Sister Table Talk Blog

In many faith practices, "submission" holds deep spiritual significance. It can represent humility before the divine, mutual respect between partners, and the voluntary yielding of one's will as an act of devotion. However, this beautiful spiritual principle becomes contorted into something unrecognizable, a tool of control, limitation, and inequality. The Distortion of a Sacred Concept When examining religious texts across traditions, submission is not considered a gendered subjugation. Instead, it is a mutual spiritual practice, a reciprocal dance of respect and consideration. In Christian contexts, for example, while Ephesians 5:22 instructs wives to submit to their husbands, the preceding verse (oftentimes overlooked) calls for mutual submission: Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ . The distortion occurs when submission becomes one-directional, demanded from women while exempting men from the same standard. This selective application transforms a s...

For the love of money is the root of all evil… (1 Timothy 6:10). In times of economic uncertainty, leadership decisions shape the financial stability of millions. Today, we are witnessing a political and economic shift that prioritizes wealth accumulation at the expense of everyday people. Under the policies established by Donald Trump, tax cuts for corporations and the ultra-wealthy have widened the economic divide, while federal programs designed to uplift working families have faced severe cuts. When financial gain drives our decision-making, this scripture warns us about the love of money when the most vulnerable suffer. A System That Prioritizes Power Over People Recent economic policies have made it clear that pursuing wealth for a select few is the priority over the well-being of the majority. By dismantling social safety nets and privatizing essential services, these decisions disproportionately affect women, especially women of color, who depend on government-supported ...

Women of color often face societal and cultural conditioning that causes them to wait for permission to take up space, step into leadership roles, and pursue their aspirations. This conditioning forces women to believe they must possess the necessary credentials, extensive experience, and external approvals before taking risks. However, women should take the initiative and seize opportunities without needing permission to strive for greatness. When examining the experiences of inspirational women, it becomes clear that many did not wait for the perfect moment or ideal circumstances to invest in themselves. They embraced uncertainty, trusted their instincts, and moved forward despite their fears. This approach can be a powerful example for others seeking to achieve their dreams and goals. Your Potential Is Your Permission You don’t need another certification, another nod of approval, or another validation to step into your power. Your existence, resilience, and God-given gifts ar...

In the current political landscape, many people feel a sense of despair, making hope seem elusive. However, the account of Paul and Silas found in Acts 16:25-34 is a compelling example of how praise and faith can lead to transformative experiences, even amid challenging circumstances. This story illustrates the power of resilience and spiritual conviction in times of adversity. Finding Hope Amidst Despair Paul and Silas refused to succumb to fear or bitterness while in prison. Instead, they chose to pray and sing hymns - an act of defiance against despair. Their courageous worship in the depths of a dark prison cell created a ripple effect. It was not a personal act of faith; it became a beacon of hope that reached the heart of their jailer, prompting a life-changing encounter. In the dimly lit confines of their prison cell, Paul and Silas stood resolute, refusing to let fear or bitterness take hold of their spirits. Instead of wallowing in despair, they lifted their voices in pra...

January ushers a blank canvas to begin anew, inviting us to envision new possibilities, dream bold dreams, and step into the unknown with strength, courage, and faith. Jeremiah 43:19 states, Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. This powerful verse reminds us that no matter how barren or desolate our circumstances may appear, God is at work, creating paths where there were none and bringing life to dry, weary places. A Time to Let Go Before fully embracing the new, we must release our doubts, fears, and disappointments that no longer serve us and trust that God has a plan greater than anything we leave behind. A Time to Trust The wilderness and wasteland symbolize uncertainty and hardship; however, it is precisely in these places that God demonstrates His power. Trust the new thing God is doing in your life is not merely a possibility; it is already in motion, waiting for ...

In an unexpected corporate announcement, Party City declared the closure of its stores, leaving countless employees to face the shocking news that today would be their last day. The sudden upheaval is a stark reminder of how quickly life can shift, turning the familiar into the uncertain. But, when the rug feels pulled from under our feet, we must keep our eyes on the prize. The term keep your eye on the prize originates from the Civil Rights Movement, a rallying cry to stay focused on the ultimate goal despite challenges. Today, it resonates as a call to action for those grappling with Party City’s closure and the countless others who have experienced sudden life disruptions. Let’s explore how we can remain steadfast and turn these setbacks into opportunities for growth and transformation. Reframe the Narrative A job loss can feel devastating especially when done abruptly, but it can also be a moment to pause and reassess. Ask yourself the following: What skills have I gained in ...

“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. "Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20) Mountains are awe-inspiring symbols of strength, grandeur, and permanence. When we experience personal challenges that seem immovable, it can be hard to believe they can come down. Whether these mountains are fear, doubt, financial struggles, broken relationships, or health issues, overcoming mountains can seem unbearable. But, Jesus teaches in the Gospel of Matthew that our faith as small as a mustard seed has the power to dismantle mountains. The Transformative Power of Faith Faith is more than a belief; it is a confident assurance in things unseen. It is an active trust in the ability of the work of God in our lives, no matter how dire the circumstances may be, and our faith speaks life into situations where there seems to be no hope, allowing us to visualize our victories before t...

