Divine Inspirations Magazine October 2011
Stop Casting Your Pearls Before Swine pg. 30
Break Out of Your Shell! Pg.27 10 Reasons to be Generous pg,24
Mylow Young Author of
“Against the Gates of Hell: A Crack House Exodus Vol.2 Issue 10
Pg. 18
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Divine Inspirations Magazine 233 Hirst ave Lansdowne Pa 19050 484-429-5080 Website: http://www.divineinspirationsmagazine.com Email: divineinspirationsmagazine@gmail.com We Welcome All Freelance Writers Share Your Inspired Words in Divine Inspirations Editor in Chief Qualita Pendergrass Layout & Graphic Designer Blake Pendergrass Inspired Words to Uplift and Edify the Spirit
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HOUSEWORK My spirit was an untidy mess; hence unclean and cluttered. My heart was worn out; barely thumped; it faintly fluttered. I was knocked down by many years pain and unrelenting sin. So filthy, I was too ashamed to invite Jesus’ Spirit to come in. Jesus came often to my house; He knocked at my injured spirit. He whispered gently of His love; I feigned that I did not hear it. Jesus unwearyingly knocked; man’s hands would have been sore. I couldn’t convince myself to unfasten my bewildered soul’s door. Oh well, you know how Jesus rolls; He is bound and determined. His intention was to save my iniquitous mortal souls from burnin’. My life arrived at a place’; I was so wicked I could almost see hell. Hell’s burning pits are no place for a human being’s soul to dwell. I realized that I needed Jesus; I couldn’t clean my own filthy home. My house had bee too dirty for too long; I couldn’t do it on my own. Because of confusion; I tuned out Jesus knock for a really long time. I felt a hoarder; it was time to clean up that dirty inner home of mine. I responded to the knock of Jesus; with sincere utterances of remorse. Thank God for Jesus’ patience of; I got a chance to make a new choice. My house is in order; by God’s grace and my surrender to His holy will; Christ made His way into my dirty house; His Spirit resides with me still. BY: Sharon Reid-Robinson September, 2008
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In Between By C.C. Shumake I love to travel. I have a personal goal to visit every
is one thing constant in life, it is change. You know you have
continent on the face of the earth. Well, with the exception of
reached In Between the moment you hang up from that 2 AM
Antarctica for obvious reason. I am not a polar bear. But, there
phone call informing you, “There’s been an accident.” You
is a land I unwittingly visit with great frequency; without any
take up residence in In Between while reading the pink slip
real intention. I do not like this place. I try to stay away but I
your boss just placed in your hand. Your doctor has revealed
cannot avoid it. It is not on any map but I guarantee you have
your test result. The growth is malignant. Next stop: “In Be-
been there too.
tween”. The children of Israel spent 40 years In Between. No
It looks like a bomb was dropped there. Bits and
longer slaves, not yet a nation.
pieces of people’s life scattered all over the landscape. It is an
It can be a hopeless, barren land; a place to muddle
arid place. Hot and dry. You will find little relief from the
through, feeling lost, empty, alone, hurt, discouraged and de-
elements. It is over-populated but there are no signs of life.
feated, while waiting on things to change. But I want to reveal
When you stop by, you find the current tenants merely exist;
something very interesting about In Between. It is deceptive,
they are not thriving, they are just biding their time. It is an
much like a Michigan winter. Everything feels cold and un-
abysmal place and you want to get out as quickly as you can.
welcoming, looks dead and lifeless. But, underneath the blan-
Though, it is not an easy place to leave. It is called, “In Be-
ket of snow, the earth is bursting with new life. In Between,
tween”
though painful, is the most fertile soil for transformation in In Between is that place where life is neither what it
which you will ever plant your feet. It can be the place of your
was nor what it will become. It is akin twilight – not day but
largest defeat or your most significant spiritual growth. It can
not night either. It is the place, well, in between here and
be the place of premature death or the beginning of the great-
there. Normal (here) has been disrupted and your new normal
est adventure of your life. It can be the place where faith per-
(there) has not yet been revealed. It is that murky place of
ishes. Or the place where God does the deepest work in our
transformation.
hearts He has ever done.
Getting to In Between is very easy. There is nothing
See, there is change taking place in In Between. One
you have to do. Just keep on living, as the old-folk say. Its
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borders are precipitated by a life-changing event. And if there 5
way or the other, you are becoming something. You are either
may also be revealed in our body. Paul was saying, “Look, we
becoming an embittered, complaining, resentful, entitled
are surrounded by trouble, beat-up in every way. But we are
grouch. (Ouch!) Or you are becoming a surrendered, grateful,
going through the vilest persecution so you can get in on the
faith-filled, Christ-centered overcomer. And it is not our reac-
best … the world-changing power of the resurrected life of
tion to what landed us In Between that determines what we
Jesus Christ! Paul experienced In Between a lot. Because of
become. There is a saying, “God knows and Jesus under-
his response to God, “In Between” transformed Paul’s torture
stands.” God accepts that we are going to be hurt, disap-
into a powerful testimony. Because he kept his focus on God’s
pointed, and angry even, in times of turmoil. He expects us to
plan, from the place called “In Between” emerged the Apostle
react to pain. It is not our reaction that controls where we end
to the Gentiles.
up. Rather, it is our response. Our response to God determines
If you are In Between, and if you are not now you
if we end up becoming salty or flavorless.
will be, I want to encourage you. I do not know how long it
To survive In Between with our faith intact, we must
will take but hold on. On the other side of In Between is the
keep in the forefront of our minds that God is inherently good
promise land. A land with renewed joy, unshakeable faith,
and that His plans for us are good. Trusting His character will
peace beyond comprehension, Christ-centered living and a
bring great peace when life tilts on its axis. Let me give you
new face, which looks a lot like Jesus.
an example. Last year my husband and I had a misunderstanding. Because he always treats me and others with thoughtfulness and kindness, when we addressed the issue I was able to say to him, “Baby, I felt disrespected when X happened but I know your heart for me so help me understand what happened and where I might be wrong in my perception.” Because we have faith in our love and friendship, we were able to deal with the issue and continue on as if nothing ever happened. If you can maintain trust in the goodness of the Lord, even though you are disoriented and cast down, you will emerge with a life-altering faith that will have profound impact on your life and the lives of others. Paul wrote in II Corinthians 4:8-10: We are hard pressed on every side, but not
Cheryl C. Shumake
crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; cast down but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus 6
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TODAY/TOMORROW: GOD OR SATAN? WHO WILL YOU SERVE?
Greetings, Loved One. It’s hard to believe that we are again approaching the end of another year, 2011 – a year in which God has bestowed His blessings upon us, and a time in which none of us deserved His blessings. We cannot earn these blessings. God gives them to us solely because of His grace and mercy. They are a gift.
What is grace? Grace is one of the key attributes or characteristics of God. It is His favor or kindness shown without regard to the worth or merit of the one who receives it and in spite of what that person deserves. What is mercy? Another key attribute of God. It is the kindness of God in withholding deserved judgment and extending undeserved compassion and forgiveness to us. God can do this without compromising His justice, because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Did you know that God weeps? Yes, we, His greatest and most loved creation, can truly cause Our Father to weep. He weeps in His spirit for us. It saddens Him to see us embrace sin, for which He gave His life.
A much-celebrated “fun time” for some is, once again, in our midst. It is called “Samhain” or, better known as, “Halloween”. Please be patient with me as I give you some information which you may not know about Halloween. What you will learn is absolute, startling truth.
Halloween is a religion to honor Satan (also known as Lucifer, who became a fallen angel from Heaven because he rebelled against the throne of God – he wanted to be God). This “holy day” of Satan was originally observed more than 4,000 years ago. The main purpose of this religion is to declare Satan the god of this world, and to contact other spirits of the underworld for empowerment to do evil. Within the structure of Satan’s kingdom, many members hold high positions of authority under the titles of High Priest and High Priestess. (Continued on page 10)
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All the seemingly innocent symbolisms of Halloween – black cats, snakes, broomsticks, bonfires, “Trick or Treat”, Jack-O-Lanterns (or carved-out pumpkins, an ancient symbol of a doomed soul and denotes sympathy to the souls of the underworld), apple dunking and costumes – has its roots in Sorcery, Witchcraft and Satanism. God clearly warns us in the Holy Scriptures of the consequences of participating in any form of pagan (or occult) activity. The Holy Scriptures unmistakably instructs us that spiritualism is forbidden. Please study these passages from the Holy Scriptures for your guidance. There are others, as well.
of Columbine”. All graduated to the murder of human beings. There are others, too numerous to count, notorious or not. The spectrum of believers to this doomed faith and worship is permeated throughout our communities, even today. Recruitment is rampant. No one is exempt by position in life – not the homemaker, not our leaders, not law enforcement, not the pulpit. No one. God has commanded us to separate ourselves from these things and not compromise. A few hours of pleasure celebrating this unholy being is not worth relinquishing the gift of eternal life God has offered us.
