Friday, February 26, 2010

FINANCIAL AND SCHOLASTIC TRAINING PROGRAM FOR GRADES 9 -12


PLEASE CLICK ON THE TITLE TO BE DIRECTED TO THE APPLICATION OR CLICK HERE:
http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0Bysr1-UfgR2-YmI1YTE2MjctMDJmOC00ZmJiLWFlOTItZWM1ZWNhNGFlN2Vk&hl=en

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

FAITH FRIDAY'S - LET THE WORD DO THE WORK!!!!!

LET THE WORD DO THE WORK

DONALD LAWRENCE

One word away! One word away! The power of life and death is in what you say Ooooh One word away! One word away! if you start confessing, you will start possessing The key to your success is a word away!(Repeat)

First you gotta Seek the work speak the word to life its in the book LOOK read the verses twice You can posses the best of the best And yes If you could confess, it could yours unless you don’t believe’but we got faith and we speak lifeI wish that yall could see yall face cause I see prosperity greatness all over you Just speak and then God will start showin youYour ministry is built on faith Your calender bout to be booked for 12 months straightSee -Certain levels was unreacheable But if you just speak it, who am I preach in to.

I’m not hear to rap I’m just teachn you The word works but first you gotta speak it to Your life every goal is still acheivable So Believe it and receive it, release it right now!One word away! One word away!The power of life and death is in what you say Ooooh One word away! One word away!if you start confessing, you will start possessing The key to your success is a word away!I speak New homes affordable mortgages Acres of Land Lord I want all of this I speak A new job that doubles my salary I believe God will make it reality To sow seed and reap the harvest It’s in the word I’mma bless you regardless I speak A new car whatever you send to me But let the gas prices drop tremendously Lord I speak,

That you bless me abundantly gimme the strength whenever the enemy comes for me And I speak I will pass this test This is God’s work at it’s best.I-I-I I speak Wealth in your life Health in your lifeFor all the pain you felt in your lifeBreak out let God break through Just watch the places that God will take you It isOne word away! One word away! The power of life and death is in what you say Ooooh One word away! One word away! if you start confessing, you will start possessing

The key to your success is a word away!Let the word do the work. Let the word Let the word do the work Let the word do the work. Let the word,Let the word do the work Let the word do the work. Let the word Let the word do the work Let the word do the work. Let the word Let the word do the work I speak Healing Prayer is the answer The doctor said there’s not more cancer I speak Increase so you could live, set free forget how the economy is I speak Your family members locked in jail new trial second chance my God don’t fail

I speak Blessing purchase possession, by faith just make your confessionsi f you start confessing, you will start possessing if you start confessing, you will start possessing if you start confessing, you will start possessing if you start confessing, you will start possessing if you start confessing, you will start possessing if you start confessing, you will start possessing The key to your success is a word away

Chant:Let the word do the work Let the word do the work Let the word do the work Let the word do the work Let the word do the work Let the word do the work Let the word do the work

Be a blessing and be blessed,

Epiphany Essentials

DAILY DEAL - FRIDAY'S

NO COVER FRIDAY'S

Butterfly Social Club 722 W Grand Ave
One Love DJ Papa G spins reggae 9 pm

Crimson Lounge 333 N Dearborn (Hotel Sax)
DJ Ricky Bradshaw spins $9

Red Kiva 1108 W. Randolph
DJ New Life spins Latin funk, soul, salsa, hip-hop and more 10P

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Thursday, February 25, 2010

FAITH REFRESHER

Hebrews 11:6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Do you have Faith? Do you truly have Faith, if you had faith just the size of a mustard seed you could speak to a mountain and it would be cast into the sea. Without Faith it is impossible to please God. If you want to please God increase your faith....where does faith come from? Romans 10:7 "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ."

Once you hear the word you must be a doer of the Word, faith without works is dead, and as you wait in faith you should have a spirit of expectancy trusting and believing that it is already done without doubt, worry or fear.

It is time for us to increase our Faith. Even the disciples who walked with Jesus struggled with their faith....he asked them more than once do you not have Faith. As if he were saying you just don't get it. You see me performing these miracles, you are a witness yet you still lack faith! We ourselves have witnessed the miracles of God in our lives and the lives of those around us, we also hear the Word, and read the Word therefore it is time for us to....

Increase our Faith!

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

DAILY DEAL - THURSDAY'S (FISH!!!!)

Cleos 1935 W. Chicago & 2048 W. Armitage
Fish and chips - $5.99

English 444 N La Salle St
Fish & Chips - $8

La Tache 1475 W. Balmoral
All you can eat fish fry and frites - $16.95

Mac's American Pub 1801 W Division
Fish & Chips - $8

Patsy's Place 2825 N Linconln Ave
All you can eat fish fry with chips - $8.95

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

The Best Brand Jewelry Online Auction! - Sponsored Post

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THE LORD IS.....

My Pastor is teaching a new series entitled The Lord Is.....

This past Sunday he said something profound in a way that I'd never thought of and I mentioned it in yesterday's message:

The Lord is someone before He is something....Lets look at Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd I shall not be in want. In order for the Lord to be your shepherd he must 1st be Lord of your life.

That should be the goal of all Christians to surrender every area of our lives to the Lord and allow him to have free reign. The analogy that the Pastor used is that God wants to be able to come into your home, rearrange it, move some things, even throw some things out if we wants to and we should be fine with that!

God being Lord means he is Master of everything in our lives our relationships, finances, children, bodies, etc.....EVERYTHING!

