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scripture
Psalm 95:1-6 (KJV) O COME, LET US SING UNTO THE LORD: LET US MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE TO THE ROCK OF OUR SALVATION. LET US COME BEFORE HIS PRESENCE WITH THANKSGIVING, AND MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE UNTO HIM WITH PSALMS. FOR THE LORD IS A GREAT GOD, AND A GREAT KING ABOVE ALL GODS. IN HIS HAND ARE THE DEEP PLACES OF THE EARTH: THE STRENGTH OF THE HILLS IS HIS ALSO. THE SEA IS HIS, AND HE MADE IT: AND HIS HANDS FORMED THE DRY LAND. O COME, LET US WORSHIP AND BOW DOWN:
Psalm 100 (KJV) “MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE UNTO THE LORD, ALL YE LANDS. SERVE THE LORD WITH GLADNESS: COME BEFORE HIS PRESENCE WITH SINGING. KNOW YE THAT THE LORD HE IS GOD: IT IS HE THAT HATH MADE US, AND NOT WE OURSELVES; WE ARE HIS PEOPLE, AND THE SHEEP OF HIS PASTURE. ENTER INTO HIS GATES WITH THANKSGIVING, AND INTO HIS COURTS WITH PRAISE: BE THANKFUL UNTO HIM, AND BLESS HIS NAME. FOR THE LORD IS GOOD; HIS MERCY IS EVERLASTING; AND HIS TRUTH ENDURETH TO ALL GENERATIONS.”
Psalm 107:1 (NIV) “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD, FOR HE IS GOOD; HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER.
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) “BE JOYFUL ALWAYS; PRAY CONTINUALLY; GIVE THANKS IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THIS IS GOD’S WILL FOR YOU IN CHRIST JESUS.”
2 November 2018 | Grace&Glory
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November 2018
™
contents on the cover:
Bishop Shirley Stanfill & Pastor Timothy Stanfill Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral
7171 Old Alexandria Ferry Rd. Clinton, Maryland
Cover Story
pgs 8-9 -Bishop Shirley Stanfill & Pastor Timothy Stanfill are doing it all supernaturally. They are speaking out on the key pillars of marriage, family, ministry, mission and business. The Stanfills have started a multi-business empire and are the talk show hosts for the Tim & Shirley Show on FaceBook.
Feature Articles
Healthy Mind 22 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
16 NOVEMBER IS 10 KEEP THE FIRE BURNING NATIONAL Bishop Shirley & DIABETES MONTH Pastor Timothy Stanfill University of Maryland
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Common Ground
Healthy Soul 24 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Tiffany Bethea
Preparing, Positioning, Pouring
26 LADY C SPEAKS
Min. Carenda McCray
Are You Ready to Be Destined For Greatness
28 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Tracey George
Divine Dining
In Every Issue Scripture Page...............2 4 November 2018 | Grace&Glory
Contributors...............6
From the Editor...............7
Assisting older adults and their families
Pastors &
Church Leadership
Are your members in need of help? Hosea 4:6 NKJV – My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
We may be able to help older adult members and their families: • save $109 a month on Medicare B • obtain assistance in covering the legal and service costs of retitling the deed to the home where you reside • locate funds to help pay for prescription drugs • receive needed rest for caregivers (St. Ann Adult Day Services) • receive information and education about Alzheimer's • receive education and assistance for caregivers
• complete HUD applications for senior housing • be screened for renters' and/or homeowners' tax credit • receive nutritious meals through Meals on Wheels or volunteer (for home-bound individuals) • learn about hearing device assistance or new Medicaid funding for one hearing aid • receive home modification assistance
CALL Catholic Charities to arrange a date and time for your church to host an event at
667-600-2100 or afa@cc-md.org
100 houses of worship will be asked to host this FREE outreach at their sites. This pilot concentrates on West Baltimore and Cherry Hill. Refreshments will be served.
Inspired by the Gospel mandates to love, serve and teach, Catholic Charities provides care and services to improve the lives of Marylanders in need.
