Accepted to Rejected (4/19/2021)

SALUTATIONS: Hey yall! I hope yall had a wonderful week thus far. How many of you have felt the sting of rejection from family, friends, or otherwise? This week we're talking about how your authenticity will sometimes end in your being accepted to rejected without notice or cause. But don't fret. Oftentimes our rejection is merely God's redirection to a path that better serves us. Now let's get into it. As always, take time to review ALL of the Announcements, Healthy Living Tips, and other information detailed below, following the Reflections and Power in Prayer, whenever time permits. Your continued support is always appreciated. Keep spreading God's Gospel and feel free to share the Scripture of the Week with the hashtag SOW. Enjoy! **Disclaimer: Production and distribution days of the SOW are subject to change without warning*

PRAISE REPORTS: I'm grateful to be here sharing this message with yall for another consecutive week. Father, we praise you through our rejections, our acceptions, and your redirections. We believe but mend our unbelief. Hallelujah! If you have a specific praise report, please share, because we “overcame [the adversary] by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of [our] testimony” (Revelation 12:11). **NOTE: All praise reports are shared with reference to your name unless anonymity is specified**

PRAYER REQUESTS: This week, let our focus prayer be on deliverance from strongholds, soul ties, and bleak mindsets. Let's continue to pray for one another and thank Yahweh for the victory while refraining from confessing the problem caused by the enemy; ALWAYS pray for the desired result, NOT the unfavorable outcome (refer to the book The Tongue – A Creative Force, by Charles Capps; you can download your FREE copy here https://rb.gy/niy4go). If you or someone you know needs prayer, let me know, and your request will be added to the following SOW. **NOTE: All prayer requests are shared with reference to your name and need unless anonymity is specified**

BE ENCOURAGED: NEVER lose sight of God amidst adversity… Ponder this: "It is not rejection itself that people fear, it is the possible consequences of rejection. Preparing to accept those consequences and viewing rejection as a learning experience that will bring you closer to success, will not only help you to conquer the fear of rejection but help you to appreciate rejection itself" (Robert Foster Bennett). I'm no theological scholar, and even if I were a pastor or an expert on God's word, I would still advise you NEVER to take someone else's word as solid truth; "Study to show thyself approved" (2 Timothy 2:15), and CHALLENGE EVERYTHING by comparing it to the Word of God. If what you see, hear, or read does NOT fall in line with the Word of God, then it is NOT true... The rest of this day isn't promised, let alone tomorrow, so why not strengthen your faith TODAY? Feed your body healthy nutrition, be cautious of what things you allow your eyes, ears, and spirit to be exposed to (e.g., media, books, TV, music, etc.) so that YOU can start anew and become a better you NOW, rather than later. If you need someone to help you get there, or you're looking for an accountability partner, you've come to the right place. Here I am.
 
FEATURED SONGS OF PRAISE: "God Didn't Give Up" by Deitrick Haddon (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/3q4mk0) and "Unstoppable" by Koryn Hawthorne (you can listen to it here https://rb.gy/xmevsu). I would also like to recommend Classical for Studying Radio on Pandora to better facilitate your meditation on the Word as you study, you can listen to that station here https://rb.gy/wtbmva.  

OPENING PRAYER: Yahweh, please let your presence set the tone for how this lesson will flow and how we will grow from it. Clear our mind and open our eyes, ears, and heart so that we may be decreased in self and increased in you. Fill us with your presence through the Holy Spirit to see as we look, to listen as we hear, to come into alignment with your word and your will, to receive, believe, and apply your truth, that we may be transformed by your intended message from this fellowship and become better as a result of it. In the name of Yeshua, Amen!

 

KEY PASSAGE(S) – JOHN 12:37, 42-43: "37 But though He had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on Him. 42 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on Him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: 43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." 

**Unless otherwise indicated all Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible retrieved from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage**

REFLECTIONS: If you're anything like me, you've wasted a great deal of time comparing yourself to others; "How is it that this person is selfish and inconsiderate, yet continues to prosper while I am compassionate and caring of others, especially people in need. I tithe, I attend church, I volunteer, I do my best to follow God's commands, and yet I see no favor?" Sound familiar? The biggest issue in this scenario is the fact that you're comparing yourself to the perceived prosperity in someone else's life, AND like the "chief rulers [and the] many [who] believed [in God]" (John 12:42) you're seeking man's favor instead of God's. I'm bold enough to suggest that about 95% of the content on social media platforms is a façade. Think about the News. How often do we see a headline about a celebrity marriage on the verge of divorce but the alleged, publicly proclaims it's "fake news" and they're still solid, yet, in months to follow a very public and nasty divorce ensues? 

