January 2013 by Grace & Glory Magazine

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2 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

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™

JANUARY 2013

contents on the cover:

Dr. Michael A. Chambers & First Lady Lizzie B. Chambers Fountain Baptist Church 1215 East Monument Street Baltimore Maryland 21202 410-675-1372- Church Office www.1fountainbaptist.org officeadministrator@1fountainbaptist.org

Q&A Interview with Dr. Michael A. Chambers

features 15 Mayor’s Journal

Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake

21 Word on Finances

Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson

God’s Money in Caesar’s Pockets

17 Governor’s Page Governor Martin O’Malley

23 To Your Good Health

19 Education Digest Dr. Tim Tooten

25 FROM THE PULPIT Timothy Manigault

Lessons Learned

4 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC

It’s Never Too Late

Walking in New Places

Pg. 8-9

27 Book Shelf

Brandie Manigault

A Call To Prayer (Germaine Copeland)

29 Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perspective

Cassandra Vaughn-Fox

Starting Over& Shifting

31 Nutrition & You

Herline A. Knights

The Best You in 2013

39 TEEN CONNECT

Pastors Greg & Tonya Dennis

Take Action

40 Gospel Industry News

Ericka Johnson

42 Fashion Focus

www.chicous.com Hot Jewelry Trends For Winter

43 PERSON OF Interest

Andrea R. Williams

Byron Cage

44 Body Basics

www.fitnessmagazine.com

15 Best Workout Tips

Multiple Â Award-ÂWinning Â Artist Â And Â W Byron Â Cage Â Still Â Serving Â A Â Great Â & Â Might By Â Andrea Â R. Â Williams Â Who Â could Â have Â imagined Â a Â young Â kid Â from Â Grand Â Rapids, Â Michigan, Â would Â grow Â up Â and Â change Â the Â landscape Â of Â a Â genre? Â Urban Â praise Â and Â worship Â hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Â been Â the Â same Â since Â Byron Â Cage Â entered Â the Â scene. Â Songs Â like Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Â Presence Â of Â the Â Lordâ&#x20AC;?, Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Â Will Â Bless Â The Â Lordâ&#x20AC;? Â and Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Broken Â But Â Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Â Healedâ&#x20AC;? Â are Â just Â a Â few Â of Â the Â songs Â by Â this Â psalmist, Â songs Â heard Â in Â choir Â stands Â nationally Â Sunday Â after Â Sunday. Â Â From Â the Â reverence Â of Â spirited Â worship Â to Â the Â energetic Â power Â of Â dynamic Â praise, Â Byron Â !'% >/62 %!2),8 &1/- /.% 238,% 3/ !./3(%1 ,3(/4'( 3(% '/20%, 5/#!,)23 (!2 1%#%)5%$ .4-%1/42 !##/,!$%2 ).#,4$).' 2)7 3%,,!1 6!1$2 !.$ ! /4, 1!). 6!1$ !2 6%,, !2 /5%

-!'% !.$

6!1$ ./-).!3)/.2 3()2 ')&3%$ -42)#)!. ')5%2 /$ !,, (/./1 !.$ ',/18 Recently, Â the Â noted Â worship Â leader Â and Â Verity Â Gospel Â recording Â artist Â !$$%$ !./3(%1 2/.' 3/ 3(% "41'%/.).' ,)23 /& ()32 : 1%!3 !.$ )'(38; 1)5%3).' !.$ 6/12()0 =,,%$ !.3(%- : 1%!3 !.$ )'(38; 2(/6#!2%2 !'% !3 ()2 =.%23 (% ,%!$ 2).',% &1/- ()2 *423 1%,%!2%$ .).3( Memoirs Â of Â a Â Worshipper, )2 2%33).' 3(% '/20%, -42)# #(!132 /. =1% !,1%!$8 0,!#).' in Â the Â Top Â Ten. Â Cage, Â who Â reportedly Â was Â singing Â tunes Â in Â his Â crib, Â was Â clearly Â $%23).%$ &/1 -42)# % 0%1&/1-%$ ()2 =123 #(41#( 2/,/ !3 3(% !'% /& years Â old Â and Â as Â a Â teen Â honed Â his Â saxophone Â and Â choir Â director Â skills Â at Â 1%!3%1 1!#% (41#( ). %31/)3 % 31!).%$ 4.$%1 3(% 343%,!'% /& '/20%, '1%!3 (/-!2 ()3=%,$ !'% #1%$)32 ()- 6)3( !22)23).' ()- ). understanding Â the Â importance Â of Â worship Â and Â admired Â the Â way Â he Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;had Â the Â ability Â to Â lead Â the Â corporate Â worship Â experience Â where Â the Â presence Â /& 3(% /1$ 6/4,$ "% 42(%1%$ ). ; 1/6).' 40 ). %31/)3 )#()'!. !'% 6!2 2411/4.$%$ "8 3(% '1%!32 /& '/20%, -42)# !.$ 6!2 ).>4%.#%$ ,!1'%,8 "8 ).)23%1 /& 42)# !-%2 ".%8 ). !$$)3)/. 3/ ()3=%,$

./3(%1 '1%!3 -%.3/1 &/1 !'% 6!2 '/20%, -42)# 0)/.%%1 /.!,$ !),2 known Â for Â his Â dynamic Â choir Â directing Â and Â masterful Â arrangements. &3%1 !33%.$).' /1%(/42% /,,%'% ). 3,!.3! (% */).%$ %6 )13( Cathedral, Â at Â that Â time Â with Â only Â 700 Â members. Â Cage Â released Â two Â moderately Â successful Â albums Â in Â the Â late Â 90s, Â but Â rose Â to Â fame Â with Â the Â 2003 Â release Â of Â his Â self-Âtitled Â GospoCentric Â debut Â which Â spawned Â his Â mega-Âhit, Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Â Presence Â Of Â The Â Lordâ&#x20AC;? Â as Â well Â as Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Psalm Â 3â&#x20AC;? Â and Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;There Â 2 !-%; (% 01/*%#3 .%33%$ ! .4-"%1 /& 3%,,!1 6!1$2 ).#,4$).' %23 !,% /#!,)23 !.$ %23 & (% %!1 ! /4, 1!). 6!1$ &/1 %23 /20%, ,"4- !.$ ! /5% 6!1$ /-).!3)/. &/1 /.3%-0/1!18 /20%, ,"4- /& 3(% %!1 %73 #!-% An Â Invitation Â To Â Worship Â which Â contained Â the Â hit Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Â Will Â Bless Â The Â Lordâ&#x20AC;?, Â which Â hit Â number Â one Â on Â the Â Hot Â Gospel Â Songs Â chart Â !.$ %!1.%$ ()- !./3(%1 3%,,!1 6!1$ &/1 /.' /& 3(% %!1 . .5)3!3)/. To Â Worship Â also Â contained Â the Â emotive Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Broken Â But Â Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Â Healedâ&#x20AC;? Â which Â 0%!+%$ !3 /. 3(% /3 /20%, /.'2 (!13 (% 01/*%#3 ()33).' /. 3(% ),,"/!1$ /20%, ,"4-2 #(!13 %!1.%$ !'% ()2 =123

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46 Word of Encouragement

Donna Williams-Ross

Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plans For You in 2013

In Every Issue

At Â The Â Apollo: Â The Â P 2/.'2 ,)+% : )3( ,, favorites Â and Â consiste To Â Believe Â was Â next Â w !.$ : )5% /4 1!)2 3()2 3)-% &/1 !,% / /-).!3)/. &/1 %23 Â Â Memoirs Â of Â a Â Wors gives Â fans Â just Â what Â th and Â singer. Â The Â projec a Â rousing Â track Â abou

,1%!$8 ()33).' 3(% / 6)3( (!.$2 ,)&3%$ ( the Â intro Â for Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go

