PAIN POSITIONED ME, PASSION PROVOKED ME, PURPOSE PROPELLED ME ~ Dana McCartney-Candillo

I remember trying to drive my old, junky car away from his house. I was gasping for air, I could not breathe. I had lost the only good thing in my life, the love of my life, my heart. I can say this is the closest I ever felt to being suicidal. I drove hysterically to an old friend’s house; reverting to my old self-searching for drugs to numb this intense pain. I was in so much pain. I could not lift my head.~SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL

When the Pain is so great, we are motivated to create change! It is no longer negotiable! We will pursue relentlessly! Do you want to be made well? The Greatest Example that I can apply is the story found in scripture of the man at the  pool of Bethesda. John 5:6-9 says, When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” “Sir, the invalid replied, ” I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Get Up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.

When we are hurting, this is what we may believe about ourselves; that we cannot take steps on our own toward the pool of water. We may feel feelings such as devalued, unloved, disconnected, rejected, alone,helpless and powerless. Can we ask the Lord, What do you say about me? How do you see me? As we begin to answer these questions, can we Embrace our Truth? Can we Embrace Grace? Friends, pain is like a double-edged sword. It can be a catalyst for Change! Pain can birth goals, desires, and passion. It can spark creativity and motivation. It can spark a Fire! And that blaze can refine your heart, spirit, and soul. It can redefine your self image, mold, and shape a new heart and once again become fully alive with Hope. That kind of exchange is what brings about new things to life. When we are able to deal with our own feelings and emotions (in which knowing that feelings are not always right), then we gain the capability to help others walk through painful circumstances in this life. Let’s face it, we live in a world filled with pain. Jesus said there would be, John 16:33 says,” I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

As we hold true to His Word and Trust, we can walk whole and free. When painful things come our way we can stand firm on His Truth and be strong for not only ourselves but for others going through the storms of life. Our stories can unlock someone else’s prison! Know that what we are not able to master, will eventually master us. So Today, Master Pain, Put on the full armor of God so that you can move in a relentless pursuit toward reaching others in their trials and difficulties. Remember it is not about us….it is about them! When you can speak to Pain and Reach One-You can reach the World…One by One! ~ Pain is my Pulpit,

Dana

I went home that first night with several hundred dollars. I could not believe the gold mine that I had found! I had no clue of the price tag attached to it! I had no idea of the years of tears, fears, anxiety, scars, distress and damage that it was going to eventually cause me.~ (SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

What are you spending your time searching for? How far would you GO to find it? If you are looking through the lens of the naked eye or even binoculars, All that Glitters Is Not Gold! Like foolish love you may engage in the chase only to find an empty mine. It is Fools Gold! It’s shine and luster radiate only  a superficial resemblance of Gold. To look for it is like a romantic race searching and searching for a long lost treasure. Where does true treasure exist? Will you travel the Globe or will you be still and look deep inside yourself? Will you search for it in others, things, places, items, relationships, or achievements? They will throw their silver into the streets, and their gold will be an unclean thing. Their silver and gold will not be able to save them in the day of the LORD’S wrath. They will not satisfy their hunger or fill their stomachs with it, for it had made them stumble into sin”.~ Ezekiel 7:19 NIV.

I have searched ALL over, every stone overturned and came up empty handed with nothing. I have found Nothing in cheap fool’s gold to compare with pure gold. I NEVER found gold in a bottle, drugs, an  immoral/outrageous lifestyle, money, houses, cars, traveled places or academic achievements! I NEVER found pure gold that any amount of money could buy!  The pure gold is only found when the heart is tested, this is where all the treasure lies. It’s within the broken vessel, the heart of man. The real Gold Mine is found in a relationship with Christ. I don’t know about you but I have searched the world over and traveled far and wide and come up with the obvious conclusion:  I’ve found Nothing else to compare or satisfy. This third I will put into the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. they will call on my name and I will answer them; I will say, “They are my people”, and they will say, “The Lord is our God.”~ Zechariah 13:9 NIV.