My Pastor mentioned that some people would be slimmer if God were Lord over their lives. I am sure the Pastor didn't mean that every woman would be a size 2 and every man would have LL Cool J abs. What I take that to mean is that we would be more mindful of the things that we put into our mouths, we would be mindful to exercise and be active. As 1 Corinthians 6:19- 20 "19Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."

We should honor God with our bodies, we should take care of our temple and return it back to God the same way in which he gave it to us for we are just borrowing it. You know when you loan something to someone you expect them to return it to you in the manner in which you gave it to them. If you loan someone your car and they return it and have put an ad on the side, a bumper sticker on the back, and it is missing a head light you will be upset as you loaned it to them in good faith that they would return it to you the same as it was given to them. That is how we should view and treat our bodies/lives.

This is a daily journey. It is a matter of making a conscious decision to do better, to make the best choices, to follow and obey the Word of God to be a doer of the Word daily. If you happen to slip/mess up, repent, and start over again....we will never be perfect but we can strive for perfection.

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

DAILY DEAL - WEDNESDAY'S

High Dive 1938 W Chicago Ave
$1 mini-cheeseburgers,

Landmark 1633 N Halsted
Half price bottles of wine, complimentary pizza with bottle purchase (7-8p)

Grand River 3032 N Lincoln Ave
$1.50 mini-burgers/chicken sandwiches, $5 glasses of wine, $4 drafts

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

TO BLESSED TO BE STREESED

I was blessed by a message from my Pastor on Sunday 'To Blessed To Be Stressed'. The basis of his sermon was Psalm 23:1 "The Lord is my shepherd I shall not be in want"

My Pastor went on to share with us what a shepherd does, they....
  • Guide
  • Protect
  • Provide
  • Comfort

My Pastor also spoke on worry and the root definition of it, to choke. When we choose to worry we are choking ourselves and also PLAYING GOD!. In Matthew 6:25 the bible clearly instructs us not to worry for tomorrow has worries of its own but to seek 1st the Kingdom of God and all good things shall be added unto you!!!!!!

Of course you are probably reading this saying that all sounds good but I am a human being and sometimes I can't help but worry. No problem I will give you that. I will give you 10 minutes to worry about something and then I highly encourage you to turn it over to the LORD. The Lord Is....the Great I AM WHO I AM is whatever you need when you need it and He is bigger than anything you could come up against in this life. I encourage you to look to the hills from which cometh your help. Focus on God, He may not change the storm(s) in your life nevertheless He will change you in the midst of the storm.

Worry is...

  • Useless
  • Unhelpful and
  • Unhealthy!

I mean seriously, think about it what has changed in your life due to you worrying? More than likely you were worried, made a rash decision out of emotions and create a bigger problem than the one you had....think about it for a moment.......

If you can say yes, by worrying your life has gotten better than keep on worrying. If you can be honest and say worry has been of no benefit to you.

I encourage you to turn it over, to read Matthew 6:25-33 and truly Let Go and Let God.

After all you are TOO BLESSED TO BE STRESSED!!!!!!!

And finally I cannot leave this part out but God must be Lord of your life before He can truly be your shepherd (we will visit that topic tomorrow so stay tuned).

Be a blessing and be blessed,

Epiphany Essentials

DAILY DEAL - TUESDAY'S

$5 Cocktails!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


10Pin 330 N State Street
$5 Svedka cocktails

Bad Dog Tavern 4535 N Leavitt Street
$5 Margaritas

The Franklin Tap 325 S Franklin
$5 martinis

The Orbit Room 2959 N California
$5 Templeton Rye cocktails

Silvie's Lounge 1902 W. Irving Park Road
$5 Grey Goose and Absolut cocktails

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Monday, February 22, 2010

Free School Guide - Sponsored Post

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The Little Things

Our tag line here at Epiphany Essentials is be a blessing and be blessed.

I have learned the power and goodness of random acts of kindness. The little things you do for someone you know or a total stranger that they didn't expect. Holding the door for someone, passing them a newspaper out of the bin, smiling, saying good morning, those are all things that are a blessing to someone else.

You can be a blessing just by doing something small, a little thing that goes a long way in the life of someone else. I have tried to practice this throughout my life but have been making a conscious effort to do it more.

I am here to testify that when you bless others blessings come back to you in return in ways that you least expect.

For example, as my son and I were walking into Chuck E. Cheese last week a lady that was leaving asked me was I going in with coupons. I in fact had coupons but I thanked her for her kindness she was going to bless me by helping me save money and by giving away something she no longer needed. The other day, I went to celebrate a friends 30th birthday. I found a parking spot about a block away downtown and was excited about that. The car parked in front of me, the couple happened to be moving and the gentleman offered me his parking ticket that didn't expire to 9P. My friend took the ticket and I praised God right there for the man could have drove off with the ticket and/or he could have asked for $$$ for it.

I say all of that to say that it takes little or nothing to be a blessing to someone else. I also encourage all to count their blessings and Thank God for even the little blessings that come your way!


Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

DAILY DEAL - FREE MONDAY'S!!!!!!

Burwood Tap 724 W Wrightwood
Free food buffet 8:15P (Monday - Thursday)

Duke of Ferth 2913 N Clark St
Buy one entree, burger or sandwich and get one free

Hunt Club 1100 N. State
Free chips and dip, $3 select beer cans

Raven's 2326 N Clark St
Free popcorn

Sedgwick's Bar & Grill 1935 N Sedgwick
Free pool, $7 pizzas, $15 Coors light

Wild Pug 4810 N. Broadway
Free pool

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Friday, February 19, 2010

FAITH FRIDAY'S - BETTER!

