Woman 2 Woman Lounge

October 3, 2007

This weeks woman of God that MWK had the pleasure of speaking with is a home-maker, who daily tends to the three loves of her life, her husband, her son and their Maltese. She is also honored to serve our Lord in many ways. Although she has handicaps that most people don’t recognize she says it has been a blessing in disguise and has miraculously developed her into God’s inspirational instrument where she is able to glorify the Lord.

Her name is Jalyn Ezelle.

Jalyn said while her eye diseases have gradually caused her unemployment, immobility and bound her to her home permanently they have given her the opportunity to do what she loves – "write". With the slow deterioration and peripheral shadowing of her eyesight, she realized writing was the only thing she had to fall back on. She is just grateful that the Lord has maintained her eyesight well enough to allow her to continue chores for her family; especially, the continued ability to read and drum their keyboard. Jalyn was able to complete a home course with the Institute of Children’s Literature and graduated from the program in 1996.

She says her writing today not only serves her as a way of being productive with her life while contributing to society in a positive way, but has given her the passion to birth a few ministries.

1. Cornerstone Brotherhood ministry which is an international Christian community for world outreach . She is presently administering children’s Bible lessons through the network. She hopes all the literature there will one day contain her God-given artwork, and become a future book, "Blessed-Be-the-Children's Bible Storybook". You can visit the website @ http://www.tcsb.org

2. She is a Bible Teacher on the Ryze network where she runs a network on Ryze called, Jesus’ Love Online Bible Group. It is not only a network where she has been blessed to be its teacher, but a place where one can find the true love of the Good Shepherd that she proclaims the world so urgently needs. You can visit this network @ http://Jesusloveonlinebible-network.ryze.com

3. The Saved By Grace Suicide Network is a place she holds the deepest feelings of understanding and compassion. She hopes to be an inspiring vessel to those who are hurting and in need of assurance, encouragement, and comfort . This network is a place where people can go who feel hopeless and feel like they can’t go on with life to be ministered to with love. More about this network can be read @ http://www.savedbygracesuicidenetwork.org

4. Last but not least Jalyn is honored to be a part of Christian women’s resources. She is grateful to its founder, Lori Arriaga, for selecting her to be a part of her vision. She had so much faith in Jalyn that she lets her run the network’s Bible Study, “The Master’s Ewe Lamb”. Jalyn also hopes to be able to turn these studies into a book soon. You can read more about this ministry @ http://www.christianwomensresources.com

Now sit back, relax, and be inspired by the interview that we had with Mrs. Jalyn Ezzelle woman2woman……

W2W: Jalyn, you are a busy woman of God, how do you balance family and your ministry?

Jalyn: First off, Sherri, before I begin to answer your questions, I just can’t tell you how thrilled I am to be your guest for the new week! “Thank you” for thinking of me, I am truly honored …

Well, now that our two boys are grown and on their own, it’s just my husband and I and our little Duncan (that’s him in the photo with me). While my husband, Don, is away at work, I take care of few chores. Which, with just the two of us now, there is not that much to do in the house (praise God! lol). When all is quiet, I’m able to devote my time to God and His ministry during the day.

W2W: You have a love for writing, what are the topics you like to cover most in your writing?

Jalyn: I’m a kid at heart. I used to slip into imaginary lands with children’s fictions. But since I’ve gotten into the Word, I’ve grown to be more particular with my writings for children. I’ve started a children’s Bible storybook, by the way. I’m hoping to get the time to fill it with some of my God-given artwork. As for my other writings, my heart is geared for those under deep depression; especially for those, who not only know or understand God, but for those who are spiritually struggling.

W2W: What has been your greatest accomplishment in life thus far?

Jalyn: That is a tough question. It is not only one that I’ve had to ponder and put in perspective a moment, but it has carried me back to the time when I was a “cast sheep”. A cast sheep wanders off to himself and tends to lose his balance, it bringing him upon his back. If the shepherd doesn’t find him in time, the cast one is struggling, his feet and legs frantically moving about every which way as he tries gasping for breath. If the sheep doesn’t get up, then because of blood circulation pressing upon his heart, he dies. There was a time in my life I felt that way. Not only did I feel like I couldn’t breathe, I did not like myself at all. Not only was it too much for me as a child just to get through it with my deafness, but later in life, had grown more devastated with news that I’d be blind within twenty years. Boy, that indeed was quite a blow. “Imagine living a life not being able to see or hear at all?” I’d find myself repeating over and over. Why I just couldn’t bear it; the thought of it alone led me into the fear of raising any children, being a good wife to my husband … or actually, to do anything! I knew there were others who got by life in their situations such as mine, perhaps worse, “But things like that just can’t be happening to me,” I thought.

What’s my greatest accomplishment through all this? This cast sheep has finally taken the Good Shepherd’s Hand, Who has developed a new chapter in her book. Rather than looking at my handicap such a nuisance, I actually feel blessed by it. How can that be? Well I’m able to glorify my Lord with it. If it hadn’t been for the “thorn in the flesh” in this life, I don’t think my deteriorating eyes would have ever granted me God’s beyond-the-amazing spiritual insights. But yes, there has been an accomplishment after all—final victory through Christ; one that I’ve won!