.8(/6; $%,)5%1 by Â chart-Âtopper Â Pas Charles Â Jenkins Â : 6%2/-%; &!-% 3(%1 2/.'2 , : 43 & (%- ,,; : : 1/4"

6!8; !.$ : )#3/18; &%!341) Fred Â Hammond Â show Â that Â Cage Â s has Â the Â Midas Â touch Â when Â it Â com to Â praise Â and Â worship. Â Cage Â is Â thrilled Â about Â the Â n 1%,%!2% : /1 3()2 .%6 #/,, Lindsey Â that Â I Â felt Â would Â be Â the changing;Íž Â the Â sounds Â of Â keyboar 1%!,,8 6!.3%$ 3/ "1).' /43 /. 6(!3 <- 61)3).' !.$ 6(!3<2 ). the Â message Â of Â faith Â and Â a Â mess album. Â Some Â of Â the Â songs Â that Â I Â s itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â really Â a Â vertical Â message Â tha anymore. Â Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Â talking Â about Â God Â Â Cage Â was Â recently Â tapped Â as Â (41#( ). )#(-/.$ 6(%1

,1%!$8 2%15).' &/1 3(% 0!23 8 /12()0 !.$ 42)# $-).)231!3 !2().'3/. 4.$%1 3(% 0!23 Browning, Â Cage Â relishes Â the Â op churches Â simultaneously. /3 /.% 3/ 2)3 /. ()2 ,!41%, new Â roles. Â Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â been Â named Â the !2().'3/. <2 !$)/ .%< Station Â welcomed Â Cage Â to Â its Â Sun .//. 3/ % )2 3(1),,%$ !"/4 his Â ministry. Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Â am Â overjoyed Â to Â h One Â announcer Â family,â&#x20AC;? Â says Â Ca &/1 8%!12 !2 !. !13)23 2 /$ serving Â with Â humility, Â integrity Â an lot Â of Â fun.â&#x20AC;? 2 /.% /& 3/$!8<2 -/23 0/ )2 0/41).' ()2 6)2$/- &1/- /5% praise Â and Â worship Â by Â adding Â the Â packed Â resume. Â Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â no Â doub part Â of Â the Â new Â wave Â of Â praise Â of

Contributors................................................................... 6 From the Editor.............................................................. 7 Scripture Page............................................................. 13

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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

Jackie Epps

EDITORIAL

Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Dr. Harold A. Carter, Jr. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Herline A. Knights Pastors Gregory and Tonya Dennis Carla J. Debnam Donna Williams-Ross Governor Martin O’Malley Ericka Johnson Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Rev. Tim Tooten Brandie Manigault

PHOTOGRAPHY GRAPHIC ARTIST

Mark L. Dennis Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com

PRINTING Roebuck & Son Printing www.hgroebuck.com Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC, a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.

Advisory Board

Chairman — Dr. A.C. D. Vaughn Sr. Pastor, Sharon Baptist Church, MD Vice-Chairman — Dr. Frank M. Reid III Sr. Pastor, Bethel A.M.E. Church, MD Dr. Jerome A. Barber Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, Hampton , VA 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, Sr. Pastor, New Shiloh Baptist Church, MD Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook, U.S. Ambassador Dr. WIlliam H. Curtis Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA Bishop Ralph L. Dennis Sr. Pastor, Kingdom Worship Center, MD Wanda Q. Draper/Media Executive Michele J.K. Epps/Health Sciences Cassandra Vaughn/Out Foxed Media LLC. www.Outfoxedmedia.org Dr. Donte’ L. Hickman, Sr. Pastor, Southern Baptist Church, MD Pastor Timothy V. Manigault Bishop Dennis V. Proctor Presiding Prelate of the Western Episcopal Region AME Zion Church Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson Pastor, Restoring Life International Church, MD Bishop Walter Scott Thomas, Sr. Pastor, New Psalmist Baptist Church, MD Dr. Timothy Tooten, Sr. Pastor, Harvest Christian Ministries, MD

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from the editor

Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief

It is now a brand new year and many of us are looking toward this New Year with a fresh new hope! What is hope? Well, the modern idea of hope is “to wish for, to expect, but without certainty of the fulfillment; to desire very much, but with no real assurance of getting your desire.” In Scripture, according to the Hebrew and Greek words translated by the word “hope”, hope is an indication of certainty. “Hope” in Scripture means “a strong and confident expectation.” Hope is akin to trust. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one also hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. Romans 8:24-25 Here is a list of what hope can do... (1) It changes how we see ourselves. It changes us into pilgrim persons, people who see this life as a temporary sojourn. (2) It changes what we value. Hope, if biblical, makes us heavenly minded rather than earthly minded. (Matthew 6:19-21) (3) It affects what we do with our lives – our talents, time, treasures. (Titus 2:1-13) (4) It gives us joy and peace. Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 (5) It gives us protection. Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, On those who hope for His lovingkindness. Psalm 33:18 (6) It gives us strength, courage, boldness. Be strong, and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:24

(7) It gives us expectation. Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord. Psalm 27:14 (8) It gives us confidence in ministry. For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. I Timothy 4:10 God is called “the God of Hope.” This means He is the source of all real hope. If we are going to have hope (confident expectation), it must come from Him for He alone has the power to give it. Hope gives us power to live courageously, to be all God has called us to be in Christ. My soul, waits in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him. Psalm 62:5 This New Year my prayer is no matter what happens in the next 12 months, that you will never lose your hope for the future. That Hope that depends on the Word of God. That Hope that depends on knowing and resting in God’s Grace.

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Q&A

G&G: Dr. Chambers, Happy New Year! I am very excited for this opportunity to talk with you; you are the first interview for 2013! I like to start with one of my favorite questions. Most pastors have shared with me that ‘preaching the gospel’ was not necessarily what they had planned to do with their lives. Was it the same for you, did you have other plans for your life before your call to ministry? Dr. Chambers: My dream was to become a corporate lawyer, business owner, and philanthropist. G&G: Dr. Chambers, tell us a little about yourself. What is one thing that most people would not know about you? Describe yourself in three words.

January2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 8 8 January

Dr. Chambers: I was born and reared in the state of Mississippi. I am the eldest of four children. I am married to the former Lizzie B. Davis, and father of four children (Nicholas, Nykia, Aja, and Sean). I enjoy travel, sports, reading, national politics, and global affairs. In addition, I have served in the military, U.S. Army and Mississippi National Guard. Furthermore, I have previous experience working in the computer industry. Additionally, I have consulted non-profits in areas of workplace civility, employee performance, and leadership development. Finally I have been Preaching/ Pastoral ministry for twenty two years. I enjoy watching college football especially the south eastern conference. I would describe myself as an aspiring, compassionate, and determined child of God.

Q&A G&G: Dr. Chambers who would you say significantly impacted your life growing up? Was there anyone who inspired or influenced your decision about ministry? Dr. Chambers: The person who significantly impacted my life growing up is my grandmother. My grandmother consistently imparted nuggets of wisdom and deposited spiritual pearls in my life. She discerned my call to the preaching ministry before I acknowledged it. Moreover my parents, David and Virginia McGee of Ms., played a significant role in my life as well. They taught me the necessity of God in my life, personal responsibility, and strong work ethics. I was called into the preaching ministry. My call was confirmed through much prayer, signs from God, and conversations with my Pastor and a good friend in the ministry, Dr. Charlie Barnes. However, the late Rev. Robert Copeland and Dr. W. Lee Robinson were influential in my initial years of ministry. Rev. Robert Copeland was my father in the ministry. The overarching lesson that I learned from him was the priority of a Godly lifestyle for Pastors and the importance of genuinely loving the people you lead. Dr. W. Lee Robinson taught me the necessity of pursuing theological education, striving for excellence in ministry, preaching nothing but the Word, and refusing to put limits on God.