This treasure awaits and is everlasting! It is a treasure worth storing up! Anything less than the pure gold found in Jesus will leave the mine hollow and empty.   Have you found your Gold Mine?…… How far will you GO to find it?….Min. Dana McCartney Candillo

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Then the Father comes to him from above and speaks~The Father informs him that he has forgotten who he is so in turn he has forgotten the Father. He tells him to look inside himself and acknowledge that he is “More” than what he has become…and that he Must take his rightful place in the Kingdom (the Circle of Life)!~SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL

Do you struggle at times with who you have become? Do you often wonder “What is My Purpose”? Do you consider what it would be like to Rise to the occasion and take your rightful  place next to the King, and walk in the purpose that He has created and called you for? When you “Remember who you Are”, you can and will process through and move into your Destiny. We must realize that we are His Royalty, His Heirs and He has a plan for each and every one of us to fulfill. When you Rise and Walk with Him, you become Fully Alive. He takes us by the hand and guides us in new paths, new directions, and orchestrates our steps. With Him we can walk in deep waters, travel to new heights, and move in new levels of the supernatural. Only when we forget who we are and forget who He is, will we begin to sink. A life with Him will require great Trust and being required to abide in the uncomfortable zone. I have found the uncomfortable zone to be a great challenge but experienced the miraculous, unforeseen, moving of the Holy Spirit in ways that can barely be humanly expressed. I have walked in realms where I Know it is clearly His mighty shield surrounding and protecting me in ways that are unexplainable. Many times, I’ve laid down my plan and agenda and just stood amazed at His leading and watched as unexpected doors flew open and favor is fallen and relationships and trust is attained to allow tremendous ministry opportunities. When we move in His Circle, Nothing is breaking it nor entering in that He doesn’t allow. If He says drink the cup, He means drink the cup and If He says take the bread, he means take the bread. Will we obey? Will we deliver when we are uncomfortable? When it doesn’t fit in our agenda? Will we Rise, carry our cross, face the unthinkable at times, minister “out of the box”, skip out of the ordinary to experience the Extraordinary? Jesus Did…and the stone was rolled away, He was obedient to the cross, He is the ONE, Seated at the Right hand of the Father and He gave the Victor’s Crown!! He calls us to Follow and Rise and Build His Kingdom, to help and guide others on their journey. This Easter will you Rise, take your place, find your purpose and Invite someone into His house, into His presence, so that they may hear and learn of His Great Love and Plans….THE EASTER MESSAGE!

THE SET-UP: He literally begged and pressured me, coercing me with compliments of how beautiful I was and what a “killer body” I had and that I would make “so much money”, assuring me that I would be one of his top earners. He had “accounts” set up……He would not let up with his pressure tactics and manipulation. He had it all planned out….he had a hotel set up…..He just kept on pressuring saying that I would make thousands of dollars…..I got in my old car and set off to follow JT’s instructions. Under his influence and direction, I now feel (at that point) in my life I was being trafficked into the sex industry. (SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

As January~~Human Sex Trafficking Awareness month comes to a close many thoughts come to mind. Not many people have full clarity or understanding on what that label actually means or can fathom and grasp it’s harsh realities. One thing is for sure, It IS NOT just happening in other countries…It IS happening in the United States in EVERY zip code! To some it can mean several different things and takes on many forms and layers. It’s many facets are dark, brutal, sinister, and difficult to measure or escape. Statistics claim that it’s entanglement occurs more times than not by baiting and mind control rather than force. Layers of flattery, games, fear, manipulation, domination, degradation, shame, devaluing, lies, false illusions of reality, force, coercion, harassment, drugs and alcohol, bondage tactics , and rape of the soul are all involved realities of this twisted and sick monopoly game. The internet and pornography are fueling the epidemic. It involves predators profiling and victimizing the weak for selfish gain and profit. When we talk about the sex industry as a whole it encompasses various degrees of sexual exploitation and violation. Many victims are lured by false promises only to find it was bait and switch and becomes instantly a battlefield of the mind. Most victims have already been sexually abused and/or abandoned as children. Many endured the hardships of foster care, runaways, horrific home lives, and worse. However a person gets sucked in, once involved it gets darker and darker and becomes total entrapment. What can be done to prevent, help, rescue, and restore? First and Foremost~We begin with FIERCE Prayer. Without Jesus, there is No Real Rescue! * We raise awareness and know what red flags to look for, we educate others. *We need to reach out with a Non-judgmental approach, love and acceptance and LOVE people right where they are at! *We need to resource people. * We need to live in the light, hunt in the dark, and not walk in fear. * We need to answer the call to loving foster homes and provide safety-taking in older children and teens that have already most likely been through unimaginable terrors in their young lives. * We need to advocate for justice * We need to BE THE CHURCH! * We need to support women and help provide tools and teach with love-the Word of God and plant seeds that will result in the PROCESS of a beautiful Transformation and Healing. * We need to commit to the cause of Reaching One and ending the sexual exploitation of women and children in our communities and our nation. **WHAT are you willing to do? Are you willing to take the first step and unite in prayer? Are you willing to get your hands dirty? Will you fight for freedom and  justice? Will you commit to not click?  Will you remain part of the problem or part of the solution? Everyone can DO SOMETHING!

