The Struggle; Through it all, God is Still God.

                                  
What are you currently struggling with? Is it financial issues, family issues, spiritual issues? Whatever the case may be, you need to know that God is still God. We're human, it's totally normal to lose sight of God's greatness in the midst of our struggles. We let our minds get so consumed in how to find a solution that we forget God IS the solution. Have you ever wanted or felt you needed something so bad that you thought your life would be complete when you get it; all for it to not even be enough? Yea...I know the feeling, not worth it at all.
           "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33). God tells us that if we focus on Him and our relationship with Him, everything else will follow! But how often do we really do that? We go to God and pray for that job we've been dying to get or that amount of money we need to pay off those bills but we don't ask God to continue to mold, shape and lead us into the women/men that He has created us to be. That's the secret to your blessings. God doesn't PUT struggle in your life, but sometimes He allows it so that you can learn to be dependent on Him and Him alone. Money, jobs, clothes and other material things come and go but God's grace and love is eternal..AND sufficient. You'll never be satisfied chasing after everything else.
           Lets look at the story of Jacob (Genesis 32:22-32). Have you ever realized that in the Bible, God calls His people His "sheep" a lot? It's because just like sheep, we tend to stray away from the path that has already been paved for our lives. These occasional struggles help us realize, we are NOTHING without the guidance of our shepherd. God broke Jacob's hip so that he could be dependent solely on Him. Jacob complied and never let go of God until He blessed Him (Genesis 32:26). Now, I'm not saying rely and depend on God until you get your blessings then go about your way, but rely and depend on God AT ALL TIMES. When things are going great, when things are stagnant and especially when things are sour.
           Remember that through it all, God is still God. His plans are set for you, not because of what you do, but because of His greatness (Ephesians 2:8-9). HIS will is far greater than your dreams, so stop worrying, He knows what lies ahead. Rejoice in your struggle (Romans 5:3-5)...I know, easier said than done but channel that worry, that hurt, that frustration into something that will glorify God. Spend more quiet time with God, join a ministry in church, discover your God given talent and use it to your advantage! You have the potential to do so much more when you focus on God and let Him take care of the rest. Again, always remember, God is still God and I don't even have to tell you how great He is, just have faith in Him and watch Him work His "magic". He'll never do anything to harm you, He loves you way too much. I pray this has given you the courage to stand up to your struggle and push forward, God bless you. <3

What S.A.V.E.D. means to me...

       S.A.V.E.D. was created as an acronym for "Sisters After Virtue, Edification and Diligence", but it also has so many other meanings. Being SAVED is not just a “Christian thing” and the group is not just another regular bible study/prayer group. It has a much deeper meaning. S.A.V.E.D. represents a group of many young women coming together for the sole purpose to encourage and empower each other on their daily walks of life and with God. We are all “S.A.V.E.D.” by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8), but the group also represents being “S.A.V.E.D.” from addiction, from abuse, from stress, basically from any sort of negativity that we struggle to break free from in our lives. To give our supporters a better understanding, we asked a few of our S.A.V.E.D. sisters to explain what the group means to them. Happy reading!

Nana Ama Erzuah
Chicago, Illinois

       As women growing up in a superficial world where women are viewed as so many negative things and double standards play a major role in society, S.A.V.E.D. has definitely been a platform for me to surround myself with such positive, strong minded women who are able to not only empower each other but bring out the good in us and our communities we live in. Being a part of S.A.V.E.D. has helped me a lot to grow spiritually and having a deeper relationship with God. I also know that I am never alone, and someone will always be there to support me in my walk. Thank you S.A.V.E.D. for being a great support system!

Live Manuelo
Malden, Ma

      When I think about being S.A.V.E.D., it is more than being rescued from a bad relationship, a bad job, bad behaviors or bad habits. Being S.A.V.E.D. is recognizing the master of your life for who He is, the One who gave you the breath that you possess, the One who constantly protect you even when you don't deserve that protection. Once you are willingly aware and ready to accept Him as your Lord and Savior, then you are in the process of being S.AV.E.D. In John 6:35, the Lord declares "I am the bread of life. He that comes to me will not get hungry at all, and he that exercises faith in me will never get thirsty at all". As S.A.V.E.D. sisters we all have one common goal which is seeking the bread of life. With different tactics and different experiences, we unite as one to seek for His kingdom. Becoming completely S.A.V.E.D. is a journey, one that can even take a lifetime, for we are sinners who sin daily. S.A.V.E.D. sisters provides that support system that each individual seeking the kingdom of God is in need of. We are there to guide, advise and remind each other that we are not alone in this journey. Although it may get very hard at times, giving up is NOT an option. A lot of us newly born again Christians find it very difficult to stay on the right path, we often seek mentors to keep us on track.That is where S.A.V.E.D comes in. S.A.V.E.D. gives each and every one of us the best gift we can ask for on our journey: understanding, support and love. 2 Corinthians 8:7 declares "Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver". At S.A.V.E.D., the ladies share their wisdom acquired through life experiences with pure and open hearts. S.A.V.E.D. is the home for every born again or in the process of becoming born again Christians. Everyone is welcome and at no point will you EVER be judged. S.A.V.E.D. to me is a family, a family who want to help me grow as a strong women exhibiting an image of God. 