Dr. Chambers: My passion is the preaching of the gospel. In addition, leadership development, evangelism, and discipleship are the additional irons that burn within my spirit. I believe my strengths as a Pastor are loving people unconditionally, an authentic interest in the total person, and a desire to lead/coach individuals into their God-given purpose and dream. If someone is looking for a Pastor and church home, Pastor Chambers and Fountain Baptist Church strive to be biblically sound, relevant, loving, encouraging, and destined to serve the holistic needs of humanity with the Good News of Jesus Christ. G&G: Dr. Chambers, with the influx of new ministries and hundreds of churches in Baltimore, how would you best define the ministry of the Fountain Baptist Church? If this ministry could be known for one thing, what would that be? Dr. Chambers: Fountain seeks to pursue a balanced approached to the ministry. The balanced approach includes worship, evangelism, discipleship, ministry, and fellowship. The one word that describes Fountain is FRIENDLY. This word encompasses our values: F-We Value Faith, R-We Value Relationships, I- We Value Inheritance, E- We Value Evangelism, N- We Value Necessity, D- We Value Discipleship, L- We Value Love, and Y- We Value Yes Lord.

G&G: Dr. Chambers, I understand that you are the ninth pastor of the Fountain Baptist Church. How long have you been pastor of the Fountain Baptist Church? You have pastored ministries in other cities; tell us about the journey that led to you becoming the pastor of this historic church. Dr. Chambers: I have been privileged to serve as the Pastor of Fountain Baptist Church for five years. I have pastored in Georgia and Mississippi. I served as a pastor in Georgia for eight years prior to coming to Maryland. While attending United Theological Seminary, Dr. Harold Carter, Jr. of the New Shiloh Baptist Church (Baltimore), informed and encouraged me to apply for the Pastoral vacancy of Fountain Baptist Church. Dr. Carter, Jr. shared with me about the great history of the church. Subsequently, I committed the matter to prayer and moved forward to submit my resume to the church. After a series of interviews, committee observations of previous preaching/pastoral context, and preaching at Fountain, the call was extended to me to serve as the Pastor of the Fountain Baptist Church in August 2007. I began my pastoral duties in October 2007. Finally my journey with Fountain continues to be a wonderful blessing.

G&G: Dr. Chambers, in today’s society, what issues do you see as the most important ones facing the church right now? What is the church’s most pressing need? Dr. Chambers: Where should I begin? The lack of spiritual appetite and aptitude is gradually consuming the foundation and structure of our society. Consequently, the perils of health, education, economics, social matters, and political obstacles are the outgrowth from this neglect. Therefore the issues facing the church are multi-faceted. However the church must become proactive and productive in speaking to these issues. In addition, the church must continue to be the liberators of the oppressed, champions for change in the communities, and resolved in addressing the spiritual dearth, social ills, health disparities, educational divides, economical crumbs and the wayward political agendas. The church’s most pressing need is to transition from a place of complacency and adhere to the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, “The Urgency of Now!” The shift will afford us an opportunity to impact the community, stay ahead of social issues, and remain the moral compass and conscious of the world.

G&G: Dr. Chambers, during your years of pastoring have you found any areas of ministry frustrating or difficult? Has it become more difficult and challenging to reach the unsaved? Dr. Chambers: The challenge or struggle is the issue of discipleship development. However, my struggle has transitioned into my passion for discipleship. Therefore I seek to continuously implement best practices to move individuals from being fans of Jesus to followers of Jesus Christ. I am thoroughly convinced everything rises and falls on discipleship development. However, despite the challenges, discipleship development is the greatest opportunity to shape and mold the believer into the image of Christ. The matter of reaching the unsaved requires one to continuously evaluate your methodologies but remain constant in the message which is the Good News of Jesus Christ. Therefore the difficulties and challenges can be mitigated if you seek different approaches to evangelizing the unsaved and un-churched.

G&G: Dr. Chambers, lastly with the start of the New Year 2013, what are your plans for the Fountain Baptist Church? Would you also share with us what you believe the Lord is saying in this hour to His people? Dr. Chambers: We are placing a greater emphasis on evangelism. Therefore we will initiate several servant evangelism events in 2013; Church and Community Day in May, Family and Friends Day in June, and a Thanksgiving and Christmas outreach. Furthermore, there are several mini-outreach efforts through our ministries which target specific zip codes in east Baltimore. Additionally, we offer Joshua Camp in June and July, a 10-day summer camp for children and youth from ages 6 to 12. The camp serves as a vehicle to assist low to moderate income families in our community. Also, we have a two-day Family Conference scheduled for November. We will address the challenges confronting the family and present biblically methods to empower the family. Multiple classes and Worship will be offered on those two days. Lastly, the church will celebrate my 5th Pastoral Anniversary on the following dates: April 19th 2013- Pastoral Banquet, April 24th – MidWeek Worship, and April 28th. Finally, I believe the Lord is compelling the people of God to stand unapologetically on the Word of God and to become Radical Witnesses for Christ.

G&G: Dr. Chambers, what would you say is your passion in ministry? What do you consider to be your strengths as a pastor? What would you say about this ministry to someone who is looking for a pastor and a church home?

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Former Pastors 1902 - 1906 Rev C.M. Ball Fields 1906 - 1909 Rev. E.C. Layne 1910 - 1924 Rev. R. B. H. Green 1926 - 1929 Rev. J.R.L. Coel 1932 - 1934 Rev. W.D.D. White 1938 - 1971 Rev. Dennis Barrow 1972 - 1977 Rev. Charles M. Franklin 1979 - 2005 Rev. Herman A. Ford

Present Pastor 2007 Rev. Dr. Michael A. Chambers 10 January January2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 10

Fountain Baptist Church was founded and organized by a group of Sisters and Brothers who assembled at the home of Sister Eliza Carey. Sister Carey lived in the 1500 block of N. Dallas Street in East Baltimore. There they sang, prayed, and talked about the goodness of God and His mighty works. This group consisted of Sister Eliza Carey, Rosa Hunter, Mildred E. McCormick, Lizzie Smith, Minnie Roy, Josephine Shaw, Roseline Redd, Rev. Jacob Darning, Deacons James Watkins, Eddie Watkins, Morgan Hunter, Sanders, Dan Taylor and Brother William Redd. In May 1902, The Rev. Jonnie Jones, Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, learned of this group of Christians through two of his Deacons, John Robinson and Doc Robinson. Rev. Jones met with Sister Rebecca Smothers and Sister Roseline Redd to arrange to have Rev. C.M. Ball Fields, of Philadelphia, PA to come to Baltimore and conduct a meeting. After the meeting, Rev. Jones and Rev. Fields assisted the group in organizing a church. The church was named “Fountain Baptist Church”; the name Fountain was derived from the hymn that was sung so often by Brother William Reed entitled, “There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood.”

bio

About

Reverend Dr.

Baltimore

Maryland

Michael A. Chambers SENIOR PASTOR

FOUNTAIN BAPTIST CHURCH BALTIMORE, MD

everend Dr. Michael A. Chambers was born in Kossuth, Mississippi on January 9, 1967. Dr. Chambers accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior in 1979. After completing military service, he responded to the call to ministry in 1990 and was ordained as a preacher of the gospel in 1992.

Dr. Chambers completed his undergraduate work at Faulkner University, in Montgomery, Alabama, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. He earned his Master of Divinity degree from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans, Louisiana and completed his Doctorate degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Chambers has served as Pastor for churches in Mississippi and Georgia. He now serves as Senior Pastor of Fountain Baptist Church, Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Chambers is married to the former Lizzie B. Davis and they are the parents of Nicholas, Nykia, Aja, and Sean. Dr. Michael Chambers is a servant of the King and a proclaimer of the gospel, who seeks to provide leadership according to the five purposes of the church: worship, evangelism, ministry, fellowship and discipleship.

