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CONTENTS
Page 3: Editors Welcome Page 4 - 5: Why I Live By Faith By Caitlin Nunez Page 6: Melisa Dundas Artwork Page 7: My Testimony Page 8 - 9: 5 Minutes With Florence Page 10 - 11: Living By Faith With Frances Mensah Page 12 - 13: Alex Pemberton Photography Page 14 - 15: How I Got Here With Candice Hayden Page 16 - 17: Monthly Word Page 18 - 19: Poet’s Corner Page 20 - 21: Ashliegh Barnett - God Knows My Heart Page 22 - 23: Who is Marxman? Page 24 - 25: Eloise and Young Queens Page 26 - 27: Lemme Break This Down For Y’all Page 28 - 29: Jaquinda Jackson Page 30 - 31: Pursue Your Passion Page 32 - 33: Minister Joel Fad Page 34: Poets Corner Page 35 - 40: Advertisements Page 41 - 44: Events
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EDITORS WELCOME
have faith and do not
down on you because
doubt, not only can
you are young, but set
you do what was done
an
We have walked into a New
to the fig tree, but also
believers
Year; although it may seem
you can say to this
in conduct, in love, in
like we celebrated the New
mountain, ‘Go, throw
faith and in purity.”
Year ages ago. A new year,
yourself into the sea,’
a new beginning. Some of us
and it will be done.”
have even giving something up for lent, some of us celebrated Valentine’s Day with our loved ones, some of us have given ourselves a New Year’s resolution. So as you can see, there has been change all around us, but how are we living? How is our relationship with God? Are we growing daily? Are we seeking him earnestly? This is our first issue for the year and we are looking at Living By Faith. Some of us struggled in 2015 because of our faith. We had too little faith, which at times hindered us from reaching our potential, best ability and ultimately, our goal. In the New Testament, Jesus lived by faith and encouraged his disciples to do likewise and preached the Good News. He emphasised on the fact that without faith, very little can be achieved. Mathew 21:21 states “Truly I tell you, if you
example
for
in
the
speech,
If you are new to this Christian walk and want
Jesus healed and delivered
to know how to get by on
so many people, because
a daily basis, you have to
He had faith. His faith was
remember that you need to
exercised everywhere He
live by faith. Believe in the
went and was able to defeat
God that we serve and know
the enemy because He held
that all things are possible,
on to the promises of God.
as He strengthens you.
That’s what we must do in order to see God’s glory! We are told that all we need is
Forever knowing that He is God
faith as small as a mustard
Acknowledging your own
seed in order to complete all
strength and ability
tasks and achieve the things aspire to attaining. So young people, we have the ability to explore new
Implementing belief in God Teach
others
the
Good
News
things and aim to reach
Honour
higher levels. We must not
knowing that He will never
be dissuaded by fear and
fail us
doubt. Time is on our side, so knowing that we are
God’s
word,
God Bless
young, at times we have to take risks; at times we have to try new things and not be static; but what is essential is in order to reach those goals, we must have FAITH. 1 Timothy 4:12 states – “Don’t let anyone look
David Wurie Editor
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Caitlin Nunez
A bit about herself: Caitlin is a 17 year old student who is currently studying for her A-levels. Despite her age she is also the founder and a key member for Kingdom Ambassadors; a fellowship group set up to spread the Good News and to also elevate young people in their walk with Christ. She came to Christ just over a year ago and it stemmed from a really bad break-up, so it enabled her to spend more time with God and get over the feeling of brokenness. She describes her relationship with Christ, one with 4
real intimacy as her closeness with Him has really blossomed.
Why I Live By Faith ? “From that place of brokenness, God literally renewed my mind towards so many areas of my life; from my singleness journey, to the way I interact with unbelievers, that there are so many things that have been impacted from just that one single situation.”
faith, even though your loved ones might be unsaved, you just have to be a light wherever you go; it might mean you must be a light in your household, just like in Caitlin’s situation. Kingdom Ambassadors
“I am developing my walk as well.” Caitlin’s advice on young people or Christians as a whole, who have experienced bad relationships and its aftermath: “I would say the main thing is to guard your heart. In a sense from guard your heart from the other person so that you don’t put yourself in a position of vulnerability and make sure there are boundaries between yourself and the person you had that relationship with.” Caitlin believes that when you are seen as a role model to young people you have to be relatable and show compassion. That same compassion Christ shows to us, we must try and emulate that with our young people who look up to us. You have to examine yourself because our ministry and service shouldn’t become an overflow and take over from our own study time with God. We have to be true to Him as he is always true to us. “When you are serving God you have to make sure you are obedient, not just in leadership but as sons and daughters of God.” One of the main challenges growing up as a Christian is staying bold around non-believers. You have to be strong enough, bold enough and courageous enough to stand by his word and live by
A youth ministry started from Caitlin’s blogging. It’s a platform to share the Good News and to encourage individuals not to compromise their faith. Heaven rejoices when one person gets saved, so through social media Caitlin knew that she could reach so many seeing as the world is our oyster. It sets the foundation of introducing topics and issues that the everyday Christian might not want to talk about. This allows believers and non-believers to really get to know the word and it portrays Caitlin as a relatable leader. Faithfulness “Full submission under the will of God. Because a lot of time we say we have faith, especially in ministry you say it but not necessarily believe, but the whole point in living by faith is knowing how to hear God and know when he is calling us. You have to be obedient and dropping what you feel you can do and submit under the will of God. Caitlin is looking to start her own YouTube channel as she looks to spread her ministry, so that other people can feel engaged and also participate in her video content. Ultimately, she wants to have a Kingdom Ambassadors conference, so make sure you look out for that, as anything is possible through Christ who strengthens us.
