Your Daily Cup of Inspiration!

Haters Exposed!

I know we hear the word “hater” so much now until it’s almost cliché’, right? I must admit, for a long time I’ve had a personal aversion to the word. I somehow felt that it was kind of petty and silly. However, the longer I live, the more I realize that haters really do dwell among us in alarming numbers! Furthermore, it’s naïve to ignore this fact. Even though you may not adopt this particular moniker, there are three good adjectives that perfectly describe haters. Wanna hear ‘em? Here they go: Þ Jealous Þ Envious Þ Insecure Yep, that’s a near perfect assessment of their character. Got it? They’re jealous, envious and insecure. And if you plan to survive in this world and do all God has called you to do, expect to run into folks from “Hater-ville” on a... Read more →

Haters Exposed!

I know we hear the word “hater” so much now until it’s almost cliché’, right? I must admit, for a long time I’ve had a personal aversion to the word. I somehow felt that it was kind of petty and silly. However, the longer I live, the more I realize that haters really do dwell among us in alarming numbers! Furthermore, it’s naïve to ignore this fact. Even though you may not adopt this particular moniker, there are three good adjectives that perfectly describe haters. Wanna hear ‘em? Here they go: Þ Jealous Þ Envious Þ Insecure Yep, that’s a near perfect assessment of their character. Got it? They’re jealous, envious and insecure. And if you plan to survive in this world and do all God has called you to do, expect to run into folks from “Hater-ville” on a... Read more →

Belief: The Prerequisite to the Possession of Your Promise

I want to ask you a question today. What are you carrying around inside of you? What have you been holding in, that’s just screaming to get out? What is it? A business? A ministry? A book? An invention? C’mon, think about it. There’s got to be something. Now, you might wonder why I’m asking you this. Well, the reason is very simple. I want to stimulate and motivate you toward action. I want to be the impetus that assists you in realizing your maximum potential. It’s time. No, really it is. I’m not just saying that. Listen, you are an intelligent, creative, capable individual and there’s no conceivable reason why you shouldn’t be chasing your dreams. Surely, you may have some very real obstacles in your way, but don’t we all? Still, that’s not an excuse to be mediocre... Read more →

Belief: The Prerequisite to the Possession of Your Promise

I want to ask you a question today. What are you carrying around inside of you? What have you been holding in, that’s just screaming to get out? What is it? A business? A ministry? A book? An invention? C’mon, think about it. There’s got to be something. Now, you might wonder why I’m asking you this. Well, the reason is very simple. I want to stimulate and motivate you toward action. I want to be the impetus that assists you in realizing your maximum potential. It’s time. No, really it is. I’m not just saying that. Listen, you are an intelligent, creative, capable individual and there’s no conceivable reason why you shouldn’t be chasing your dreams. Surely, you may have some very real obstacles in your way, but don’t we all? Still, that’s not an excuse to be mediocre... Read more →

God is not going to Bail you Out.

Dianna's original quote for the day: "Prayer changes things, but you have to implement the changes." Today, I want you to focus on a very important principle. Here goes. “God’s favor does not eliminate your labor.” Simple, but revelatory . . . at least I think so. Please internalize that principle. It will change your life if you do. Essentially, today’s post piggybacks on what I was talking to you about yesterday. You have to take some initiative. You have to be motivated enough to go after what you want. Unfortunately, I think many of us have a false sense of entitlement. What do I mean by that? Before I answer, let me establish a foundation. Here’s what I believe: We are royalty. God has given us dominion. His favor rests upon us. He has given us power to accomplish... Read more →

God is not going to Bail you Out.

