Grace&Glory 1
scripture scripture page
Clergy Appreciation Month
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But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
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That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
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For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
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For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
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And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
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Grace&Glory 3
™
October 2021
on the cover: Apostle Jekia L. Ledbetter Victory Ministries of Christ 240 S. Hilton Street Baltimore, MD 21229 www.victoryministriesofchrist.com
Cover Story pgs 10-13 October is Clergy Appreciation Month! We are celebrating the Affirmation and Commissioning of The Reverend Jekia L. Ledbetter as Apostle. Apostle Jekia L. Ledbetter is the Founder and Pastor of Victory Church & Ministries. We talk with Apostle Ledbetter exclusively about this prophetic next step for her life.
Healthy Soul 16 JOY BRINGER
Season Bowers
All You Can Eat Fruit
28 MONTHLY MANNA
Min. Carenda Deonne
Live A Principle Driven Life
20 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
32 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Minister Tracey George
Pastor Rhoda Turner
Join The J.A.M.
What Are You Pushing Through
4 October 2021
Healthy Mind 24 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Changes and Challenges!
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2
Healthy Life
Contributors............................................ 6
From the Editor....................................... 8
34 HEALTH MATTERS
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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Contributors 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
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Rhoda Turner Season Bowers GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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DR. CARLA DEBNAM Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5. MIN. TRACEY GEORGE Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church. MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration. DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University. PASTOR RHODA TURNER Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ. SEASON BOWERS Season Bowers- is a Pastor, radio host, and Joy bringer! After spending over 20 years as a professional actor on stage, the Lord called her into full-time ministry. Season is passionate about releasing freedom and joy to the Glory of God in every way she can everywhere she goes.
UPDATE Former Ravens Player Lional Dalton Receives Lifesaving Kidney Transplant
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from the editor
Jackie
EPPS
8 October 2021
Owner/Publisher Grace & Glory Magazine
God’s Servant October is National Clergy Appreciation Month. Pastor Appreciation Day began with the establishment of Clergy Appreciation Month. In 1Timothy 5:17, Paul began the concept of clergy appreciation when he stated that the elders of the church are worthy of a double honor. He reiterated this idea in 1Thessalonians 5:12-13, when he stated that those who work hard among you should be held in the highest regard for their work. This idea became Clergy Appreciation Month in 1992, established by pastors and religious workers. This month congregations all over the nation will take time out to honor their Pastors. This year in particular, we celebrate these men and women of God who went beyond the call of duty as they navigated through unchartered waters as a result of the pandemic. Our Pastors and leaders had to make quick and crucial decisions to make sure the word of God was not shut down. Our Pastors and leaders have been diligent, innovative, and creative making sure their members stayed connected to the body of Christ. And as a result of their steadfast, unmovable, and abounding faith, many have come to the knowledge of Christ in unprecedented ways. It is Biblical for us to recognize and honor the men and women of God who serve faithfully the flock of God. In fact, Paul wrote the following words to the church at Thessalonica, “Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work . . .” (I Thessalonians 5:12-13)
It is clear from scripture that the faithful and dedicated Pastors of our churches are worthy of appreciation and honor. Clergy Appreciation Month provides an excellent opportunity for our churches to affirm their love and appreciation for those who are called by God and who lead their congregations in fulfilling the Great Commission. Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do His work and build up the church, the Body of Christ. “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.” (Jeremiah 3:15) Pastors and other ministers work tirelessly caring for their flock. A minister's work day is rarely a "95" job, and they cannot go home at the "end" of the day and just leave all the occupational problems at the office. A Pastor is never off-duty and is always on call. If we stop for a moment and think about all a pastor does we would be more sensitive to our Pastor’s needs. We should always lift our Pastors in prayer and ask the Lord to surround them with loving care, to give them strength and walk with them, and to help them with the burdens that they must bear. Many of us have been members of our churches for many years. If you look back over the years, I believe that you would agree that our pastors have played major roles in the fabric of our lives. They have prayed for us, taught us, corrected us and guided us. Our pastors have celebrated and laughed with us in the good times, cried with us in times of sorrow and loved us when we weren’t so lovable. As we celebrate Clergy Appreciation Month, remember to thank God for the precious gifts He has bestowed upon us, His anointed men and women of God, our beloved Pastors! And He gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and some evangelists; and some pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-12) Grace&Glory 9