It’s been over twenty years since I walked out of that optometrist’s office with the dreadful news. Actually, it has been twenty-seven years and I’m so grateful to God that I can “see” as well now as I did then! You see? By finally surrendering my all, and taking the Good Shepherd by the Hand, He has maintained, not only my eyesight (and hearing), but given me spiritual insights beyond human understanding.

W2W: What do you love most about being involved in ministry?

Jalyn: Ooooh, girl, I get such a blessing from all my (His) ministries. Not only have I come across so many amazing people, on and off the Internet, but have learned so many things myself. It’s as if God is speaking to me, too, when I relate His messages to others or place them in my projects all day long. While my other family members are away at work, the ministry to me is my work. I may not be getting paid for it like folks who get their paychecks, but I’m just more-than blessed with the feeling of God’s renewal. His infinite love and wisdom I’m able to carry with me to bed at nights.

W2W: What is your favorite Bible verse and how is it relevant to your life?

Jalyn: Why I love the entire Word! While I wish I could memorize everything, I do find John 15:5 mostly upon my heart: “I am the Vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me, and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” How true.

That particular Scripture certainly has great relevance upon my life due to my “cast” moments I’ve had in the past. I was able to “discover” the Good Shepherd—the Vine, who daily waters and nourishes my entire soul (and being).

W2W: What special things do you and your family do together?

Jalyn: While my man is a weekend sports nut, he likes to tailgate in our own backyard (when he’s not working). Between the blaring of our two televisions and his car radio out front, Don manages to get around and turn the chicken legs and bacon-wrapped asparagus over the fire. You should see this man, a delight to the eye on our weekends (he thinks he’s at some ball field doing what other fans are doing lol!) But other than spending most of our weekends at home, we like to travel a little. We plan to take a drive to “Memphis” shortly, just to check out a dining place there for their savory menus … Hey, since our boys are grown and out now, we’re finally able to find time with each other.

W2W: You work along with the Saved By Grace Suicide Network, what message do you have for someone who might be reading this interview and is struggling with depression and thoughts of wanting to end it all?

Jalyn: Oh dear, you’ve just asked me a question that I can never shut up about, . I hope you’ll not mind then, if I share a portion of my excerpt here? A bit lengthy, but if it would so much “help” someone, I’d like to take a good shot at it … The Other Side—What Happens If I Die? We spend our years with sighing; it is a valley of tears; but death is the funeral of all our sorrows. ~ Thomas Watson

Discussing death is not at all a pleasant subject, but as I did some research upon the creation of the website, I was shocked to find that there were actually people who had morbid fascination with death. Whether people find it fascinating, or wish to seek the unknown, by all means, death is still creepy, frightening and uninvited. No one knows for certain what it’s like to be “exited” from life. Depending upon the body’s trauma, and how death is approached, we automatically assume that it begins when the heart stops beating. We know the heart and brain begins to slowly get deprived of oxygen. The blood, every nerve and tissue, among other bodily functions, begin to shut down, where the body then specifies a point from which it can no longer contain life. By the time the body temperature drops, it has now gone into a deep state of sleep… ~ Book Source: "Death to Dust", Kenneth V. Iserson, M.D.

My, do we still wish to face this appalling thing? So without realizing it, how many of us under anxiety or hatred, have often literally declared, “How I long for death. I just want to go on to paradise; just to sleep forever…” Sleep forever? My friend, "resting the way out" is not going to happen…death doesn’t just end there… What’s On the Other Side? …

Okay, let’s say we’ve pursued the suicide successfully. Our heart / brain are no longer active; with our eyes closed, body shut off from the world and everything, we’re done—poof, all finished. Now we’re waiting for an afterlife reward, no more worries, no more hurt, no more pain, or any problems to face ever again, right? Wrong! We all know that the moment life departs from our body, our soul will be standing before the Presence of our Creator, and Judgment then takes place. We are accountable for everything we have done while alive on earth. "…For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat" ~ Romans 14:10c "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God" ~ Romans 14:12 "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account" ~ Hebrews 4:13

I now suspect that probably someone is thinking, "Oh, I don’t believe it". But friend, let’s say we’re okay with it, that you don’t believe in this heavenly judgment and all, and then you just specifically went ahead and took your life anyway; but in the end, you have found that facing God’s Judgment Seat is true after all. Friend, then, there is absolutely "NO WAY" of returning back to life again just to make it right this time… Think about it. There is absolutely no way! "Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment" ~ Hebrews 9:27 "Why is this judgment upon us? We have a right to die if we choose to…it’s nobody’s business. We have a right to do what we want to with ourselves, don’t we?" Friend, I’m afraid not. Whether we like it or not, our bodies do belong to Someone. We don’t just belong to our parents or legal guardians, or spouse, but by an authority of a higher being. Judgment upon us therefore belongs to God... "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body" ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19 "Do not be afraid of any man, for judgment belongs to God" ~ Deuteronomy 1:17b

Now with that said, let’s keep in mind that we now know our Creator not only owns us, but has lovingly created us. In His perfection, God created each of us uniquely, each of us created with special talents, gifts and certain traits and personalities. Believe it or not, we were actually created for God’s glory. In other words, God is very delighted with how He made you. He is pleased, for everything He has made about you is good. Now stay with me. There may be some things we don’t like about ourselves, but God loves His creation; He adores His creation. In fact, He has utter confidence in "you", my friend. So let us imagine that while He knows everything going on with us down here, He sees that we’ve decided to take upon ourselves by taking out our life—actually, His life, shall we say; the temple that God owns, the one that He has uniquely created for a purpose; the life that He has been so proud of all along.

