JUNE 2020
A LESSON IN CHAMPIONSHIP
AN ACCIDENTAL
MASTERPIECE
REAL MEN CRY! PASTOR
LAMONT PIERCE An
INCONVENIENT
truth
The MAN The MYTH The MISSION
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From the editor
Greetings! Welcome to Summer folks!
It’s finally here and sunshine and sand are the order of the day! Currently, we are experiencing a great deal of turmoil and uncertainty in our nation. While the COVID19 quarantine is being lifted in several states to level one, racial unrest and violence is escalating at an alarming rate. Police brutality has captured news media across the board and protests are abounding around the globe. WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE! EDITOR-IN CHIEF PATRICIA A. BUNTON
We must remain level-headed and stay focused as tensions rise and fear runs rampant. Embracing and loving one another is truly the answer to maintaining an atmosphere peace and solidarity. We have a responsibility as citizens and believers to hold those accountable who insist on promoting and supporting injustice in our land. There is hope for the future in the eyes of the faithful that “God’s got this too.” So go ahead fire up that grill, pull out those steaks, burgers and hot dogs and let’s enjoy the time that we have been given. Go to the beach, enjoy the sunshine with family and friends while you can because tomorrow is not promised! Remember to love on each other, pray for each other, and trust God for the rest! Be Inspired… Faith Works
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CONTENT PUBLISHED BY Faith Works Production EDITOT-IN-CHIEF Patricia A. Bunton STAFF WRITERS Clyrese Minor Tamara Gregory Marci Bryant Dr. Heather Tucker CONTIBUTORS Don Bunton, Jr. Colleen Wheller Pastor Forrest Moore LAYOUT//DESIGN Rhyan Pierce Fatimah PHOTOGRAPHY Jaymia Benson
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FROM THE EDITOR...........................................................1 CONTENTS.......................................................................2 THE PROFESSIONAL MOTIVATOR.....................................4 A LESSON IN CHAMPIONSHIP..........................................6 AN ACCIDENTAL MASTERPIECE.....................................7-8 GUESS YOUR BEST – CROSSWORD PUZZLE.......................9 MEASURE OF YOUR FAITH.............................................10 SPOTLIGHT ON GREATNESS – “THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MISSION” (LAMONT PIERCE SR)................................................11-14 POETRY SPEAKS – STRENGTH.........................................15 KOFFEE KORNER - REAL MEN CRY..................................18 BLACK LIVES MATTER – IN MEMORY OF GEORGE FLOYD & AHMAD AUBERRY.............................20 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE - INTRODUCTION....................21-30 SUMMER FASHION 1.....................................................22 SUMMER FASHION 2.....................................................23 SUMMER FASHION 3 ....................................................24 SUMMER FASHION 4.....................................................25 SUMMER TABLE SETTING 1 ...........................................26 SUMMER TABLE SETTING 2 ...........................................27 SUMMER FOOD CORN...................................................28 SUMMER FOOD KABOBS...............................................29 SUMMER FOOD BERRY CAKE ........................................30 THE CORONAVIRUS IN IT’S SPIRITUAL CONTEXT............31 MAGAZINE SUBSCRITION PRICING.................................36 QUEEN’S CORNER..........................................................37 LET THE HEALING BEGIN................................................38 NOT BY CHANCE, NOT ORDINARY, NOT THE NORM........39 SONSHIP FATHERING AND THE JOURNEY OF BECOMING – THE BLESSING OF LEGACY....................40 SEEDS OF GLORY............................................................43 3 SECRETS THAT WILL HELP PIVOT YOU INTO YOUR DESTINY......................................................45
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PATRICIA A. BUNTON
My desire is to INSPIRE…YOU! Motivational Coaching for INDIVIDUALS. Motivational Speaking for GROUPS. (organizations, churches, corporations) Motivational Training for LEADERS. VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE.
Give yourself the opportunity to be GREAT! WANT TO LEARN HOW TO:
• Overcome your Fears. • Eliminate Self-Sabotage. • Embrace and Cultivate your Potential. • Identify and Eliminate Hindrances, Pitfalls and Roadblocks to your Success. • Harness and Effectively Market the Power of YOU.
PROVIDING SUCCESS READINESS Are you ready to make the commitment to Your Success? Now is the time and this is your opportunity to invest in your success.
CONTACT ME TODAY! AND LET’S GET THE MOMENTUMSTARTED NOW! Phone/Text: 205-239-9323 Email: dpbunton@aol.com
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THE FORUM RADIO TALK SHOW The goal of The Forum Talk Show is to provide a public medium whereby currently relevant and often controversial issues, ideas and views can be openly and freely exchanged between the host(s) and listening audience. Viewers are given the opportunity to respond to host views and opinions and freely express their own. Being forthright in our positions and opinions on topics, we seek to broaden our audience’s general knowledge and understanding relative to the issues being discussed, while bringing awareness to public interest questions and concerns on a personal, local and national level is our intent. The show is designed to be Informative, Enlightening and Entertaining.
You can also catch us on these platforms; Apple podcasts, Spreaker, Spotify, Google play and Castbox. HOST: PATRICIA BUNTON CO-HOST: Dawna Bunton
TUESDAYS 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
A Lesson in Championship By Tamara Gregory
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y daughter was already certain that she wanted pink, red, yellow, and white flowers in her garden. I supported her vision entirely. Each week was an opportunity to create a more vibrant space in her tiny garden.