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For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
Contributors PUBLISHER/ Jackie Epps EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITORIAL
Dr. Carla J. Debnam Tiffany Bethea Min. Carenda McCray Tracey George Ruth Young Tyler
GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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Advisory Board Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Bishop Frank M. Reid, Jr. AME Church Dr. Michael A. Battle Sr., U.S. Ambassador President, ITC Seminary, Atlanta, GA Dr. Timothy Boddie Friendship Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA Bishop John R. Bryant Presiding Prelate of the 5th Episcopal District Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn/Media Executive Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Healing Voices Ministries Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Dream Life Worship Center Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD
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Editor
From the
Consider
God's
Goodness
It is probably a good thing that the Thanksgiving Holiday comes at the end of the year. Thanksgiving Day is the holiday we pause and reflect on all of our manifold blessings. By the time we get to Thanksgiving Day we also discover that the year has almost come to an end. I’m sure we can all agree that we have plenty to be thankful for. At the same time we can all agree that there were some things and some promises that we have been praying for and waiting for that has not manifested . . . yet. What can we say then to these things? Well, this time of year when we are counting our blessings, let’s consider a few things, let’s consider God’s goodness. If you think about the goodness of the Lord and all He has done for you, you realize if it had not been for the Lord on your side, where would you be? Consider this . . . it is only because of the Lord’s mercies that you are not consumed. God’s mercies are new every morning; God is faithful. God has kept you through trials and tribulations, heartaches and disappointments. God has kept you through the good and the bad. God is your keeper. Consider this . . . there is nothing too hard for God. He has supplied all of your needs. God is able to keep you from falling. God is strong and mighty; He is your shield, your buckler and your protector. God is everything you need Him to be.
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
Consider this . . . you’ve come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord, trusting in His holy word, and He’s never failed you yet. That means no turning back and no looking back. It means keep moving forward and keep the faith. It means that you can finish the race that has been set before you. Consider this . . . you may not know what the future will bring; but the good news is, you do know who holds your tomorrows and who holds your hand. God will never leave you or forsake you. God loves you. Consider this. . . God is awesome. Thank Him for all of His wonderful blessings. Thank Him for being such a loving and kind Father. Thank Him for His grace and His mercy. Thank Him for your life and things being as well as they are. Thank Him for friends and family. Consider this . . . there is nobody greater than our God. God gave His son’s life for us just so we could have eternal life and live with Him in eternity. God is our Savior. Happy Thanksgiving!
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Doing it ALL, Supernaturally! The Stanfills on Marriage, Family, Ministry, Business and Mission
Love & Blessings Grace & Glory Family. We’ve been busy at Kingdom Family Enterprise, since we last checked in. One month ago, we entered into 5779, the Year of Spontaneous Manifestation. This year embraces everything from your past that you have envisioned and brings it into the physical realm now. Thus, we thought as we transition into this new year, it is a good time to revisit the key pillars of our foundation in the Kingdom Family Enterprise that are needed to produce Kingdom Results. Pastor Tim and Bishop Shirley Holloway Those key pillars are: Marriage, Family, Ministry, Business and Mission. Sometimes when we share the things we are working on with others, they simply cannot believe it and go into overwhelm mode. So, before we talk about our recent developments, let’s remember that God equips those whom He calls (2 Peter 1:3). If you worry about how your new relationship will work out, how you will get the money, or where you will find the time, whatever you are thinking is what you will get (Proverbs 23:7). Every morning we wake up, we are only thinking about the work and word of God and sharing it with others. And every day we are given a vessel and EVERYTHING and EVERYBODY we need to make it happen.
Happily Ever After In our marriage, we are best friends and we start and end each day in prayer and peace. For many, it’s so simple, it’s complex. While we don’t agree on everything, we do agree that the final word is God’s word. And when we live by His principles and His way, we both clearly see that our path has already been laid. We just need to walk in it with unquestioning faith and gratitude. On October 7th, we celebrated our one-year anniversary by hosting a Royal Night Out, a 5-star event for Kingdom couples. The event was hosted at La Fontaine Bleue, a Royal Night Out was a night to remember filled with great food, hand dancing and awesome fellowship. Motivational speaker Willie Jolley presented and Captain Fly and the Intruders kept the music flowing all night 8 November 2018 | Grace&Glory
long. The intention behind the event was not only to celebrate our anniversary, but more importantly to encourage, motivate and empower other couples as we manifested covenant purpose for all in attendance. Prayer warriors and intercessors were all a part of this grand reception.