Dianna's original quote for the day: "Prayer changes things, but you have to implement the changes." Today, I want you to focus on a very important principle. Here goes. “God’s favor does not eliminate your labor.” Simple, but revelatory . . . at least I think so. Please internalize that principle. It will change your life if you do. Essentially, today’s post piggybacks on what I was talking to you about yesterday. You have to take some initiative. You have to be motivated enough to go after what you want. Unfortunately, I think many of us have a false sense of entitlement. What do I mean by that? Before I answer, let me establish a foundation. Here’s what I believe: We are royalty. God has given us dominion. His favor rests upon us. He has given us power to accomplish... Read more →

An Encouraging Word

There are four seeds I want to plant in the soil of your heart today. My prayer is that they will spring up into amazing productivity and increase. Here they are: 1. Anything that is worth having is worth working for. 2. Hard work pays off and pays well. 3. By acknowledging your culpability you unleash your capability. 4. Unwavering belief in your vision precedes increase in provision. Hear me well woman of God, if you desire to have anything of significance in your life, you must be willing to pursue it fervently. As you trust God to give you direction, He will give you favor every time. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9 NKJV). Until next time . . . may... Read more →

An Encouraging Word

There are four seeds I want to plant in the soil of your heart today. My prayer is that they will spring up into amazing productivity and increase. Here they are: 1. Anything that is worth having is worth working for. 2. Hard work pays off and pays well. 3. By acknowledging your culpability you unleash your capability. 4. Unwavering belief in your vision precedes increase in provision. Hear me well woman of God, if you desire to have anything of significance in your life, you must be willing to pursue it fervently. As you trust God to give you direction, He will give you favor every time. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9 NKJV). Until next time . . . may... Read more →

Worship Is Not a Style

All day today I've been thinking about how we, as a body of believers, need to return to true worship and holiness. It's what the Father so deeply desires for each of us. Now, I don't want you to click away from the blog because I said holiness! Don't act like that . . . hear me out. It's so easy to get caught up in the idea of worship and miss the true essence of it. You see, worship is not a casual, contrived, mechanical act that we engage in, from time to time. It is not a song. It is not a tongue. It is not a particular type of music. Rather, it is a lifestyle. Worship is exemplified in the life we live before God. Furthermore, the life we live is an outgrowth of the condition of... Read more →

You Have the Power. Use It!

I'm going to be brief today (At least my version of being brief), but I want to share something with you. If you want all that God has for you, be willing to go after it passionately and persistently. Don't be a quitter. Don't be a complainer. Don't be lazy. Why am I telling you this? I'll get to that in a moment, but first I really want you to evaluate your assumptions about business and ministry. What are your expectations? If you think you can put in minimal effort and get maximum results, you're sorely mistaken. Always remember, if you want to succeed in life, it takes hard work. It requires late nights and early mornings, delayed gratification, and plenty of sacrifices. Surely, you'll enjoy the fruit of your labor, but you have to first commit to doing the... Read more →

5 Keys to Seeing the Manifestation of What you Envision for Your Life

Today's post is so important. Why? Because it’s time for you to be released into a new dimension of abundance and prosperity. If you’ve been feeling stuck at the same plateau, now is your time to move beyond where you are. Perhaps, you have historically hit the “glass ceiling” over and over again. In your case, it may be difficult to believe that you can really surpass your current level. But, you can. Today, as you read this blog post, I believe you will find the confidence to venture beyond your present station into the place you’ve been envisioning for so long. First Key: Don’t be Deterred by Doubt It’s easy to fall into the trap of doubting your ability, especially when you feel called to an area you don’t have very much experience in. Sometimes, even when you do... Read more →

Just Say No

Stop allowing people to twist your arm into doing things you don't want to do. Learn how to assert yourself and be honest with others about your true feelings. I mentioned this same issue in a previous post, yet I think it bears repeating. All too often we get stuck in situations we despise, because we won't go against the grain. We value the opinions of others more than ourselves. One of my favorite authors, Stephen Covey says, learn how to give "a pleasant no." Isn't that sound advice? I mean, sometimes you need to put a nice smile on your face and just say "no." Don't make excuses for it. Don't throw out "fifty-leven" disclaimers. Just tell folks, flat out no. If you're one of those people who suffers from the "disease to please," this particular post might not... Read more →

Mind your Own Business

I'm sure you've heard the expression, "mind your business." Am I right? I know I have. Perhaps, you can remember coming up in a household where you were taught to "stay outta grown folks bit-ness." You may have even been popped upside the head from time to time for disobeying this cardinal rule. Can you relate to that? Well, have you ever considered that this law still applies even in adulthood? I’m serious. As adults, I think we sometimes get too involved in the affairs of other adults. We have our personal opinions and philosophies about what everybody else should do. And if we're not careful, we'll try to run other people's lives for them, when really, that's not our place. Let me tell you something that can potentially save you from undue stress and high blood pressure. Don't get... Read more →