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scripture

Philippians 3:12-14 (NIV) 12

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but

I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

v v v

Jeremiah 29:11-14 (NIV) 11

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you

and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back from captivity.[a]

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mayor’s mayor’sjournal journal

Mayor Rawlings-Blake Launches Effort to Improve Third Grade Reading

By Mayor Stephanie Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Rawlings-Blake I am so excited to have the support of school leaders, education advocates, students, teachers and volunteers as I announced the launch of Third Grade Reads, a new volunteer initiative to improve reading proficiency in students. The initiative combines Baltimore’s Grade Level Reading Campaign and the stepUp! Baltimore program, which leverages leverages the the energy energy of of community communityvolunteers volunteersto toaddress addressaacritical criticalchallenge challengeininthe thecity. city. Research readers is is often often determined determined by by third third grade grade Research confirms confirms that that our our children’s children’s opportunity’s opportunity’s at at becoming becoming great great readers potential. Those who cannot read proficiently by the end of third grade are at a disadvantage. Third Grade Reads potential. Those who cannot read proficiently by the end of third grade are at a disadvantage. Third Grade Reads helps and prepare prepare them them for for aa helps struggling struggling students students with with one-on-one one-on-one tutoring tutoring that that will will improve improve their their reading reading skills skills and successful future. successful future. According Baltimore third third grade grade students students are are not not reading reading proficiently. proficiently. According to to the the Maryland Maryland School School Assessment, Assessment, 35% 35% of of Baltimore Third Grade Reads targets 250 kids at four local elementary schools, Edgecombe Circle Elementary, Callaway Third Grade Reads targets 250 kids at four local elementary schools, Edgecombe Circle Elementary, Callaway Elementary, Friendship Academy at Cherry Hill, and Westport Academy, who are reading below proficiency and Elementary, Friendship Academy at Cherry Hill, and Westport Academy, who are reading below proficiency and providing them one-on-one volunteer literacy tutoring two hours a week. My initiative uses an evidence-based providing them one-on-one volunteer literacy tutoring two hours a week. My initiative uses an evidence-based tutoring curriculum, measures progress and results, and seeks to have these students achieve a one grade level tutoring curriculum, measures progress and results, and seeks to have these students achieve a one grade level increase in reading skills on average, after 26 hours of tutoring. increase in reading skills on average, after 26 hours of tutoring. Baltimore’s Baltimore’s Grade Level Reading Campaign is a combined effort of the Mayor’s Youth Cabinet and Baltimore’s Grade Level Campaign is a whose combined effort of the Mayor’s Youth and government Baltimore’s Coalition Coalition for Reading Grade Level Reading, members represent diverse localCabinet and state agencies, for Grade Level Reading, whose members represent diverse local and state government agencies, nonprofit nonprofit organizations, and the philanthropic community. While all these members act as a resource to Baltimore’s organizations, and the philanthropic community. all these membersthe actBaltimore as a resource Baltimore’s Third Third Grade Reads initiative, Third Grade ReadsWhile has three key partners, CitytoPublic Schools, the Grade Reads initiative, Third Grade Reads has three key partners, the Baltimore City Public Schools, the Family Family League of Baltimore City and Reading Partners. League of Baltimore City and Reading Partners. “Reading Partners is proud to work with the Mayor’s Office to ensure that every student in Baltimore has the skills “Reading Partners is proud to work withand the life,” Mayor’s to ensure everyPartners.” student in Baltimore has the skills they need to succeed in school, college, saidOffice Lisa Lazarus ofthat Reading they need to succeed in school, college, and life,” said Lisa Lazarus of Reading Partners.” The title sponsor for Third Grade Reads is Target, with additional funding from community partners including: the The title for Third Grade ReadsFoundation, is Target, with fundingFoundation, from community partners the Annie E.sponsor Casey Foundation, the Abell theadditional Shattuck Family the Aaron andincluding: Lillie Strauss Annie E. Casey the Abell Foundation, the Shattuck Family Foundation, the Aaron and Lillie Strauss Foundation, and Foundation, the Wright Family Foundation. Foundation, and the Wright Family Foundation. Residents interested in taking part in Third Grade Reads can visit www.thirdgradereads.com. Residents interested in taking part in Third Grade Reads can visit www.thirdgradereads.com. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 17 15 www.gracenglorymagazine.org

16 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

governor’s page

TheYear Year Ahead Ahead The by Governor Martin O’Malley

Governor O'Malley presents the year in review in Annapolis. Happy New Year! As we look towards the year ahead, we are often filled with a sense of promise and renewal. At the start of 2013, we have the opportunity in Maryland to renew our resolve to come together as a people, united in our commitment to making our families, our communities, and our State stronger. This year, we will be building on the important progress that we made together in 2012. Creating more than 35,500 private sector jobs over the past 12 months. Making record investments in K-12 education, while doing more than any other state in the nation to keep college tuition costs down. At the beginning of this new year, our priorities in Maryland remain the same. Creating jobs. Expanding opportunity. Increasing our investment in our #1 public schools. Making college education more affordable for more of our families. Driving down violent crime in our neighborhoods. And working to build a better, more sustainable future for our kids and our grandkids. In these challenging economic times, we certainly have challenges that lay ahead. But as Marylanders, we know that the only way we’re going to tackle our challenges is to do it together. And despite the challenges that we have yet to face, the strong and resilient people of Maryland remind us every single day that our best days are in front of us. That as a people, we are not done growing, and we are not done moving forward, that we still have it within us the ability to grow – not only jobs, opportunity, and prosperity – we have it within us the ability to grow in our understanding of one another, our respect for one another, our love of one another, our compassion for one another. At the heart of it all, our progress has been fueled by fundamental beliefs that we all share as Marylanders. Our belief in the dignity of every individual. Our belief in our own responsibility to advance the common good. And an understanding that we're all in this together. That there is a unity to spirit and matter, and what we do in our own lifetimes does matter. Thank you for everything you do, every single day, to move our State and our country forward. And thank you for risking action on the faith that one person can make a difference, and each of us must try. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 17

18 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

education digest • Write down your goal. Experts recommend stating your goal in positive terms, such as “I want to be lean and physically fit,” instead of “I’ve got to get this flabby body out there huffing and puffing.” So, begin with writing down, as a positive goal, the habit you will change. • List your reasons for changing or eliminating your habit. Writing it down will force you to think out in specific terms what this habit represents in your life and the meaning you believe your life will hold for you upon changing the habit. This will also help with your commitment toward taking positive action. • Find substitute routines. For example, if you are changing eating habits and you have identified a particularly difficult time of the day when eating habits are poor, create an activity, a new routine for that time.

Lessons Learned Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

• Talk to yourself. Tell yourself you’re making progress. Remind yourself that you are moving closer to your goal. Talk to yourself throughout the day about how you are going to avoid triggers that can get you off track and make healthy substitutes. • Recruit helpers for support. Explain to them why you are making this change. Ask for their support. Their support may be needed encouragement. • Be prepared for people who may sabotage your change. Be assertive and tell them what they are doing.

– Philippians 3:13-14 “I am ready to make a big change.” Does this sound familiar? “I am going to make 2013 my best year yet.” What about this one, “I am on my way to the top.” Most of us have already made commitments this year to change old habits and develop new ones. A habit is an acquired behavior, a pattern we regularly follow until it becomes almost voluntary. Our habits can be positive or negative. They can affect our physical and spiritual health, our relationships with others and with God. As I reflect on this past year and the one God is blessing me to experience now, I would declare there have been some lessons learned. As we begin this New Year, here’s another lesson worth learning. In fact, we must be intentional in our approach to make serious life changes. Experts at Florida International University suggest that it takes 21 days to break a bad habit. Let’s begin that first day today. These are some suggested tips offered by the Florida experts.