The Family that prays together…. Together we have 6 children, 6 grandchildren and 1 grandchild on the way. In everything we do, we know it’s important to be a role model and build a legacy for those who will follow in our steps. This is why our week begins every Sunday at the Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral, 7171 Old Alexandria Ferry Rd., where we share the Holy Spirit at 10 am and set the tone for what we need to accomplish each week with both our fellowship and birth families. Our son, Timothy Palmer, Jr. is also a Pastor. He and his wife recently adopted a child. They join us in fellowship and Pastor Timothy Jr. has also led our men’s prayer breakfast on occasion. Our son Tashaun Stanfill-Perry, is sharing his God-given talents in a different way. He is an actor and film producer. He was featured in the Social Theory web series and most recently The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. He is currently producing the film The Laser Effect where we were featured and did an episode in Criminal Minds. Our daughter Delilah Johnson is the Executive Director of Bishop's non-profit, real estate and Beauty Salon Business. I tell you this not to impress you, but to impress upon you the many miracles God can and will deliver when you continue to live by his principles and believe them wholeheartedly.
14 Days of Prayer, Power and Love Mission Trip to Africa In our first year of traveling to Africa as a couple (Bishop Shirley has been traveling there for 20+ years), we visited Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya. The spirit and love were strong as we led a crusade revival of approximately 6,000 attendees. And we also hosted 2 women’s conferences in Rwanda and Kenya. However, our work did not end
The Heart of Business
Tim & Shirley Fashions is home to high quality apparel at an affordable price. Shop for women’s couture, church clothing, hats, choir robes, TIM & SHIRLEY F A S H I O N S men’s church fashions and shoes. We are also the home of Dunking Gear. All items are available in our retail or online store at timandshirleyfashions.com.
As we are in the Year of Spontaneous Manifestation, we started off the month of October prepared to do it all, supernaturally. On October 3rd we kicked off our 2nd annual STRETCH International Summit - Saints Tenaciously Reaching Expanding Training Creating Harmoniously. This event spanned 4 days and encompassed our Prophetic Release and culminated with the Royal Night Out to celebrate our one-year wedding anniversary. On October 6th we did our Prophetic Release where we announced the Grand Opening of not 1, but 3 businesses that we launched at the same time at the Woodlyn Mall, located at 15638 Livingston Road in Accokeek, MD. Enterprise hours of operation are 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Enterprise currently encompasses: Tim & Shirley’s Cafe features soul and comfort food. The cafe has booth seating for your dine-in or take away enjoyment and we can support all your catering & hosting party needs. Our cafe phone number is 1-844-EAT-CAFE.
there. In fact, it was just beginning! We raised $2 million Ugandan dollars and was able to purchase truckloads of supplies for an orphanage in Uganda. We filled the orphanage with mattresses, blankets, sheets, food and we got book bags and soccer jerseys for all the kids. We also invested in a basketball goal so that we can provide a positive outlet for kids who are far away from economic opportunity and a life that many take for granted. Every month we also send money to our Africa Project to help buy book bags. Our adopted sons Timothy Jr. and Timothy David need to attend a better school that will help them reach their capacity. We are working hard to raise $250/quarter to send them to the school that will help them achieve their goals and create
Xclusive Beauty & Body Glam offers high end spa services. What makes it Xclusive? We specialize in non-surgical hair replacement for alopecia anf female pattern baldness. We are only able to accommodate a limited number of customers each day so that we can provide a personalized experience. Your commitment to your family, ministry, relationship and business are all critical to leading a balanced life. But it is not complete unless you openly share your love and resources with those most in need. Although we work hard to be God’s servants every day of the year, our recent mission work took us to Africa.