Q&A
Jekia ledbetter
Apostle
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Q&A
Q & A I n t e rv i e w with
Apostle Jekia L. Ledbetter
G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, welcome back to Grace & Glory hunger to know God, and the people that had no clue there Magazine! We are delighted to feature you for Clergy was a God. As my life changed, a new hunger grew rapidly Appreciation Month! First and foremost, congratulations are on the inside of me that required the fulfillment of God’s Love, in order for your affirmation and commissioning as Apostle Spirit and Word. This fulfillment introduces heaven’s true Jekia Ledbetter. How are you feeling, is this surreal for you? works, vision, and Love towards the people of God, and it Apostle Ledbetter: Thanks again became my new mission to help people for allowing me to share and to see that heaven can be brought unto be a part of the Grace & Glory earth. I am not surprised but excited family. I am overjoyed in knowing to see how God is bringing my life that God’s everlasting plan for together. This journey has taught me my life is greater than I could that (Romans 8:28) is TRUE. When ever imagine. God’s plan started I really look back over my life, I see with me finally accepting my true everything as being the manifested identity and embracing the work of seed of God’s Word. It’s one level to the Apostle. I realize that I have hear God say “that He is going to do been doing apostolic work from the something for you” but it’s a greater beginning. I just didn’t realize its level to experience the landmark of full identity or weight. It was only manifestation that once was prophesied when the voice of God unfolded to you! the final confirmation, instructing me to look back over my life, my G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, during these ministerial work and life survival, last couple of years, have you ever that I realized it was the building thought to yourself what have I signed pattern for the fivefold ministry, the myself up for; have you just wanted to Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor through in the towel? and Teachers. (Ephesians 4:11) This Apostle Ledbetter: ABSOUTELY!!! I blueprint comes at a time to help don’t know any Pastor or clergy person others to see the restoration and the Pastor Chris Ledbetter, Archbishop Ralph Dennis, that could honestly say that they have Apostle Jekia Ledbetter need of Victorious living that only not faced or came upon the season of comes through Jesus Christ! walking away. The last four years of my life has honestly been the roughest season I ever experienced. I G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, let’s go back to when your ministry lost my grandfather (Robert Wallace), grandmother (Pauline journey began. Looking back at where you were when you Lucas) and recently my younger brother (George Lucas). started, are you at all surprised at where you are today? Never in a million years did I ever imagine that I would be my Apostle Ledbetter: I have been in ministry for 19 years and mother’s only child; not like this. Their deaths took something have served as the founding pastor of Victory Ministries out of me one by one, and I still had to maintain being a wife, of Christ in Baltimore, Maryland for 14 years. My past mother, grandmother, pastor and business owner. Everyone life message is simple, “I might not be qualified but I was always expects that because you are a strong leader or person, graced, with oil for it.” Today I celebrate that I am operating that you don’t need encouragement, well I did. I felt lost, alone, in my full identity of the Apostle. My ministry focus in the unfinished, incomplete…such a range of emotions. When your beginning was to gather people together, that gathering spirit is tired and you feel lost beyond the depths of your soul, it involved the people who loved God, the people that had the Continued on page 12 Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 11 11
Q&A
Continued from page 11
can paralyze you; and that’s exactly how I felt. I have felt many times like just throwing my whole life in the trash (LOL). I was now in the position of need from others what I had consciously been to so many others. The problem was I didn’t know where to start for myself. I had to remember the teaching that I once shared at many workshops, preaching engagements and counseling sessions that empowered others. I had to realize, it’s not the process of life that’s my problem it’s my positioning in the process that was becoming the problem. I had to position myself to practice what I preached, that means I had to take time out for me (Jekia Ledbetter) I had to get me a good therapist and realize that I am not a build-a-bear; it is not my assignment to build everyone. Sometimes you can want more for a person than they could ever want for themselves; it can literally drain and mess you up. I had to learn that I am not God. I had to learn, that I could only go and operate where the grace of God would allow. I had to redefine life’s purpose for me; if I had never gone through the grieving process, I would never enjoy the gift of