Many years ago I began putting onto paper my lessons learned. It’s called journaling. I am amazed, even today, by what I find written on its pages. They remind me of how I have managed to do away with old habits and develop new ones. I can’t take credit for the successes in my life; all the Glory belongs to God. As you begin this New Year, join me in becoming a much-improved student of life, a student with more lessons to learn.

Dr. Tim Tooten, Sr. is an Emmy Award winning Education Reporter for WBAL-TV (NBC) in Baltimore. He’s also the Founding Pastor of Harvest Christian Ministries in Baltimore County, Maryland

Dr. Dr. Tim Tim Tooten, Tooten, Sr. Sr. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 21 19 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 19 www.gracenglorymagazine.org

20 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

word on finances

FINANCIAL WELLNESS Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, II To book Dr. Kenneth O. Robinson, II for your next seminar, conference or service, call:

410.415.6400, ext. 105

God’s Money in Caesar’s Pockets It is tax season and the Bible has a lot to say about the Christian attitude toward taxes. Jesus said to the citizens of His day under pagan Roman rule, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” Luke 20:25 One of the major issues on the political agenda today is how much control should the government have in the affairs of the American people. One of the fears of the American people today is too much government interference in the personal affairs of the public. Several years ago, Bill Gates, chief executive officer (CEO) of Microsoft, Inc. was subpoenaed by the government in an attempt to stop his monopolization and to control his selfmade billion-dollar empire. Also, in the government’s attempt to revitalize the communities, reconstruct housing in desolate areas, rebuild our failing education system, reform wealth and health plans, rehabilitate our criminals and drug addicts, feed the poor, etc., we must understand that all of the efforts will inevitably require more taxes and possibly restrict and regulate religious freedoms. The more people (especially Christians) that depend on the government or this world’s economic system, the greater the control. So what we call government improvement means personal detriment. The problem is if you have a government that does not acknowledge or fear God, the regulatory and

compliance laws to these needy recipients can slowly edge their faith or God out. Yet Jesus gives us the command, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s.” To render means to fulfill one’s duty to someone; to give what is due; to give back, re-compensate, and restore. An earth state provides the welfare of its citizens who are obligated to support the government. But the citizens of God’s kingdom also owe allegiance to Him. In other words, we are only supposed to give Caesar what is due, not anything more. This is why a good tax accountant or strategist is important. As Christians, we have to honor God with our substance (Proverbs 3). Therefore when we pay taxes, good stewardship is required so that we give to the Lord’s work also. God’s money does not belong in Caesar’s pockets. According to Deuteronomy 26:12-19, the tithe (10% of your money earnings) is holy and set apart for the Lord. Also, we are admonished by the Apostle Paul to give offerings to support ministry (II Corinthians 8:1-7). We are also encouraged in scripture to give to the poor and the needy. None of this can be done with God’s money in Caesar’s pockets. So what can we begin to do to keep God’s money out of Caesar’s pockets? Here are some tips: 1) Make sure you are giving your employer an honest day’s work (Ephesians 4:28). Work to make a giving, not just a living. Your attitude toward work affects your ability to increase your salary and resources. (Ecclesiastes 5:19). 2) If employed, see your Human Resources Department and make sure you are claiming the proper exemptions. Sometimes you are getting an excess amount of taxes taken out early and you could be investing that money to increase your ability to give. 3) If a business owner or self-employed, sit down with someone who knows how to find the maximum deductions available to you. As clergy, you have many tax benefits like housing allowances and FICA exemptions if you qualify. This will help you keep God’s money out of Caesar’s pockets. 4) Be a tither! Don’t be a God robber. Whenever you give or render to God what is God’s and take care of his kingdom, He will take care of yours (Matthew 6:33; Malachi 3:8-12) If you follow these simple instructions, they will help you maintain a proper balance between what monies to render to Caesar (the government) and what to render to God’s kingdom work. Most of all, you will be keeping God’s money out of Caesar’s pockets.

www.gracenglorymagazine.org 21

22 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

to your good health

“

write the vision and follow the path that will let you finally accomplish your goals.”

The New Year brings with it new hopes, new goals, new experiences and new challenges. Many of us have taken time to evaluate last year’s blessings and burdens and have vowed to learn from them, build upon them or to discard them altogether. Whatever category you find the most items in is usually the area that gets the most attention at least initially. We usually desire to attack what has become broken, misaligned or is just not worth salvaging. It is these issues that seem to bear the most distractions and when addressed would alleviate the stress related to them. No matter what your priority list includes this year, be encouraged that it is never too late to do what God is requiring of you. Whether it is a fresh start in your relationships, getting your finances in order or returning to school. They can all be accomplished with a new and godly perspective. Lamentations 3:22-23 gives us the hope that no matter what challenges we may face or goals we have set God is with us. We are reminded that, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” There is always hope when we consult God concerning our to do list and make our priorities match his priorities for our life. Many times we set out to work on problems or address goals that God has not ordained. We need to seek God in all our ways and let Him direct our paths. There is no need to make plans to renew your life, your relationships, your cash flow or your eating habits without seeking God. Proverbs 19:21 tells us why seeking God first is a prudent use of time and an act of obedience, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” It is never too late to do what you have always wanted to do or those things you need to do. Getting them done is a matter of making the time to pray, write the vision and follow the path that will let you finally accomplish your goals. Do not procrastinate any longer. Make the time to follow through on the vision and do the work required of you. It does not matter how long it takes to see your vision come to pass. It is never too late so do not give up. Carla J. Debnam, MS, LCPC Executive Director, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center

www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 25 25 www.gracenglorymagazine.org 23

24 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

from the pulpit

From the

Pulpit

ell, it’s that wonderful time of year…the time when we hunker down and refocus on all of our goals and desires in life as we start a new year! Yet there can also be something very haunting about this time for many. As the year turns I hear more and more expressions of frustration as people vent about what hasn’t come to pass in their lives yet. Amidst all the hope, fertility and expectation that come with the New Year, it is also a reminder that yet another year has passed, and, perhaps, we still have not accessed our promise land. How do we walk in this place of such polarization? Charles Dickens put it as such, “It was the best of times, and it was the worst of times.” The Best of times are most notably marked by the incredible opportunities that lay ahead and the joy that we experience when expectantly peering into our prophetic futures. The worst of times are most notably marked by the discouragement we sense as we realize that all though we’ve left Egypt, Canaan seems a life time away. So, how do we walk in new places? So glad you asked. No book gives a description of how to walk in new places quite like Joshua. The third chapter of Joshua gives some amazing practical keys to walking in New places. The chapter begins by saying that “Joshua rose early”. Though we know this refers to a time before or at dawn, it more specifically points to the spiritual and mental posture of Joshua during this time. When someone rises early they do so usually because they are expecting something or they know flightor orhaving having they have to be somewhere by a certain time like catching catchingaflight an appointment. Joshua rose with expectation and so must we! Then in the very same verse the scripture says that they moved from Shittim to Jordan (about an 8 mile walk), but I was startled by what the scripture would say next: “they lodged there”. As dignified as that word lodge sounds I can assure you that there was quite a bit of frustration and attitude. Doesn’t that sound like some of our lives…Hurry up and wait! Just when it seems like we are getting ahead right in the same verse we are made to lie down and “lodge”. We become like a three year old at nap time; the very last thing on our mind is sleep or delay. We want our promise, and we want it NOW! Yet there is great importance in this time of lodging. This grueling, frustrating, seemingly disappointing time of “lodging” is designed to do several things. 1. It teaches us to live life in balance- Joshua rose early strapped with expectation, and yet he was able to rest when it was time to rest. So many of us burn out like a wick burning at both ends because we just don’t live life in balance. Balance is key for walking in new places. Have you ever hiked a new trail or tried walking in the ocean on ground you couldn’t see? Then you’ll note how difficult it would be to do it again if you didn’t have reasonably good balance. Your balance has less to do with the