We were super excited to find chrysanthemums (MUMS) in the garden section. Not only were they vibrant yellow but the foliage was full and lush and green. We spent time trying to find the plant that had the most flowers already bloomed as well as tiny buds that would bloom later. We wanted a rich full garden; not one that was sparse and bare. We finally found the perfect plant and was so in awe of her beauty, we decided to get another in a rich wine color to adorn our doorsteps. When we arrived home we potted, planted, fertilized, and watered the mums. Boy were they a sight to behold, big and bright and full of life. It was hard to imagine that such a tiny force of life could positively impact everything in its environment …but it did. As the days went on the flowers bloomed and continued to provide a warm welcome to us each day as well as anyone else that crossed our threshold. The yellow ones that we planted also thrived and seemed untouchable even by the slugs who chewed on whatever they wanted. My daughter took great pride in her garden and each morning as she left for school, would call out to her father “Make sure you water my flowers ok dad!” More than being in awe of this beautiful space we had created; it warmed my heart to see my beautiful one so delighted. I also loved the time we were able to spend weeding, tilling, and learning together. I looked around and declared, “This is good!” Even with all the admiration in the world, it takes more than mere satisfaction and flattery to sustain life. Two weeks later our beautiful chrysanthemums were completely blackened; the flowers had dried up and the leaves were burnt. It was a devastatingly, strange contrast; the foliage of the plant remained a bright rich green. It seemed so full of life and yet, all that it had once borne was dried up and dead. I wondered if it was because there was too much direct sunlight or if I had given it too much plant food. It was clear I did not know enough about this plant to try to save it. That day, I learned another especially important lesson from My Daughter’s Garden; continued growth requires wisdom over time and the desire to learn more than you already claim to know. A champion is one who has defeated or surpassed all odds; a survivor; a winner. After my mums’ unfortunate demise, I placed the ones in the pot in my backyard and decided I would later dig the ones from the garden up and place them in the garbage. I delayed my decision momentarily because, also planted with the mum were Spikes. In a thriving twist of irony, the thin almost dried blades of the spikes (which were half dead when we planted them) began to come alive and become green and stood tall and proud right there in that pot with my burnt Chrysanthemums. I had often passed by homes and admired the spikes in the floral arrangements of others. They were nothing but blades of grass. They do not color nor flower, but they bring an indescribable dynamic to the area in which they are planted. I had searched all our local nurseries in a bid to find them, but they were all sold out as it was so late in the season. I finally found one that
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appeared fit only for kindle but…the heart wants what it wants and so brown or not, it found a place in my home. As I said earlier, I placed the pot in my back yard and though I had already committed the mums to the graveyard, I didn’t want to uproot my spikes as it had been such a rare find, and so by default, they also were watered along with it. My mother has often said to me, when I was younger, “in the midst of life there is death.” I was finally able to see a real-life reference right there in My Daughters’ Garden. The spikes that were dead when planted and the flourish mums had traded places. Though the mums were dying, the spikes fought and succeeded in becoming alive. I am unsure which plant drew virtue from the other as there was a point when the both appeared to be dead, but they fought to thrive. A month later, as I observed the garden one morning before leaving for work, I noticed that the mums had two tiny green buds hidden among the blackened leaves and dead flower heads. Suddenly, I had a revelation. I asked my husband to pull off every blackened bud, flower, and leaf from those mums with the hope that perhaps new life would also spring up in that place. As I look at the picture laid before me …a pile of blackened matter on the ground with the occasional piece of greenery, I realized how easy it is to bury something that is not dead. I am reminded of a bible story of the bones of a prophet being thrown in a grave with other dead bones and those bones became alive. The question was asked “can these bones live?” and they did. Often, we have seen people written off (or may have been written off ourselves) because they have experienced rough times or may have been devastated to the point of being dried up with nothing left to give. Broken, crumbling people, discarded by those who have walked away without even a single second thought. Another lesson that I learned from My Daughter’s Garden is there is life within you yet. No matter the devastation, you are not dead. Allow no one (not even yourself) to bury you. No matter what happens to you, there must be a champion within you that must choose only to live. Fight! No matter the challenge, resist the urge to shrivel up and die. Surround yourself with light and life, draw close to those things and those people who are filled with nourishment and are willing to nurture you to thrive. Find yourself a spike to rest next to and draw virtue from it, as you wait to bear the fruit of life and show the world you are indeed A Champion once again.
AN ACCIDENTAL
Masterpiece By: Patricia A. Bunton
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eet fifteen-year old “custom sneaker designer” Emeka Wajed. Soon to turn sixteen in November, Emeka has been designing sneakers since 2013 when he was only thirteen years old. He resides in Buffalo, New York with his parents Alexa and Edreys and his older brother. He is currently an incoming sophomore in high school and is involved in three sports: soccer, basketball, and track where he runs the 800 efficiently. Emeka’s future dream is to be able to attend college on a sports scholarship. When asked how his sneaker design business came to be, he responded “My parents are artists, so it came to me naturally. Even though I had no prior art experience, I would look at the work of other sneaker artists who were an inspiration to me and then take old, beat up sneakers, and with no mock-up, designs would just come to me. I began designing old sneakers because I could not afford to purchase new ones. Eventually, I began painting with color on new shoes and started posting my designs
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on IG (Instagram). I could just look at shoe colors and know immediately what the design would be.” He stated that his target consumers are a mixture of his parent’s friends, IG and other people he knows. Emeka shared how he hopes to one day serve as an inspiration for other young people. His future goals include, expanding his online presence, as well as having his own clothing line and brick and mortar art studio. He looks forward to the freedom of being able to do his art his own way! He attributes much of his success to his parents who help him with things like pricing, his commissions, and management. He shared that they completely support him and his art. His short-term goal is to finish high school and attend college. He would love to attend Canisius college locally, but would also consider Yale, Chicago, and Brooklyn as possibly choices. He plans to continue in Studio arts with Sports as his core. In the mean- time, he continues to pursue his art and hopes to one day connect with Puma (he first started painting with them) as a possible sponsor, also Nike and other sports influencers. Emeka’s reply to the question “where do you see yourself in the next five years” was “I will be twenty-one, in college, not drinking, making more money and living comfortable”. IG @madebymek_
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GUESS YOUR BEST
Summer TIME WORD SEARCH
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Summer Time Fun! Seashell Pool Bar-b-cue Sand Swimming Ocean Lemonade Vacation Cookout Park Sunburn Travel Beach-house Tan Baseball Grill 9
THE MEASURE OF YOUR FAITH By: Clyrese E. Minor
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so love the story in (Luke 21:1-4) of the widow who sowed her last two mites in the offering. One of the reasons I admire her is because she sacrificed her own needs in order to obey the commandment to “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse” (Malachi 3:10). During the time in which she lived proper care was not given to widows. As a matter a fact, they were treated so badly that if they did not have any sons around to care for them, they were left extremely poor and neglected. The bible says that the only thing she had left in the world was those two mites and they were only equivalent to pennies. When I first read this story, I envisioned an old woman, hunched over, boldly making her way through the crowd of wealthy men to put her small change into the offering. Jesus saw her and called his friends the disciples over to behold and admire her great humility. He instructed them to watch this woman compared to all the other men and women who brought their offering to the temple. They proudly brought their offering to the treasury looking for praise, not from God, but from their peers. They wanted people to see that they were doing their part in the temple…showing off what they had with their fine clothes and expensive jewelry. While the woman who had nothing, gave her all and what she did was pleasing God. I also admire this widow because of her faith and trust that God would take care of her even if she gave her last. She seemed to understand the importance of covenantal giving. I imagine that she had moments where she became tired and wanted to just give up. However, regardless of everything that she was going through, she was determined to get up and make the journey to the temple to give her offering. While reading this story, I reflected on myself. I put myself in her shoes and evaluated my
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own heart and the way I give. There were moments during my financial struggles when I wanted to, and did at one point, give up trying. I asked myself why was I giving? Did I give out of obligation because I am a financial coach that teaches about tithes and offering? Or was I giving because it is what I was taught? I concluded that it was a little bit of both of those things. I asked God to give me a heart like this woman with the two mites. A heart that only wants to please Him, especially concerning money. In my years as a financial coach, I believe many of my clients have missed the point and the power of being a cheerful giver. I have heard people say things like, “I can’t afford to give,” or they will say, “I will give back when I can afford to.” Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” (KJV) Many millionaire unbelievers are following this principle before they pay all their bills. Their strategy for getting wealth is to pay themselves first, then they make donations, and lastly, they pay their bills. Through the law of reciprocity, they see a return on their giving. They reap the benefits of giving. In the book “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kyasoki, the rich dad paid himself first, then paid tithes and offering, and he donated to his favorite nonprofit. As a financial coach who teaches her clients to follow biblical principles in order to live the life of financial freedom the way the God ordained, I continue to encourage them to give God what he asks for, which is a tenth of your earnings, and donate to a nonprofit of your choice. He promised it will be given back to you. Do so freely without looking for the praises and admiration of the people around you like some of the wealthy men did during the widow’s times.
Spotlight on Greatness
“THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MISSION” By: Patricia Bunton
THE MAN
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hen Pastor Pierce was asked to share who he was, his first response was, “I am a black man”.
am today without her and the Lord. She has been the backbone of my success in recovery, the kingdom, and becoming a man of God.”