grief. God taught me through Lamentations 3:22-23, “It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness” Even in my darkest season God remained faithful. God in His compassion shows us not just how to survive but, how to survive on the broken pieces. He wants us to finish the course strong and healthily! G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, please share with us how you knew you were being called to this next level in your life, the calling of an Apostle? Did you realize then God had called you to an assignment of this magnitude? Apostle Ledbetter: My life felt boring like something was missing; even though I had a love for Christ, I still felt like I had outgrown my actual life. I had a desire to want more, to learn more, and I had become thirsty. I started exploring Christian worships, training, and empowerment classes, but with all this greatness I still felt empty. I kept going to the water, where I would pray for God’s understanding and directions. It was there at the water that I heard the voice of God crystal clear saying, “My Apostle, the builder.” That moment literally blew me away. For two years straight I cried, and God just kept speaking through my dreams and through open visions saying,
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“My Apostle, the builder.” It became an unshakable call. I started reading books on the Apostolic and I began to study the life, the calling, and the works of the Apostles (My God). Something in me was coming alive and its reproductive power was growing fast and boldly. My appetite for others to know the Truth about who God really is grew stronger. My patience grew in such a way that people could not ignore the change within me. It was called spiritual growth & maturity, but at the same time an honorable sternness of authority arose in me. It allowed me to stand strong in protection of God’s people, love, and Word. I began to have massive dreams and open visions of building, establishing, and decorating many places as fill up stations, almost like a gas station. These places would be the place that people would get filled up with the joy, strength, and the gifts of the Holy Spirits. My heart began to unashamedly open up with a burning desire to help leaders who felt as if they were leading people unhealthily, in bondage, stuck or just lost in their authority. This awakening would speak internationally, that God is not finished yet, with the church. He has indeed heard our humble cries and is bringing revival to His leaders, His church, and the Work of its ministry. G&G: There are many questions and explanations that surround an Apostle. Would you help us understand what is an Apostle, the calling of an Apostle, and the role of an Apostle? Apostle Ledbetter: Out of all the callings and gifts that the twenty first century Church has now accepted as being authentic, apostles are the most controversial of all the five post ascension gifts of Christ. “Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men…And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature the fullness of Christ...” Ephesians 4: 8,11–13 (KJV). Today, many are trying to gain a biblical understanding of what an apostle is, the word “apostle” comes from the Greek word Apostolos, which means “one sent from or forth, a messenger, delegate.” A modern-day Apostle in the tradition of the
Q&A
Apostolic-Prophetic movement is one who is "called and sent by Christ to have the spiritual authority, character, gifts and abilities to successfully reach and establish people in Kingdom truth and order, especially through founding and overseeing local churches.” ~Archbishop Ralph L. Dennis made this statement, “It is not a question of rising high; it is a question of becoming low enough. It is not a question of becoming a “lord over God’s heritage”, but it is a question of if a man/ woman shall be called to an apostle whether he can get low enough, humble enough to say from the depths of his heart, the words of Paul, the apostle, “It is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, Christ came to save the sinner of whom I am chief.” This statement shall literally forever remain attached to my heart. G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, what happens now to your role as Elder and Pastor? How will this affirmation as Apostle affect Victory Ministries of Christ Church? Apostle Ledbetter: The grace for me as a stationary Pastor is up lifting and without the grace of God I can stand. The Bible way is what we find in Romans 5:1-2, which says, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” (NIV) My faith and the Grace of God goes with my new assignment and I thank God for all of it. I am continuously training the leaders of VMOC to lead the Baltimore campus; for the last year I have been traveling to Atlanta, GA scouting the ground adhering to the voice of God. God is preparing me to plant a Victory Fill Up station in Jonesboro, Atlanta and then the next stop is Texas. I have people who already have moved to the destinated areas and preparation of the official move. G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, as an Apostle what do you think should be the church’s focus today? What should the church be saying and doing right now? Apostle Ledbetter: PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, STUDY and be obedient to the Will of God and follow Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” The Church’s main focus should be Revival, Love and Unity. God is not coming back for a person but a body. We the people of God need to know the present timing and season that we are now in. We need to appreciate the foundational word, act and ministry of God’s Redemption for our lives. We are in a season of Realness and authenticity; we cannot continue to preach a Word of deliverance and not ourselves be delivered. Just like we cannot preach forgiveness, yet you never forgive anyone. People are watching and there must be an urgent awakening in the Body of Christ. An awakening for those to come
