Church 4 Chicks!

The truth was the truth all along—but until I knew the truth, I couldn’t be free #Shine

2012-01-25T14:25:00.000-05:00

I shared inthis week’s teaching that for as long as I can remember, between the ages ofbabyhood and about 25, I was very afraid of men with beards and shaggy clothesor blue collar type work clothes. I can’t count the number of times Iexperienced a scenario like this one I am going to share with you. Picture mewalking down an aisle in the grocery store, minding my own business, making mygrocery selections and keeping tabs on my calculator. I focus intently onwhatever I am doing—so much so that it drives my family crazy sometimes. Thewhole house could fall down around me while I’m focused on the task at hand andI probably would not skip a beat in what I am working on. In fact, a counselorfriend once told me if I had any more dopamine in my brain, I would bepsychotic! (He said this tongue-in-cheek….I think!)

So back to my scenario: Picture mefocused intently on the task of grocery shopping—something I don’t enjoyanyways—and not noticing anyone around me except to go around them instead ofthrough them as I do my shopping. Then, as if a radar detects danger, I noticea man round the corner with his own buggy, sporting a long beard, long hair andhis work clothes from a construction job or something similar. Immediately, andwithout any provocation, my heart begins beating faster. I sense danger. I feelthe intense need to make myself completely invisible to him. I feel panicky.But I have NO idea why. Logic tells me I’m being ridiculous. “Shelley, why areyou freaking out? This guy has not done anything to you. Why do you always dothis? Are you a bigot towards white men with shaggy hair or guys who work bluecollar jobs?”

This issue was so prevalent with methat I did not like it when the men in my life grew mustaches or beards. And Ihad NO idea why.

Until one day in 1999 when my olderbrother and I were talking about memories from childhood. This was during theseason I was experiencing an unwanted divorce from my first husband. My familymembers rose to the occasion big time and they all surrounded me with greatsupport. My brother was helping me laugh as we reminisced about days goneby—the way that only siblings can because they go so far back together. At onepoint he started reminding me of the days when our parents could leave us kidsin the car when they ran errands. This is something I never did with mychildren when they were young, but it was common in the late 70’s and early80’s. My brother said, “Do you remember when Dad would leave the three of us(my two olders brothers and me) in the car to go into a store or something andyou’d start crying for him?” I did not…I do not…remember this. And then hesaid, “And we would tell you, ‘Shelley,you better be quiet…or the HIPPIES ARE GONNA GETCHA!!”

Lightbulb.

After all these years and after allthe times I had asked my mom if something had happened to me when I was littlethat would make me experience so much anxiety when I would see men who looked acertain way; after all the confusion and guilt and fear, I finally understoodwhere this all started and why I was affected so strongly.

When the light was shone on thisdark place, I experienced immediate release of all of that fear. (And it is agood thing my brother was on the other end of the phone or he might have beenon the other end of my fist! Ha ha)

The truth was the truth all along—but untilI knew the truth, I couldn’t be free.

And, as a side note, may I just sayhow thankful I am to have found this out before I met Stephen Hendrix—a man whohas had facial hair almost every single day I’ve ever known him. J

· Have you experienced a situation that this story remindsyou of? If so, please share with us in the comments section below.

· What do you think might have happened if I continuedto live without the knowledge about the idea of “hippies” and how the idea was plantedin my mind when I was a toddler?

Have you been keeping up with C4C's #SHINE Series RIGHT HERE?

2012-01-22T15:06:00.001-05:00

If you've missed ANY of the great posts written by women from all over the world who SHINE brightly in our generation, we invite you to scroll down and browse the posts here. We know you'll be greatly inspired and maybe even a little challenged by what these incredible women have to share with us.

And, speaking of sharing, please share this info with those in your real and on-line world ~ Thank you!

Shine On!
Shelley & Your C4C Team

Spring Series Info Here!

2012-01-19T11:08:00.002-05:00

We hope you'll make plans now to join us this spring for our newest series!

Also, please scroll down to the previous post with info about our Blog Series and opportunities for guests to write for C4C!

Have a blessed day, Chicks!

Attention: Writers, Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Guest Blogging opportunity

2012-01-16T08:30:00.001-05:00

Church 4 Chicks if offering, for the first time, an opportunity for you to submit an article for possible publication here on our website and possibly in our written series study guide thingamajig.

Our SPRING 2012 SERIES BEGINS SOON!

If you are interested in submitting a Guest Blog Post of 500 or so words on the theme of living the Christ-life "Wild and Free," please email us at info@church4chicks.com. Please include the following:

1) Word doc with 500 words (give or take) in Times New Roman 12 font

2) An attached headshot (can be a family pic, facebook profile pic, whatever--doesn't have to be fancy)

3) Brief "bio"--tell us a little bit about yourself: who are you, what you like to do in your spare time, do you prefer peanut M&M's or plain, cats or dogs, you know, just those important facts that we all MUST know about you. :-)

4) PLEASE SUBMIT THIS NO LATER THAN FEBRUARY 21st.

Thank you!!

Happy Writing!

YOU ARE GOD’S STAR – SO #SHINE ON!

2012-01-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

Cherisse Stephens

Have you ever sat outside and looked up into theheavens on a clear dark night? Aren’tyou amazed by the stars that shine so brightly even through the darkness? God’s creations of the heavens are sobeautiful, that it leaves me in awe of him and all of his glory. Just as God created the stars to shine in theheavens, he has created you to SHINE in the earth! You are God’s Star!

I love the scripture that tells us that we are the light of the world, a city thatcannot be hidden. No matter whatcomes our way, God has given us the ability to shine through it all. You have been given the power to light up thisworld with God’s glory. How awesome isthat? Once we take on the image of ourLord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are empowered to let our light shine, so thatmen will be drawn to him.

One of my favorite stories in the Bible is that ofEsther. Her story is so inspiringbecause Esther learned how to shine despite the odds that were against her. In the 2^nd chapter of the book ofEsther, the king Ahasuerus decided to select a new queen as his wife. All the virgins of the land were gatheredtogether and began their preparation process before going before the king. Esther who was an orphaned girl being raisedby her relative Mordecai, was selected. In most people’s opinions, she was not suitedto become the bride of a king. I am sure that someone reading this passage hasbeen denied something in their lifetime. How many people have counted you or someone you know out, because intheir minds, you don’t have what it takes to fulfill the assignment or walk inthe role that’s presented to you?

The scripture in Jeremiah 29:11 says the following; “For I know the thoughts that I thinktowards you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give youand expected end.”

God had a plan for Esther’s life and he has a planfor your life as well. You may feel thatyour light is kind of dim right now. Life has thrown you some blows that has literally left you feeling likethere is no way to reignite the light and fire that’s on the inside ofyou. I think of you as the diamond inthe ruff. A diamond in the rough comesout of the dirt in which it was buried and doesn’t seem to have much value andworth. But once it is discovered thatthe rock is a diamond, the process of polishing begins.

Polishing is the process that Esther had to gothrough as well. You see, she was not inany condition to go before the king in the state she was in. She needed to be processed and polishedbefore she would walk into her divine assignment. She was a diamond in the ruff, waiting toshine!

One of my favorite sayings is this, “Don’t judge who I am by where I am rightnow.” Just because I don’t have itall together right now, doesn’t disqualify me from the plans of God. We are a work in progress. God is building character in us daily. I am certain that those around Esther sizedher up and tried to discourage her from going before the king. Even in our Christian walk, there will bethose who will try to snuff out your light and keep you from walking in yourdivine purpose. But you have to bedetermined to shine, no matter what!

Esther had the favor of God on her life. Although she was surrounded by beautiful,wealthy women who came from royalty, she knew that God’s Glory was shining uponher and would bring her favor with the king. That is so powerful! We can usethat same principal today. We must liveknowing that God’s Glory is shining so brightly upon us and because of it; wecan walk into our kingdom assignment with authority.

The scripture says in Esther 2:17 “Andthe king loved Esther above all women, and she obtained grace and favor in hissight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head,and made her queen instead of Vashti.”

Wow, look at the favor of God that was on Esther’slife. She was now the Queen to KingAhasuerus. Her life had taken a turnthat left many in disbelief. I believethat God wants to shift your life and bring that kind of favor to YOU! Esther was now shining brightly! Through all of her scars, disappointments,rejection and hurt, she was chosen to shine brighter than those around her.

God has selected you to shine through it all! You are his special STAR! You have been giventhe gift Shine for him! So embrace yourjourney and hold your head up high! Tellyourself, I am God’s Star and I must…SHINE ON!

