on the cover:
Pastor Keisha T. Jones, M.Div., CPE and Pastor Corliss Billips
Effectual Prayer International Ministries, Inc. info@epiministries.com www.effectualprayerinternationalministries.com www.epiministries.com
Cash App: $epiministries
Zelle: info@epiministries.com 1-888-383-8379 @epiministries @elderkeishajones
Elder Keisha T. Jones EP International Ministries, Inc.
Cover Story
October is Clergy Appreciation Month. As we celebrate Clergy Appreciation Month, this month also marks a significant milestone for Pastor Keisha T. Jones and EP International Ministries, Inc.—20 years of dedicated service to our communities and a journey fueled by faith, love, and commitment. Pastor Keisha T. Jones alongside her mother and associate pastor, Pastor Corliss Billips, reflect on how far they have come and the lives they have touched along the way.
20 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Pastor Rhoda Turner
I Still Believe
24 MONTHLY MANNA
Min. Carenda Deonne Beamon Now Faith Pgs 8-11
26 HEAVEN’S BREAD
Pastor Patricia Saulsbury Are You For Sale?
28 NEW DAY FRESH START
Brandie Manigault Daily Devotions
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
Brandie Manigault
Dr. Denyce Daniels
Rhoda Turner
Siobhan Saulsbury Ericka J.
GRAPHIC ARTIST
Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com
COVER/FEATURE STORY PHOTO CREDIT
Lamar L. Lundy, Photographer Noir Nexus Media Marketing Agency www.noirnexusmedia.com/ llundy92@gmail.com @noirnexusmedia
Contributors
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.
BRANDIE MANIGAULT
Brandie Manigault is the Co-founder of Healing Voice Ministries, Co-pastor of Ecos Church, and the author of New Day Fresh Start. Of all of the titles she has and hats she wears; her favorite is wife and mother. She is a firm believer that love wins and is passionate about the health of the soul.
MIN. CARENDA DEONNE
Min. Carenda is an Author, Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Certified Life Coach, and TV Personality. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, she received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and her M.A. in Law Degree (Mediation and Dispute Resolution) from Regent University. Min. Carenda helps individuals and professionals rise above their circumstances by detoxing emotionally. Carenda believes Emotional Management Equals Life Management. Her new book, 12 Rounds...How to Detox Emotionally and Win, is scheduled to launch 2024.
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.
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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.
ERICKA J.
Ericka J. is a Baltimore Native Radio and TV Personality Media Mogul. Ericka J. is a community activist who is very passionate about carrying on the legacy of her mother the late Rev. Sandi Johnson. Ericka J. is also a sought-after hair stylist and fashion icon.
Siobhan Saulsbury
Siobhan Saulsbury is a financial ally. She inspires believers to transform their financial legacy for the benefit of future generations. She teaches on God's guidelines to financial success and health in a relatable and tangible way. Her signature phrase is "Make Good Choices"!
Honoring God’s Anointed
October is National Clergy Appreciation Month. This month congregations all over the nation will take time out to honor their Pastors. It is Biblical for a church to recognize and honor the men and women of God who serve faithfully the flock of God. 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 Day 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 “9-5” 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 he is always on call. If we stop for a moment and think about all he 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, 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!
EPPSJackie
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)
Editor’s Note: This Clergy Appreciation Month we pay tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Rev. Cecelia Williams Bryant. Dr. Rev. Cecelia Williams Bryant passed from labor to reward September 26, 2024, and we dedicate this month’s issue to her memory. The Grace & Glory Family would like to extend our sincerest condolences to Rev. Jamal Bryant and the Bryant Family. It was our greatest honor to have Dr. Rev. Cecelia William Bryant grace the cover of Grace & Glory Magazine/May 2019. We celebrate this powerful woman of God, prayer warrior, and global matriarch; and it is our prayer that God will grant His peace to her family and all those who love her dearly.