alive and accept the Real Power of JESUS CHRIST. There must be a release in the Body of Christ that will produce the Real Saving Grace of Jesus Christ. There MUST BE A JUMP START, that will take us back to BASIC training, teaching, and learning. A jumpstart that will allow us to embrace the sovereignty power of God. Listen people of God, we must sustain a lifestyle of biblical principles and biblical living that will speak the boldness to all ages, wealth, and gender, that God is not a mystery but a necessity for our lives. G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, is there still more that you are looking forward to in the future for yourself and for Victory Ministries of Christ Church? Apostle Ledbetter: Absolutely Yes, we have an ordination coming up that will allow us to add two deacons, five elders and the installment of two pastors to the fold. You can look forward to the arising of Victory Covenant Churches & Ministries, which is a fellowship that will build, support, train and educate leaders to operate healthily in the fivefold ministry. G&G: Apostle Ledbetter, we thank God for you and the Victory Ministries of Christ Church and what you are doing for the kingdom. Apostle Ledbetter: I thank God for this time and opportunity that has allowed me to share and celebrate with the Grace & Glory family. It has been a wonderful time of sharing and talking about the goodness of Jesus Christ. I have had many trials, tribulations, and circumstances, but I can say that I have also had many joys, great accomplishments and victories. I pray that as you read this article you will be forever blessed and encouraged to know if you keep your hands in God’s hands no one can or ever pluck you out! (What God has for you is for you)! Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 13 13
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joy bringer
ALL YOU CAN
EAT FRUIT We have rounded the corner, and the end of the year is in sight. The last few months of the year bring us many holidays and traditions - most of which include food! Sweet treats, homemade goodies, and edible gifts are everywhere. Moderation is key to make it through the marathon of celebratory eating and holiday indulgences. But don’t you wish that wasn't the case? Maybe it’s just me, but one of the aspects I hope is included in heaven is all you can eat! “Welcome my good and faithful servant, the feast is this way! And there’s no need for stretchy pants.” Abundance is a concept in scripture that I love. Abundant life (John 10:10). Abundant blessings (2 Cor. 9:8). Abundant provision (Deut. 28:12). The list goes on, abundantly! God is a God of abundance, and He wants us to receive and enjoy it. He especially wants us to indulge in an abundance of fruit. The familiar list of the fruit of the Spirit is found in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. But I think the most important part of these verses is the last seven words almost never included. Paul ends this list by saying, “Against these things there is no law.” Paul was writing to Hebrew people. They were very familiar with law and limits. They knew how far or how close, how much or how little, when and where for just about everything. Limitations and rules dictated their lives, so this was very good news! Paul is saying that there is no limit to the amount of fruit we can have, we have total permission to stuff ourselves and get fat on fruit. 16 October 2021
Sounds great doesn’t it? Who doesn’t want unlimited love and joy?! Abundant kindness and peace? Yes, please! Unending patience sounds like a dream. So why then are we not all so full of fruit and dripping with abundance? Because there is a catch. It’s up to us to cultivate. Just like following Jesus takes intentional effort to put one foot in front of the other, so does the cultivation of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. The mere presence of the Holy Spirit within us won't do the trick. If that were the case, most of us wouldn’t have a least favorite fruit (come on, you know it’s patience). If just the presence of the Holy Spirit caused us to produce abundant fruit we’d live in perfect harmony with everyone. Cultivating takes work.
The word “pruning” doesn’t sound so bad, but what’s challenging is what it means - cutting. Ouch! When I look at a beautiful fruit tree or rose bush with an abundance of beauty on it I don’t think, “I know what I should do, I should cut off those branches!” It doesn’t make sense to us. But ask a gardener and they will get right in there and chop away! Cutting off what is not only dead or weak, but also the branches that are only somewhat productive. This will lead to a healthier and abundantly productive plant.
Season BOWERS
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Even though I know that pruning is good for the plant, it’s sometimes still hard. I will look at a plant and think, “It looks great! I don’t want to cut it back and lose what is already pretty good.” We think this way about ourselves too. “I’m a good person!” “I’m fine, I’m not hurting anyone.” “I’ve grown so much already, you should have seen me a decade ago!” But again, pruning isn’t just for dead branches or our sinful ways. This is why it was possible for Jesus to be pruned (John 15:2). He didn’t have any bad branches, but he did grow and mature (Luke 2:52), and in order for that to happen, he had to be pruned.