On the outside, we see the smiles, family vacations, game nights, adventures, or enjoyable single-life displayed on people's social media accounts. Don't get me wrong, some are bipolar with their posts, going from 0 to 100 within posts of each other, airing all their dirty laundry only to retract it 2 seconds later. However, for a vast majority, you only see the pretty pictures; pictures that do not depict the reality of the individual's struggles because oftentimes they're lacking authenticity, transparency, and/or integrity. Thus, from the outside looking in, we perceive that ex-partner, ex-friend, or ex-coworker as doing "better" than we are. I'm not a bitter person, so if/when I see someone else's success, friend or foe, I'm happy for them. However, I'd be lying if I said I didn't envy.

What we don't see is the behind-the-scenes, the inner emotions, the struggles, or the truth. But God does. God reads the pages of our heart (read Jeremiah 17:10 here https://rb.gy/wylhlv) not its outer cover. That's why it's said "never read a book by its cover" because you cannot determine its contents without looking inside; we are carnal by nature and have been trained to judge and make assumptions about people based on how they look or appear - stereotypes. Therefore, when we perceive someone as being self-centered, mean, and selfish, we're boggled as to how our contrasted behavior is rejected while theirs appears to be accepted. 

The key words there are "perceive" and "appears"; Jesus had followers and He had naysayers, but that never stopped His action in moving forward sharing the Word He had for the people whether they accepted or rejected what He was delivering. As believers in the Mighty Father, we must take a page from Jesus' book, He always had some who received and some who denied, what makes us think we're any better? You can go from accepted to rejected without warning or cause, but that has ZERO to do with your character and EVERYTHING to do with others' perception, culture, and societal norms. Sometimes our rejection is a means for God to redirect us to a path that better suits the person who He's called us to be; rejection doesn't mean you aren't dope or that you're unworthy, it just means that someone sucked at acknowledging and appreciating your worth and/or ability.

Zero Dean made this statement, "Rejection is neither an indication of value or talent. Remember that. If you believe in what you have to offer, then don’t stop offering it simply because some of those you offer it to reject it. Many people are simply not very good at recognizing talent or value. It doesn’t mean you won’t eventually find an audience that will" (Dean, Z. (2013). 'Rejection is Neither an Indication of Value or Talent', Zerosophy, 3 February. Available at https://rb.gy/mbowix. Accessed 19 April 2021). If you find yourself shifting from accepted to rejected, take pride in that. I believe that 9 times out of 10 it's because they secretly recognize your authentic journey toward advancement, growth, and self-improvement, be it personally, professionally, spiritually, or physically; the individuals doing the rejection are most likely bitter, immature, negative thinkers, energy demanders, and still unsure of themselves. An even stronger possibility is that God is shifting your focus to ensure that you're walking the path that is in alignment with His will, for your betterment. They say "misery loves company" but if/when your misery becomes your company, it's time to pack your bags and introduce yourself to new things, new people, new cultures, and new environments until you've cultivated joy and contentment. Then, expect to do it all again because growth is an everlasting process; if you're comfortable it's probably time to discover if there are areas in your life that God is leading you to improve, and while you do, bank on going from being accepted to rejected by others along the way, but DON'T take it personally. #SOW

 

POWER IN PRAYER: POWER IN PRAYER: Lord we thank you for life, love, grace, mercy, and favor. We're grateful that despite our transgressions you've forgiven us and accept our flaws and all, even when others reject us. Activate and accelerate your character traits within us, so that we may best serve others as efficient vessels for your Kingdom. Lord turn our attention and desire away from man's favor so that our focus is to seek alignment and approval from you. May we do exceedingly well as the salt and light in this world even if we go from being accepted to rejected. We ask to be delivered from strongholds, familiar spirits, bleak mindsets, demonic and negative influences, and soul ties; reveal the areas of our lives that need improvement and bring us to a place of understanding and receiving so that we develop a willingness and readiness to put into application the steps in which you have disclosed. Holy Spirit, fall fresh on us with a double anointing to inherit wisdom, knowledge, discernment, and understanding; may we use those blessings appropriately to think, speak, and behave in a way that glorifies you. Lord, we believe, but help our unbelief. As your angels and Holy Spirit do your bidding on Earth and in Heaven, protect us and them with your recourse as you bind, loose, and cast out the demonic spirits of distraction, destruction, retaliation, revenge, and backlash. All these things we ask and thank you, in the matchless name of Yeshua, Amen!

HEALTHY LIVING TIPS: Change begins within... Looking for an alternative meat substitute that isn't processed? Try making some homemade walnut "meat."