Tell us Tell us something about yourself that nobody else knows? “I used to be an air cadet for the Royal Airforce.”
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I call this piece ‘KEEP YOUR EYES FIXED ON THE CROSS’. I believe this drawing really fits this issue, because for me personally living by faith is a state of mind/ a way of living. I also believe that If you want to walk in faith you have to keep your eyes fixed on the cross, because in this life difficult and doubtful moments will appear. How you react to these moments will show how deep your faith is grounded on the Rock Jesus Christ. I really want to encourage you all to pursue a faith-based life, because it’s your faith that will help you to become the best version you can be. 6
Blessings,
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MYTestimony
To me, living by faith is a statement of the trust a person has in God and the control He has over their life. As I’ve entered into my final term of my final year at university, the idea of living by faith has been especially relevant to me. I truly believe that my faith in God will help me as I push through this particular season in my life; God has shown me in the past that faith in Him can only elevate me and take me to higher heights so, at this crucial time I know that He will not fail me! When I started the term, I had an overwhelming sense of peace and joy and this has not wavered, so I pray that God will continue to guide me, increase my faith and use me to bring glory to His name.
Melissa Garrick
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Florence, aged 26 is a young minister who has been leading the youth at her church, SPAC for three years. The South East Londoner, has been working with other brothers and sisters in Christ to better the lives of the youths empower them. Florence who gave her life to Christ in 2009 and has been saved for six years now. When asked about her relationship with God she said: “Its been a really interesting journey, the change that’s happened gradually has had a great impact on me. I love Him and I see life very differently now, I’ve matured.” When Florence first started at SPAC she said she was so hungry to serve God. “I have always had the heart for serving, even if it’s without a title.” In August 2015 she was ordained as a minister. She said: “I love it, it’s great being a minister I enjoy diving into the word of God and sharing it with others. I also love being able to be there for other people.” As a mentor to young women what qualities do you believe a mentor needs to have? A mentor needs to be a good listener; they need to be humble as it takes a lot to be a mentor as people will step on your toes. You also need to be patient. You need to able to see yourself as nothing so you don’t get offended by what others may do to you. You have to accept people for who they are and be able to encourage them to change. Three Keys to Being a Mentor - - -
Lead by example Have integrity Be relatable
Advice to a young person searching to get into their ministry? Find a place to fellowship, before you start your own ministry you need to learn how to serve under one. Through this your gifts will be made known to you. Find someone to follow and learn from before you go out on your own. Service is very important for someone who wants to go into ministry. How did your foundation Women Within come about? My foundation came about almost 6 years ago, when my dad passed away it made me revaluate my life. One-day God gave me a vision of me ministering to thousands of women. I was also writing a lot at the time. The name of the foundation Women Within was given to me directly from God. It all about the hidden treasures inside of us that need to be birthed out. “There’s a key thing that God has placed in you that you’re supposed to give back to the world. Women of this generation need to rise up.”
5 minutes with Florence House fellowship Florence started a house fellowship around five years ago. One day she decided to start a gathering at her house for people to come together share the word, worship, pray and share food, around thirty young people come regularly. “It’s good for me to see the growth in some people, I get them to do words of exaltation to bring them out of the shell. I don’t want them to come and listen to me all the time, I want to make sure that they are taking something in and are reading their word also.” “So many testimonies have come from the fellowship and I just thank God for that.” Why is it so important for young people to read their word? When you’re young you’re going through many changes in life, trying to find yourself and build the right foundation. There’s no better way to do this but by reading the Word. At a young age your mind is still fresh and open you’re still able to get things right rather than later in life after you’ve made all your mistakes. Reading the Word will help you to better yourself and be in a better position than your parent and family may be. Where do you see God taking you next? I believe God is going to connect me with different people in different ministries and use me to help them to build new ministries. Random fact? Florence was brought up in a Muslim household. Her parents were Muslims but they never forced the religion on to her.
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LIVING BY FAITH
When times are tough, our faith keeps us going, says Frances Mensah Williams “Life is difficult. This is a great truth, one of the greatest truths.” So starts M. Scott Peck’s book ‘The
Road Less Traveled’, and I doubt that there is anyone who could disagree. Even the wealthiest among us, whom we imagine must have much easier lives than our own, are not immune from tragedy, sickness and death. Material wealth will never compensate the widow who has lost her beloved husband or the celebrity whose child has taken his life. At some point must come the realisation, even to the richest, that fame and money do not act as a shield from the darker side of life, nor protect from the despair of loss and the fear of failure. Indeed, I’ve coached many financially successful people who still harbour a deeply hidden belief that they will eventually be ‘found out’ and that people will one day realise that they are not as smart or as confident as they appear to observers. So, if we all agree that life is difficult, how does this help us? For Scott Peck, the very act of acknowledging that life is difficult renders it less fearful. He says: “Once we truly know that life is difficult - once we truly understand and accept it - then life is no longer difficult. Because once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters.”