Pastor Lamont Pierce is married to his lovely wife of 29 years, Vashita Pierce. They actually met in college in 1989. He admits that when he first saw her, he knew immediately that she would be his wife. Pastor Vashita now co-pastors with him at New Life Christian Outreach in Dover, DE. With a huge smile on his face, he acknowledges the impact she has had on his life, stating “I wouldn’t be who I
He is the proud father of three wonderful adult children, Rhyan (19), Lamont Jr. (20), and Aziah (28), and grandfather of one granddaughter, Chloe (4), whom he adores and admits is the “apple of his eye”. Pastor Pierce was born and raised in Plainfield, New Jersey living in a singleparent home. As a young man, his goals
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and aspirations were to leave New Jersey and become successful or just to become somebody. Being the youngest of 4 children, he admits he was spoiled…so whatever he did not get from his parents, he got from his siblings. Though he grew up without his father in the household, he stated that his childhood was full of love and affection; “though we didn’t have a lot, we had everything that we needed”. As a child, he constantly struggled with peer pressure, yet he became involved in many different sports including football, basketball, baseball, and track & field. He often felt the need to be something that he wasn’t. Having grown up in a lowincome neighborhood, he was challenged by the racism he faced as a young black man attending a predominantly white school in an affluent neighborhood. According to Pastor Pierce, “I always dreamed of attending college”. After graduating high school, he went on to pursue his dream of attending college at Norfolk State University and studied Electrical Engineering. He is currently employed at First State Community Action Agency as a Project Coordinator/Trainer. In his position, he is afforded the opportunity to work with fathers, encouraging them to become engaged in their children’s lives. He also trains fathers as well as families on how to develop effective parenting skills. He enjoys coordinating the project initiatives that help families grow and thrive.
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THE MYTH
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n Pastor Pierce’s own words, “growing up, I didn’t believe pastors were real. I thought it was all just a show or acting and that they were always over exaggerating, so I often mocked them.” “I was addicted to heroin for 12 years. I started out with marijuana and eventually moved on to stronger drugs of which heroin became my drug of choice. I reached a point in my life where my addiction took over, and ultimately, I hit rock bottom. My marriage was in jeopardy, and I couldn’t keep a job. I simply wanted to be free from my addiction and found God in my struggle. I was called to be a pastor after I rededicated my life to the Lord. As I was serving and getting to know him, he spoke to me and said pastoring is what I was called to do.” “At first, I struggled because it wasn’t my desire to be a pastor. My dream was to serve God and not be addicted to Heroin or any other drugs. However, in the midst of serving, he captured my heart and I fell in love… THE END!” “I believe the misconception that much of society has is that we as pastors have it all together. The reality is, no one does, and we all have our struggles though it isn’t publicly shown. Daily, we are living and learning, striving to be like Christ just like the next man or woman. The responsibility of being a pastor is tremendous. The bible says, “to whom much is given, much is required”, so when God entrusts you to be a pastor, it’s a responsibility not to be taken lightly. The weight is heavy and sometimes even overwhelming, but God helps you to be able to withstand the pressures of what the call brings.”
“Being a pastor, one of the key things I have learned is no one is perfect, and no one has it all together. We are all pressing toward the mark of the higher
call. One of the things I realized as a pastor is…each and every day God changes me to be more like him. One of the myths that many people believe is, that a pastor is all knowing, and this is simply not true. The assumption that a pastor is perfect without spot, blemish or trouble, is not true. Although it may not be obvious, the struggle is real.” We are simply servants of God who have a specific call on our lives, we are just as human and fallible as anyone else. While He does call us to a higher standard, we blow it sometimes and fall short often. But for the grace of God, we too would be lost. “One of the major challenges I face as a pastor, is finding people who will consistently partner with and support the vision God has given me. The vision is so large and so vast, that it cannot be accomplished with my family alone. It takes people who are willing to buy in, partner, collaborate, and support financially, to bring it to pass. My responsibility first and foremost as a pastor… as a man, is to my family and the call of God on my life.” 13
THE MISSION
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hen asked about his mission, He shared the following, “I have been called to Dover, Delaware to pastor and encourage the people that God sends to New Life Christian Outreach. My responsibility is to train them, love them, and disciple them as they learn to be followers of Christ. This is accomplished through preaching and teaching the gospel and living a lifestyle that is a witness to them. It is my desire and vision that the church will continue to multiply and expand the kingdom. An additional part of my mission is to collaborate with other leaders throughout the nation and expand globally.” “It is my desire to train men up to become “Kingsmen” who are great 14
representatives of the king. I am also obligated to help those that are sick, suffering, and bound by drug addiction. I have been set free from the prison of addiction therefore, I have a passion to see others free from the bondage of drugs, alcohol, and other addictions. I believe by the grace of God, that he has equipped me to be successful in tending to the people that he has called me to.” In closing, Pastor Pierce shared one final thought; “I would not change my life in any way, I trust that which God has allowed in my life, to be that which I needed to get me to the place that I am now am”. I give all praise to Him alone and rejoice daily in His goodness and mercy over my life!
Strength
I see you standing strong and tall carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders But beyond the carefully manipulated smile and well-manicured profile I also see the pain, the strain, and the struggle of being a man in this man’s world You talk a good talk and your persuasive style fools the most discerning of minds You can light up a room with your presence and you exude great confidence Your ability to appear undaunted by life is astounding Oh, but I know your struggle your juggle of life, love & responsibility You face the day with your dreams in tow and trust that your faith will prevail as you go into the metal jungle of life and pain hoping against hope to preserve that which remains always encouraging the least to allow peace to abide believing in the end the strong really survive 15
Uses of the App
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ezonate is a unique new Biblebased meditation app that provides inspirational messages of hope, encouragement, relaxation and much more. Conversation-like voice streams, anecdotal Bible stories and restorative guided meditations accompanied by soothing sounds and images, are just a few of the therapeutic elements listeners can experience through the app. Developed by voiceover artist Dawna Bunton, the app is immediately engaging, as her authentic delivery captures and refreshes both soul and spirit. The powerful combination of empathy drawn from her own life’s experiences, and Spirit-breathed guidance resonates through each segment. Her desire for the hearer to be able to connect and receive is evident in every word. Both Christian and non-Christian audiences alike will find a sense of renewed focus and a comforting awareness of the love and presence of God.
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• Receiving encouragement • Affirming who you are • Targeted area Scripture readings • Relatable Bible Stories • Overcoming stress & anxiety • Ending a rough day • Finding motivation • Calm and Rest • Dealing with Fear, hurt, shame, rejection and abandonment… Available July 2020 for download and streaming on
Click here to listen to a free sample.
Faith Works
&
A�parel
VISIT US AT
www.faithwalkersministries.org 17
REAL MEN DO CRY BY: Donald Bunton, Jr.