BETTER

by Kirk Franklin

If I could I, I'd get awayfar from all this trouble I see everyday Nobody wants to show their face This life is like a, like a masquerade I know you love me I know you care but while I'm hurting I just need to know your there Watchin over me and I feel your tellin me

Count it all joy, always remember, life will get better it's gonna get better No matter the weapon it will not prosper, things will get better it's gonna get better

Persecuted, pushed away, didn't think I'd live to see another daycried some tears and couldn't pray and when I tried at times I couldn't find the words to say, but nowI'm stronger, because of you without you Jesus I never could've made it through thank you for watchin me lovin me and tellin me

Count it all joy, always remember, life will get better it's gonna get betterNo matter the weapon it will not prosper, things will get better it's gonna get better

Life sometimes may change and nobody wants to feel pain, but it came to help you grow and this one thing you need to know God's in love with you and he'll never let you go

Count it all joy always remember, life will get better it's gonna get betterNo matter the weapon it will not prosper, things will get better it's gonna get betterit's gonna get betterit's gonna get betterit's gonna get betterit's gonna get betterit's gonna get betterit's gonna get betterit's gonna get better

Be a blessing and be blessed,

Epiphany Essentials

Thursday, February 18, 2010

YOU DON'T NEED A BALLER, YOU NEED GOD!

Last night, I began reading a book in the bible I'd never read before. The book of Hosea. Often times when I pick up my bible I will just roll the pages through my fingers and wherever it stops I read, so Hosea it was...

The verses below had a profound effect on me as soon as I read it. It made me think about myself in my early twenties, other women in my life that I know, and those whom I don't know, as well as what is being glorified more and more on television shows, songs, and videos. Women looking for "ballers" doing whatever it takes to be in the right place at the right time to get there come up in life. Instead of depending on God and their own talents and abilities.

Hosea 2:5-8 5 Their mother has been unfaithful and has conceived them in disgrace. She said, 'I will go after my lovers, who give me my food and my water, my wool and my linen, my oil and my drink.' 6 Therefore I will block her path with thornbushes; I will wall her in so that she cannot find her way. 7 She will chase after her lovers but not catch them; she will look for them but not find them. Then she will say, 'I will go back to my husband as at first, for then I was better off than now.' 8 She has not acknowledged that I was the one who gave her the grain, the new wine and oil, who lavished on her the silver and gold— which they used for Baal. (In the context of this scripture God is referring to Israel)

While God is referring to Israel in the scripture I want to bring this scripture to modern day, to the women in the World in search of that prince in shining armor that will come and provide for them and their families and save them. First let me tell you that you already have that prince/King and His name is Jesus!

I encourage you women to not forget that God is your Source and your sole Provider! He uses people here on earth to bless you and all of your blessings come from Him, and Him only. He deserves the Praise, the Honor, and the Glory. I think of songs on the radio where the women want to know where the ballers are at, is the man balling, what can the man buy or do for them and it saddens me.

Do not misunderstand me. The bible shows countless examples of men taking care of their families. I also, grew up in a household where my father was the main provider, took care of the household bills etc. I have a traditional feeling on the dynamics of a marriage and a household and what each gender should and should not do. My dad was the man of the house and did what he was supposed to do as a husband.

I just don't want women chasing after a man looking for him to provide what she feels she is lacking materially. I want women to be empowered, know, trust and believe that God supplies all of their needs according to His glorious riches, that God knows what you need before you even speak it, that the Lord is your shepherd and you shall not be in want! So instead of chasing after the ballers, chase after God and Praise your Way through!

Never give any man/woman on earth more time, attention, dedication, and love then you give God for all good things in your life come from Him and He wants to be at the top of your list. As the scripture states plainly in Matthew 10:37 37"Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."

Once you get in a right relationship with the one above and you love others as you love yourself, do unto others as you would have them to do unto you, and seek 1st the Kingdom of God, all good things will be added on to you. You won't have to look for them they will chase you down and over take you!

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

WE ARE THE BODY: HOW TO BECOME A PRACTICING CHURCH


In our postmodern world, what lost people need is to see faith embodied in the lives of those who believe. That's how they'll best discover that the Gospel is true.
Here's how your church can learn to better embody faith:

Be a contributor instead of a consumer. Don't approach your faith with the goal of simply seeing how much you can personally gain from it; be willing to make the sacrifices Jesus calls you to make so you can contribute to the world through your faith. Don't reduce the church to just a vendor of religious services; view at as missionary community called to spread the Gospel's message in the world. Rather than thinking of church as just a place to enjoy music and uplifting messages while making friends, think of it from God's perspective - as a place to learn how to become more like Jesus and serve others in need to fulfill His purposes. Pray for the ability to shift your focus from inward to outward. Ask God to help you discover, develop, and use the talents He has given you to help make the world a better place.
Be alert to the opportunities He places in your path, and be willing to respond to them.
Become a missionary to your culture. Study the culture that God has placed you in so you can learn how to communicate the Gospel message in the way that people in your time and place will best understand. Stay current on what messages the media (the Internet, movies, music, TV shows, etc.) is presenting, and think critically about how those messages reflect attitudes in your culture. Consider what questions people are asking about life and faith through the culture, and how you can point them toward biblical truth in ways they can relate to well. Remember to approach people as they actually are right now, not as you wish they were. Keep in mind that many people today aren't familiar with what the Bible says and don't view it as an authoritative source. You may need to help them notice how God is showing up in popular culture before encouraging them to read the Bible. When you do present the Gospel message, communicate it in a context suited for the time and place in which you minister to people.

