Thank You Everyone!

Fashion Beyond Borders would like to thank you EVERYONE for such an amazing and rewarding night!  Pearls of Hope Outreach + The entire FBB Team is so grateful for all the kindness shown!
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Thank you to all our beautiful designers, models and sponsors!

Carolina Style Magazine

Murphy Photography 

Off Broadway Shoes

Brahmin of South Park Mall

Macy’s of South Park Mall

Olive Garden of Northlake Mall

Piink Pastries by Amanda Johnson

LW Designs

SS Events

Mi Amor Decor

Be Yoga and Wellness

Industry Coworking

Men’s Warehouse

Walmart 

Pepsi 

If you'd still like to give towards our cause, we are accepting donations via our website, underneath the ABOUT page! Please be sure to tag us if you are still posting images...and we'll see you all next year!!! #fbbnc

Two Eyes are Better Than One!

We are living in a day when moral codes are being muddled with personal perception, idealisms and cultural opinions. What is right for her is not necessarily right for you. What you feel comfortable doing should not be subjected onto others around you who may feel differently. You have the right to live your life in whatever way you choose, regardless of what others say, because it is your personal business...or so we are told.

In our culture, we can dress how we want, say what we want, date who we want and make our money the way we want, but if anyone opposes us or disagrees with us, we put the "Hater" stamp across their  foreheads and reject them for their "intolerance". There is no longer an interest for absolute truth. The individual makes (and therefore changes) the rules, as they see fit. Nothing is set in stone. Everything can be altered, turned around and excused. Husbands can leave wives for someone younger because they choose to. Women can prance around with barely there clothes in order to express themselves or "make a statement". Children sue their parents. People change their genders. Liars create empires. Thieves walk out of courtrooms, unscathed...let the chaos begin!

We are told that there is freedom in doing however you please, but honestly, how well has that worked out for any of us? Truth be told, we need boundaries. We need guidance and instructions on how to live this life because, left to our own devices, we have the tendency to muddle things up.     As a college student, I came across many uncomfortable situations where I rejected those who tried to correct me, only to then experience the sting of being rejected by those whom I tried to correct later on down the road. It definitely is a catch 22. In the events of both experiences, love was always the motivator. People who loved me didn't want to see me continue down the path I had chosen because they knew it would end in devastation- which it did; but of course I didn't listen until it was too late. Once I began to walk in obedience and accountability in Christ, it became an urgency for me to want to help others avoid calamities as well.

When you love, it is a natural tendency to harold out warnings in efforts to help; but by doing so, we risk the displeasure of those for whom we love. It can be a very lonely life when we put ourselves in the position to speak truth to people who are only interested in living according to their own perceptions. The problem with perception however, is that it is only one sided. You can only see the situation based on your own awareness and biased notions. What seems like an oasis, could really just be a mirage and what appears to be gold, could really be nothing more than glass in the sand. Many of us know what it's like to be fooled by our own perception and misguided vision. We bear the disappointment of mistakes as the aftermath. But for those who have grown in spiritual maturity- they can see where other's can't and are in the position to lovingly lead us to truth, if we allow them. They can recognize that two eyes are better than one! Sometimes, this guidance occurs in the manner of advice, examples or correction, which is only ever for our good when it lines up with scripture.

Luke 17:3 tells us plainly to provide correction to our brothers and sisters when we see them doing wrong, but celebrate with them when they are doing right. It is our obligation to hold each other accountable and to allow others to take this position in our lives as well. The problem occurs, however when we tend to want to correct everyone else, but insist that we ourselves are always right- finding excuses to justify our own one-sided perceptions and circumstances. This is hypocrisy. It is dangerous and always futile. Ladies, we must learn to love encouragement as well as correction.

Remember, "Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in Him" (Proverbs 30:5 NIV). As we grow closer to the Lord, our hearts desire is to obey Him and trust Him, because we know He is good! This includes listening and learning from those He's placed around us, who are living according to His word. In my own recent experience, I have come across an area of my life where I needed correction and of course, no one wants that. It's easier to excuse it away, or sweep it under the rug. I came up with some  pretty good rationalizations and mentally justified my faults, but what good is it to live your life purposefully with one eye closed? Imagine! The opportunities on the right would never be available to us, if we kept our right eye closed and the experiences on the left would pass us by if we never opened our left eye.

All around us, God has placed people who love us and want to guide us into success and purposeful living. We pray for answers, but reject those that He places in our paths who are willing to guide us to those answers. We ask for confirmations, but we turn up our noses at individuals who love us enough to show us our faults. We beg for vision, but we deny the power that comes from the good examples that God places in our paths. The answer is there but who can see clearly with one eye closed? We need the guidance of those around us who can see clearly, through the lenses of scripture and proven
experiences.

Despite what our culture tells us, this life is not all about us. As members of the body of Christ, it is key that we support one another in love, while maintaining biblical standards and holding ourselves and each other accountable in truth. We each have goals and plans that we want to see accomplished, and there is nothing wrong with that. When we align ourselves with mature Believers, we can walk under a covering of continued prayer, support and direction. This life was never meant to be lived alone and isolated within our own efforts. The body needs both eyes to navigate clearly. On our own, we are limited; but when we align ourselves with others for the cause and sake of Christ, there can be no stopping us!