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en of a certain age were raised in an era where we were taught to conceal our emotions, because showing ANY type of vulnerability was a sign of weakness. We are also one of the many generations suffering from PTSD and like generations before us, we lack the tools to navigate all the emotions and traumas we carry in our heads. This typically leaves us angry, frustrated and in most cases emotionally unavailable. If we are lucky, we meet or are influenced by someone who teaches us that releasing these emotions is where our true strength lies. The lesson is “Real Men do Cry.” We cry when the ills of the world become overwhelming and we feel trapped or left without options or optimism. We cry when we hurt, whatever the cause and the release is usually so freeing that the tears seem to flow endlessly as the memories trickle from our eyes down our faces. A marriage or relationship ends and yes, a real man cries remembering what was and fearing what is to come. An athlete cries in midst of defeat when the reality that his efforts were not enough to claim victory. A father watches his child achieve their first
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milestone or walk across the stage during graduation as tears of joy and admiration fall silently from his chin. These are examples we as men all experience at some point in our lives and we need to know, it is ok to cry. Are we not sons, brothers, fathers, friends etc.? It is our obligation to break generational curses where we have learned to keep our emotions bottled up and never let the world see us sweat. As black men, we live in a world that is very different than the one experienced by our counterparts. A world with pitfalls and challenges that are specifically designed to cause us to fail. That reality alone is enough to bring us to our knees and ask GOD why?? Why have we been tasked with such a heavy burden to carry? Let me assure you, the world becomes a little easier to tolerate when you learn and understand your purpose and begin to live in that purpose. Even then the moments I spoke of previously will still become your reality. In those times we must try to stayed focused, stay blessed and always remember – our reality is
“Real Men Do Cry.”
“The Heart of a Father is the Masterpiece of Nature” Antoine Francois Prevost
Shout Dads Out to
Personal Father’s Day
I want to say “Happy Heavenly Father’s Day to my dad Mr. Joe N. Moore, Sr. YOU were the greatest provider ever and loved your children beyond measure. Thanks daddy…for your guidance and for being a blessing in my life. Mary V.
Happy Father’s Day! To my Wonderful Husband Donald Bunton, Sr. You exemplify all that fatherhood is and more. I celebrate you today and forever! A great father and husband is who you are. Love you always…Your Forever love - Pat
To My Amazing Sons & Grandson, Don Jr., Lamont, Sr. & ElRicoas Keep being who you are! Great fathers and strong Black Men! We love you ALL to Life! Mom & Dad Happy Father’s Day to My Daddy Joe! Though you may not be here with us physically, You are always in our hearts forever! I love and miss you this Father’s Day! Your Baby Girl - Thelma
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GRILLED HAWIIAN TERIYAKI CHICKEN SKEWERS INGREDIENTS: Boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1 inch cubes 1/4 cup brown sugar ½ cup soy sauce ¼ cup pineapple juice 1 garlic clove minced ¼ teaspoon pepper ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 red bell pepper cut into 1 inch cubes 1 yellow bell pepper cut into 1 inch cubes 1 green bell pepper cut into 1 inch cubes 1 red onion cut into 1 inch cubes 1 cup fresh pineapple cut into 1 inch cubes Green onion for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, pepper, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch. Slowly whisk into the mixture. 2. Bring to a boil and boil about 1-2 minutes until the mixture just starts to thicken. Remove from heat and reserve ¼ cup of the sauce for later. 3. Marinate the chicken in the sauce in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Thread the chicken on skewers along with the peppers, red onion, and pineapple. 4. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until meat is done to desired liking. Remove from the grill and baste with reserved sauce. Garnish with green onions if desired.
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THE CORONAVIRUS IN IT’S SPIRITUAL CONTEXT By: Pastor Forrest Moore
Excerpt from one of the many emails sent to Governmental Authorities; Sunday, March 29, 2020
I
am Pastor Forrest Moore, pastor of West Highland Missionary Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa. However, I am currently in Tanzania, Africa.
I will now address my reason for this writing. I received a “word” from God regarding the prevention of the coronavirus a week ago, and I have been trying to get this word to the proper authorities for implementation. God told me to tell “the powers that be” to advise the public that has not contracted the virus yet, to take the drug Malarone and it will prevent contraction. When the virus has run its course with those who are affected the infections will sto. Let me first establish the fact that the drug Malarone in itself, has no more ability to prevent the virus than any other drug that has been tested; it is God’s choice. Please allow me at this time to share the biblical principle for this application. The principal is found in Numbers 21:9 and John 3:14. Numbers 21:9 is the “type” and “shadow” while John 3:14 is the “object” and “essence”. When we study these passages, we realize that the actual healing source was and is in God Himself. And this power is activated by faith and obedience. There was no power in the serpent on the pole or in the drug Malarone to remedy the people’s malady. The healing process began with God speaking a “word”. Nothing would have happened if Moses had acted on his own. Romans 10:17 say faith comes by hearing the “word” of God and healing comes by acting on that “word”. God has spoken a “word” to prevent further infections from the virus, it is up to us to believe that “word” and act on it. Do know that there were Israelites who refused to look upon the serpent. “This is an awesome evangelical opportunity for the church to promote the God who will bring His “word” to pass if we have faith and act. God bless you!” The World Health Organization’s (hereinafter referred to as WHO) Covid-19 has created the proverbial dog whose “tail is wagging the dog”; the dog is not in charge. Humanity has not been in charge since the Garden of Eden. In addition to the tons of damage the virus is causing,
the most alarming is that it has reduced the value of human life to an existential “curve” that human governments, in conjunction with the World Health Organization, are laboring feverishly to “flatten.” Thousands of mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, husbands, etc., who lose their lives are “curves”. The dead are not even afforded the decency of a funeral, but in many instances are zipped up in body bags and buried in mass graves while we practice “social distancing” and wash our hands singing “happy birthday” two times. This virus is globally re-programming humanity: economically, politically, medically, socially, religiously, and psychologically. In addition, the media coverage of the pandemic is in many ways worse than the pandemic itself. They have yet to ask an intelligent question; they want absolute and conclusive answers that involve dates, numbers, and predictions. It has not yet registered in their brains that it is IMPOSSIBLE to answer the questions they are asking. There is no precedent to reference and the characteristics of this virus are still under investigation. The virus determines the dates and numbers. Unlike other historical crisis of this nature, the world will NEVER fully recover from this one, despite professional opinions and prognosis. This is not a case of “it will get worse before it gets better”. This is a case of “it will get worse” period. This one problem is creating more problems than the world will be able to rectify in its aftermath. The aftermath will be a “new norm.” To add presumptuous insult to presumptuous injury, global governments are considering “re-opening” for economic reasons. Businesses are stuck “between a rock and a hard place” and it is a “six in one hand and a half dozen in the other” dilemma. The ultimate question is: Is it more important to re-open the businesses or to be here to run them? Covid- 19 has given the global economic community a choice: it can kill either the economy or the economist; which do we
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choose? From the Divine perspective, the nations that suffer the most are determined by their level of Divine light and apostasy; not their level of preparedness, as the mass media would have us think. To whom much is given, much is required. The governmental mandates and regulations will not work indefinitely. There is a “long enough” point in our DNA that causes us to resort to other means and measures when we reach that point. Thanks to Adam, human beings are naturally disobedient lawbreakers, even to our own hurt, harm, and detriment. Wherever there is law, it arouses within us the natural tendency to break it. There has not been 100% obedience to governmental mandates anywhere in the world, and there never will be. This fact alone will inevitably exacerbate the exponential spread of Covid-19. We are literally our own worst enemy and by nature, cannot help it. This is primarily due to our natural sinful inclinations and tendencies. In other words, the human race’s propensities ultimately dictate the human race’s destiny; we need to be saved from ourselves. Selfishness and personal interests have replaced societal interests. In many instances, our behavior suggests that not only do we not care whether we contract the virus, but also whether we transmit it to others. In Democratic nations, personal rights and freedoms will be violently demanded, despite Covid-19 or any other imposition. In respect to human propensities on a broader scale, Covid-19 is exposing the corruption and administrative shortcomings of global governments like nothing else could have. It is accomplishing what years of “antigovernment” demonstrations, rallies, rebellions, and protests have failed to accomplish. Case in point: many of the governmental officials of third world nations are being forced by Covid-19 to spend money they have been stealing from their countries for years. This is the reason there is little or no improvement in these countries regardless of how much international aid is poured into them. However, because of Covid-19, their “gravy trains” have been suspended indefinitely, due to their economies having nothing for them to steal. Their only recourse now is to steal from the funds sent from WHO and other international sources to assist with the Covid-19 pandemic, and many of them will. These countries’ governments are designed to keep their governmental officials rich and their people poor (I just thought I would add that since I am telling everything). As far as the discomforts of the global impositions on society are concerned, a visit to the villages and townships of some of these countries will reveal the reality that the rest of the world has confused “inconvenience” with actual “hardship.” The “stay at home” and “social distancing” mandates mean absolutely nothing to some of these poor people. They had rather die trying to put food on the ground (most of them do not have tables), than to die from starvation sitting in their huts. If they contract the virus, it will have to be brought to their townships and villages from abroad for none of these poor people can afford to travel abroad. This global enemy is so small until it can only be seen through a microscope, yet it has rendered helpless the mightiest combined militaries ever amassed in human
