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Ask La Veeta: Advice Column

Q. I have been in deliverance ministry all my saved life and know some women who also have deliverance ministries. But none of them call their deliverance ministry unorthodox. Why do you call your church an unorthodox deliverance ministry?

A. La Veeta Ivory Ministries is not a church. It's a teaching ministry for women who desire to be delivered from sexual promiscuity and self-defeating behavior patterns.

Traditionally, when church women come together for a time of "healing and deliverance" most of the time is spent crying and Holy Ghost-hugging and female-bonding, and receiving a prophesy from someone who needs much deliverance themselves. And whereas, emotionally, many leave feeling better very few, if any, leave actually delivered from what is holding them captive and spiritually bound.

The coming-together-to-feel-better meet-ups are accepted as orthodox or in other words customary or conventional, as a means or method of receiving spiritual deliverance.

However, the truth of the matter is that true deliverance is a combination of sacrifice and discipline, not a particular religious routine, or hype or gimmicks. Sacrifice and discipline. An individual has to be taught how to develop a lifestyle that will bring forth deliverance in each area of their life. Simply feeling better is not enough.

My teaching ministry is considered unorthodox because it is not conventional, meaning it does not conform or adhere to accepted standards, as of conduct or what is considered "tasteful" for Christian ministry. Nonetheless it is both powerful and effective; and, yielding positive results for the upbuilding of God's kingdom is what I'm all about.

Q. What's the difference between imagination and a vision, far as knowing and getting a word from God?

A. The imagination is the formation of mental images that are not real. And being that no facts exist to bring the imagery into reality, what the individual sees in their mind at that moment is based on sheer fantasy and not actuality. For example, you could imagine that you are a millionaire and, yet, not have two nickels to rub together. The fact of the matter is your imaginary wealth must be backed with factual evidence in order for it to exist beyond your imagination.

Knowing the will of God and getting a word from God has nothing to do with our imaginations. The Word declares, "God is a Spirit..." (John 4:24 KJV) He is not make-believe, nor does He instruct His people through methods of pretense. He moves by His Spirit!

It is extremely important to have a clear understanding of how the Spirit of the Lord operates in and through you as an individual. God speaks uniquely different to each of His children according to their situation and personality. Realizing this, will enable you to comprehend what He is showing you through visions and dreams.

If God gives you a vision it will have purpose, direction, and ultimately a conclusion. It won't be anything "fairy-tale-ish" wherein each time you see it there is a different ending or several interpretations.

Remember, when God shows you something in the Spirit, He has a plan that you didn't plan, with an outcome that you couldn't possibly imagine.

Q. I am spirit-filled and attend church regularly. And I am happily married. But I have a stronghold, and hear demons talking to me, telling me to let them "in" and that they love me. They call my name and tell me that God does not love me and that they love me instead. I feel overwhelming surges throughout my body at times and whenever I begin to pray, to acknowledge and rebuke them, the urges get stronger and it's scary and so I'll stop and try again later.

I pray, and believe that maybe I should fast more. But when I begin a fast, my husband unknowingly buys tempting foods and brings it home. (My husband is supportive, but he has no clue as to the full extent of what I am going through) I then eat the food and fall out of the fast.

I am distracted, though I have been delivered from depression and suicidal thoughts, and anger. I recently got a word that God says, "I have heard your cry. You say, 'God I am falling under the weight of it. How long, Lord?' But God says, 'Not yet, Jesus is interceding for you.' God says to wait, it's not yet but it's coming."

Why does God want me to wait to be delivered from something that is tormenting me? What should I be learning through this? Please pray for this stronghold of lust to be destroyed once and for all.

A. In your email you stated: "Why does God want me to wait to be delivered from something that is tormenting me?" It is NEVER God's desire for his children to be tormented. He has no purpose for it nor does He need Satan's "help" to teach you a lesson. Torment is of the devil. And you should not listen to any person or entertain any spirit that would attempt to convince you otherwise. Understand and know that the devil is never going to stop "talking to your mind." He is a liar, a deceiver, and a defeated foe. The Bible declares, "There is no truth in him." (John 8:44) And as long as he can get you to listen to him, he's going to do that.

The Bible lets us know that pulling down strongholds and bringing ungodly thoughts into captivity occur through being obedient to Christ, in every area of our lives. There is no spirit or demonic influence or persuasion that will not loose your mind or emotions, if you commit to a consistent lifestyle of denial through fasting and prayer, combined with denouncing and rejecting the things that you ALLOW to distract you.

Listen, stop going back in forth with the devil having senseless conversations and rehashing the things of your past! And stop making excuses why you can't go on a serious fast. There is no type of food that your husband can bring home that is so tempting that it can stop you from fasting if you sincerely want to move out of this spiritual slump that you are in.

Starting right now you can go on to live a victorious life combating the devil in the spirit realm as never before. The choice is up to you. Girl, get it together! And let the Lord complete the awesome work that He has started in you and stop ALLOWING the devil to toy with your mind and your emotions. HE IS A LIAR! And you are more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour.

Q. Hi, firstly your website is very blessed. I read a few questions and answers and was inspired to ask you about one of my concerns. I am saved, for 6 years. I started dating my ex-boyfriend, of three years ago, again last year (2007) because I still had feelings for him. We broke up early this year (2008), because our relationship was not working and not pleasing God.

Somehow sexual desires came into the relationship. For the last few months of our relationship he really pressured me for sex. I loved him very much. In fact I was crazy about him, and wanted to make him happy, and pleased him in every way I could. I was so consumed by his love, and I lost track of the One person that we need to be consumed by.

I gave in and gave away my virginity to the man I thought I was gonna marry. We had sex a few times (about 3 times to be exact). It's been a couple of months now, and God has already done a lot of restoration in my life and thank God for that. Can I be considered as unpure? Am I still worthy of a good man, a man that loves God the way I do, for a husband?

A. The Bible declares that the Blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin; and, if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (Read I John 1:5-10 for scriptural reference) However, being forgiven of sexual sin doesn't mean that your "virginity" has been restored and that you can consider yourself "pure," at least not in the literal meaning of the word. Being restored means that you have been "spiritually purified" from that act of sin.

