A Chance To Grow

Hey SPOTLIGHT ladies!!  Here is a devotion that I found about your faith being tested, and I hope this encourages someone.

"For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow."- (James 1:3 ) 

Yes, we do endure trials that will test our faith. Yes, we may fail and not behave as honorably as we would like, but use it as a learning experience. 

The next time you find yourself getting swept away in drama, bitterness, and anger, step away. Regain your composure and consult God to provide you with the attitude and words that will allow you to respond in a loving manner and produce an endurance of faith.

Invest in Your Most Important Relationships

Hey Spotlight ladies!  Here's your devotion for today..

“A man of too many friends comes to ruin, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”- Proverbs 18:24


I always thought you can never have too many friends, but the longer I live and the older I get, the more I realize King Solomon was right on when he warned against having too many friendships. 

You may have 100 acquaintances that you enjoy talking with, but when it comes to those real, genuine, we-bring-out-the-best-in-each other, and are always-there-for-eachother friendships, you will only have a few. And that’s ok.

These days people collect friendships like they collect designer shoes.  Every week, they have a new best friend, and the moment something doesn’t go their way they’re on to the next friendship.  

But a quality and lasting relationship is not something you collect. It’s someone that God brings into your life to help you become all that God created you to be. They may not be a perfect person, but they are a perfect gift from God that you are to care for, invest quality time in and preserve.

Here’s a challenge for you…

Make a list of the 20 most important relationships in your life, from greatest to least. This can include your mother, your father, your sister, best friend, etc. Next, look to see if whether you are investing the majority of your quality time in the relationships that you listed as most important.

Maybe you are spending more time with those who live near you because it’s more convenient. But in order for any relationship to thrive and become all that God intended, you must invest quality time and attention into it.

In the long-run, you will be much happier if you take the time to care for the most meaningful relationships in your life.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."- 1 Thessalonians 5 : 18

     Today is a very important holiday. I know sometimes it’s hard to be content in a place that we know we don’t really want to be. As we push to grow and to pursue our dreams and purpose in God, it can be hard to remain thankful for the simple things. 

     Life itself is one of the most precious gifts that any of us can have. There are so many people that did not make it to see this holiday. The Bible tells us that “in everything give thanks”. If it’s bad give thanks, if it’s good give thanks. Stop allowing your circumstances to take away from your level of thankfulness. Because God has given you life, you have the power to change your circumstances.

      If you want more money show God you are thankful for the little by tithing off of what you have. If you want a better job show him you are thankful for that one by getting up and going to it every day with a great attitude. Also remember to thank Him for what He has done and thank Him for what is to come.

Consider the Source

"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last"-Revelation 22:13

Who else can say that but God? No one, only God can say such a thing. God knows everything: the past, current and future and our knowledge and understanding doesn’t even compare to the knowledge and understanding of God – even when it applies to our own life.

Furthermore, when you don’t understand what God is doing in your life, consider the source – Who is it that you’re trusting; God or yourself?

Here is something to remember. Man is fallible; we fall short and at times we’re unable to keep our promises. Man can give you instructions that are misleading and imperfect. With God, none of these things are possible. God keeps His promises, God gives you right instructions according to His perfect will and He won’t mislead you.

No matter how much you don’t understand life as it is right now; no matter how uncomfortable it may seem or how hard it gets, don’t give up. If God is with you – the same God who spoke life into you, the same God who IS and knows the beginning and the end, the same God who knew you before the foundation of this world -is with you, then ask yourself who or WHAT can stand against you.

Consider the source and seek to be obedient to the Lord, even when you don't understand what God is doing in your life; don’t worry about “this or that” because God has provisions for you.

I don’t know what your story is, but I encourage you to trust God even when you don't understand what’s happening in your life.
You may not understand life and all that’s happening; but God will give you a piece to the puzzle as you learn to step out on faith, trust and obey Him.

Don’t let the devil fool you into believing that you’re taking a step backwards in life or that you’ll never make it out of this situation; because you will. What you’re going through is temporary.

Cast It Off!

"And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer then when we believed.  The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light." -Romans 13:12

     It seems so easy in this day and age to walk in the same direction of those that do not know the Lord.  After all, if we blend in with them, they won't talk about us or stare at us as if we are from another planet. (1 Peter 2:9)

     They will basically leave us alone.  It is easy.  Just do what you want, when you want, how you want without thought of the consequences.  And why should we consider the consequences when we see others everyday getting away with ungodly acts without consequences.  (Galatians 6:7)

     But wait!  This scripture tells us to "Wake up!"  Wake up because our salvation, our rescue is near.  We are then given instruction to "cast off the works of darkness".  We have been given power by our Lord Jesus to put away and lay aside works, acts and deeds opposite of the character and nature of Christ.  We are not to engage in it any longer.