The Lord isn’t withholding his goodness from us. It’s our own wounding and the lies of the enemy that keep us from desiring more. Fear keeps us from growing deeper, stronger, taller, and producing even more fruit. We become satisfied with a minimal amount. We have something that resembles love, occasional joy,
fleeting peace, barely any patience, kindness when necessary, faithfulness to those who are faithful to us, we’re gentle with babies, and good when someone is looking...oh ya, and self-control, well, it depends. It’s important to remember that the fruit of the Spirit is not just the result of God’s presence in our lives; it’s the manner in which the Spirit works. The cultivating work of the Holy Spirit is kind, loving, and gentle. It’s even joyful! You can trust in his goodness. The offer is all you can eat fruit. We don’t need to settle for just a few bruised pieces. And the best part about an abundance of fruit? It’s not just for you. The more you eat the more others enjoy. Joyfully, Season Bowers Joy Bringer Grace&Glory 17
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Kingdom Worship
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trinkets to triumph
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Tracey
GEORGE
JOIN THE
J.A.M.
Join the J.A.M.! Usually when you think of a jam, you think of being stuck and not moving. When you join a Biblically-based J.A.M., you join the company of fine leaders such as J-Joshua, A-Aaron, and M-Moses that is moving forward in purpose and leading God’s people in a mighty way. These three men of God were among the greatest leaders of all time. This month as you celebrate and honor your leader and pastor for Clergy Appreciation Month (CAM), also remember and reflect on the leader you were called to be. You are chosen, a part of a royal priesthood, and a part of a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9). This is the type of J.A.M. that you would want to join. J – Join Joshua and choose today to serve the Lord with your whole heart (Joshua 24:15). Be a part of God’s chosen generation. God promised Joshua that He would be with him like He was with Moses (Joshua 1:5). He will be with you too. Joshua served under Moses and then at the appointed time Joshua understood his assignment, had faith in God, and was courageous enough to believe God to be Moses’s successor to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 3:1-17). He took the time while he served as Moses’s assistant and gleaned all he could from Moses to become a great leader to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. Join Joshua in the J.A.M. and know that, with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26) even against the odds. Joshua, along with Caleb, were the only two out of the 12 spies to have the confidence that the people dwelling in their Promised Land could be conquered (Numbers 13:25-33). They were not intimidated by size when they knew the size of their God. Even if you are one of the few that has the confidence to conquer a feat, let no one falter your faith in going forward to conquer it and prove how strong and mighty your God is. A – Aaron was anointed and you are too. Aaron was assigned to be Moses’s mouthpiece and spokesman to relay to the Israelites the messages Moses received from God (Exodus 4:16). Join the J.A.M. like Aaron and use your mouth to share the Gospel with others. Aaron was also the first high priest of God in Israel (Exodus 28:1; Exodus 29:9). You also have the kingdom benefit of being a part of this royal priesthood. Aaron understood his assignment, walked in it, and set the standard for his sons to follow. Aaron is our example of service in the Lord’s house done in excellence and upholding a standard. M – Manifest it like Moses. Moses made it happen even when it was out of his comfort zone. Your best self is usually birthed outside of your comfort zone. Being uncomfortable can cause you to become more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37). Join the J.A.M. like Moses and become the intense intercessor Moses was and intercede on behalf of your friends, family, and loved ones to God. Like Moses, spend so much time with God that people see a glow from being in the presence of the Lord like Moses (Exodus 34:35). Join the J.A.M. like Moses with the confidence to know that God can do the impossible like parting the Red Sea and leading a nation through safely to the other side (Exodus 14:15-31). Are you ready to join the J.A.M.? Join the J.A.M. and level up as the leader God is calling you to be. Just like you can find faults with all three of these men, it didn’t stop God from using them for His glory and it should not stop you. Join the J.A.M., just do your best, and God will make up the difference. Like Joshua, Aaron and Moses, be willing to serve as you lead. Jesus is the perfect example because He came to serve not to be served (Matthew 20:28) and gave you the keys to the Kingdom (Matthew 16:19) as a part of His royal family to do the same. J.A.M. on! Elder-designate Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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to your good health
Dr. Carla
DEBNAM
24 October October 2021 24 2021