It is up to us to listen and hear. Just then I heard that “still small voice” saying to me, “Get out of here! You do not belong here; this is not for you…Do Not Return”! (SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

That Voice…soft, quiet, and still. It is so simple & surreal…dreamlike but so real. If we  position ourselves to hear from Heaven, Jesus surely speaks. His voice is clear & concise and will orchestrate and lead the way. Its tone is peaceful and gentle yet so Powerful and Directive. So many times in my life I was relying on it and did not even know it! If we’ve know Him, He never leaves. Even in the midst of trials, mistakes, poor decisions, times of trouble, and steering off track, He is big enough to keep us! Even then, He is still speaking….it’s up to us to listen. In my most difficult times when I was sinking deeper and deeper that voice was Still there. At times I tried to avoid it, thinking I could figure it all out myself. After all, I was the one running. So Many times just as I was about to make the greatest mistakes and worst decisions that could’ve changed the course of my life Forever…that Voice got louder. It eventually got louder and louder as I was reaching the point of desperation and reached a point in the wall that I could no longer climb. I didn’t need a hand out, I needed a helping hand! That still small voice reached the depths of my soul and extended a hand of Grace that no one else has the capability to offer! It transformed my mind, heart, & soul. It has caused me to chase after the wind to find it. It is a Must Have.  That voice is what is meant & needed to breathe. Without it, who can find real direction or destiny? He will lead us to Purpose. I am always listening for it, now I Know it.  When I stand at the edge of the Ocean, It is Crystal Clear. Who’s voice are you listening to today? Who are you trusting? ~ Dana

Spirit Lead me where my trust is without borders, let me walk upon the waters wherever you will call me . Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander and my faith will be made stronger in the presence of my savior. (Oceans, Hillsong)

In closing, may I say to the church, the Body of Christ–-there are many seeds of greatness sitting in congregations today just waiting to be lifted and called forth. We can never judge a book by the cover or know who we are speaking to or what soil our words are falling on. We must be the hands and feet of Jesus and extend grace and mercy to people and love them right where they are.  (SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

There are some shoes you will never walk in, want to walk in, or be forced to walk in. Some shoes are high and  glamourized, uncomfortable and very hard to walk in, and they hurt! They can hurt in more ways than one. They may have been handed down, selected for you, fitted for you, bought for you or thought to be so beautiful that you put them on yourself, never realizing the price tag that was attached to them.  Later to find they were way too expensive, costly, and hurt to the point of damaging your feet and your walk…..there’s no way to really run in them!  Whatever the many reasons were that you ended up wearing them-sometimes they’re awful hard to take off and let go of…sometimes you refuse to take them off because they have an emotional attachment. Let’s face it, women love shoes! They say, “When the shoe fits, wear it”! Sometimes we will  wear those shoes until we can no longer bare it, until the heels are falling apart, straps worn out, and our feet aching beyond belief! We become dependant on them, not knowing that another style may look, feel, and fit so much better. Can you stop and think what shoes you were wearing before these were placed on your feet? What was your walk like before? Were there seeds deposited in your life before you put your high-priced stilettos on and walked away? Can you slow down your pace or will  you fall hard on your knees? Some shoes were only designed for appearances and are best to remain on the shelf!

One thing is for sure, it’s not certain what  the reason for the choice of the shoes ever was but there is Always a Why behind the What! We cannot judge people for where/how they are walking in life…we don’t know what’s behind the shoes. It’s most likely shame, pain, abuse, trauma, single parenthood,  drugs, and possible force. If her shoes carry her into the church, will you judge by the style or will you see beyond the cracked heels and worn out leather to call out the seeds of greatness, plant deeper seeds and cultivate the soil? Will you frown, judge, and turn her away?…If so there’s a high likelihood she will eventually  burn out and be at risk–  she may fall prey to trafficking in the hands of a pimp. Will you choose to LOVE her right were she is at? Who knows, she may trade in her stilettos for a great pair of running shoes! She may decide to run for God! She may just be the next Stripper to Saint! ~Dana~

HE makes All things “NEW”! (He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5 NIV)…..Likewise when we look into the human heart and begin to strip away the entire hardened exterior, beneath all of the pain and scars from life, lays the protected original and unique state, tender, soft, and pliable. When the true condition is exposed and vulnerable; it then is ready to be molded and shaped in truth by the Potter’s hand. Once again it becomes fully ALIVE! (SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