     You may think it is hard to make the decision, but you are strong in the Lord and He will help you follow His Word (Ephesians 6:10).  He also told us to put on the armor of light.  One translation tells us to put on the "FULL armor of light".

     Praise the Lord!  When you put on the full armor of light, no part of your body is exposed.  No part of your mind is exposed.  You are completely covered in light! (Matthew 5:16)  Make this a daily confession, "I cast off the works, deeds and acts of darkness and I put on the full armor of light in the name of Jesus!"  Amen.

Allow the Lord to show you how to do this day by day or moment by moment.  (Proverbs 3:5-6)  You will be amazed at how easy it really is to walk in the light!

THIS TUESDAY!!!!

HEY LADIES!!  

THERE IS NO SCHOOL THIS TUESDAY!  SO, LET'S TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THAT AND GET TOGETHER!

WHERE: Fun Depot-->2003 10th Ave N, Lake Worth, FL 33461

WHEN: Tuesday, November 11th

WHAT TIME: 6pm

HOW MUCH: $10

WHAT DOES THE MONEY INCLUDE: You will get a bracelet for unlimited gaming.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO: Ask your parents!!  Let us know about carpooling needs!! Get your money ready!!

*P.S*: I'm not sure how much food is, but I suggest eating before-hand..or, if you want to eat there, bring extra.

A Message from God's Heart for You

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."-Jeremiah 1:5

"My darling daughter, I want you to love who I created you to be.  Accept the experiences I have allowed you to go through and where I brought you out from.  Do not compare your experiences and life to anyone else.  Without these experiences, you would have no testimony of My will and love for you.  You would not be able to do what I have called you to do.

I know that some of your days were hard, but I was with you in every moment.  I did not allow you to be crushed by the enemy.  And I never will.

Trust that you are who you are for a reason.  My reason.  Created with a purpose that is definite, true, and unique to you.

Beware of those who doubt you.  Those people do not have My vision or knowledge for your life.  Do not let them make you feel worthless or wrong.  Their opinion and determination for your life has nothing to do with the calling I have placed on you because I created you, not them.  They have no idea what your calling is.  But you know, because I have told you.

Therefore, go forward knowing that you are purposefully and wonderfully made just as you are.  Realize that any limitations you may have are just opportunities for you to allow Me to fill you up.  

Let no man deter you.  Let no man tell you that because you don't have this or that, that you are not good enough.  What they won't tell you is that they are also lacking some things.  Instead, smile and nod at them knowing in your heart that they are lacking My vision, the very vision I have given you.

With My love and grace, accept yourself.  Love yourself.  ALL of yourself.  Even the parts you would rather forget.  Allow Me to heal them.

And when you are full of My love, give that love to others.  I fill you up with My love so you can pour it out into the world and be a blessing to My people."

Save The Date..Next Friday!!!!

Hey girls!!

Looking for something to do while everyone else is out celebrating Halloween?  Want to join a night of praise and fellowship with other youth your age?  

Then come join me at Trinity Church for a fun youth concert that will be happening that night.  (And yes, there will be food too..)

Where: Trinity Church International on Hypoluxo and Military

When: Friday, October 31st at 6pm

How much:  FREE!!

So, if you have nothing else to do that night, come to church and join other youth for a night full of praise and fellowship! 

One word from God can change your life!

Hey SPOTLIGHT girls!! Here's a devotion for you..

"Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.."-Proverbs 12:25

    There are people who feel depressed like there is no escape from the prison in their mind.  We live in a real world with real problems and how we deal with the problems in our life is totally up to us.

    The spirit of depression will have you trying to escape reality rather than deal with things head on.  It will try to convince you that you can't handle life's problems.  That you're not strong enough..

    "Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression" the Bible says, "but a good word makes it glad."  One word from God can change your life!

    None of us are strong enough to face the enemy by ourselves.  You can't fight depression in your own strength.  Thank God for modern medicine that help balance the chemicals in our brain and help us function, but understand that God is powerful enough to heal and deliver you.  

    Receive the supernatural power of God, His everlasting love, and His good word.

If He called YOU, He's SURE!!