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There is truth to the idea that owning up to something, naming it and admitting it, often helps to loosen the hold that it has on us. But, as Christians, there is something else, something far more reassuring about the understanding that life is difficult. Our faith as Christians gives us the grace to know that however difficult life gets, we are never left alone. That can sometimes be hard to remember when we are feeling torn by grief at the passing of a loved one, or when we’ve lost our job or seen our relationship end. In that immediate moment of grief, it is hard to remember that we are not alone. In those dark moments when we feel isolated in our pain and see no end to our suffering, to believe that we have not been abandoned by God can be a challenge like no other. But just as Paul tells us not to “sorrow as others who have no hope”, it is precisely at those times when we are at our lowest, that faith will bring us back from the darkness into the light. As Christians, we know that we are the children of a God who is always faithful, whose word never fails, and who tells us that although life is difficult, He will never leave us nor give us what he knows we cannot bear. Living by our faith as Christians, to me, does not mean that we will not recognise and suffer the difficulties of life. Indeed, next week, I will be attending a fourth funeral service in as many months; paying tribute once again to another wonderful human being who has been taken from us far too soon. It would be logical to believe that nothing good can be found in these situations and yet, in witnessing the outpouring of love, gratitude and respect that have accompanied the funerals of all those who have passed, I received the blessings of hope, of patience, and of trust.
God calls on us to live our lives fully, irrespective of the difficulties of life. ‘I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10 NKJV). God wants us to live well,
despite the difficulties of life, and to live by faith that these obstacles are a means to test our commitment to Him and our belief in His Word. When bad things happen, it’s tempting to think that there is no good reason. But I believe that we need to see difficulties as our stress test. Imagine you were going bungee jumping. Just as you would test the ropes first to make sure that they can bear your weight before you launch yourself into the air, so too do the difficulties that we are guaranteed to encounter in our lives become the stress tests for our faith. While witnessing the grief that has followed the loss of these four beloved people is sad and painful, it is also a reminder to live life to the full; to enjoy the gift of the present. Life is not meant to be easy; hardships are not exceptional - indeed they are the very essence of life. But as we experience our individual stress tests, we should remember two things. Firstly, that we are being honed; shaped by the fire of our challenges to be stronger and to learn from those challenges. Secondly, that in all things we should have faith in our God and His plan for us, knowing that He loves us, guides us, stands with us through all our difficulties, rewards our faith with His faithfulness, and offers us abundant life.
Frances Mensah Williams is the author of the novel ‘From Pasta to Pigfoot’ http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pasta-Pigfoot-Frances-Mensah-Williams/ dp/1909762202 and the books ‘I Want to Work in… Africa: How to Move Your Career to the World’s Most Exciting Continent’ (www.IWanttoWorkinAfrica.com) and ‘Everyday Heroes – Learning from the Careers of Successful Black Professionals’ (www.everyday-heroes.co.uk)
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Š Alex Pemberton
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Š Alex Pemberton
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HOW I GOT HERE
I
CANDICE HAYDEN
always knew that I wanted to work in the media industry, but I remember being uncertain about the path to get there. Do I go to university, find an apprenticeship or even take a year off education so I can figure everything out? Indecisiveness got the best of me and felt like time was ticking after I left Sixth Form. So I fell into the traditional trap of attending various university open evenings without really assessing my other options.
D A
espite the time invested in travelling around the UK to different universities, I eventually decided that I wanted to take a gap year. Luckily I also had a part time retail job where I could readily increase my hours and I did exactly that. At least I could save up some money to make student living easier if I choose higher education. Many people disagreed with my choice however I had faith that I’d find the right path. And I told myself that I was never going to lose sight of my goal- regardless of a year’s break! fter a few months of working in retail, I received an email from my A-level Media Studies teacher about an apprenticeship at the BBC. I was instantly attracted to this idea as I would gain a Level 3 qualification in Creative and Digital Media, valuable hands on experience within a production office and great contacts. I proceeded to write my answers for the lengthy online application form, I knew it wasn’t going to be easy as it’s highly competitive but I took a chance regardless. People are often concerned that they aren’t setting realistic goals for themselves and so they begin to question the possibility of succeeding. As the saying goes ‘fear kills more dreams than failure ever will’. I just needed to believe in myself and my qualities. There is no substitute for hard work and this apprenticeship could be the way forward- I had to give it a go.
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any weeks passed until I received a phone call for a group and panel interview. After an extremely long process, I was chosen along with 5 others out of approximately 300 applications for the scheme.
I started working shortly after and I’ll never forget the first piece of advice I was given as an apprentice; it was quite strange yet it made complete sense. My manager at the time sat me down and said to me, “I want you to be a sponge.” Take in or absorb as much information as possible and make yourself useful. Very early on in my career I grasped the importance of this and I always keep it in mind. I started off as a Production Management Assistant in the Documentaries department, simply by being keen to learn new things; I opened up
new opportunities for myself. For example, remaining curious allowed me to uncover my less obvious interests. I wasn’t certain that I wanted to become a Researcher until I was half way through my year. It was my willingness to learn about the editorial side of production work which made me realise my true passion. I wanted to find great stories and make it into content that will be enjoyed by many. Therefore I took on new challenges such as pitching story ideas to the head of documentary development. I remained pro-active by filming my own
taster tape and volunteering to work weekends as a Runner for multiple shoots. This was also a great way to network which is crucial in this industry. These commitments then lead me to do research work across different departments in the BBC. I have worked on programmes such as Special Forces- Ultimate Hell Week, DIY SOS and the Current Affairs programme Inside Out West’.
