The sights, sounds and smells on the Self-Improvement Shuttle don't make me cringe! I may have to re-think the motto I normally adhere to: Malkia does not do public transportation! (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/04/vehicle-of-compassion-part-ii.html).

Next stop, Wandering Desert.

As soon as I depart the shuttle, my tour guide greets me and hands me a backpack.

Hello Malkia, and welcome to Wandering Desert! My name is Lucy Fur, and I'll be your guide as we navigate Wandering Desert's most popular attraction--a 37-mile hike on the Memory Lane Trail. All of our visitors receive a souvenir survival kit for the hike. Inside your backpack you'll find the following items:
  • 2 water canteens from Bitter Bistro. Considering the desert temperature and length of the hike, you'll want to stay hydrated;
  • a coupon from Divination Department Store for 50% off your purchase of any pair of hiking boots. You'll definitely need boots to withstand the desert terrain;
  • a battery operated fan from the Church of God I'm in Denial; and
  • an assortment of fresh fruit from Stuck on Stupid Supermarket.
You'll also find a map of the 37-mile route in the side pouch of your backpack.


Memory Lane Trail Landmarks:
  1. Divination Department Store
  2. Bitter Bistro
  3. Scapegoat Spa
  4. Greed Gym
  5. Eye Candy Store
  6. Church of God I'm in Denial
  7. Bank of Financial Irresponsibility
  8. Hostility Clinic
  9. Self-Destructive Auto Dealership
  10. Rebel Gas Station & Inconvenience Store
  11. Pity Party Water Park
  12. Fairy Tale Estates
  13. Complain Country Club
  14. Idolatry Business Center
  15. Jealousy Arena
  16. Vengeful Gardens
  17. Blues Bed & Breakfast
  18. Whinery
  19. Repeat Offender Law Firm
  20. Stuck on Stupid Supermarket
As soon as you purchase your hiking boots, we'll begin our 37-mile journey.

God, since January, I've been gearing up to celebrate my 37th year of life. Five whole months of planning my birthday vacay to the Wandering Desert and now that I'm here, I find out Lucy Fur (aka the Devil) is my tour guide down Memory Lane Trail.

Seriously?! I have lost valuable hours of sleep over the excitement of celebrating 37!

I am H-O-T: 
  1. I've got beads of sweat rolling down my face;
  2. these canteens are full of funny-tasting water;
  3. this battery-operated fan-on-a-rope is circulating nothing but hot air;
  4. I can't eat any of the fresh fruit because I'm allergic to blueberries, kiwi and oranges; and
  5. to top it all off, I've gotta walk 37 miles with a tour guide that's taking me to every single sinful place I've ever lingered!
Uuuuugh, this is not the celebration I envisioned...O LORD, what have I done to deserve a 37-mile reenactment of my sinful behavior?!

Life is challenging because walking down the Memory Lane Trail is an audio-visual reminder that I'm a wandering, repeat offender of sin. Yes, it's my reality that this is not my first trip to Wandering Desert. In fact, circa 19__ through 20__, my desert trips happened so regularly they became predictable. The moment I decided to do good, sin was there to trip me up. I truly delighted in Your commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joined in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebelled, and just when I least expected it, they took charge. (Romans 7:21-24, MSG).

Countless times, I thought changing locations on the Memory Lane Trail would change Your will. (Numbers 23:27, NIV Application Notes). I'd wander from the Whinery to the Rebel Gas Station & Inconvenience Store. Ignoring the advice of my sister: Eye candy gives you cavities!, I hiked all the way up to the Eye Candy Store just to trudge back down to the Blues Bed & Breakfast.

On Sundays, I'd go to worship service at the Church of God I'm in Denial, then I'd go grocery shopping at Stuck on Stupid Supermarket immediately after service.

When You answered my prayers for a salary increase as the property manager at Idolatry Business Center, I opened checking and savings accounts at the Bank of Financial Irresponsibility. Because my raise was more than substantial,
  1. I purchased a condo in Fairy Tale Estates, which came with a free membership at Complain Country Club;
  2. I bought a 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Bi-Centennial Edition Convertible from Self-Destructive Auto Dealership;
  3. I treated myself to weekly treatments at Scapegoat Spa; and
  4. I got a personal trainer at Greed Gym to help me maintain my circa 1997 figure.
Unfortunately in 1998, I was involved in my first automobile accident. Considering how much I paid for my classic car, I knew I needed a top-notch attorney. Hence, I hired the senior partner at Repeat Offender Law Firm to handle my personal injury case. Due to the injuries I sustained as a result of the motor vehicle accident, I began physical therapy at Hostility Clinic. And, although I had top-notch legal representation and medical care, I often dined at Bitter Bistro because it was hassle to:
  • go to court;
  • setup an appointment to get an appraisal at the collision center;
  • keep track of my medical expenses;
  • drive a tiny car because my rental reimbursement coverage rate was $37 per day;
  • keep my attorney updated on my physical therapy sessions; and
  • keep my insurance claims rep updated about my automobile repairs.
God, please forgive me for all of my disobedience and faithlessness (and don't forget that I never lingered at Divination Department Store)! I repent and accept the fact that I've brought many of my problems upon myself--I know I can't blame You for my condition. Please tell me what I must do to obtain Your perfect peace. O God, show me what I must do to cultivate our relationship. (Numbers 20:3-5, NIV Application Notes).

Malkia, "you are not to go back that way again." (Deuteronomy 17:16, NIV).