In our lives, lets begin to examine ourselves and look intently into the mindset that we carry: Are we so full of pride that we insist on living life with an "I"m going to do what I want to do" attitude? Do we live as if we are our own masters and in need of no one's help? How has that worked out for us in the past? If you've had success doing your own thing regardless of the consequences, then by all means...keep at it! But I'm confident to say that the majority of us have some emotional, spiritual and even physical scars from trying to live our life wholly based on our own perceptions. When you look over the past few years, was there a situation where you wish you had have listened to that person, or taken some advice more seriously? It's never too late to start living in accountability! In my experience, it is the gate God uses to keep us from the wolves!

I urge you to consider people in your life who could be your accountability partner. Pray and ask the Lord to guide you and usher in people who will love you and hold you up! Choose those who you know are living Godly and uncompromising lives for the Lord. By aligning yourself in obedience alongside with them and trusting God to use His love to guide you, you might start to notice that life is much more beautiful with both eyes wide opened!

Keep your eyes on Jesus!

Katrina McCain, President

Fashion For a Cause!!!

Fashion Beyond Borders.... It's that time again!!! We can't believe It was only 10 months ago that the beautiful community of Charlotte, NC, came together, raised thousands and donated it all to a little school in Roatan, Honduras!!! It was quite an amazing night for all parties involved and we are so excited to announce that we are gearing up for round 2!!!!

In addition to raising funds for global education, we are excited to announce that our proceeds will also be donated to Convoy of Hope in order to bless those in need as a result of the hurricane devastation.

We invite you to join us on December 2, 2017 at 7pm for FBB17!!! We are excited and honored to announce that this year's show will be hosted at the Hart Witzen Art Gallery. We will be showcasing NEW designers, NEW live musical performances by Branden Pierre, free hors d'oeuvres for all guests, door prizes, vendors, multiple giveaways and of course...FASHION!

If you know of any models interested in participating, please email us! Castings will take place October 7 from 1-4pm at Advent Coworking in Charlotte and October 8 from 3-5pm on 7Dundas Circle H in Greensboro.

If you are a vendor and would like to inquire about hosting a table, please email us (limited spaces available). If you are interested in volunteering as an intern or providing hair/makeup styling talent, please email us!

Tickets are on sale NOW!!! Again, all proceeds from this event will be donated! We look forward to another SOLD OUT show!!!

Sincerely,

Katrina McCain
Pearls of Hope Outreach 

The FBB Team

#FBBNC

Follow us on IG: @fashionbeyonborders @pearls_of_hope

Follow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/FashionBeyondBordersRunway/

 

Journey in the Waiting

“God is with you in your waiting: he has heard every prayer, listened to every cry, kept track of every sorrow.”- Ann Swindell

There are places in each of us that need the Lord's tenderness to attend to. None of us are completely whole. We have bruised hearts from past hurts, worries from present concerns and hopes for things that seem too far away for us to grasp. That's what the book, "Still Waiting" by Ann Swindell, is all about. In her debut book, Ann shares with her readers her personal story on waiting for God's healing. This past month, Pearls of Hope completed this book and embarked on a journey... a journey of waiting.

"But... how can you journey in waiting? Isn't that contradictory?", you might be wondering.

Well, for the first 3 chapters, I thought the same thing. Many of the girls expressed their confusion from the start because the book's focused seemed to be more on healing than on waiting. The author was courageous in sharing her personal story, though at times it felt as if she were stuck in her waiting for healing. But as we turned each page and found ourselves at the end of our 14th book, we realized that waiting is a journey, because it's in those places where we feel uncomfortable, unheard and forgotten, God begins to draw us nearer to Himself.

"We don't always understand what God does or doesn't do. But we always know- we always know-that he loves us"- Ann Swindell

Waiting is a journey, not just for us, but also for the Lord to come and minister to us with His healing, His hope and ultimately the tenderness of His love.

"Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest". -Matthew 11:28

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you"- James 4:8

In Christ, there is rest for our souls. In our waiting moments: when the next job seems forever away, in our singleness, in a lonely marriage or when we find ourselves begging God for conception, where ever we find ourselves waiting, God is right there with us! We never have to wait alone and the lessons that we learn in those moments that seem so stagnant, well, they propel us into the future that God had intended for us all along.

He loves us, especially in our waiting, and He invites us to allow Him to produce His presence in us, while He tends to the tender places that needs His gentle touch. So, in our waiting, while we ask for healing and direction, favor and victory, we know that we do not wait in vain. Our God loves us, and He is always for us!

Find rest for your soul in your waiting. You are never alone.

Katrina McCain, President

#betheshe

One of the most common conversations we find ourselves having with our families and friends is how can someone become who God wants them to become?

I think, at some point or another, we all find ourselves searching for the answer to that question. We all want to become who we were meant to be. We don't want our lives to be waisted or our dreams to go unrealized, but in Christ, we needn't have that fear.

Scripture promises us that we don't have to worry about our futures, our destinies or accomplishing our purpose, because God already has this under control and His will is that we be successful in this life when we trust Him with our lives.

"The Lord will accomplish what concerns me; Your lovingkindness, O Lord, is everlasting." -Psalm 138:8

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them"- Ephesians 2:10

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him, to those who are called according to His purpose"-Romans 8:28

We can each be the "She" who can accomplish all that God has for us. We can be the "She" who is brave to believe, who loves without limits and who grinds to accomplish the dreams that God has placed within her heart!

We are so proud to announce that we are selling our hand made necklace jewelry called, #BeTheShe, as a daily reminder of the "She" that we all want to be. With God, nothing is impossible! Please visit our shop and support us by purchasing your necklace today for yourself, your family and your friends!


Love,

Katrina McCain + Pearls of Hope

Radiant

"You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden". -Matthew 5:14

One of the most rewarding results of following Christ, is the ability to look back and see how far you've come! In our lives, relationships, faith and hearts, we know that God's hand has been apart of it all, because His light is undeniable.