Nathalie Mukadi
Everett,Ma

        I am not a shy person,but can be anti-social.The thought of being around people that I do not know and who do not know me,usually does not settle well with me. I used to like being in my comfort zone. which would usually be with people I know and have known for years. Then the Holy Spirit revealed to me, that I cannot desire to serve God, walk and live the Christian life by being a comfortable Christian. I must become an "uncomfortable,comfortable Christian" . Meaning leaving my comfortable zone  to interact with others, being a blessings to others, sharing wisdom and knowledge through life experiences and testimonies. But also to be blessed by other people's life testimonies, wisdom and knowledge. So that is why I joined the S. A. V. E.D. ministry. I wanted to grow spiritually, to learn from other women 's life experience and challenges. But also to share my wisdom,  knowledge that God had graciously granted me and my testimonies. The ministry is a judgement free environment where everyone values the opinion of others. In my eyes, my S.A.V.E.D sisters are: Sanctified, Amazing, Virtuous, Empowered and Devoted women of God!

Ornelie Mukadi
Everett,Ma

       S.A.V.E.D. for me is a group of women who chose to unite in order to learn about living a life with God and empower each other in every way possible. It represents such great strength and wisdom. The experiences, ideas and responses shared during meetings have benefited each participant in some way. S.A.V.E.D. is my source of encouragement to keep pressing.

    

Benine Mudymba
Founder of S.A.V.E.D.
Malden, Ma

         S.A.V.E.D. means more to me than I could have ever imagined. It's my passion, not only because God placed it on my heart to start it but also because I have faith that it will help change so many young women's lives. Not every girl is blessed to have positive 'big sister" influences like I did when I first started my walk with Christ, and that is something we all need to keep us accountable to God. We need that support system to help us when we don't know what to do on our own and refuse to conform to the ways of the world. S.A.V.E.D. is a sisterhood just trying to better themselves and honor God in an extraordinary way. No stress, no judgement, just love <3

Annoucements: 
-Our next meeting is Friday, August 23rd at 5:45 pm discussing Boundaries. 
- Buy a S.A.V.E.D. tshirt to support our fundraiser at:      campaign.customink.com/savedfundraiser

July 19th,2013- Peer Pressure & Righteous Friendships

      This past Friday, we had another great group of women join us for our FOURTH meeting! Praise God for what He has started and will carry until completion! Peer pressure, defined as "social pressure by members of one's peer group to take a certain action, adopt certain values or conform in order to be accepted", is extremely common in this day and age. Often times, as Christians, we think its okay to have one foot in Christ and the other in the world just to seem "normal" or fit in. However we need to remember that although we are in this world, we are not of it (John 15:19). This means that just because others think it is ok, if it isn't pleasing to God, we shouldn't even entertain it. Nobody is perfect though, and sometimes we do give in, willingly and/or subconsciously. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss how the ladies deal with certain peer pressures and come up with different ways to avoid these situations. We were all there to share and learn from each other.
      This wonderful group of women each received a list of questions pertaining to peer pressure that they were to answer individually and later discuss in the larger group. Based on general consensus, the most common forms of peer pressure are about: marriage, swearing, and clubbing/partying. Other examples may also include physical appearance and what you watch and listen to. No one should ever push you into something you are not comfortable doing, especially if you feel convicted not to. Some ways to deal with certain peer pressures can be to distance yourself from the people or group of people, find an alternative to the situation and most importantly confide in someone who could hold you accountable for your actions.
       Peer pressure is not something we should have to deal with on our own either. That is where righteous friendships come in. The girls said that "righteous" was a strong word...YES it is, but also a great way to depict the importance of such a friendship. When asking the girls what a righteous friendship is to them, they basically were right on with their answers. Such a friend builds you up, holds you accountable, pushes you in a POSITIVE direction, genuinely loves you and helps you grow spiritually, mentally and emotionally. If that is not what is happening in your life...GIRL, it's time to reevaluate your friendships! Not only should you have righteous friendships but you should also be that great friend to another. How? First and foremost by your behavior. Just like children, we are more likely to follow what we see than what we hear. Think of some things you find yourself in the habit of doing. Did you start because someone told you it was the right thing to do? Or did you see a positive example doing the same and how it worked for them? Also, never forget to pray for your friends and speak to them in love. Study them a little, see how they react to certain things and find ways that they would be more inclined to listen or follow your direction.
         We are only human and yes we do fall into things that may not be pleasing to God. He will meet you where you are, but you have to be willing to move forward and not look back. God loves you and will always find a way to help you! <3