opportunities for others. We hope that you will join us in our work and you may contact us directly at our office at 202-8892942 if you would like to learn more or get involved. Is what we are doing really supernatural? Maybe it sometimes seems that way for us, but not for God. No matter what we have been through or are going through, our trials and tribulations are not meant to hurt us, but to prepare us to help others who are going through the same. And by living the word of God and sharing it with others, we have been able to do God’s will every day in every way and we hope and pray the same holds true for you. www.TimandShirleyFashions.com TSFashionsBoutique@gmail.com fb.me/TimandShirleyFashion m.me/TimandShirleyFashion www.instagram.com/p/BpPx4W7HtHu/ TimShirleyCafe@gmail.com www.gracenglorymagazine.org 9
keep the fire burning
Love & Blessings Grace & Glory by Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill
We are Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill. We are grateful for the opportunity that Grace & Glory owner Jackie Epps has extended to us. Each month starting in November 2018 we will be sharing spiritual advice and tips in our column “Keep the Fire Burning”. Our hope is to encourage and strengthen you by teaching you how to get the proper wood for each fire in your life’s functions - ministry, marriage, family, business and mission. When you work on building God’s house first, He will help you build yours and achieve your desired success. However, it is important to realize “success" is not the end goal. Success is the blessing you receive after going through the process and work of building and sustaining your spiritual fire. All fire must have wood to burn. However, Spiritual Fire is the first and foremost important fire of them all. Haggai 1:7-11 says: Thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways. 8 Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house, that I may take pleasure in it and that I maybe glorified, says the LORD. 9 You looked for much, and behold, it came to little. And when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? declares the LORD of hosts. Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house. 10 Therefore the heavens above you have withheld the dew, and the earth has withheld its produce. 11 And I have called for a drought on the land and the hills, on the grain, the new wine, the oil, on what the ground brings forth, on man and beast, and on all their labors.” Your spiritual fire must continually burn and the wood for your fire are found in the practices of prayer, repentance, forgiveness, fasting, praise, worship, meditation and consecration. When you focus on continually feeding your spiritual fire with God’s principles, your other fires in life will keep on burning in the areas of marriage, family, business, ministry and mission. We hope you’ll join us in the next edition of Grace & Glory where we’ll “Keep the Fire Burning” with Family, Fellowship and Fun as we approach the holiday season. And we’ll share more on our upcoming crusade trip to Belgium and France. To God be the Glory!
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Watch The Tim and Shirley Show on Facebook, Tuesdays at 8 PM www.facebook.com/TimShirleyshow Please email your questions on Marriage & Relationships to Tim & Shirley at TimShirleyShow@gmail.com
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Care that’s in Your Corner Living with diabetes can feel like an uphill battle. Its management requires focus, dedication and a diligent care team to help keep the disease under control. At the Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology (UM CDE) at the University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, our multispecialty team of adult and pediatric endocrinologists, nurses, dieticians and certified diabetes educators partner with patients living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes to restore and maintain their quality of life. The care team at UM CDE develops individualized treatment and support plans tailored to the unique needs of diabetes patients. “We make sure that patients living with diabetes have someone in their corner to support them. Managing diabetes can be overwhelming, and people with a solid support system tend to stay on track, leading to better health and a better sense of well-being,” says Angela Ginn-Meadow, senior diabetes educator at UM CDE. Providing Support for Patients and the Community UM CDE offers two adult support groups: one for men and one for women. The groups are open to all adults living with diabetes, whether they’re a UM CDE patient, or a member of the community looking to connect with others. Each month the groups will meet at the Midtown Campus to discuss topics such as healthy eating, exercising, and medication management. During some sessions, UMMC experts will join the group to discuss diabetes complications, such as foot problems, and provide mental health resources. At other sessions, the group will tour local grocery stores or enjoy a live cooking demo, helping to strengthen their healthy meal planning skills. While men and women living with diabetes experience similar complications and lifestyle challenges, the separate support groups allow for topics that are gender-specific. Where the men’s support group will discuss sexual dysfunctions caused by diabetes, such as erectile dysfunction, the women’s support group will discuss self-care and putting themselves first. “The group also tells us what their needs are,” says Angela Ginn-Meadow. “If they want to dedicate a session to a certain topic, we can incorporate that topic into the program. For example, if the group is interested in skin care, we can discuss how diabetes affects the skin.” Each group will be led by a diabetes educator and assisted by a “diabetes superstar.” These “superstars” are current patients of UM CDE, whose experience excelling at managing their diabetes will provide the group with an extra layer of support.