Walking in New Places

By Tim Manigault Founder of Healing Voice Ministries www.iluvworship.com www.healingvoice.tv Follow on Twitter @iluvworship Facebook.com/iluvworship Facebook.com conditions you are walking in and more to do with you. So, how are you scheduling your life? Do you even have a schedule? Schedules are not for “high profile” moguls or people who are trying to be “all that”. Schedules are for people who are attempting to live life in balance. 2. Lodging has a way of settling you and calming the soul. It will literally strengthen expectation while it weakens and ultimately puts to sleep expectations evil twin…anxiety. Think about it; walking in new places can tend to bring quite a bit of anxiety. Most people usually like to control their life but control usually requires insight and or information which most of us don’t have in new places. Remember this: anxiety can only be seated in the place that should be reserved for Godly expectation. Lodging at the Jordan gives you strength to master anxiety. In verse three we see the overarching command of walking in new places as the scripture proclaims “Remove from your place and Go after it”. It is important to note that the “It” in this text is the Ark of the Covenant which was symbolic of God Almighty. That’s huge to note, because the “it” is not interchangeable with our agenda, dreams, material possessions, or high hopes but purely God Almighty. This realization frames our entire journey; when our pursuit is genuinely God our motives are refined, and we are made ever purer in every venture. I know you may be asking: “does that mean that I shouldn’t go after my dreams? What about the things that I feel that God has put on my heart etc.?” Let me ask you a question…when you look at your dream, vision, or promise do you see God? Do you see His Glory? Do you see His heart being filled with joy by your efforts? If so, my friend it’s time to “Remove from your place and Go after it!” Finally, let me note this; unlike the Red Sea the waters did not part before they walked in. This time would be different; the water would not part until the priest actually stepped in. It is almost as if the priest and what they carried was enough to induce a miracle. They would not wait for someone to raise a staff or wait for the conditions to change. This time nature, consisting of seasons, would wait for the “sons of God” to tell it what to do and Joshua did just that. They, with every step taken into water that had not yet parted, declared to the season “you must change”. Nature, waiting with baited breath replied in obedience and so will your season! But it will not respond to a faith that stands on the banks waiting for lightning to flash; no, not this time. This time, your season will respond to a faith that says I’m removing from where I am and Going after it even if I have to step into a river that hasn’t parted yet. My friend, I declare that you are sufficient in all grace, and that you have ALL that you need to divinely achieve it so… “Go after it!” www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 25 31

26 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

bookshelf

Book Shelf You Have it in You

A Call to Prayer By Sheryl Brady

By Germaine Copeland

I have to admit that when I first heard that this book was coming Happy New Year! out months ago I got really excited. Not knowing what the text would With every NEW be about, I knew with everything in Year comes NEWbook would me that this particular bless me. The title alone attracted commitments. What me as soon as I read it, and the better commitment author, well, let’s just call me a for year “fan!”this When shethan speaks,a I listen, so I just knew that commitment orI had re-to get the book. And that I did, but not commitment tohusband prayer.got I only did I get it, my the audio. Here aarelittle our thoughts read a book while on You Have it in Y ou by Sheryl Brady. back that, in light of

I, like many of you whohas are reading this, have everything that happened inbeen ourin the “Church World” all my life. So, it is very seldom nation and across the world in this when you come across someone who seems to live life past year,at Ia place decided to reread. This and impart that is always fresh. That, my friend, is true of Pastor Sheryl Brady. It doesn’t matter month’s recommendation is A Call if I get a chance to catch a service streaming online or to Prayer by Germaine Copeland. get sent an old youtube clip. It’s always fresh. I think one of the keys to always being fresh is to always say

This is a teaching book. Germaine what He says. Needless to say that in this book, she Copeland teaches you about prayer, strikes again. Weaving a seamless thread between old testament new testament,of male and female, about theand importance prayer, young and old, Pastor Brady lays out, not only the about thethat power and confirmation you have it ineffectiveness you, but what exactly thatprayer, “IT” looksand like within. it’s Ruth’ of aboutWhether how to pray.s resolve with Naomi, Hannah’ s unquenchable thirst This book is full of Scriptures, which for motherhood, or Pastor Brady’s own courageous in a book prayer saga,my thisopinion book will stir the heartof of every reader who is not looking another cliché or rhyming should befor full of, that both layslogan the to coach them through some of the most difficult but foundation of prayer as well as the pregnant seasons of their life. Pastor Brady builds building go ontotop. the firmest ofblocks Scripturalthat foundations launch this responsibly prophetic declaration… You Have it in

Germaine Copeland challenges the You! church by saying, “The time has come Timothy Manigault for the entire church to answer @iluvworship the call to prayer-those in the fivefold ministry and members alike. We do not In mychurch opinion, what makes a nonfiction book a goodany book is whether or not I stay captivated need more divisions, but instead,

by Brandie Manigault

by the text as I would reading a fictional

harmony which will novel. You and Haveagreement, it in You had my attention from come cover to cover.ifSheryl Brady managed only about we pray scripturally to take her real life experience as led by the Spirit.” mix it with real life stories She also addresses from people in the Bible, add some life coaching, life lessons, pastors dealing inspiration, and encouragement, withaintercessors, to produce book that, no matterintercessors where you are in life, will dealing cause you to grow. with their pastors, As I was thismembers book, I andreading group was amazed by how many of the of an Iintercessory small details missed in the most popular Biblical stories. Sheryl team.

yourself. Ok… one more! “When our perspective

forgiveness, abiding ingrace Christ, changes, it somehow unlocks the that we and need to get around every thatwill threatens progress.” praying the hurdle Lord’s andour not selfish WOW. Simple and profound. desires. A Call to Prayer highlights I was especially withand each help Biblicalyou your motivesimpressed for prayer story line she chose to use; each had their own to correctly andofwith set pray of “issues” and because Sherylmaximum Brady’s presentation of their lives, I found myself in effectiveness.

them. I could identify with the author’s feelings of

being insignificant. I understood some degree A Call to Prayer is a littleto hard to how Ruth felt having to start a whole new life find because it is an older book. I suddenly. I know what it’s like to be the “unlikely” found itlike onRahab; Amazon.com $3.99. It candidate there alwaysfor being a seemingly better, more qualified person to do the is definitely worth the search. There job. And I have also been amazed at the Lord’s is no specific audience that I can methods of provision like Elijah. I saw myself in their struggles and in their triumphs, and in has the recommend this book for. Prayer areas that I was not strong in, You Have it in You no age limit, gender specification or provided the tools needed to take the next step. cultural borders. It is for everyone. So, Sheryl Brady did not fail me when it came to in my pen opinion, to Prayer putting to paper,AasCall I suspected that she by wouldn’t. I suggest everyonewas get awritten copy of You Germaine Copeland for Have it in You. It will motivate you. It will inspire everyone.