In your email you state that you were "so consumed" by your boyfriend's love. But the truth of the matter is fornication has absolutely nothing to do with love. Therefore, your "love" for him did not cause you to sin with him. It was lust. The spirit of lust is the driving force behind sexual sins, and when we have been consumed by lust the Word of God says, "Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." (II Corinthians 7:1)

As you mature spiritually in God, your love and reverence for Him will truly consume you. In turn, making Jesus first and foremost in your thoughts and in your heart will cause Him to open the spiritual eyes of a godly man and usher him in your direction.

It is my sincere prayer that you will be strengthened and perfected in your walk with Christ, realizing and fully understanding that husbands are not met through "dating." They are met through "denying" the flesh.

Q. La Veeta, I do so much want to read my Bible more than I do now. I seem to not understand a lot of what I read in the Bible, and I think it's the reason I don't read it on an everyday basis. Please advise a Bible for me as I truly want to get in the word and be able to read and understand. I love the Lord and want to walk closer spiritually and faithful with Him.

A. The King James Version of the Bible is my personal choice. Absolutely nothing ministers to my spirit more than it does. However, you may find a Revised Standard Version of the Bible or a New King James Version helpful. I also highly recommend the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. It is a tremendous Bible study tool.

Still, you will discover that a better understanding of the Word of God can only be developed over time, and it will not come solely through reading multiple Bibles. I've met people who have spent hundreds of dollars on biblical materials in an effort to become qualified and equipped Bible students. However, they did not spend quality time in God's presence through prayer, fasting, and worship and their Bible study time soon became boring and unfruitful once again.

Remember: A closer walk with Christ begins with a combination of lifestyle choices and changes that enable you to grasp revelation from the Word of God more readily. As a result, choosing to spend additional time in prayer, fasting, and worship will provide you with a Bible study that is greatly rewarding. May you find strength in His presence and power in His word always is my prayer for you in Jesus' Name.

Q. Hello La Veeta, first let me just say may God bless you and your ministry. I am a 38 year-old woman who is trying to live my life right. I joined church last year and I have been so happy every since, but there is something missing. I feel like I am empty inside and something is blocking me from God's word. I have prayed about this. But, can you please give me some advice on what it is I might be doing wrong?

A. In your email you state that you "joined church" last year, but you didn't say that you "joined Jesus." And what I mean by that is many times when an individual joins a Body of Believers and becomes an active member in a particular church they feel excited and motivated for a season. But after while they fall into a church routine or a religious pattern that becomes quite predictable. This eventually leaves them feeling empty and missing the original freshness and "high" of the new convert experience.

In order to keep that true and lasting freshness, and the spiritual euphoria that you desire in your relationship with Christ, you must have the infilling of the Holy Ghost as recorded in Acts 2:4. Revelation and a greater understanding of God's word will then increase in an awesome and supernatural way!

However, if you are not currently attending a church where they teach and preach the absolute necessity of having the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking in tongues as the Spirit of God gives the utterance, I strongly urge you to pray about finding a place of worship where your spiritual growth and development can be nurtured to the point where you will eventually become a spiritual giant in God.

Q. I am a 27 year-old wife and mother. I will have been married 5 years, next April, and I can truly say that I have had more bad times than good times with my husband. A lot has to do with his work schedule which keeps him away from home accept Friday and Saturday; and even in those days we do not always spend quality time. This past year, alone, we have not done anything productive or romantic as a couple besides two nights at a hotel.

About four months ago, he decided that he wanted to wear his wedding ring on the right hand and consider us separated. I accepted that. However, he still wants us to have sex and I still want to but feel that I can't handle having sex without our connection being as it should. I know the Bible states that we should not withhold our bodies from our mates, but is this still the case when one has called a separation? Please help me to understand.

A. First of all, it was very foolish of you to just "accept" that your husband wants to pretend that he is separated from you. How you value yourself and your marriage is important. Don't ever ACCEPT anything that doesn't compliment you as a woman of worth and respect.

Furthermore, wearing a wedding ring is not what makes two people happily married, nor is a missing wedding ring what causes people to become emotionally separated. Your husband suddenly changing what hand he wears his wedding band on does not change where he is spiritually or psychologically in your relationship--even when he is humping in between your legs.

A sexual release is not an emotional agreement. In other words, good sex will not bind a marriage together. The love-filled hearts of a man and woman who are following after God's divine will for their lives is what good and lasting marriages are built on. That and nothing less. Understand your marriage is under demonic attack; and this spirit of separation can only come out by fasting and prayer.

The Bible does say, "Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency." (I Corinthians 7:5 KJV)

So providing that you are both Christians that sincerely desire to be more than "married sex buddies," this would be a perfect season for you both to come before the Lord "naked" instead of coming before each other naked.

If you don't seek the Lord fervently in prayer now, problems that are more harmful, and will prove to be far more detrimental to your marriage, will manifest before long--and that's for certain. May the Lord strengthen and guide you both in His word and in His way is my prayer for you in Jesus' Name.

Q. Yesterday I felt lead to start from top to bottom in the house wiping walls, praying and worshipping, calling unclean spirits to flee in the Name of Jesus. I was wondering what is the correct way to pray over your house and get out any unclean spirits that may have entered through others, through the television, through music, etc. I have been doing it a certain way for years and I want to be sure that I'm doing it correctly.

A. In the traditional Pentecostal faith, the old church mothers taught the saints to go through a lot of "flips and changes" that did not prove to be effective when it came to casting unclean spirits out of their home. For example, physically washing walls or anointing the television, and the CD players, and the door knobs with blessed oil will not erase the presence of a demonic entrance, or cast out a demon that has set up residence in an individual's mind.

Once a spirit has entered a home it must be "sanctified and cleansed with the washing of water by the word." (Ephesians 5:26 KJV) In other words, the word of God is like a spiritual washing machine that cleanses and sanctifies your life as the Living Water, which is Jesus Christ, operates in you. The more word that you have the more power you have to cast out unclean spirits!

"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword..." (Hebrews 4:12 KJV) and it has the ability to wash and purify the mind, and to drive out any unclean spirit or any territorial spirit lurking about. Jesus said, "Behold I give unto you power--over all the power of the enemy: and NOTHING shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10:19 KJV) Use the power that God has given you in His word. And speak the word that God gives you to PRAY over your house! It will destroy the works of Satan every time.