Changes and Challenges These past several months have been full of changes and challenges. The political, mental and spiritual fluctuations have caused many to give up or push forward without counting the cost. Overcoming changes and challenges is a process that requires patience and persistence. We do not get through to the other side without enduring a workout on this side of the trial, test or difficulty. The struggle is the meat of our testimony, and the leftovers are what remains, what people see on the other side. Sometimes with a meal the leftovers are better than the original one. Job had a blessed life, lost almost everything he worked for including his children but on the other side of his changes and challenges was a double blessing. He was faced with grief, sickness and loss in a short period of time but held on to his faith. This was not easy but was a result of a life of faith, prayer and dedication to God. The fact that we are still here is evidence of the double blessing in our lives. Our faith has been the foundation that has kept our
minds, bodies and souls from perishing under the weight of life’s challenges. Prosperity is amassed in many ways. Our spiritual prosperity increases when we let God turn around our lives and give us beauty for our ashes and joy for our mourning. The changes are hitting us from all sides and with several variations of the same struggle but here we are surviving, thriving and still giving God the glory. That’s the thing about changes and challenges; they manage to get the best out of us. It’s like squeezing grapes to get the juices in order to make wine. Life puts the squeeze on us and then we come out as fine wine ready to be admired and enjoyed by those around us. When the issues come, we would rather run and hide but that is not always an option. Like the changing seasons, we see life progress no matter what is happening around us. People come and go. Politicians come and go. Styles come and go. The key is to hold on to your faith throughout life’s ups and downs and you will be able to withstand the changes and challenges of life. Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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26 October 2021
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monthly manna
Min. Carenda Deonne
28 October October 2021 28 2021
Life
Live a Principle Driven L
Many of you know that this year is wrapping up. We have just entered the fourth quarter of 2021. It is pressing that we finish this year strong to start next year well. To accomplish that, we must stay focused living a principle driven life. Principles are the promise of assurance. Meaning the promise of certainty. It is very important that we don’t just live a life based on good intentions. Intention means it may or may not be the case, or it may or may not happen; but it is not promised. However, principles are the promise of assurance. This is a great time for you to take inventory. When you reflect on your life, and the decisions you made thus far this year, has it been based solely upon good intentions, or living a principle driven life? The good book, the bible, is filled with an abundance of principles. A couple are, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added
unto you.” (Matthew 6:33). Another one is, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.” (Psalm 37:23) But today we are going to look at one of my favorite principles in the good book. It can be found in Galatians 6:7-9 and it states. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap! Do you understand that whatsoever you sow, you will reap that in return? Do you understand how powerful that is? What is imperative about principles are they are not limited. You can’t take a principle and say I only want to apply this to a slice of the pie, or a percentage of my life. No, a principle is a principle. Whatsoever! It is not limited. It doesn’t give just a certain category or type. It says whatsoever. A principle is a principle, and it applies to ever area of your life. I will say that again, it applies to every area of your life. That means if you sow kindness, you reap kindness. If you sow compassion, you reap compassion. If you sow deceitfulness and pride, you reap a fall. So, what am I saying to you? You can have the best intention and still be unprofitable. If you go to the store right now and purchase a seed to plant, you can have good intentions for it to grow but until you plant that seed in a pot with some dirt, it will not produce a harvest. It’s time to plant good seeds, and live a principle driven life. If you haven’t been living a principle driven life, today is a good day to start! Know the difference between intention and principle and THRIVE! I am challenging you to start living a principle driven life! Be patient, wait on the Lord and be of good cheer! For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap! Min Carenda Deonne www.carendadeonne.com
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30 October 2021
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a woman’s perspective
PASTOR RHODA
TURNER
What Are You Pushing Through?
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13. We can do anything because God has strengthened us to do it. My mother’s favorite scripture is the scripture listed below, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians5:18.