Keisha T. Jones, M.Div., CPE Pastor and Founder
EP International
Ministries,
Inc.
and Chief Executive Officer
EP International (a 501(c)(3) public charity)
Associate Pastor
EP International Ministries, Inc. and
Vice President of Operations & Community Development
EP International (a 501(c)(3) public charity)
Celebrating 20 Years of Ministry - EP International Ministries,
This month marks a significant milestone for EP International Ministries, Inc.—20 years of dedicated service to our communities and a journey fueled by faith, love, and commitment. As we celebrate alongside our associate pastor, my mother, Pastor Corliss Billips, we reflect on how far we’ve come and the lives we’ve touched along the way. I cannot write any further without first acknowledging my shero! I am profoundly blessed to have Pastor Corliss by my side as we carry out the mission and vision that God entrusted to me decades ago. Her unwavering support, guidance, and intense intercession have been invaluable throughout our journey. In the most challenging times, her camaraderie and infectious laughter have uplifted my spirit and strengthened our resolve. Pastor Corliss truly embodies the essence of a servant of Christ, and I am eternally grateful for her presence in my life and ministry. She is my inspiration and a true shero in every sense of the word.
Our Journey
EP International Ministries, Inc. began with a simple yet profound mission: “Changing the world one soul, one voice, one nation at a time.” Founded in Fort Worth, TX and based in Baltimore, Maryland, alongside my mother, Pastor Corliss Billips, our ministry was born from a deep desire to empower underserved communities and address their fundamental needs.
From humble beginnings, our journey has been marked by pivotal moments that have shaped our mission. One of the earliest initiatives involved organizing small food drives in local neighborhoods, which revealed the stark realities of food insecurity that many families faced. These experiences ignited a passion in us to go beyond just meeting immediate needs; we sought to create sustainable solutions.
As we reflected on our vision, we recognized that true transformation occurs when we equip and empower those we serve. This led us to establish partnerships with schools, corporations, church ministries, and other organizations both at home and abroad that share our commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and eroding food insecurity. One of our cherished collaborations with Highlandtown Elementary Middle School #237, where Principal Denise Ashley leads with compassion and dedication serving nearly 1,000 Black and Brown young scholars in South Baltimore, has become a cornerstone of our outreach efforts. Together, we strive to create a safe and nurturing environment for at-risk youth and their families. Because of the incredible leadership of Principal Denise Ashley, we are reminded of the importance of collaboration.
Principal Ashley tirelessly serves her students and their families, embodying the compassion we strive for in our ministry. Over the past two decades, our work has expanded beyond Baltimore. We’ve served at-risk youth and low-income families across North America and in countries like China, the Philippines, and now South Africa–Kenya to follow. Each new initiative was birthed from a vision—a calling to meet the needs we encountered.
Throughout this journey, we have embraced the belief that ministry is not confined to the church walls. We actively engage with communities, fostering relationships and building partnerships that extend our reach and deepen our impact. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate needs but also empowers individuals to thrive and succeed. As we celebrate 20 years of ministry, we remain grounded in our mission and inspired by the stories of those we serve. We’ve seen lives transformed, families restored, and communities strengthened, reminding us daily of the importance of our work. God continues to open unthinkable doors, and we are committed to stepping through them, driven by faith and love for God’s people.
The GIVE Fest: A Beacon of Hope
One of our proudest achievements is The GIVE Fest, our annual outreach event designed to provide Thanksgiving meals and support to those in need. This year marks the 8th installment of this beloved initiative, which has seen incredible growth over time. We started The GIVE Fest in 2016 serving 75 residents a Thanksgiving turkey, cabbage and potatoes and shopping for clothing, household items, and baby accessories. This major outreach event was birthed out of a dream Pastor Keisha had and that is where this all began. Last year, we provided 430 turkeys and 11,000 pounds of fresh produce, thanks to our dedicated partners, including First Fruits Farm, Inc., Burger King, and Food Lion. Year after year our ministry partners continue to strengthen and increase our efforts with their unwavering support. Our goal this year is ambitious: to serve 1,000 Baltimore residents with “everything needed for Thanksgiving, including the turkey!” This is our tag line that we continue to use as we reach out to schools to remind them it’s that time again. Pastor Keisha is known throughout Baltimore City Schools as “the turkey lady”! It is only by
Continued on page 10
Lamar L. Lundy, (Pastor Keisha’s brother), is Director of Media Production & Public Relations.