I
have just turned 20 years old and it’s unbelievable what I’ve been able to achieve so far in my life. My apprenticeship was such an incredible learning experience and I’m now working towards becoming a Producer/ Director. It truly goes to show that when you believe in your qualities and you have the courage to take on new challenges anything is possible. My advice to anyone starting off in this industry is to work hard, be a sponge and you will prosper.
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W MONTHLY WORD
LIVING BY FAITH
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living by faith is such a powerful statement and one I believe we shouldn’t take lightly. It’s one of the ‘buzz’ words that Christians use all the time! When you’re telling a Brother or Sister a certain situation you’re going through, at times the respond in saying, “you just need more faith”. When I first heard it I thought it was something that you gained the longer you are a Christian. Nonetheless, it’s not something you gain like a girl guide gaining badges; so what is it? The topic Living By Faith is so powerful seeing as you often heard Jesus Himself tell people “it’s their faith that healed them”. This would indicate what an important factor ‘living by faith’ is to a Christian. One of Jesus’ sermons was about having faith as a mustard seed, which will enable you to move mountains! No problem will be too big for you if you have faith (Matthew17:20). In order to live by faith you first have to know what faith is. The popular scripture in Hebrews sums up faith as something we hope for but can’t see it. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1NKJV. This scripture speaks to me about trust because if you can’t see something you’re going to have to trust that it is there. I don’t know about anybody else but for me I found the whole business of trusting in something I can’t see hard. As I’m a practical logical person and for others to say to me “it’s there” and I can’t see it or let me be honest now even feel it; which at times I’ve often felt I couldn’t feel God, then it was hard.
No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.”John 14:67 NKJV. In all of the above there’s a hint that there is something that you’re going to have to do. To just sit there and say I have faith I will get this job, but you’re not going to even fill out the application properly is not only selling yourself short but in James it tells us that Faith without works is dead! You can have the faith and you will get the job but there are things you have to do to put your faith into action (James 2). In The same chapter of James it talks about Abraham acting out in faith. He never knew what the outcome would be when God told him to sacrifice his one and only son; but he did it anyway. I always like Esther too, who in faith said that “if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16), she had trust in God that He would deliver the Jews and but things into action to allow God to be able to move in her life and those around her.
In Galatians I believe Paul summed it up nicely when He said “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20 NKJV. I think the scripture speaks volumes about one of the fundamental principles of living by faith, which is your relationship with God. The more I began to know who God is for me, the more I began to live by faith. The reason I found it hard to trust was because I couldn’t trust people I didn’t know. Get to know God the father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself said that to know Him If I had to sum up what living by faith was I would go right is to know the Father and when you know Him you see Him back to Hebrews 11 and the message version reads “The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd. By faith, we see the world called into existence by God’s word, what we see created by what we don’t see. By an act of faith, Abel brought a better sacrifice to God than Cain. It was what he believed, not what he brought, that made the difference. That’s what God noticed and approved as righteous. After all these centuries, that belief continues to catch our notice. By an act of faith, Enoch skipped death completely. “They looked all over and couldn’t find him because God had taken him.” We know on the basis of reliable testimony that before he was taken “he pleased God.” It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:1-6 MSG. I simply could not put it any better than that. Trust in God comes by us building on a relationship with Him; as communication with Him is so important; believing in Him and acting on that belief. 17
POET’S CORNER
ON TO FAIT-
HOLD
FAITH
Forever believing God will do the impossible Accepting His word and holding on when things can be uncontrollable
Identifying His Grace, thanking Him for everything and what is to come
Talking with Him, making your request known unto God and may His will be done
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Hallelujah to King of Kings and Lord of Lords for He is a Mighty and a Faithful God! HOLD ON TO FAITH- Forever accepting that God will transform your situation, praying to God by identifying your needs, searching for His goodness and comfort for He is God. Talking to Him daily, worshiping and acknowledging His works that is refreshing and satisfying deep down in our souls. Sing Praises unto God sing Praises! Hallelujah to the Holy one who will never leave us nor forsake us and new mercies we shall see. Hold onto FAITH♡ FAITH & THE WORD- For we walk by faith, nor by sight 2 Corinthians 5:7 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid; nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 ©Shantel Cherebin
HOPE IN SOCIETY Often, young people are told that they will face a harder future than the older generation. According to current issues such as the housing crisis, education and job prospects, this is arguably true. Furthermore, there are hard years to come ahead. So I encourage those to hold onto hope. Philippians 4:7 writes that God offers peace “which transcends all understanding”, indicating to let peace dwell within your soul. To have peace, for any problem one is facing, one must find peace. Peace is not easy. It is evident in current society. The wars that happen outside the Western society, such as the war in Syria and with so-called Islamic state, it makes peace look unachievable. There are some who hope that the wars will end peacefully rather than violently. If one was to achieve this, then the world may be safer. But back to domestic issues. One must help those who go through discomfort and suffering as well. This may be grievances, mental or physical pain, in which one can provide comfort. It can seem on the surface but sometimes it’s hard to tell if they’re fine. Nevertheless, that is why prayer is so important. It sends hope to those who hide their suffering and issues. It provides deliverance to their problem,know matter how small or big it may be. This starts a foundation for hope to build on God, which leads to a stronger faith. Toleration is also important for a foundation of hope. Yes, we must tolerate those around us. Even if they are a different religions such as Islam, Judaism or Sikhism, we must embrace them , as if they are our brothers and sisters. They are human and God’s creation, but we must hope that they will have the will to become Christ-like. This means without being force, and with their will and heart, and God’s will. Therefore, those we see who believe that we should remove those who do not walk the Christian faith, must think again. We as a community, must preach the word of God. This may encourage hope and provide love. The bible says “we are all in Christ”, thus we are all equal in Christ.