I remember it just like it was yesterday. What is the "it"? The "it" is labor and delivery. A 20+ year memory readily accessible. I was in the labor and delivery room preparing to give birth to my first born daughter. Within that experience were a whole lot of emotions. I was excited about being a mom as well as petrified about the labor and delivery sections that I couldn’t avoid. I was in about the 12th hour of the entire process, and I had to use the restroom. I vaguely remember going into the restroom and asking my husband to come in there. When he arrived in the room, he found me in the midst of attempting to pull off all that tape so that I could remove my IV’s. He shouted out "stop" at me, to which I ignored him. Not knowing what else to do, he called my sister into the room, where they were able to stop me. He asked what I was doing and I told him that I was preparing to go home! Now, I hadn’t even delivered my daughter yet. However, I had made up in my mind that I was over THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE! Instead of bailing on my original plan, I decided to abandon my new plan instead. I stayed and gave birth to a beautiful baby girl that gives me so much joy. Seeing and experiencing difficult situations have a way of making us want to give up when situations get rough or difficult. It’s easy to give up and walk away. It’s hard to stay in the midst of a situation when things are difficult. If we look through the Word of God it shows us Scriptures that we can use when things get rough. 32 October 2021
We may not always understand the "why" of why things happen, but the 23rd division of Psalms sums up how we should endure the journey of our life's situation. The enemy wants us to give up and not push through. He’s rewarded by our failure because in his mind he has won when we give up. Instead of giving up we surrender to His rest. We allow ourselves to be led by still waters, and He will restore our souls. There's an abundance of promises in this one chapter that becomes the blueprint of how to get through the tough times. I’m so appreciative to know that God was with me 20+ years ago in that labor and delivery room, and that He has been with me every day before that and every day since that. I’m not turning away from God; I'm going to go through the labor and the pain, because the reward is so much greater than what I’ve been through. So whatever you are pushing through, I would encourage you to not quit, don’t stop, don’t give up and keep pushing. You can do it! Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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health matters
“My mother had breast cancer. I always figured I could get it. I always made sure I got my screenings. Hearing the words, we found something on your X-rays made me cry.” “I was young, less than 50 years old. I’m a nurse, and I found the lump myself. I had to push people to test me and follow-up because of my age.” On going through treatment: “It seemed like they would never end. And, each time, I dreaded the after-effects of the drugs. But it was killing the cancer cells. I prayed that it would work.” “I held my breath and prayed each time I went for a followup scan. I hoped they didn’t find anything else.”
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. We take the time to celebrate and pray for the millions of women who are victorious winners and courageous fighters of this disease. Almost everyone knows of a mother, sister, relative, or friend that has experienced this widespread disease. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Scientists contribute a combination of risk factors to the development of breast cancer. These include reproductive history, alcohol consumption, getting older, and genetics. Starting your menses before the age of 12 years and notbeginning menopause until after 55 years can contribute to the development of breast cancer. These factors lengthen the exposure to reproduction hormones. Studies show that a woman’s risk for breast cancer increases with the more alcohol she drinks. The risk for breast cancer increases with age; most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 50. Having an inherited mutation to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 contributes to the development of breast cancer. In addition, having a mother, sister, or daughter (first-degree relative) or multiple family members on either her mother’s or father’s side of the family who has had breast or ovarian cancer places a woman at risk of developing the disease. I have had the humbling experience of witnessing several friends fight through this potentially devastating disease. Each woman is a champion of courage. I hope to capture some of their conversations here: On discovering they had breast cancer: “They found it on routine screening; I was shocked and numb. No one in my family had cancer. I don’t smoke or drink in excess; I don’t carry the breast cancer gene. How did this happen to me?” 34 October 2021 36 October 2021
“Thank God for my family and friends that supported me. They held my hand, wiped my tears, prayed fervent prayers when I couldn’t pray, and found ways to make me smile and laugh through the storm.” On what family and friends can do to help: “Pray for us. Pray with us.” “Don’t treat us like we are broken. Don’t whisper around us. Let me sleep, but wake me up and encourage me to get moving and live.” “Sometimes, just sitting with me is enough.” As I write this article, I am moved again by their strength, faith, and endurance. Some of these women continued to work at their jobs while they went through treatment. Their actions were a powerful statement, exemplifying a will to live and the determination to survive and win against an overwhelming force. I am in awe of these women. Each year in October, the Helene Fuld School of Nursing at Coppin State University hosts a breast cancer forum. A panel of experts, cancer survivors, and nursing students share knowledge about breast cancer. Please join us on Thursday, October 28. 2021 Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels at 2:00 pm for the virtual Assistant Professor at forum. Please check www. Coppin State University coppin.edu/events for the link DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu to the forum. healthytips025@gmail.com
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36 October 2021