So now back on earth, while we’re secretly setting up an appointment with the nearest Dr. Suicide, or meditating on how we should exit or sacrifice ourselves by privately making plans and preparations, imagine the background voice of Satan, “Ahha, God! It looks like Your own creation doesn’t like herself too well. Dear Josie had rather sacrifice her own life—she had rather die, than live the life You’ve provided for her! Even she, must be that unhappy with Your creation!” It breaks God’s heart. Why does it break God’s heart? Because, our Giver-of-Life has great confidence in us, where He has specific plans, a sole purpose for us. We, as His temples, are sacred, and really under God’s possession. And when we take upon ourselves to eliminate what belongs to God, we’ve not only let Him down or have become selfish, but have committed murder— yes, murder. "If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple" ~ 1 Corinthians 3:17. Doesn’t this Scripture then indicate that when someone murders another, God will destroy that person through everlasting death? Then, could God possibly take this action upon us if we murder our own selves? Honestly, none of us know for certain what has happened to our loved ones who had been troubled and have already taken their own lives, like my grandmother has done. Although I would like to believe with all my heart that God did have great compassion on Grandmother regarding her circumstance(s), and has given her mercy (I pray so!), I am also aware that God does expect us to be obedient to His Word. In other words, God would’ve also been deeply disappointed, friend, because of us rather than listening to His voice (the Word), we’ve decided to listen to the one who has fed us lies through our thoughts all of these years. This is the one who has played the “angel of light” or imitator of God.

Let’s listen a moment to what Jesus said during His ministry to those who listened / listens to Satan: "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He (Satan) was a murderer from the beginning; not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies" ~ John 8:44 Satan, the name meaning “the accuser,” is constantly at battle for our minds. He will do, say, or try placing anything on our hearts that will encourage us to act in manners of killing, stealing or destroying if we listen to him (John 10:10). Why? Because, in every possible way, Satan will thrive on anything that’s bad for our lives, especially where these things can generate death in some way—death to our joy and happiness; death to our loved ones, or ourselves; death to our finances, or job situations; death to friends, relationships, marriages, or traditional family values, etc. So what is Satan’s top priority? That would be, death to our souls. How can this be? Remember when Satan coaxed Eve into eating the forbidden fruit? The result of it had caused both Adam and Eve spiritual death (separated from God).

Adam and Eve once had dominion, over themselves, and everything around them that God had given them in the Garden of Eden. But by listening to the “father of lies”, Adam and Eve exchanged their dominion over to temptation. That, my friend, rendered Satan the authority—over humanity—including you, my friend. "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" ~ Romans 3:23 "For the wages of sin is death" ~ Romans 6:23

Friend, are you going to listen to this “father of lies” anymore? God loves you so much. God loves you so much that He sent His own Son down to a cruel Cross so that you will no longer be under Satan’s grasp. Jesus Christ made it possible so that you and I can be reconciled back to God. To those who wish to sacrifice themselves in someway: Jesus Christ has already made that ultimate sacrifice; you don’t have to. Friend, that once-for-all sacrifice has already been done. Jesus’ blood-shed Grace on the Cross is for us all. Yes, for you too. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life" ~ John 3:16 Even for us as sinners, He: "...God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" ~ Romans 5:8 Wow, what great compassion! Christ still had that love for us, even when we’ve never deserved it; and yet, He willingly laid down His life for us anyway. That’s powerful love, my friend. Would you like to receive salvation by grasping what Christ has done for you today? When you become a child of God, you will have His full protection, unspeakable joy and blessings beyond your wildest dreams! Find out how by going to “Must You Live?” upon our network: www.savedbygracesuicidenetwork.org

My friend, please don’t listen to Satan. Don’t let him taunt you day and night, mentally trying to tear you down. Satan is the great perverter, an expert at where he’s constantly deceiving us through our thought life, reminding us that we’re failures. But you know what? God doesn’t see us that way. God is the Father of Truth, and He tells us that we are very special in His sight. Every Word that God says about you is the Truth. His promises are real. See how special Christ thinks you are—listen closely, my friend… You are God’s child: "Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" ~ John 1:12 You are Christ’s friend: "I am the Vine, and you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, then he will bear much fruit; apart from Me, you can do nothing" ~ John 15:5 You (and your sins) have been justified: "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" ~ Romans 5:1 You cannot be separated from the love of God: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" ... 37. "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us" ~ Romans 8:35, 37 Not only have you been bought with a price, and belong to God (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20) but… "You have been redeemed and forgiven for your sins; and have become a citizen of heaven: For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins" ~ Colossians 1:14 "You have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline" ~ 2 Timothy 1:7 You can find grace and mercy to help in time of need: "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" ~ Hebrews 4:16 You are born of God, and the evil one cannot touch you: "We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him" ~ 1 John 5:18 Source: The Holy Bible