God’s grace and unmerited favor that we can provide year after year for families in need. Pastor Corliss and I always say, “Many of our seniors are raising their grands and great grandchildren and are having to decide between purchasing their prescriptions or feeding their grandchildren. And during a major holiday like Thanksgiving no one should have to make that choice.”
The impact of The GIVE Fest is profoundly felt in our community. One memorable story comes from a woman who waited in line for hours to receive her holiday meal. After finally getting through, she was overwhelmed by the bounty she received—a huge turkey, boxes of stuffing, 10 pounds of potatoes, large cans of Maryland-grown corn and poblano peppers, fresh apples, bread, spices for her turkey, and extracts for her pies.
As she approached Pastor Keisha, she expressed her heartfelt gratitude, saying, “I just have to tell you that this was a very lovely giveaway! It was highly organized, you had ample staff to cover the hundreds of people lined up on Park Heights Avenue, and you even fed us breakfast to keep us from getting cranky. You did everything you could to make this a wonderful holiday. Thank you for the turkey and all the trimmings—you truly blessed us!”
Her words, captured on video by our Director of Media Production & Public Relations, Lamar Lundy, resonate with the essence of what The GIVE Fest is all about—bringing hope and joy to those in need during the holiday season. We strive to make every participant feel valued and cared for, and this testimony reminds us of the profound impact our efforts have on individuals and families in our community.
Another gentleman shared how meaningful The GIVE Fest was
for him and his wife. Moved by their experience, Pastor Corliss invited them to join us at church the following day. When they arrived, they embraced her warmly, their eyes filled with gratitude for the support and community they found. I will never forget the look on her face when she saw them sitting a few rows behind us. This is truly a rewarding work that runs deep!
Challenges and Triumphs
Like any ministry, our journey hasn’t been without challenges. Organizing large-scale events like The GIVE Fest requires immense effort, coordination, and funding. There have been times when we faced obstacles that felt insurmountable. However, with every challenge, God opened doors we never imagined. It is our daily international prayer call that we started over 10 years ago that sustains the work we do. My mother has taught me that, “Nothing gets done without prayer!” and we continue to build our firm foundation on the prayers of the righteous and God’s Word.
Volunteer Testimonials
The heart and soul of The GIVE Fest lie in our incredible volunteers, whose dedication fuels our mission and makes these events possible. Here’s what some of them have to say about their experiences:
• Lamar Lundy, Director of Media Production & Public Relations: “Capturing the joy and gratitude on the faces of families receiving their meals is a privilege. It’s a reminder of why we do this work—every moment counts.”
• Yolander Ebere, shared her experience: “Being part of The GIVE Fest has been a life-changing experience for me. My
husband and I have been wanting to do exactly what you and Pastor Corliss are doing for years and each time we tried to get started it seemed so impossible and overwhelming. Volunteering with you all has given me hope and let me know anything is possible! I’ve seen firsthand how much joy we bring to families in need. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the community we build together and pouring in the love of Christ.”
• Tonya Yarborough, Volunteer Coordinator: “Working alongside my community to prepare for The GIVE Fest fills me with purpose. We come together as one family, striving to make a difference in the lives of others. The best thing is I get to do it with my 8-year-old son. He’s learning the value of giving back at a young age and that’s important to me.”
These testimonials highlight the collective spirit and commitment that drives our outreach efforts, reminding us of all that we’re not just serving food but fostering hope and connection. Their unwavering support and love for our community not only enriches the lives of those we serve but also deepens their own commitment to our mission.
Looking Forward
churches, and organizations with the tools they need to uplift marginalized communities.
Our upcoming initiatives focus on eradicating food insecurity and promoting sustainable resources in impoverished areas in other nations. We are duplicating our efforts of The GIVE Fest in regions like South Africa and Kenya and partnering with pastors and leaders to build community gardens in efforts to teach disenfranchised communities how to be self-sustaining. We believe that with a collective effort, we can address these critical issues and make a lasting impact. It is our vision to bring The GIVE Fest to your city, state, and nation. We are currently organizing and training teams locally and abroad to do exactly that.
Conclusion: A Message of Hope
As we reflect on the past 20 years, we are grateful for the countless lives that have been transformed through our ministry. Our outreach events, like The GIVE Fest, serve as reminders of the power of community and compassion.