Ella Alalade
Ashleigh Barnett
GODS KNOWS MY HEART God knows my heart I may be misunderstood but God knows my heart and I may be understood but God knows my heart. I may be heard but God knows my heart and I may be misheard but God knows my heart. I may be unseen but God knows my heart and I may be seen but God Knows my heart. I may be still but God knows my heart or I may be in motion but Lord you know my heart. I may cry, I may laugh, I may shout, I may scream, I may whisper, I may walk, crawl, run or stall but God knows my heart. God only you know my heart. The cry of my heart, the tears and fears of my heart. The dreams of my heart and the desires of my heart. The aspirations and ambitions of my heart. The motive of every word spoken and unspoken, Of every action taken or not taken. Lord You know every reason in my heart. Every ache and pain of my heart, the joy and each smile of my heart. Lord only You know the hidden depths of my heart. I’m asking you to hear my heart as you look at my heart. Come into my heart and move in my heart. Clean up my heart and change my heart. Break my heart as you soften my heart, Melt my heart as you mould and fill my heart. Revive my heart as you breathe life into my heart. Resurrecting every dead dream and passion of my heart. Allow Your power to take over my heart. Causing me to love You and others from my heart. Letting me know to love myself too from my heart. But making sure I keep guarding my heart. Reminding me not to get puffed up with pride and arrogance as you humble my heart. Removing the anger and bitterness from every part of my heart. Even though many hurt me and stamped on my heart, not valuing my heart, but damaging my heart, causing resentment to take over my heart. As you call me to control my responses as I react from my heart. And to keep reaching out in love from a place of sincere care which You placed in my heart when You created my heart. Lord I need You to speak to my heart, redirect my heart, let your divine instruction take over my heart.
Release Your strength, peace and courage into my heart. Reassuring my heart, giving me a confident heart, in places where doubt, confusion and uncertainty have been consuming my heart. Father I’m calling you down to have Your way in my heart. As faith, love and power take over my heart. Stepping out of the boat, leaving complacency and comfort is a desire of my heart. As it’s time, a kairos moment to step out in faith as You move in my heart. It’s my heart and only God knows I’m after His own heart. So right now I seek You Lord with all of my heart. Because Lord only You know my heart.
#MyHeart #GodsHeart #OnlyGodKnowsMyHeart #JustCallMeAshleigh Becoming a Woman after God’s Own Heart
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The prize is that end goal of seeing Jesus and bringing as many souls to Him because I know He is coming back soon,
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MARX MAN
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WHO IS MARXMAN ? Marxman is a Gospel Hip Hop Artist and he has been developing his craft for 15 years and is still going strong. “I really love what I’m doing, It’s a passion of mine not just a talent.” How did you come up with the name Marxman? Originally, a rapper called Gifted, who used to mentor me gave me the name, at the time it was spelt with a K. We were in a group of four and he gave everyone their own individually names. As I developed I took out the K and replaced it with a X. “Marxman means always hitting the target and always being on point and that’s what I do with my lyrics.” How do you reach as many unbelievers as possible? I just speak from my heart and speak the truth and God has been opening doors for me to speak to young people and adults wherever and whenever I can. I go into a situation with the words that God gives me and deliver the message. “I don’t believe that we are called to stay within the church, God given us gifts to go out there and spread it to the world and be lights for Him.” Have you always known that you wanted to be a Gospel Hip Hop artist? No! I wanted to be a computer engineer, I got into it through my mentor Gifted. One Sunday me and my mum went to a new church and Gifted and another rapper were performing and I was blown away because at the time this was something unheard of in the church. I spoke to him afterwards and I told him that I really liked what he was doing next thing I knew I was at his house and he was showing me how to write lyrics and producing a track for me, the rest is history.