Turn it Off

My heart sometimes bleeds when I look at the plight of our society. There's such a decline in spiritual and moral values. What are we as Christian women to do? As the mother of four young children, I sometimes shudder to think of what the condition of our world will be, once they're grown and gone. With lines constantly blurred on issues of sexuality, religion, as well as, the breakdown of the family, what will they build their faith upon? I may not have all the answers, but I do know one thing. Our children must be able to look at our lives as an example of purity and Christ-likeness. If they can't see the love of God at work in us where else can they go? I don't allow my children to watch just any old thing . .... Read more →

Go Ahead and Eat the Big Frog

When it comes to prioritizing, you may have heard it said, "Eat the biggest frog first." That simply means begin with the tasks that are most unpleasant and then, tackle the lesser evils. All too often, we want lots of playtime and minimal work time. But life doesn't work that way. In order to be successful, you must make some serious sacrifices. Now, I don't mean neglect your spiritual and familial obligations. If you do that, you're setting yourself up for failure anyway. Instead, I'm suggesting that you release those non-essential things that monopolize your time and minimize your productivity. For you, it may be excessively long telephone conversations with friends and family. Or, too many hours of television. Or, sleeping too much. Or, any number of things. Now ask yourself, "Do I need to reprioritize specific areas of my... Read more →

Wait for Clearance!

Oftentimes, when you feel stagnant, you're really growing. Isn't that ironic? You're actually moving forward, though you seem to be standing still. It is during these trying times when God is developing your patience and faith in Him. He wants you to learn to trust Him, even when you seem to be stuck in the same predicament. I know it can be quite frustrating, but remain encouraged during this season. It reminds me of a recent flight I took. Initially, everything seemed to be on course. The plane arrived on time. We boarded. We hopped on the runway. And . . . just sat . . . and sat, for an hour and a half. As you might imagine, the tension and irritability on the plane was palpable. I mean, people were seething. Meetings were being missed. Appointments were being... Read more →

Stop Worrying About People

Hey ladies! Alrighty then, let's jump into it. Today I want to focus on something very important and I want you to listen well. I speak to so many women who struggle with the desire to be accepted and validated. They find themselves searching for the love and approval of others. They end up compromising their integrity to fill a void in their hearts. Unfortunately, few ever realize that the very thing they seek is within. Here's a bit of advice I want to give you. Never look for affirmation from others. You must give that to yourself. How? By seeing yourself as God sees you. Don't wait for someone else to tell you that, you're good enough. You must know that already. Because as long as your worth is tied to their opinion, everytime their opinion of you changes,... Read more →

The Gift of Goodbye

Hello EEW Ladies! I want you to remember something very important. There will be relationships in your life that will abruptly come to an end. You won't be expecting it. You won't necessarily see it coming. But, just one day . . . out of the blue . . . that person fades off the scene. You may even be close to them. They may be a business partner or a relative. But, inevitably, that time will come in your life, and when it does, don't fret. This is where the "gift of goodbye" comes in. I call it a gift because, often, it's a blessing in disguise. There are some people you don't need in your life. They simply hinder you. They impede your progress. They severely limit your ability to soar. Unfortunately, you can't see it until they're... Read more →

How do I Grow my Business or Ministry?

So . . . have you asked that question at some point? Do you feel somewhat stuck? Can’t figure out where to begin? Is the phone not ringing? Having difficulty gaining support for what you have to offer? Whatever the case, you're not alone. All of us go through it at some point. Don't be discouraged. You know, sometimes you just need, what I call "AAA," an acronym for Advice, Adjust, and Advertise. If perhaps you can't figure out the reason for your "slow" or "no" growth, begin with the three steps below. They're simple, yet powerful strategies. 1. Get advice. Ask other professionals and successful people. Have you considered that, there are countless individuals who have already done what you're currently attempting to do? You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Why not call them up? Or, pick up... Read more →

It's Your Turn!