Let people see a faith that's experiential. Ask yourself whether your church's worship services convey a sense of the transcendent reality of God. Give people plenty of opportunities to encounter God's power and beauty through worship practices like songs, prayers, Communion, teaching and proclaiming God's Word, art, and personal storytelling. When visitors witness God meeting people through sincere and passionate worship experiences, they can see the Gospel's truth in action. So show people what it looks like to praise God and invite Him to help you grow to become more like Jesus in the process.

Let people see a faith that's communal. Ask yourself if your church congregation manifests love for one another in such a way that it's an appealing community to people on the outside. People will more readily accept the Gospel's message when they see it embodied in a community of Christians - not just a lone individual. Commit to being shaped into Jesus' image through your relationships in your church community. Participate regularly in worship. Join a small group. Express your love for each other through kind and encouraging words and actions. Forgive each other when you each make mistakes, and reconcile your relationships. Serve the world together. Invite your non-Christian friends to serve alongside you so they can see God's love at work up close. Evangelize through personal relationships. Rather than just inviting people to events at your church, invite them fully into your life. Have them over to your home for meals, pursue common interests together (such as playing on the same sports team on the weekends), and talk about all aspects of your life so they'll see how God is at work throughout your life, not just when you go to church. When your non-Christian friends do come to visit your church, let them see how deeply you and those in your congregation are connected to one another because of how you participate in God's work together.

Let people see a faith that's enacted. Ask yourself if people can see God's purposes enacted in your life as you follow His call to go into the world and serve. Follow God's call into ministry projects of compassion and justice. That may mean volunteering at your local hospital or nursing home, collecting donations for your local food bank, building houses for the poor, delivering clothes and meals to homeless people, watching a single mom's kids so she can get a break, doing yard work for elderly neighbors, giving blood regularly or helping someone who needs a transplant - whatever God leads you to do. When you enact your faith through service, you show people what Jesus' love looks like in a tangible form. Rather than just saying prayers for people in need, be willing to be the answer to those prayers if God calls you to help. Then those who are watching will know that God is real because they'll see the reality of His love working through you.

Move beyond evangelism to discipleship. Don't stop at helping people find salvation. Encourage them to grow to become more like Jesus, as well. Help them mature in their faith. Introduce them to spiritual disciplines such as meditation, prayer, fasting, Bible study, simplicity, and solitude. Challenge them to consider how much more they're able to love God and other people every day through the ordinary decisions they make. Listen carefully to their thoughts and feelings. Be authentic and humble with them. Tell them stories of how God is working in your life and ask them to share what they notice about His work in their lives. Don't shy away from God's mystery and transcendence; capture their imaginations as well as their intellects. Encourage people to much more than just trust Jesus to get them to heaven. Invite them to participate in God's world-changing mission.

MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS

About 3 years ago I was reading the book of I Thessalonians and I came across this passage and was shocked that the bible said clearly and plainly mind your own business! "4:11Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands,"

So I was discussing this with a guy friend, as I took the verse to mean stay out of others people business. My friend took it a step further and said he felt it meant that you should take care of (mind) your own business. I think both of us are right. I see it like this...if you mind (take care of, tend to) your own business, you won't have the time, energy or desire to be in or concerned with someone else's business and what they are doing.

What is your business? In my opinion it is yourself, your personal growth/development, your children, your home, your job/business etc. It is our jobs to take care of our business and again with the time, energy, and zeal you devote to minding your business you will find it difficult to get in other people's business or concern yourself with gossip/slander etc!

In no way does this mean not helping others and being concerned for other people, helping the needy and the poor ;-)

Don't blame me, blame the bible and start to MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS!!!!!

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

CarrotSticks - Sponsored Post

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WORDS OF WISDOM

You will always be rich as long as you spend less than you make! Anon.

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

GO RED FOR WOMEN

Heart Disease is the #1 killer of women in the United States. Below is some key information that you need to know to be more informed and to take care of yourselves. Our bodies are not our own but they are temples of the spirit of God and we need to take care of them as best we can. We must do our part and let God do the rest! Be informed, be tested regularly, and take preventive measures.

from the website http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/heart-disease.cfm

What is heart disease?
Heart disease includes a number of problems affecting the heart and the blood vessels in the heart. Types of heart disease include:
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type and is the leading cause of heart attacks. When you have CAD, your arteries become hard and narrow. Blood has a hard time getting to the heart, so the heart does not get all the blood it needs. CAD can lead to:
Angina (an-JEYE-nuh). Angina is chest pain or discomfort that happens when the heart does not get enough blood. It may feel like a pressing or squeezing pain, often in the chest, but sometimes the pain is in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. It can also feel like indigestion (upset stomach). Angina is not a heart attack, but having angina means you are more likely to have a heart attack.
Heart attack. A heart attack occurs when an artery is severely or completely blocked, and the heart does not get the blood it needs for more than 20 minutes.
Heart failure occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood through the body as well as it should. This means that other organs, which normally get blood from the heart, do not get enough blood. It does not mean that the heart stops. Signs of heart failure include:
Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air)
Swelling in feet, ankles, and legs
Extreme tiredness
Heart arrhythmias (uh-RITH-mee-uhz) are changes in the beat of the heart. Most people have felt dizzy, faint, out of breath or had chest pains at one time. These changes in heartbeat are harmless for most people. As you get older, you are more likely to have arrhythmias. Don't panic if you have a few flutters or if your heart races once in a while. If you have flutters and other symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath, call 911 right away.