How did you become so passionate? As a child I always found it hard to express myself and I found it easier to do so in writing whether it be through writing poems or stories. As I became a rapper that desire to write and express myself helped me develop my passion. How are you different to other rap artists? When it comes to ministry God makes everyone unique, whether its style, the words you use or your personality. I’m different because of who I am, I don’t try to emulate anybody. I just bring the word that God has given me to bring. God has brought me here to reach certain people and he will use me in the way that he wants to. “I am a representative of Christ, people will look at me and take my word for truth. So I was always taught to be a minister first. In everything that we did we had to back it up with the Word.” What are the pressures of being a Gospel Hip Hop artist? At the start some churches weren’t very accepting of it but now it has completely changed. One pressure is being asked to rap at an event when I’m not ready. I just put my faith in God and he opens the doors and sets my path straight, I just leave it in his hands. “The prize is that end goal of seeing Jesus and bringing as many souls to Him because I know He is coming back soon.” What advice would you give young people who want to become Gospel Hip Hop artists? Don’t be scared, you will have the support of your church or your youth leader. Believe in yourself and the gift that God has given you and decide to use it for what God wants you to use it for. Don’t try to emulate anyone just stay in line with God and he will open doors for you. Random Fact? As a kid he used to sneak cookies from his mum with his sister. 23
Meet a Team Member We caught up with Eloise Dickson and her team as they gave us an insight on what they do and also how the live by faith. Eloise is the founder of Young Queens, an initiative set up to help inspire, encourage and provide positive platforms for young women and girls in their teens. Since pioneering the initiative, Eloise has managed to get a team; which has subsequently grown seeing as so many others see her vision. Eloise is a 21 year old Law student, who wants to pursue a career in family Law. Her aspirations to help others and inspire young women surrounding her has allowed her to do work in Ghana and also most commonly, here in London. Kemi, one of the Ambassadors for the charity was happy that she was able to join such an incredible charity who cater for others who are just like her. She wishes that there was such an initiative, back when she was growing up as she feels that it could have enhanced her knowledge and understanding of what it’s like to be a young woman and feel valued.
young women and hopefully empowering them to be a better woman.” As a role model, Eloise feels that it’s imperative to have patience and understanding. When working with younger people you have to understand that they have other commitments and priorities, so your ideas and events might not always be the first on their agenda. Nonetheless it is the way you consider their schedule and also give them the adequate space and time to be themselves. Respect is also key, as a leader you have to respect who you are working with and that ties in with knowing what it takes to be in leadership.
Eloise: “Make sure that you are seen as a role model doing good things.” The group of ambassadors has risen to a total of 26 different individuals, so as a group they are living by faith constantly, because they have to trust in each other and have faith that God can continue to lead and direct them, in aid to avert separation and malice.
Chloe: “We’ve been doing some work within schools, working with some
ELOISE AND YOUNG QUEENS
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Advice from Eloise: •
Hold on to your faith
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Know that what God has promised He will give unto you
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Ask God for vision helpers
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Have patience on God
Eloise feels that God’s favour has really blessed her foundation and that He has really taken control in certain situations. With faith, Christians are encouraged to have the ability to believe in God, but in terms of pulling a group together, you also have to pray.
Key things that allows Young Queens to thrive
Tell us Tell us something that nobody knows: Eloise: “People see me as a girly girl and in 2009 I won my school’s 200m race. “
• Faith • Prayer • Passion Eloise would like to see the Young Queens movement reach out on a more international scale, as she would like the same foundation to be fully established in Ghana and other parts of Africa. She feels like, she needs to help the girls out there so that they know that there are so many career paths in which they can take; steering them away from the stereotypical household career ambitions.
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Lemme break this down for y’all What makes you a Christian? Funny question, isn’t it? You may quickly respond with the argument that you believe in Jesus so that ‘’makes’’ you a Christian, but is it more than that? Is being a Christian more about loving Jesus? Can I still be a Christian and turn up every Wednesday night at Liquid?
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I am not here to judge or condemn that’s down to how you feel based on my response to this question.
Personally, I think that in being a Christian, there are many characterics so to say but I feel as though, faith is very important. James 2:18 reveals that but someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?
Fast Action ! Take Henceforth
Is it your willingness to serve? Take Philippians 2:4 says let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Lemme break this down for y’all
Fast Guys, I don’t wanna alarm you, but let’s not be ignorant to the fact that the end times are here. Each and every day something is going on in the world that just reveals that the end times are very close. Jesus is coming and he is coming soon. We must be stepping out from our comfortable lives and take action into helping those that are broken to know the love of God. As we have the love of God, let’s not be selfish and begin to walk outside and spread the sacrificial love that God has instructed us to have. Action It is time to take action. Everyday people put off things by saying you know what, I’ll do it tomorrow, myself included. But, who told you that you’ll be alive tomorrow or even healthy? You guys wanna take being able to walk, talk, eat and see for granted when you don’t realise that this is what someone out there is aiming for. Have I made you feel selfish? Good, because you need to realise that waking up and breathing by yourself is a blessing from God. God is always doing so much for you yet you take the smallest things for granted and don’t thank him, why? Because he doesn’t deserve it? Or because you haven’t actually realised how much God does for you? What are you doing that represents the love of Christ? 2 Corinthians 13:5 states; examine yourselves as to whether you are in faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? - unless indeed you are disqualified.
This means that we have to take responsibility in being accountable for each other too, if you see your Christian brother or sister doing something that you know they shouldn’t be doing, then have a word with them. We all claim to be brothers and sisters in Christ but how can that be when we won’t correct each other when we are wrong. Men and women, we need to STOP taking so much from each other. We allow ourselves to be consumed by so much. Whether it is, social media or Scandal, these things are taking so much from us, they are taking our attention and most importantly they are taking our time. Time is one thing that you will never get back, so when you have a moment to spare, why not see what you can be doing in order to better yourself. It’s not everyday back a motive, sometimes open your bible and back bible study. Henceforth The definition of henceforth is to live in the now and act upon your current situation. 2 Corinthians 4:17 tells us that our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever. This means that trust me, whatever you’re going through, it is not too big for God to handle. Our situations will not last long, but the glory of God from overcoming these situations is what we need to be focusing on. Learn how to praise God through the middle. This means that we should be praising God when we are going through trials, wait, hold up? Say what? YES. Going through trials means that God is stretching us and making us uncomfortable so that we can grow and learn new things about ourselves. Now, this needs to happen so that we can help others. We need to be so transparent with our loved ones that they know that trials never faze us because as God says there may be pain in the night, but joy comes in the morning.