Last weekend, we celebrated our 4th anniversary of spiritual growth, friendships and various accomplishments. We had the honor of gleaning from 3 amazing women of God and learning, from their experiences, how to hear and seek God's voice, even amidst distractions, internal short comings, concerns for the future and our desire for greatness in the present. You see, we are all on a journey, so none of our stories are complete yet! God is writing it all down and planning it all out, perfectly, all we need to do is trust Him and obey!

More and more, I am learning that being a Christian isn't about getting it all right, but it's more so about trusting that God's hand is in it all and that He will fulfill His promises, in due time. Perfection isn't possible until we see Jesus, but even in our imperfections, we can still shine!

We are called to be radiant, because our lives should reflect the radiance of Christ's unfailing love! It's not meant to produce fear of messing up, but rather encouragement that you are never alone! With each friendship we encounter, every scripture we read and any growth we receive, we can live out this faith in complete faith that we are becoming the women that God has purposed for us to be. This includes you! Wherever you are, whoever you and whatever you find yourself experiencing, even at this very moment, you have promise and purpose and the impacts of your life are meant to shine brightly for the whole world to see! None of us are exceptions to that calling! Christ's love is for us all; we simply have to embrace it and believe it!
If you need a friend, we are here. If you need encouragement, we hope that you won't hesitate to reach out to use, because we love you! Thank you for joining us in our journey! Blessings to you on yours!

Grateful

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. - James 1:7

A few weeks ago, we received a blessing in an unexpected way. For four years, Pearls of Hope has been meeting in living rooms and coffee shops, but now, as of April 30, 2017, we have OUR OWN LOCATION!

It reminds me of how important it is to be loving and uplifting, because you truly never know who is watching or who is being moved and impacted by your life, your words and your actions. 

Each of us has the power and the opportunity to bless others in extraordinary ways. Even if it's just to give a hug, or some positive encouragement, your love goes a long way and God promises that the blessings you give will most definitely come back to you (Luke 6:38).

In all our years of outreach, sharing, serving and loving, it's so humbling to know that our efforts didn't go unnoticed. We are sincerely thankful for the love of others, and we hope to continue to be a support, encouragement and shining light for the world to see!

Be Thankful and Give with your heart!
-Katrina McCain, President

The Cocoon Season

What do you do when you find yourself with unanswered prayers? What is your response when the choices you made don't seem to be adding up and your next move seems impossible to make?
Tonight, despite the rain, Pearls of Hope nuzzled into couches with coffee and confidence, discussing these exact life issues. "And We are Changed", by Priscilla Shirer was the book in everyone's hand and we couldn't help but bubble over with excitement over the subjects that were highlighted in our latest

read.

"Do you understand that when Jesus loves you, it doesn't matter how bleak your circumstances appear? It doesn't matter how dark life looks from the inside of the cocoon. He loves you...What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, God calls a butterfly"!

There are places and spaces in each of our lives where we feel as if we are unseen by God or we feel as if we are in a small confined experience, unable to move or see, discern or make productive choices. This is our cocoon season and we each find ourselves there from time to time. But we are never unnoticed by God. So often, we are so busy trying to bypass this season or skip it all together, because it's uncomfortable and sometimes even scary. But it is in the dark cocoon where the caterpillar is transformed!

"I want to be changed by God into what He wants for me. What we want is nothing compared to what His plans are and we can't miss out. If we miss out then we won't know what it's like to be that butterfly. It takes faith to endure the cocoon seasons, so we have to be prepared to pray more and trust God's process. The "cocoon season" spoke to me. It was my favorite part of the book and I wrote it on my mirror."- Brandi Joy Meyers

The discussion over this book as magnetic! One by one, each of us had comments to share on lessons we have learned or are continuing to learn. We laughed and joked, expressed our frustrations, encouraged each other and determined that, even in our dark times of confusion or anxious desires for what we hope will come, we can trust God to produce a beautiful change within us and bring us to the place where we can fly in our purpose and soar on the wings of His unfailing love!

Maybe you are in a cocoon season right now. You're not alone! You have so much promise! You are more than your circumstances! You are not defined by your current condition. The cocoon is not forever. It's only the end to a beautiful beginning! Christ has more in store for you than you could ever hope or imagine!

Believe God's truth with all of your heart and trust His process of transforming you into the beauty of His vision for you!

-Katrina McCain, President

Becoming Myself

One of the most beautiful things about being a woman, in my opinion, is the fact that we, culturally, have permission to scream when we see each other! Think about it... I mean, screaming isn't very appropriate in public. If I see a spider and I scream, people will look at me like I have lost all my senses. But if you get a group of ladies together and they start screaming, well, in most cases onlookers will respond with endearment: "Those sweet girls"!

Yes, I love being around women who scream, laugh, cry, and love... but mostly, I love being around women who love Jesus! I think that's why Pearls of Hope is so very special. Jesus is always in the midst!

For the month of February, we have been earnestly reading the book: "Becoming Myself" by Stasi Eldridge. Honey... if you have't read it... READ IT! From hormones, to husbands, to mother struggles and self-identity, this book covered just about every area that makes a woman, well...a woman. 

The premise of the book was that, if we truly want to unlock the self that we ever hope to be, it first and foremost starts with developing a relationship with the Lord. He is the One who made us, so He only understands who it is we were created to be, even though sometimes we aren't even sure ourselves. There are so many secret parts in our famine heart, but Stasi Eldridge calls us valiant! We are needed in this generation- where so many women in this culture are throwing themselves in harms way and devaluing the heart that Christ has placed in them, simply to gain the attention of strangers who don't even truly care for them. 