Do women need to worry about heart disease?
Yes. Among all U.S. women who die each year, one in four dies of heart disease. In 2004, nearly 60 percent more women died of cardiovascular disease (both heart disease and stroke) than from all cancers combined. The older a woman gets, the more likely she is to get heart disease. But women of all ages should be concerned about heart disease. All women should take steps to prevent heart disease.
Both men and women have heart attacks, but more women who have heart attacks die from them. Treatments can limit heart damage but they must be given as soon as possible after a heart attack starts. Ideally, treatment should start within one hour of the first symptoms.
If you think you're having a heart attack, call 911 right away. Tell the operator your symptoms and that you think you're having a heart attack.


Do women of color need to worry about heart disease?
Yes. African American and Hispanic American/Latina women should be concerned about getting heart disease because they tend to have more risk factors than white women. These risk factors include obesity, lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. If you're a woman of color,
take steps to reduce your risk factors.

What can I do to prevent heart disease?
You can reduce your chances of getting heart disease by taking these steps:
Take action to reduce heart disease risk:
Be physically active
Don't smoke
Eat healthy
Maintain a normal weight
Know your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides)

Know your blood pressure. Years of
high blood pressure can lead to heart disease. People with high blood pressure often have no symptoms, so have your blood pressure checked every 1 to 2 years and get treatment if you need it.
Don't smoke. If you smoke, try to quit. If you're having trouble quitting, there are products and programs that can help:
Nicotine patches and gums
Support groups
Programs to help you stop smoking Ask your doctor or nurse for help. For more information on quitting, visit
Quitting Smoking.
Get tested for
diabetes. People with diabetes have high blood glucose (often called blood sugar). People with high blood glucose often have no symptoms, so have your blood glucose checked regularly. Having diabetes raises your chances of getting heart disease. If you have diabetes, your doctor will decide if you need diabetes pills or insulin shots. Your doctor can also help you make a healthy eating and exercise plan.
Get your
cholesterol and triglyceride levels tested. High blood cholesterol (koh-LESS-tur-ol) can clog your arteries and keep your heart from getting the blood it needs. This can cause a heart attack. Triglycerides (treye-GLIH-suh-ryds) are a form of fat in your blood stream. High levels of triglycerides are linked to heart disease in some people. People with high blood cholesterol or high blood triglycerides often have no symptoms, so have both levels checked regularly. If your levels are high, talk to your doctor about what you can do to lower them. You may be able to lower your both levels by eating better and exercising more. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your cholesterol.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight raises your risk for heart disease. Calculate your
Body Mass Index (BMI) to see if you are at a healthy weight. Healthy food choices and physical activity are important to staying at a healthy weight:
Start by adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet.
Each week, aim to get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity.
If you drink alcohol, limit it to no more than one drink (one 12 ounce beer, one 5 ounce glass of wine, or one 1.5 ounce shot of hard liquor) a day.
Find healthy ways to cope with stress. Lower your stress level by talking to your friends, exercising, or writing in a journal.

What does high blood pressure have to do with heart disease?
Blood pressure is the force your blood makes against the walls of your arteries. The pressure is highest when your heart pumps blood into your arteries – when it beats. It is lowest between heart beats, when your heart relaxes. A doctor or nurse will write down your blood pressure as the higher number over the lower number. For instance, you could have a blood pressure of 110/70 (read as "110 over 70"). A blood pressure reading below 120/80 is usually considered normal. Very low blood pressure (lower than 90/60) can sometimes be a cause of concern and should be checked out by a doctor.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher. Years of high blood pressure can damage artery walls, causing them to become stiff and narrow. This includes the arteries carrying blood to the heart. As a result, your heart cannot get the blood it needs to work well. This can cause a heart attack.
A blood pressure reading of 120/80 to 139/89 is considered pre hypertension. This means that you don't have high blood pressure now but are likely to develop it in the future.

How can I lower my blood pressure?
If you have hypertension or pre hypertension, you may be able to lower your blood pressure by:
losing weight if you are overweight or obese
getting at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
limiting alcohol to one drink per day
quitting smoking if you smoke
reducing stress
following the
DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) Eating Plan, which includes cutting down on salt and sodium and eating healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products
If lifestyle changes do not lower your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medicine.

What does high cholesterol have to do with heart disease?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in cells in all parts of the body. When there is too much cholesterol in your blood, cholesterol can build up on the walls of your arteries and cause blood clots. Cholesterol can clog your arteries and keep your heart from getting the blood it needs. This can cause a heart attack.
There are two types of cholesterol:
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often called the "bad" type of cholesterol because it can clog the arteries that carry blood to your heart. For LDL, lower numbers are better.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as "good" cholesterol because it takes the bad cholesterol out of your blood and keeps it from building up in your arteries. For HDL, higher numbers are better.
All women age 20 and older should have their blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels checked at least once every 5 years.