AboutThe Author

Cherisse Stephens is an Author, Evangelist, TelevisionHost, Recording Artist, and Producer. She is the founder and CEO of the “God’s Cover-Girls Women’s Conference”and the “Spring Forth Into Destiny Family Conference.” She is the author of the book series entitled“How to Be God’s Cover-Girl” for adults, teens and tweens. To find out more about Cherisse Stephens,visit her website at www.godscovergirls.com and www.cherissestephens.com

Real Life That SHINES! #Shine series

2012-01-13T08:43:00.000-05:00

Women wear many diverse hats and function in as many assorted roles. We are wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, employers, employees and much, much more. Each role comes completewith job descriptions uniquely crafted to outline the myriad tasks required for each position. And whilethere may be some overlaps in the duties and responsibilities, each is distinct and often demands flawless execution. We are expected to SHINE. You know, light up the space, brighten up the environment, expose the mess and clean it up. That’s right, SHINE.

Maybe you never stopped to think about that way. So, let’s take a moment and do just that. Matthew 5:14 -16 admonishes us to shine. It states,

“You are light for the world. A city cannot be hidden when it is located on a hill. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket. Instead, everyone who lights a lamp puts it on a lamp stand. Then its light shines on everyone in the house. In the same way let your light shine in front of people. Then they will see the good that you do and praise your Father in heaven.”

You see, we often list our roles and among them include the fact that we are children of God; however, we are first children of God and our roles are executed from and through that position, and listed among the duties and responsibilities for that job description is that we shine.

So, how do we shine?” Think in terms of an acronym –

S-hare,

H-onor,

I-nfluence,

N-avigate, and

E-nergize.

As Christian women we share who and whose we are. One of the greatest gifts we can give isourselves. We enrich all of our relationships, and the people we relate with every day come to us, love us, and trust us because we bring light to their world. We also shine when we share about whose we are. It is God’s light,illuminating in and through us that attracts others. We share and shed our light by walking as living epistles of the Word of God and extending our reach and the reach of the Kingdom ofGod.

Honor. You cannot truly honor someone without placing them above yourself. When we honor and prefer others needs above our own, and boy do we do that as women, we shine.

Influence. Aswomen, we influence so many people and situations. We bring our God given intuition and wisdom, into the many decisions we must make for our families, friends, and businesses, and when we do that, boy do we shine.

Navigate. Getting one’s self through life is no easy task. Add to the trip a husband, children, and others, and it could become quite a load. That is why the right navigational system, theHoly Spirit,operating through us is essential. He creates light that illuminates our pathways as we direct our families. Thus, we shine.

Energize. Light by nature causes everything it touches to feel warmth. It is also a force that allows vegetation to create self-sustaining energy. That is what we are capable of as godly women. If we infuse the warmth and energy God has given us to fuel those around us,weimpact our households, businesses, communities, and the kingdom. In essence, we Shine!

Carleen interviewing Steven Arterburn for WATC

CARLEEN BROWN’s professional experience is an ideal marriage of her passion for media and education. Carleen brings over ten years of experience in each respective field and her diverse background uniquely positions her to excel in these arenas. Carleen began her career in television at KOTV-6, the CBS affiliate in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she co-produced the state’s only three-hour morning news program. She transitioned from the newsroom to the classroom and began her teaching career in Atlanta teaching middle and high school students and serving as Vice Principal of a private school in Decatur. Carleen found the ideal opportunity to merge her passions - education and media - at Clark Atlanta University where she managed CAU-TV, an educational access station for the City of Atlanta. There taught media courses and ensured that hands-on training opportunities were provided to more than 500 mass media majors in the Division.

In addition, Carleen served as executive producer and hostess of the Station’s first Emmy-award winning, public affairs show, ATL Insider – a program produced by students in partnership with Atlanta’s WB and WXIA-TV. Currently, Carleen is a regular host on WATC-TV 57’s Atlanta Live and a media and education consultant conducting workshops and seminars in areas schools.

#Shine Series at C4C Written Study Guide available

2012-01-11T10:44:00.000-05:00

Here is a sample from the new series' written study guide which can be purchased at our events or downloaded for free at www.church4chicks.com (visit the events page).

Week One

God Said, “Let there be Light”

Day 1: God created light and said that it is good (Gen1)

When I was in high school, I had a sweatshirt I wore ALLthe time. I wore it for three different reasons:

1) My best friend made it for me.

2) It was super duper comfortable; and

3) It had my favorite verse of Scripture on it.

The shirt said this,

Everygood gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Fatherof lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

James 1:17NKJV

This verse, and the whole Bible, reveals to us that there is a God andthat He is the Creator of ALL good things. He created the whole universe out ofnothing but His own imagination. This seemingly impossible belief is foundedupon some incredible faith and upon plenty of scientific evidence to be sure. Iknow there are many who prefer to put their trust in some other belief systemfor how the world began, how mankind showed up, and how we continue to existtoday, but with all my heart and mind, I believe that everything finds itsexistence in the One who has always existed.

· Read Genesis 1:1-4 here:

¹In thebeginning God created heaven and earth.

²The earth was formless andempty, and darkness covered the deep water. The Spirit of God was hovering overthe water.

³Then God said, “Let therebe light!” So there was light. ⁴God saw the light was good. So God separated the light fromthe darkness.

In the beginning, things were dark. God showed up and called Light intoexistence. He declared that light is good. James 1:17 tells us that God is theFather of Lights—the creator, initiator, definer of light. He is the source oflight—and of all good things.

· What does this mean to the one who is grapplingto believe that God is worthy of our trust and faith?

· Circle the word “all” in the last sentence of theparagraph above. What is your response to the reality that God is the giver,the source, of ALL good things?

Read Hebrews 11:1-2 here:

¹Faith assures us of things we expect and convinces us of theexistence of things we cannot see. ²God accepted our ancestors because of their faith. ³Faith convinces us that God created the world through his word.This means what can be seen was made by something that could not be seen.

· What is it that God desires from us?

· This passage reveals, yet again, that God createdsomething out of nothing. Have you ever faced a situation or season in yourlife when it seemed that there were no ingredients for a miracle from God?Describe such a time…

· If Godcan create something out of nothing, then what can we hang on to when we don’tsee the ingredients for His provision or protection?

Prayer Starter for today…

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you that You trulyare the Source of Light and of ALL good things. Help me to see this moreclearly in my own life as I begin this new series and as I seek to be an evenmore effective “lamp” sharing your light with those in my world. In Jesus’Name, Amen.

The Wait is Over!! #Shine begins TONIGHT!!

2012-01-10T08:15:00.001-05:00

Town Center Community Church

1040 Blackwell Road

Marietta, GA

Doors open for "Chick Chat" (Bring your own meal) at 6:15 p.m.

Main Event begins at 7:00 and you'll be on your way by 8:30 p.m.

See you there!!

Let Your Light SHINE! #Shine Series #Giveaway

2012-01-09T08:15:00.005-05:00

Let Your Light Shine from Above, Down, Inside and Out

by Dr. Shannon (Giveaway info at bottom of post)

There is a light of greatness on the inside of us all. I like to think of it as the WELL from which all life flows. I believe it was put in us from the moment that we became God’s big idea and He said, “Let there be light”. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart…” (Jeremiah 1:5 NIV). It was from this light that all existence came into being. Having been made in the image of the Most High God, the Alpha and the Omega, the Creator of the Universe…our light is magnificent, infinite, and divinely creative. It is the very nature of God, and is part of a much bigger plan than us just showing up on planet earth, breathing some air, and then expiring.

Instead, God has a Big Plan known as the “Master Plan” (that’s because He’s the Master J). It’s a brilliant symphony of all the individual Big Plans that He has for each of our lives! It’s harmonic, and powerfully creative and collaborative. When we truly grab hold of the revelation that we are each uniquely a part of something so much bigger than ourselves, we will be compelled to stop playing small. On the contrary, we will play as big as we were designed to play…beautifully and boldly…healthfully and wealth-fully,

Click Picture for more info and to order Dr. Shannon's Book!

We were designed to show up and play BIG, and to reflect the light we’ve been given. As well as to inspire as we are giving! It’s this eternal inspiration that has no expiration.

Taking care of the WELL within us is of vital importance to how our light will shine. This WELL within us is the source of our health and wealth, because it’s His wealth. I refer to it as WELLTH. It manifests as true prosperity in all areas of our lives. It’s prosperity that keeps on giving, growing and glowing.

It’s you at your BEST, regardless of the circumstances. In fact, the light is always brightest in the dark valleys of life, which seem to be inevitable. Above all, remember that your light is already (and always) shining! Nurture your light by loving and caring for your self, no matter where you are or where you think you should be. Your light will shine best when you recognize it, receive it, celebrate it, and care for it. We will always care for that which we value and love. Do you value and love your light?