Different Seasons

          

         Another great meeting with an amazing set of ladies. We really were able to open up and share personal examples of times we've experienced the topic discussed. These meetings were created to allow young women to feel comfortable and be transparent about ANYTHING, but they're also a great way to let loose after a busy week, laugh and enjoy each other's company and that is exactly what we did! Starting off with reading Ecclesiastes 3:1-11. We discussed the different spiritual seasons. The girls then participated in a critical thinking activity. They were given 4 real life scenarios to read. After reading each scenario, it was the group's responsibility to discuss what season they thought the person was in for that particular scenario, a few things that helped them know it was really that particular season and what are some things they would do if they were in that season.

         Just like each season varies depending on where we are geographically, There are spiritual seasons that we need to recognize as we continue to mature in Christ. They are not particularly named but they can be compared to natural seasons. Spiritual seasons vary on where we are spiritually. And no just because it is Summer in New England, does NOT mean you are in Summer spiritually! Each season God puts us in is preparation for the next in which we will have a unique role or purpose.

Description of Spiritual Seasons

Winter: A time of brokenness where you feel God has forgotten about you or isn't hearing your prayers. However, it should be the time where you decide to cling closer to and REST in Him more than you ever have. Its probably one of the most uncomfortable seasons for a Christian. Where we feel nothing is going right. 

        Example: Not finding a job, not getting into a desired school, losing friendships, a general stop on all opportunities.

Spring: Newness of life!! Spring time may mean planting new opportunities and new activities. Maybe a new way to do devotions or a new ministry God wants to put you in, new relationships or new ways to serve God. Whatever it may be,follow Gods lead on everything and be obedient.

        Example: Getting engaged, joining a new church, starting a new ministry, new friendships.

Summer:  A time of spiritual development to nurture the gifts God has given to you. It’s a time for prayer (more than usual) over the seeds or projects you’ve started in your previous season. They become fully grown and everything seems "peachy" but this is the season to cling on to God and stay connected to Him because if not careful, we forget where we came from. We forget what God has done for us and become spiritually arrogant because we think that we "made" it on our own when in reality it's God's grace and favor that got us there. Always make sure to keep your relationship with God in check!

        Example: Making sure you're nurturing the new relationships you've started, 
       continuing to put forth effort in that new idea God placed on your heart, doing 
       the right thing at work even though you may dislike your job and want to leave.

Fall: A time of transition and reflection, things start to slow down. You find yourself maybe reevaluating your values and priorities. You start to go back to the basics of faith.

        Example: Realizing certain traits you need to work on personally,cutting back on certain unnecessary friendships, mending relationships, change in taste buds (music, tv shows, environment).

Keep in mind that it is possible to be in different seasons in different aspects of your life. You may be in financial Winter, but Spring when it comes to relationships, etc. Its important for us to recognize which season we are in, in order to hear God's exact instruction for our life. God always gives us instructions but each one has its time, no season is ever permanent. Our task as women of God is to remain content in whatever the situation may be and keep our focus on our relationship with Him more than anything else.

So, there are basically two somewhat neutral seasons, one really awesome and one really uncomfortable. Here are a few things that might help you deal with whatever season you may currently be in.

•       SEEK HIM. Spend more time with God than usual.
•   Pray for clarity and wisdom and not what you "want" or "need".
•     Transparency, be COMPLETELY open with God about how you feel during this time.
•  Use prayer as a conversation with God. Bring your cares and worries to 
•     Him before complaining to anyone else.
•  Wait on Him,don't try to "fix" your life or situation on your own. God always wins.
•   Memorize and recite scripture that pertains to your current situation. (2 Timothy 3:16)
•    Lastly, always remember that you are a beloved child of God and He wants the best for you in His time. (Galatians 6:9)

A Love Letter to the Ladies of S.A.V.E.D.

 Hey ladies!