The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Galatians, Chapter 5:19-21.
Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will return soon and take the faithful in Him to Heaven. If you are a Christian, please confess your sins and rededicate yourself to Him. If you do not know Christ, please confess your sins and ask Him to be your personal Lord and Savior.
The Book of Malachi, Chapter 3:5. The Fifth Book of Moses, Deuteronomy, Chapter 18:10-12. The Book of Revelation of Jesus Christ, Chapter 21:8. Other real-life and documented tragedies and symbols devoted to the recognition and furtherance of Satan’s kingdom are:
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter, Chapter 3:9.
Human Sacrifices. These are demonic killings on altars using babies, little children and adults, for their blood. Drinking of the blood is to empower, for the doing of evil, the ones who drink of it. Female sacrifices (infants to adults) are often raped before they are murdered for their blood. Just as in abortion, the children have no voice in their circumstance and destiny.
The choice is yours.
WHO WILL YOU SERVE?
Breeding Machines. Teen girls are impregnated and their babies used as blood sacrifices. Just like the babies and younger children, they are robbed of their opportunity to choose how their bodies and minds are used.
This plea to accept Christ as your Lord and Savior is my gift to you. A SUGGESTION: Purchase and hand-out Christian material on Salvation instead of candy. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
Animal Sacrifices. Bones, body parts and blood are used in rituals.
Submitted By:
Horror/Occult Movies. Witches are often used as Technical Advisors to authenticate the satanic theme of the film.
Brenda J. Brooks luvpsalm13914@yahoo.com
Children’s Books. Most popular is Harry Potter. These books presented as fantasy, embrace witchcraft and sorcery, which are sin in God’s eye. The seemingly innocence of the characters and storylines are being absorbed into the developing and impressionable psyche of our children, and will have a negative influence in their future decisionmaking processes and actions. Demonic Symbols. The Pentagram (a five-pointed star inside a circle) used to symbolize Satan. Number “666” (the number of Satan). Upside-Down Cross (another symbol of Satan; used in his rituals; an abomination to our Holy God, used to ridicule His purpose). Celebrity. Persons of notoriety who have been determined by mental specialists to have very possibly acquired their lust for evil through personal experience in the killing of animals, drug use, or absorption of mind-altering virtual reality games – Charles Manson, Ted Bundy, and the “Boys 10
When your spouse is the Silent Type Pastors Mike & Trisha Fox cause they fail to comprehend that their spouse is not them; they're different and that's exactly how God made them.
They say that opposites attract- and that's true. However, sometimes, opposites can clash, - even in our most spiritual state.
We cannot change our spouse, but it not only our responsibility, but our privilege to learn and love them the way they need to be loved and cherished.
Our Christian experience, depth and Christian activities do not dictate our personality! It is vital to realize that an enormous amount of our marital and relational experiences really do not depend on our Spirituality, but on our learning of our partner and how best to love them.
God really did make us different We first need to fully understand, and accept, that we are all made different, consisting of varying character and personality traits, along with the baggage or mileage of our past which inevitably shapes who we are and how we think; regardless of where we're at Spiritually.
Understanding our spouse This alone is worth the length of a book all in itself, but let's shed a little light on how we can best understand, encourage and love our spouse if they are naturally the "quiet type."
In other words, God does not change who we are, but uses and blesses who we are for His glory and if we are married, to bless, encourage, compliment and connect with our spouse to make the marriage complete.
It was once said by Dr. John Gray, author of 'Men are from Mars; Women are from Venus', "When men and women are able to respect and accept their differences then love has a chance to blossom.�
Many who are dealing with a spouse who is either opposite, or in this article's case, introverted, get very frustrated in what appears to be the lack of direct openness and motivation to work through things.
In understanding our spouse, whether they are introverted or extroverted, (soft spoken or outspoken) it is important to realize that the more you learn about your partner, the more enriched your marriage and relationship will be!
In a Harvard study of several hundred preschoolers, researchers discovered an interesting phenomenon. As they
Countless couples face constant frustration simply be-
(Continued on page 12)
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taped the children’s playground conversation, they realized that all the sounds coming from little girls’ mouths were recognizable words. However, only 60 percent of the sounds coming from little boys were recognizable.
If you can understand yourself and others, you can more effectively minister and love. This includes your spouse! Here is a brief, yet detailed summary of the General Personalities of people:
The other 40 percent were yells and sound effects like "Vrrrooooom!" "Aaaaagh!" "Toot toot!" This difference persists into adulthood.
Originally, there has been FIVE major Personality Styles that we can fit in, although as with anything, there are many variations and exceptions to every rule. The following is just your base...
Communication experts say that the average woman speaks over 25,000 words a day while the average man speaks only a little over 10,000. What does this mean for our understanding of marriage and relationships?
Extroverted Outgoing, open and easy to talk to, spontaneous. Introverted Observatory, careful, watchful, not spontaneous, planning Analytical Calculating scenarios, logical, reasoning. Driver Plan, first to lead, unafraid to fail, successful Amiable Friendly, caring, compassionate, trustworthy
On average, the wife may need 45 minutes to an hour each day in meaningful conversation with her husband to feel close and reconnected. Yet for husbands, the average is only 15-25 minutes, possibly only a few times per week! The needs are different; the expression of communication is different and our character and makeup of who are is different as well. Force it open, it will break Out of sheer frustration, many spouses try to "pry" open their spouse and demand and force their spouse to deal instantly with issues that are at hand. Realize that in most cases, yes those issues are real, they are important and they do need to be addressed. But there has to be a loving middle ground that both the extroverted and introverted can comfortably deal with in their own way.
Imagine if you have an Extroverted-Driver (E.D.) and an Introverted-Amiable (I.A.) in the same room discussing deep, emotional, important issues. What do you think the outcome will be? In the most likely case scenario, the Extroverted-Driver will eventually get fueled up emotionally about what they believe, and the Introverted-Amiable will become more and more reclusive. The E.D becomes increasingly dominating, and overbearing, driving loudly their point to where the I.A. will eventually stop talking all together.
However, we wholeheartedly agree that no matter how or when - there are just some issues that must be dealt with asap to avoid possible marital disaster.
Know thyself - and thy spouse Learn the Personality traits of our spouse and yourself “Only those who respect the personality of others can be of real use to them” ~Albert Schweitzer
A few tips for the frustrated spouse on how to communicate to their soft-spoken partner
1. When speaking to your spouse, watch your pitch
It is helpful to better understand our own personality, and gather some hints as to the personality of others. This, in turn, helps us not only to be better ministers and people, but better witnesses to those outside the gates of the church realm, and better at loving our spouse because we understand their personality.
and loudness. The pitch and loudness presents to your spouse that you are becoming irritated, frustrated not with the problem… but with them! This behavior actually easily translates to the soft-spoken spouse a flat (Continued on page 13)
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out disproval of "them", and in essence is screaming in their face on how unhappy you are with them, your marriage and an overall displeasure of them as your spouse.
be incorporated into that relationship. We must get to a place in our Christian walk, that we learn how to “build up” other’s strengths, instead of tearing down our differences. “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3 –KJV)
2. Watch out for blaming or accusing statements. Pointing your finger or verbally blaming your partner only elevates any type of defensiveness in your partner. This is counter-productive. Draw them out with kindness. Instead of allowing anger to be your motivating factor of discussing things, you need to use soft love and kindness to help them "trust" that you are not out to hurt them or tear them apart. Most cases of introversion are really people who are in defense mode trying to protect themselves from either looking silly, feeling stupid, being hurt by others and basically keeping themselves from being vulnerable to others.
Marriage Coaches Mike & Trisha Fox MARRIAGE FOR TODAY www.marriagefortoday.com info@marriagefortoday.com
Pastor Mike and Trisha Fox
If you cannot control your temper, anger or intensity in your heated discussions, you need help.