It’s when we care for it, that we can share it…and let our light shine!

Striving for something that we already possess is the quickest way to dim our light and life. Realizing that you already have the greatness that you seek, because you have the light of the world within you will free you to be all that you can be!

When you care for your self: body, mind and spirit, you allow your light to shine! Full expression of that light and life within you is true WELLTH! When it’s fully expressed from above, down, inside and out…then you are truly WELLTHY.

WELLTHY…is your new HEALTHY!

Giveaway Info: Dr. Shannon has graciously offered to give away ONE FREE COPY of her book to the first person to share this post's link on their own blog, facebook, Twitter, etc. If this is you, please email me a copy of the link (simply copy the URL in your browser and paste into email), along with your name and mailing address to shelley@church4chicks.com Thank you for sharing!

Dr. Shannon has been in the health and fitness industry since 1985 and in private practice since 1995. She also serves on staff at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, providing chiropractic care for patients. Over the years, she has assisted thousands of individuals to live healthier, WELLthier lives.

She is a popular inspirational speaker and inspires people to know their WELLth and prosper in health. She cohosts the dynamic weekly radio talk show, Living Well LIVE, which equips listeners to live their best life. Dr. Shannon is committed to educating people about the dangers of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, and the prevalence of their abuse in our country. She is on a mission to empower Americans to “Just Say KNOW to Drugs" and be the solution by being their best and living a naturally, drug-free life.

She is the founder of the health4life REVOLUTION!, a 12-week fitness opportunity that builds people from the inside, out. With this program she has witnessed hundreds of individuals and corporate bodies transform their “bottom line” in as little as 4 hours a week.

Dr. Shannon believes that she’s a messenger of hope to a world desperately in need of hope and healing. This has led her to do mission work in several areas of India. She is passionate about being a catalyst for change in the lives of the women and children there.

As a wife and mother of three beautiful teenage daughters, she is inspired to be the best she can be, while helping others do the same.

Contact Dr. Shannon at www.drshannonknows.com

The Truth about the Lies #Shine

2012-01-07T08:15:00.002-05:00

Raise your hand if you have ever used the phrases, “When I get my life together, I will ___,” or “When I get all my ducks in a row, I will ____.”

Somewhere along the way we have bought into the pattern of thinking that we have to have life all together before we believe we have anything to offer.

I think we have missed the point of offering altogether.

I have discovered that there are three lies we believe in when it comes to helping others.

Lie #1 – You have to be perfect.

All throughout the bible, God chose the lame, weak, lowest, foolish, uneducated, outcasts, and the rejected to make himself known. The people God chose to use were far from perfect. They were also in the midst of their imperfections when he used them.

I love that Jesus used a Samaritan woman, rejected by her friends and family, to bring a whole town to himself. Jesus did not tell her to wait until she was changed to use her. As soon as their conversation ended, she went out and told the whole town about Jesus.

Lie #2 – Ministry flows from our strengths.

The people who have influenced my life the most are those who have experienced brokenness. What has been most impactful for me are those who offer out of their brokenness. Authentic pain and wounds are powerful to any heart when they are shared.

God says that “his power is made perfect in our weaknesses” not our strengths. Our weaknesses are powerful agents in revealing his light to those who are hurting. Weakness heals.

Lie #3 – You can only help to the extent you’ve been helped.

Henri Nouwen is famous for coining the term “wounded healer.” A wounded healer is one who offers out of their current struggles. A wounded healer is someone who offers in spite of their struggles. The deception of pain is that we can only offer those parts of our path that we have already walked through.

The truth is that everyone is on a journey. Authenticity is inviting. Being real, and even a mess, in the midst of your pain provides freedom for someone else to do the same. Honestly, the thoughts you have today regarding your pain are going to shine light on the path for someone else.

Some of my favorite conversations have started with, “this is where I am.” I can’t tell you how many times my heart has been changed by the authentic risk of someone else.

Authenticity has brought new meaning to the words, “by his wounds we are healed.” There is such power in sharing our wounds. Wounds heal.

We are always influencing, especially through our times of brokenness. The mess of your heart just might be the perfect light that someone else needs for theirs.

Are you willing to be a Wounded Healer?

Tracee Persiko is a speaker and writer with a master’s in Professional Counseling. She cares deeply about the heart and story of other people. When it comes to areas of passion, Tracee enjoys speaking on topics including: leadership development, cultivating character, second mile living, identity in Christ, and carrying the weight of your influence well. Her heart is all about empowering others to believe different and live different.

#SHINE in 2012!

2012-01-06T08:15:00.000-05:00

SHINE in 2012

by Shandel Slaten

Each year I take time to reflect and plan for the New Year. This year finds me in Las Vegas where I have a view of the city and let’s just say SHINE is an under statement! At night, the place becomes magical all because of the lights. Truth is, if there were to be a power outage it would simply be a miserable desert.

Now that the holidays are over, its time to put away the Christmas lights, candles, and sparkly decorations that symbolize to us the LIGHT of the World’s birthday. They remind us that our hearts were dark and hopeless until He appeared and our soul, stunned by His glory, felt its worth. It is Jesus that brought light to our hearts and saved them. Subsequently, the radiance of Christ’s glory is so majestic it shines through us and lights up the world.

You see, dear sisters, when we allow Jesus to shine through us we attract other dark souls to His healing light. When we are in community together we maximize our impact by providing a city of refuge for the needy dark heart. We become a stream in the desert and a beacon of hope to the hurting.

With that said, the Life Coach in me needs to provide an opportunity for action. What are some things we can do to prepare our hearts to be image bearers of the King of Kings?

Here are 5 things S.H.I.N.E. ways to challenge your heart in 2012

Simplify Everything – Seriously. Look at your commitments, every room in your house, and your entire life. What is cluttering your life and keeping you so preoccupied that you don't shine? Most of us are so scattered we’re not sure where we would shine if we could. Let there light! At least, let there be room and air for that light to shine through you.

Have boundaries – We all say YES to too many things so we end up saying NO the most important things. Learn to say NO so you can say YES to…

Intimacy with Jesus – #1objective! Create the time. Guard the time. It takes time to hear from the lover of your soul. You will have to say NO to many things so you can have time for HIM.

No Fear – Say no to the fear of man and yes to fearing God alone.

Encourage Your Sisters – Be an encourager with your words and actions.

We all need to be encouraged. We were all created with unique purposes and we need to encourage each other to be authentic, be who God designed us to be. The fascinating part of this Las Vegas light scene is noticing all the different types of lights: strobe lights, soft lights, spot lights, twinkle lights, warning lights and street lights. We too are fascinating lights that shine in our own unique way in the darkness of this world.

Let Your Light Shine, Chicks. He has a beautiful and wonderful plan for you in 2012!

Shandel Slaten is an executive coach with a proven track record of assisting business owners and professionals realize their personal and professional goals. She is a national speaker and the author of Clarity: Focusing on What Matters as well as the lead female teacher at Mars Hill Church in Downtown Seattle. You can follow her blog or the Ask Shandel podcast. Catch her musing on twitter and facebook.

Shandel Slaten, MCC

twitter: www.twitter.com/shandel

web: www.truelifecoaching.com

blog: www.truelifeinc.com

facebook: www.facebook.com/truelifeinc

Finding Radiance in a World of Shame #Shine

2012-01-05T08:15:00.002-05:00

I remember walking into church one Sunday two years ago and someone looked at me and said, "You are glowing." I thought he was crazy really!

He said, "No, there's something different about you. There's light in your eyes."

I didn't feel different. My clothes weren't new. My hair was the same. But the inside had changed.

It was Jesus.

Though I had been a Christian for a few years, something was missing. I had darkness inside me that I kept tucked away for safekeeping. Even though the darkness was destroying me, it was safe.

Shame was safe. Brokenness was comfortable. Distrust of others had become routine. Though everything in me wanted to change, wanted to let go, I had created a feeling of being content with the crazy safety net I had built around my heart.

God was calling me for something bigger. I drowned out His voice with negative self-talk, followed by food, and then added another dose of hurtful words to my wounds. You're not good enough for that job. She doesn't really want to be your friend. You'll never amount to anything. Why don't you just give up now?

I didn't deserve to be called by God.

Somehow being sexually abused was my fault. No one, not even God, could love me. My father's choice to be an alcoholic was my fault. What if I could have done something different? If only I could have been better, men wouldn't have hurt me. If only I could have tried harder to make everyone happy.