Friend, God’s Word for you doesn’t stop there, because there’s more. So you see, Satan doesn’t want you to listen to God. The father of lies tries to block your effectiveness as God’s child so he can deceive you into believing that you are nothing but a product of your past—subject to sin, prone to failure, and controlled by your habits. Satan is also very good at bringing up some bad, past experiences we’ve had into our minds. He wants you to die without God. He wants you to turn against God through an action by taking or sacrificing your life, (or another’s), or some sort of sin, period. Satan is determined to turn you from the One, Who has offered you life—the life here, and the eternal life. Here are few Scriptural references regarding Satan (the devil): Father of lies – John 8:44 Ruler of this world – John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11 Acts as an angel of light – 2 Corinthians 11:14 Prince of the power of the air – Ephesians 2:2 Abaddon – Revelation 9:11 (Notice the word bad in his name?) The deceiver of the world – Revelation 12:9 Listen to the plea of a lady, who was being deceived, then tried unsuccessfully to kill herself: Letter Source: The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson: “Dear God, Where are you? How can you watch and not help me? I hurt so bad, and you don’t even care. If you cared you’d make it stop or let me die. I love you, but you seem so far away. I can’t hear you or feel you or see you, but I’m supposed to believe you’re here. Lord, I feel them and hear them. They are here. I know you’re real, God, but they are more real to me right now. Please make someone believe me, Lord. Why won’t you make it stop? Please, Lord, please! If you love me you’ll let me die. ~ A Lost Sheep” But after the lady finally came to realize her deception to Satan’s mental torment and the depth of the truth to God’s love for her, she sensed God’s leading to write this: Letter source: The Bondage Breaker by Neil T. Anderson: “My Dear Lost Sheep, You ask Me where I am. My child, I am with you and I always will be. You are weak, but in Me you are strong. I love you so much that I can’t let you die. I am so close that I feel everything you feel. I know what you are going through, for I am going through it with you. But I have set you free and you must stand firm. You do not need to die physically for my enemies to be gone, but be crucified with Me and I will live in you, and you shall live with Me. I will direct you in paths of righteousness. My child, I love you and I will never forsake you, for you are truly mine. ~ Love, God” My friend, I know that life is not perfect. And it’s never going to be. Not in this lifetime will we see everything go well all the time. That’s because, as we have learned, that through Adam and Eve, life and everything in it, has become the byproduct of sin, which resulted with imperfection within the world. "...BY ONE MAN SIN ENTERED INTO THE WORLD, AND DEATH BY SIN; AND SO DEATH PASSED UPON ALL MEN, FOR THAT ALL HAVE SINNED" Romans 5:12).

You see, we once had God’s perfection, where problems, tears or pain would not have existed to begin with. But when Satan intercepted, life and everything in it, then became tainted, and given unto evil authority. I know at times, life may seem unbearable for many of us, but friend, if you’ll place your faith and trust in God, He will provide a way for you. I’m not saying that our troubles will fully go away, but through God’s help, we can be strengthened. Besides, sometimes some of our problems may lead us to God’s specific plan (This, Satan does not want to see!) That, my friend, will eventually bring amazing results to our lives; and it’s during those times that we can receive joy, and shout thanksgiving and praises to Him (God) for those miraculous results. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose" ~ Romans 8:28 My friend, your life —you— are so precious in God’s sight.

Please don’t let your—His—sacred temple slip from God’s glory. He loves you sooo much! So if you haven’t already, please embrace Christ’s wonderful claim over you, by letting Him adopt you into His family today. How? By going to “Must You Live?” at the network: www.savedbygracesuicidenetwork.org

Moms Working for the Kingdom would like to thank Mrs.Jalyn Ezelle for granting us the opportunity to interview her and for taking time from her schedule to share with us with us Woman2Woman. I encourage you to stop by and visit her network and Ryze page to find out more about this amazing women.

http://www.ryze.com/go/Jazelle
http://Jesusloveonlinebible-network.ryze.com

Be sure and visit us next Wednesday when MWK interviews another Woman of God.

Sherri C. Walker
Founder of Woman 2 Woman Lounge,
a Subsidiary of Moms Working for the Kingdom
http://handmaidens.proboards100.com

October 10, 2007

The woman of God that Moms Working for the Kingdom has had the pleasure to interview this week is a wife, mother of 4, a writer, a graphic designer, and also my friend. After working for 13 consecutive years in corporate America and then being laid off she was inspired to go into business for herself. God had blessed her abundantly with typing and computer skills so she knew she was capable of running her own business. Her name is Cynthia G. Boyer and she is the founder of Moms in Slippers. Her goal is to help other women who also want to be WAHMS start their own secretarial business.

