Category: christianity

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Is It Time To Uplevel Your Life

“Simply be the qualities you seek in others.”
Is there someone that you admire personally or professionally? Is there a colleague or friend that has certain qualities that you desire to exhibit more of in your life?
If this holds true for you, what actions can you take to move from your current reality to the desired reality that you want. Is it as simple as taking the appropriate steps to mimic what you see in others, or do you need to create a more structured plan to make to make it happen.
Personally, I am working on intentionally strengthening the qualities of curiosity, spontaneity, and adventure in my life. Years of overbooking my schedule and failing to prioritize, caused these attributes to become basically nonexistent.
For me curiosity involves traveling to places that I’ve never been, seeking out alternative ways to work and experience financial freedom. Spontaneity and adventure resemble taking the trip prior to feeling burned out and overwhelmed.
On Friday, August 4th at 11:30am, I am hosting a Lunch and Learn Planning Session with step-by-step guidance on how you can move from your current reality to the life you desire. Join me to get the 5-step blueprint, which can be applied to all areas of your life where change is desired.
Let me help you find your #originsofpeace. Email melissa_rivers@originsofpeace.com to receive the meeting details.
Make Peace Your Priority,
Melissa
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Greater Than What I See….

 

Tribulation is a term that can mean trouble or affliction of any kind.

I don’t know about you, but my excitement level around experiencing tribulation is pretty much non-existent.

There is absolutely nothing fun about it……………….it is often painful, isolating and just plan hard.

I am learning to use my feelings about different tribulations that I experience, as a sign of self-awareness.

I’ve begun asking myself, what type of support do I need in order to get through the situation?

While I am very aware that those feelings of pain and isolation are most likely temporary, it sure feels like an eternity when you are experiencing them.

I thank God for Romans 8:24, because within it I am made aware of the hope for something greater…..

Greater than the hurt

Greater than the isolation

Greater than the disappointment

Greater than……..

More often than not, tribulation is not directly about you, but it is definitely for you.

Acknowledging your feelings about an experience creates a truthful space that allows you to see more deeply into your own needs and perceptions.

Yes, tribulation can create an awareness of what you need in order to make it through, but it can also make you aware of your hidden judgement toward others.

#somethingtoconsider

Tribulation produces Patience

Patience produces Experience

Experience produces Hope

This week I challenge you to use the knowledge that you gained about yourself when you were experiencing a trying time, AND THEN extend those lessons learned to others who are experiencing tribulation as well.

#originsofpeace

 

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Draw A Circle Around The Things You Love

What do you love and how do you keep it sacred?
Anyone or anything that is near and dear to my heart has a specific prayer strategy attached to it.
This is important to me now more than ever because the world is different, people are different and the expectations that are placed upon us can be quite daunting.
It can be A lot!
No matter how challenging times may seem, if I hold something sacred to my heart, I tend to protect it…sometimes more than I should.
                                                                           I can be guilty of protecting relationships that I have no business entertaining.
With this being the case, I place everything that is near to me in a prayer circle. I identify it as something special and then I create specific prayers around it.
My prayers include guidance to know if I should protect it, nurture it or eliminate it.
It is extremely important to classify accordingly. My circle includes family, friends, acquaintances, career & business and anything else that is significant to me.
I am definitely not a “good vibe” only type of person. I believe in genuine interactions and meaningful connections, however; when I’m done, I am done for real.
                           BUT TRULEY, I tell you, if anything that is within my circle allows outside influences to deteriorate what we have, a realignment is in order.
                As we prepare for Love & Culture Month (February), let’s get clear about what is important. If it is important to you, you should be important as well.
                                                                                                   What’s in your circle and do you have a prayer strategy for it?
On February 1st I will begin re-reading the book Draw the Circle The 40 Day Prayer Challenge.
Want to join me?  
We can check in with one another every 8 days or so to see how things are going and to discuss the revelations that are being shown to us.
Will you join me? Grab your copy here.
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Developing A Growth Mindset

Join me for a dose of Spiritual Wellness…

Bible Study – Rahab: Developing a Growth Mindset
Tuesday, November 22nd
7:00pm – 8:00pm
Rise Up! From Adversity to Anointed. In 𝘋𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘎𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘵𝘩 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘴𝘦𝘵, you will learn how to recognize those “Crimson Soul Moments” of life where your current reality and desired future collide.

Together we will discover how Rahab shed the negative labels and embraced a new mindset.

TEXT: James 2:25 & Joshua 2:1-21

This event is open to the public.   No RSVP required. Join us via Zoom.

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Let’s talk about Creative Freedom 

Happy Sunday to you!

Today I am sharing one final lesson from my eBook Pray with Ease.

Creative Freedom 

Exercising Creative Freedom is much like wandering and exploring.

Have you ever taken a long walk in the woods or through a botanical garden? Maybe you’re adventurous and like to hike alongside a mountain waterfall.