To our readers, Pastor Corliss and I encourage you: even the smallest acts of kindness can create ripples of change. Together, we can uplift the downtrodden and restore dignity to those in need. Join us on this incredible journey, as we continue to serve with love and purpose.
As we look to the future, our vision remains bold. We seek to expand our outreach and deepen our partnerships, both locally and globally. With requests for our leadership training coming in from around the world, we’re excited to equip other ministries,
Call to Action:
We encourage our readers to volunteer, donate, or partner with us to further support our mission. Together, let’s make a world of difference!
“EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THANKSGIVING INCLUDING THE TURKEY!”
"Hi, I'm Sheila. For 10 years, I've been waiting for a heart transplant. Without it, I won't be able to be there for my children, or see my grandkids grow. I often wonder, 'Will I be here to enjoy another sunset on a family vacation?' One organ donor can save up to eight lives, which means you have the power to give myself and others a second chance."
DEBNAM Dr. Carla
Love Shouldn’t Hurt
Domestic violence is something we hear about but do not often talk about. It is closer to us than we think. This problem is a part of our culture and not just of people we may have heard about on the news or in social media. Intimate partner violence starts at a young age, and it impacts every socioeconomic, cultural and religious background. There are even cycles of violence in families, and it does not matter if you are a woman or a man. Both genders are perpetrators of these unhealthy and dangerous behaviors with the majority being male. “Nearly 3 in 10 women (29%) and 1 in 10 men (10%) in the US have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by a partner and reported it having a related impact on their functioning” (thehotline.org).
There are many factors that can cause people to harm others. One of them is they may have been a victim of domestic violence or
witnessed it in the home or among friends. It is now common for people to be called derogatory names as terms of endearment. These may not seem to cause harm but over time being called out of your name can become a form of verbal abuse and impact your self-esteem and selfworth. There are long term effects to an abused person’s mental health. Survivors are more likely to have anxiety disorders, depression, suicidal behaviors, posttraumatic stress disorder and addictions. “People who abuse their partners deliberately use mental health and substance userelated issues to undermine and control their partners and to keep them from achieving their treatment and recovery goals” https://ncdvtmh.org/ our-work/mhsu-field/.
We can help by supporting those in need and learning the language of their pain, be nonjudgemental, be a safe space and place of refuge if you are able to provide
physical shelter. Not all abuse is physical or sexual. Some people experience emotional, mental, financial and healthcare abuse.
Withholding love, affection, money for necessities or denying access to medical attention or regular doctor appointments can also occur. These cannot be seen with the natural eye but have as much impact as physical violence and aggressive behaviors.
Supporting the person if they decide to leave is crucial.
The abused person may need emotional support to endure the loneliness that leaving the relationship will bring. They may need help if they are coparenting, and their safety is still a concern. The person may need financial support as they begin a new life or emergency shelter. Ask the victim how they want your help. We cannot assume we know what’s best. Most of all the healing journey will be long and often the person will return but we can support them where they are.
Rhoda
I Still Believe TURNER
I was on IG the other day and I ran across a video post that my niece made. I listened to her post and read her caption, it simply stated I Still Believe. Immediately I broke down and started crying. Before I read the post I had a financial meeting. My daughters are both very interested in cheer. Let me give you some background story. I moved to Arizona from WI about 7 years ago. When I lived in WI, cheer was just cheer. If you cheered competitively, you were a part of an outside of school organization almost equivalent to a club team. School cheer was just that you cheered at school games. Their school cheer team competes in cheer competition and attached to that is a heavy price tag to the tune of about $4,500 for both in addition to a monthly bill of $230.00 for one.