We all have lived below our God-given potential. We've all made poor choices and we all know what it's like to search for purpose and meaning. Some of us went about it through education, others used the medium of relationships or success or rebellion even. But no matter what we try to fill ourselves up with, in the end, we are always empty without Jesus. This book was such a sweet reminder that we have all been chosen by God: no matter your story.

As many of you know, we are a group of strongly opinionated women, and I enjoyed sitting back and listening to the comments, encouragement and life lessons that were poured out as we thumbed through our favorite parts of this book! I thank God for writers like Mrs. Eldridge and so many other "Big Sisters" that allow God's love to guide them as they help so many of us navigate through our walks with Jesus!

No matter who you are, or where you are going, it's never too late to embrace God's love for you and start seeing yourself through His eyes! No, you are not perfect, but He is perfectly able to perfect you into the image of Christ and love you as you become who He has created you to be!

Be encouraged my loves!

-Katrina McCain, President

Resting

2016 was a burn out year. Sacrifice proceeds success and boy were we successful! Mission trip, fundraisers, new members, interviews, national recognition, global contributions and a stellar fashion show... we were certainly busy! (Praise God!)

But, what comes up, must come down. And as we are entering this new year of 2017, The Lord, in His gentle way, has given us a new and fresh vision for this year: Rest.

In our busy and ever moving society, we tend to see this word, "rest", as a lazy term. To rest means to pause, to not do, to wait. We get anxious in the waiting and restless in the resting, but sometimes, that is the most dire state of being in order to hear more clearly from the Lord.

"Be still and know that I am God"! ~ Psalm 48:10

To know means to trust, to place one's belief in and to have confidence in. In our resting, we can have confidence that God is preparing our hearts for something great that only He can give. But we cannot expect to receive that vision if we are always busy.

Last year, was certainly full of success for us and no doubt, this year will be also. But success requires following the Lord (Proverbs 2:7). He is our guide to do what is right and fruitful. His voice is required to make sure we are following the paths to prosperity that He has purposed for us. And so, as we wait patiently on the Lord, we will be taking a look inwardly this year- focusing on our inner man, our personal relationships with God and with each other. We will be seeking the Lord for His voice, for His instruction and for His blessings and for the opportunities that He has in store for us.

I think we all need a good rest from time to time. We all need a little "me" time and we all need a lot of "God" time. When we spend ourselves on Him and place ourselves in dependency to know His desires and follow His instructions, we will not need to worry about the outcome. 

More of God and less of us!

Happy New Year to you all!

-Katrina McCain + Pearls of Hope

Thank You Charlotte!!!

After 5 months of preparations, it's hard to believe Fashion Beyond Borders is over! What a beautiful experience, with so many amazing people! Thank you to Anthony Simons of Plitzs Fashion Marketing for his direction and support! Thank you to our Designers: Sachhi Couture, The Defining Line, TLine Designs, Moniquea Renee, Malou Style, Nordstrom, Tara Davis and KoKo Nanga for a thrilling show of fashion and inspiring creativity! Thank you to all of the lovely and handsome models, who were kind, confident and so very professional! Thank you to each MAKEUP and Hair artist: EMRC, The Makeup Bully, Makeup by Onieka Cache and Derek Moser Hair! Thank you so much to Carolina Style Magazine for an incredible interview and to Erin L Hubbs for running and directing the Back Stage/BTS! Thank you also to Sachhi Event Center for allowing us to showcase at your venue. Thank you to our vendors: Fox Skynz by Melissa Davis and Mary Kay by Amani Dooley Wilkes! To SS Events, thank you for the tables, linen, chairs and lights. Thank you to Mi Amor Weddings for the gorgeous ceiling drapery and chandeliers and also a well deserved thank you to Elegant and Classy Wedding for providing the backdrop drapery. Thank you to 704Sign Printing and LW Designs for our graphics and Printing. A warm thank you to Simply Sweet and Olive Garden for the food! Thank you to Cyrus Speaks and Justin The Beloved for the entertainment and to DJ Hugo of iParty DJs for the music and good vibes! A special thank you to Samantha Pernell for hosting! Thank you to Off Broadway, Fashion&Compassion, Simply Ashleigh, DMone Jewelry, Pretty Southern and Darrell Roach for contributing the giveaway and auction pieces! Thank you to all of our media: Tyrone Combs, Brandi Myers Photography, Mr. Soc, Crys Fararr and Sheldon Lazzare! From the bottom of our hearts, thank you also to Pearls of Hope for their inspirational desire to give love and kindness in the world! Together, we can do amazing things!!!! Thank you guests, family and friends! We sold out against the odds and raised $2,241!!!! What a blessing this will be for The Merino School! We did it, together! Thank you!!!

Fashion and Compassion

As we approach the date of our first, community wide fundraiser, we must say thank you to a very special organization that has truly been a blessing to us. Fashion & Compassion, a non-profit, jewelry & accessories brand is located in Charlotte, NC. They were so kind as to invite us to host a collaborative "Jewelry Party", to help us raise money and spread the word about our Fashion Beyond Borders Fundraiser!!

Fashion & Compassion seeks to fulfill their mission by connecting caring consumers with vulnerable artisans to bring dignity through economic empowerment.Their hope and goal is to provide dignified jobs to women in vulnerable communities around the world. In addition to providing employment, they also donate ALL net proceeds to Ministry Partners, to further meet the needs of he communities they serve. Such communities include the U.S., Uganda, Sudan, Honduras, Ecuador and Ethiopia!