        I just wanted to let you know you are loved very dearly! I know we're all worried about the stress of bills, school, work, for some children or whatever the case may be but I just wanted to remind you all to be encouraged in whatever season you may be in ( Different Seasons also happens to be our June topic, dont miss out!). Regardless of all our busy schedules, let us not forget to spend that crucial time with the One who matters most, Jesus Christ. You may be going through a really tough situation at the moment...or maybe not but either way, nothing beats that special quiet time with our creator. It personally gives me a sense of peace in the midst of my what seems like unsolvable problems. " For a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him" - 2 Peter 2:19, are you letting your troubles take control of you or are you leaving them at the foot of the cross of the One who is sovereign and capable of the impossible and unthinkable? Leave it all to Jesus, He love you more than anything and anyone. He has great plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11), if you just surrender it all to Him, with your whole heart.

         So take that couple of hours, or even full day to just read a little in your bible, or pray and let Him speak to you or even put some music on and worship. Dont ever let anyone or any situation make you think you are incapable of or unworthy to spend time with God. Be encouraged, have a great rest of your week and month. Love you sisters!!

With love,

B.

May 31st, 2013 - Women's Health

   

             Tonight, like always, we had a great group of women! Because the topic was Women's Health, we touched upon the top 5 Women's Health issues and also discussed different check-ups needed after reaching a certain age. The 6 women were split up into 3 pairs and each given a health issue to learn about, discuss and find the best way to present to the larger group. The beauty of this group work was that they were put into a pair with someone they either didn't know too well or at all. It gave them a chance to get more familiar with group members, actively learn about the topic and have enough courage to present important information to others. Each pair was given a poster board, markers and crayons and their task was to find the best and most creative way to present their topic in a billboard or ad format. The girls had a great time discussing ideas on what to draw, write and act out. After everyone completed their presentations to the larger group, our great friend Nana Erzuah with a Bachelor's degree in Public Health, gave us some vital information on what kinds of different check-ups we should start having as we get older. You can find all the information about the topics presented and what Nana spoke about below. Its time for us to get educated and take good care of our bodies ladies!

Heart Disease

-          Heart disease is responsible for 29% of deaths in women and can also be a concern for women UNDER the age of 65.Although more men die of heart disease than women, women are under diagnosed and discover the condition after it is too late to do anything about it.

             Symptoms: shortness of breath, excessive sweating, lightheaded or dizziness, unusual fatigue, neck, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort.

-          Risk Factors: Heredity (Including race, African-Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk),high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity ( most common), smoking, mental stress and depression, low levels of estrogen after menopause.

-          Reduce the risk: make sure diet is low in saturated fat, oil and cholesterol, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, maintain a healthy weight, quit or don’t start smoking.

   

     

-         Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women. It mainly occurs after menopause however there are instances in young women.

-          Symptoms: Lump in breast or underarm after menstruation, swelling in the armpit, pain or tenderness in breast, flattening, indentation in breasts, change in size or temperature of breasts, unusual discharge from nipple.

-          Risk Factors: Obesity, too much alcohol, family/personal history, race(white women are at a higher risk), early onset of menstruation(before age 12), earlier chest radiation, genes (5-10% of cases are linked to abnormal gene mutations), high intake of red meat.

-          Reduce the risks: exercise, eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans, eat less red and/or processed meat and drink less sugary drinks, reduce drinking of alcoholic beverages limit to about 1 standard drink per day.

Osteoperosis

Osteoporosis, a condition of weak bones that break easily affects 44 million Americans and 68% are women. WOW!

-          Symptoms: easily occurring bone fracture (spine, wrist or hip), back pain, loss of height over time, stooped posture.

-          Risk Factors: small frame, family history, anorexia or bulimia, diet low in Calcium and Vitamin D, excessive alcohol, smoking, inactive lifestyle, race (white and Asian women have the highest risk),infrequent menstrual cycles, medication use.

-          Reduce the risks: weight bearing exercise ( walking,jogging,etc), eat foods rich in calcium and Vitamin D (milk, yogurt, cheese, fish) and dark green vegetables, limit alcoholic beverages.

Autoimmune Diseases

There are more than 80 known types of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders where the immune system attacks the body and destroys or alters tissues. 75% of autoimmune diseases occur in women. Since there are so many of them, it is impossible to pinpoint the exacts symptoms and prevention methods for each disease.

-          Risk Factors: Women of childbearing age,family history, ethnic background, environmental factors

-          Different Examples: Lupus, Diabetes I, Celiac Disease, Graves’ disease, inflammatory bowel disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Psoriasis.