Through her Magic Fingers Typing Services she will teach you how to have your own successful typing business with little or no money. Cynthia said when she started her own secretarial business she didn’t have any money, but she had a computer, typing paper, and a Dictaphone machine, that she borrowed from an ex-coworker, and a telephone. When she first started out she ran into a lot of scams so she knew having her own secretarial business truly meant working for herself. She wanted to be her own boss which meant doing things her way and on her own time schedule, and most importantly not having to answer to anyone else. She is doing just that with her Typing Service. She says the rewards and benefits are fantastic. She loves working in the comforts of home. If your ready to embark on being a WAHM with your own typing business she is the one that can help you. I encourage you to visit Cynthia's website and find out more about her services @ www.momsinslippers.com

Now without further ado sit back, relax, and enjoy the interview with this weeks chosen women of faith, Cynthia G. Boyer......

W2W: What was your main motivation behind starting moms in slippers?

Cynthia: During the years that I spent at the hospital as a program coordinator of the internal medicine residency program, I learned a wealth of valuable lessons. The lessons that I learned derived from the unhappy experiences I was forced to endure because of the people I worked with. Many of the things that I witnessed in the workplace amongst doctors and other staff members, made me realize that whenever you encounter people, you are always going to encounter problems and this for me, was no way to live, simply because most of my precious and valuable time was spent working with cold and calculating people. I was laid-off from my position as program coordinator because the new assistant program director said that I was not a good fit. I can honestly say that I was elated to go home to be with my family and just concentrate on Cynthia for a while. After being home for a few months, I spoke to my dear husband and expressed to him that I did not want to go back into the workforce. I did not and just could not work for someone else ever again. He understood and asked what I was thinking about doing. At first I thought about going to cosmetology school and he said, "No, you have too much talent for that. So, I thought about what he said and decided against cosmetology school. I was thinking and thinking, wracking my brain trying to think of something that I could do from home. I thought to myself, I could probably find typing jobs on the internet. I started searching for typing jobs on the internet and found nothing but scam after scam. I had started Magic Fingers Typing Services years ago, but it was only part-time. I worked part-time typing medical reports and correspondence for the hematologist where I worked. I was also asked, by the doctor's wife, who at the time, was the office manager in the Cancer Treatment Center, to type a manual for her husband and I was happy to do so. Again, I thought to myself, why not work on my own typing business, after all, I had made really good money from just typing part-time. Magic Fingers was reborn September 2002. I thought to myself, "Why not make Magic Fingers Typing Services full-time and make it Magic Fingers Secretarial Services, and so, for the first few months after being laid-off, I stayed home and just relaxed. I had been working consecutively for 13 years and I needed a break; a break I truly believe I deserved. My father died in 2001, just before I lost my job and at the very moment of losing him, I realized the things that I thought had importance, really had no importance at all. It is amazing how God plans and directs our footsteps because right after being laid-off from my job, my husband had a kidney transplant and I was home to be his caregiver. And so my motivation for starting MIS was because I only wanted to work for Cynthia. I was determined to stay out of corporate America. God has blessed me abundantly with great typing and superior computer skills and I knew that I could start my own business and truly make it a success and in the process, I could be a help to other moms who want to start a real work at home business.

W2W: What time management tips can you give mothers with businesses who are trying to juggle work and home life?

Cynthia: I try to spend my time as wisely as possible and it's really fairly easy as long as you have a set schedule, carving out time for special tasks, cleaning and organizing your home. Juggling work and home life can sometimes be overwhelming, but if everyone helps out, it doesn't have to consume your leisure time. Write a TO DO LIST - STICK TO IT AND JUST DO IT. Make a schedule, stick to it and stay organized. Organization is an enormous part of time management and if you can stay organized, you can use your time wisely.

W2W: Cynthia describe what a typical work day is like for you.

Cynthia: First, let me tell you that I love spending quiet time with God, praising, honoring, reverencing and thanking Him for His goodness, His patience, His understanding and His great and wonderful provision for my family and me. I have carved out several windows for certain activities during the week that allow me to just rest on the weekends or work on my businesses if that's what I choose to do. God wakes me up at 5 a.m. Monday through Friday. I wake B.J. up at 6:15, and yes, I help him get ready for school. I say this because people tell me that I baby him by helping him and I think that in today's society, there just isn't enough love demonstrated in the home. My actions show that I love my son, I care for Him and that love and care comes from my relationship with the Lord. Yes, he could brush his own teeth and wash his own face, but I like to help him out every now and then. He will have all the independence he needs when he becomes an adult for he will be an adult much longer than he will be a child/teenager. After we are finished washing up and getting dress, B.J. and I make our way to the kitchen where I prepare a hot nutritious bowl of Quaker Oatmeal. I add a dash of sugar/honey and some carnation milk to his oatmeal..mmm mmm good. After he is finished eating breakfast, we go into the living and I make him read a bible verse to me and then we say together, O magnify the Lord with and let us exalt his name together. I then kiss him goodbye and he's off to the bus. My day begins with prayer; I speak to God and He speaks to my heart through His Holy Spirit. I then read my Bible, the Old Testament and David, Jonathan, Saul, Michal (smile) for one hour. I do this Sunday through Monday. My time with God is neverending because I speak to Him all day and I keep Him uppermost in my thoughts all day everyday. This helps me to accomplish things that I normally would not be able to achieve. Monday through Thursday, after reading my Bible, I immediately prepare dinner; lamb, chicken, potatoes, spinach, pizza and pasta during the course of my week. While dinner is slowly cooking, I begin my work day. My Mondays are spent working on a variety of things that include writing for Moms in Slippers and Treasures of His Grace, my newest venture, and typing for clients. On Tuesdays, after dinner is on, I wash clothes and then begin working on typing jobs. On Wednesdays, I wash more clothes, clean my bathrooms and straighten up the living room. I try to keep my kitchen as clean as possible at all times. On Thursday, I dedicate my day to writing and then creating and designing Christian based products. For the past three months, I have been helping a friend from church who recently bought a franchise; I do all the computer work for her. So my days are filled, but are managed using certain days for certain tasks and also by applying God's principles to my life.