As humans we are prone to speak about other people and what they have going on but it is time to reflect upon yourself and your own life. What have you got going on for yourself? 27
JAQUINDA JACKSON
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STAY IN YOUR GOD GIVEN LANE...KNOW YOUR MINISTRY
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hether you are the head of the sinNOW your ministry. gles ministry, youth ministry, or God has placed in your heart to get involved in a ministry, know that God has placed you there or has given you his means knowing the vision of your ministry, a specific vision for a specific purpose. Know who you are serving, and the need. The vision your purpose! In order for your ministry to be of the ministry is the “meat”, this is how you capsuccessful and to capture the hearts of others ture hearts who are passionate about serving to serve along with you, you must first know God by knowing the vision and being able why you are there. This comes to communicate the vision. The vision from continue to seek God Pray that God uses should be made plain so that others can through prayer and the Word. In your ministry and the easily understand and see themselves ministry, there are times when members who make serving with you in your ministry. If the vithings are really high, you are up the ministry sion is clear then people will get involved motivated and the team is mowith open hearts ready to serve. Once tivated; and then there are low you know your purpose, the vision of the times, when the morale is low. During your low season you may have to be ministry can become clear, now it is time to appreciate transparent with yourself to see what God is your team. Appreciate the ones who want to serve along trying to show you or tell you during this time. with you, let them be a part of the whole ministry vision. In order to captures others hearts to lead with Know that God did not gift you with a ministry only to you, to sow with you as brothers and sisters keep for yourself. Delegate roles and meet weekly with in Christ, you need to know why you are there, your team, pray for them to continue to do God’s work, once you know why you are there, you then and always let them know that you truly appreciate them.
A lot of people participate in ministry out of the kindness of their heart; after working 40 hours plus a week let them know that you value their commitment to the vision of your ministry in which God specifically put you in place to led it. he last thing to do is ALWAYS pray for your ministry continue to pray for your purpose and the vision of your ministry. Pray that God’s hand is in everything that your ministry does and pray for those that your ministry servers. Pray that God uses your ministry and the
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members who make up the ministry, to minister to those who are lost! While in prayer, never lose the faith! As a Christian our faith is often tested and it can impact our ministries. In prayer submit your worriers and concerns to God and leave them with Him. Keeping the faith shows God that you believe in the purpose that he has designed for you and that you recognize that all things operate off His timing and His timing only. Keep the faith! Pray without ceasing.
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THANKS FOR PURCHASE MORE SPACE LOREM
PURSUE YOUR PASSION
LIVING BY FAITH Hannah: walking by faith, and not by sight, is an ongoing journey within itself! Life throws so many choices, dilemmas and scenarios at us, and leaves us with the option of choosing to do it or not. I faced a position during work when a previous contract had ended, and there was no sign of another contract coming any time soon. I was practically working for free whilst job hunting at my workplace, my bank balance was slowly crying, I felt not only internalised pressure but also from close acquaintances. I decided to paint on a happy face, because I knew God had my back; knowing that I wasn’t alone in this gave me eternal peace.
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Working in broadcasting is never easy, especially when trying
me but I have God and all shall be well with me even if I do
to get contracted work; but it’s one of my deepest passions;
not know what will happen tomorrow. That is what faith
it genuinely didn’t feel like work; hence why I worked for free
is all about! The bible says in Hebrew 11:1 that, ‘faith is the
and loved it so much! Just before working at BBC TV where
assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not
I am now, I was video producing for BBC Africa; I gained so
seen’. In Corinthians it reminds us that , ‘we walk by faith
many great colleagues, and through prayer and determina-
and not by sight’. I have decided to trust and have confi-
tion, God revealed to me that there will be times when my
dence in God not knowing what may happen tomorrow.
faith will be tested whilst pursuing my purpose. Life throws us many things, promotions and rejections, Sometimes we need to ask ourselves; what would we rather
birth and death but one thing that remains and stays the
focus on? Our blessings? Or our burdens? We have so much
same is God. In the toughest of times, your faith will be
to be thankful for - surround yourself with the right people,
tested and tried. You may want to give it up but don’t,
good thoughts, read and do things that enlighten you and
keep pressing in faith. My auntie taught me something,
constantly remind you of how awesome you are. This will
which I always do now, whenever I receive happy or bad
build up your faith levels and remind you that you won’t re-
news, I thank God for it. It may sound crazy when you get
main in this drought for long; if anything, these low times are
the email ‘unfortunately…’ thanking God for it, but go
even a better reason to cling onto Christ as much as possible,
into praise break because you know something for you is
knowing that things will be ok - so long as you keep the faith!
coming. It is on its way, stay encouraged.