When you have creative freedom in God’s word, it’s much like an exploration. You can freely move at your own pace and immerse yourself in everything that is around you while expressing your gratitude for the experience. 

Creative Freedom allows you to be bold, powerful and intentional. Once you set your intentions and find your Energy Enhancers take a moment to immerse yourself in the words. Explore the scriptures and feel the inspiration that is embedded within. 

Focused Intention + Energy Enhancers + Creative Freedom = The Ability to Pray with Easy

You are now ready to pray those bold, powerful, impactful prayers!

Here is a list of a few of my favorite tools for enhancing spiritual wellness: 

  • T.D. Jakes Woman Thou Art Loosed Bible 

  • The Bible Experience Old & New Testament 

  • Woman Evolve by Sarah Jakes Roberts

  • Journal & Writing Pen 

I wish you great success in all of your endeavors.

Stay in the know:

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: (1) Melissa Rivers – YouTube

Sign up for my email list: Origins of Peace, LLC – Continuous Improvement Coach, Personal Development Mentor, Professional Growth Educator! (melissaarivers.com)

Peace,

Melissa – Your Creative Peace Coach

www.originsofpeace.com

If you desire individual coaching to help enhance your spiritual wellness email me directly at melissa_rivers@originsofpeace.com

Sponsorship Opportunity

Sponsor a breast cancer Survivor for our Sister Support Circle in need.

Give her the gift of inclusion and belonging by financially supporting a survivor who would enjoy this opportunity to grow.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Heal Recover Grow Incorporated, a non-profit agency dedicated to assisting women who have experienced breast cancer, job loss or divorce re-engage in society as skillful, confident and empowered citizens by offering, self-improvement opportunities, skills development classes and mentoring relationships. 

There are several ways to donate:

  • Cash App: $originsofpeace07 

  • PayPal: paypal.me/originsofpeace 

  • US Mail: P.O. Box 481599 Charlotte, NC 28269. Check or money order made out to Origins of Peace. 

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Are You A Survivor…

If so, join our Sister Support Circle

Every breast cancer Survivor needs a support circle.   It’s time to find yours.

Your circle should be filled with those who are rooting for you when you feel down, who sit with you when you don’t feel well and who push you when you fail to show up as your best self. A breast cancer Survivor is already powerful – but when survivors who are determined to thrive become a collective, great things always happen.

  • Are you a woman who has survived breast cancer?

  • Are you ready to find and connect with your sister support circle?

  • Do you find it challenging to get genuine support and find people who can empathize with you?

  • Are you ready to offer the support that you are desperately in need of?

If you can relate to any of the questions above, join us for the Sister Support Circle. This exclusive event is especially for woman breast cancer Survivors to unite through a common bond, gain support from other Survivors, and foster a life-long support network.

Mark Your Calendar for the following dates:

  • October 5th

  • October 12th

  • October 19th

  • October 26th

  • November 9th

  • December 14th

There is a $100 dollar investment to join. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

You can expect to experience the following:

  • Become an empowered survivor

  • Gain empathy and support from like-minded sisters

  • Increase your happiness and awareness

  • Find a safe space to share your thoughts

  • Regain your confidence

  • Make lasting friendships

  • Improve your sense of belonging

The Sister Support Circle only has 5 openings in 2022. Sign up now to reserve your spot.

Upon registration you will receive a welcome kit and next steps on how to join the circle.

Your welcome kit includes the following key items as well as other essentials to celebrate your arrival into the circle.

  • Manifesting your Intentions Journal

  • Herbal TEA Variety Pack

  • Weekly Affirmation Cards

  • Instructions on how to make the most of each week and attract the support you need from the circle

Sponsorship

Do you know a Survivor?  If so, you can…

Sponsor a sister in need. You can Sponsor a woman to join this unique circle.

Give her the gift of inclusion and belonging by financially supporting a survivor who would enjoy this opportunity to grow.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Heal Recover Grow Incorporated, a non-profit agency dedicated to assist women who have experienced breast cancer, job loss or divorce re-engage in society as skillful, confident and empowered citizens by offering, self-improvement opportunities, skills development classes and mentoring relationships. 

There are several ways to donate:

  • Cash App: $originsofpeace07 

  • PayPal: paypal.me/originsofpeace 

  • US Mail: P.O. Box 481599 Charlotte, NC 28269. Check or money order made out to Origins of Peace. 

Thank you for donating to this worthwhile effort.

Your donation is nonrefundable, and it is not tax-deductible. 

 

Great health is the greatest wealth!

Melissa

 

 

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Wakanda Forever!

It has taken me a few days to compose this post. I’ve started and stopped numerous times, overwhelmed by the emotional burden that has presented itself with the loss of Mr. Chadwick Boseman.