Hey! It's Dianna, giving you some soul food to get you through your day. I woke up this morning with a lot of things on my mind. There's one thought in particular that, I want to share with you today. That is, at some point you have to stop sitting back, watching others, live their purpose. You have to seize your opportunity. It's your turn. I sincerely believe that, there's no way that you'll be fulfilled if you don't begin taking steps toward what God has called you to do. Aren't you tired of being in the same situation? Not using your creative gifts? Not living life to the fullest? Well, you don't have to go through life breathing on the glass, window shopping. You can truly have the things you want. I know from experience that if you can... Read more →

Assert Yourself!

Hello again EEW ladies! There's lots going on in my world right now, but I won't bore you with the litany of things I could stand to vent about. Rather, I'll focus in on one issue in particular. Well . . . I'm in the middle of major negotiations for a few upcoming projects. Anyway, one offer in particular, is very attractive. And I must admit, I'm enthusiastic about the prospects. However, I ran into a slight problem while fleshing out the details. I noticed a few things about the deal that were a little disarming. Now, obviously, I could've looked the other way. Especially in light of the fact that we're not talking about chump change here. But I elected to do something different. I decided that I wouldn't overlook the details that were bothering me. Instead, I took... Read more →

Could TV Be Ruining Your Little Ones?

I ran across a video that sparked my interest and I want to share my thoughts with you. I'll briefly review the contents of the one minute clip from "Katie Couric's Notebook," which airs on ABC Nightly News. Essentially, her musings are based upon the alarmingly high number of babies and toddlers that are consuming television, before they're developmentally able to process what they're seeing. What about your precious little ones? How much TV do they consume on a regular basis? What are they watching? Is it healthy? It's important to know. Anyone who knows me well will tell you, I strongly advocate monitoring what children take in, especially during their formidable years. My husband Kenya and I, are sticklers about this issue with our 4 mini-Hobbs. We have to be, because marketers are targeting our children with TV shows,... Read more →

How to Find Balance in your Life

So . . . the million dollar question is, "Is it possible to find balance when you've got a million and one things to do?" Well, it depends on how you define the word balance. I mean, if you think that everyday is going to run smoothly, you'll have it together all the time, and you'll be perfectly organized 100% of the time. Then, no, you won't find balance . . . at least, not the kind I'm referring to. So then, Dianna Hobbs, how do you define balance? I'm glad you asked that question. Although I don't have the perfect answer (no one does), I'll give it my best shot. I think it means having equilibrium, harmony, and stability in your life; essentially, not living in extremes. Does that make sense? You see, I don't believe that it's possible... Read more →

Worship Is Not a Style

All day today I've been thinking about how we, as a body of believers, need to return to true worship and holiness. It's what the Father so deeply desires for each of us. Now, I don't want you to click away from the blog because I said holiness! Don't act like that . . . hear me out. It's so easy to get caught up in the idea of worship and miss the true essence of it. You see, worship is not a casual, contrived, mechanical act that we engage in, from time to time. It is not a song. It is not a tongue. It is not a particular type of music. Rather, it is a lifestyle. Worship is exemplified in the life we live before God. Furthermore, the life we live is an outgrowth of the condition of... Read more →

You Have the Power. Use It!

I'm going to be brief today (At least my version of being brief), but I want to share something with you. If you want all that God has for you, be willing to go after it passionately and persistently. Don't be a quitter. Don't be a complainer. Don't be lazy. Why am I telling you this? I'll get to that in a moment, but first I really want you to evaluate your assumptions about business and ministry. What are your expectations? If you think you can put in minimal effort and get maximum results, you're sorely mistaken. Always remember, if you want to succeed in life, it takes hard work. It requires late nights and early mornings, delayed gratification, and plenty of sacrifices. Surely, you'll enjoy the fruit of your labor, but you have to first commit to doing the... Read more →