Depression

There isn't an exact cause for depression but there are many factors involved including hormones and inherited traits.

Symptoms: sleep disturbance, appetite and weight change, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in usual activities, feelings of guilt, hopelessness and worthlessness, suicidal thoughts.

Risk Factors: family history, experience stressful life events, having a serious illness, abuse of alcohol or drugs, certain high blood pressure medicines, body image issues, low self-esteem, being overly dependent, traumatic experience as a child.

Reduce the risks: aim for 8 hours of sleep, open up to at least one trusted person, practice relaxation techniques, a little sunlight exposure each day, stay active, try to maintain social activities even if not in the mood.

ANNUAL WOMEN CHECK-UPS

Pap Smear - is a check for cervical cancer or any other changes in your cervix that could lead to serious health issues. 

Mammogram (x-ray of the breast) - is a screening that helps detect breast cancer. Though it is not recommended to go without a mammogram, you could do a self breast examination. Check out the steps for a self breast examination here: http://www.genesishealth.com/services/cancer/treat/breast/exam/

STI Testing - is testing for sexually transmitted infections. There are many different STI's and tests for each one. Your doctor will be best at advising which one to take based on your history of sexual activity. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY, STAY HEALTHY AND GET CHECKED OFTEN!

April 12th, 2013- What is a Sister? The Importance of Accountability.

                The dictionary defines a sister as “a woman or girl in relation to other daughters and sons of her parents”, but that isn't even the full definition. Yes, that may be true but as Christians, a sister also represents a fellow member in Christ; one who also believes in Him.

As sisters to our older/younger siblings, we have certain responsibilities; for example helping our parents with making sure they did their homework, or had dinner, or get a ride to practice and many more.  But just like we are sisters to our worldly siblings, we have responsibilities as sisters in Christ. That is the reason this group was formed.

We are all sisters in Christ and God is our father. That’s where the importance of accountability comes in. Accountability is being responsible for one’s actions, an accountability partner helps you make sure you are doing so. This group is formed for each of us to hold each other accountable on our Christian walk, making sure we are obeying our Heavenly Father in everything we do. I understand its not easy to trust someone right off the bat but as explained in our first meeting, this is a JUDGEMENT FREE ZONE and everything discussed in this group, stays within the group.

When we hold each other accountable, we need to be completely truthful, but also speak in love, without judgment and be able to receive the advice with an open mind and not feel attacked. You might be told what you don’t want to hear, but some truths can only be told by those that love you, your SISTERS. If you’re the one giving the advice however; your manner of speaking is very important. Someone may be more likely to hear you out, if you speak on the same level as them, not talking down or passing judgments, regardless of how wrong the situation is. Giving suggestions on how to change the issue or speaking from experience on what helped you will make your listener more inclined to work on a solution with a positive attitude as opposed to feeling attacked or talked down to.

Question: So I post a picture on facebook exposing body parts that are not meant to be shown in public. If you’re my sister, would you approach me about the issue? (Regardless of whether we are close or not).

        Approaching someone about something they are doing wrong may be hard because we are worried that they might take it the wrong way but if we were called to be sisters(whether close to the person or not), it is our responsibility to make a conscious effort to help, no matter the situation.

List of Verses Pertaining to Accountability/Sister responsibilities

So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members 
one of another. – Romans 12:5

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as 
I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will
 know that you are my disciples,if you have love for one another.
 – John 13:34-35

But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for
 members of his household,he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
 -1 Timothy 5:8

First Meeting: March 15th, 2013

The first meeting was amazing! About 12 girls attended. Because it is important to have everyone involved in what takes place, they were each given a sheet of paper to write down ideas for topics to be discussed as well as volunteering and fundraising ideas. Below is the list of topics that were chosen and will be discussed in the next few months. Visit the schedule page for meeting dates! - There will be a post after each meeting discussing the topic.

Topics
- Definition of a Sister/Importance of Accountability
-Women's Health
-Different Seasons
-Righteous friendships/ Peer pressure
-Boundaries
-Relationships (romantic, family, friends)
-Finances/Budget
-Inner Beauty
-Cooking/Beauty/Etiquette
- Spiritual Growth/ Intimacy with God
- Forgiveness
- Spiritual Growth/Intimacy with God/Sacrifices for God
- Waiting Process
- Stewardship
-Being a Woman of Faith Outside of Church (social media, clothing, work, manner of speaking)
-Boys,Men,Males
- What is Considered Sin
-Worship as a Lifestyle
-Respect
-We as the Church
-End of times