Conclusion Christians need to scrap the unbiblical idea that Counseling is not biblical. This is one of the age old traditional cliché's that do not hold water in the light of scripture. How can we forget that Jesus Christ Himself is called "Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father" (Is. 9:6) Most people don't even think twice about the word "counselor". If your marriage is heading in a direction that consists of angry, violent or unfruitful discussions, it is indeed heading in the wrong direction… period. Whether you are praying 24 hours in a day, fasting 7 days per week, some things don't come by spiritual means. They come by you actually physically doing something about your marriage. Whether it's Marriage Counseling, Marriage Coaching, your Spiritual leaders or a trusted, unbiased person, it is imperative that assistance 13
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The Truth About Shame Judith M. Mosley
Shame is a powerful emotion that yields no positive results. If you are under its influence, you are primed to live not producing much fruit. It makes you afraid, usually of having a behavior, weakness or embarrassing situation exposed. Your progress is halted. Shame even causes you to doubt if God could possible love someone such as yourself. It wounds you so deeply that you cannot carry God’s will for you as he has planned it. You are inconsistent. You start and stop, leaving tasks unfinished and people untouched. Shame and being ashamed don't have the same meaning. It is good to be ashamed of wrong behavior or habits, because that can lead to repentance And I said: “O my God, I am too ashamed and humiliated to lift up my face to You, my God; for our iniquities have risen higher than our heads, and our guilt has grown up to the heavens. Ezra 9:6. On the other hand, allowing yourself to be under the control of shame, listening daily to its damnable accusations is a different matter altogether. Unless you uncover the truth about shame, you could die believing you were a failure. What is the truth about shame? What is it that shame has kept hidden, so it will survive and you will remain in its grip? This truth is found in Hebrews 12:2: Looking unto Jesus the author and the finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame. Did you see the last three words, “despising the shame”? Jesus set the example for you. He showed you that shame is to be despised (hated). He gave shame no place in His life. Scholars have said that Jesus hung on the cross naked. How shameful! Yet Jesus did not allow that shame to overpower Him, depress Him, and keep Him from carrying out the will of the Father, namely dying on the cross for our sins. You too cannot give shame any authority. It cannot dictate what you will do, where you will go or what you will become. You have to be free to run the race that God has designed. He has a work for each of His children to do. Don’t allow shame to get in the way. Despise it like Jesus did. Kick it out of your life, and then live!
If you want to be better later, do your best now.
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Mother 2 Mother We need to sit down and reason about the change
HELP ANOTHER MOTHER.
of season.
So many mothers feel so alone.
Can you see what’s happening in the world today?
What will it take before we take heed?
Society is making our children lose their identity
We have the power to lead and succeed.
and personality to carnality. Let us help stop this unnecessary bleed. We’re losing our son’s and daughters, to street We need to act now and put our hands to the
slaughters.
plough. Our children are dying, mothers crying and even Mother 2 Mother please wake up, we are living in
sighing.
perilous times. No one seems to get to the root of these problems. We can make a change before society becomes Your child may not be a victim of gun and knife
deranged.
crime, We have women leaders in Government and in the But as a mother you should be caring,
Police.
Sharing your thoughts and opinions with other
We need to make the bloodshed cease.
mothers. Mother 2 Mother let us pray and ask God to make a So many mothers are going through silent pain
way for every mother’s child.
Their loved one has gone in vain. Where’s the encouragement and support? We don’t need to hear another bad report. Mother’s trying to cope with their loss? It’s time to stop covering it with gloss. We need to make a stand and take hold of each other’s hand. United we stand divided we fall.
© 2011 Maureen Morgan
Mother 2 Mother can’t you hear the Heavenly call to 16
Memo to God As I sit back and think about all that you’ve done for me I give thanks for your grace and mercy For all the things in this life that I’ve been through There is no way possible that I could have ever made it without you. You’ve been my shelter during the storm and rain The only one who truly understood my pain. My shoulder to lean on when I needed to cry A friend indeed, by and by. Yes, you are the solid rock on which I stand When life events get out of hand The better of me than I thought I would ever be But that’s because you bring out the best in me. You’ve blessed me with the wisdom to achieve my life goal With that I’ve found your creativity to be the quality of my soul Your vision, sometimes a mystery I now know is my purposed planned destiny. So while I sit back and think about all that you’ve done for me I know without a doubt that I’ve been blessed abundantly. So I rise to my feet Shouting with great praise and sweet jubilee “Thank You God for always loving me!”
Yvette Johnson The Inspirational Poet The Tilted Tea Cup – All Things Inspire ©092011
.
Psalms 106:1 Hallelujah! Thank You Lord! How good you are! Your love for us continues forever
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Mylow Young
Author of: Against the Gates of Hell: A Crack House Exodus
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was the only real thing I knew as the hopelessness of a crack addiction became a way of life for me.
Against the Gates of Hell: A Crack House Exodus
What is there for the addicted one to embrace when he or she has concluded that love and acceptance has evaded them? When approval from the ones that mean the most seems non-existent? When rejection has killed a dream or any presence of life? When these most basic needs go unmet, what do you do? You search for the fulfillment of that need anywhere and anyway you can get it! Some try and find comfort from another person, leading often to emotional, verbal or physical abuse, losing themselves further to hopelessness and more shame.
Over the years there have been special days or months of the year to recognize, commemorate or honor a people or a cause. On any given day of the year, if you search, you will find a day for something or someone. There is Big Brothers and Big Sisters Month, Earth Day, Cancer Awareness Month and of course, Black History Month. But many go unnoticed, many of which we don’t have a clue that they even exist. The one dearest to me and the one I most recently learned about is National Drug and Alcohol Recovery Month which is in September. Like many of the days and months we observe, just as soon as the month is over… so is our awareness. For Black History Month we can be sure to see TV shows that deal with the struggles of Black America. You know “Roots” will be on someone’s network. What unsettles me though, is that there is very little recognition (unless you’re watching BET) or observance at any other time of the year.
Others look to alcohol which is easily and legally obtained from the corner store but when that’s not enough, smoking weed or taking pills is the commonly preferred method of self medication and even accepted by many as being “okay”. But often, the “occasional” or “recreational” user eventually gives in to the deception and the lure of “pleasure” only to find themselves falling headfirst into crack cocaine, methamphetamine or heroin. The downward spiral has developed into a world of hurt and utter destruction! Now the law is being broken and the risks have taken a much more serious progression.
But it’s the same with other issues as well, particularly with the issue of drug and alcohol abuse. Let’s bring attention to it for thirty days… then what? What are we thinking or doing during this time? More importantly, what are we doing the rest of the time? More than likely we’re talking about how so and so is “on that stuff” or his brother, sister or even Father or Mother. But how often do we ever try to find help for the one who’s struggling?
“I only do it to take the edge off and relax from a hard and stressful day at work” or “to get away for a minute”, some say while others are “only having a little fun”. What we don’t see at the time is that one little trip to Fantasy Land can lead to a reality that will rival your worst nightmare! You can pinch yourself all you want but you’re already awake, this is real! Devastation has become your life! The choice has been made… now your life is over… WRONG!!!!
As I said, this particular cause is close to my heart. The reason is, I struggled with drugs and alcohol on and off for over twenty-five years. I remember the looks and the treatment I received from family and friends as I resigned myself to a life of guilt, degradation and humiliation. Shame
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Yeah, choices were made and the reaction to the cards dealt, to the circumstances of life has landed the addicted one at the place they now reside. It is in fact a choice. They could have chosen to respond differently to the hurt but didn’t. That’s a fact as well, and that’s where we are… for now.