I attended the cheer meeting before the tryouts, and I was sold on the fact that my girls were NOT going to be a part of the cheer team. I knew they were going to be disappointed. They watched their older sister cheer when they were younger and
that’s all they spoke about is being a cheerleader when they grew up. They were going to be devastated, and I was okay with that. I had a plan. I was going to buy them some ice cream as we cry together. I let them tryout and one of them made the team. Not only did she make the team, she made the Varsity Cheer team as an underclassman. Don’t get me wrong, I was stoked as a mom. I knew they were not going to be a part. Low key I hoped that she didn’t make the team so that I wouldn’t have to disappoint her. She made the team and now it’s time for the big girl conversation. I started talking to her letting her know how excited I was, but she stopped me and said, “Mom I know what you are going to say.” I said you do, she said Yes, she then went on to say l saw your face at the parent meeting when the cost was shared and I know that we can’t afford it. I prayed and I believed that God was going to do this for me.
Now I’m faced with a dilemma do I allow her to exercise her faith, and we agree together or do I move on without allowing her Heavenly Father show Himself to her. As a parent and a believer, I was torn. She was also willing to do her part outside of trusting God. She started a bracelet business, and she made about $50.00. She had a plan, a short lived one.
She is a tither and a giver of her finances and her talents. I believed with her. She always refers to the mustard seed faith and the habit of childlike faith. Childlike faith is great. It’s the infancy of the faith, not tainted by the World, solely trusting and believing in God. I still believe.
Now back to the present. I had this meeting and the outcome that I was believing for was favorable but wasn’t the miracle working God favorable. But I’m reminded as long as there is seed time there is Harvest time. I’m waiting for my harvest for the seeds that I’ve sown.
I STILL BELIEVE
Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
Grief
Grief can be caused by so many different things. Grief of loss. The loss of a job, a pet, friendship, loved one, divorce, unborn child especially on Mother’s Day. Some other things that tend to go unnoticed is grieving health changes, a dream, a move or even retirement or something that you may have experienced in your early years, childhood, that is just now creeping up on you. The list is literally endless unfortunately.
First let me say, that everyone experiences grief differently. Just like two siblings raised the same way by the same parents in a healthy home (let’s not broach the subject of the dysfunctional family in this narrative). The siblings have completely different personalities, maybe completely different belief systems, and ethics. They have different wants, desires, and needs. The same goes for how people grieve. However, the one constant in grief is that there are five different stages. How one navigates these stages can vary, and it is not uncommon to fall back and repeat a stage or two.
1. Denial. Here people may act as if nothing has happened. This is a state of disbelief and numbed feelings. This is a common defense mechanism which helps create a numbing feeling to lessen the intensity of the situation.
2. Anger. In this phase you are often hiding the actual emotions you are feeling, creating a mask. This anger may be redirected at other people, such as the person who died, your ex, your old boss, a parent, or friend. You may even aim your anger at inanimate objects. While your rational brain knows the object of your anger isn’t to blame, your feelings in that moment are too intense to act according to that. Anger may mask itself in feelings like bitterness or resentment. It may not be clear-cut fury or rage. Not everyone feels this stage while some linger here for some time. Anger may mask itself in feelings like bitterness or resentment. It may not be clear-cut fury or rage.
3. Bargaining. In this stage of grief, you may find yourself creating a lot of “what if” and “if only” statements. You may be making promises to God in hopes of feelings of relief from the pain you are feeling. For some, it helps postpone feelings of sadness or guilt.
4. Depression. This stage is often a quiet stage during the grieving process. Depression may feel like the inevitable landing point of any loss. This may be a period of isolation and loneliness during which you process and reflect on the loss.
5. Acceptance. This stage is not necessarily a happy or uplifting stage of grief. It doesn’t mean you’ve moved past the grief or loss. It does, however, mean that you’ve accepted it and have come to understand what it means in your life now. You may feel very different in this stage. That’s entirely expected. You’ve had a major change in your life, and that upends the way you feel about many things. Look to acceptance to see that there may be more good days than bad. There may still be bad — and that’s OK.
Remember, not all grief is recognizable to others when an obvious event doesn’t occur and often you can find yourself grieving over something or someone from years prior. But just because someone may not know you are grieving; it does not diminish your situation. Remember, there’s no blueprint for grief. It happens when it does, and it happens how we allow it to happen. The first thing to remember is that YOUR grief is not anyone else’s. So do not compare yourself. It is hard to do that currently with social media and conforming to societal norms. Grief is heavy and it is scary, but by taking baby steps BACKWARDS will help you to move forward. How? It helps you to acknowledge the roughness of grief and the strength of moving forward through it. Basically, allowing yourself to navigate through the stages.