1. Soak a cup of raw walnuts with 1/4 of a cup of raw pumpkin seeds in some warm water for about 30-45 minutes, drain then rinse.
2. Pour the nuts and seeds into a food processor with some mushrooms and/or tofu.
3. Add about 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or liquid aminos, and a couple of splashes of what I like to call "Westchester" sauce because it's easier to pronounce than its actual name - Worcestershire.
4. I've only made this meat substitute for a breakfast scramble and tacos so far, so the seasoning profile I'm suggesting will be more on a fiesta tip: 1 teaspoon of paprika, garlic powder, and cumin, a dash of black pepper, chicken-less seasoning, mushroom umami seasoning, and citrusy garlic seasoning. I was fasting from meat and dairy the week that I executed this recipe, so all the dry seasonings I used were vegan.
5. Use the pulse setting to blend the ingredients, otherwise, it'll turn into mush, until the contents resemble beef crumbles.
6. Heat avocado, olive, or coconut oil on medium heat. Sauté some minced garlic, onions, and bell peppers for added flavor. Add your alternative meat, and simmer for about 4-5 minutes. If you cook it too long it'll make the crumbles dry with a texture of old taco meat crumbs that were sitting out overnight. Add more oil if needed. 
7. Prepare your tacos or add some crumbled tofu with turmeric for color, and season to taste, mushrooms, peppers, kale, and/or spinach for a breakfast scramble.
8. Serve and eat.

Walnut meat can be used in burritos, tacos, over salad, chili, spaghetti, breakfast scrambles, and anything else your imagination can conjure up. If you're not fond of my season choices, The Simple Veganista listed these alternatives to add depths of flavor to your meatless meat. 

• Mexican: cumin, chili powder, chipotle powder, cayenne, coriander, paprika, cilantro, and/or lime.
• Italian: oregano, basil, marjoram, sun-dried tomatoes, sage, thyme, rosemary, Italian seasoning, or Herbs de Provence.
• American: garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Indian: garlic, onion or ginger powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, and/or cayenne.

 Reference: (Julie. (2012). 'Walnut Meat (4 Ways)', The Simple Veganista. Available at https://rb.gy/e4n7ac. Accessed 19 April 2021)

As always, be mindful of the things you feed your body, both physically and figuratively. Be safe, be blessed, and prioritize your health and wellbeing!

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, or in need of general support, I invite you to join my virtual support group via Zoom; we meet every 3rd Sunday at 2:30 pm PST. Just text "heal" to (323) 800-8616 to be added to our text notifications/reminders. This week we'll be discussing how to cope with traumatic memories. #thecurseisbroken
2. Please take a moment to register your Ralph's, Food 4 Less, and/or Kroger Rewards cards to enroll your member number/phone number for the Ralph's/Food 4 Less Community Contribution Program to help Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (aka FMBS Inc., serving communities throughout Southern Cali since 2012) raise funds to give back to the community; for every purchase you make, a small % is given as a donation to our non-profit organization - your rewards points are NOT affected by this enrollment. To enroll, you must go to their website here http://www.friendsindeedpas.org/get-involved/ralphs-community-contribution-program/ and link your rewards cards and/or telephone numbers (Alt ID) to our organization each year, and we will earn money for every purchase made under your rewards cards. Your continued support is always appreciated.
3. Update on my 1st children's book, Color Isn't Who I AM © 2019: it's one step closer to being on a bookshelf near you.
4. Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.) helps to facilitate making an impact in surrounding at-risk and underprivileged communities throughout Southern California. Part of our mission is to help supply the homeless as well as needy families with food and hygiene bags throughout the year and especially during the holidays and to serve as mentors and/or advocates for at-risk youth and victims of abuse. But we've been on hiatus due to a lack of support from volunteers and board members. Help me get FMBS Inc. back active in the community yall! I have tons of ideas, yet, little know-how. However, I'm willing to learn; if you have any helpful information or affordable training opportunities please share, and reach out to me regarding your interest in service and/or to arrange another form of contribution; contact me via email at fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com, or leave a voicemail and/or text at (951) 790-2127.

JOIN OUR CAUSE: Fostering Mind, Body, and Soul Incorporated (FMBS Inc.) is on a never-ending quest to locate deserving individuals to extend our services to. Therefore, we are always in need of monetary donations and/or contributions of hygiene items, sealed snacks, bottled water, seasonal items (gloves, scarves, blankets, umbrellas, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.), mini bibles, reading books, and so forth; our YEAR-ROUND mission is to serve homeless and/or needy individuals and families in underprivileged communities throughout Southern California. We also need DEDICATED volunteers and members – is this your calling? Eventually, when we have met our need for volunteers and board members, we will extend our services to assist and address some of the needs of our veterans and their family members. We are successful because of YOUR continued support. Please continue to back us up through participation, and/or by encouraging others to join our cause!
 
For more information about our organization contact fmbsinc_2012@outlook.com. 

Respectfully,

Tylesha "Tye" Allen    Behavioral Interventionist | Mobile Notary | Author | Founder of FMBS Inc.   ·Mobile: (951) 790-2127   ·Address: Los Angeles, CA   ·Website: http://www.ready411.weebly.com | http://sodbytye.blogspot.com     ·Email: tyeallen99@yahoo.com    ·Change begins within; work on becoming a better You, now not later.   ·"It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." (Psalm 118:8)