Brady brought the stories that I have heard over This the years to life. Shepoints gave book also Hannah emotion out and Isomething felt her pain, as she a somethingthat that cried out to the Lord for a son, like I’ve never most people like felt it. One of mydon’t favorite linestointhink regards to Hannahbecause and her heart’s desire, without giving about it spotlights areas too much away, is this, “If God has laid it on our of their that mightit not line all hearts, then life nothing can remove until he grants the wayit, up… it, refuses or takesconditions away our desireto forprayer; it.” The you. It will cause the you that is on the inside, that entire book is full of statements like this that you didn’t know existed, to come out and push you make you pause and say, “you know you’re into destiny. Get two copies, one for you and one The Author right!” You Have it in You reminds you, from About for someone you think needs help recognizing the chapter to chapter, how big your God really Germaine Copeland greatness that God has put inside of them. is, assures you of His decision to call you to Germaine Copeland, founder of Word Ministries is greatness, and challenges you to believe in Brandie(WMI), @iambandaid a writer and inspirational speaker. As she speaks, people are encouraged by her insight on praying effectively; many The Author experience About emotional healing, and learn the dividing line of soulish and spiritual praying. Germaine’s vision for Word Pastor Sheryl Bradya Global intercessory prayer Ministries (WMI) is to coordinate network that covers every nation, tribe, language . . . a pastor, lecturer and recording artist,people Pastor and Sheryl Brady with prayers that avail much. has traveled extensively around the globe for more than 30 years.

serves as the campus prayer pastor of The Potter’s House of North Germaine travels nationally and She internationally conducting schools, speaking at churches, conferences, and other groups. Dallas under the leadership of Bishop T.D. Jakes. She has been a featured guest on many television networks and a guest lecturer for Germaine is an Executive Network of International Ministries (IbM), the Member God’s Leading Ladies LifeBreakthrough Enrichment Program hosted by and Mrs.a member of Deborah Company. Serita Jakes. Pastor Brady also serves as a featured conference speaker and has ministered at events suchMuch as the internationally Germaine is the author of A Global Call to Prayer, the Prayers That Avail book series, 365 acclaimed Woman ThouPrayers Art Loosed ManPower where she was the first Days to aMegaFest, Prayer-Filled Life, and Thatand Avail Much for Conference, Daily Living (Charisma House). She female speaker ever. Pastor Brady has appeared as a guest artist on the Grammy-nominated live is also a contributing author of Women’s Destiny Bible (Thomas Nelson) and Impart Magazine. recording of and Bishop D. Jakes’ Everette, Woman, Thou Loosed, which she co-wrote the title cut. She and Germaine herT.husband, haveArt four adult for children, eleven grandchildren and eleven her husband of more than thirty-five Bishop Joby Brady, have three daughters Lana, Tina and great-grandchildren. They reside inyears, Greensboro, Georgia. Nina, and five grandchildren. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 27

28 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

womans perspective womans perspective

womans perspective

Last year we were faced with challenges and

atmosphere to a more peaceful, loving environment.

obstacles; things that we thought were going to Lastyear yearwewewere werefaced facedwith withchallenges challengesand and Last knock us out of the box. But God . . . Yes, But God obstacles;things thingsthat thatwewethought thoughtwere weregoing goingto to obstacles; saved us from losing our mind, losing our heart and knock box. But God . Yes, But God knock usus outout of of thethe box. But God . . . .Yes, But God Last year we were faced with challenges and giving up on the world. But God . . . Yes, But God saved from losing mind, losing heart and saved usus from losing ourour mind, losing ourour heart and obstacles; things that to wegetthought wereand going gave us another chance it together get itto giving world. But God . Yes, But God giving upup onon thethe world. But God . . . .Yes, But God knock us out of the box. But God . . . Yes, But God right. gave another chance it together and gave usus another chance to to getget it together and getget it it saved us from losing our mind, losing our heart and right. right. giving up on the Butinstead God . . of . Yes, But God I am proposing toworld. you that us making

Let’s focus on infusing positivity in the universe and atmosphere a more peaceful, loving environment. atmosphere to to a more peaceful, loving environment. bettering ourselves. Let’s focus infusing positivity universe and Let’s focus onon infusing positivity in in thethe universe and

gave usresolutions another chance get itthe together and get it empty we to Shift Atmosphere. I am proposing you that instead making I am proposing to to you that instead of of usus making right. Sometimes we sit back and let life happen instead of emptyresolutions resolutionsweweShift ShiftthetheAtmosphere. Atmosphere. empty living life. Let’s take a new approach and shift our Sometimes back and happen instead Sometimes wewe sitsit back and letlet lifelife happen instead of of I am proposing to you that instead of us making living life. Let’s take a new approach and shift living life. Let’s take a new approach and shift ourour empty resolutions we Shift the Atmosphere. Sometimes we sit back and let life happen instead of

bettering ourselves. bettering ourselves. atmosphere to a more loving environment. Until next time . . . peaceful, Shift your atmosphere with Let’s focus on infusing positivity in the universe and Love. Until next time Shift your atmosphere with Until next time . .. .. .Shift your atmosphere with bettering ourselves. Love. Love. Cassandra Vaughn Until next timeVaughn . Vaughn . . Shift your atmosphere with Cassandra Cassandra Love. Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Out Foxed Media, Cassandra Vaughn Cassandra Vaughn-Fox www.outfoxedmedia.org Cassandra Vaughn-Fox Out Foxed Media, Out Foxed Media, www.outfoxedmedia.org www.outfoxedmedia.org

www.gracenglorymagazine.org 37 www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 29 29

Cassandra Vaughn-Fox

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30 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

www.gracenglorymagazine.orgâ&#x20AC;&#x192; 31

32 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

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34 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

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38 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

teen connect

As we look around us we see a society that is falling apart at the seams and a generation that is hurting. Our generation is feeling the brunt of unresolved issues. Many of our friends and family will start the New Year worried and concerned about the year to come. But as believers in Christ, we know there is a silver lining; we know there is an alternative. It’s time to take action. The Bible states in 2 Chronicles 7:14 (paraphrased) – If God’s people respond by humbling themselves, praying, seeking His presence and turning their backs on their wicked lives that He would be there ready for us, He’ll listen from Heaven, forgive our sins and restore the land to health. We must be the change that we want to see.

Happy New Year! Can you believe another year is here? Well, for most of us we begin to think about New Year’s resolutions. Some of you will want to do better in school, commit to spending more time with family, lose weight or learn a new language. Be that as it may, New Year’s resolutions are a symbol of acknowledgement, commitment and a readiness to take action.

As you sit down to make your New Year’s resolutions, consider making one of them a greater commitment to Christ. Whether it’s spending more time in prayer, reading the Bible or attending church regularly. In 2013 together we can take action and make a huge difference! Pastors Gregory & Tonya Dennis KINGDOM WORSHIP CENTER

6419 York Road, Towson, MD 21212

410-377-3500

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gospel industr y news

By Ericka J.

Stanley Brown Geo Bevins, General Manager of Verity Gospel Music Group, has named Stanley Brown the new head of A & R for Verity. Stanley Brown has truly left his imprint in music as a musician, but not stopping there, he’s climbing the corporate ladder in the music industry making it happen for so many people. He was Sr. Director of A&R at Verity and was key to the signing of Jason Nelson, Deon Kipping, and LaTice Crawford. He’s been in the music business for 20 plus years as a musician, producer, and label executive. He was the Music Director for BET’s Sunday’s Best Competition, and he serves as the music director at his home church Greater Allen Cathedral of New York (Rev. FLoyd Flake). He was also A&R Director for Island Black Music Group, where he worked with Baltimore’s Own R& B Group Dru Hill. While there he signed Donald Lawrence, Karen Clark Sheard, TD Jakes, and a few others. Cheryl Macks Big things are also happening for Cheryl Macks, in the shuffle at Verity she’s been promoted to Sr. Director of Marketing. She’s known for her amazing campaign for Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, and THE WOW Gospel series. Since 1988, when Verity started as a division of RCA Records, it has been blazing the trails. It’s roster has some of the industry’s very best, including Kirk Franklin, Byron Cage, Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, Jason Nelson, Deon Kipping, J Moss, Donnie McClurkin, Marvin Sapp, and Richard Smallwood. The label has snagged 13 gold and 10 platinum certified releases and keeps feeding the charts with Top 10 Hits!! “We are excited about the future of Verity Gospel Music Group and the viability of Gospel Music”, says Tom Corson, President & COO, RCA Records, “We are committed to aggressively leading the label to achiee unprecedented success in the marketplace.” I’m extremely excited about what’s to come from Verity and its new placements! Congrats Stanley & Cheryl!! Isaac Caree Isaac announced that he’s signed a deal with Central South Distribution, as well as a new management agreement with EJ Gaines of Pathlight Music. Singer, songwriter, and producer, Isaac has been lacing the music industry for 15 plus years. He is a former member of the group Men of Standard that had a very successful run as well, before he decided it was time to venture into a solo career. He’s experienced huge success with his freshman album “Uncommon Me”, the project debuted at #1 along with his single “In The Middle” which stayed at #1 for 8 consecutive weeks. Isaac is already setting things in motion for his sophomore project, grabbing some of the industry’s great producers and songwriters; Gerald & Tammi Haddon, who actually wrote “In The Middle”, and Eric Dawkins who was largely responsible for the musical creation of the debut album. For those who may not know Isaac got his start with two gospel living legends John P Kee, and Hezekiah Walker. “I’m grateful and very excited about the new partnership with Central South, my goal is to continue building on the firm foundation we have started, and I believe the partnership with CSD will help achieve that on a larger scale.” I’m excited about the new release and “newness” God has granted u IKE! Can’t wait to hear the project in 2013 on his own label, Door 6 Entertainment.