Q. La Veeta, at the end of last year I was going through some things and I wrote my friend an email expressing my aggravation in her never returning my phone calls or emails. We use to work together and we got along really well. She's a woman of God and I'm a woman of God so I thought it was great.

She was the friend who read my manuscript for my new book and inspired me to finish it and get it done. As a matter of fact, I was so inspired by her that I put her in the acknowledgement pages of the book. Then she responded to my email and told me that she never liked me and that she never was my friend, and all I talked about was my stupid book. She also said that I was money hungry, selfish, and crazy--and that I wanted people to kiss my butt because I had wrote a book.

This email devastated me when I read it...and I just keep asking God how could I have missed the signs... I value friendship dearly; and I am a loyal friend to those who are in my circle. Being a pastor's wife ain't the easiest thing in the world, so I do look for friends in this thing because ministry can be very lonely. I was frustrated when I wrote her the email, but it was not intended to be mean. I wrote it to try to get a response from her, to talk to her because I hadn't heard from her.

One email from her messed me up spiritually for a minute because I thought we had a special friendship. She repeatedly called the book stupid and it was her who inspired me to finish it. So I asked God if I was that stupid or desperate for friends that I couldn't see with my spiritual eyes? She act like my book was a bestseller and that I was on Oprah living in a mansion high up on the hill.

So La Veeta could you please minister to me in this area so the next time I wont be so hurt by people.

A. In your email you state, "One email from her messed me up spiritually for a minute..." that's very dangerous to have a friendship that you feel is so special or precious that it "would mess you up" even for one minute spiritually! Girl, I need to beat you upside the head for that one. She ain't Jesus Jr.

Listen to me, and hear me good... Everybody pats you on the back when you're in the same boat. The second you step out...launch into the deep... and begin to do things that they never REALLY imagined that you would do, or could even accomplish, they begin to act distant and funny, and some even give you a permanent cold shoulder. Why? It's because of the spirit of jealously and envy.

Still with the aid of the Holy Ghost, you can continue to love this woman you call a friend and pray for her as much as you always have. It's obvious that the Enemy has turned her against you in an effort to lower your self-esteem and to make you doubt that writing your book was a God-idea in the first place.

However, you must remember as a woman of God and a pastor's wife, you owe it to you and to your spiritual development to surround yourself with people and "friends" who are anointed to pour into your life. In other words, those who are visionaries, and not just simply momentary "well-wishers," should be the only ones that you allow into your life emotionally.

Although on occasion you may still be "emotionally-bumped" by others, you will rarely be hurt by them. Foremost, stop second guessing everything that you do and acknowledge the Lord in all your ways. He will surely direct your path.

May you have continued success in promoting your novel and in all that you endeavor to do to buildup the Kingdom of God is my prayer for you in Jesus Name.

Q. Praise the Lord. I've been dealing with a situation... My sister suffered an aneurysm in the brain and it has been a press... and I'm wondering if this situation is calling me off my job. I also attend school. And I'm the mother of a five year old and also a minister. What do I do? My desire is to carry out HIS will.

A. I am a woman of faith. And everyday of my life I quote Luke 1:37, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." I literally believe that there is no situation or circumstance that God cannot provide total healing and deliverance from. Let me share a portion of my testimony... Almost 27 years ago I suffered a stroke on the left side of my brain. It left me partially blind in my left eye and without the ability to write or verbalize my thoughts clearly. The doctors did not have an answer for my condition that would yield favorable or positive results--but GOD did! And God has the answer for your sister.

An aneurysm is only a demonic attack of the Enemy to keep your sister bound and to keep you feeling guilty for not having the time or energy to solely provide for her as a caregiver.

Your first responsibility is to your child; and you have a right to go to school to better yourself. As a minister of the gospel, there is someone pulling and pleading for your attention on a daily basis. Therefore you should try to give your sister as much support as you possibly can without it altering your lifestyle permanently. Just because you do not devote your total existence to her every need at this crucial time in her life, does not mean that you don't love her and want what is best for her total recovery.

I highly recommend Jesus. Put her full recovery in the hands of the Lord, and seek out a caregiver to provide for her when you are unable to minister to her needs. The Lord loves you and he loves your sister. He will provide what you both need, and keep you in perfect peace in the process.

Q. How can a Christian woman really be saved and satisified, yet handle those strong feelings for sex? I've prayed for a mate, but nothing. It's been 12 years for me. It was suggested to me to get "toys" and take care of myself, but I don't think that is biblical. HELP!!!!!!

A. You're absolutely right. "Toys" are not biblical or godly. "Toys" are a sinful and demonic practice. Know that masturbation, fornication, adultery, and sexual fantasies are all a part of a satanic web of lust and perversion. It is one of the devil's many strongholds to keep you a slave to sin and denied the true blessing that God has in store for you.

The Bible says, "But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof." (Romans 13:14)

How? By crucifying your flesh. The Apostle Paul said, "I die daily" (I Corinthians 15:31) Every single day of your life you have to die daily. Or in other words, determine in your spirit that you are not going to put your flesh in a compromising position, in which the devil can entrap you, hold you hostage, and keep you bound! It's a daily grueling decision that gets easier as you walk by faith and not by sight.

You say that you've been waiting for a husband for 12 years. My entire ministry focuses on teaching women how to truly wait. I have made countless mistakes in life because I didn't wait on the leading of the Lord when I was a young woman. If I could live my life over again...I would wait 12 years, 15 years, 20 years, or however long that God deemed necessary for the perfecting, maturing, nurturing, and total fulfillment of my life.

I promise you, if you get in God's presence and ask Him, "Lord, what do I need to give up in order to crucify my flesh...in order to die daily." He will instruct you; He will lead you; and He will keep you from falling and present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. This is something you can do...you must do...your future depends on it. Trust God He will not fail you; and, He will not let you down.

Q. Where did you come up with the titles of your books? Did you pray about the titles? Did God give you these titles? I think you may have been asked this question before, but I have not seen it. Just curious. Thank you.