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history. The medical professionals (WHO) call the virus Covid-19 (co=corona + vi=virus + d=disease + 19=2019). In reality, it is a demon who entered the human dimension through a portal created by Chinese scientists and medical professionals who crossed the line in their “dabbling” in the biblical forbidden. In the physical realm, the posts of Satan and his demons are always in the vicinity of the “forbidden,” as was the case in Genesis 3:1-6. Satan initiated a dialogue with Eve that eventually led to her yielding to temptation because her presence in the vicinity of the “forbidden” exposed her interest. Whenever humans venture into this vicinity, they will always be tempted to cross the “forbidden” line; teaching us that, if the “fruit” is forbidden, we should stay away from the “tree”, (I just thought I would add that since I am telling everything). It is no secret that China has problems with “over population”. They have been trying for years to solve this problem. It is probable that Chinese scientists were experimenting with a virus/germ they extracted from an animal they discovered hosting the virus/germ. An analysis of the virus/germ revealed that this virus/germ could be used to target specific ethnic groups and those in society who have poor health and pre-existing health conditions. This would rid society of its health liabilities; guaranteeing that only the strong and healthy survive, but the problem was how it could spread without its origin source being detected? However, before all its characteristics were analyzed, in some way, at some point, the virus/germ escaped from the lab prematurely, but it is still producing the intended results even among Chinese. Many of the historical epidemics/pandemics were transmitted to humans from animals and originated in China. However, no negative report will come from China without some independent, underground network, at its own peril reports it. The country is still under Communist influence, which owns and controls the media and dictates the news released. Nothing broadcasted by the Chinese media can ever be trusted; it is censored (I just thought I would add that since I am telling everything). Propaganda has always been the “trump card” of Communism. Covid-19 is not just a demon, but it is the spiritual “prince” of China, whose spiritual rank is just below that of Satan himself. An understanding of the rank and authority of this class of demon is revealed in the book of Daniel 10:13-20. The spiritual overseers of human governments are called “princes”. There is constant warfare in the “heavenlies” between holy angels and fallen angels in respect to God’s prophetic will about humanity. These scriptural passages reveal the fact that world empires are determined in the spirit realm and not by military might or at polls. Notice in the latter part of verse 20, Gabriel names the next world empire: he says, “and when I am gone, lo, the prince of Grecia (Greece) shall come.” When demons on this level gain entrance into the human realm, their sole purpose has always been to destroy the entire human race, in an attempt to prevent the fulfillment of biblical prophecies. The intent of their assignment is to have global effects always.
These demons have the powers to manipulate the effects of the viruses in ways that create a deceptive sense of human control over them, and when human arrogance fully sets in, the demons “up the ante” and they cause mutation. The TIMES OF INDIA has reported that Covid-19 has “mutated into 10 different types (at the time of this writing).” At the end of March, the type “A2a” became dominant in lung infections and is responsible for the global spreading. The type “O” is called the “Ancestral” type because its origin was discovered in Wuhan, China. The vaccine scientists and medical professionals are trying to develop is for the original “ancestral O” strain not the dominant “A2a” mutation that is spreading. As humanity desperately seeks vaccines to immunize itself against these kinds of viruses, the viruses themselves are becoming immune to vaccines. In other words, the viruses are more immune to a cure than we are to the viruses; they are always a step ahead of us, as if they are aware of our efforts. Herein lies the answer to the mysteriousness of these diseases and their characteristics; there is supernatural intelligence involved. The viruses act as if they have minds, and they do. The physical effects of Covid-19 are constantly increasing and varying, creating new viruses. It is reported that it is causing strokes in healthy people; Covid Toe, among five other skin rashes; heart problems; and having mysterious effects on children. It has been discovered that the virus survives on surfaces longer than originally assumed, the recommended social distance is not far enough, asymptomatic individuals are creating new problems, and the “models” doctors are using to critique the virus requires constant revisions because the virus will not behave. The unanimous description of Covid-19 and its effects on humans is “mysterious.” Its behavior and the damage it is causing are unprecedented, to say the least. The scenario is literally that of demons versus human scientific and medical technology and it is a “shutout” in favor of the demons. Humanity has yet to score on its own and has always required Divine intervention. The demons know from history that God will eventually intervene as far as the death rate is concerned so their “plan B” is to do as much of what they think is irreparable damage as possible. The superficial “flattening of the curve” is a set up. I hope this information reaches the right eyes and ears. WHO named the virus because its appearance resembled crowns under the microscope. The word “corona” in Latin means “crown, garland, or wreath”. In ancient cultures, kings and queens wore these items on their heads as symbols of royalty. Therefore, based on its name, it is the virus that wears crowns. The demon is aware of this and is determined not to disappoint WHO. Every major plague, epidemic, pandemic, pestilence, and the like, both biblical and secular, that has threatened to annihilate humanity has always been of supernatural origin. This demon has been “called out” or exposed. When the demon is discerned and publicly exposed, demonic activity becomes more obvious. There are biblical examples to support this. This fact is realized when Christians who have the ability to discern and address demons confront them in spiritual warfare. Since the demons know they cannot hide, they pull off their masks of deception. Their trademark is deception and they want humans to think there is a “natural” cause behind
their activity. They are aware of the fact that the medical and scientific professionals have reservations about the supernatural and they need medical/scientific “proof” before accepting anything as a “fact.” From historical biblical records, a manifest increase in demonic activities has always signaled a Divine paradigm shift. The increased activities have historically intended to be preventative measures but have always failed. An unrealized fact among many humans is that Satan and his demonic cohorts know the bible. Based on their knowledge of the Scriptures and the “signs of the times,” they can sense the approaching occurrence of major historical events. “Beginning in December 2019 in the region of Wuhan, China, a new (“novel”) coronavirus began appearing in human beings: it has been named Covid-19, a shortened name of “coronavirus disease of 2019.” This new virus spreads incredibly quickly between people, due to its newness – no one on earth has immunity to Covid-19, because no one had Covid-19 until 2019. While initially deemed an epidemic in China, the virus spread worldwide within months. The WHO declared Covid-19 a pandemic in March, and by the end of that month, the world saw more than a half-million people infected and nearly 30,000 deaths. The infection rate in the US and other nations was still spiking. Dozens of companies and many independent researchers began working on tests, treatments, and vaccines. The push for humanity to survive the pandemic became the primary concern in the world. At the time of this writing, the outcome of the Covid-19 pandemic is impossible to predict, but we can learn from pandemics in history to determine our best courses.” In none of these instances has humanity resorted to God, resulting in forced intervention for the sake of humanity. This is inevitably, what will eventually happen at some point during this pandemic. A pandemic WILL NOT destroy the world; the Bible reveals the actual culmination of this world’s order. The coronavirus is of supernatural origin and characteristics and must be addressed on a supernatural level. The only reason demons on this level have never achieved their objectives in both biblical and secular history is because God has always intervened. The primary reason the coronavirus is wreaking such havoc on humanity is because its demonic source knows God or Divine intervention is not on man’s list of possible considerations as a prevention/ cure. Humanity has relegated God to some small, remote existential space that He is not allowed to come out of without human permission. For many, the mere mention of His or His Son’s name is offensive; their names have been demoted to curse words. Every time the need for Divine intervention forces its way to the forefront of humanity’s collective consciousness, it is suppressed, overridden, and dismissed. Romans 1:18-22 describes this global collective consciousness. In the New Living Translation (NLT), these verses read, “But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen
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the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. They have no excuse for not knowing God. 21 Yes, they knew God, but they would not worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. God...” In verse 21b where it reads, “As a result, their minds became dark and confused...,” the original Greek implies that since they refused to use their minds as they were intended to be used, their minds were rendered incapable of functioning as they were intended. Regarding the use of God-given means for the intended purposes, when mankind “will not”, he eventually “cannot.” The paraphrased scenario in the Greek is that of a courtroom setting where humanity has put God on trial for the purpose of determining whether He passes the test of being worthy of human conscious consideration. The unanimous verdict after deliberation is - God failed the test and should therefore be disregarded as a conscious consideration in human affairs. This is the current collective consciousness of the unsaved human race with respect to God. It is simply manifesting itself regarding a preventative/cure for Covid-19. The ultimate purpose of man’s tireless historical efforts to overcome these viruses is to say in the end, “we didn’t need God”. Governor Andrew Cuomo has already said it because of New York’s efforts to “flatten the curve.” His first remark was “Here’s the good news, the curve continues to flatten.... We appear to have a plateau”. In his April 13th press conference on the COVID-19 pandemic, Cuomo haughtily asserted, “The number is down because we brought the number down. God did not do that. Fate did not do that. Destiny did not do that. A lot of pain and suffering did that”. The week before, on April 7th, Cuomo said something similar, this time hoping to reach a plateau
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in hospitalizations: “It still depends on what we do. What we do will affect those numbers. We are not facing an act of God. It is an act of what society does. All one must do is count the number of times he uses the pronoun “we.” Prior to these blasphemies, the Governor stated, “There is going to be no morning where the headlines say, “hallelujah, it is over”. The word “hallelujah” means, “praise the LORD”! In this self-damning statement, he pronounced the future fate of his state for Proverbs 18:21 reads, “death and life are in the power of the tongue”. This pandemic is exposing how far removed humanity is from its Creator. God is permitting the pandemic to give humanity its last chance to acknowledge Him before the rapture and the real “tribulation” begins. The “birth pangs” are intensifying and the four horsemen of Revelation 6:18 have saddled their horses. The aftermath of this crisis will create such global calamities until the world will be desperate for a “man” with a plan, not a God: the perfect condition for the debut of the Antichrist. His solution to a “global” crisis will be a “global” economy under a “global” government, united by a “global” religion. With the church having been raptured, he will have no problem. However, in keeping with the faithfulness of God, He has provided a prescription for the prevention of Covid-19 (This is the primary purpose for my writing this thesis). This prescription works by faith; a dynamic that cannot be analyzed in a test tube in a laboratory, since the medical world needs proof that it works. This prescription is said to be a “preventative,” not a “cure.” It will prevent the further spreading of the virus after it runs its course with those who are currently infected. Those who die from the virus are deemed “sacrifices” for the sake of those who do not have to die, a biblical principle. God’s dealings with mankind, by way of His grace and mercy, have always involved sacrifices, the ultimate being that of His own Son.
Shortly after Covid-19 made the headlines and before there was any mention of possible preventative drugs, I began praying and meditating with respect to a possible prevention, when God told me to make known that the malaria drug ‘malarone’ would prevent the spreading of the virus if the drug is taken by faith in Him alone as the source. Romans 14:23 reads “anything that is not of faith is sin.” This drug, which is not intended to be an “experimental drug” like all the others; is guaranteed to work by God Himself. God explained to me that the drug itself has no more ability to prevent the spreading of the virus than any other currently tested drug. The difference is that it is God’s choice. The brazen serpent God told Moses to make and attach to a pole had absolutely no power in itself to heal those who looked upon it; those who looked upon it were healed because by faith, they applied God’s choice of a remedy (Numbers 21:6-9). There are several crucial points in this incident that apply to the current pandemic. The first thing we notice from the text is that the crisis was the result of sin reaching a punishment point. A careful investigation of every biblical and secular act of Divine judgment will reveal the fact that it was the result of sin needing to be “checked.” The next thing we notice is that many Israelites had already died before the introduction of the remedy. The next, and most important thing of all, was that the people acknowledged the fact that they were ultimately responsible for the crisis and needed an intercessor. The final thing we notice is that no one was forced to look upon the remedy, they had a choice; they could trust God and look and live or they could doubt God and die. This is exactly where we are right now. If the “powers that be” will authorize a thirty-day prescription of this drug to the public, God will create immunity in those who by faith and obedience comply. With an understanding that all governmental officials and their staffs are tremendously busy and stressed, I relayed this revelation to a few of them. First, to the Mayor of Tuscaloosa, then the Governor of Alabama, the Governor of New York and his task force, President Donald Trump’s email, the head medical officials of the primary hospital in Geita, Tanzania, where I currently am, and several staff members of government officials. To date, none of them have responded favorably or promoted it. I even proposed that I would personally spend time among those infected to prove God’s Word. However, their reservations are understandable. Health professionals must prove this preventative drug. Both the declaration and the application of God’s prescription will inevitably put governmental officials “on the spot”. The members of “the body of Christ” who hold governmental positions do not have the nerve to stand up for the sake of their religion, as a stand is “politically incorrect”. Even the “faith healers” are not taking advantage of this awesome opportunity to prove to the global community, as opposed to select audiences, that their ministries are legitimate, but instead are adhering to governmental regulations. The days of “radical” Christianity are officially over. The current spiritual status of the church is “lukewarm,” rendering it virtually powerless to counter any major spiritual attacks or governmental impositions. The church is told to stay home when the bible tells us to forsake not
“the assembling of ourselves together” (Hebrews 10:25 KJV). When salt loses its savor, it is thenceforth good for nothing but to be cast out and to be trodden under the foot of men. America’s role in the overall scheme of things is now irrelevant, its influence has waned, and its status is being challenged. Its prophetic purpose has been accomplished. God’s toleration of America has been due to its overt support of Israel since its “new” birthday on May 14, 1948. Donald Trump, because he was not a politician and headstrong, was divinely appointed to be president to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s Capital and to instigate the moving of the Capital from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, God’s ordained location. President Trump is now on his own and naturally, nothing he does is “politically correct”. His unlikely election was simply another instance of displaying the kinds of “tools” God can use. He WILL NOT be re-elected, and America will “pay to the piper.” In conclusion: since this virus is extremely contagious, global, spreading exponentially, killing people, and no one knows who will contract it next, the personal diagnostic question is, ‘have you made eternal preparations’? For those who have dismissed the need of salvation, it is past time to seriously consider it. The plan is intentionally simple: Romans 10:9-11 in the NIV reads, “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” If you are serious about salvation, it is just that simple. If you have not done what this scripture says do, do it now! It is virtually impossible for things to continue in the direction they are headed, at the speed at which they are traveling, without eventually reaching some catastrophic destination. In His service, Of his host of accolades and achievements, Pastor Moore would like to be known as a Humble and Faithful Servant of God who has a heart for the people of God and for humanity at large. It is because of his care and concern for ALL that he was led to share this information. God has entrusted him as an under shepherd in the role of Senior Pastor of West Highland Missionary Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa, Alabama for over 39 years. He is a graduate and past Professor of Birmingham Theological Seminary, where he also served on the Clinical Council. He is a published author of three books: “What Every Preacher Should Know “; “The Counterfeit Church”; “A History of the Black Church”. Currently he is penning his fourth book. He is married and has his quiver full of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. I have known Pastor for over 50 years. It is my prayer that his writing not only be read by multitudes but received as well. I have willingly entrusted the watch care and spiritual wellbeing of my soul to him for over 46 years. PASTOR MOORE IS WELL QUALIFIED and ANOINTED BY GOD TO SEND OUT THIS WRITING!