Today was a day of inspiration, prayer and encouragement! Thank you, truly, to Celeste and the Fashion&Compassion team for sharing your story and your space with us! Your encouragement has meant to much and we truly pray for another opportunity to share with you in the near future! If you are ever in Charlotte, please stop by and meet these beautiful women who empower other women, one life at a time! "Share and Do Good"!

Community Support for our Fundraiser!!!

Last Saturday, in Charlotte, and Sunday, in Greensboro, the ladies of Pearls of Hope Outreach met with many models around the North Carolina area, who came out in efforts to support our cause for students in Honduras. 50 models of all ethnicities and degrees of fashion experience walked the runway, in hopes of being selected to represent Fashion Beyond Borders! It was an exciting atmosphere and we are so thankful to everyone who attended!

"I'm here because I want to make a difference in the world. I'm not just a model, I'm a person and I want others to know that it doesn't matter how you look or where you come from. Everybody is special and I want to share that message in any way that I can", says one model who came out in Charlotte.

Anthony Simons of Plitzs Fashion Marketing, Erin L. Hubbs, photographer of Charlotte Style Magazine, as well as Olivia Pires, Franklin Terry and Katrina Chief, local models from the area, also came to give their support of this show! It was a beautiful experience and only marks the progression of this beautiful event!

If you are a model and missed the casting, but would like to submit, it's not too late! Pleas shoot us an email by October 14 for more information!

Fundraising for Honduras!!!

As our world becomes increasingly smaller, due to technology, we each are more aware and exposed to various circumstances and situations beyond that of our own front doors. As it has been mentioned as of late, our Millennial Generation has tipped the scales of global awareness and has propelled the focus of our social and political environments toward the need for responsible involvement regarding prominent issues, such as education and human rights.

With this being said, it is of no surprise that people would wonder why we have chosen to support The

Merino School in Honduras, out of all the other thousands of causes in the world and in our own country. The truth of the matter, is that Honduras is our passion, because the students and faculty represent all of us- they represent the world.

The families that we worked with last March, in Honduras, all had hopes for their children to accomplish more in their lifetimes. Each student had goals and dreams of success, and openly shared with us their fears for the future and their desire to make something of themselves. Only 43 percent of children enrolled in public schools in Honduras even complete the primary level. Of all children entering the first grade, only 30 percent go on to secondary school, and only 8 percent continue to the university. This is all due to a lack of resources and support.

If even we can raise only enough to help one child, what a difference would result in their life! Positive change can occur in ways we can't even imagine, and it doesn't take much effort.. simply a small act of kindness. One child can change one family and one family can change one community! One community can change others and the snow ball effect of positive results could have impacts across the whole world! Change never occurs by thinking... it occurs by doing. Fashion Beyond Borders Runway Charity Show is our efforts to act and to do what we can, in order to bring small change, in hopes that small changes will evolve into larger changes. Individually, our ideas are limited, but together, we can all do our part to change lives!

Please support us by purchasing your ticket for this show and sharing the message of God's love and          positive change with your family and friends! 

How to Shade the SHADE

SHADE: 
using words and actions in a casual or disrespectful manner towards someone; dissing a friend; coming for someone.

Synonyms: gossip; slander

-Urban Dictionary




SHADE!!!!! We all throw it from time to time- from one end of the room to the other (either knowingly or unknowingly). It's funny, though, right? Best served over a beverage with friends, or on the phone when there is nothing better to do.

"But did she use a mirror first?"

"I guess that's clearly over!"

"Let me sip my tea, while I don't help her this time!"

"No shade, but where did she get those clothes?"

Literally, I am even giggling now with thoughts of shade I've over heard or even thrown, myself!
We all know what gossip is, of course, and that is exactly what shade is! Its a gossip when done in private, and slander when done in public. It happens when we say rude, condescending and mean things about people, either out of entertainment or out of bitterness. It can happen on purpose or out of instinctive reaction and it can occur in different forms: When we tell a secret with the intensions of entertaining ourselves with someone else's business or if we spread a half-truth or a whole truth that no one really needs to know about.
It's one thing to be informative, but another thing to share information that is unnecessary, unhelpful and unkind. So, basically, our motive determines whether information crosses the line between truth and shade.

The Bible has plenty to say about the topic:

"A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much". (Proverbs 20:19) 

"Do not go about spreading slander among your people". (Leviticus 19:16) 

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." (Proverbs 15:1) 

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth". (Ephesians 4:29) 

Any of us who have the gift of gab or who enjoy a good laugh with friends, have found ourselves at one time or another, involved in a Shade exchange. Based off of the scriptures we just reviewed, we know this is wrong, but the Bible doesn't stop with "thou shalt not".... It also provides us with positive alternatives.

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)

"Do not return evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. For, the one who desires life, to love and see good days, must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from speaking deceit." (1 Peter 3: 9-10)

There are multiple consequences when we speak unkindly, but the sad part is that throwing shade has become an intricate part of our daily conversations. In fact, we are practically encouraged to act shady, be shady and find shady people whom we can be shady with! Thats one of the reasons why TV shows like The Real Housewives are so popular! We, as a culture, enjoy the loom of shade! But, in reality, it has the unfortunate disposition of ruining relationships, trust and feelings. We can swear that we mean no harm, but does harm hurt less when it's unintended? I wonder... if we were to ever walk in on a shade fest in our honor, would we truly be honored by the words we would hear? I'd like to think that the answer would be, "no".
Engaging with one another in love, in encouragement and in motivation requires cleaning up our language, weather it be cussing, gossip, lying or SHADE. This might be the hardest challenge, because words are sometimes expressed without thought. In the moment, we may not even realize how it is coming across or the damage that our words can potentially have on ourselves or others. James 3:8 tells us that no one can "tame the tongue".