tinue. What would I do? What could I do? I left Philly with a the shred of a glimmer of hope tucked away in the deepest recesses of my soul, in search of a way out of my mess but only found more opportunity to indulge my hunger and thirst for drugs. Even after landing in Lenoir, NC where I heard hope lived, where I had even met hope. Hope resided at a place called Bethel Colony of Mercy, a ministry set apart to show men like myself that there was a life beyond the grasp of crack cocaine and other drugs (and other life controlling issues) and that Jesus was the source of that life. But I had to give myself to Him like I had to the drug but I was unsuccessful. I caught a glimpse of hope but it seemed just beyond my reach. After going through their program three different times, I left Lenoir for Statesville, N.C. still not free from the bondage of drugs and alcohol. One night, it was around midnight, after spending all of my money on a drug binge I stood on a deserted corner and wondered again what had happened. But God was merciful to me. I had met a pastor of a church who knew of a place like Bethel where I could find my freedom and I was again faced with the promise of hope. “The Transformation Center” was a place started by another local church that had men of God as teachers and would build on the previous foundation and insisted that hope indeed was alive. And then, through no power of my own, there was that moment… “AH HA!” Everything that I had heard and was taught hit me square in the head and settled firmly in my heart! Hope had found its way into my heart and made itself at home! Slowly, methodically I believed! I believed in HOPE! Hope is a man
The choices I made stemming from a childhood of rejection and criticism led me to the streets where I found a measure of acceptance from my peers, which, later on only led to more pressure to perform and stay accepted. This is what my life was like at twelve and thirteen. It was unknown to me at the time that addiction was in its early stages. I made the choices I did as a young man as well as later in life because I was never equipped emotionally to make any other. There is usually the sense of right and wrong but when the pain of rejection is so extreme, in dysfunction, wrong becomes normal. For twenty six years I lived my life bound to some form of drug. Much of that life I lived destitute and in despair and even homeless at times. I walked the streets of Philadelphia and many times called the crack house my home. Other times I would sneak on the subway so I would have somewhere to sleep for the night. That was my existence… what I called “life”. I was hopelessly trapped in a mindset of rejection and worthlessness and freedom from addiction was impossible for me it seemed. This was it for me though; this was my life I thought so I had to play the cards that were dealt me. The thing is, I was a very poor card player. Where was hope? It was nowhere I could see. What did I believe in… God? He saw my situation; He knew what I was going through but still allowed the avalanche, this downward spiral of hopelessness to con-
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named Jesus, God in the flesh who, when I thought I was unlovable, loved me all along! Through my mess, through rejection, through my so called failure and perceived worthlessness! I believe! I believe in hope! There IS hope for me! Hallelujah! I’ve been clean now for about eight years! God restored everything the devil had stolen from me… with interest! I have a beautiful bride – Sondra - of over eight years who is my biggest system of support. I serve as a deacon now and was licensed as a minister by the same church God used to bring me up out of the pit! He is so awesome! Shortly after learning I was already free because of what Christ did for me that I could not do for myself, I began to walk in that freedom. I wanted to tell others of the freedom I found since surely there are those who feel as hopeless and helpless as I did. People have got to know that there is an abundance of mercy and grace just waiting to fill their lives. That there is a forgiving God who loves them just as they are and doesn’t condemn them. He brings life! So I began to write a book, mixing in some of my experiences. “Against the Gates of Hell: A Crack House Exodus”. The following is a synopsis of the story:
Herby, Kerby’s identical twin brother is angry with Kerby for turning on his family, friends, and the police force and for going down this destructive path. As his heart hardens and he is caught up in his own battle of resentment and bitterness, he tries to shut Kerby out. But Rene, his God-fearing wife won’t allow that to happen. Instead she continually appeals to his conscience, reminding him of God’s unfailing love and Kerby’s need for his help. When Kerby uses his past identity as a police officer to rob the biggest drug dealer in Philly, a price is put on his head. Learning of Kerby’s latest antics, Herby, family and friends are challenged to push past their struggles to help keep him alive and break free of his addiction. Spiritual Themes: God’s unconditional love and healing power are evidence in this story about one man’s struggle to break free of a crack addiction and turn his life around. The other spiritual themes that stand out in Against the Gates of Hell are faith and hope as the reader gets a glimpse of struggles endured by family members and friends to forgive and be restored to the main character. Product Details: $14.99, Paperback. Publisher: Lift Every Voice/Moody Publishers (September 1, 2011). Language: English ISBN-10: 0802401694 ISBN13: 978-0802401694
There is a lot of debate on the subject as to why someone living in addiction seems to not want to get out. Let me say that no one wants to be addicted to drugs, and of course that’s never the intention. No one ever wakes up and says “I want to be a drug addict”. No little girl ever says “I wanna be a prostitute when I grow up” and no little boy ever says “I wanna be a liar, a thief and a murderer”. These are all consequences of bad decisions. But you can help decrease the odds of your kids becoming addicts (yes, your kids as well as you can become drug addicts and alcoholics and everything
Kerby Wilson had always looked down on those who partook and pedaled drugs which claimed the lives of many in the streets. Now he finds himself duped by his own pride and going down a very desperate path of his own. Distraught over the death of his parents and the murder of a fellow police officer, Kerby alienates those closest to him, pushing them away-his wife, brother, police force buddies and old friends. As the bottom falls out of his life and darkness consumes his soul, he sells all that he holds dear for an elusive state of peace.
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else in the middle) by first, loving your children. Don’t ever tell your child or teen that they are worthless and will never amount to anything. You’re only speaking death to them and helping to seal their fate. Instead, give them nurturing and support while they’re young. As they grow let them know that they are your gift from God and that they are significant and have value and potential! When children and teens have what they need at home they are less likely to look for something more outside. Talk with your kids and find out about their lives. So, if there was hope for me, a twenty five year veteran of drugs and alcohol, then for sure, there is hope for ANYONE dealing with ANYTHING! There is hope for YOU! *** Contacts: gatesofhell1@gmail.com or visit my website at www.mylowyoung.com for ordering information or to be encouraged by my poetry and blogs. I also have a written a poetry book “You Can Still Rise Again: A Collection of Poems for the Struggle available at www.authorhouse.com You can also find me at www.facebook.com/mylowyoung Go to Against the Gates of Hell: A Crack House Exodus “Fan page” and press “Like”. Thanks for your time and support…
You Are Blessed!
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Your Local Gospel Network Founder
Derrick Williams
Bio:
Derrick Williams is a man on a mission. Born and raised in Hampton, Va., Mr. Williams has always believed that his destiny was to be an entrepreneur. With a passion for marketing, he began promoting small businesses in the local community in 2010. A short time later, God’s vision evolved allowing him to establish Your Local Gospel Network. YLGN was created to highlight local ministries and gospel artists; it has since expanded to include authors and small business owners around the country. Mr. Williams is committed to helping other believers share their talents with as many people as possible. Mr. Williams is married to Shimeka Williams. Although they do not have children yet, they are the proud owners of a Yorkshire terrier named Sonny. For more information, please visit: www.YourLocalGospelNetwork.com and we are also on Facebook as well at www.facebook.com/YourLocalGospelNetwork.
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“
10 Reasons to be Generous” by Mandy Woodhouse
“10 Reasons to be Generous”
any point across. I write this article because I know that everyone is on a journey when it comes to understanding and overcoming their own flesh, and I believe that God has given me understanding to help anyone with the issue of generosity, no matter the place they are at.
Generosity: (noun) - readiness or liberality in giving; freedom from meanness or smallness of mind or character.
Having said this, I present to you what I believe God gave me as 10 Reasons to Be Generous (in no particular order):
Sometimes in the past I felt as if I had to almost beat my human flesh in order to be generous. Does anyone else know what I mean? I hate that part of my old, selfish nature which inflames my pride and fear and makes a thousand and one excuses as to WHY I cannot be generous. I see it in other people, too, especially as I work in advocacy for both the homeless and international child sponsorships. People are always so quick to pat a person on the back for their good works for the Lord, but their own flesh holds them back from being free enough to actually give of something themselves.
You can be generous because Isaiah 58 and Isaiah 61 explain that not only is it God’s heart to give, but Isaiah 61 says that for a born-again Christian God gives us the “Spirit of the Sovereign Lord” BECAUSE He has called us to do good works! We can give because if it is His heart to give, He will empower us to do so. A reason to be generous is because it is the RIGHT THING TO DO. What exactly the “right thing” is for each of us individually is not relative, nor is it a “Christian” ideal. Nearly every world religion condones helping another human. No matter what big words one may use to frame it…GIVING (financially, time, resources or even just a smile to someone who is down) is the RIGHT THING TO DO. Another reason to give is because when you give, your world is enlarged. Period. When you give, you get your eyes off of yourself and off of your own problems and issues.
The idea of generosity has been stewing in me for some time because of my own selfish nature and my own reluctance to give at times. Working in urban ministry this past year has given me insight into both the reality of what generosity does for another human being, but also what my own flesh lacks without the power and love of Jesus working through me. I am not a fan of guilt trips, and I find manipulation a poor and tasteless tactic to get
(Continued on page 25)
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When you give, you influence and inspire others around you (even non-directly) to GREATNESS in their own lives! Giving (time, resources, a smile, money) and the process of giving changes YOUR heart. Being generous means that there is more to this life than our own selfish desires. You give because you can. EVERYONE has something to give. “Giving” is not just necessarily a monetary term. You give because YOU are the answer to someone else’s prayer. The most obvious reason to be generous is because there is NEED. You cannot just close your eyes and make it go away. Corporations, developers and organizations cannot starve the homeless out of a city and think the problem of homelessness will go away. Businessmen cannot just turn off the TV whenever a commercial comes on advertising poverty, and we cannot possibly believe that we can avoid the current world issues if we do not ever read the newspaper. There is always NEED.
begin or who will even back her. I give my time and prayers because in South Carolina alone, the number of kids who fail the LEAP test in 3rd grade and end up dropping out of school to become criminals is sickening. I give a warm smile because there are miserable women and men at my local grocery stores who just need a smile to get through the day. I give my encouragement, prayers and even money because my best friend Lori and her family show kindness to the city’s most unloved, and they just cannot continue to do it on their own. Perhaps most importantly for a Christian, I give of myself because Christ’s love COMPELS me. I am generous because Jesus FIRST GAVE to me. And I give because I never know whose prayers I may have just answered. After all, “We can’t do everything, but we must do something” –Hillsong Church, Sydney Australia.