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Angela Ginn-Meadow says, “Having a diabetes superstar assist with leading the sessions is all about uplifting the group. After watching and interacting with someone who is living well with diabetes, the group says, ‘I can do this too.’” Expert Diabetes and Endocrine Care At the University of Maryland Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, our a multidisciplinary team of experts have a deep understanding of the physical, cognitive, and emotional demands of diabetes and endocrine disorders affecting both adults and children. Working in collaboration with podiatrists, ophthalmologists, psychologists/psychiatrists and primary care physicians, we ensure patients receive the highest level of care for their disease. Our center offers the latest available therapies and education focusing on self-care to help patients manage their blood sugar, and prevent or minimize complications and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. Specialized diabetes services and educational programs include: • continuous glucose monitoring • insulin pump therapy • gestational diabetes program • foot care • comprehensive self-management program • nutrition therapy and meal planning • medication management Our physicians have been recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance Diabetes for their skill in providing the highest level of care, and our education program has been recognized by the American Diabetes Association for meeting its national standards for diabetes self-management education. Get the Support You Deserve! For more information or to sign-up for a support group at UM CDE, call 443-682-6893. There is no deadline for signing up. You can join throughout the year. To learn more about UM CDE, to get a free diabetes screening, or to schedule an appointment, call 443-682-6800.
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UNITY:
Are You Ready To Answer the Call? We live in a society where the strength of the church is diminished or weakened by individual personal gain. It’s a Me, myself and I mentality. The church is at HER best when the people of God come together as one body in Christ for the sole purpose of the Kingdom Agenda. Our society today eliminates the need to have long lasting relationships. Although, in God’s Kingdom His citizenship differs because the Bible tells us that one citizen has dominion over a thousand but two together gives authority over 10k! God multiplies our talents when we come together on one accord; and that places FEAR in the enemy’s camp. Satan’s political move in God’s physical house is to DIVIDE and to Conquer. 1. Satan doesn’t want the people of God to operate in oneness. 2. Satan doesn’t want the Body of Christ to agree. 3. Satan doesn’t want togetherness in the same place. Let’s Start Being REAL WITH GOD and ourselves! Beloved you will find that today will BEGIN to be the BEST DAYS of your LIFE WHEN YOU SAY YES TO GOD!
Evangelist LaRondi Nicole Flowers
1ST NEW LIFE BAPTIST CHURCH
3215 W. Belvedere Ave. • Baltimore, MD 21215 • 410.419.8841 Rev. Washington M. Flowers, Pastor & Founder UMUSTBREAL@GMAIL.COM “A Small Family Environment Where We Say Yes To God!” (Worship begins at 11:00 am in the lower level of Brown’s Memorial Baptist Church-Denmore Avenue Entrance)
PROGRESSIVE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF MARYLAND HELD AT: CHRISTIAN LOVE BAPTIST CHURCH • 4198 FALLS RD, BALTIMORE, MD 21211
PASTOR WILLIAM BAILEY SATURDAY NOVEMBER 27TH • 12pm Calling Ushers • Deacons • Deaconess • Youth • Choir Members, etc. WE'RE ON THE MOVE!
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to your good health
The world we live in is more divisive than ever. We are separated by political, racial, religious, socioeconomic, educational and gender differences. These divisions have increasingly shown that the phrase in the pledge of allegiance “one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all” is far from the truth. Our disconnection from one another has been imposed upon us by the current cultural and social climate. The ideals that we assumed people lived by are now shown to be a farce and have had life changing and sometimes deadly consequences. This is the world as we now know it but it is not how God intended for us to live. God created us in his image and desired that we all live as brothers and sisters in Christ. In John 17 Jesus prayed, “May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” We were created to love one another. The greatest commandment is to love God with all of your heart, mind and soul. The second is to love your neighbor as you love yourself. This love is unconditional and not about whether or not you
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agree with them, look like them, live in the same neighborhood, or have the same background. The world needs Christians to live in the light of God’s love. We are to share this love and connect with each other through the ministry of reconciliation. In Luke 6 Jesus says, “But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.” These words are reminders that we must choose love over hate, peace over confusion and compassion over cold-heartedness. Each of us has a role to play in reaching common ground. It won’t be easy but using our faith, our confidence and our hope to combat the negativity of this world, we can work towards making a Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, difference. Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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woman’s perspective