What do my cholesterol and triglyceride numbers mean?
Total cholesterol level - Lower is better. Less than 200 mg/dL is best.
Total Cholesterol Level
Category
Less than 200 mg/dL
Desirable
200 - 239 mg/dL
Borderline high
240 mg/dL and above
High
LDL (bad) cholesterol - Lower is better. Less than 100 mg/dL is best.
LDL Cholesterol Level
Category
Less than 100 mg/dL
Optimal
100-129 mg/dL
Near optimal/above optimal
130-159 mg/dL
Borderline high
160-189 mg/dL
High
190 mg/dL and above
Very high
HDL (good) cholesterol - Higher is better. More than 60 mg/dL is best.
Triglyceride levels - Lower is better. Less than 150mg/dL is best.

How can I lower my cholesterol?
You can lower your cholesterol by taking these steps:
Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, losing weight can help lower your total cholesterol and LDL ("bad cholesterol") levels. Calculate your
Body Mass Index (BMI) to see if you are at a healthy weight. If not, try making small changes like eating an apple instead of potato chips, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking farther away from the entrance to your office, the grocery store, or the mall. (But be sure to park in a safe, well-lit spot.)
Eat better. Eat foods low in
saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
Eat more:
Fish, poultry (chicken, turkey--breast meat or drumstick is best), and lean meats (round, sirloin, tenderloin). Broil, bake, roast, or poach foods. Remove the fat and skin before eating.
Skim (fat-free) or low-fat (1%) milk and cheeses, and low-fat or nonfat yogurt
Fruits and vegetables (try for 5 a day)
Cereals, breads, rice, and pasta made from whole grains (such as "whole-wheat" or "whole-grain" bread and pasta, rye bread, brown rice, and oatmeal)
Eat less:
Organ meats (liver, kidney, brains)
Egg yolks
Fats (butter, lard) and oils
Packaged and processed foods
There are two diets that may help lower your cholesterol:
Heart Healthy Diet
Therapeutic Lifestyles Changes (TLC) Diet
Get moving. Exercise can help lower LDL ("bad cholesterol") and raise HDL ("good cholesterol"). Exercise at a moderate intensity for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes each week, or get 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity each week.
Take your medicine. If your doctor has prescribed medicine to lower your cholesterol, take it exactly as you have been told to.

How do I know if I have heart disease?
Heart disease often has no symptoms. But, there are some signs to watch for. Chest or arm pain or discomfort can be a symptom of heart disease and a warning sign of a heart attack. Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air), dizziness, nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), abnormal heartbeats, or feeling very tired also are signs. Talk with your doctor if you're having any of these symptoms. Tell your doctor that you are concerned about your heart. Your doctor will take a medical history, do a physical exam, and may order tests.

What are the signs of a heart attack?
For both women and men, the most common sign of a heart attack is:
Pain or discomfort in the center of the chest. The pain or discomfort can be mild or strong. It can last more than a few minutes, or it can go away and come back.
Other common signs of a heart attack include:
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air). The shortness of breath often occurs before or along with the chest pain or discomfort.
Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) or vomiting
Feeling faint or woozy
Breaking out in a cold sweat
Women are more likely than men to have these other common signs of a heart attack, particularly shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and pain in the back, neck, or jaw. Women are also more likely to have less common signs of a heart attack, including:
Heartburn
Loss of appetite
Feeling tired or weak
Coughing
Heart flutters
Sometimes the signs of a heart attack happen suddenly, but they can also develop slowly, over hours, days, and even weeks before a heart attack occurs.
The more heart attack signs that you have, the more likely it is that you are having a heart attack. Also, if you've already had a heart attack, your symptoms may not be the same for another one. Even if you're not sure you're having a heart attack, you should still have it checked out.
If you think you, or someone else, may be having a heart attack, wait no more than a few minutes—five at most—before calling 911.

One of my family members had a heart attack. Does that mean I'll have one too?
If your dad or brother had a heart attack before age 55, or if your mom or sister had one before age 65, you're more likely to develop heart disease. This does not mean you will have a heart attack. It means you should take extra good care of your heart to keep it healthy.

Sometimes my heart beats really fast and other times it feels like my heart skips a beat. Am I having a heart attack?
Most people have changes in their heartbeat from time to time. These changes in heartbeat are, for most people, harmless. As you get older, you're more likely to have heartbeats that feel different. Don't panic if you have a few flutters or if your heart races once in a while. If you have flutters and other symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air), call 911.


Should I take a daily aspirin to prevent heart attack?
Aspirin may be helpful for women at high risk, such as women who have already had a heart attack. Aspirin can have serious side effects and may be harmful when mixed with certain medicines. If you're thinking about taking aspirin, talk to your doctor first. If your doctor thinks aspirin is a good choice for you, be sure to take it exactly as your doctor tells you to.

Does taking birth control pills increase my risk for heart disease?
Taking birth control pills is generally safe for young, healthy women if they do not smoke. But birth control pills can pose heart disease risks for some women, especially women older than 35; women with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol; and women who smoke. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the pill.
If you're taking birth control pills, watch for signs of trouble, including:
Eye problems such as blurred or double vision
Pain in the upper body or arm
Bad headaches
Problems breathing
Spitting up blood
Swelling or pain in the leg
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Breast lumps
Unusual (not normal) heavy bleeding from your vagina
If you have any of these symptoms, call 911.

Does using the birth control patch increase my risk for heart disease?
The patch is generally safe for young, healthy women. The patch can pose heart disease risks for some women, especially women older than 35; women with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol; and women who smoke.
Recent studies show that women who use the patch may be exposed to more estrogen than women who use the birth control pill. Estrogen is the female hormone in birth control pills and the patch that keeps you from getting pregnant. Research is underway to see if the risk for blood clots is higher in patch users. Blood clots can lead to heart attack or stroke. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the patch.
If you're using the patch, watch for signs of trouble, including:
Eye problems such as blurred or double vision
Pain in the upper body or arm
Bad headaches
Problems breathing
Spitting up blood
Swelling or pain in the leg
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Breast lumps
Unusual (not normal) heavy bleeding from your vagina
If you have any of these symptoms, call 911.