So why do I give? Even in reviewing my own answers, I realize that Jesus has grown in me so much just in this past year! I give spare change because my friend in Nevada has been handing out socks to the homeless in Las Vegas for months now, out of his own pocket because the local charities are too busy to help. I give my time because there are 50+ people in my own hometown who are literally sleeping under people’s houses along the train-tracks. I give my advocacy and prayers because there are hundreds of people living under bridges in New Orleans, LA. I give my money and passion because there are literally millions of orphaned and needy children around the globe who need a sponsor so that they can get education, medical help and a nice meal. I give my prayers and encouragement because my friend Angie’s heart is captured by the atrocities of the sex-slave trade, and she has no clue where to 25
WAKE UP GOD’S CHILDREN Wake up God’s children to a brand new day; wake up God’s children in a spirited way. Take a step that brings joy to you by sharing amongst others a way to renew, whether tiny steps to rekindle or something brand new, liven the spirit by beginning each day fresh and anew. When the minutes become stagnant and you reach for more, seek and you shall find the answers the good Lord has in store. One-by-one take the minutes to enjoy the loving magic of words the Lord has provided, as in these words you and your paths will never become divided. They will embrace and guide you to compelling heights; with this freshness so alive and so new you can not help but share the new found glories given you. Whether in the light of the sun or dark corner you sit, an awakening of the spirit is certain to edify and uplift as your being beckons to the hand of the Holy One. You will not be long in darkness as the Lord does not stay away from rejuvenating spirit in a very satisfying way. It could be in a longawaited answer that comes in the night, it could be in the smile of a stranger who is closely within sight. It could come out of generosity silently extended from another good soul who refreshingly and miraculously ignites a glow so delightful and pleasing that you can not help to hope will consistently sow. Yes, the Lord will lift you in his time and in his way with resolve and peace; make certain to embrace the words so vital and keen; for with His instruction you as a child of God will exemplify Wake Up God’s Children which in itself is truly pristine.
Heidi Maria Schilling 26
BREAK OUT of your shell One often doesn’t know their strength until they are in a challenge. We often question where that spurt of boldness came from? What would have destroyed us in the past doesn’t even make us flinch in our current state. WHAT happened to the person who was once scared of their own shadow? What ever became of the person who only glimpsed at themselves in the mirror, afraid to look deep in the eyes staring back at them?
LIFE happened, but more importantly MATURITY happened. You became uncomfortable in your safe zone and now its cramping your style. Like a baby in a mothers womb, it outgrew the place that was “holding them hostage” and if it didn’t immediately find a way out, death would occur. With or without the permission of the one who’s womb it was residing in, a decision was made to BREAK OUT.
Many women have had that same experience; being held hostage to their past mistakes and misfortunes. Imprisoned by others perceptions and bound to dysfunctional relationships. No longer content with living beneath their means, refusing to accept a mediocre life they create signs and symptoms stating they DESIRE MORE. Resistance and denied access is to be expected from people and things that were COMFORTABLE with one being enslaved to confinements that prevent growth and expansion. However one must not be passive and ask permission in their urgent state to obtain freedom, it must be obtained by any means necessary.
cate it. One often wonders how that little egg could have contained that MASS substance. Not only has the shell been broken to provide an exit for the content to be released it is severely damaged to the extent that it can not be placed back together again.
YOU are the MASS PURPOSED substance that can no longer be held captive by life’s circumstances. You’ve been nurturing your purpose to the point of expansion and it demands to be released. You’ve attempted several times to escape by telling people your dreams and aspirations. You’ve even took a few risks to see if you had what it took. Now, that fire that burns inside of you is an inferno about to cause serious damage to your life if it is not released. YOU HAVE TO BREAK OUT OF YOUR SHELL. Everything you need is already deposited on the inside of you. Once you determine you want to Explore all that you can be, then go after it at all cost, knowing it will hurt at times but is well worth the results. Embrace your uniqueness and don’t be afraid to live life RADIKALLY! Why settle for flying when you were born to SOAR! Don’t be afraid to IGNITE your PASSION, allow it to EXPLODE in every environment you come in contact with & NEVER be afraid to LIVE LIFE RADIKALLY-Lady Di
When a baby chick hatches, it begins by trying to shake itself free in the egg that is imprisoning it. When nothing is produced from that method it starts kicking and pecking from the inside until it begins cracking away at its barriers. Once the shell has been weakened and cracked , the baby chick continues to hit at those spots until it can free itself. The chick that is manifested is beyond bigger than the egg that attempted to suffo27
Debt
Ceiling
Who cares about the debt ceiling? You should. As an
wisdom with our own? We are advised to stay out of
American and a Believer there are events taking place in
debt and to be the lender and not the borrower so how
the financial world that are affecting areas ranging from
did we become seduced into abandoning those princi-
st
employment to retirement. August 1 of this year
ples. I am not implying that it is a sin to borrow. Even
marked the day the United States raised the debt ceiling
the bible records a woman instructed to “borrow” ves-
to avoid defaulting on their loans. This isn’t the first
sels. The problem occurs when we start to believe bor-
time the debt ceiling has increased; in fact it’s been
rowing is the only way instead of just a way. If we can
raised 74 times since 1962. The media may make it
extend our faith for God to grant us favor for loan ap-
sound more sophisticated by mentioning things like
provals, imagine the wisdom we could receive if He who
GDP or budget and trade deficits. But in layman’s terms
owns the cattle on a thousand hills gave us the instruc-
the country is borrowing more than it can afford to pay
tion we need to live debt free and in abundance. It is
back. Sound familiar?
possible, as a matter of fact it’s promised to us. It begins with us asking ourselves individually and as a nation
Our culture has made debt seem automatic when it
“Do we want to raise our debt ceiling again?”
comes to financing things like cars, houses, and even tuition. After all, who can afford to pay for such large
J.C. Stevenson
ticket items in cash? How would someone even accomplish such a task? Believe it or not the answer is not hard. In fact it’s a simple one, save and invest. I know there are readers who are probably thinking, “I’ve heard that speech before,” but allow me to share a different perspective. At a time when Egypt was viewed as a world power, famine was about to plague the land. Out of all of Pharaoh’s court, which today would be our governing bod-
J.C. Stevenson graduated with her B.S in finance from Florida
ies, no one knew what to do. No one except an ex-
State University and has spent almost a decade working in the
convict brought out of prison named Joseph. His solu-
financial industry. She advises numerous business owners on
tion to a nationwide problem was this, save and invest,
matters concerning increasing cash flow and sound money
20% to be exact. Now this may seem like a large per-
management. While licensed in the areas of insurance and
centage to some of us, but consider how much could be
investments J.C. is passionate about educating believers on implementing biblical principals in everyday finances.