Preparing . . . Positioning . . . Pouring
If we turn on the television and watch just one hour of programming, by the end of it as women we will have been bombarded with tons of messages. Most of them will be subtle yet powerful. They will tell us how we need to dress and behave to be beautiful, accepted, appreciated and wanted at every age. Regardless of our age there will be some message that tells us we aren’t good enough and need to alter ourselves. If we are not careful as women of God, we buy into those messages and conform to the secular standard of worth. However, we must recognize as Godly women our value and worth are innately connected to our Father and His likeness in us. No matter our age, we are beautiful, accepted, appreciated and wanted because of the grace of God. Though our focus, desires, skills, abilities and goals may change over the years; regardless of our age we shine like the crowns we are because of the Spirit of God on the inside of us. There are three phases that we will pass through and at each phase we are to be a reflection of Him. 1. PREPARING- Ecclesiastes 2:1 tells us “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come…” There is an absolute beauty and grace to serving God while you are still young. Most of us if we are honest can look back at decisions made in our youth and see their major impact on our adulthood. What a blessing it is to discover a relationship with God while you are young and allowing God to shape your youth. This passage says to serve him “before the difficult days come.” This is hard to comprehend as a 24 24 November November2018 2018| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
youth but as an adult it is easy to grasp. There are many of us who would love to trade places even just for a day with our younger selves and return to days where bills, relationships, children, careers, et cetera were not on our minds. For all of my little sisters out there I urge you to take heed to this passage. Remembering God in your youth will preserve you for the rest of your life. It will keep you! And you can have fun in God, it will not be boring. However, it will be the kind of fun that you can have and still be able to look in the mirror without shame. It pays to serve God while you are young! 2. POSITIONING- As you come of age and continue to walk with God He brings you to a place of positioning. After you have been reared and been impacted by the legacies before you comes the time when you must begin to create your own. Proverbs 31:16-17 in The Living Bible says, “She goes out to inspect a field and buys it; with her own hands she plants a vineyard. 17 She is energetic, a hard worker…” It is God’s desire that we allow Him to lead every area of our lives and reflect Him and His glory. As godly women we don’t have to focus solely on our exterior. If we fully surrender and allow God to position us in the center of His purpose, the glory that will shine in us will attract all that we need in our lives and more. We must be diligent about seeking God’s purpose for us and allow Him to establish us spiritually, mentally, emotionally, financially, and socially. This will give us the greatest sense of worth,
validation, and significance. 3. POURING- Proverbs 31 describes to us the ideal woman as God describes her. Verse 25 says something very powerful. The Living Bible tells us, “…she has no fear of old age.” One of the messages most targeted to women is that youth is beautiful and older age isn’t as beautiful. We go through great lengths to appear forever young instead of embracing the beauty and season of older age. Titus 2:3-4 gives us the perfect illustration of the grace that we need from older women. There is nothing more beautiful and graceful than experience. Younger women today are especially in need of valuable lessons from the seniors among us. As women we can’t be afraid of aging for fear that we aren’t as attractive and needed. The longer we live, in essence, perhaps the more we are truly stunning from the inside out. Ladies we must reflect God’s glory and virtue at every age. We have to redefine the secular standard of beauty, value and significance and let the glory of God inside of us to cause us to truly stand out from youth Tiffany Bethea to maturing. She-EO Life Mentor www.Tiffanybethea.com
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Lady C Speaks
Greatness is such a monopolized word. And most of us would agree that greatness is not attainable unless you first believe that one is born with and for a purpose. How can I be great at something if I don’t know why I exist? How can I accomplish something extraordinary when I don’t know what I was purposed to do? Many of us work hard all of our lives not to just do something well but to do something great. We have self-help books, and fix my life television shows all in mind to help us understand our purpose to accomplish something great. Greatness is the icing on the cake. It’s an emotional craving that many of us have and desire. We see with our eyes what others have and sometimes say to ourselves I want to be great like so and so but we have no clue what it took for that person to get where they are today. The definition of purpose is the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists. And the definition of greatness is the quality of being great, distinguished or eminent. Therefore, some may believe that their existence only has credible substance if it is distinguished from someone else. But you also must have a measure of belief that in order to fulfill not just purpose but greatness, will cost you great pain. One day your purpose can cause for celebration, and another day you feel like God has abandoned you. One day your purpose can cause for dancing and laughter and the next tears and discouragement. If one is going to announce that greatness is truly attainable there must be a conceivable fact that it will come with a journey of ups and downs. There is no quick fix. There is no snap of the finger. There is no 10 steps and it’s yours. In order to be destined for greatness it will cost you something. They did Jesus the same way. One day in the fulfilment of his purpose they are shouting and rejoicing saying Hosanna to the son of David. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, but still in the fulfillment of His greater purpose those palms turned to nails and they said crucify him. Don’t be fooled, you can’t say what you want, do what you want and live how you want and think greatness is going to fall pleasantly in your lap. But if you are indeed destined for greatness you are also destined for greater sacrifice. It’s easy for me to say you have purpose, but it’s another thing for me to say live your greater purpose. Because in order for one to live out his or her greater purpose means that the vicissitudes of life will bring much joy as well as much pain. Sometimes, you will experience 26 November November2018 2018||Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 26
so much pain that it will make you wonder where God is. Recently, I preached a message entitled, “Are you ready to be destined for greatness?” Many of us desire it, gravitate to the idea of accomplishing it, but what about the pain that comes along with it? I know many of us don’t like to talk about pain because we don’t see pain as a blessing. We don’t see pain as a benefit. We see it as an unwelcomed suffering, but beloved if only you could see that your pain helped to mold your character and your days of disappointment strengthened your faith, maybe you would view your pain differently. I submit that it’s time for you to count it ALL joy! The bible tells us to give thanks in all things, for this is the will of God concerning us. In this month reflect on the sum, not the some. If you are ready to be destined for greatness you have to be have a made up mind that all things are working together for my good. I am not making light of what you have been through but I am challenging your perspective. I know this may not have been the easiest year. Lord knows I wasn’t prepared for the Lord to call home my brother at the tender age of 26. A lot has happened this year. Some days I had laughter and other days I had tears but it’s all a part of the journey. Jesus didn’t accomplish greatness by only healing the sick and raising the dead, but he also accomplished greatness when he gave his life and was crucified that we may live. The true essence of greatness goes far beyond the acts or actions that others recognize you for, but when you can say even in Min. Carenda D. McCray your darkest moments, “Lord, not (Lady C) my will but thy will be done, that’s when you have truly I would love to hear from you! www.farenterprises.biz embraced greatness fully.” info@farenterprises.biz Remember beloved, if Twitter @cdpgem you are ready to be destined Facebook/ farenterprises/ carendamccray for greatness, count it 888-473-2221 ALL joy!
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trinkets to triumph
Divine Dining
Q&A
By Tracey Nicole George
Imagine an exclusive dinner for two with you and the one that you absolutely adore. Picture partaking in a divine meal that is fit for royalty. Envision your chair being pulled out for you to sit at the table complete with a tablecloth made from the finest linen, the world’s best china, crystal, silverware, the best beverages and the finest food. Visualize a spread of all your favorite dishes, drinks and desserts. Think of all of the cares of the world being erased and the host for your meal telling you “I got this.” This description depicts your divine Father and your dinner date with destiny. This is a divine dining experience. If God was going to prepare a meal for you and set a table, as detail-oriented He is, He would go with the formal setting. Just think about all of the intricate details and instructions He gave for building Noah’s Ark and Tabernacle of Moses. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, take advantage of your Kingdom benefits and truly cast your cares on Him because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7), you are able to reap the harvest of your inheritance. God promised to prepare a table for you in the presence of your enemies (Psalm 23:5). This is to let you know that no matter what comes your way, it will work out for your good. At this glorious gathering, it is up to you whether or not you dine sufficiently. Divine dining with Him covers you with unlimited possessions. The Bible is bursting with blessings He bestowed upon His beloved. There are numerous Biblical examples of God orchestrating feasts that led to major breakthroughs. Exodus 12:1-51 is an example of God preparing a table during the first Passover (the night God killed the first-born male of every Egyptian and their livestock but passed over the Children of Israel). It records that one-night Pharaoh told Moses and Aaron “rise, go out from among my people both you and the Children of Israel.” They agreed to be evicted from the land, but God had a plan. God prepared a table for them by giving them specific instructions on what