ANY amount of faith is good enough. Also, a way to be steady in your faith and continue to live “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have
in faith is to remember if God did before he will do it again.
faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain,
When I’m feeling down, I cast my mind to all the times
‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be
God brought me through. When we remember our own
impossible for you.” - Matthew 17:20.
testimonies and others, it encourages and strengthens you that God is more than able to do it again. I also look
Walking by faith is something I continue to carry out on a
to the great men and women in the bible. They all have
daily basis. It reminds me that I’m never alone in whatever
one thing in common, they lived by faith. If we all look at
situation I face, that I choose to believe in God as my provider,
the stories of the heroes of faith as I like to call them, Noah
healer and comforter, and that fear (the opposite of faith) is
was warned by God of the flood to come. Noah could have
simply False Evidence Appearing Real!
walked away and not believed that it will happen but by faith he built the ark and he and his family were saved.
Rachel: I find that we all love to quote ‘With man this is
My favourite Abraham, God told him to go to a stranger’s
impossible, but with God everything is possible’ but do we
land, he could have walked away yet he obeyed and had
actually walk and live by this word. When times are hard and
faith even though he did not know where he was going.
you feel everything is going against you do we still continue
When God promised Abraham that his descendants will
to have this faith? It is hard I admit. You may begin to believe
be numerous like the stars, he still walked in faith even
all the naysayers have been saying, or the stresses of life gets
though Sarah was past childbearing age. Jochebed (Mo-
to you and your faith whittles. I was at the place, when finish-
ses’ mother) lived by faith by hiding him for three months
ing university in 2014 and I was not entirely sure what I was
and she was not afraid of the Pharaoh’s edict. As we can
going to do next. Go into work or study more? What career
see, living in faith brings great reward, promise and a great
path am I going into? Law or something else? If you know me,
relationship with God. Keep the faith!
I am a planner. I like to know what I am doing tomorrow, next week and 6 months down the line. The unknown does scare
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MINISTER JOEL FAD
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Meets Arise
ook writer, worship leader, preacher, teacher and an all-round nice guy.
We caught up with Joel, as he talks about his ministry and what it takes to have faith in the Lord. As a writer Joel has a way of expressing his love for God and also uses his ability to spread the good news. This is something that we need to see more of in this day and age, seeing as the church seems to be lacking in positive role models, who are equipped with the word; have a good understanding of life skills and also knows how to encourage others when times are hard. What is transparent when you meet with Joel, is that he is a very humble young man of God; who seeks constantly seeks more from God. At such a young age, Joel has achieved so much, so to find a young person with such humility, is not just inspiring but also unique. The 23 year old London born, was brought up in a Christian home and has carried the house values through to his ministry. He now leads young people at his local church and also teaches, seeing as his passion is to share the word. Being heavily involved with church activities Joel, ultimately, is led by faith. When you are in ministry you have to believe at all times, because you are constantly seen as a role model and someone who is there to encourage the weakened and lead those who need direction. “I have written two books. The most recent one I wrote is called Building Positive Relationships and the other one I wrote is called They That Waits.” His inspiration came from God ministering to Joel. He was going through the final year of his studies and in the midst of writing his dissertation, Joel was extremely burdened by the things others around him were going through, so felt led to write a book to help encourage those struggling and aim to elevate their Christian walk. All Christian’s have to show God’s love and Joel demonstrates that through the way he serves and by allowing God to lead him as a leader. Direction too is key when in ministry. You have to be bold enough to ask God 32
to lead you into the right paths so that you are able to make the right choices and also good decisions. In order for you to be lead, you must have faith, as it’s a key substance in ministry, in which Joel illustrates through his exemplary leadership. “I was thinking how do I share to the whole what God was saying to me to the whole world and I thought the best way was to put it in a book because if I physically can’t get to someone out there in the world, then the book can certainly reach them.” Joel built positive relationships when he went to University. Initially he felt alienated, but when he found a group of believers surrounding him, who looked to get him closer to the word and God, he felt comfortable then and was able to express himself well. At times as young Christians or people, we feel lonely and sad. However, if we socialise with like-minded individuals and bond with good company, then we can progress. We need to be around positive influences and others who provide support for our best interest. “I’m a teacher, I believe my main ministry is teaching.” Teaching the word is pioneered by faith in God. You have to believe in what you are teaching, otherwise who is going to believe your teachings.
“When you didn’t choose ministry but ministry chose you is when you know it is for you. Just like when the light of God is inside of you, it just shines through.” Joel’s advice on ministry: • I would encourage you not to give up, because there is a lot of space and different avenues for you to reach out to people. It is so easy to give up, but you have to train yourself that if God has called you to do this, He will see you through it. • Another advice would be, get stuck in the word and spend time with God personally, is what will help your ministry. • Maintain your faith. • Stay prayerful. Tell us something about yourself that not many people know? “When I was younger, I used to watch a lot of TD Jakes and other preachers, so what I used to like watching is seeing people being prayed for and then falling, so me and my brothers always practised that amongst ourselves.
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Into Gods house Sitting there waiting for the word to envelop us, To reach out and touch, Came here looking for an answer without a question, Are we asking a little too much? Just like the lost sheep that we are, Waiting to be herded in, The world is becoming a totally desperate place, And so were trying to hide from all the sin. Looking for a sanctuary, A place where we feel we belong, But yet there’s so much that were missing here, Why does it feel a little wrong? Have people got caught up with fakery? Has deception infiltrated the church doors? It shouldn’t be an issue for a true believer, It’s not other people we came here for. Although we share our space with others We are here by and for the grace of God, Not for peoples judgement or to judge them, But because of our hope and faith in the Lord.
©Areatha Mogagabe
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