Hey Spotlight girls, here's your devotion for today....

"Who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began."

-2 Timothy 1:9

    So many times we think, "Lord, are You sure You called the right person?  Are you sure this is what You want me to do?"  We question His choosing, we question His assignment, not understanding His sovereignty and wisdom.  

    If He called YOU, He's SURE!  If He gave YOU a purpose, He's SURE!

    "I am SURE."  God says, "I am SURE about many things regarding you.  I am SURE about My purpose and plan for your life.  I am SURE about My divine power to see you to the end of it.  I am SURE about you moving forward in it.  I am SURE of the fruit that will be produced from it.  YES, I am SURE!"

    Be sure as He is sure. 

Several things you must know if you are seeking to fulfill God's purpose for your life:

1. Understand your purpose will ALWAYS agree with the Word of God.
2. Know that if God called you to do anything, He will equip you with the wisdom, grace, and heart to do it.
3. Understand that a God-given purpose won't stop when you stop.  It will continue because He's at the helm.
4. Pray about timing.  If God can show you the "what", He can show you the "when".
5. Pray for God to do the impossible, then go and do the impossible through Him.

Stay encouraged SPOTLIGHT girls!

~Mosie

Save the Date!!!!

SPOTLIGHT MAKEOVER!!!!

    

    You girls thought up of a fun idea to help our fellow SPOTLIGHT sisters get ready for their Homecoming dance.  So if you're free that day, let's all get together, help these girls out, and make it a fun day.  

When: October 18 (time to be announced..)

What to bring: Whatever you have..make-up, fragrances, combs, hair products (in case they need a touch up), accessories (if you're okay with LENDING it temporarily)..

Where: Address to be announced..

**SAVE THE DATE**

(P.S...if you also have a Homecoming dance coming up and you'd like the girls to help, let us know in the Group message or contact my phone separately and we can try to get the girls together again for you.)

Glorious Miracles

"Who can list the miracles of the Lord?  Who can ever praise Him enough?"

-Psalm 106:2

    Is there any one of us who can detail each of the miracles God has performed for us?  No!

God provides a miracle with every breath we take.  Though we may deserve death for our sins, God allows us to live another day.

We can never give Him enough praise for all He has done, but that should not stop us from giving Him the glory He deserves.

What's hindering you?

Hey SPOTLIGHT Girls!! Here's a devotional to start off your week!!

“Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us…”- Hebrews 12:1 (Amplified)

    Many years ago I prayed for God to send me friends and He answered my prayer and placed several people in my life that helped me grow in my relationship with the Lord. As I became older, my purpose in life became clearer and it was even more important for the people in my life to be there by divine appointment. 

    One of the most important questions you can ask God is “Lord, what is hindering me?” Sometimes it’s a person and sometimes it’s a thing. If it’s not helping you and adding value to your life, it’s harming you. 

    You don’t place rat poison in the refrigerator. You place it on the shelf out of reach for the time that you need it to kill a rat. Some people are placing their enemies very close to their heart, not realizing that an enemy will hinder them from completing their assignment. You will want to pray together and an enemy will want to gossip. You will want to have peace and harmony and an enemy will want a war. You will want to seek God before deciding and an enemy will want your decision right now. 

    A hindrance can have the most sweetest voice, the most beautiful build, the most amazing mind, but be the most controlling person you’ve ever met. Every hindrance doesn’t look like a huge rock and every weight doesn’t look heavy.  

    We need the help and the eyes of God in order to see into the spirit what is hindering our walk with the Lord and we need the courage to lay it aside. When you fully embrace God’s plan for your life, you’ll find it will require losses, but beautiful gains. You will lose your life and you’ll find His. You will lose some friends, but will gain peace of mind. You will lose some heavy weights that’s been hindering you but you will gain a freedom in Christ like you’ve never imagined.

    

    Prayer: Father God, thank You for speaking directly into my heart. Reveal to me what is hindering me and give me the courage to let her, him, or it go. Nothing or no one is more important to me than finishing the assignment You gave me. Help me love people with the love of Jesus, but stay focused on Your divine purpose for my life. In Jesus name, Amen.

Power to the Weak

"He gives power to the weak, and strength to the powerless."-Isaiah 40:29

    Do you recall a situation where the harder you tried to fix something, the worse it became?  Or maybe it's an obstacle that you're facing that you just can't seem to find a way to overcome it.

    No matter the situation, remember that God is in control, not you. When you're feeling powerless, God will empower you.