When you reach a level of brokenness and the only way you can go is up, you're right where you need to be. Right where God can finally get you to listen. That's how it was for me anyway.

I reached a bottom and the things that had protected me, or so I thought, had literally destroyed me. But only temporarily.

I came to a point of surrender. I unclenched my fists, waved the white flag and said, "God, you win! I'm yours."

He gave me these words:

Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame." Psalm 34:5

Shame. Guilt. Pride. Day by day God stripped those things away. Layer by layer He removed the pieces of brokenness.

Radiance. That's what my friend saw that day. It was God's radiant light shining in me from knowing who I am in Christ. From the confidence of knowing I am the apple of His eye. From the assurance of knowing that He will never leave me.

What are you holding onto today that God is reaching out for? What fear is keeping you from surrendering to His call for you?

Let it go. Trust. Look up. Radiance is waiting for you.

Sundi Jo is a writer, speaker, and social media consultant, making her home in Branson, Missouri. You’ll either find her engulfed in the social media world, spending time with family and friends, running, hanging out in a pair of jeans, t-shirt, and flip flops, or writing for the Kingdom. You can also find her on Twitter and Facebook.

I caught the shine from my POW Dad #Shine

2012-01-03T08:15:00.005-05:00

Candie and Shelley

Happy New Year!

I am thrilled to introduce you to my friend, Candie Blankman. I met Candie through our mutual friend, Ken Davis, who just happens to also be Candie's brother. Candie was my small group leader/coach at the SCORRE Conference in Vail, CO this past October. I knew right away that I liked her! You'll be touched, inspired, challenged, and moved by this tender post. And I know you'll want to read the whole story for yourself, so we've teamed up to include a giveaway of Candie's new book to a few fortunate readers! Yay!! (Details below.)

I Caught the Shine from my POW Dad

We were poor. We lived 50 miles from nowhere. I was small and a late developer. I had big teeth and board straight hair. I wasn’t much to look at. I was the fourth of five children. It would be another 13 years before the fifth one arrived so I was, for all practical purposes, the runt of the litter. I think my mom was pretty tired by the time I came around. We moved when I was 11. It was a small town really—population 8,000—but for me it was a big city. We went from dirt poor to marginally lower middle class somehow. And somehow, in spite of all the circumstantial barriers, I learned to shine. How did this happen? I caught the shine.

Find this book on Amazon now

My father was a survivor. He enlisted in the Army when he was nineteen years old and deployed to the Philippine Islands. Fifteen months later Pearl Harbor was bombed and the United States was plunged into WWII. In the Japanese effort to have hegemony over the Pacific they launched a full scale assault on the Philippine Islands.

On April 9, 1942, when my father was just sixteen days past his 21^st birthday, he became a prisoner of war. For the next three and a half years, every moment of every day, my father along with thousands of others fought for their lives. They endured deprivation and brutality beyond description. My father survived the Bataan Death March, two death camps, a prison death ward, a death ship (called Hell Ships), and a death mine. My father survived all of this. But he more than survived. He thrived. My father was a person of faith whose light shown wherever he went. He lit up faces, he lit up rooms, he lit up lives.

My father, who suffered so much taught me what it means to let your light shine. He was not an educated man but he was an intelligent man and a jack-of-all-trades handyman. He could fix anything. And he used his ability to fix anything, not to make money, but to help others. Family, friends, neighbors, strangers could call on him and he would arrive with a smile on his face and go to work. The light shown through his helpful hands, but my father also used every opportunity to share the good news of God’s love with everyone. A simple verse of scripture, a short prayer, a word of testimony from his own life, somehow, dad would find a way to shine the light.

When we were teenagers and brought friends home we knew two things. First, we knew Dad would make them feel very much at home. He was Mr. Hospitality. Second, we knew there was a better than even chance that they would go fishing with dad—in the summer on the pontoon and in the winter in the ice house. There they were captive audiences. They would get a decent lesson in fishing (though rarely catch any fish) but they would also hear about how very much God loved them. Dad let his light shine no matter the season.

At work he was mocked for his testimony and resented for his hard work ethic. Some co-workers would spread their arms out wide making a cross when they passed my father. They did it in derision. My father saw it as a compliment. And they would complain that he made them look bad because he found things to do while monitoring the dials for heating and cooling instead of just sitting all day.

One of the times I witnessed my father’s light shine most brightly was when I was about twelve years old. He brought a young Japanese couple home for dinner. Tommy and Joyce Tanamori shared a meal with us. Then my father and Tommy sat in our living room and shared their mutual faith in Christ and prayed together. At the time I did not realize what a bright light this was. It would be almost 20 years later when I would learn about what my father suffered at the hands of the Japanese. Yet, he extended hospitality and love to this Japanese couple. I learned to let my light shine from the best.

My father was diagnosed with Alzhiemers disease in 1999. It progressed rapidly. In 2001 Dad and Mom visited us. We were living in Chicago at the time. Dad and I worked on a project together refinishing an old trunk but in the middle of our work he forgot who I was. It was painful. He also was no longer able to judge his surroundings well. This fact became clear when we took him to see the Billy Graham Center for Evangelism on the Wheat College Campus. As we were coming out after touring the center, we realized Dad was not with us. We turned around to go back and find him and as we did he was coming out of the building with the biggest grin on his face. He commenced to tell us that he had just witnessed to the two women at the front reception desk. . . of the Billy Graham Center for Evangelism! His mind was not fully engaged but his light was still shining very brightly!

In deed as well as word the light of Christ shined even through the pain and suffering he experienced. I was an average little girl who grew up poor and plain. But, as a result of my father’s example I learned to let my light shine, too.

In 2010 I traveled to the Philippine Islands and Japan to retrace my father’s footsteps as a prisoner of war. I began painting, drawing and writing about this experience. Through this journey I expected to learn much about my father’s life. What I did not expect was to learn so much about myself. The light of Christ shining through him left a huge imprint on me. The person and pastor that I am today was significantly shaped by what he experienced and how he lived out his faith. Forged By War: A daughter shaped by a WWII POW Story is a testament to this light.

Candie has shared some really powerful, yet tender, stories about her amazing father. What part of her story most resonated with your heart and why?

Candie's father allowed the light of Christ to shine with him in the good times and in the times that were so horrible, most of us could not imagine. His story reveals that he allowed the light of Christ to have its way in his life. How can you, taking this example, allow Jesus more freedom to allow His light to shine through you in your present circumstances?

Candie Blankman: Born and raised in Minnesota now gratefully settled in Southern California. Wife, mom, restaurant manager, public school teacher, bible teacher, speaker, now pastor and beginning writer and painter. Candie has been married 35 years and together, she and her husband have three great children. She is also a Presbyterian Pastor in Downey, CA. In her own words, "I am pastor/head of staff for a wonderful multicultural congregation in Downey. I was a pastor in Chicago for seven years before that. I love helping people and assisting them in connecting with their Creator."

Don't miss Candie's book:

Click pic to get ordering info*

Forged by War: A Daughter Shaped by a WWII POW Story

Author Candie Blankman is offering the FIRST 10 readers who share this post a free, autographed copy of her book!! **UPDATE** ALL 10 FREEBIES HAVE BEEN AWARDED! Thank you for posting the link!**

You can still purchase your copy at a great price on Amazon and Kindle!

Thank you for spreading the word about our "SHINE" Series by posting the links to your blogs, Facebook pages, Twitter, Google+, etc.

* Also available for Kindle readers here

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.005-05:00

from all your pals at

May 2012 find us all shining the light and love of Christ Jesus more than ever before!

Blog Party posts resume January 3rd~

don't miss this one!

The end of 2011 already?!*

2011-12-31T10:15:00.002-05:00

Dear friends of C4C,

It's the most wonderful time of the year--again already! It seems that the arrival and departure of Christmas gets here sooner and leaves us sooner with every passing year. It is so hard to believe that we are ending our 4th year of ministry and nearing the corner which opens up our 5th year of Creating and Cultivating Environments of Grace for Women of ALL Ages.

As we look at where we have been and where we are going, we are also looking at where we are today. Recently, Pastor Andy Stanley shared how the 5 campuses of Northpoint Churches (including the one my family and I attend) have given over $2,000,000 to local charities and non-profit organizations PLUS over 15,000 service hours have been committed to by church members willing to volunteer and over 40 tons of food has been donated to feed hungry families. It is exciting to be a small part of this incredible effort--to BE the Church, united to shine the Light of Christ in our communities and in our world.