Does menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) increase a woman's risk for heart disease?
Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) can help with some symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and bone loss, but there are risks, too. For some women, taking hormones can increase their chances of having a heart attack or stroke. If you decide to use hormones, use them at the lowest dose that helps for the shortest time needed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about MHT.
For more information
For more information on heart disease, please call womenshealth.gov at 1-800-994-9662 or contact the following organizations:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)Phone Number(s): (301) 592-8573Internet Address:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/index.htm
National Cholesterol Education ProgramNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/ncep
National High Blood Pressure Education ProgramNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/about/nhbpep/index.htm
Act In Time to Heart Attack Signs CampaignNational Heart Attack Alert ProgramNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)Phone Number(s): (301) 592-8573Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/actintime
The Heart TruthNational Awareness Campaign for Women about Heart DiseaseNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)Internet Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/hearttruth/index.htm
American Heart AssociationPhone Number(s): (800) 242-8721Internet Address: http://www.americanheart.org
WomenHeartPhone Number(s): (202) 728-7199Internet Address: http://www.womenheart.org

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Friday, February 12, 2010

FAITH FRIDAYS - NO BATTLE, NO BLESSING

There's no blessing without a battle but know that this battle's not yours. Oh no blessing without a battle but know that this battle's not yours.
You cried today Friends walked away Feels like your all alone No one to call No friends at all Seems like all hope is gone But God is there He's heard your prayers He'll open every door There's no blessing without a battle But Know that this battle's no yours Oh!
There's no blessing without a battle but know that this battle's not yours. Oh no blessing without a battle but know that this battle's not yours. Oh know that this battle's not yours.
Every burden, This is a battle; Every heartache, This is a battle; The tears that you cry; oh no, no, no, this battle's not yours. Every worry, This is a battle; Every sickness, This is a battle; God is standing by, He's heard your cry, No, no, this battle's not; You need to hold on!
Hold on, The battle's not yours, Um, Um, Um Um Shari: Hold on Hold on, For the battle's not yours Wait, wait on the Lord You need to be of good courage for this battle is not yours You, you've got to trust and believe God Hey even when you can't trace the Lord You need to pray about it, Hold on Fast about it; Be strong
Hold on be strong
Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Thursday, February 11, 2010

MORNING INSPIRATION

This is the day that the Lord has made rejoice and be glad in it? What do you have to rejoice or be glad about you may ask?

  • life
  • breath
  • sight
  • smell
  • feelings
  • thought
  • place of employment
  • roof over your head
  • clothes on your back
  • food in the cupboards
  • new mercy from God and definitely his grace

There is something on this list that you have right now and that is enough to rejoice and be glad in!

Be a blessing and be blessed,

Epiphany Essentials

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Wednesday, February 10, 2010

HOW TO THINK LIKE A MILLIONAIRE

I know that there are keys and tools to becoming successful. I also understand that successful people associate with and learn from other successful people. So I asked a good friend for a book that I was interested in reading. While he didn't have the particular book I wanted he sent me a list of books to choose from that were comparable. I chose to read How to Think Like A Millionaire.

When I requested the book I had no preconceived notions nor did I believe that when I finished reading the book that I would be a millionaire. Wow, was I wrong this book is short to the point and power packed with information. A lot of the things I knew already the problem was I knew them but was not putting them into practice.

I will not go into the details of the book, you will have to read it for yourself but there was a passage that stuck out to me and want to expand upon.

"Poverty seems to be a tradition in far too many families, an inherited trait like the color of one's hair or eyes, passed down from generation to generation. Its often more difficult for people whose families have always been poor to imagine that one day they can become rich. The image we get of ourselves and of life in general is often tinged with hopelessness and pessimism, and the role models that surround us are not always very inspiring."

Side Note: Some of the most successful people grew up impoverished it was out of their desperation/hopelessness that they became passionate about something and with a strong determination pursued their dreams!!!!!!

"The role models that surround us are not always very inspiring." Our parents can be our first deterrents to becoming successful adults! The book touches upon this as well. This makes me think of the movie Precious...there is a scene where Precious' mother tells her to stop dreaming and that she will be in the welfare line. Imagine a child full of dreams and hope for the future and the person who is supposed to be their biggest cheerleader, greatest inspiration tells them that they will amount to nothing! That has a profound impact on their psyche and will be with the child for years and years to come. To all the parents that are reading this be mindful of what you say to your child. Everyday you should be encouraging them with words. Even when they make mistakes or do something wrong. There is a loving way to correct them without destroying their confidence and their self image in the process.

Glory be to God that things can turn around. The change comes with a change of mindset and belief system in oneself and in God.

So, No what your parents did to you when you are a child is not an excuse for the state you are in right now because as an adult you have the right and the responsibility to change for the better. To learn from the past and to create a greater future.

Believe it or not everything starts in the mind. Your thoughts, beliefs, and speech have shaped the life that you live today. If you want to change your life, change your thoughts! The Good Book says it as well, as a man thinketh so is He!