to eat. He told them to prepare a lamb, unleavened bread and bitter herbs. This was kind of a “to go” meal. The last meal before they went on the run. This was fast food to them. He let them know that you will need to hurry and eat. He charged them to eat with your belt on your waist, sandals on your feet and your staff in hand. Moses told the children of Israel to ask the Egyptians for articles of clothing, articles of silver, and articles of gold. God gave them favor with the Egyptians, so they freely gave them whatever they asked to borrow. This divine dining experience resulted in relief and release for the Children of Israel. They went from rags to riches and from bondage to blessings because of their obedience to partake in this meal. This divine dining experience led them to their Promise Land. In the Book of Ruth, Ruth received a meal and a deal! In Ruth Chapter 2, Ruth’s divine dining experience came with major fringe benefits. Ruth was gleaning in the field of Boaz, a man of great wealth that just happened to be related to her late husband and the family’s redeemer. After inquiring and finding out who this dear damsel was, Boaz instructed his men not to touch her. He told them to let her glean among the sheaves and even instructed them to drop some on purpose. He also told them to give her access to drink as much as she wants from the vessels. At mealtime, she was invited to the table to eat and drink. She was even allowed to dip her bread in the vinegar. Some of the other reapers were probably like, “Who is she? She got dip too?!” Research suggests 28 November 2018 | Grace&Glory
that this was key because vinegar was used as sauce and if you were able to dip your bread in it, it cooled you down after being in the hot sun reaping all day. She got the equivalent of the chips with the dip and if you love chips you can relate to this delectable combination. She was also told to eat until you are full. She did just that and even was able to bring a bit home to her mother-in-law, Naomi. This meal was the beginning of her breakthrough. Fast forwarding in the story, Ruth ends up marrying Boaz and becomes a part of the lineage of Jesus Christ. She experienced famine to feasting from reaping in the right place. God can meet you right where you are and change your situation. Ruth had no idea her date with destiny would begin from reaping from her redeemer during a meal after a day’s work. Another divine dining experience can be found in 1 Kings 17:11-16. Elijah, the prophet, encountered a widow gathering goods to make a final meal for her and her son during the famine. He told her to make a small cake for him before she made their meal. The widow informed the prophet that she only had enough for one last meal for her and her son before they died from the famine. Elijah assured her that if she made a meal for him first, provision would be provided until God sent rain and the famine was over. She obeyed the prophet and was able to experience many meals from making a decision to obey the prophet. Obeying and believing in God provides you with everything you need. God can and will provide a table for you to daily load you with all of the benefits to sustain you (Psalm 68:19). No matter what is going on around you, God will always provide even in the midst of what seems to be lack. Breaking bread with Him gives you access to drink from His cup that never dries up. As a member of His royal family, it’s important that you take advantage of all of the privileges you are entitled to receive and experience. Although, God’s timing for you and your neighbor is different, everyone gets to eat but not necessarily at the same time. One may eat first but there’s always room at the table for others to eat. Your gift will make room for you for divine dining. In Luke 22, Jesus dined with His disciples during the Last Supper. He let them know that He was going to prepare an eternal table for them to experience everlasting life in Heaven. You are also cordially invited to this divine dining experience. As you enter into this month of Thanksgiving that kicks of the season of celebrating your Savior, remember to designate divine dining dates with Him to enjoy His presence. In the hustle and bustle of the season, remember to find time to break bread with Him. Many meals will also be shared among loved ones, family and friends that will range from to go meals to fine dining. During these dates remember to show and share your gratitude and graciousness of your loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When you seek Him, His divine kingdom and His righteousness first, all things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33). The result is always a shift from fast food to fine dining. It is a divine all you can eat buffet. Tracey Nicole George Bon Appétit!
www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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NEW SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH 2100 N. Monroe Street - Harold A. Carter Way Baltimore, Maryland 21217
The Progressive Shiloh Workers of New Shiloh Baptist Church
The Morgan State University Choir Benefitting The Progressive Shiloh Workers Scholarship Fund
“All In; Making a Difference in the Lives of the Next Generation.”
Sunday, November 11, 2018 6:00pm Sister Ilka Robinson-Eaton and Sister Linda Mason, Co-Leaders Gail J. Adams, President Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr., Pastor “A Church Determined To Live With Christ” 30 November 2018 | Grace&Glory
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