saved if money used to pay for luxury items, that we’ve labeled necessities, went into a savings account that was actually used for savings. If God, who never changes, gave Joseph such insightful wisdom that saved a nation, why are we replacing His
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In This Moment When I need to really hear from God, I take a ride. I get in my car, turn off the radio, drive around aimlessly and talk to Him (yes, even with these gas prices). After I’ve thanked Him for life, health and strength, whined a little and complained a lot, I calm down and listen for his voice. I am aware enough to realize that the things I struggle with most, are actually figments of my imagination, like fear. At my worst, I fear things that haven’t happened, making things up in my mind as I go. It can be paralyzing. Knowing this is happening, however, doesn’t automatically stop it. I still have to work at it and I get very frustrated. So one day I asked for instruction in conquering this thing, once and for all. What I heard is this (and I’m paraphrasing since I can’t remember word for word): There is no ‘once and for all’. Live in the moment. Live consciously in the moment because within this moment, you have everything you need. When you feel fear rising up in any moment, make the decision in that moment to reject it. Do it again the next moment. And when you can do it for a few moments at a time, do it for a minute. An hour. A day. A week. A month. Making conscious, positive choices to love, forgive, believe, or whatever it is you need to heal, transforms you in each moment. Moments strung together transform your life. "If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment." - Marcus Aurelius Tracy R. Jolly is a freelance writer, author, blogger, sometimes poet and budding entrepreneur. She blogs at www.losingmymindfindingmyvoice.blogspot.com and can be reached via email at mindandvoice@gmail.com. Tracy R. Jolly
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Stop Casting Your Pearls Before Swine By Lee Williams
In life, we will encounter friends who are like rare gems. They are positive and encouraging. They are always willing to lend a hand or bend an ear. They are cool, but they aren’t patsies either. They will tell you the truth whether you want to hear it or not. But, when they deliver the message it’s done with a sense of compassion, humility and love. Then, there are those friends who are quite the opposite. These friends are negative, discouraging and argumentative. You never really know if you should call them friends, but you do so anyway out of habit or some sort of misguided obligation. Despite your better judgment, the so-called friendship continues. Until, one day, you come to the realization that it might be time to sever the relationship. It is a hard lesson to learn, but you must discover that some friendships are not supposed to last forever. They are only meant to last until you learn the lesson that God has for you. God could be trying to teach you humility or endurance, but what he would never do is force you to sacrifice your self-esteem, self-worth and selfconfidence for a relationship either platonic or romantic that is toxic. You know which relationships these are because they change something very unique about you. These are the friendships and relationships that leave you feeling empty, mentally drained, worn or used. If you find yourself, dread-
ing interaction with that person then that relationship has reached its peak. “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven,” Ecclesiastes 3:1. Therefore, if you find yourself pouring out all of this love and encouragement, or you find yourself offering time, advice, money, or anything of value, and that effort is not returned, then in essence, you are casting your pearls before swine. That goes against the word of God, and Jesus wants you to stop this behavior, immediately. “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you,” Matt. 7:6 God only wants the best for you, and he wants you to have healthy and balanced relationships that lift you up -- not tear you down. No matter how much we feel that we may hurt someone’s feelings, we must honor God’s word. Get the lesson and walk away. Don’t let unhealthy relationships keep you from the blessings God has in store for you. Keep your pearls for those who are worthy enough to receive them.
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Bold and courageous You've spread your wings With hope and joy Pink ribbons and things The epistle in your heart Is the song you sing Of Peace and Healing Upon your wing Your journal of dreams Freely flow into the sea You've got so much to live for Your best you long to be As your destiny awaits you The Hem of His garment Enfolds you true And a beautiful circle of butterfly hues On this path you've traveled far Your faith is the hope That makes you a star Your journey is over Silence surrounds you Your prayers have been answered You my dear friend Are a Breast Cancer Survivor. Written by Cynthia G. Boyer
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The Challenge of Being Still AND Knowing I am not one that does well with being still. I am a mover and a shaker, a person who likes to be active and busy. Having spent so many years in ministry without a lot of assistance means I have to become very adapt at many things, very quickly. I am almost always doing something because I do not like being idle. In the process of such a life, swamped with phone calls, due dates, articles and work to be written, letters to write, web work to develop, people to help, lessons to prepare, sermons to draft, books to finish…and even more than this, I have developed a literal spirituality where I am constantly “praying without ceasing,” as written in 1 Thessalonians 5:18. I am always talking to God, thinking of God, and listening for His Word to me. I do not like to miss God in anything, so I seek Him in everything. In not doing well with being still, it is very difficult for me to rest. I am constantly thinking, even when I am supposed to be sleeping. I even talk in my sleep, trying to debate and work out problems. I have had many people tell me I am even teaching in my sleep. It is difficult for me to see things that happen to the church and not be grieved by them, not understanding why people don’t have God’s revelation and do not understand the clarity of His Word. While I am thankfully, past the point where I take such confrontations or issues personally, I am not to the point where I cannot see beyond any personal attack to the inherent problems the false heresies proclaimed by others affect the church. This is a serious issue in covering, especially given the fact that we do not want to let people run wild with winds of doctrine. Much of my time is spent in a life
of apologetics and education, thinking and functioning with every thought for the Lord and His truth. And…I think and pray about it, constantly. Sometimes, it is exhausting. Then I am confronted with two very powerful realities that sometimes every one of us – even those who are the most profound, most diligent, and most dedicated – need to hear. Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.” Hmmm. I know that He is God. The fact that He is God is my very life and ministry. But the “be still” part? That doesn’t come quite so easily. In seeing this verse, however, I recognize the command can’t be taken at half a word. It says to “be still AND know,” not just be still…or just know. Being still AND knowing He is God represents a powerful balance in the life of the believer…and a powerful way to hear from God in our everyday lives. Certain religious groups have “be still” down really, really well. They will sit and meditate for hours…not moving…not distracted…in strange and funny positions that look extremely uncomfortable. They seek to center themselves by thinking about nothing, focusing on singular phrases or riddles and attempting to attain a new level of enlightenment. While they know how to “be still,” they do not know He is God. Many of these systems deny the existence of a Creator and totally reject the idea of God. Their meditations do not seek to bring them closer to God, but to a greater awareness of themselves and of mysteries of the universe. They have mastered stillness in every position under the sun, (Continued on page 33)
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but reject the balance because they do not know God. Christians today aren’t good at “being still.” I would like to believe the majority of believers have the second part, “Know He is God” down pat, but I know better. A major reason why we do not know He is God is because we are never still. We are so busy jumping up and down, “amen-ing” everything the preacher says, and wanting to run around the room that we miss essential instruction in Who God is and what believing in God is all about. In our strive to try and know God with enthusiasm, we are missing God because we can’t sit still. The Lord is dealing with me in the importance of finding that balance of “being still AND knowing He is God.” It is amazing what I learn when I sit still and listen. I find this to be so true in my prayer life as well as in a church setting. Apostle or not, I am forever learning and receiving the Lord’s revelation. If I am to hear the Lord, that means I need to stop talking. I need to be still, so as not to miss His move in my life. Sometimes I think we surround ourselves with noise and business so as to miss God’s Word because we are afraid we do not want to hear it. It is easy to be noisy; it takes discipline to be silent. The church today could benefit from such a discipline. I am not suggesting we have to sit mute in church, but we can’t let our enthusiasm drown out the Word proclaimed. I have offended preachers of recent because I am not jumping out of my seat over every word that they say. I simply respond, “If I am jumping and yelling, I can’t hear what you are saying. I do not like to miss revelation because I am being too emotional.” Some preachers are still offended, even after this explanation, because it seems to totally contradict how they believe the congregation should react to their preaching. We also must “be silent AND know He is God” to distinguish true preaching from false. A deeply emotionally charged message can easily disguise false doctrine. If we are busy looking for emo-
tional cues rather than the true Word, we will not be “knowing God.” How are you on “being still AND knowing?” In a world of technological buzzes, phones ringing at all hours, email, internet social networks, family distractions, computers, televisions, fax machines, Bluetooth’s, instant messaging, and more – it is easy to not “be still AND know God.” With all these distractions, the enemy knows how easy it is to swoop in, feed our minds with nonsense, and send us chasing after roads that lead to nothing but destruction. It is time for us to grow up, BE STILL AND KNOW! Emerson once said, “Let us be silent that we may hear the whisper of God.” There is peace in silence, revelation in silence, truth in silence. I want to hear that whisper of God, uncontaminated, not competing with anything else in my time and space. I am learning to be still in a deeper sense than ever before. I am learning to be silent, that I may hear the whisper of God, and receive His revelation without distraction.