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

LOUIS CARR INTERNSHIP FOUNDATION (LCIF)

About LCIF…

Louis Carr Internship Foundation (LCIF) provides 10 paid internships in communications to undergraduate students of color during the summer immediately following their freshman, sophomore or junior year of college.

Louis Carr established the not for profit, 50l(c)(3) Foundation in
2003 to increase multiculturalism and diversity in the communications industry. A veteran of over 20 years in communications, Carr knew that segments of the industry such as advertising, marketing, public relations and media sales were slow to develop the multiethnic workforces which reflected the changing racial composition of the USA and the challenges of multicultural global markets.

To ensure more minority representation Louis Carr, President of Media Sales, BET Holdings, Inc., structured the LCIF intern program with a two-fold mission. First, LCIF internships would give highly motivated minority students, who could not afford to take non-paying summer internships, a chance to get career-building experiences in top communications companies while earning needed money for college. Second, LCIF internship program would help companies to identify, recruit, and maintain a more multicultural workforce.

Since the Foundation debuted its paid summer internships, LCIF alumni include - 10 students from 2004; 15 coeds for 2005; 21 interns in 2006 and 2007; and 16 students in 2008. This summer the Foundation will award at least 10 LCIF Internships.

The application period is from November 1st to March 1st. On April 20th the Foundation will announce the summer LCIF interns on this website.
Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

SEE HIS GOODNESS

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

"I am confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living"(Psalm 27:13, NIV)

TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria

David was going through tough times when he made the declaration in today's verse. Things weren't going his way. But he said in effect, "I'm not worried. I'm not upset. I am confident I will see God's goodness." In other words, "This situation I'm in may be rough, but that's not going to steal my vision. That's not going to cause me to give up on my dreams. I am confident that this year, I will see God's favor in a new way."

That's what our attitude needs to be today because what you focus on is what you will see. No matter what the medical report says, no matter what your finances look like, no matter how bad that relationship may seem, be confident that you will see His goodness! He is the all-powerful, omniscient, Creator of the Universe, and He holds you in the palm of His hand. Nothing is too difficult for Him. Take hold of this truth by faith and focus on His goodness today. Allow His peace to settle in your heart and mind as you move forward in His blessing all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father in heaven, thank You for Your goodness in my life. I choose to focus on You today no matter what my circumstances may look like. Give me Your peace as I keep my mind stayed on You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Monday, February 8, 2010

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Sign up today and become an influencer http://mylikes.com/signup?token=johnai you earn $4 for every influencer that signs up and the money goes directly to a PayPal account you create. You also earn $ for clicks to advertisements that you post to your website/blog or on twitter.

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Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

JOEL OSTEEN - NOTHING IS WASTED

Nothing is Wasted

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose"(Romans 8:28, NIV)

TODAY'S WORD from Joel and Victoria

Life can be full of ups and downs, twists and turns. We've all had to face challenges and difficulties. But did you know that everything you've been through up until now is getting you prepared for what God is going to do in your future? Nothing in your life has been wasted. Every disappointment, every setback, every person that did you wrong, every lonely night, God is going to turn around and use for your good!

During the difficult times, we grow and mature. That's when our faith is stretched and our character is developed. God didn't send that hardship, but He'll use it to get you prepared for your next step. Those adversities will help make you and mold you into the person you are called to be.

You may be experiencing tough times today, but remember, nothing is ever wasted. Have the attitude that says, "This is a new day. Things are shifting in my favor. This difficulty is not going to stop me. It's going to promote me. It was meant to bring me down, but I know the truth; God is going to use it to lift me up and lead me into victory all the days of my life."

A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Father God, thank You for drawing me close to You. I choose to dwell in the secret place of Your presence. I know that with You, nothing in my life is wasted. Thank You for Your peace and protection as You carry me through the difficult places into the place of victory. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials

Friday, February 5, 2010

FAITH FRIDAY'S - SHOW UP


SHOW UP


"If there be anyone, who's going through

We have an answer to the problem for you

Trust and obey and never give in

Only the strong shall survive and win Just exercise your faith and know

He's the one If there is no sigh, keep this in mind;

He'll show up on timeIf there be anyone, who's going through We found the answer.....for you

Trust and obey and never give in

Only the strong shall survive and win

Just ask the question and the answer.... shall come Exercise your faith and know

He's the one If there is no sigh, keep this in mind;

He'll show up on time...If there be anyone, That's going through We fond the answer ...for you

Trust and obey and never give in...

Only the strong Shall survive and win

Just ask the question and the answer shall come Just exercise your faith and know

He's the one If there is no sigh, keep this in mind;

He'll show up on time God is not a man that will tell you a lie if He tells you so on Him you can rely If there is no sigh,

If there is no sigh, If there is no sigh, Keep this in mind, He'll show up on time Show up, show up, Show up, show up, God will, show up He'll show up on time

Show up, Show up Show up, show up, Show up, show up,

He will show up, show up, on time"

Believe it and receive it today. He may not come when you want Him to but he is always ON TIME!!!!! He will SHOW UP!!!!

Be a blessing and be blessed,

Epiphany Essentials

SUNDAY SUPER BOWL PARTIES

District Bar 170 W. Ontario St
$30 buffet and open bar, 40 plasmas to watch the game

Market 1113 W Randolph Street
$44 open bar and 1 appetizer

Rebel 3462 N Clark
$30 for well drinks, beer, half-price appetizers, and giveaways

Juniors Sports Lounge 724 W. Maxwell Street
No cover!

Drink and party responsibly!!!!!!!

Be a blessing and be blessed,
Epiphany Essentials