There are three Cs of grief. Choosing, connecting, and communicating. Choose what’s best for you. Often during the stages of grief, you feel like you have no control over anything. Emotions while grieving can be overwhelming. You still have a choice to attend an event, a gathering, or go out. Remember, you and only you have the choice of what you do and do not do.
Grief can intensify feelings of loneliness and often leads to isolation. Taking some time off from the world, social media, etc. may be healthy. But don’t stay there too long. As humans, we are predestined for connection. So, connect with those who help you feel supported and safe.
Communication can to your friends and family help them know how best to come alongside you and provide support in the way you desire. Talk about it with those you trust, seek help if it gets too overwhelming. Remember, talking about it is healing.
Grief sucks. But hiding it makes it worse. And navigating it can be difficult. You may not feel like yourself throughout this process, you aren’t your best version of yourself. But you can take baby steps towards healing. Even if you fall, remember you fall forward. So, you’re still going in the right direction.
www.pleasantly-grounded.com
Latoya Holloman
Certified Reiki Master pleasantlygrounded@gmail.com
Min. Carenda
Deonne
Now Faith
If I were to ask you, how do you define faith? What would you say? When you consider the principle of faith, what does that look like for you? How have you incorporated faith into your daily lifestyle? I read this book entitled, The Growing Power of Faith by Roxanne Brant. It’s not a book filled with hundreds and hundreds of pages. As a matter of fact, eighty-one to be exact, but it’s filled with numerous teachings and examples of faith. The author states, “Faith is a force that we can build up in our lives. The amount of faith we have and how quickly or slowly it grows is up to us.” Our faith should be ever growing! I attended a service and the preacher stated, “The presence of doubt does not mean you do not have faith. Doubt never comes first. Belief comes first because you cannot doubt something you have never believed. However, when doubt shows up you must look past your reasons to quit and keep going.” Wow, that is powerful when you take time to really think about it.
Recently, I have been intentional by saying to the Lord, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Not only have I been saying it daily but repeating it several times throughout the day. For me, that is activating my faith. It’s not only an extension of hope, but also trust. I am by nature a go getter and I like to see results. However, when I think about living a lifestyle of faith, it means involving God in every area of my life. I am learning to speak, “Lord, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” . . . before meetings, projects, conversations, speaking engagements, presentations, and in my quiet time. Personally, it is a faith reminder that only His will is what’s best for me.
At times, I think we gravitate so much on desiring favor, and walking in favor, that we miss the opportunity to build our faith. I am not in any way speaking against favor. I am a witness to the power of favor, as a matter of fact I am a witness to uncommon favor, but I can tell you that
my prayers and focus became so consumed with desiring favor, that the substance of my faith was lacking. It was as if whatever I lacked in faith, I wanted favor to make up the difference. I just keep hearing the Holy Spirit tell me, “NOW FAITH!” Which means, a faith that speaks up for such a time as this.
I am telling you with everything within me, you can’t stop growing your faith. There is too much going on in your life, and mine, to keep faith in an inadequate state. The bible teaches us, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1). If faith is the substance of things hoped for, how can we increase in our substance? We do that by bragging on God, by reflecting on our track record with God, and sharing our testimony about God’s love with others.
As we are asking of the Lord and desiring that He answer our prayer requests, our hope must be filled with substance, so that NOW FAITH can be cultivated for harvest! In this month, check your substance! Have you been doing more complaining lately? Have you given thanks in all things? Have you stopped your busy schedule and just got on your knees to express gratitude? I pray that as you abundantly increase in substance, there will be more testimonies regarding the evidence of NOW FAITH.
If you have a prayer partner, pray more regarding faith. Don’t let this year end and your faith is just sitting in que. You must be intentional. God is intentional about everything concerning us. NOW FAITH! Oh, let faith arise! I look forward to hearing your testimonies.
Live life on the promise of IMPACT!
Min. Carenda Deonne
www.carendadeonne.com
Are You For Sale?
Romans 12:2a, “And be not conformed to this world...”