Apostle Dr. Lee Ann B. Marino, Ph.D., D.D. Apostle In Office Apostolic Fellowship International Ministries P.O. Box 935 Cary, North Carolina 27512 USA Website: www.powerfortoday.org Email: info@powerfortoday.org (919) 397-9122 © 2011 Lee Ann B. Marino
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Awaken From Your Illusions and Seek God! By Sakinah Salley Luke 21:29-38 NIV 29.He told them this parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. 31. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32."Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 33. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 34."Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. 35. For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. 36. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man." 37. Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.
off into the “fantasy world” can be easy to do instead of dealing with the reality of things. Having an illusion can be tricky and can cause one to believe those things that aren’t so true. For instance, if one wishes that they could be like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz and go to a “far place from home” they would be day dreaming an illusion. In reality we all know that neither the Wizard of Oz nor this “far place from home” is real but with enough thought this fantasy will seem to be a real place to you. We all have wished that there was a faraway place, or even a world full of candy, or no sorrow or pain but in reality all these things aren’t true. Think about how many times you
Have you ever been in deep thought and you
have believed things that weren’t true were
were thinking so hard that everything around
true? Did you convince yourself because you
you seemed to not exist or be the least of
perceived it one way that any other way was
your problems? Thinking in deep thought can
wrong? Did the way you perceived this no-
cause one to daydream and even fantasize
tion (concept) seem right when all along it
about things that don’t exist or aren’t even
was totally wrong? Let’s picture it-if God was
true.
to paint a picture of everything that he had ever mentioned in the Bible about his return
According to studies illusions distort the
would you believe it. Would you believe what
truth and make fantasies seem like reality.
you saw or would you perceive something
The human brain may daydream about
else causing you to not believe what God
things that aren’t true sometimes making it
showed you. Tricky isn’t it but this is how a
hard to focus and switch gears getting back
lot of Christians have been hypnotized by the
to reality. It’s like being in a board meeting
lies of this world.
that’s boring and as a result you begin to daydream. Before you know it everything
What we’re seeing right now seems like God
that you heard, those things in between and
isn’t in control but actually this is all a part of
afterwards have been lost, you have drifted
his plan. We shouldn’t be shocked by the
off into space to think on other things. Depending on the setting that you’re in, drifting
(Continued on page 35)
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painting we see on the easel when Christ
off to another place to think about something
turns the picture around to show us his fin-
other than the troubles of life go where God
ished touches. He has given us warning and
is. In that hidden place you will find strength,
scripture to back up what will transpire before
peace, joy get whatever you need to keep
he returns so why are we afraid? Imagine
sane in God. The Bible says “whatever is true,
your reaction how would you feel, and what
whatever is noble, whatever is right, what-
would you do as a result of what you just
ever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is
saw. Snap out of it and recognize what God is
admirable—if anything is excellent or praise-
doing! His purpose long ago was to bring us
worthy—think about such things” (Philippians
to this very moment today-choosing where
4:8) set your mind to focus only on those
we would be either blinded by the lies of what
things that matter. Stop daydreaming and
we see now or boldly recognizing what God is
start seeking God when you do what you see
doing in spite of. The picture has been
will be different and will cause you believe
painted and the Word of God is our proof that
just who what God promised.
God has given us warning of what we’re seeing today. See the bigger picture not just the beautiful side of the painting. God is still in control and has a mighty plan!
Sakinah Salley
Jesus in Luke 22 warned his disciples to keep watch of the time and his return-he told them what was going to transpire and it was up to them to see the bigger picture. Although that was over 2,000 years ago that Christ spoke that truth to his disciples the same thing still remains for today. Christ is coming again and we must watch for his return-we should be working faithfully on the tasks he has given us waiting patiently for him to come and receive us as his bride. Don’t waste time daydreaming or doubting when he’ll come just be ready when does. May the illusions and burdens of everyday life not cause you to miss out on God because the picture he has painted is His hope for us not to ignore it. Hold on to what God has said, shown you and from this place seek God -don’t miss him in this hour but seek after him. Even when you can’t find him keeps seeking and he will come find you. If you drift 35
Sow Good The seeds you sow, You shall also reap. They may take many days to return, And present themselves at your feet. Whether they be in brush or briar In thicket or mane, Whatever you plant in your life’s garden Be willing to maintain. Sow good seeds. Sow in fertile soil. So that you may reap bountifully Even during the days of turmoil. Sow good seeds Into good ground, And you can expect a good harvest When they come back around. They may not always return as they were sown. But when they return, it will be known. You planted, Another watered, and God gave increase All for your willingness to sow good seeds. Carlet Horne
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It’s Not Enough To Survive Amy Clayton It has been my life’s experience that it is not enough to just survive. It has been proven in the Word of God Jesus said, “I come that they have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10) Some of us are living beneath the benefits that come with being a child of God. Life has a way of placing us in situations that make us believe that it is okay to just survive. There is no victory in our survival, if we are still dragging the baggage that we carried into or that was handed to us in the midst of our mess. Our goal should be not only to survive but to thrive. Our goal should be to make sure we do not come away looking like, smelling like, or talking like the thing we survived. Just because the relationship left us feeling empty, hurt and insignificant, that doesn’t mean that it is true. We are who God says we are. The Word of God has giving us the authority, the promise and the means to come through all of life’s trials thriving. We serve a God that we can have confidence in His ability, confidence of His presence and confidence of His power. In the book of Daniel Chapter 3 Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego found themselves in quite a predicament. A predicament not of their own making, one created because of the insecurity of a king. King Nebuchadnezzar did not feel his position as king allowed him the opportunity to be worshipped. So the king built a statue of himself and commanded the people bow down and worship the statue. The king wanted to be worshipped as a god. Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego along with Daniel were sent to work at the palace. The three boys were Hebrew they had been raised to know the laws of God. They knew the law that states, “thou shall not bow down thyself to them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God.”(Exodus 20:5) They knew to break that law was to interrupt their relationship with the only God they would worship. Their refusal to bow caused them to be taken before the king. The three young men had become very prominent. Because of their success jealousy sprang up among some of their peers. Everyone around you is
not happy that you are blessed. Be careful of your surroundings and the people in your circle, everyone that cries friend is not a friend. Jealousy can cause people to do some bad things. Their love for God and a desire to stay in relationship with Him they are exposed as traitors to the king. The punishment for their crime was to be placed “bound into the midst of the fire”. (Daniel 3:24) The furnace was heated seven times hotter than normal. How many of us know the enemy likes to turn the heat up on our situations. Just when you thought the situation couldn’t get any worse the bottom falls out. Just when you thought that child would begin to act a little better, they seem to turn into a demon. Just when you thought your job was getting better the boss tells you there is going to be a lay off. Just when… Just when you thought your relationship was getting better, the divorce decree comes in the mail. The king’s intention was to make an example of Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego. The men faced their situation with confidence, “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.”(Daniel 3:17) Life is full of unknowns, the outcome of any given situation is a mystery, however, God’s ability is a constant. There is a lesson to be learned from their confidence in God’s ability. Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego knew the king would uphold the decree to place them in the fire. They knew anyone that had been placed in the fire did not survive. That had every right to be afraid instead they chose to trust in God’s ability. It should be easy to place trust in a God that told Abraham, “is there anything to hard for God.” Why is it hard for us to place our trust in Him? Is our lack of confidence in God due to our lack of relationship with Him? The boys knew the stories of how God had delivered the Israelites (Continued on page 38)
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from Egypt, they knew the stories of how God had
began in you.
brought them through the desert, delivered them from
Finally, the three knew that God has the power to de-
their enemies and delivered them into the promise land.
liver. “He is able to deliver us from the burning fiery fur-
They knew that God was able to do anything “but fail”.
nace; and he will deliver us out of thine hand.” (Daniel
They had enough confidence in His ability to believe even
3:17) It is a wonderful thing to serve an “all powerful
if we die God is still able. I will trust in God’s ability
God.” Because we have been in the fire we do not have
above everything. Any situation we face we must have
to come out smelling like smoke. Our lives my enter pe-
confidence in God’s ability. His ability to do whatever is
riods of turmoil but we do not have to come away look-
best for us and whatever will bring Him Glory. Our faith
ing like what we just left. If the situation was consumed
in God is what moves God. Our faith in His ability is what
with anger, hurt and bitterness we do not have to come
will cause His movement on our behalf. His movement
out behaving the same way. Notice the three Hebrew
will bring us deliverance, His movement removes the
boys were in a furnace, they should have come out
sting out of the situation and His movement will give us
smelling like smoke their clothes singed and covered in
the grace to endure. Jesus said, “lo I am with you always,
soot. According to the word of God, “upon whose bodies
even until the end of the world.”(Matt 28:20) That is our
the fire had no power, nor was a hair of their head was
assurance, God will be with us. Three men were placed
singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell
in the fire much to the king’s amazement he saw four
of fire had passed on them.” (Dan 3:27) We have been
men. “I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the
promised victory. Victory over the enemy and all his de-
fire.”(Daniel 3:25) Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego
vices, we have to learn to walk in our victory. The fire
knew God would be there with them, even in the fire.
had no power over the three boys and neither does your
With that assurance they faced their situation with confi-
situation have power of you. The only power your situa-
dence and did not waiver in their faith. Facing adversity
tion has is the power that you give it. Know where your
with confidence is the key to getting through any situa-
strength lies and trust in Him. He is the source of all
tion. Isolation is a tool used by the enemy. If the enemy
strength.