W2W: Besides Jesus, who is your hero, past or present?

Oh my, Jesus is the One and Only Hero isn't He. My inspiration and my other hero; A man who helped raise me and love me with all his heart. A man filled with wisdom and knowledge that he did not obtain by sitting in a classroom, but by knowing the Word of God. A man who used to say, "Alright, now Cynt, payback ain't no rob"!!! A man who kept a garden so beautiful that you thought you were in heaven. A man who could fix anything; a man whom the neighbors loved so deeply, sincerely and wholeheartedly that they felt a real sense of loss when he died. A man who kept, not only the front of his house spotless, but his neighboring homes as well. A man I could watch the Phillies with and laugh whenever he would say to me, Dave Cash can't hit the side of a house! A man who I could go to and say, "Daddy, can I read this story to you about Jackie Robinson; he would listen and as I would read the story to him, I would cry because of the way that Jackie was treated and he would say, "Cynt, stop reading that story; it upsets you too badly"! A man who was married to my mother for 52 loving years; My father, Vernon Travick.

W2W: What is your favorite Bible verse and how is it relevant to your life right now?

Cynthia: My favorite Bible verse is Psalm 28:7; The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusteth in him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise Him. This scripture is relevant to my life because I know that in my time of trouble, storms, hardships, heartache, heartbreak, persecution, suffering and pain, the Lord is my strength and He guides me through my storms and my heart truly does trust in Him. And I must say, that the storm that I am walking through right now, I have no fears or worries because God is protection and He is my eyes, guiding my every footstep.

W2W: What is the most effective Marketing you have ever done for your business?

Cynthia: The most effective marketing I have done is designing a flyer and distributing it all over the place to procure business for Magic Fingers. I have gotten a lot of business this way. This is the best and most inexpensive way to get business. The internet is good, but there is nothing like designing your business your way and just good old traditional marketing is one of the keys to having a successful business

W2W: What is the BEST thing you enjoy most about being a WAHM?

Cynthia: I enjoy being in my home, working in comfort in every aspect of my business and just enjoying God's Eternal Presence and His Divine Aid; He is the One Who has allowed me to be a WAHM in the first place.

Moms Working for the Kingdom would like to thank Mrs. Cynthia Boyer for granting us the opportunity to interview her and for taking time from her schedule to share with us with us Woman2Woman. I encourage you to stop by and visit her website and Ryze page to find out more about this amazing women.

http://www.momsinslippers.com
http://www.ryze.com/go/godslovingladyoffaith

Be sure and visit us next Wednesday when MWK interviews another Woman of God.

Sherri C. Walker
Founder of Woman 2 Woman Lounge,
a Subsidiary of Moms Working for the Kingdom
http://handmaidens.proboards100.com

October 17, 2007

This weeks interview is about a wife and mother of two. She has several home based businesses. One of them she runs along with her husband, together they make Disciple's Crosses. The name of their business is Heavenly Crosses and this woman‘s name is Corrie Peterson.

These beautiful Crosses are hand crafted and are put on a small leather cord and come in many colors. These crosses are a great reminder and teaching tool of the sacrifice of Jesus. You can show your own conviction of the Christian Way, and give the gift of one of these crosses to others and allow them to say the same. Corrie is also a Virtual Assistant and has a business in advertising. Her goal and dream is to one day be a WAHM. She says God is helping her make this dream a reality. Through the businesses she now runs it is helping her reach the fulfillment of this dream. Corrie’s says that when she becomes a WAHM the best thing will be that she not have to report to anyone else but herself, my family, and God. It was a pleasure talking with Mrs. Peterson for the time that we did, grab a cup of Java, sit back, relax, and read what she told us about her life, her business, and her future goals.

W2W: Tell us a little bit about Heavenly Crosses and how you got started?

Corrie: My husband and I make and sell cross necklaces, key chains, zipper pulls, bracelets, and keepsakes. We started this business in October of 2003. We have a couple in our church that were making and selling these crosses. We purchased more than a half dozen of them and decided to consider doing ourselves. We looked at the website several times and decided that God lead us to the site and he would get us through the business.

W2W: What three things are you most thankful that you have been able to accomplish in life?

Corrie: I am thankful that I married my high school sweetheart and we have been together for 14 years. I'm thankful that my husband is wonderful, caring and understanding. Without him, I would not be where I'm at today. I am also thankful for my boys. We tried for a year to have a baby, then we lost a baby before we were able to get pregnant with our oldest. God has been instrumental in all of these accomplishments.