A. The word of God tells us in Mark 7:22-23 that lasciviousness is an evil thing that will defile you. Now, perhaps you have a full extensive vocabulary and a degree in English; however, the average person has never heard of the word lasciviousness. Therefore to entitle my book, "Lasciviousness Mentality" would have been confusing to most, and made many go reach for an unabridged dictionary.

For those who have an unabridged dictionary, and are inclined to research or break down words they know that the "definition" for lasciviousness is lustful, wanton, or lewd. The "mentality" and behavior patterns that come with the spirit of lasciviousness are that of a female dog.

The dictionary definition for a female dog is bitch. It is also the definition given for a malicious, unpleasant, selfish, lewd woman. And that is where my book title Bitch Mentality derived from.

Bitch Mentality is bits and pieces of my autobiography. So, obviously, if anybody knows what the life I lived should be called, I do. It was during a 40 day consecration that the Lord instructed me as to what I could discuss in the book and what I could not. And out of obedience I only covered certain material and subject matter in this particular book.

The I'll be Damned DVD is the companion Bible study to my book Bitch Mentality. The title is drawn from II Thessalonians 2:11-12 ". . . And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness."

Q. Once you find yourself losing faith and not sure of yourself or the love that you have to offer or the love that you are worthy of what do you do? When you feel as though even your Lord and Savior can't help you what do you do?

A. When you begin to lose faith, and we all have at some point in our lives, the first thing you have to do is examine yourself. In other words, ask yourself what in particular caused you to begin to lose your faith? Was it when God didn't answer a specific request the way you thought He should? Or was it when He allowed a door to remain closed while you watch a golden opportunity for advancement open for someone that you felt was less deserving of it than you?

Any number of situations can arise in your life that will cause you to "feel" that God isn't listening, that He doesn't care, or that He has turned His back on you. It is in that moment that you must remember that faith is not a feeling. Faith declares Luke 1:37, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." Regardless of how you feel, you must accept the fact that Jesus loves you and He knows all about whatever you're going through. Therefore, He will never make a wrong decision when it comes to you.

Spending quality time in His presence will enable you to experience the love that you've been missing. Spending time in His Word will build up your self-esteem and help you realize that you truly do have unlimited potential and resources in God that you haven't even began to tap into. Once you begin to do these things you'll start living and not merely existing in a web of deceit that has been spun by Satan himself.

The devil is a liar! That isn't going to ever change. He wants you to lose faith and even your very life. Don't give him another chance. Make up in your mind that you're going to do your part in developing a closer walk with Jesus.

The Bible declares, "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"

Jesus proved His love for you way back on Calvary when he died on the cross for your sins. Now it's up to you to walk in the newness of life through the power of the Holy Ghost in Acts 2:4. The Bible says that praying in the Holy Ghost will build up your faith. (Jude 20) So do it! You have a wonderful and bright future ahead of you girl. Don't allow anything or anybody to keep you from your God-ordained destiny.

Q. La Veeta, could you please explain to me the concept of "Fasting?"

A. The purpose for fasting is to crucify your flesh or in other words kill fleshly desires, break habits, and destroy the works of Satan's strongholds and influences that you have not previously been able to conquer and overcome on your own.

Fasting empowers you and enables you to live free from the demands that Satan places on your life. Fasting will teach you how to discipline yourself and how to submit to the total will of God.

There are different kinds of fasts that you can go on. It all depends on what you want God to do in your life. When I first began to fast, many years ago, I needed the Lord to TOTALLY CHANGE my life so I chose to always go on complete fasts, which consist of no food or water.

It is not an easy fast but it is the most effective way to fast. And without it I would not be the Woman of God that I am today. There are liquid fasts, and denial fasts, but again it all depends on what you want God to do in your life.

Q. Are all men suppose to praise God or just the people that have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior?

A. The Bible declares, "Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalm 150:6) So, any man [or woman] that has breath in their body owes God PRAISE. However, out of ignorance, many who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior don't render the praise that is due Him. Therefore, we should always pray for those who don't know the glorious blessing in blessing God with their praise. Share Scriptures on praise with them whenever possible, and lead by example. So go on and praise the Lord!! He's worthy right now! Hallelujah! Glory to God in the Highest!

Q. Every since I was young I've always had a passion for writing. To date, I have read many a book, but now I'm interested in possibly writing for a Christian publication in hopes that "my story" can encourage someonone else who may be in a similar situation. My question is where do I get started as far as writing manuscripts or just putting myself out there? I don't even know where to start.

A. Well, first of all, the dream of having your autobiography, novel, poems, stage play, movie script, or article published will never become a reality until you put it on paper. You've got to start writing, and writing, and writing some more--and then writing some more! Really and truly that is the FIRST step.

Secondly, you need to either find an agent to help you market your book, or seek out a publishing company through the Writer's Market. The Writer's Market is a thick book with a lot of helpful information in it that most potential authors find valuable when they're just getting on their feet. You can purchase one at Border's Bookstore or Barnes & Noble. Prayerfully, it won't take a long time before a major publishing company takes you under their wings and you become a big success!

Occasionally, for various reasons, publishing companies will feel that a particular piece of work is much too difficult or even impossible to market such as my book, Bitch Mentality. In that case, you'll receive one rejection letter after another. Some people are rejected for years and years before they finally find a company that their writing style is compatible with. Still there are those who simply don't have the time or patience that it takes to search high and low, so they self-publish their work. There are also books on the market that can help you with self-publishing, if you should decide to go that route.

Know that whether you decide to go with a publishing company or do your own thing through self-publishing, it will be rather expensive. And the more particular you are about what your book looks like the more you can expect to pay for everything! But you'll be so happy and proud of yourself when it's completed and you're holding "your baby" in your hands! Then providing you have thousands or even millions waiting in line to read your book, it won't take you long to become a bestselling author. You can do it girl--go for it!

Q. Why do I feel the way I feel? I have been divorce from my second marriage for about a year and some months. This man has hurt me; and yet I still feel for him. I believe in God and Jesus. I am one of those people that after I am done in a relationship I never return. But I made a big mistake and slept with him, and conversated with him, and now I am thinking of him. I told myself it is just the flesh that wants him. The sex was not that great even when we were married. I give myself excuses like, "Well, we have a child together." I know why I never return to a person that hurts me. So what is my excuse now?