   

    The next time you're in a situation like this, say a prayer to reveal your weakness and acknowledge that God is in control.

Sunday, September 7th is Black/White day

Hey Spotlight Girls!!

We're starting a new, monthly tradition..

To kick off each month, on the first Sunday, we'll be coordinating our Sunday morning outfits, and we want EVERYONE to join in too!

We're starting this coming Sunday, September 7th, since it is the first Sunday.  The SPOTLIGHT colors for this Sunday is Black/White.  You can either wear all black, all white, or black and white.

I want to easily spot out all you girls, so be sure to wear the color theme.  

And..If anyone asks "Why are you matching? 0_o.."  Just smile gracefully and politely say "Because I'm a princess :)"  Then gracefully walk away.

WARNING!: Be prepared for pictures, because we will be taking at least one or two pictures together after church to add to our new SPOTLIGHT instagram page coming up (and I'll be walking around maybe taking some surprise candid ones too ;p)    

SO, DON'T BE A PARTY POOPER!! HAVE FUN WITH THE COLOR THEME AND SPREAD THE WORD!!

Beautiful Things

"God made everything beautiful in itself and in its time.."-Ecclesiastes 3:11

    

    Sometimes it's hard to see the beauty in things, people, life's events, or even ourselves.  It's easy to be overwhelmed, stressed, and busy yet we don't take the time to see the beauty that surrounds us.  

    He sees us as His beautiful creation.  Remember that God has made us unique in His image.

    Look in the mirror and smile at God's beautiful creation!

Save The Date, DECEMBER 20TH!!!!

HEY SPOTLIGHT GIRLS!!

    

        Coming next month, we're having a SPOTLIGHT Night Out/GIFT EXCHANGE, and we're inviting all the SPOTLIGHT members exclusively!!

What: Movie night

When: Saturday evening, December 20th {The exact time will be announced soon when we vote on the movie later on..}

Where: Parisian Muvico at Cityplace

What to bring: At least $11 {Tickets are normally $10.50, unless they charge tax.  Also, you can bring extra money if you want to buy popcorn or other snacks} AND, your secret Santa gifts for your assigned person.

What to wear: Dress your best! Wear what you would wear to a party, dinner, or even Sunday morning church.  It's a SPOTLIGHT Night Out, so look for your best, Semi-formal clothes {It doesn't need to be wedding level fancy}.  

     We want to see all of our girls that night, so be sure to save the date now!!  Also, we will be exchanging our gifts at Cityplace.  As I mentioned before, you're free to give your person WHATEVER you want.  The only requirement is that it comes from your heart.  (Remember, don't tell anyone who your person is!)  

    If you did not receive any message about who your assigned person is for Spotlight Secret Santa, or if you have any other questions about our movie night, please text me personally at this number: 5615683148.

  

**See you all there!!**

Pray About

HEY SPOTLIGHT GIRLS!!

 HERE'S SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT TONIGHT..

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything.  Tell God what you need, and thank him for all He has done"-Philippians 4:6



        Do your best with the talents God has given you, and relinquish to Him the things over which you have no control.  When you turn all of your worries to God, a sense of peace will set in.


        If you feel anxiety and worry building up in your thoughts, take a moment to ask your Heavenly Father to calm your fears.  Remember to thank Him by acknowledging that He is the creator of this earth.

Everything You Do

"And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind.  Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching."-Titus 2:7

    It's easier to tell someone what to do than it is to lead by example. 

   Modeling our beliefs has more of an impact on those who see our example.  Telling others what and how to react only takes the choice away from them.  God will speak to them and show them the error of their ways through your behavior alone. 

    Set the example and let all you do be a reflection of Him.

    

Take comfort in Him

   

    Death of a loved one leaves us all in dark times. We are left with all sorts of questions, as to why God allowed it to happen and so on. We wonder why God took away our dear one, when He knows how precious they were to us. Many questions have been asked by grieving relatives, about death and why God allows pain and many men and women of God have tried answering their questions from God's Word.
    

     Take heart, know that God cares for you, and look to him for comfort....

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”-Matthew 11:28-30

    

     Also, it's absolutely OKAY to cry and let it all out. 

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."-Matthew 5:4

     In John 11, not only did Jesus not criticize the family and friends of Lazarus for weeping, He also wept (John 11:35). The Bible teaches us to sympathize and empathize with others who are grieving. After someone's death, it is important for loved ones and friends to spend time together and to reminisce and talk about their precious memories—memories that bring forth warm reflection, tears and laughter. When someone wants to talk about a deceased loved one, be an attentive listener. 