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PEACE IN THE MIDST OF THE CHAOS
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ueens! We are currently living in turbulent and uncertain times in this nation. It is so easy to find ourselves becoming distracted and overwhelmed by life’s events bombarding our psyche on a daily basis.
There are times in life, when your space becomes so consumed and crowded with the mundane cycle of absolute nonsense, that there remains little space for rationality. There is this constant jockeying for your undivided attention, and you suddenly feel the need to escape the rhythmic drone of senselessness that pervades your every waking moment and thought. You search tirelessly for a sense of sanctum and peacefulness to shroud you in its cocoon of security, from the relentless madness of this thing we refer to as life. This seemingly never-ending cycle of frustration takes its toll on the mental state, and you can actually lose your psychological footing and ultimately, slip into an abyss of seclusion, isolation, and mental instability. LADIES…ALL IS NOT LOST! At this juncture, some of you may think that it’s another slice of cake that you need… nope you need a SCREAM! Others of you may believe that a good movie will do the job, no way not today, a SCREAM is the answer. Maybe a new relationship will get the job done…no way my dear sister. What you need to do is find yourself a secluded spot where there will be no interruptions, distractions, or confused bystanders, and have at it with an unrestrained earth-shattering SCREAM! Believe me when I tell you, you cannot imagine the overwhelming sense of peace and liberation that will follow this type of emotional and mental release. Sounds so simple right? Suddenly, your thinking becomes clearer. All of the muddled imaginations and cloudy and confused thoughts immediately take on a new dimension of comprehension. Your sense of creativity explodes, and your mental equilibrium finds balance at last. You’re smiling again for no particular reason, you find yourself breathing calmly, and once again, sanity and soundness returns and reigns! Don’t stress so much over things that will eventually change. Embrace each new day with hope and anticipation for something greater and better than the day before! Always remember…QUEENS REIGN!
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SUNDAYS 4:00 PM EST TUNE IN AND BE BLESSED!
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Co-Host: DAWNA BUNTON 38
NOT BY CHANCE…. NOT ORDINARY… NOT THE NORM!!! By: Dr. Marci Tilghman Bryant
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ur lives were designed to have impact in the earth, however, before we can rise to that level of execution, it is important that we understand and learn to from these three points of truth. TRUTH #1: WE ARE NOT HERE BY CHANCE…before you were in your mother’s womb you were in the mind of God.
TRUTH #2: WE ARE NOT AN ORDINARY PEOPLE…WE WALK WITH GOD, LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT UNDER THE AUTHORITY, LEADERSHIP AND EXAMPLE SET BY JESUS…the bible teaches us that we are pilgrims on this earth, and that the authority Jesus had when he was here, he delegated to us before he returned to be with the Father in heaven. TRUTH #3: WE ARE NOT THE NORM… we cannot afford to think, behave or walk like the world. We are not called to walk the path of least resistance for this path leads nowhere. We are a royal priesthood we walk by faith and not by sight. Psalm 139 – We are fearfully and wonderfully made. Matt 8 - We are to be humble and in pursuit of what is good and right, in spite of the odds (remember that the odds are in our favor) greater is He that
is within you than he that is in the world. Hebrews 12 – Let us run the race set before us. No one can make this choice for you unless you give them your will and allow them to. Remember, every man will give account for himself to God. To many of God’s people allow themselves to think less of themselves and their God given talents. God has enabled each of His own to be prepared to accomplish what He has sent them in the earth to do. Our flesh sometimes gets in the way and we forget that the power is within us to overcome. We must continually remind ourselves that Jesus told us in His word that He would never leave us or forsake us. And we must also remember that God has overcome the world and anything that could beset us on this journey. Jesus is always our example. David, the shepherd boy who was chosen to be a king while still in his youth, often had to encourage himself. With God’s word, you (we) can do the same. Keep God’s word active in your life. Read it and speak it daily into your life and over your life’s purpose. You are not here by chance, no matter what the devil tries to tell you otherwise. You were not a mistake even if you were told by your parents that you were not planned, perhaps not by them, but by God! 39
Kevin L. Kelley captures the heart and legacy of his father James E. Kelley. This project honors 115 years of family, love and wisdom personified through the Kelley family. His story of triumph and his commitment to overcome his earlier obstacles provided a model of strength and a portrait of excellence through overcoming adversity.
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SEEDS OF GLORY By Colleen Wheeler
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hear the Lord saying, “Your prayers are igniting a fire, burning up the seeds of deception and corruption and restoring the ground in preparation for His righteous seeds of Glory!” “My storm is causing an unleashing of butterflies and dandelion puffs to pollinate the earth!”
Behold, a perfect flower bouquet. Gales of wind unsettles; uprooting, tearing down. Bereft, upswept, undone; Frazzled in obscurity waving goodbye, Once held dear, yellow; now a dry white puff; Remnant enveloped by night; Crackles, daylight, bursting, flying; Seeds effortlessly, floating through trees, Sailing in the breeze; reproducing, Landing, new roots in the earth! Many times God speaks to us in visions of His creation. There is prophetic symbolism in nature often reflecting what the Lord is doing in our lives. In the last few months, we have become completely unraveled! What was behind us is over, what is now looks different, and what is ahead is unknown. We are not what we use to be, and we are not where we are supposed to be! We are in transition! He is taking us from glory to glory, yet, we are stuck inthe-middle of both glories which is a vast place of anguish where we have no choice but to humble ourselves and cry out, “Lord, change me!” We must be a people growing with increasing glory, continually changing into what we were created to be, conformed to His likeness, increasing in the character and nature of God.
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“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” - 2 Corinthians 3:18 Every change causes adversity, yet the Lord will graciously walk us through this uncomfortable place into the next season of our lives. Yet, the journey can get very bumpy; He shakes everything out from us so that what remains can be used for His Kingdom purposes, (Hebrews 12:26-27).