"If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless" (James 1:26).

Basically, what this means is that our words mirror our hearts. If we say we love God, that we care about others, that our hearts have good intentions, then this will be exposed by the words we use and say. Out of the heart, the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45). This is why, on a daily basis, we must ask the Lord to search our hearts and know our thoughts (Psalm 139:23). If we are to be people of excellence and women with standard, then the Shade has got to go. And this is done by filling our hearts with beautiful thoughts, lovely words and pure intentions.

The changing of our hearts, our words and our motives is not an automatic process. It takes intentional attempts and consistency in motivation. We must seek out opportunities to speak well and kind, and avoid opportunities to throw shade. So, this week, lets all take the challenge to tell a friend, a co-worker or a family member how much you appreciate them. Give compliments and positive messages. Send someone an encouraging note. Tell somebody you're thinking about them. Trade in the shade for something that will be uplifting and encouraging. Let people know that you are praying for them and show them how much you care! If you see an issue or a need, don't talk about them or make jokes at their expense, ask them if there is any way you could help. There are all kinds of ways to "be kind and compassionate to one another." In this way, we are building our relationships, not tearing them down!

Speak well, my loves. Speak truth, speak life and do it all to the glory of God!

~Pearls

Temptation Does not Disqualify You!

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.~

Hebrews 12:1-3

What is the goal and mission of the life of a Christian?  Is it just to go to church? To read you Bible? To do good things and say kind words?
Truth be told, you don't have to be a Christian to do those things! In fact, there are many different faiths who teach on the similar and simplistic values of what we have considered to be "Christian". There are unspoken social rules that will praise your for doing what is kind and fair, and condemn you for anything less. There are even good natured Atheists who make a habit of preforming such routines in their own lives, without the help of the Holy Spirit and without the salvation of Jesus. So, when you think about it, doing good things is not the crux of the Christian's purpose. Our good deeds are not more valid than someone who is not a Christian and our temptations are not fouls that disqualify us from our faith. We have been called to live above the positives and negatives that seek to distract us from our true purpose.

Goodness, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. What is good for someone doesn't mean it is good for everyone. And what was good yesterday is not guaranteed to be good today. This is how temptation enters our lives: by trying to convince us that our goodness is the standard and the measure by which God accepts me. But, according to scripture, this is far from truth. God's acceptance of me is totally based on my acceptance of Christ. When I am focused on His heart, then temptation will have no power within mine!

So, considering the scripture, how is it that we can develop our hearts to stay focused on Jesus and avoid the trap and the distraction of trying to be good? First, we must understand that focusing on Jesus doesn't mean that temptations around us will disappear. There will still be issues to face, habits to break and thoughts to battle. This is not a measure of your goodness or of your Salvation. 1 John 5:11-12 tells us that our Salvation is wrapped up in God's goodness through Jesus. If we have Salvation in Christ, then we need not fear temptation. Instead, we must use perseverance, just as Jesus persevered while He was on Earth. There were plenty of temptations, including His trial in the wilderness, when the enemy tried to tempt him (Matthew 4: 1-11). Yet in this distraction He kept His eyes on the mission- on His heavenly Father.

Hebrews 12 also brings forth another key element to staying focused: we must throw off everything that might hinder us, as well as the sins that seem to always try to get the best of us. For everyone , this will be different. Each of us struggle in different areas. My issues and temptations are different from yours. Your struggles are different from your co-workers and your co-worker's struggles will be different from their neighbors. Each of us have struggles that are uniquely specific to our own hearts and lives. Yet ALL SIN will hinder us from staying focused on Jesus and if we are not focused on Jesus, we will find ourselves drowning in temptation and ineffective for the ministry in which He has called us to complete for the Kingdom.

If goodness is the standard, then what is our need for Christ? Temptation cannot be battles by our good efforts or our positive affirmations. Jesus alone can keep us from falling, but we must keep our hearts on him! Anything that removes Christ as our priority is a hindrance to our relationship with Him, and if we are not living out our salvation in an effective manner, we are in danger of becoming a temptation for others who are watching our lives. Believers and  Non-believers are watching your life and according to this scripture, so are those Christians that have already gone before you. We are always surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses... they are cheering us on and they want us to be successful in our relationship with Christ and in our spiritual development here on earth. Even the non-believer wants to see you successful, because they are looking for something authentic. They are watching the closest because they are looking for reasons to hope and believe.

We can be "good" on our own, but there is no life change in that. Understanding that loving Jesus is not about our goodness gives us a better appreciation of God's grace, because, eventually, we will all fall in one area or another. But, when we move past a selfish faith- a faith that is only motivated by what we can get for our lives, we become humbled in the fact that we must keep our eyes, our hearts and our lives focused on Jesus. The mission is not to receive blessings, opportunities and prosperity for ourselves; our highest mission is to show the world what Love really looks like. And His name is Jesus!
Every rose has it's thorns, but that does not disqualify its beauty! We must persevere through our blessings and in our pains (and there will be many hard times), but we don't have to be afraid of our struggles or temptations, because we know that all things will work together for our good, if we only keep our focus on the Lord! (Romans 8:28). This is where our Joy comes from! Knowing that in my victory, I am encouraged, but in my weakness, God gives me His strength! Either way, we win! But, we must lay aside those things that will hinder and distract us, and
we must be sensitive to the lives that surround us- using us as their examples in the faith and looking to us as models for Christ.