can convince you that no one understands and no one cares you are less likely to have hope in a positive out-
God has promised us a life filled with His presence, “He is
come. God sent his Son to give us the confidence that
not a man that He should lie.”(Numbers 23:19) Our God
there is nothing that we will face in our lives that He will
is a great God and He is able, He is willing and He will
not be aware of. That alone gives us reason to have
deliver you out of your situation. The power belongs to
hope. Hope that the God of all creation is with us. Three
Him and Him alone, place yourself in His hands and trust
men entered the fire bound. Some situations are meant
Him to handle it. Our God loves us so much and has
to bind you, to keep you from completing the task God
made it His business that we not only survive but we
has set before you. “If the Son therefore shall make you
thrive. According to Webster’s dictionary thrive means
free, ye shall be free indeed.”(John 8:36) According to
“to grow luxuriantly; flourish.” (Webster, 1998) Stop liv-
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think to-
ing beneath your God given right, begin to thrive in the
ward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of
midst of your circumstances. Don’t allow your circum-
evil, to give you an expected end,” God has a plan for
stances to define you, you define it. Consider your cir-
your life. Trails come only to perfect what God has
cumstances as a stepping stone, to get you to the place
started in you. All God requires of us is faithfulness and
in God that He ordained. He has the ability, He is with
obedience. Stay the course, no matter what obstacles
you and most of all He has the power to deliver you. Him
come your way, know that God has a plan, God is able
to handle it. Our God loves us so much and has made it
and He is with you. He will complete the work that He
His business that we not only survive but we thrive. According to Webster’s dictionary thrive means “to grow 38
luxuriantly; flourish.” (Webster, 1998) Stop living beneath your God given right; begin to thrive in the midst of your circumstances. Don’t allow your circumstances to define you, you define it. Consider your circumstances as a stepping stone, to get you to the place in God that He ordained. He has the ability, He is with you and most of all He has the power to deliver you .
BUT GOD Man said I can't But God said I can Man said no But God said yes Man said you failed But God said you're a winner Man said you're last But God said you are first Man said tomorrow But God said today Man said don't believe But God said only believe Man said fall down But God said stand up Man said you are poor But God said you are rich Man said pay now But God said I've already paid the price Man said you are weak But God said you are strong Man said turn around But God said move forward Man said I'm sick But God said " I am healed Man said be proud But God said stay humble Man said it is dark But God said " I am the light" Man said maybe But God said But God said " let there be" Man said But GOD spoke, and it HAPPENED Genesis 1:3 And God said, let there be light; and there was light Min Cheryl Thomas © 2000
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LORD, DO IT AGAIN! When going through tough times just like David, we have to encourage ourselves in the Lord by speaking His words over ourselves. God never wanted us to be consumed by the things of this world but we are to cast all of our cares, worries, and concerns upon Him for He cares for us. Every detail of what we go through be it small or big God cares. Actually the trials that we go through seem so great because we magnify the insignificant mole hill to a giant-sized mountain. BUT God declares in His word, "is anything too hard for the Lord?" Genesis 18:14
again' because they trusted that you would catch them and they had no fear of falling or getting hurt. You've just come out of one trial successfully and now you're going through financial difficulty, relational upsets, or an unexpected health issue. But can you think back on a similar situation in which God brought you out? I challenge you to say right now to Abba Father, 'you've brought me through before, Lord, do it again!'
Just imagine, God favored Abraham and Sarah to conceive a child in their old age at the set time. That was possible with God then and He is still well able to do what seems impossible in our lives right now. On last week I came upon what presented as an impossible situation stacked against my son. He was in a classroom that I did not feel was going to challenge him academically or be a sound structured environment. I stayed calm, remained at peace, prayed and watch God do a one day turn around. My son started a new school on this week and stated "this was the fresh start I needed." Now looking back I see the hand of God in everything that transpired for the good. Do all of your tests or my tests pass that quickly? No, because to be candid there have been times in my life when I immediately rehearsed the problem. Yet when I come to myself I reverse the curse and began speaking the Word which is the solution to every pain, hurt, obstacle, and challenge. Imagine if the release of the concern we have in our lives were given to the Lord quickly and completely. With you and I allowing him to speak to our hearts and move according to how He leads in the situation who knows how quickly some of the storms in our lives could just simply pass over. Yes, the challenge is to trust that God can do a much better and thorough job with our issues than we can.
Lord, we're standing still, watching, waiting, and allowing you Lord to fight every one of our battles. Casting all of our cares one by one on you Lord and trusting...not that you will work it out..but, that its already done! We're just waiting on the manifestation of breakthrough. And that particular enemy we will see no more forever!! in Jesus name, thank you Lord. “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Exodus 14:13-14 Are you holding onto something that the Lord should be carrying for you? Or right now are you letting go of that thing so that God can reach out and rescue you? If you're ready right now, say, Yes Lord I'm releasing all to you. You healed me before, you blessed me before, you opened doors before, you brought me out before...Lord, do it again, right now, in Jesus name, thank you Lord! Blessings, Lauretha Ward
Let's take our eyes off of our situation right now and declare that God is so much greater. And greater is He who is us than he who is in the world. Remember how you would toss a child in the air and he/she would say 'do it 40
can exist in the stomach. It also contains a number of antioxidants, including anthocyanins, polyphenols and tannins. Antioxidants protect against free radicals, which are normally are associated with causing a number of health problems, including prostate, lung and breast cancers.
Pomegranate: A Highly Prized Fruit By Kaysha Sahai
Pomegranate juice is often used to treat diarrhea and to help control blood glucose levels in diabetics. It also demonstrates the ability to prevent and reverse atherosclerosis, or the build-up of plaque on artery walls. According to a study conducted in Israel in 2004, drinking one glass of pomegranate juice in concentrated form per day for the course of a year can reduce cholesterol. While there are many potential benefits associated with the pomegranate fruit, there are also some risks. Some people have an allergic reaction to the fruit and it is also known to interact with some medications. Therefore, if you are currently on any type of medication, be sure to consult with your doctor prior to starting a regular regimen of pomegranate juice.
Photo Credit: Mariano Heluani | Dreamstime.com
My grandfather had a huge pomegranate tree in the front of his yard when I was younger. My sister, cousins and I would always be so fascinated by this tree that bore so much that it would fill the entire area underneath the tree. Each time I cut opened the pomegranate to eat, it was like I was hoping to learn something new about this unique fruit. Little did I know that the pomegranate was considered such a powerhouse fruit! Like the apple, the benefits of eating it or drinking the juice of the pomegranate seed, are numerous. The value of the pomegranate can be traced back to Biblical times. For instance, in the book of Joel, when Judah was invaded by a horde of locusts, which eventually destroys everything; the Prophet Joel, in an effort to describe the extent of the devastation, mentions the most valuable trees and crops that were destroyed. Among them were the fields of grains (a staple food in those times) and of course the apples and pomegranate trees:
Kaysha currently serves as a Freelance Writer, Author and Artist. She is also a Biblical Health Coach with Meditation Teacher Training. She is the author of the book: The Biblical Path to Wellness: A Simple Guide to Achieving Balance in Your Life. You may visit her website at http:// www.thebiblicalpathtowellness.com
"The vine has dried up, and the fig tree has withered; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree— All the trees of the field are withered; surely joy has withered away from the sons of men."- Joel 1:12 (NKJV)
Pomegranate is a small tree with a light brown bark, red buds, young shoots and small evergreen leaves. The tree blooms large attractive orange-red flowers. The fruit itself is very large, crowned with a calyx and contain numerous seeds in juice containing sacs. The juice has a number of medicinal properties. Drinking the juice of the pomegranate has been shown to have antimicrobial properties against harmful bacteria that 41
Heavenly Father
Heavenly Father, The Greatest In The Land. He Has All Power, Within His Mighty Hands. He Sits High On The Throne, But Forever Looks Low. He Comes To The Rescue In A Hurry, He's Never Slow. He Knows Our Wants, And Provides Our Needs. He Loves Us Dearly, For We Are His Seeds. For His Children There's Nothing Good He Will With Hold. He's Gone Away To Prepare A Place, For Our Eternal Soul. We Honor And Reverence Him For His Sacrifice. For Giving Of Himself, To Offer Eternal Life. By His Precious Blood, We're Given The Salvation Plan. Glory To The Heavenly Father, The Greatest In The Land.
Glory To God. Š 2011
Minister Tony Rowsey
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Inspired Words to Uplift and Edify the Spirit http://www.Divineinspirationsmagazine.com
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