C4C works with other non-profits to help engage women in
ministering to the needs of others in their communities

But then Andy posed a question, "How long did it actually take us to do all of this?" (The first $1 million came in within a few hours!) So the question was specifically, "How long did it take us to raise a million dollars in less than a day?" The answer: "Sixteen years." You see, what really made all of this possible--the generosity, the excitement to give, the enthusiasm of serving for no financial gain, the joy of feeding strangers--all of this is possible because of those who were faithful to give and serve and donate for the past sixteen plus years. People who embraced the vision of their leader and put their treasure where their mouths were. I'm so thankful they gave! I'm honored to be even a small part of it in this season in my life.

Church 4 Chicks is in the midst of exciting days. We are women (and yes, a few men, too) with a vision to reach women of all ages with the Good News of Jesus Christ which transforms and redeems lives and gives purpose and meaning and hope to life today with the promise of eternal life to come. We believe that God's Word has power and that when God's Word is invested in the lives of people, in an environment that welcomes any and all who will come with open arms, Change Happens! It is incredible to watch generations coming together for authentic relationship with one another on a regular basis and to watch these relationships bloom and blossom--cross denominationally, cross culturally, and cross generationally.

C4C is intentional in our mission to be a "welcome mat"
to a growing relationship
with Jesus Christ to women of all generations!

With many testimonies of changed lives already on our ministry "resume," we look forward to even greater intentionality to minister effectively in the coming year and the years to come. Just this past year we were able to go on mission to take the message of grace and identity as "Church 4 Chicks" to Jamaica, Alaska and other parts of the US. In 2012, we have been invited back to some of these places, including Alaska, where we plan to host two conferences instead of one, and we have also been invited to lead a women's conference in Kiev, Ukraine. God is moving and we desire nothing more and nothing less than to stay in step with His Spirit.

But as you probably picked up on by now, this isn't something we can do alone. And it isn't cost-free for us to make any of this happen. We have been really fortunate that God has brought a few individuals and churches alongside of us who have captured the vision of Church 4 Chicks and have offered their services or location(s) at either minimal cost or at no charge. We are fortunate that there are some very faithful, reliable givers. We are truly thankful! But even as we strive to be the best stewards of what God has entrusted to us, the fact remains that in order to create these kinds of environments for women and sometimes to go where they are when they can't come to us, it takes money and resources. The bottom line: it takes all of us!

You have not because you ask not...

I wanted to come to you and let you all know that we have an immediate need of about $5,000.00. This seems like an impossible amount to me. But, I have a feeling that when Andy Stanley challenged all of us at Northpoint a few weeks ago to give $1,000,000 over 6 weeks or so, he couldn't have imagined that the church would do that and then more than double it in less than 3 weeks! So that is why I'm coming to you all now. Who knows how God might want to use this in all of our lives--to humble us, to build our faith, to encourage us that He indeed is with us and that so are others from around the world who would like to see more C4C's popping up...perhaps even their part of the world.

There are two ways you can give your tax deductible gift:

1) You can simply write and mail a check or money order to Church 4 Chicks, inc. PO Box 1447 Woodstock, GA 30188

2) You can give your gift online (although a portion of your donation will go to pay the fee for this service and does not go to C4C). Simply click here to go to our website to make your donation or purchase your Samaritan Saver Card (fundraiser).

I would also like to ask you to consider becoming part of "10x10" for 2012. This is what we are praying for:

10 People who will commit to give $100 per month.
100 People who will commit to give $10 per month.

Of course if God lays something different on your heart, then of course, we won't turn you down! :-)

More than anything, and I mean this sincerely, my hope is just that we will all do whatever the Spirit leads us to do as it pertains to His activity in our world today.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading this in its entirety and for prayerfully considering what God might want you to do in response.

Because He First Loved me,

Shelley Hendrix
for the Church 4 Chicks Team

*Post edited and reposted from earlier publishing date.

You are the Light of the World! #Shine

2011-12-30T08:15:00.002-05:00

Matthew 5:14-16

14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.

I love Christmas! My heart warms at just the thought of decorations, festive food, fun with family and friends and special traditions. My husband and I started a Christmas tradition when my oldest was still a baby. We wanted him to understand that Christ is the reason we celebrate so big this time of year. Now, 7 years later, our four kids are always anxious to start our nights around the tree.

Each night, beginning after Thanksgiving, my family sits around the Christmas tree to talk about what Christ means to us as a family. On some nights the kids take turns telling the Christmas story, other nights it’s a fun Q & A quiz and sometimes we simply share from our hearts. Then, we break into a loud and enthusiastic rendition of “Jingle Bells”. Don’t judge our song of choice! We conclude with everyone touching a light and saying, “Jesus is the light of the world” before we pray. It’s a precious time for my family.

Imagine if I kept my Christmas tree hidden under a blanket, only unveiling its beauty while I was alone. I would see the beautiful lights and décor but my family would simply be full of questions wondering what the tree was all about. Sadly, many of us have been guilty of enjoying God’s light while hiding it from others.

Friends, as followers of Christ, we have the greatest light to share with the world. We miss an incredible opportunity when we hide His light, keeping it only for ourselves. Let’s be committed to shine His light bright at anytime, wherever we go, to whomever we see. Let’s be a ray of hope for others who need God’s love, His redemption, His grace, His mercy and His presence. Don’t discount the power of your smile, your encouraging word, your example…you are an extension of God’s light! Shine bright, chicks, shine bright!

by Tiffany Cooper

About Tiffany	I live each day enjoying God's abundant blessings...my hubby of 13 years and our 4 sweet blessings...Cale, Cade, Caris and Case. Although it can sound cliche at times, I am living a life more amazing than I dreamed. I love my life.

Contact Information

Screen Name	tiffanycooper(AIM)

Website	http://twitter.com/#!/tiffany_cooper http://www.herbertcooper.com http://www.peopleschurch.tv http://leadingandlovingit.com

Facebook	http://facebook.com/tiffanystime

Shine Brighter than the Brightest Star! #Shine

2011-12-29T08:15:00.003-05:00

Hello Girlfriends!

I have a confession to make. I have flaws.

One of my character imperfections shows up in how I lose things. Rarely have I lost things at work or my children’s things- just my stuff. I have lost my keys, my wallet, my mind (I’m kidding, but not kidding) all in the same week once. It’s an interesting paradox because I was raised to present as “together” at all times, but on the inside, picture me with my bangs disheveled, make up slightly smeared and my breathing labored. When a prophet shared that I was being called into ministry in 2010, I honestly chuckled and rolled my eyes on the inside. I was newly divorced and in a long distance relationship with my two young boys. My life was a mess…

Got mess?

We all have our stories with our mess. I believe it is in those moments when we are our messiest, that God starts our healing journey to clean us up and calls us to SHINE and help others. I was called to SHINE through a women’s ministry, Girlfriends Pray, during one of my darkest hours. My light was activated as I served and I would SHINE as I shared my gift to plan events for other women. Many of these women were hurting and reconnected with God at these events. (I too was healed at a Girlfriends Pray event-thank God that those ladies said YES to SHINING!)

Through my SHINE and connection to God, I could finally see my way out of my mess (Psalms 119:105) and help others at the same time. God uses our SHINE to literally lift a sisterfriend out of darkness into the light which is the love of our Father. I volunteered to help with ONE local Girlfriends Pray event and God increased by territory (1 Chronicles 4:9-1) and made me the International Events Director for the ministry! He trusts me to SHINE by planning events to help heal others and planning these events helps heal me. Just say yes, show up, and serve- just as you are.

I learned a couple of years ago that God is as you. I interpreted that to mean that God shows up to others just as you are today. Someone is counting on you to SHINE to meet our Father and be healed- today! They see God in you as you SHINE and that gives them hope! God’s light in you accentuates your strengths, and as you SHINE your flaws seem to “exit stage right”. What we see as our mess and flaws are often God’s “entrances” for us to minister to others and minister to ourselves. As I SHINE, there’s an accountability to read His Word and pray, so I grow because I want to represent God well. My gift and SHINE is not all about me, but I am kept close to God as I help others with my gift and SHINE. It’s a win-win! So, TURN IT UP! SHINE Brighter than the Brightest Star!

A girlfriend is waiting on your gift….