RADICAL CHANGE
Years ago, the Lord revealed a vision: ‘I saw a cocoon moving from side-to-side, suddenly it cracked and what was inside was trying to break out. Suddenly, in a fast-forward flash, I saw a huge colorful butterfly flying free!’ Back then, the Lord wanted me to leave my church, but I did not want to go; fear held me back. I was conflicted and struggled to obey Him! The Lord had to break me to move me out! He allowed a scenario of circumstances to shake me to the core until I was completely smashed down and broken. Then the Lord shifted me into the next season of my life! Vindicated, I was launched into my rightful position of authority! As a result, many lives were changed, and many seeds were scattered in that city!!! During this pandemic season, we are like the butterfly in the cocoon stage! It goes through a radical change called metamorphosis; a Greek word translated: “transformed.” We too are being processed to go from one point to another! He is transitioning us from this season into another season! He is transforming us from immaturity to
maturity and conforming us from death to a new life. When He finally releases us, we will be transitioned from this ‘cocoon season’ into the next season; it will be the most revolutionary transition we have ever experienced in our lifetime and history! DOUBLE LIFE REVELATION “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” Isaiah 43:19 Like the butterfly, we struggle to break free from our current situation. Yet we must remain still and allow God to reshape us. He is transforming us for His good purposes! We must go higher and continue journeying through the ‘storm of our hearts’ and rest in the ‘cocoon of His love.’ There He will break us so that He can remake us, renew us, revive us, and restore us! He will kill us softly with His song so we can sing a new song! The dandelion is very similar to the butterfly transformation, both have a double life revelation! They go through an emerging process and pollinate! When a dandelion transforms from a yellow flower into wispy whites, called pappi; at this phase one would think the flower is dead, yet, it continues creating seeds that cause pollination; they get blown off in the wind and are distributed as they sail in the breeze to make new roots in the earth! This is just what the Lord wants to do with us! SIFTING FOR SHIFTING “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” - Romans 8:18 He is maturing and preparing the Bride of Christ “us” to rise-up and pave the way for our Bridegroom’s arrival! Jesus is tearing down everything that must go so that He can build up a new foundation free of religiosity. All of this in exchange for the simplicity of an untainted pure gospel! We are currently in a hiding place ‘cocooned in His love’ for a reason! This is our kairos moment “a moment of divine time” ordained by God for us to be positioned for what is to come! We must spend quality time with Jesus and allow Him to sanctify and consecrate our hearts! He wants us to be clean vessels pure and unstained set apart to be His holy emerging remnant Bride! We must surrender to this transformation process of sifting for the upcoming shifting! He is sifting us because He is preparing to shift us into a higher
realm of His glory and authority. The gospels and book of Acts will be a mirror of normalcy for us going forward! He will send us into places we have never gone and use us in new instrumental ways, signs, wonders, and miracles will be multiplied by our hands. WE WILL ARISE “Arise, my soul, and sing his praises! I will awaken the dawn with my worship, greeting the daybreak with my songs of light.” - Psalms 108:2 This shift will be like the Apostle Paul; he was called by the Lord to be His chosen instrument and to suffer for His Namesake. He was blinded by heaven’s light but when the scales fell from his eyes he immediately saw with God’s perspective; he arose and began to proclaim Jesus! Paul was processed and transformed inside of a prison cell! We too are God’s chosen instruments! After our sheltered season of being set apart with the Lord, scales of old will fall from our eyes and suddenly we will see life anew and arise with great power and authority to proclaim Jesus! We are being prepared to be His is divine righteous vessels, ready for the Masters’ use! It will be Him blowing us, shifting us, and moving us in “exousia” authority and “dunamis” power. It will not be in our own strength, ideas or programs, rather it will be by an overtaking wind rushing into our sails, freely and effortlessly moving us unhindered to go where He leads! “We will awaken and respond as His chosen instruments, willing to suffer for His Namesake! We will be His hammer, His bell, His song of love and light all over the land!” Soon we will hear, “Arise my butterflies and dandelions, it’s time to pollinate the earth!” Then we will link arms with our brothers and sisters, we will be one, and the world will know us by our love! We will emerge as His mighty warriors flying free in the breeze and flowing with the wind of the Holy Spirit; pollinating and releasing a multiplication of ‘seeds of glory’ and making new roots throughout the land! “We will hammer out justice, we will ring the bell of freedom and sing out danger, sing out warning and sing a song of love between our brothers and sisters all over this land!!!” - Lyrics by Peter, Paul, and Mary
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3 SECRETS THAT WILL HELP PIVOT YOU INTO YOUR DESTINY Especially in These Challenging Times By Dr. Heather H. Tucker, PHD CEO/Life Harmony Coasch, Speaker, Trainer
www.AnotherLevelLiving. com/3Secrets 1-757-333-0669
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ho would have thought that 2020 would be like this? Only God knew. He is and has been speaking to his people. Change has come and the only constant is change. Additionally, we are experiencing divisions of epic proportions. We are told to social distance when we are naturally called for connection and community. The inequality and systemic oppression of Black Americans have been brought to the forefront once again. The levels of anger, sadness, and fear is felt worldwide. Have you felt the heaviness and wondered where can I go from here?
Good news, there is hope! We cannot control the things that happen and how other people behave, but we can control how we respond to them. Ask God what is the best way that you can respond to the chaos around you, and to give you His peace so you can endure the pressure you are experiencing. Remember that a diamond is created under great pressure and is one of the most valuable jewels on earth. You are priceless and valuable with a testimony to share. Now is the time for both prayer and action. If not now, then when? If not you, then who? What are you called to be, do, and have? Here are 3 steps on how to peacefully pivot into your calling: Lean In. - Acknowledge your thoughts and emotions. It is okay not to be okay. Gain awareness of your thoughts and feelings. What we think and feel, we do. The motive behind oppression is to suppress the greatness that is already inside us all. Everyone, including you, was born with a lion inside just waiting to break free and live with purpose, passion, and prosperity. What is God and your lion inside saying to you? “Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” - Proverbs 3:5-6.
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Let Go. - Yes, it’s usually easier said than done but it’s so worth it! Oftentimes, in order to attain something (a goal), we must give up thoughts, feelings, things, and even people we’ve been holding on to. Perhaps it is unforgiveness, resentment, bitterness, trust issues, or a job that no longer serves us. Even letting go mentally and emotionally can allow greater focus on God and our callings. What must you let go of? What’s holding you back from stepping into the greatest version of yourself in order to become who you’ve been called to be? What’s distracting you? What are the things that are truly preventing you from being the fruit of the spirit? “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law”. - Galatians 5:22-23. Move Forward. - Challenge yourself to become the Seed that bears much Fruit so that you can positively impact your world. It only takes the faith of a mustard seed. This includes self-care, because you can’t pour out from an empty cup. Imagine feeling safe, secure, and supported at all times, even in the midst of any challenges. Consider entrepreneurship to achieve total freedom and showing others how to do the same. Take action to expand your supportive environments so that you can achieve what you’ve been called to do. Never go the battle alone, have support.
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APOSTLE PATRICIA A. BUNTON – FOUNDER Our goal is to raise up an army of “FAITH WALKERS” who know and love their God and are strong and do great exploits in the Kingdom of their God PRAYER LINES OPEN DAILY 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (302)-465-3892…9 -12PM – (302)585-6564…12PM-7PM WE ARE HERE TO PRAY WITH YOU FOR WHATEVER YOU NEED!
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