In life, individuals will face challenges like disappointment, defeat, fear, and feelings of victimization that can lead to a sense of paralysis or an inability to progress. John 5:8-16 offers a powerful message of hope and transformation with insights that can assist individuals navigate through difficult moments. In this passage, the reader will learn about an invalid man of thirty-eight years who would lie by the pool of Bethesda, hoping someone would help him enter the water to get healed. The invalid man was disappointed when he observed others jump in the pool before him to receive the healing he desperately needed and desired; however, something remarkable happened when Jesus entered his life. Jesus saw him lying at the pool and learned the invalid man had his condition for a long time, and He asked him, "Do you want to get well?" The man replied, explaining why he couldn't get healed, and Jesus told him, "Get up, pick up your bed, and walk!" Imm...

Kamala Harris’s presidential loss doesn’t define your worth or the value of your dreams. Her historic journey to the vice presidency proves that Black women belong in spaces long denied to us. Though this chapter didn’t end as many hoped, it is not the end of the story. Remember, your power is rooted in your resilience, brilliance, and ability to rise, not tied to the outcome of elections - Harris’s journey reminds us that breaking barriers isn’t always about winning; it’s about paving paths for others to follow. When doubt creeps in, remember your ancestors who endured unimaginable struggles and still found ways to thrive. You are their wildest dreams realized. Hold your head high, and know that your contributions matter, your voice is vital, and your dreams remain valid. Rise, Black women - your story continues, and it’s more powerful than ever. Keep persevering; the world needs your light.

The biblical story about the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon is an intriguing and memorable encounter between royalty. It depicts a tale of wisdom, wealth, and the relentless pursuit of understanding, all set against a royal meeting that has captivated minds for centuries. The Queen of Sheba was impressed by the wisdom of King Solomon (not merely intellectual prowess, but a gift from God) and the excellence depicted throughout his kingdom, and this biblical story offers several lessons we can use to cultivate a spirit of excellence in our daily lives: Pursue knowledge actively: Like the Queen of Sheba, we should go out of our way to seek wisdom and understanding (e.g., reading widely, engaging in challenging conversations, or seeking mentors). Ask probing questions: Don't be afraid to ask difficult questions to pursue knowledge and truth. The Queen of Sheba came prepared with "challenging questions" to verify Solomon's wisdom because learning can ...

When our immediate needs become overwhelming during our most challenging circumstances (e.g., debt, a grim diagnosis, or a sense of hopelessness), we can turn to God. Second Kings, Chapter 4 offers a profound lesson in faith, resourcefulness, and divine provision. It tells us the story of a poor widow at the end of her rope who did not know what to do or where to turn during her pain and poverty; however, when she turned to the Lord, she experienced a miraculous intervention. The widow is the wife of one of the sons of the prophets (i.e., men training under Prophet Elisha to be prophets and preachers in Israel). Her husband - a lover, friend, provider, and protector, had been taken away from her in death, and she is devastated because her husband is dead and she cannot pay her bills. The widow is over her head in debt and can lose her sons to creditors to work as slaves to liquidate her debt, according to Jewish Law (Leviticus 25:39). Despite her problems, the widow held f...

A woman commented about how filthy a white car was when sitting in traffic and looking through her passenger side window. To further validate her observation, she rolled down her window and discovered that her passenger window was dirty, not the white car. This experience is an example of our minds.  Our minds can be as clean or dirty as the car windows, depending on the season, environment, or the number of times the car or windows get cleansed. Proverbs 23:7a states, "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." How we think and feel about ourselves is reflected in our behavior and how we view the world and others. If we want to improve our perceptions and views of the world and others, we must transform the way we think. To start your journey of spiritual, emotional, and mental transformation, separate yourself from negative people and environments - even family members. Watch what you feed your mind and determine its impact. Remember, GIGO (i.e., garbage in, ga...

In times of disappointment like defeat, fear, illness, or joblessness, we may feel stuck and unable to move forward. However, the message from John 5:3-9 offers hope and guidance during challenging times. This passage talks about an impotent man of thirty-eight years who lay by the pool of Bethesda every day waiting to be placed in the pool to receive the same healing he watched others receive. Jesus saw the impotent man lying near the pool and asked, "Do you want to get well?" The helpless man replied, "When the water is troubled, I have no man to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth in before me." Then Jesus said, "Get up, pick up your mat and walk!" Immediately, he picked up his mat and walked. This passage is a powerful analogy when we feel trapped in a cycle of disappointment or circumstances that seem hard to conquer or rise above. Just as Jesus offered healing and a new beginning to the impotent man, we can also fin...