About Girlfriends Pray
Girlfriends Pray is one of the fastest growing ministries designed to encourage, inspire, motivate
and empower women through prayer. Our mission is to get more women closer to God through prayer and the vision is 1 million women united around the world. We accomplish this through our daily prayer calls and other virtual and live initiatives to include Girlfriends In The Word, Girlfriends Pray EmpowerStudy, Girlfriends Pray Global, Amigas Pray, Girlfriends Pray Live, Girlfriends Pray TV and Girlfriends Pray Real Talk which is designed to address the mental health and well-being of women. In less than one year the Ministry received unbelievable favor that began with the launch of a national tour "Girlfriends Pray Big Hat" followed by a NAACP Award for Faith-Based Community Outreach, hosted a press conference on Capitol Hill with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Pediatric HIV/AIDS Care, Inc., given an ongoing television segment with ABC WMAR Channel "Grace and
Glory", a partnership with Carmelo Anthony Foundation, an invitation to participate in one of the largest foreign missions initiatives with other ministers and artists in collaboration with Praise Fest
Ministries and nominated for White House Council Team on Faith-Based and Neighborhood

Partnerships.

At a Big Hat event with GP

Tomiko Logan currently serves God through Girlfriends Pray as the International Events Director. Additionally, Tomiko is the host of Girlfriends Pray Real Talk and Assistant to the Founder of Girlfriends Pray, Dee Marshall. Tomiko is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in which she serves as a Clinical Therapist to treat the mental health needs of children and families within the foster care system in Georgia. Tomiko is the very proud mother of two boys, Donovan and Bryson. Tomiko can be reached at tomiko@girlfriendspray.org.

Hide it under a bushel? NO! I'm gonna let it SHINE!

2011-12-27T08:15:00.000-05:00

Looking back, I wish that letting my light shine were as easy as I had expected it to be when we transplanted our lives to Amsterdam almost six years ago.

In Matthew 5:14-16, makes it seem so simple: “a city on hill cannot be hidden…put a light on its stand” and “let your light shine.” Upon moving here, I had to ask myself “if it is really this simple, why is my lamp not shedding pure light in the dark around us?”

So why are our lights not shining? What keeps that pure light within us from illuminating the darkness?

Perhaps we have baskets covering our lamps after all. If this is the case, how can we remove those things that conceal the light within? The writer of the book of Hebrews instructs us in chapter twelve to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race that marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith”. Later in the same chapter, he illustrates that discipline is a natural expression of a father’s relationship with his child. Likewise, as children of the Heavenly Father, he disciplines us in order to share in His holiness and to produce a harvest of righteousness and peace. In other words, as we grow in our relationship with our Father, trusting Him through obedience to His Word, He cleanses our lives and removes those “baskets” that have covered His light within us. While painful discipline and perseverance cannot be removed from this process, what a beautiful promise that we may share in God’s Holiness and experience a harvest of righteousness and peace. How bright must be that lamp, giving light to everyone in the house!

Another reason that our lights may not be illuminating the darkness is simply because we are not taking them into dark places. Too often, we content ourselves to remain in the company and security of other light-giving lamps. This was a hard lesson for me to learn on arriving in Amsterdam. I’m ashamed to confess that I didn’t even know how to truly befriend non-believers or converse with other women who didn’t share my faith. The church has an essential role in reaching the lost but we cannot forget the example that Christ personally set before us. Even though Jesus regularly taught in the synagogues, He chose to minister among the masses, to dine with sinners in their homes, to disciple a tax collector and to converse with the Samaritan adulteress woman one day by the well. No matter where you live, there will be people around you who will never enter a church but would appreciate meeting someone for a coffee and a listening ear. There are women who may not ever accept an invitation to a women’s conference, but when they get sick or have lost a loved one, they will readily accept a hot meal. Meet them in their dark places and let your light shine.

Who does God bring to your mind as you read Katy's challenge to meet women in their worlds and let your light shine?

Have you found creative ways to allow Christ's light to shine through you to others who may not be interested in a relationship with Him? How can we share His light without blinding people with it?

About Katy Darnell...in her own words:

I am a Georgia girl married to the love of my life and we have served as church-planters in Amsterdam, The Netherlands since 2006. Our oldest son was 6 months old when we moved here and the greatest surprises ever, our twins, were born here almost 4 years ago. We bike everywhere, freeze most of the year and are thankful everyday that God allows us to be here!

#Shine Series Continues tomorrow!

2011-12-26T14:43:00.000-05:00

We will return to our Shine Blog Series beginning December 27 at 8:15 a.m.

If you've missed any of the previous posts, this would be a great time to catch up!

Church 4 Chicks "Shine!" Series begins at

Town Center Community Church in Marietta, GA

January 10, 2012 at 7:00 P.M.

Get all the details at

www.church4chicks.com

Blessings!!

Merry Christmas from Church 4 Chicks!

2011-12-23T08:15:00.002-05:00

Merry, Merry Christmas to you and yours from all of us at

We have so much to be thankful for...

so much to celebrate...

so much reason to hope...

so much purpose to let our own lights shine...

and all because a baby was born!

We Love, We Hope, We Celebrate, We Shine....

Because He First Loved us,

Your Church 4 Chicks Team

We will take a few days off of the Blog Party to enjoy the Holy-Day celebrations with our families and friends. We invite you to come on back to the party resuming December 28, 2011.

What is the purpose of letting our light #Shine?

2011-12-21T08:15:00.002-05:00

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

What is the purpose of letting our light shine'? To bring the Father honor and praise. Sounds simple enough, right?

Growing up, I heard this passage repeated so frequently that I could quote it in my sleep (which is actually a good thing). However, when the reality of ''the challenge of living life' started to take it's toll, the significance of this passage really began to seep in.

Whenever we are in a situation and don't know what to do, it never hurts to look toward Jesus! As a matter of fact, it is the best thing to do. That's right dear friends--our humble Savior and the One and Only sacrificial Lamb. He lived out these verses (Matthew 5:14-16) so purely that His life epitomizes them. There has never been, nor will there ever be One again Who, though He endured unimaginable hardship and ultimately died unjustly in an unthinkable manner, continually radiated God's glory drawing man to worship and praise the Father.

At times it is so easy to praise our Creator and 'shine' for Him--when He has given us a break from life's many curve balls, or even when the Lord has answered that prayer we've brought before Him countless times with a "yes." Rejoice! There is nothing wrong with that--we should relish the joy He has given us and soak up those sweet moments of happiness while giving Him credit for what He has done! There are numerous Psalms about "praise" and Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us that "there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…"

Nevertheless, there are seasons we walk through when, quite honestly, all is not well and it's hard enough to take it second by second, forget day by day. The beauty of this is that it is in moments (and seasons) like these, we have the opportunity to let our full dependency rest on Him. When we do this, the pressure is off of us (*phew*--sigh of relief), because when we are finally open to His results, He shines through us (and when His light is present, boy does it ever radiate)! It doesn't matter if we feel it or not--our precious heavenly Father is there.

Jesus was the expert for putting this into practice during His short time on earth. He was entirely dependent on His Father, in Whom He had no question regarding His faithfulness. …And look, Jesus was the brightest shining Light of all!

Shining our light is not about feeling or emotion, good days or rotten days, rather our hope being in the One who saved us from the pit. Because of this hope we have been given, we can "…hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:23) That alone is reason enough to continue onward everyday as we let Him radiate through us! Shine on!

Who do you know that lets her light shine brightly for others?

How does she do this?

A native of Metro-Atlanta, Danielle Hendrix is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design and is a graphic designer for Ecce Design Studio.

www.eccedesignstudio.com

She is also the graphics designer for Church 4 Chicks and has designed and developed all of our newest designs!

A light to children who only know darkness #Shine

2011-12-19T08:15:00.001-05:00

Have you ever looked into eyes that seem hollow, dark and overwhelmingly sad? Have you seen that look in the eyes of a child? I have, replayed over and over again at our camps for kids in foster care. These are the eyes of a child that has experienced abuse, many times by the hands of someone that is supposed to love them more than anyone else. This is a look of rejection, fear, loneliness, anxiety and hopelessness.

How do you break through a heart that has been shut down, one that refuses to trust because everyone in their life has let them down? Truth is, we can’t do it. It’s an impossible task. However, there is One that’s been there, One that knows how it feels to be rejected and beaten by those that were supposed to love Him the most. He is the only One that can truly empathize with these kids. It’s Christ, and He is the One that is a Father to the Fatherless (Psalm 68:5-6) and calls us to minister to the orphan and the widow (James 1:27).

It is our desire as a ministry to start a relationship with each child through a camp setting. We have fun together, and lay a foundation for them to know that they are loved, valued and special. No, they are not worthless, bad or unwanted. The God of the Universe created them; He knows the number of hairs on their head and had a plan for their life even before they were born … an awesome plan designed just for them.

We continue as they age out of our Royal Family Kids’ Camp at the age of 12 to teach them, through Xtreme Life, the skills they need in order to be successful in their interpersonal relationships. We teach them what their particular gifts and abilities are and how to use them effectively. All the while, we continue to teach them that God is always with them and loves them unconditionally. Our goal, especially through our mentoring program, One 4 Life, is to give them the support they need so they will not feel alone and will have someone that they can count on throughout their life.