5 Keys to Seeing the Manifestation of What you Envision for Your Life

Today's post is so important. Why? Because it’s time for you to be released into a new dimension of abundance and prosperity. If you’ve been feeling stuck at the same plateau, now is your time to move beyond where you are. Perhaps, you have historically hit the “glass ceiling” over and over again. In your case, it may be difficult to believe that you can really surpass your current level. But, you can. Today, as you read this blog post, I believe you will find the confidence to venture beyond your present station into the place you’ve been envisioning for so long. First Key: Don’t be Deterred by Doubt It’s easy to fall into the trap of doubting your ability, especially when you feel called to an area you don’t have very much experience in. Sometimes, even when you do... Read more →

Just Say No

Stop allowing people to twist your arm into doing things you don't want to do. Learn how to assert yourself and be honest with others about your true feelings. I mentioned this same issue in a previous post, yet I think it bears repeating. All too often we get stuck in situations we despise, because we won't go against the grain. We value the opinions of others more than ourselves. One of my favorite authors, Stephen Covey says, learn how to give "a pleasant no." Isn't that sound advice? I mean, sometimes you need to put a nice smile on your face and just say "no." Don't make excuses for it. Don't throw out "fifty-leven" disclaimers. Just tell folks, flat out no. If you're one of those people who suffers from the "disease to please," this particular post might not... Read more →

Mind your Own Business

I'm sure you've heard the expression, "mind your business." Am I right? I know I have. Perhaps, you can remember coming up in a household where you were taught to "stay outta grown folks bit-ness." You may have even been popped upside the head from time to time for disobeying this cardinal rule. Can you relate to that? Well, have you ever considered that this law still applies even in adulthood? I’m serious. As adults, I think we sometimes get too involved in the affairs of other adults. We have our personal opinions and philosophies about what everybody else should do. And if we're not careful, we'll try to run other people's lives for them, when really, that's not our place. Let me tell you something that can potentially save you from undue stress and high blood pressure. Don't get... Read more →

Turn it Off

My heart sometimes bleeds when I look at the plight of our society. There's such a decline in spiritual and moral values. What are we as Christian women to do? As the mother of four young children, I sometimes shudder to think of what the condition of our world will be, once they're grown and gone. With lines constantly blurred on issues of sexuality, religion, as well as, the breakdown of the family, what will they build their faith upon? I may not have all the answers, but I do know one thing. Our children must be able to look at our lives as an example of purity and Christ-likeness. If they can't see the love of God at work in us where else can they go? I don't allow my children to watch just any old thing . .... Read more →

Go Ahead and Eat the Big Frog

When it comes to prioritizing, you may have heard it said, "Eat the biggest frog first." That simply means begin with the tasks that are most unpleasant and then, tackle the lesser evils. All too often, we want lots of playtime and minimal work time. But life doesn't work that way. In order to be successful, you must make some serious sacrifices. Now, I don't mean neglect your spiritual and familial obligations. If you do that, you're setting yourself up for failure anyway. Instead, I'm suggesting that you release those non-essential things that monopolize your time and minimize your productivity. For you, it may be excessively long telephone conversations with friends and family. Or, too many hours of television. Or, sleeping too much. Or, any number of things. Now ask yourself, "Do I need to reprioritize specific areas of my... Read more →

Wait for Clearance!

Oftentimes, when you feel stagnant, you're really growing. Isn't that ironic? You're actually moving forward, though you seem to be standing still. It is during these trying times when God is developing your patience and faith in Him. He wants you to learn to trust Him, even when you seem to be stuck in the same predicament. I know it can be quite frustrating, but remain encouraged during this season. It reminds me of a recent flight I took. Initially, everything seemed to be on course. The plane arrived on time. We boarded. We hopped on the runway. And . . . just sat . . . and sat, for an hour and a half. As you might imagine, the tension and irritability on the plane was palpable. I mean, people were seething. Meetings were being missed. Appointments were being... Read more →

Stop Worrying About People

Hey ladies! Alrighty then, let's jump into it. Today I want to focus on something very important and I want you to listen well. I speak to so many women who struggle with the desire to be accepted and validated. They find themselves searching for the love and approval of others. They end up compromising their integrity to fill a void in their hearts. Unfortunately, few ever realize that the very thing they seek is within. Here's a bit of advice I want to give you. Never look for affirmation from others. You must give that to yourself. How? By seeing yourself as God sees you. Don't wait for someone else to tell you that, you're good enough. You must know that already. Because as long as your worth is tied to their opinion, everytime their opinion of you changes,... Read more →