With this New Year, are you ready for God to do a “New Thing” in your Life? What is that one thing that you have been putting off, dreaming about, praying about, and waiting for? God wants to do a new thing in your life! Are you ready and willing to participate? It will most likely involve getting up off of the sofa! Getting out of your comfort zone, saying Yes and setting your feet in motion! We have to move along side of God. Do not allow the delay of fear or intimidation to hold you back any longer! Fear & Intimidation are not of God! If God has called you to do something “out of the box”…Just do it! Don’t worry about thoughts of others…people fear what they do not understand and/or do not want to learn about. Whatever God’s plan & purpose is for your life ~ it is Yours! If He has something New for you to do then He will not fail you! It is better to be obedient and try and experience His plan of Glory than to ultimately live in regret with the thoughts of never knowing what you may have missed out on! Just remember whatever the Past holds…it is the PAST!…..Your future is awaiting…Find YOUR Purpose & Arise, Come Alive  in 2015!~Dana

“He had an extraordinary plan that one day He would allow me to recognize as He revealed it. A mighty plan to be a bridge over and across a great divide. A bridge that troubled water could become calm and flow into a river of peace. A bridge set apart with a divine destiny and purpose”……(SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

What does it mean to become a bridge, to stand in the gap? What does it mean to be a “Gap Leader”? Perhaps you may say it means an outstretched arm, a welcoming invitation, or  an extension of direction. What if that’s not enough? What if standing in the gap actually means becoming like a bridge, becoming Love in Action? Love in action would actually look like visualizing the issue or the problem and deciding to “do something” about it! It is not enough to see it, pass by, and/or ignore it. A Gap Leader would let down the draw bridge, walk over it herself, get her hands dirty, take action, confront the circumstance, love, rescue and lead the person across the great divide where peace abides and destiny awaits. I am reminded of the Good Samaritan . I would definitely consider him to be a Gap Leader. As the others all passed by the beaten and rejected man (Luke 10:30), they just kept walking by. They saw the situation, a person hurt, broken, lost, and in great need but had no intention of getting involved or correcting the injustice. However, as the Good Samaritan strolled by…at one glance he took pity, was moved by compassion and decided to be the bridge-the gap and decided to take action. His actions involved Love and Mercy. He helped the person across the bridge to safety and to be made well.  The actions of the leader stood as a great example and model of sacrifice. Sometimes love in action requires a risk, people talking, embarrassment, and becoming a target. When we step out on faith to “do something” great, something that could change the world, it is not always easily accepted. I have found that it is greater to walk in Love, destiny, and purpose than to remain in my seat, watch the injustices, visualize the troubled water and sit back or walk by and do nothing. What will it take to cause you to rise up, stand in the gap, get your hands dirty, and set forth in motion Love in Action? What will it take to propel you to another level and fill in some gaps for the sake of the Savior? He is our example~ Love in Action!

There are times that I have felt a love, appreciation, and thankfulness far greater than I have ever felt in church or in “Christian circles”.  I pray that this ministry breaks down barriers and attitudes of religiosity and judgmental spirits and is a true example of “carrying our cross”.-(SURRENDERED SHOWGIRL)

We are so very THANKFUL for this ministry that has been entrusted to us by the Lord! I’m thankful every day for the passionate & committed women who dedicate so much time and effort to The Lion’s Beauty Queens Ministry!! Without each of you, I could not be leading this ministry with Excellence. I’m so thankful for All 5 LBQ Teams serving throughout the “Heartland of the Midwest”. We ARE the “Heart of America”!!! As well so very gracious for my team in San Diego~you make my travels easy & prepare the way for me to do all that is needed there with confidence! I’m so very thankful for every Club door that has opened for our ministry in 10 cities: Kansas City, Olathe, Springhill, Bashor, Lawrence, Topeka, Warrensburg, Junction City, Salina, & Oceanside, California!! As well we are Blessed and Thankful for our chapter ministry of LBQManhattan & team there! Every month we stand amazed and in awe of all the incredible works that continually happen. We know we are just messengers and that it is ALL HIM! Thankful for the courage that was granted to step out on this journey 3 & 1/2 years ago and so blessed to see the priceless harvest. It is a privilege to have this unique opportunity to walk out the “Real Love” of God. Today we received a gracious Thank You in the mail to LBQ from a Club Manager and all the ladies for the Thanksgiving Dinner we brought to them this month! They were so appreciative and stated that they felt “loved” & that they “Love Us”!~Brings Tears!~Thanksgiving Blessings to all! What are you truly Thankful for Today?~Dana