Ultimately, we desire to be light in the darkness. For most of these kids, this darkness is all they have ever known in their short lives. We want to shine the light of Jesus so these kids will know that there is hope, that they don’t have to stay in darkness, that there is more to life than hurt, pain, and sadness and that they don’t have to repeat the cycle of abuse that they have experienced. And in the end, we pray that our lives and the lives of each one of these precious kids, will result in praise to our God.

“To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness, instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.” Isaiah 61:3

Letting our lights shine begins first with a relationship with Jesus Christ--He is the source of the very light He wants us to shine into the darkness. Do you know Him?

If you know this Jesus, then you are already full of the very Light this world most needs to see--not just a light to look at, but a light that helps others see--who they are, where they're going, what is happening around them... How can we be intentional to become even more effective "lamps" to make the Light of the world known and seen in our lives?

For the past 14 years, Tasha Whitener has served children in various ministries and programs. She was on staff at First Baptist Woodstock in the Children’s Ministry for 11 years, which included serving as Director of ongoing programs such as Sunday school, Awana and Special Events. She also served as a CPS case worker with the Department of Family and Children’s Services in Georgia. Since 2008, she has been the Director of the Woodstock Royal Family Kids’ Camp (a week-long camp for abused and neglected children ages 7-11). She is currently the Founder and Executive Director of KidS³, Inc., a non-profit organization that serves children/youth in foster care.

Ministry Description

KidS³ was founded in 2009 by Tasha and her husband, Doug, to build on the foundation of Royal Family Kids’ Camp. They saw the need to continue their work with these kids as they graduate from RFKC and equip them with the skills and support that are necessary for their success as they progress through their teenage years. This is accomplished through week-long and weekend overnight camps, a mentoring program, and community events. During these programs, they are taught their value and self-worth, character and team-building, budgeting, job skills and work ethic, leadership training and are then engaged in service projects according to their area of interest. All of the children/youth they serve are in foster care, group homes or state approved care and range from 7 to 18 years old. Our passion is to connect these youth with a mentor/advocate that will remain a consistent factor in their lives during their time with KidS³ and beyond. It is critical that these youth have the support and life skills they need as they “age-out” of the system and enter into adulthood.

Ultimately, their vision is to establish a strong support system and effective services for youth in state care that will result in the development of men & women of character and integrity, equipped with the necessary job skills in their area of interest and giftedness, engaged in service to the community, and fulfilling God’s purpose for their life.

This Chick Shines from the Inside!! #Shine

2011-12-17T08:15:00.006-05:00

Mother Teresa told Dr. Lori Salierno that if she wanted to make a real difference with her life, she should "find a dark place and be a light there." (Refer to post from 12/8.) Some of us have tried so hard for so long to "be a light" to others; but I found in my own life that far too often, in my own desire and efforts to shine, I was going about it all the wrong way. Rather than finding myself energized by shining, I was becoming more and more depleted by all of my "good works" that I had hoped were glorifying God and drawing others to Himself.

Nothing ever felt like enough.

It wasn't until I began to understand more fully that the Gospel message wasn't first and foremost about what I needed to do to earn God's favor (i.e. good works to make Him look good), but was truly founded upon what God had already done for me. When He saved me, He not only forgave me of all the things I had done and not done that missed His mark of complete perfection; but He also placed His own light into my life. (See 2 Corinthians 4)

Where there had only been darkness, He spoke and light entered in.

What's our motivation?

If we spin our own wheels trying to make our lights shine for God, even with the greatest of intentions, we will find that light burning out rather than burning brightly for the long haul. You don't have to look far or for very long to find this to be true among so many professing Christians. It. Is. Exhausting!!

The difference for me came when I began to understand more clearly that God's desire is for me to accept by faith that He has placed HIS light inside of my frail, human life. And that as I surrender to Him in trust, I am allowing that beautiful light to shine where it wills...God chooses the ways in which He desires to let my life shine for Him. He initiates it. He sustains it.

I'll share more on this in a later post, but for now, I wonder if you can identify with what I experienced in my own life.

Have you found yourself at any time trying to let your light shine by striving hard to please God in order to glorify Him?

Why do you think He is more interested in us learning to allow His light to shine through us?

Make sure to come back on Dec 19 for a post written by Tasha Whitener. Together with her husband, Doug, Tasha shines her light to children in the foster care system in her community. You'll be touched and challenged by what she shares. See you back here on Monday!

True Beauty that Shines #Shine

2011-12-15T08:15:00.003-05:00

“People are like stained glass windows – the true beauty can be seen only when there is light within.”

~Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

All women should do self-care. Why? Because others are drawn to a woman who shines! People take notice when someone is rested, pleasant, has good boundaries, stops people-pleasing, and learns to say no so that she can say yes to what God really wants. People want to be with a woman who feels good because she put herself on the list. She takes time to eat right, exercise, and finds pleasure in small things. When Jesus told people to love others as they love themselves, he was assuming people would love themselves. As a counselor, I meet so many women who don’t love themselves by taking time for self-care. Hey Church 4 Chicks, would you stop what you’re doing and write down one thing you’re going to do for yourself today.

It is nice to know that self-care doesn’t have to be radical or expensive. History and research has shown that when the economy goes into a recession or a depression, the sale of lipstick increases. The Lipstick Effect is a term coined after the Great Depression, when sales of cosmetics rose in the four years from 1929 to 1933. People continue to spend money on small luxuries during times of economic or emotional stress to buoy their spirits. The same thing happened after the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Lipstick sales doubled.

Not everyone enjoys the lift that lipstick brings, but there are small items you can buy that will give you a truckload of happiness. Maybe it's a pretty journal or a beautiful pen. Maybe it's a pink frilly blouse that makes you feel ultra-feminine, or perhaps it's a pumpkin-caramel latte that goes down warm and comforting. Even if the item is small, the fact that you took time to buy and enjoy it, affirms your worth to yourself. Perhaps you stop to sip some tea and read your favorite book for 15 minutes. Or take a quiet walk. Doing something simple for yourself has the capacity to change your life in a big way. Thomas Merton said, “Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance and order and rhythm and harmony.”

What about you? Do you struggle to take care of yourself? If so, what causes this struggle for you?

If you have found ways to maintain your own balance and well-being, do tell! Share your secrets for making self-care a priority.

Lucille is working on a book about self-care for Abingdon Press. She and her husband are celebrating 25 years of marriage and are experiencing the "empty nest." She has a private counseling practice in Littleton, Colorado and teaches psychology courses at Colorado Christian University. She writes on her own blog http://blog.rumorsofglory.com/ and for the http://wordservewatercooler.com/

You can also connect with Lucille on

Facebook and Twitter

Is it ever too late to let your light shine? #Shine

2011-12-13T08:15:00.001-05:00

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you” Isaiah 60:1.

Did you ever wonder when “your light” will begin to shine? Do you sometimes feel as though your light was darkened years ago? We live in a world full of dark corners, twists, and turns. Surrounded by constant societal messages of improving one's self, how to accumulate earthly possessions, and how to be a better you. It is so easy to have your “light” extinguished in this self-absorbed world and one must truly put on the armor of our God each and every day to see through the darkness.

I am honored to minister to some of the most unique and loving assisted living residents in town. I spend every Sunday speaking, teaching and sharing God's love with my “peeps”. My “peeps” consist of men and women who call the assisted living residence their home (for most of them, their final home). They range in age from 72 to 101+. Many of the residents are suffering through the stages of Alzheimer's disease and are trying to understand why they can't remember what they had for dinner last evening or why that lady with the blonde hair won't let them walk home. My “peeps” have been married, divorced, widowed and sometimes more than once in each category. They have children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and have journeyed through all of the smiles and tears with each and every one.

When I start talking about “letting our light shine for God”, many a time I am met with a sea of blank stares or incredulous smiles, as if I had not noticed that many of them were sitting in wheelchairs. One of my favorite lines to say is “nowhere in the Bible can I find a verse that says once you are 85 years old, or dependent upon a walker to get around, or can't recite Bible verses verbatim, that God is finished with you”. If you are a child of God, then your light continues to shine, regardless of where you find yourself in this world. Once we accept and understand what it means to have “the glory of God” rise upon us, then and only then, can we begin to celebrate the eternal light that God has entrusted with His children. This celebration begins the moment we accept God's light. This acceptance may come at age 5 or 95. God wants His light to shine within each one of us. He created us in His image and there is no greater light shining!