Life is good because I remember the exact moments my relationship with You took pivotal turns.
  1. November 1, 2003: During my visit to the Pity Party Water Park, I heard You say, "Get down on your knees and pray!" From that day forward, I conversed with You every morning at 6:00am.
  2. June 20, 2006: I declared that I'm ready and willing to live how You are instructing me to live.
  3. June 25, 2006: Instead of lingering at Vengeful Gardens, I "kneeled at" Your "altar and permitted myself to release 20+ years worth of tears. ...I willfully laid my burdens down...." (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/07/downpour.html).
  4. November 21, 2011: I stopped lingering at Jealousy Arena because You said "Be still, and know that I am God...." (Psalm 46:10, KJV). (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/11/wait-for-win.html).
  5. December 3, 2011: I promised to make You my top priority. No people, no places and no things will distract me from strengthening my relationship with You.
Life is abundant because I've come a long way from my desert wanderings! As I celebrate 37, I'm letting You work Your will in me. I've hollered a loud no to the Devil and watched her scamper. When I sit in my closet and say a quiet yes to You, You are there in no time. I'm committed to quit dabbling in sin. I'm purifying my inner life. ...I am really serious. Every time I get down on my knees before You, O God, I know it's the only way I'll get on my feet. (James 4:7-10, MSG).

I'm ready to throw away my old way of living and move ahead into a new life of obedience to You and faith in Jesus Christ. Like the Israelites moving into the promised land, I can choose to destroy the wickedness in my life or settle down and live with it. To move in and possess my new life, to possess my wins, I understand that I must drive out my sinful thoughts and practices to make room for the new. (Numbers 33:50-53, NIV Application Notes). I'm ready to depart from sin.

I am ready to board the Self-Improvement Shuttle!

LORD, I am fully aware that Self-Improvement is a P-R-O-C-E-S-S. I know this journey will last a lifetime and I may have to revisit some destinations. Reassure me that I'm well-equipped to go through this process.

Direct me in the way I should go. (Isaiah 48:17, NIV). Lead me to the next stop on this Self-Improvement route. Reassure me that I will eventually reach the final destination of win.

I intercede for those who hesitate boarding the Self-Improvement Shuttle--Holy Spirit, please influence them to take the liberating ride.

Sovereign God, thank you for being my Teacher. I extol You for being my Master. Thank you for providing me a traveling companion in Jesus Christ. In His name, I pray...AMEN.

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Being sanctified is not a setback.
Not only are you set apart, you're setup to receive God's wins.

Could it be any clearer? Our old way of life was nailed to the cross with Christ, a decisive end to that sin-miserable life—no longer at sin's every beck and call! What we believe is this: If we get included in Christ's sin-conquering death, we also get included in his life-saving resurrection. We know that when Jesus was raised from the dead it was a signal of the end of death-as-the-end. Never again will death have the last word. When Jesus died, he took sin down with him, but alive he brings God down to us. From now on, think of it this way: Sin speaks a dead language that means nothing to you; God speaks your mother tongue, and you hang on every word. You are dead to sin and alive to God. That's what Jesus did. (Romans 6:6-11, MSG).

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

VEHICLES OF COMPASSION -- May 2012

In the Fall of 2003, four of my favorite people left Atlanta and moved to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. I was heartbroken; they were a major reason for my moving back to Atlanta. From May 2003 through September 2003, I would visit them in Duluth, Georgia (approximately 50 minutes away from my home) and we'd spend hours of quality time together.

Nine years later, five of my favorite people now live in Texas.

This month's Vehicles of Compassion are the parents of my 3 godchildren. It is an honor and privilege to introduce From Hell to Win readers to Darron and Erika Johnson. Together, they are my contemporary model of a dynamic duo! They are extraordinary--extraordinary parents, extraordinary friends, and they exude an extraordinary love for God!

My friendship with Darron spans 19 years--we met our freshman year in college. And, my friendship with Erika commenced when they married nearly 12 years ago. We've shared countless heartfelt moments together--crying, encouraging, laughing, praying, and truth-telling.

I invite you to read about my Angels and friends, Pastor Darron and First Lady Erika Johnson (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html). I'm confident that you will be blessed to learn about the faith walk of the May 2012 Vehicles of Compassion.

Peace & Love You More...Malkia


Sunday, April 1, 2012

VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- April 2012

This month's Vehicle of Compassion was my inspiration for writing Friendship Vowed (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/03/friendship-vowed.html). I was introduced to him via e-mail, before I met him in-person; his aunt asked that I look out for him while he attended college. Our friendship commenced on a Sunday in the Fall of 2007--I invited him to worship service and treated him to Sunday dinner at my home.


I'm extremely proud of this young man. For 4 years, I looked after him like he was my biological brother (not just my Morehouse brother). He is my shining star--charismatic, comedic, compassionate...he is my Angel and friend. I invite you to read about the April 2012 Vehicle of Compassion, Eric Mosley (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html). 

Peace & Love You More...Malkia

Thursday, March 1, 2012

INTRODUCING...Vehicles of Compassion

As part of the growth and development of From Hell to Win: Prayers for Life's Challenges, today marks the introduction of Vehicles of Compassion.

The Vehicles of Compassion page will highlight extraordinary people I consider Angels and friends.  A new person will be featured each month.

I value the compassion each individual has shown me throughout the years and I believe From Hell to Win readers will be blessed to learn about their faith walk.

Having known this month’s Vehicle of Compassion for nearly six years, she oozes compassion and humility. Every time I've asked for her assistance, she never hesitates to offer instruction and sound advice. She is an extraordinary person and I'm honored to call her Angel and friend. I invite you to read about the March 2012 Vehicle of Compassion, Courtney D. Ware (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/p/vehicles-of-compassion.html). 

Peace & Love You More…Malkia