I am seriously grieving this man and the loss of his life. I didn’t know him personally but I know a cancer diagnosis personally and watching my uncle rapidly decline from colon cancer, I’ve felt that journey, and it’s a hard one.

To reflect on the many accomplishments of Mr. Boseman in spite of his diagnosis is an absolute honor. cancer has a way of making you feel small, fearful, inadequate, weak and incapable. Five years after my diagnosis and I still struggle with the anxiety of it all.

I commend Mr. Boseman for living out loud and giving black people something to believe in and to strive for, through his many roles. Tonight I watched Black Panther along with much of the nation. I’ve seen it a few times before, but tonight I watched with pride and reverence. I appreciated the land and the waterfalls, the sunsets and all the imagery that make that movie spectacular! Wakanda means possibility to me and Wakanda Forever means “Oh the Possibilities!” https://youtu.be/r8nxdAGg2FY

Tonight I was reminded to show up even when I do not feel like it, stop over-thinking and serve my purpose.

I pray that we all learn to live out loud in the possibilities.

#RIPChadwickBoseman

“To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen”. Jude 1:24-25

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Making Accommodations

Heeyy Origins of Peace Family!

I pray life has been good to you and good for you! I am slowly getting back into the groove of things after a looonnnnggg holiday hiatus. Real quick, let’s check in, how are you doing?

I know this time of the year can be a bit overwhelming because everyone is attempting to live their best life and construct the perfect Vision Board. It can become a bit much.

I did things a little different this year, as far as creating my Vision Board. I decided to allow my Spirit Needs to be the governing body for all that I manifest this year. That means I’ve chosen 4 Scriptures to guide me in all things Melissa…personal and professional. I have 4 overall objectives to accomplish: 1. Celebrate the good things daily, 2. Maximize my health, 3. Do more of what I love and 4. Grow my business.

I’ve listed several goals under each objective to help me achieve them. I turned my goals into an Action Plan that I visit and review daily. I’ve learned that I need to be more specific in asking for what I want, and Make Accommodations to receive!

I’ve already met my January financial goal for my business!

It’s not enough to have good intentions and an Action Plan. You need a good word to stand on. You need a good scripture or quote that will help you get through the challenging times when things begin to look bleak. I’ve chosen 4 Scriptures that are my building and stumbling blocks for 2020. If I start to stumble I want to rest in the assurance that I am stumbling on a good word – Amen!

Here are my 4 Scriptures. You can feel free to use the same four or find others that will help you Make Accommodations to receive!

  1. Philippians 4:8 – Whatever is honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent and worthy of praise..think about these things
  2. 3 John 1:2 – Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.
  3.  Hebrews 1:14 – Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?
  4. Philippians 4:19 – And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

I want to hear from you! Have you created a Vision Board for 2020, if so how do you feel about it? Has it been beneficial so fare? If you haven’t created a Vision Board, what’s stopping you? Comment below and tell me what’s on your mind.

Peace,

Melissa

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The Makings of You

Hi there & Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope everyone is doing well and feeling great! I am excited to share today’s post with you. As promised, I am focusing on song lyrics this month and creating a quick, snippet of inspiration based off of a line or verse.

I heard a little of “The Makings of You,” by Curtis Mayfield the other night and I’ve been listening to it since that day. Beautiful song! For all you lovebirds out there, I recommend playing it for Valentine’s Day. It might score you some extra love points. You can thank me later.

I am inspired by the lyrics, “these are the makings of you, it is true, the makings of you.”

Your presence excites me

The thought of you makes my heart pound

And when I see you, I anticipate the moment that you acknowledge me and say hi

You are wise and kind and gentle with your words. Your affection cannot be duplicated

Your gaze of admiration makes me giddy and vulnerable all at the same time

You have that effect on me

I want to know all about you

How you think and why

You embody love, humility, strength and wisdom

You make me better, not just me but everyone you meet

“These are the true makings of you”

Go in peace and find somebody to make you feel giddy and vulnerable all at the same time. 

~Peace

 

 

 

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Could We Agree To Meet at Maybe?

Screenshot_20181228-143816.jpg

Welcome February…the month of love! This month we will shift our focus from spiritual wellness to emotional wellness. We will dive into our thoughts about love and acceptance of self. We will explore the possibilities within self-forgiveness while creating a stronger mental image of who we are and what we are capable of.

I brainstormed the following points during a creative writing session at the Pink House in Charlotte NC.

I pray your heart will open to the possibility of maybe…

My thoughts are inspired from a verse within the poem Wild Geese by Mary Oliver.

“Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine….”

Most often pain is the point that brings people together.

Maybe we can share our story and get inspiration from each other.

Maybe I will tell you of my deepest fears and hope that you will still love me.

Is it okay that I confide in you and express what is truly on my mind or I could just sit in silence while you share your story.

If we lean on one another maybe we both can be healed, or maybe we should release all expectation and appreciate the things that we do not know…..

Could we agree to meet at maybe?