God personally called me to minister to His people five years ago. He used an 87 year-old Alzheimer's patient to show me how He wanted me to spend my days. He let “Millie's” light shine through and forged a friendship, between us that no disease could destroy. He taught me that once we “arise and shine” for His glory, put our earthly temptations aside and not be held back by age, stage, or circumstances, our light will shine for all eternity.

Leigh Lowden is a Christian author, speaker and ministry leader. She ministers to assisted living residents and Alzheimer's patients and is honored to travel and share her passion for God with many aged friends throughout the country. Leigh is forever thankful for her loving and supportive family.

Connect with Leigh on Facebook!

Join us right here on December 15 for another wonderful guest post by Lucille Zimmerman, counselor, speaker and soon-to-be author on the subject matter of self-care. Ladies, we need her words of wisdom!! Don't miss it!

#Shine Series begins TODAY!!

2011-12-12T08:15:00.008-05:00

As Church 4 Chicks gears up for our brand new, first ever, WINTER Series, we are elated to have some amazing voices of our generation share their advice, experiences, wisdom, humor and more with us over these next 4 weeks!! You will hear from ministry leaders, counselors, life coaches, moms, wives, singles....women who are allowing their LIGHTS to SHINE in our generation! And doing so quite beautifully, I might add!!

If you missed the post on Dr. Lori Salierno and her encounters with Mother Teresa, you will definitely want to click here to read that!

Who do you know who lets her light shine right where she lives or works or studies?

What do you think makes a person's inner light shine more than others?

We would love to have you join the conversation by leaving your comment and adding your own thoughts to this topic. Guest posts begin tomorrow, so make sure to check back often! We will plan to add a new post at least every other day (at 8:15 AM EST) so that we will all have a couple of days at a time to stay connected during the busy Holiday Season.

Also, please visit www.church4chicks.com for all the details on our upcoming series AND for the video messages that will be posted, Lord willing, once the series kicks off!

See you back here TOMORROW for our fist guest post by Leigh Lowden who has allowed God to use her to shine a light to Alzheimer's patients in her community. You won't want to miss her tender, inspiring words.

If you could ask Mother Teresa for advice, what would you ask her? #Shine

2011-12-08T10:02:00.000-05:00

Can you imagine what it would be like to have some one-on-one time with Mother Teresa of Calcutta when she was very much alive serving the poorest of the poor in India? Even if you don't see eye-to-eye with her on everything, you have to admit that she was one amazing woman. I look at her pictures and I see a beautiful woman. Can you imagine what it would be like...

To see her with your own eyes?

To hear her voice saying your name?

To see her fragile, yet powerful hands touching those whom the world had forsaken?

I try to put myself there in my mind, but I can’t come close to being able to imagine an experience like this. It would be an honor that nothing could ever make you forget, right? Now imagine that you could ask this one-of-a-kind woman who walked with her Jesus in such an authentic way anything, knowing that she would share her wisdom and counsel with you. What would YOU ask Mother Teresa?

I wonder for myself what I might ask her…

"How did you come to know the Savior?"

“What made you choose this part of the world?”

“Has it all been worth it?”

“What keeps you going when discouragement is high?”

Most of us can only try to imagine such an encounter with this icon of the past century. Now, imagine getting to do this not once, but on at least three different occasions…

This was the experience that Dr. Lori Salierno had the privilege to realize when she was still a very young woman. God was already giving her influence as a communicator that few get to enjoy in their lifetime, much less while still so young. Those of us who know Lori and who have had the opportunity to sit under her teaching know that she is a woman with an insatiable hunger for God and for others to know Him well. She is the founder and CEO of Celebrate Life International, an organization with a vision to reach and mentor at-risk students all over the world. Lori is also the Founder and Lead Speaker for the WILD Women of God Conference which trains and mentors young women.

As Lori looked for women to mentor her in those early days of ministry, her greatest desire was to meet and be mentored by Mother Teresa. Talk about dreaming big!! It took years, lots of requests, incredible persistence, patience, speaking wherever she could for whatever she could get paid, and refusing to give up at the first, second, third….signs of opposition to finally get on a plane to India to work with, walk beside, and serve among Mother Teresa and the Sisters of Charity. I am still amazed that she got this chance at all, much less three times! I’ll never forget being in Lori’s home and reading a framed, handwritten letter to Lori and then realizing that this letter was from Mother Teresa herself. What a treasure!

So with this in mind, are you curious to know what advice Mother Teresa offered Lori when she earnestly sought it? After several years of persistence and all that it took to make this opportunity turn the corner from dream to reality, Lori had her shot—to ask Mother Teresa herself for her words of wisdom. Lori has shared on numerous occasions that as she asked Mother Teresa how she could make the biggest impact on her generation and even those to come, Mother Teresa offered her some very sage, completely biblical, and rather simple advice:

“Find a dark place and be a light there.”

Can it really be that simple? I think it can. I think it is. But simple doesn’t necessarily mean easy, does it? How many of us would agree, though, that the greatest fulfillment comes not from what is easiest but from what is best?

What might happen if…

What could happen if…

What will happen when…

Those of us who claim the Name of Christ begin to live our lives with the understanding and conviction that it is Christ in us who empowers us to let His light shine through our everyday lives...with intentionality....on purpose?

Matthew 5:16

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

As we begin our farewells to 2011 and look forward to 2012....

What dark place exists in your world? In your community? In your own neighborhood?

How can you be a light in that place?

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

As Church 4 Chicks gears up for our next series, "Shine!" we are anticipating that we will not only hear what God's Word has to say about letting our lights shine, but also following through with obedience as He gives us opportunities to do just that!

I hope you'll join us as we hear from other women who will share their hearts and messages for us beginning Monday, Dec 12 and then over the next four weeks or so on this blog spot right here.

And then, if possible, join us in person for our Winter Series which begins January 10th at Town Center Community Church in Marietta, GA. (More details at www.church4chicks.com)

Remember, “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.”

Let your light Shine!!

From one of our C4C Chicks

2011-12-07T12:25:00.000-05:00

A year ago, when I first attended Church 4 Chicks, I was looking for a Bible study for the ladies in our church to attend. What I found
at Church 4 Chicks was so much more than just a Bible study! I found a
place where I could worship God in a real way with awesome women who had hearts for God. One of the things that C4C strives to do
is cultivate environments of grace. Grace took on a totally new meaning for me as I saw it lived out by the women at C4C. I
spent all of my life in church and yet somehow I missed learning
how to give and receive grace.

There were some struggles going on in my life at the time that I was unable to share with most people and C4C became a safe place for me.
Many times during the incredible music, tears would just flow down my
cheeks as I was able to sing praises to the One who heals and comforts -
all without feeling judged or condemned by those around me. As the
leader of C4C Shelley Hendrix spoke, she ministered to my heart with incredible words of wisdom delivered with a spirit of grace and an
openness that I have not found in many places in church. Feeling loved
and accepted is one of the things that I love most at Church 4 Chicks.

Another thing that I enjoy is that there are women of all ages. This past year, my 10 year old niece came with me and she loved being a part
of it. What a privilege to worship and learn with teenagers,
grandmothers, new moms, college kids, seasoned moms, etc.!

If you are looking for true biblical teaching, a place where you can be yourself, and a desire to grow in grace, you need to check out
Church 4 Chicks. www.church4chicks.com I know that I have been forever
changed because of it.

Ida Adkins

*****

From Shelley:

Dear Ida,

Thank you for sharing this testimony and for allowing us to pass it along. We are so delighted to have you with us as we continue to work hard and pray hard in our vision of creating and cultivating environments of grace for women of all ages.

Dear Friends of Church 4 Chicks...

2011-12-05T11:20:00.000-05:00

Dear friends of C4C,

It's the most wonderful time of the year--again already! It seems that the arrival of Christmas gets here sooner and sooner with every passing year. It is so hard to believe that we are ending our 4th year of ministry and nearing the corner which opens up our 5th year of Creating and Cultivating Environments of Grace for Women of ALL Ages.

As we look at where we have been and where we are going, we are also looking at where we are today. Yesterday morning, Pastor Andy Stanley shared how the 5 campuses of Northpoint Churches (including the one my family and I attend) have given over $2,000,000 to local charities and non-profit organizations PLUS over 15,000 service hours have been committed to by church members willing to volunteer and over 40 tons of food has been donated to feed hungry families. It is exciting to be a small part of this incredible effort--to BE the Church, united to shine the Light of Christ in our communities and in our world.

C4C works with other non-profits to help engage women in
ministering to the needs of others in their communities

C4C is intentional in our mission to be a "welcome mat"
to a growing relationship
with Jesus Christ to women of all generations!