Oprah Winfrey is known for her wisdom and insights on personal development and motivation, and the following are our interpretations of her inspiring ways to get motivated to achieve your dreams: Define Your Goals: Being specific about what you want to achieve and why gives you direction and purpose. Visualize Success: Imagine yourself achieving your dreams and goals to help you create powerful images in your mind to stay focused and motivated. Believe in Yourself: Trusting and believing in your abilities to achieve your dreams and goals will empower you to overcome obstacles and stay encouraged. Take Action: Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps and take consistent action to keep you moving toward your goals. Stay Positive: Maintain a positive mindset by focusing on solutions, not problems, and stay surrounded by positive influences. Learn from Failures: Treat your mistakes as lessons learned and move on because setbacks are not the end but stepping stones ...

In a world that equates liberty with the absence of restraint and freedom, true liberty transcends physical or societal freedoms and finds its fullest expression in the presence of the Spirit of God that abides within. God's divine presence frees us from external constraints and liberates our hearts, minds, and souls - enabling us to live in true liberty. The Nature of True Liberty True liberty is the freedom to live in alignment with our highest selves and divine purpose because this form of liberty is rooted in spiritual freedom, which begins with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. When the Spirit of God abides within us, we are no longer slaves to sin, fear, or worldly temptations. We can pursue a life of righteousness, peace, and joy. The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit The presence of the Holy Spirit transforms us from within, renewing our minds and changing our hearts. This transformation allows us to see the world through the eyes of love, compassion, and truth. ...

What we do in the dark shall come to light is a condensed, interpretative verse of Luke 12:2-3 . This verse explains how our deep, dark secrets or sins can rise to the surface despite our efforts to bury or keep them hidden. This blog post discusses the allegations, denial, and confessed abuse of Sean P. Diddy Combs against Cassandra 'Cassie' Ventura. In November 2023, Ms. Ventura settled a lawsuit against Mr. Combs for his alleged sex trafficking and sexual assault during their relationship; however, Mr. Combs vehemently denied the allegations, and his attorneys called the lawsuits and accusations as money grabs, baseless, or sickening . Surveillance footage obtained by CNN on May 17, 2023 , shows Mr. Combs's actions corroborating with Ms. Ventura's originally filed complaint - Mr. Combs chasing Ms. Ventura down the hallway of the InterContinental Hotel in Century City, Los Angeles, forcibly grabbing her by the back of her sweater, throwing her to the ground, and ...

Proverbs 18:21 states, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." This verse speaks volumes about the profound impact our words can have on shaping the lives of others and the world around us. As bearers of God's image and word, we should wield our tongues for empowerment, connection, and positive change to inspire individuals to flourish and thrive. Let us always choose words that speak life and blessings, recognizing the transformative potential we contain in the power of our tongues.

Love is a powerful force that can infiltrate light in the darkness and melt the hardness of a cold heart. It is a force that is supposed to represent God's love on Earth through relationships. However, when people do not understand the purpose of love, they abuse it! They ask people to do things to prove their loyalty and love that is contrary to God's purpose and His love. On the other hand, when Jesus died on the Cross, He did so to express His unconditional love for humankind. He knew the shedding of His blood on the Cross would be the final time blood would have to be shed for our redemption from sin. Jesus did not shrink or go into hiding. On His journey, He would step away for restoration to continue his ministry and mission. But Jesus never went into hiding because He was clear about who He was, who He was serving, and why He was serving. Today, many women are in relationships where they have chosen to shrink instead of allowing their love to illuminate b...

A student wanted to call his mother to tell her he was not having a good day. A teacher asked him why wasn't he having a good day, and he replied, "because nobody likes me." The teacher asked his permission to ask the class if they liked him, and he said, "no." This student has been operating from the belief that all the students at the school do not like him and that he does not fit in. The sad thing is he cannot provide solid proof to validate his feelings or assumptions. There are a large number of people living according to the fallacy of their feelings! Feelings are tricky! They seldom can be solidified without facts. However, people would rather live in captivity by holding onto their feelings instead of seeking divine truth that can release them from the lies intertwined in their feelings. We were created in the image of God to serve Him and to live a victorious, abundant life! But if we do not realize why God created us, we will shortchange ou...

When God made you, He spoke to Himself. Everything God created outside of Himself, He spoke into existence (e.g., Let there be), and it was! When God made humanity, He spoke to Himself and said, Let us make man in our image after our likeness (Genesis 1:26). The image of God is Triune (i.e., three beings in one)! He is God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The image of man is Triune too (i.e., Soul, Body, and Spirit). Being made in God’s image reflects His holiness, His righteous, and His love. When God spoke to Himself to form humanity, He wanted to demonstrate His love through fellowship when He said, “It’s not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). Another part of being made in God’s image is the freedom to choose. Adam and Eve were righteous until they ate the forbidden fruit (i.e., rebel against God). Their rebellion marred the image of God within themselves and their decedents. And the scars of their decision (i.e., mentally, socially, morally, and ph...