Living as Christ is not a natural way of life- this is why we rely on His Holy Spirit to give us the strength and love that we need to be successful! So don't worry, God has it all under control! When you fall, confess your mess and keeping pressing on! Don't get distracted by trying to be good and don't allow your temptations to steal your confidence in Christ!!! Focus on God's love for you and let that be your motivation and your focus. I promise, it will fill your heart and spill over into the lives of those around you!
  

Be encouraged!

~Pearls

Prayer is Not Passive!

It seems to me that there is much hostility towards the response of prayer. People seem offended and at times, even disgusted, when the call for prayer is made. Yet, as believers, we know that nothing in Heaven will be fulfilled on Earth, unless we call out to God in prayer. 

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land" - 2 Chronicles 7:14

As individuals, a generation and a nation, it seems to be that we have declared war against prayer when it doesn't work for us. But we need to clearly recognize what prayer is and what it is not. Prayer, according to God and His scripture (the manufacturer of prayer) makes it clear that first, we must humble ourselves and then second turn from any wrong doing that we may be practicing. The results of doing both is a miraculous move of God.

From my own personal experiences, and I cannot speak for everyone, my Father instilled in me from my early ages that prayer was a necessity. He would volunteer me to pray in our home, as well as in church. My father surrounded our family with prayer in every opportunity imaginable- weather it be over our homework, over our travels, over our social issues in school, our food, our family... you name it, my Father would lead us in prayer over it. With that being said, I grew up with such a comfort to pray that I don't think I ever considered the honor and privilege that prayer really holds in the life of a true believer.

I remember a sermon my Father once taught and a quote of his that I wrote down in my Bible, many, many years ago. He said, "Prayer is not a tool that we use to change God's mind, it is a gift God uses to change our hearts". That has always stuck with me. You see,  prayer is a gift that God gives us to use, continuously, because He wants us to include Him in all of our affairs. God loves us and wants to be involved in our living. Like any relationship, communication (prayer) is vital. If we expect to see God change things, move things, bring healing, bring salvation, send answers and reveal truths, we must be in prayer... and, even more so, we must make sure that we are praying effectively.
We must check our hearts, to make sure it is lined up with the word of God and that we do not have cherished sin in our lives (Ps. 66:18). We must make sure that what we pray is lined up with God's will, which is His word (John 15:7). We must come with a confidence that we believe that God is able to work His will in our lives, through our faith, prayers and lifestyle that reflect Him (Hebrews 14:16). When we pray, we must be humble, knowing that our God is mighty and sovereign over all (2 Chronicles 7:14).

And when we prayer, we must be prepared for what ever answer we recieve, because an answered prayer is not always a "yes". But we know that all things will work together for our good, according to God's plans for us, if we love Him and stay obedient (Romans 8:28). whatever our plans are...His are much better!
No plan that we could ever hope to come to pass will ever exceed God's plans for us. As children of God, it should be our natural response in every area of our lives: as women, as students, as daughters, wives, friends, sisters, professionals. Prayer should be our first response because we know that God is our first responder! Prayer, like breathing, must become an intricate part of our spiritual and natural lifestyle. Not to manipulate situations to please us, but rather to align our hearts with God to please Him!

 As Jim Cymbala put it, "prayer is the barometer by which one can gauge the spiritual maturity of another". In other words, a Christian who understands their calling, Christ's expectations and who longs to be effective for the Kingdom will invest themselves in prayer- not because they have to, but because they understand that they need to. Prayer is not passive... it is the initiation of spiritual action which is what is truly necessary if we ever hope for any change or direction in our lives, in our families or in our country.
I am not perfect, as no one is. I do not have all the answers, as no one does, but I am now understanding and appreciating prayer in an entirely new way. I am a woman who wants to be a warrior... a prayer warrior! I don't not want my life to be lived silently, but I want to shine like a beacon in the night! God has given us all what we need to shatter sin and evil that haunts this world, but to talk first and pray last is unproductive. We can prayer with confidence while talking with conviction! And this is what we must do! All of us! It is a shame how the church has grown so silent! Where is our courage and our bravery? Where are our shouts around Jericho?

Ladies, you have more power in prayer than you ever will in gossip! We have more power seeking God, then we ever will have seeking comfort. Let's not be afraid to stand up for truth! Let's not be so discouraged that we won't lift up our voices to our God who loves us! We are not here on accident! Our existence in this generation was very calculated and purposeful. Now, you and I must go and put this calling to use. We must be the one who is willing to stand in the gap for those who cannot stand on their own. We must be willing to go into battle for our nation, our unsaved family, friends and for the future. We are each privileged and purposed to do just that, now more than ever! I am a woman on a mission, and I need prayer to accomplish all the hopes and dreams that Christ has instilled in me. Will you join me? Can we do this together?

I thank God for prayer and for the power that is required to operate a sincere prayer life. My prayer for all of you is that you learn the joy of coming to the Father, not only on behalf of yourself, but for others who are relying on the strength of your prayers to get them through. Be used of God, today and each day forward. Remember, He loves you and He is waiting to be invited in our circumstances, struggles and aspirations.