Today, while riding down the street, I saw a little sports car with a big “For Sale” sign on it. I wondered how much the owner was letting it go for. Then I thought, for the right price, someone’s going to get that car. All they need to do is offer what the owner wants, and the car is theirs.
Well, that then made me think of us, how we will sometimes sell out to the enemy for the right price. If he offers us the right thing, that thing that speaks to the lusts in us, some of us just might sell out.
God’s Word clearly tells us that we must not be conformed to this world. We shouldn’t be pressed into the mold, image, or likeness of this world. When we are conformed to this world, we are advertising to the enemy that we are “For Sale” and we’re simply waiting for him to give us his offer. If his offer is right, then we’ll allow him to buy us locks, stock, and barrels.
Today, let’s choose to get rid of our “For Sale” signs and allow the Word of God to transform us by the renewing of our minds. As our minds are renewed by God’s Word, the “For Sale” sign that the enemy previously saw, now reads, “SOLD!” Amen and amen!
Pastor Patricia
Brandie
Manigault
DAILY DEVOTIONS
(Excerpts from NEW
DAY FRESH START-
by Brandie Manigault)
DAY 1
Trouble doesn’t have to last forever. Those things that you are facing and dealing with that seem like the end is nowhere in sight, have an expiration date sooner than you think. It may be hard to see it now because other people have given you their professional and personal opinions. You do not have to wait three months before you can be approved for something. You do not have to wait seven years for it to fall off your credit. You are God’s chosen and included in His benefit package for your life are truncated seasons. You do not always have to endure the tough times to the extent that the season dictates in the natural. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to trust in the timing and the agenda of the Lord, because it looks nothing like man’s plans for you.
Matthew 24:21-22 (MSG), “This is going to be trouble on a scale beyond what the world has ever seen, or will see again. If these days of trouble were left to run their course, nobody would make it. But on account of God’s chosen people, the trouble will be cut short.”
DAY 2
It is important to know when to help and when not to help. There will be times when helping others is a good idea, but then there are times when helping will do more harm than good. In some seasons, people have to figure it out on their own. If you are always giving to others in need out of what you have, there may be instances when it just isn’t enough to keep both of you going. In the end you may both become depleted, because you are running off of the same resources. It’s ok to be selfish at times. Seek the Lord’s counsel on each individual occurrence, asking Him if He wants you to give or hold on to your resources.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to assess the situation before you help. See if helping is going to hurt or help both you and the other person.
Matthew 25:8-9, “And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out. But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.”
DAY 3
Going through the process, walking from season to season, may be difficult at times. We sow seeds and then sit back waiting for the harvest. We have endured the hard times, put time in on our knees in prayer, and done what we could with what we had. Now what? Now we wait with anticipation of what’s to come. Our faithfulness over what has been placed in our hands in the last season will not only yield a bountiful harvest, but it will yield
“more”. In this next season of “more” we will not only experience an increase of natural things, but in both peace and joy.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to remain faithful and diligent to the end. Your more is coming.
Matthew 25:21, “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord!”
DAY 4
How are you treating Jesus? How we treat others is a direct reflection on how we treat Jesus. It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our day and ignore the needs of others. Our family and friends require much of our attention and our jobs have us working late. We become consumed in our own bubble that, at times, it is hard to see that there is a world that needs us. There is a stranger who needs a smile and some kindness, an elderly woman who needs help carrying groceries, and a child who needs encouragement. They are depending on us to make a difference in their day.
Challenge: Today challenge yourself to see beyond your immediate circle and be mindful of how you are treating others. They need you.
Matthew 25:38-40, “When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’”
DAY 5
There are times when the people who are the closest to you and are connected with your promise will not understand the sacrifices that you will make for the promise. They may even look at what you are giving up and have a better plan that in their eyes would be more effective. Stand your ground. Do what you know to do for your promise; it is yours not theirs. If it means something of significance to you it is going to cost you something, but only you can determine what that cost is going to be. Never let others dictate to you what your promise is worth. Challenge: Today challenge yourself to think about what your promise means to you, and then go after it with an appropriate sacrifice.
Matthew 26:7-9, “A woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.””
iambandaid
Brandie Manigault
Ericka J.