The Gift of Goodbye

Hello EEW Ladies! I want you to remember something very important. There will be relationships in your life that will abruptly come to an end. You won't be expecting it. You won't necessarily see it coming. But, just one day . . . out of the blue . . . that person fades off the scene. You may even be close to them. They may be a business partner or a relative. But, inevitably, that time will come in your life, and when it does, don't fret. This is where the "gift of goodbye" comes in. I call it a gift because, often, it's a blessing in disguise. There are some people you don't need in your life. They simply hinder you. They impede your progress. They severely limit your ability to soar. Unfortunately, you can't see it until they're... Read more →

How do I Grow my Business or Ministry?

So . . . have you asked that question at some point? Do you feel somewhat stuck? Can’t figure out where to begin? Is the phone not ringing? Having difficulty gaining support for what you have to offer? Whatever the case, you're not alone. All of us go through it at some point. Don't be discouraged. You know, sometimes you just need, what I call "AAA," an acronym for Advice, Adjust, and Advertise. If perhaps you can't figure out the reason for your "slow" or "no" growth, begin with the three steps below. They're simple, yet powerful strategies. 1. Get advice. Ask other professionals and successful people. Have you considered that, there are countless individuals who have already done what you're currently attempting to do? You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Why not call them up? Or, pick up... Read more →

It's Your Turn!

Hey! It's Dianna, giving you some soul food to get you through your day. I woke up this morning with a lot of things on my mind. There's one thought in particular that, I want to share with you today. That is, at some point you have to stop sitting back, watching others, live their purpose. You have to seize your opportunity. It's your turn. I sincerely believe that, there's no way that you'll be fulfilled if you don't begin taking steps toward what God has called you to do. Aren't you tired of being in the same situation? Not using your creative gifts? Not living life to the fullest? Well, you don't have to go through life breathing on the glass, window shopping. You can truly have the things you want. I know from experience that if you can... Read more →

Assert Yourself!

Hello again EEW ladies! There's lots going on in my world right now, but I won't bore you with the litany of things I could stand to vent about. Rather, I'll focus in on one issue in particular. Well . . . I'm in the middle of major negotiations for a few upcoming projects. Anyway, one offer in particular, is very attractive. And I must admit, I'm enthusiastic about the prospects. However, I ran into a slight problem while fleshing out the details. I noticed a few things about the deal that were a little disarming. Now, obviously, I could've looked the other way. Especially in light of the fact that we're not talking about chump change here. But I elected to do something different. I decided that I wouldn't overlook the details that were bothering me. Instead, I took... Read more →

Could TV Be Ruining Your Little Ones?

I ran across a video that sparked my interest and I want to share my thoughts with you. I'll briefly review the contents of the one minute clip from "Katie Couric's Notebook," which airs on ABC Nightly News. Essentially, her musings are based upon the alarmingly high number of babies and toddlers that are consuming television, before they're developmentally able to process what they're seeing. What about your precious little ones? How much TV do they consume on a regular basis? What are they watching? Is it healthy? It's important to know. Anyone who knows me well will tell you, I strongly advocate monitoring what children take in, especially during their formidable years. My husband Kenya and I, are sticklers about this issue with our 4 mini-Hobbs. We have to be, because marketers are targeting our children with TV shows,... Read more →

How to Find Balance in your Life

So . . . the million dollar question is, "Is it possible to find balance when you've got a million and one things to do?" Well, it depends on how you define the word balance. I mean, if you think that everyday is going to run smoothly, you'll have it together all the time, and you'll be perfectly organized 100% of the time. Then, no, you won't find balance . . . at least, not the kind I'm referring to. So then, Dianna Hobbs, how do you define balance? I'm glad you asked that question. Although I don't have the perfect answer (no one does), I'll give it my best shot. I think it means having equilibrium, harmony, and stability in your life; essentially, not living in extremes. Does that make sense? You see, I don't believe that it's possible... Read more →