Prayer is not passive. Let's take action, together!
~Pearls

Strength is Evident in the Crisis

 It's the normal assumption that good deeds should be rewarded: Going to college should get you a good job, being respectful should earn you respect, showing yourself friendly should earn you lots of friends. In some cases, this is true. But spiritually thinking, it's honestly when we are doing what is right when wrong comes to pay us a visit! This is why, more and more, we are hearing the buzz that Christianity "doesn't work". No body wants to endure unpleasantries or discomfort. We want a quick fix and the least amount of effort, difficulty or struggle in our lives.  If something seems laborious or tedious, we try to avoid it. It is a debilitating mistake to assume that being  christian means that only blessings lay in store for you and I honestly blame the pulpit. There are so many messages being spewed from sanctuaries that following Christ results in financial abundance, opportunity and continuous prosperity in every endeavor one would seek to pursue. But when we look to scripture, we see that this is simply not the case. Giving our hearts to Jesus is like signing our name for warfare. From the start, we automatically have the victory, in Christ, but my sister, understand there will be hard times ahead.

As a result of the disciples following Jesus, they lost their social standing, their homes, their families and their wealth. Peter, James and John lost their fishing career, Paul lost his political status, Mary lost her good reputation and John the Baptist lost his head! But see, they knew that greater glory was worth the risk. It is my passion not to fall prey to the misconception that problems disappear once I follow Jesus because if I am only following Jesus for what I think I can get out of it, then that is not true Christianity; that is not true devotion.
In our earthy relationships, we are taught to date people who can make us happy, meet our needs, show us a good time and make us feel good about ourselves. And sadly, this perspective has crept into the church, where we then have projected this same expectation on Christ: "If I serve God then He has to bless me and give me the desires of my heart and lead me into my purpose and give me favor and keep me on the mountain top and make a way out of no way for me..."!
My loves, if God does nothing else but just pour His grace and mercy on us, that is more than enough! We must check the motives of our hearts and remember that Jesus suffered for our sakes... is it too much that He expects our willingness to do the same for Him? And if that time ever comes, do we love Him enough to be strong and courageous throughout the storm? Or will we jump ship when the boat feels too rocky? Are we equipping ourselves to fight through faith? Are we strong soldiers or simply spiritual civilians on the sidelines?

It has always been my personal belief that strength is evident in the crisis, not in the oasis. Yes, we

can feel uplifted in church, when the choir sings our song, but what happens in the real life situations? Are we prepared to stand firm in the midst of the fire? Do we posses the courage we need to combat our struggles and win the battles that each day has in store for us? We can declare all we want, but the truth of our hearts beam brightest in the dark.
I am reminded of what my father has always told me, "the mark of a strong relationship is in the arguments. You don't know what type of man you are dealing with until he becomes angry. The actions, words, and attitude that he displays in his anger is the true refection of what is already in his heart". So, the first argument I had with my boyfriend (now husband), he still held my hand and he still opened my door for me; he still kissed me good night and he still said, "Ill call you tomorrow". He was pissed, but still showed love. He could have said, "look, I'm not trying to deal with all of this". He could have jumped ship, especially because that particular argument was my fault! But, he showed strength and courage. It's easier to walk away, because walking away doesn't require any work. In fact, it is selfish and self is only interested in what is minimal effort. Self is seeking the blessing, but not the effort. Self is only wanting what is pleasing to me- never mind you, until I am satisfied. Sadly, we have been so accustomed to holding others in this regard, that it begins to pour out into our relationship with Christ. Instead of fighting for our faith, we walk away in pursuit of our comfort. We can spiritually choose to go A-wall on our salvation because, it's easier. But we have not been called to an easy life in Christ. We have been called to a victorious life! The temptations and distractions of this world seem immense. At times, it doesn't even look possible that we can overcome the trials that so many of us face, but greater is He who is in you, than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4)!

We don't want to suffer or wait. We don't want to practice patience or the integrity that is produced in difficult times. We don't want to be inconvenienced. But all of that is necessary if we ever hope to experience the glory that awaits in Christ! It's easy to do things the easy way, but the results of easy are never long lasting. To walk in purity and truth, kindness and forgiveness, patience and graciousness, in the midst of chaos and unpleasantries... this is true strength and undeniable courage! It is the call of each Christian, as she lives out her daily life and makes her life choices: Do I press on in this storm maintaining the likeness of Christ, or do I find an easy way out and avoid the difficulties?

Self preservation will always be the death of us! It will kill our opportunities to shine like Jesus! It will destroy the seed that God is growing in you and will close the door to the destination of your purpose and calling. Every struggle, trial, dilemma and hardship we endure when we choose to do what pleases the Lord makes us stronger in this life and prepares us for the next. Remember, all suffering is seasonal. It doesn't last forever, but the glory and the rewards that await are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17)! Each season sets our path for the next journey, but through it all, God is there. He is preparing, pruning, growing and digging up all that He desires for us. He is the vine and we are the branches (John 15:5)! In order for the flowers to grow, the earth must first be broken. The soil must be turned over, so that the roots will grow deep and produce the garden. But if the earth is unwilling to go through it's season of brokenness, then it will never have the opportunity to display any beauty.
There is so much beauty that God wants to produce in you! But you and I cannot be afraid to sojourn through the war. This is where His word has the platform to truly ring in our hearts and produce the choices, decisions and reactions that are necessary to give Him the Glory- ultimately blessing us in the process! We cannot be afraid to fight in the battle, because we have already won the victory, and freedom is ours, in Christ!

"Thanks be to God! He has given us the victory through our Lord, Jesus Christ!" ~ 1 Corinthians 15:57

Be Strong and Courageous! Don't avoid the trials or the storm. God is growing a garden and wants to put you on display! Your victory is in Jesus and through Him, you are a champion!

Stay strong, my sisters! And Happy Independence day to you all!
~Pearls