Gospel & Entertainment
Frankie Beverly
Music legend Frankie Beverly, the founder of Frankie Beverly & Maze passed away last month on September 10th, at the age of 77. For over 50 years, this singer, songwriter, and producer extraordinaire, has blessed us with timeless music that we will be singing for many, many generations to come. Songs like “Joy and Pain”, “Happy Feelins”, and the without a doubt the reigning “Before I Let You Go” just to name a few, which all can be heard as uplifting melodies and sang at all the family gatherings still to this very day. You will be missed and your music will live on, thank you for blessing the world with your presence and gift, as you take your rest.
Tamela Mann
Tamela Mann released her new single, “Hand on Me,” which will be on her new album, “Live Breathe Fight,” slated to release on Friday, October 11. The first single, “Working for Me” which she performed live at the Stellar Awards, and as always a compelling performance with all the bells and whistles. The single is in the Top 5 on Billboard and rapidly climbing. This album has more of Tamela’s pen on it as a songwriter so it’s definitely giving us more of her as writer not just the artist. “Hand On Me is a special track for me because it serves as a powerful reminder and anthem that we are never alone,” Mann declares. “It’s a message of solidarity and strength, meant to uplift and connect us all during challenging times.” Shout out to Jevon Hill and DMV’s own Phillip Bryant for the production on this project…looks like another BIG ONE for Queen Tamela! October 11th GO GRAB IT!
JJ Hairston
I’m super excited to share this news! JJ Hairston is doing a live recording but not just a live recording, he’s taking us back to the start of it all with the JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise Reunion Recording! What a way to celebrate 25 years and 13 albums. I’m here for it all and I can’t wait, Nov 23 it is HAPPENING! The recording will be held at The Gathering Place, 4794 Marlboro Pike, Capital Heights, MD where JJ Hairston and his wife Trina Hairston are the pastors. For tickets jhairston.ticketlocity.com.
Me’Kayla
News
This vocal powerhouse released a new single last month, and I must truly say I love everything about it! Her vocals are truly amazing, the instrumentation and production on it are absolute fire! The writing on this is great Tia Sheree! The production is by Phillip Bryant & Justin Pearson, and Baltimore’s own Aaron Scott on bass, y’all this is a good one to add to your rotation. AVAILABLE NOW EVERYWHERE!
The Gospel According to Disney
Therron Fowler & his production company Soul 2 Soul Entertainment are bringing back the awesome EVERYWHERE in “The Gospel According to Disney”, just reimagine your Disney favorites arranged and sung by some of DMV’s best in a Disney Gospel format if you will, it’s an unforgettable experience you will love! Happening on October 20th, at LaFamilia Soundstage, 836 Guilford Ave. beginning at 4pm. For further info and tickets soul2soulentertainment.com.
Average Joe The Movie
Coach Joe Kennedy’s film, Average Joe, premieres in theaters October 11th. Coach Joe Kennedy is about a high school football coach, who gets fired from his job for displaying his faith publicly by taking a knee after every football game; putting him in his biggest battle to be steadfast to his commitment to stand for God publicly by taking a knee in prayer after each football game.
“Til next month, Be blessed, love real big, in real life!” Follow me: Facebook, Instagram & Twitter @misserickaj Email iammisserickaj@gmail.com
Frankie Beverly Tamela Mann JJ Hairston
Me’Kayla The Gospel According to Disney
Average Joe The Movie
Saulsbury Siobhan
Tip 1
Expecting a smooth, easy ride to accomplish goals is unrealistic. Mistakes and setbacks will happen. We have to know how to get back up and get back on track when they do. If you’re not where you want to be in your financial journey, it’s not the end of the world. Start where you are and do what you can. Not everything will be perfect, but that’s how we learn and keep moving forward!
Tip 2
Choose success. And keep choosing it over and over with every decision. Choose to be awesome!
Tip 3
There’s an Oscar Wilde quote that says, “A man who pays his bills on time is soon forgotten.” It’s basically saying the way to stay off the creditor’s radar is by paying your bill. It’s always a good reminder to honor the financial commitments we’ve made. Many of us have experienced the aggravation of getting hounded by debt collectors. So, today’s reminder is to pay your bills consistently and on time: be forgettable.