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep."-Romans 12:15

    Today, my heart goes out to our Spotlight girls, Gastianie and Gayana, and all of their family.  I pray that through this tough time that they are facing, God sends them peace, strength, hope, and eventually joy.

    Whether you are a close friend of these two girls or not, the best things you can do right now and throughout the coming days and weeks is to send this family words of encouragement, hugs, your presence, and most importantly, your prayers.    

Human Anger

Hey Spotlight girls, here's some Friday morning inspiration!

Human Anger

"Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.  Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires."-James 1:19-20

    What is human anger?

    It's anger that occurs when someone rubs against our pride or selfishness.  God still wants us to get angry, but for the right reasons such as the injustice of orphans or widows.

    Learn to control your selfish anger.  When you feel yourself getting angry because your feelings are hurt, swallow it and focus your mind on something else.  What I sometimes do is distract myself with something else, like counting to 100 or singing a song.

  

    Staying in your anger only produces more anger.  Practice refocusing your mind as many times as needed.  

    

All Your Heart

Good morning Spotlight Girls!! Here's some Monday morning inspiration to start off your week..

All Your Heart

"..Love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.."

-Mark 12:30

    Is your heart wholeheartedly serving God where He has placed you?  Has your heart moved on and God won't let you go?

    The danger of this happening is that the fruits of your labor become less fruitful.  However, it is entirely possible to once again bear bountiful fruit.  

    

    Even though it may be difficult to do, bring all of your heart back to where you have been placed until God moves you elsewhere.

   

    Bring back your heart.

COMING THIS MONTH....

        Hey Spotlight girls, what are your plans for May 23rd??....

If your answer was "I don't know what I'm doing May 23rd" then keep reading!!

Now I know by now you have probably heard about this trip a million times already, but I want to give you a list of all the reasons why you do NOT want to miss out on this trip.

1. First of all, this trip will probably be the most fun you'll have all summer, and for some of you, maybe even the most fun all year.  I mean really, what else do you have to look forward to this summer?  Do you really want to be the one who spends their summer at home everyday, while all of your friends are having the summer of their lives?
2. You get to spend 3 whole days with your friends and Bethesda family.  Just think of it as one HUGE slumber party.
3. There will be a pool and jacuzzi..(Did someone say pool party?!)
4. They have bicycles.  This would be the perfect time to catch up on that exercise you've been forgetting to do.
5. They have canoes and ski boats for the lake.  When the youth went to camp years ago, this was one of the highlights of the trip.  The lake was soooo much fun!!!!
6. They have hayrides and campfires.  Maybe we can roast some marshmallows!!
7. There is a basketball court, soccer field, softball field, and volleyball court for all you sporty people out there.
8. They also have a gymnasium, mini-golf area, and even a playground for that child in you.
9. They also have some really cozy bedrooms for us to sleep in and really yummy food to eat.
10. May I also mention that the youth committee will be organizing a lot of activities on the camp as well, such as: movie night, game tournaments, a special picnic, and even a Beauty pageant and Talent show!

    

    This is only SOME of the things to look forward to on this trip.   Hopefully, though, it's enough to convince you to go.  But, if for some reason, you STILL do not want to go....I mean, come on, do you really want to be THAT girl?  Do you really want to stay home while everyone else is having the time of their lives?  Do you really want to have to deal with seeing all the never-ending, envy-worthy, photos all over Facebook and Instagram that everyone will be posting showing how much fun they'll be having?  Do you REALLY want to have to hear the non-stop, endless stories that your friends will be sharing and telling you, about all the "You had to be there" moments and all the cool memories they'll have?  And, trust me, there will be stories for days..enough to make you feel left out and wish that you had took that opportunity to go on the trip when you had the chance..

    Well, then, what are you waiting for?? You still have a chance! There is still time left and we still have some spots left open.  Don't hesitate!  I can not stress this enough, this is a trip that you do not want to miss!  

    So go forth and sign up!!  Please see Francis Sephir or David Paul to register.  If you would like to find ways to pay for the trip, such as, having a payment plan or getting a discount, then definitely go see Francis Sephir.  He'll help you out as much as possible so that you can go to the trip without any financial problem.  Remember..those who have been helping out with the car washes, candy selling, and other fundraisers automatically get discounts!  

    That's all for now folks!  Hope to see you all May 23-26 at our fun, youth retreat!!