A. I think that it is only natural that you're still on an emotional roller coaster. After all, this is the second time that you have experienced the mental turmoil and heartbreak of a failed marriage. Although you had sex with your ex-husband it was not about trying to fulfill a fleshy desire but a sorry attempt at trying to receive genuine love from him. And because "love" can't be found in between a person's legs you still feel a longing and an emptiness that is masquerading as warmth, affection, and a false sense of security.

This is one of many self-defeating behavior patterns. I wrote a book about it entitled Bitch Mentality. If you truly desire to break the chains, end the vicious cycle of defeat, and never live in Satan's doghouse again you will find Bitch Mentality a powerful tool of ministry that will produce healing and deliverance in your life. May God bless you and restore you is my prayer in Jesus Name.

Q. La Veeta, I love your site! It makes me want to hear what the Lord has given you! God has given me ministry through dance and I love to be used of God. I consider it a privilege and honor to bless the people around me. At the start of this ministry there was sooo much passion and drive in me, and now it comes and goes. And when it goes, I feel like I'm just surviving in the ministry and not pushing it forward or taking it to higher heights. I miss the constant drive and passion. I feel as though the Lord is testing my commitment or my heart. Now for the question: Do you experience the same struggle? What can I do to relight that fire that was once in me and to keep it from dying out?

A. The ministry of anointed dance can express a word of deliverance to a troubled soul and uplift a bowed down head, ushering them into the presence of God with liberty, joy, and a complete renewal of the spirit. However, oftentimes, when we are not operating on the level of anointing that God desires to see us flow in, we do not sense an unctioning of the Holy Ghost. Suddenly we are no longer motivated. We become bored or uninspired to pursue the "passion without vision."

What causes this? Many times traditional church settings hinder those of us who have been called into "creative evangelism." The fear or concern that your ministry is not valued or appreciated, or that the message that you are desperately trying to convey is not being received wholeheartedly, or that it is somehow being misinterpreted can cause you to quench the spirit. I Thessalonians 5:19 says, "Quench not the spirit." That word quench comes from a Greek word that means extinguish: to put out (a fire, light, etc.) put out the flame of (something burning or lighted) to put an end to.

Satan desires "to put an end to" the anointing that God has placed on your life. But, even now, I rebuke every spirit that would hinder you from going forth in faith and with the power of the Holy Ghost. Now, dance until burdens are destroyed; dance until bodies are healed; dance until mountains are moved in Jesus Name. Go forth with VISION! Go forth with PASSION!

Q. My 7th wedding anniversary is near and I will spend it without my wife. She feels we were not meant to be but I feel otherwise. Would God prophesy through a person to tell her this? Is this only on her own? Is God talking to her? It will be a year at the end of December since she left and I miss her and want her back so we can continue our ministry (many couples were saved by our faith walk). Our children are pulling away from her as well. I have asked God what I should do, and give up isn't what he has said to me. Any guidance you can give me?

A. Matthew 19:6 clearly states, "...What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." And that lying prophet had no right to tell your wife anything different than the Word of God! Divorce is not the divine will of God for any Christian marriage. I'm certain that only you and she know the dynamics that center around this break up. And only through fasting and prayer can this troubled family situation be rectified.

Brother, providing that you have been faithful in this marriage and you have loved, appreciated, and supported your wife emotionally, spiritually, and financially you have no reason to hang your head down. If you are a sanctified man of God lift your head up! Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might! Bind the works of the devil and plead the Blood of Jesus over your wife and your children and take authority in the spirit realm through the power of the Holy Ghost in Jesus Name. God will send your wife home if you fast and seek the face of God!

Q. Sister La Veeta, I've been a Christian for a long time. I realize that my timing isn't always God's timing. But right now I need direction--a true clear word from God, through His Son Jesus Christ, and the Mighty Power of the Holy Spirit!! I've been seeking God for a husband and this is where the silence has been!!

A. You stated in your email that you have been "seeking God for a husband" and that this is where the silence has been. The reason being is that according to the Scriptures you are out of order. What does the Bible say? Well, Proverbs 18:22 says, "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord." It does not say that a woman should seek the face of God for a husband, but it lets us know that a godly man will find his wife.

The Scripture clearly states that all the woman has to be is "a good thing" for her God-ordained husband to find her. Do you consider yourself a good thing? In other words, do you have the maturity and the makings of a godly wife. If so, you have need of patience. Rest in the Lord and wait to be found! I promise you that God will point a true man of God in your direction at His appointed time. God said your husband will find you!!

If godly men are not looking in your direction, it is a strong possibility that you have bitch mentality. After you've read my book Bitch Mentality you'll be able to readily identify your self-defeating behavior pattern.

Q. Why is it so hard to let go when you know there's nothing left in a relationship? I know I need to move on, but I'm afraid to start over again. Help me...

A. There are several different reasons why you might be finding it difficult to move on. If the relationship has ended in divorce, it's quite natural to feel as though you've run into a brick wall that has suddenly come crashing down on top of your world. Time heals all wounds, but it doesn't necessarily erase every scar. And subconsciously you might not be ready to face the "scars" that come with divorce and makes it extremely hard to move on.

However, if you're still married and the relationship has moved from bad to worst, yet you're still holding on to what seems to be nothing more than hopes and dreams of what a marriage can and should be, God has given you a heart of compassion for your husband and your desire to be in the divine will of God has now superseded your own will, which is why you can't walk away from this relationship. And that's not a bad thing, it's just a trust God to make sense out of it thing! This will come through patience and much prayer.

But, if none of the above is the case, it simply means that you have bitch mentality. And the relationship has ended as a result of a consistent pattern of self-defeating behaviors. Until you break the vicious cycle, you may move from one "involvement" to the next but it will still end up a broken relationship. To find out how you can develop healthy relationships and never be heartbroken again read my book, Bitch Mentality and be transformed by the renewing of your mind, and truly start over again.

Q. I am encouraged by your ministry Sister Ivory. I believe that as Scripture tells us, through by revelation of the Holy Spirit, that God is doing a new thing; and it certainly has come forth (Isaiah 43:19). I thank God that He is using this ministry for a time such as this.