W2W: What do you think is your greatest accomplishment in life thus far?

Corrie: My greatest accomplishment in life are my boys. They are wonderful and fantastic. They are a pleasure to be around and they both care about others.

W2W: Besides Jesus, who is your hero, past or present?

Corrie: I'm not sure that I have another hero other than Jesus. I know my mentor is Nicole Dean. She is just an amazing woman. She has taken her life from living basically paycheck to paycheck and worrying if they were going to make it when her husband wasn't working, to making a wonderful life for her family. I want what she has and that's why she is my mentor.

W2W: What is your favorite Bible verse and how is it relevant to your life right now?

Corrie: My favorite Bible verse is John 3:16. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whoever believeth in him shall not parish, but have ever lasting life. I believe in God and he has given me what I have wanted. Everything from a wonderful husband and the wish of boy's to enough money to pay the bills each month. I live for him.

W2W: How do manage your time with wearing as many hats as you do in the business field?

Corrie: Some days it's really hard to manage your time. My family is involved in what I do. Heavenly Crosses is a family owned business. So we work it together. The rest of the businesses that I have are helping us to make enough money to get bills paid, so that I can come home. My boy's and my husband have the same dream as I do, so they help me manage my time. They help with the chores and they help with meals. They make it easier for me to manage my time.

W2W: What tips can you give anyone seeking to start their own business?

Corrie: When you first start out, don't give up. It can take a year or two to get your business off the ground. Just don't give up on it. God will get you through this.

Moms Working for the Kingdom would like to thank Mrs. Corrie Peterson for granting us the opportunity to interview her and for taking time from her schedule to share with us with us Woman2Woman. I encourage you to stop by and visit Corrie's website and Ryze page to find out more about this multi-talented women.

http://www.heavenlycrosses.com
http://www.ryze.com/go/momoftwoboys

Be sure and visit us next Wednesday when MWK interviews another amazing Woman of God.

Sherri C. Walker
Founder of Woman 2 Woman Lounge,
a Subsidiary of Moms Working for the Kingdom
http://handmaidens.proboards100.com

October 24, 2007

This weeks interview is of a wife and mother of two daughters. She has been called to teach and proclaim the Good News.

Her name is Lisa Lucas. God has given her and her husband Chris a vision to pray, teach, and preach the Gospel everywhere. Together they oversee their intercessory prayer ministry called Watch N Pray. Lisa and Chris spread the Love of Jesus and let people know that Jesus Saves.

In a world where many are lost and looking for which way to turn and which way to go it is important that we as God’s disciples be available to lovingly point them in the right direction. There is no plainer scripture than--- John 14:6- where Jesus states that “HE is the way, the truth, and the life, and no man comes to the Father but buy him“.

Jesus instructed his disciples in Mark 16:15- to go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. It is our job also as his disciples to see that this GOOD NEWS goes forth and Chris and Lisa are doing just that through their ministry and the way they live.

It is my pleasure to share with you the interview that took place with Mrs. Lucas. May you be encouraged and inspired also to share the good news with someone.

Grab your Java Ladies as we read yet another inspiring story on another extraordinary women of God…..

W2W: Lisa tell us about watch and pray, the ministry you and your husband oversee together?

Lisa: Watch n pray was a opportunity for my husband and I to reach people, outside the walls of our church. We could give encouragement to people that we may never meet. If they just stop by and browse the site we hope and pray that they will be reminded to be watchful and prayerful as the hour draws near and stay encouraged.

W2W: What are two of your favorite scriptures and why?

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

God gave me a word long before I could understand it, and these where the scriptures He used. Even though the Words he spoke to me were very plain, the seat that I sat in at that time didn’t match the vision, but now I understand clearly 5 years later it is now coming to pass. I waited and tarried. But if the Lord said you can count on it He will do just what He said--From the song- Write the Vision.

W2W: What is your greatest Joy in working for the Kingdom of God and the best way to share your love of God and the Good News in the workplace with others?

Lisa: It has to be seeing people come to Christ. When you have been intimate with Jesus, you want everyone to have this same experience. You want everybody to know how good He is. I have found that the best way to share the Love of God in the workplace, or anywhere is just to show yourself friendly and allow God's love to shine from within. It always opens up opportunities to share Jesus. I think this is the best way. People will receive you and it is genuine.

W2W: How do you spend your quiet moments alone with the Lord?

Lisa: My quiet is time, is usually at night after everyone has gone to sleep. I start out by studying the Word and then He takes it from there. He begins to minister to me and I lay quietly and listen. My house is quiet and still and no interruptions.

W2W: Besides Jesus who has been a great inspiration or role model in your life past or present?

Lisa: I would say my mother. She has gone through a lot of illness and she always overcomes. Her courage and will to live has been tremendous. She accounts it all to Jesus that she continues inspite of all her adversities

W2W: Maintaining a balance between ministry and family can be a bit challenging from time to time. How do you
delegate your time between the two?

Lisa: I thank God for a husband who is seeking the Lord and recognizes that sometimes I need a little extra time. So he helps me balance and maintain. When two walk together it is so much easier to serve the Lord.