I am a student who is preparing myself for ministry; and I also serve as a leader in church as a lay minister. I have been experiencing some real spiritual warfare and I feel like I am at a standstill. What I mean is that I am so physically tired and I find it so hard to concentrate on anything for too long. I feel like something is happening to me and I can't put it into words.

I have prayed, fasted, and I am waiting to hear from the Lord concerning some of these issues. I find myself just wanting to sleep; and I also find that I enjoy being to myself. I hope you can share some insight on spiritual standstill and warfare. In the meantime, may God continue to bless you according to his riches in glory.

A. You stated in your email that you're "physically" tired. Depending on your age, if you're in your mid-forties or older, you could be exhausted because you haven't been getting the proper amount of sleep and rest at night, also you could be perimenopausal which causes hormonal imbalances that have physical effects on the body and mind.

However, if you're a younger woman in your twenties or thirties, that has children, a full-time job, a husband, active in your church and community, or if you are a caregiver for the elderly or the disabled, these things could be placing extra demands on you physically, as well as making it quite difficult for you to concentrate on much of anything for a long period of time.

In addition, fasting and spiritual warfare is physically draining, and especially so if you are overweight or ordinarily sluggish. Be sure to always get the mind of God concerning a fast. In other words, know what type of fast He wants you to go on and how many hours, days, weeks, or months that He's requiring for that particular fast.

If none of the above fits your lifestyle description, then you're physically tired and lacking the ability to fully concentrate because you're operating outside of your God-given anointing. And as a result, you've become what I call "Public Transportation." You can download this word by clicking on the microphone under the "Radical Word" link. Believe me, I was physically tired, mentally exhausted, and didn't feel like I was accomplishing anything of significance until I stopped being "Public Transportation."

Remember, when you reach a spiritual standstill you are either not being Spirit-led in that season of your life; you are not following the specific instructions that God has given you in order to obtain the revelation, interpretation, or elevation in the spirit that you are seeking Him for; or you are in a spiritual traffic jam. Read "Another Traffic Jam!?" by clicking on the "Radical Word" link. May God bless you, keep you in the center of His divine will, and strengthen you both naturally and spiritually each step of the way.

Q. I have a fiancé in jail and we what to get marry. So, I would like to know is there anything wrong with jailhouse marriage? I am a Sister in Christ that wants my Sisters in Christ to give me the best advice I need.

A. If you've ever visited my website before you know that I don't sugarcoat truth, and I don't water it down. I keep it "radically" real at all times. And for that reason I must tell you the raw truth. Only bitch mentality would make you want to even consider marrying a man that is in jail. You'll make mistakes in life, it's inevitable. But don't make this mistake. Let him go!

It's time for you to grow up naturally and spiritually. If you don't, you'll regret it and your life will spiral down to nothing short of a shameful mess. The Lord has a husband for you, but he isn't in jail and he never will be. You can heed sound advice or suffer the consequences. The choice is yours.

I've written a book entitled Bitch Mentality, a partial autobiography of my life unveiling the dangers of lust and self-defeating behavior patterns. Read it, if you want to get your head on straight and truly have a wonderful God-ordained life!

Q. I am interested in starting a website for my ministry. What do you recommend is the best way to get started?

A. This may sound like a simple answer; but it's an honest answer: Pray. After you have the mind of God concerning HIS purpose for your ministry, you'll know the people that you have been assigned to and the specific reason why you were chosen for that particular God-ordained ministry. Remember ministry is not "ministry" unless you're literally ministering to someone.

In order to have a successful website ministry, you'll have to know the audience that you are targeting and what their needs are. Again, that will be accomplished by a perfect combination of pray and purpose working in harmony. If you acknowledge the Lord in all your ways He will surely direct your path and order your footsteps. God bless!

Q. Hi La Veeta, during this spiritual transformation that I'm going through now, I had really begun to "feel" closer to God than I ever have in my life... But all of a sudden, He seems to have pulled away from me again... Could this be true? I've been rushing home, to seek Him everyday. I put Him before everyone and everything... seeking Him with all that I have, but for some reason, it seems as if He doesn't notice. It seems as if He has folded His arms and turned His face to the other direction. Can this be true?

A. As you grow in God very few things that you will experience will have anything to do with what you feel. The Holy Ghost is a Comforter, but there are times that we don’t want God to comfort us, we really want God to pamper us. And there is a distinct difference.

When we "feel" that God is "pulling away" He’s actually drawing us to Him. It’s during those seasons that we must stand on His word alone. Not on what we see, think, or feel. Because situations and circumstances will forever change the way we view things, comprehend things, or relate to things. But Hebrews 13:8 declares that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever.

He will never change! And His undying love for you will never change. Our "feelings" may change but He never changes. So enter into His presence and receive His joy, peace, love and anointing. He’s waiting for you.

Q. How do I make a move? I am 34 years old, with a beautiful 15 year old daughter that has special needs. I have been in a relationship with her father for 15 years. We do live together. I forgot to tell you that he is 49 years old--works off and on when he wants to. I go to church sometimes; I pray all the time. I am hurting and in pain most of the time. How do I move out of this situation? I know that the LORD is not pleased with me right now: I am a backslider.

A. For 15 years you haven't been in a "relationship" you've been in SIN. A true relationship would have produced a lasting marriage, not you "shackin' up" with a 49 year old boy who works when he wants to. Yes, you're a backslider, but in Jeremiah 3:14 God said that He is married to the backslider. And He doesn't want you to slide back into His arms, He wants you to run back into His arms before it's everlasting too late.

Hell is too hot and too long girl to be wasting time playing stupid games on the devil's playground.

Look at your daughter... You say that she has special needs? Well, God is a healer and a deliverer from every satanic attack that has come against your daughter physically, mentally, and spiritually. She needs to be in a Holy Ghost filled church where the power of God can begin to move mightily in her life. I guarantee you, she will never have another "special need" if you get her in the presence of the Almighty God.

In this season of your life, let your love for your daughter be your motivating factor for moving on. Do you want her to grow up and be a woman of God who acknowledges the Lord in all of her ways so that He can direct her path? Or do you want her to have bitch mentality, and end up in one no good relationship after another, because she never learned her true worth and divine purpose in life?

The Spirit of the Lord is speaking to you even now. And God is saying, "Trust Me with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding." Your own understanding will only lead to more life-altering mistakes. But you have a choice at this very moment to make a life-changing decision and begin walking in your God-appointed destiny. You can move on from this ungodly hook-up, and be truly blessed beyond what you ever dreamed or imagined, or you can stay on the devil's playground with "old boy" and buy yourself a one way ticket to hell.

Q. La Veeta I was impressed with a recent word you sent to my sister about the truths in her life...and was inclined to ask a question for myself and my current situation...I have recently left my husband of 14 years for the 3rd time. I am a Holy Ghost-filled, fire baptized, born-again Believer. I have done all I can according to the Word. Also, I have received several prophesies saying that I was married to the wrong man and the longer I stay I was shortening my life: a death sentence.

In the last year, I have been admitted to a mental institute from a breakdown, my 17 year old son is acting like a fool, doing drugs, going to jail--and whatever else you can imagine. And to top it all off, I lost my job and my car.

I trust God, and made the step to totally trust Him and moved again. It seems like I am at the bottom of the sea and not even a scavenger will come by to see about me. Did I make the right move? Can you give a sister some of your strong Radical advice?

A. Think about it, do the people who have supposedly "prophesied" about your marriage have a husband or a wife that they have been married to for OVER 14 years? Has either of these couples ever offered to fast and pray with you about your marriage? Have they ever bought you a card to encourage you or some flowers to brighten your day when you felt defeated and trapped under the weight of a troubled marriage? Have they ever sat down with you and your husband and shared helpful advice on how to build a strong marriage?

I'm not under the impression that these "prophets" really know you or your husband. They don't know what God wants to do in your life or in your husband's life. Nobody KNOWS that but God! Your husband is under demonic oppression and he doesn't know how to break free. That's why he acts a fool.

Meanwhile, you've allowed the Adversary to toy with your mind and emotions, and have entertained lying spirits that landed you in a mental institution--which is Satan's house! Then you began taking prescription medications for bipolar depression or whatever other medical terminology that unsaved doctors give to people that they don't have the anointing and spiritual authority to help. They don't realize that the powers of Hell cannot be driven out by popping a pill or psychological evalutations. The Bible declares that some things do not come out except by fasting and prayer.

Understand, however, that it is certainly not God's will that you be tortured by your husband, and some situations might require that you separate long enough for God to give direction. For example is your husband beating you, tying you up and holding a knife to your throat or a gun to your head? If so, your life is definitely in danger and that is not God's will that you be physically abused. However, if he isn't attacking you physically but only emotionally, then that is something that you have been given the power to overcome through the Holy Ghost.

Has your husband ever told you that you couldn't pray, fast, or get in God's presence? No. Then what's stopping you from taking authority over the devil in every area of your life. I didn't say get mad about it, worry about it, argue about it, or cry about it. I said take authority over everything that Satan is using to destroy your family.

Your son has a call on his life. When he sees a changed momma he will become a changed son. He needs to feed off of your energy, enthusiasm, and faith in God during this stage of his life. He's hurting and he feels so misunderstood, unloved, and alone. There's a lot of fear, insecurity, and self-hatred going on inside of him.

Girl, grab that boy and hug him! That's your baby! You've got to begin to prophesy in his life that he will be a holy man of God used for God's glory in these last and evil days! To God be the glory!

If you're truly trusting God don't make another move in any area of your life, not even in the area of employment or getting a car, until you fast and pray about it. It's time to break the vicious cycle of defeat. In my book, Bitch Mentality, there are several chapters on how to forgive and become victorious in a marriage that is under severe satanic attack. In those pages I tell you how I did it and how you can do it too.

Defeat is not an option. Do you hear what I'm saying? Don't accept defeat in any area of your life ever again! I mean that. Don't let NO DEVIL in hell call the shots! You put the devil under your feet and you castrate him in the spirit realm in Jesus Name! And that's all there is to that!

Q. I have lived my life by doing what is right. Yet, I continue to be abused, disrespected, and used by men and friends alike. I watch people commit sins and then achieve happiness. I am treating people right, taking care of my child, doing whatever needs to be done in my life as a whole. No, I am not perfect, but why do those who use me as a walking mat achieve so much and my season has not arrived? What is wrong with me? It must be something wrong with me.

A. There is nothing "wrong" with you. Based on the fact that you realize you are being abused and disrespected indicates that you're intelligent but ignorant of Satan's devices. A lifestyle of self-defeating behavior patterns is what has caused you to be the "Welcome" mat for abuse and mistreatment from those whom you choose to associate with and refer to as friends. But in actuality they are pawns that the devil has placed on the road map of your life to hamper your success, and to hinder you from reaching your unlimited potential in God. Understand, where your destiny lies is where you will find total happiness, which will be obtained through personal achievement and the favor of God.

I don't care how prosperous and happy the wicked may appear. The Bible says, "Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it." (Psalm 37:34) You'll see and eventually come to know that things aren't always as grand and great as people pretend that it is. Mostly everything that looks real in the life of a sinner is only an illusion set up by the devil. So girl get your eyes off of folk's stuff and things--and keep your eyes on JESUS!

You say that you've also been continuously abused and disrespected by the men you've been involved with. Well, this will not stop until you have been delivered from bitch mentality. The devil has targeted you for being dissed and dogged by every man you meet. But answers that produce total deliverance and emotional healing are in my book Bitch Mentality.

God has so many wonderful blessings in store for you in the days and months ahead, if you embrace truth and use wisdom in every area of your life. God bless you.

Q. Does God pick our mates or do we have the right to use the wisdom that He has given us to choose our own?

A. Although God does orchestrate the "hook-up" of couples that He knows will be well-suited for each other, He doesn't necessarily "handpick" each person's spouse. Christians who are Spirit-led follow the path that God has laid before them and they in turn meet a "select group" of people chosen by God, and He allows His people to choose from that selection--and from that selection only. A "selected" man of God, one who knows the voice of God, approaches a "selected" woman of God, one who also knows the voice of God, and she either says yes or no to his proposal.