W2W: What is your message to those who feel hopeless and don't know which way to turn?

Lisa: I would say to those who are hopeless and have no place to turn. Here are directions to Jesus:

Follow the detours from “No” Place to “Turn” Street, then get off “Hopeless” Avenue by making a right onto “Mouth” Avenue which turns into “Confession” Lane. From there drive one block--to “Jesus is Lord” Place, then make a quick left at “Believe” Blvd which turns into “Heart” Terrace, make a right to “God” Court and immediately they will see “He has been raised from the dead” Street, and you will end up at “Salvation” Drive.

Once they have followed these directions they will never want to get back on “Hopeless” Avenue and “No place to turn” Street again. True confession and true belief can never allow you to go back again.

Moms Working for the Kingdom wants to thank Lisa Lucas for taking the time out to give of herself in this interview with us. I encourage you to visit her website and Ryze page to find out more about this women of God and her ministry.

http://www.ryze.com/go/LISASINGING2866
http://www.watchnpray.biz/

Be sure and visit us next week when MWK interviews another extraordinary woman.

Sherri C. Walker
Founder of the
Woman2Woman Lounge &
Moms Working for the Kingdom
http://www.momsworkingfortheking.org

October 31, 2007

A true humble servant is what describes this woman. She is a pastoral assistant in her church, the Superintendent of Sunday School, youth leader, choir directress for the Gospel & Mass choirs, and music director for the Youth and Children choirs. Her services doesn't stop there, when she is not busy with these duties she manages to run a Day Care Service and a Typing Service. This extraordinary women of God's name is Jeanette Lewis. She is a wife, and a mother of four, and a proud grandmother.

Jeanette is the owner and operator of a family Day Care in Philadelphia called Mom-Mom’s Place. This had always been her dream and she is happy to have seen it come to fruition and be an anointed and successful business for her. Jeanette admits there is not limit to what God can do when you just trust him.

It is a blessing for Moms Working for the Kingdom to interview Jeanette Lewis and hear her story for more reasons then one. Jeanette is a Breast Cancer Survivor who proudly credits God for seeing her through her treatments and allowing her to keep a smile on her face and a song in her heart. We rejoice with Mrs. Lewis and thank the Lord for his Grace and Mercy bestowed upon her during her battle with this often debilitating, dreadful, and sometimes fatal disease. We encourage women to take part in routine self breast examinations and have their annual mammograms. Early detection can mean the difference between life or death. (To find out more about Breast Cancer see the articles in our Health Section).

Now grab another cup of that Java, sit back, relax, and enjoy yet another amazing interview with a truly amazing woman.....

1. What inspired you to start your Day Care Services Jeanette?

I was blessed to have my mom and mother in law raise my kids while I worked. They were raised at home in a loving Christian environment. When my grandson came along in 2002 I wanted to do the same (but couldn't financially - only one working at the time). However, as my husband's health decreased and my work stress increased, God gave me my heart's desire and enabled me to open up my own business.

2. How do you balance your business, Church, and family?

Balancing these three important facets in my life is done with excellent time management and with a lot of prayer. Communication plays a big role here. Everyone has a part to play in the house. No slacking allowed.

My business is currently run from my home. My youngest two boys go to school at home and my oldest two work at night. Since everyone is home all day, we deal with each joy and sorrow as it comes. We are there to support each other in all we do. We spend a lot of quality time together and I also take special care to spend time with each of my children 1:1 so I can tend to their needs as a mommy.

We attend church with my husband's extended immediate family. So although we gather to worship together on Sunday, we are also available to help each other during the week as well.

3. What valuable lessons are you teaching these precious children the Lord is allowing you to watch over while their parents are at work?

That they are loved by an ever-loving God and me. That they are special and wonderfully made. That they are here for a purpose and they have to learn all they can so they can fulfill that purpose.

4. What three things are you most thankful for?

My walk with Christ, my family, and my business being successful in spite of the naysayers.

5. What is your favorite scripture and how is it relevant to your life?

Philippians 4:13. I can do ALL things through Christ that strengthens me. That says it all.

6. Who has had the greatest spiritual influence on your life?

My mom. Her faith walk has always been an inspiration to me. I want to be just like her when I grow up. (smile)

7. Praise God you are a breast cancer survivor Jeanette, what words of encouragement can you offer women who right now who may be battling breast cancer?

Keep your head up, a song in your heart, a smile on your face and a praise on your lips. This isn't a punishment, it's just a test. Let this test become a testimony of praise of how God brought you through!!

Moms Working for the Kingdom wants to thank Jeanette Lewis for being a member of our ministry and for taking time out to give of herself in this interview with us. I encourage you to visit her website and Ryze page to find out more about this extraordinary brave women of God.

http://www.mommomsplace.com
http://www.ryze.com/go/efjabee

Be sure and visit us next week when MWK interviews another Woman of God.

Sherri C. Walker
Founder & Editor of the
Woman2Woman Lounge &
Moms Working for the Kingdom
http://www.momsworkingforthekingdom.org

"Uniting, Edifying, Inspiring, Motivating & Empowering Women"