In either case, the deciding factor will be based on knowing the voice of God. Bottom line: Any person who ends up with a spouse with whom they are not naturally and spiritually compatible with was simply not Spirit-led. And in that case they probably need to read my book Bitch Mentality for further instructions on how to survive a marriage that has gone haywire and still remain in the divine will of God.

Q. I have been praying and seeking God about obtaining employment in another city. I have recently completed my Ph.D. in Education Administration and would like to utilize the degree. I currently work as a guidance counselor and I love my work because of my love for working with children. I would like to work in administration, but continuing to work as a guidance counselor is also an option.

I have submitted numerous applications, gone on several interviews, and I know that I am qualified for the positions I have been seeking. Yet it seems no doors are opening. Sometimes I feel God does not want me to make a move, but I feel within my spirit it is time for me to move on from the present school I am employed. I get discouraged sometimes about this yet I still try to hold on to God's word and His promises. What do I do in the meantime?

A. In the meantime you simply wait. There has never been a door or a window of opportunity that God couldn't open. Spiritual purpose, divine placement, and God's ultimate plan for your future is always what He takes into consideration when He chooses to move or send His children anywhere. So rest in the Lord and wait patiently. In due season, He will give you instruction and clarity. And you will know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are indeed in His divine will. Truly, waiting on the timing of God ALWAYS has great rewards!

Q. La Veeta...this is my first time at your website and it has been more uplifting than I have seen in a long time. I have a question and concern...I have a male friend that has been married for 18 years to a woman he does not love. Our friendship turned into a relationship full of love, communication and growth. He has not kept this secret from his wife or family.

My concern is he has it in his mind that he can't leave this dead relationship with his wife because of his teenage boys. He believes he needs to be there for them until they graduate from high school(freshman/senior). He has not asked me to stay; and in fact he tells me he would understand if I chose to move on.

In my heart, I know this relationship can be great and I have asked God to help in moving in the right direction. I have often heard if something is meant to be it will be. Do I let the relationship go and see what happens or stand my ground and support him through this until the end?

A. Girl I need to come down there and beat you in the head with ten shoes! You need to run from this mess like your hair is on fire! This situation has bitch mentality super-glued to it! If this dog can't be faithful to a woman that has risked her life giving birth to his sons, and who has been putting up with all his other mess and imperfections for 18 years how do you imagine that he could, or ever would, possibly be faithful to you?

This man is a bold-faced liar. If he really felt like he was in a dead-end marriage, a wild pack of gorillas couldn't hold him down. He would simply divorce his wife and move on. Children, money, sickness--nothing can keep a person in a relationship when they "honestly and truly" want to be out of it! So needing to be there for his children is just an excuse that has been used by a many no-good niggah. It's a lie. You hear me? A lie.

The truth of the matter is, he knows that you can be replaced, without question, but the "Mrs." she can't be replaced and neither can the home and family that she has prepared and kept for him. Yeah, he's in lust with you...for now. But he definitely is NOT in love with you; and he NEVER will be. If you don't leave him alone he's going to prove that to you--and you can take that to the bank!

This sorry adulterous affair between you two was never meant to be. Therefore God is never going to bless it, whether the man gets a divorce or not. Disaster is in your future if you don't come out of sin, and you can take that as a prophetic word.

Q. I have been married for 12 years now, and for about 8 of those years I have been miserable. I feel I have tried everything I could to make our marriage work, including offering to go to marriage counseling. But my husband won't go. We have a major communication problem that really started since we were together. My question is how much is enough? Will I be forgiven by God if I divorce?

A. II Corinthians 6:14 says, "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers." Oftentimes, when people read that Scripture they think that it means to "only marry a Christian." They never consider the fact that two Believers can be married, and both worship God as Lord of their life, and yet the two can still be TOTALLY unequally yoked, naturally and emotionally.

Now once a person has made that life-altering decision, God doesn't simply slap you on the hand and say, "Shame on you! Now, go on and get yo' self out of this thang!"

Why? Because He realizes that it was you that got yourself in this predicament in the first place. So you're definitely not qualified to get yourself out of it in a way that would be pleasing in His sight.

Each situation and circumstance is different. God doesn't expect a person who is being abused physically to stay in a life-threatening marriage. However, if this is a matter of "the war of words" He's expecting you to do what He says, "Study to be quiet." (I Thessalonians 4:11)

Let me take you to school right here... Study means to "apply one's mind purposefully to the acquisition of knowledge or understanding of a subject."

The subject is marriage and the problem is a tremendous lack of communication between you and your husband. And being that you don't have the knowledge or the understanding of how to fix this problem, God is saying, "If you are willing to study your husband, I will teach you how to communicate with him, and in turn you will learn how to live in peace and in harmony with him."

You probably are thinking, "Shoot, I been tryin' to talk to him for years!" Well stop talking. "Study to be quiet" and God will word your mouth and give you genuine peace through the learning process. Many days your God-given "assignment" will seem hard as hell, but God will give you the grace if you sincerely want to remain in His divine will. Getting a divorce because you two can't communicate is not grounds for divorce, at least not according to the Bible it isn't.

Matthew 5:32 is the only scriptural reason that Jesus gives for divorce. However, even then, you can only know if that is God's divine will and purpose for your marriage, if you seek Him through fasting and prayer.

Remember God forgives us for our mistakes, but He frowns on disobedience and there are ALWAYS immeasurable consequences that come with disobeying His written and spoken word. It is my prayer that you will obey His voice and obey His word...

Q. Should we tithe or give from our heart?

A. If you asked most Christians if they steal, cheat, or rob they would answer you with a resounding "No, I'm saved! I don't steal, cheat, or rob anybody!" But God said, "Yet ye have robbed me." But ye say, "Wherein have we robbed thee?" The answer: In tithes and offerings. (Malachi 3:8)

Malachi 3:9-10 says, "Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me...Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse...and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there will not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts."

In other words, there is a guaranteed increase, protection, and provision that automatically comes with giving tithes and offerings. However the scripture declares that you will be cursed--broke, struggling, constantly without, in a permanent state of lack and impoverishment if you are not obedient to the divine instructions of giving tithes and offerings. So we should certainly give a love offering from our heart, but only after we have given a tenth of our earnings to the house of God.