40 January 2013 | Grace&Glory January 2013 | Grace&Glory 40 40 January 2013 | Grace&Glory

www.facebook.com/ErickaJohnson Follow Me www.twitter.com/MissErickaJ If you have news and industry info you would like to share email me missericka75@yahoo.com

gospel industr y news

Congrats to Verity Gospel Music Grou p, for being at the top of Billboard’s Top Year End Charts. Out of the Top 25 Albums of 2012, four of them are Verity Artists- #1 WOW Gospel 2012, #2 Marvin Sapp, #3 Fred Hammond, and #4 Jason Nels on (Baltimore’s Own) Whoop Whoop! At #8 Kirk Franklin, while “He llo Fear” was released in 2011, he’s still in 2012’s Top Charts! The Top songs belong to Verity Artists, My Testimony- Marvin Sapp, Shifting the Atmosphere- Jason Nelson, I Feel Good- Fred Hammond, and A God Like You- Kirk Franklin. ITunes Also released their Top Gospel Albums of 2012, six of them are Verity Artists, WOW 2012- V4, The Other Side- J MOSS, God, Love & Romance- Fred Hammond, I Just Wan na Hear You- Deon Kipping, and Memoirs of A Worshipper- Byron Cag e.

James Fortune Congrats to James Fortune on his two Grammy Nominations and 2 Stellar nominations, he was also named #1 on Billboard’s Best of 2012 Gospel Songs & Gospel Artists. He’s also announced the signing of his new management partnership with EJ Gaines and Pathlight Top Gospel Songs Music, this will be 1. Tak e Me to the King- Tamela Mann James’ first time signing a management partnership, and is excited 2. Hold On- James Fortune & FIYA to work with Gaines this year! feat Monica & Dee Dee Showell Legacy Awards Well it’s that time again! The Dee Dee Showell Legacy Awards and Concert, a night where the life and legacy of Deidre Showell is commemorated, and the musical gifts of Baltimore are recognized and celebrated. This year church choirs are being highlighted, in addition to the other categories. Last year’s celebration was a tremendous success, and the wheels are in motion to make this year’s celebration even greater! Log onto www.deedeeshowell.org and cast your votes for: Favorite Female Vocalist, Male Vocalist, Church Choir, Church Band, Community Choir, Female Radio Announcer, Male Radio Announcer, New Artist, Praise Team. February 17th, Save the Date!!! This is a night u don’t want to miss!! Full details and ballot at www.deedeeshowell.org.

Fred Hammond’s 3. It’s Not Over- Israel & New Bre ed 4. Awesome- Charles Jenkins & Fell owship Chicago 5. Life & Favor- John P Kee & New Life 6. Shifting the Atmosphere- Jason Nelson 7. Testimony- Anthony Brown & Gro up Therapy 8. Let the Church Say Amen- Andre Crouch feat. Marvin 9. God’s Up to Something- Hart Ram sey & NCC Family Choir 10. Turning Around for Me- VaShaw n Mitchell

Top Gospel Albums

1. Gravity - LaCrae 2. Best Days- Tamela Mann 3. Well Done- Joshua Rogers 4. Amazing Grace- Rance Allen Group 5. Christmas with Earnest PughEarnest Pugh 6. Jesus at the Center-Live- Isra el & New Breed 7. Go Get It- Mary Mary 8. WOW Gospel 2012 9. The Evolution- Larry Callaha n & Selected of God 10. Best Days Yet- Bishop Paul Morton

Welcome to 2013!!! If you’re reading this, that’s a victory all in itself!! Welcome to a year full of new grace, new mercies, new beginnings, new life, new victories, newness is in the air, embrace it!!! Happy New Year!!!! Til next month www.facebook.com/MisserickaJ www.facebook. com/industrynewswithMissErickaJ www.twitter.com/misserickaj www.instagram.com/misserickaj

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fashion focus

Jewelry in winter is tricky ground; delicate creations are generally out and chunky pieces in - and for good reason; getting your chandelier earring tangled up in your knitted scarf is never fun, especially when it’s still attached to your ear...So think big and bold - and rather select pieces that won’t snag or tangle in your knitwear; wide cuff-bracelets and chunky geometric neck pieces look great with a simple knit, as does an over-sized chain necklace with a blouse. Remember scarves, hats and gloves are accessories too; so if you’re wearing a scarf you don’t need a necklace, and if you’re wearing a gorgeous pair of gloves - there’s no need to over-style with bracelets. When it comes to earrings, less ‘dangle’ is definitely key for winter; opt for a pair which won’t interfere with the neck-area of your outfit - styles which fit onto the ear work best and tangle-less. This year’s fall and winter jewelry and accessories is about boldness, power and much “bling”. This was evident on all the major fashion runways. Here are some tips for this Fall/Winter 2012-2013 jewelry and accessories: • Grab some Studded Bracelets, Earrings and Belts in this season’s hottest colors. • Get as many fashion items as you can in purple, teal, wine and my favorite leopard. • Lookout for fashion jewelry with a burst of color in bright gemstones, CZ’s, Swarovski and Australian Crystals. Even if the funds are low, try incorporating your best colorful Rhinestone Jewelry. • Earrings are always essential for today’s trendy fashion woman. Try on Chandelier Earrings, Dangle Earrings and your favorite Large Hoop Earrings. Anyone who watches TV today knows that the Basketball Wives continue to set trends for style in this category. • One of the trends that will never go out of style for me is the “Rock your faith” accessories. I love the explosion of Rhinestone Cross Earrings, Bracelets and Multilayered Cross Necklaces. What an inspirational and stylish way to express yourself.

So to summarize:

Colors – Purple, Teal, Wine, Black and Leopard. Jewelry – Studded, Large Crystal, Gemstones and Rhinestones in an array of colors. Other Accessories – Studded Belts, and Footwear. 42 January January2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 42

person of interest

Multiple Â Award-ÂWinning Â Artist Â And Â Worship Â Leader Â Byron Â Cage Â Still Â Serving Â A Â Great Â & Â Mighty Â God By Â Andrea Â R. Â Williams Â Who Â could Â have Â imagined Â a Â young Â kid Â from Â Grand Â Rapids, Â Michigan, Â would Â grow Â up Â and Â change Â the Â landscape Â of Â a Â genre? Â Urban Â praise Â and Â worship Â hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Â been Â the Â same Â since Â Byron Â Cage Â entered Â the Â scene. Â Songs Â like Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Â Presence Â of Â the Â Lordâ&#x20AC;?, Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Â Will Â Bless Â The Â Lordâ&#x20AC;? Â and Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Broken Â But Â Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Â Healedâ&#x20AC;? Â are Â just Â a Â few Â of Â the Â songs Â by Â this Â psalmist, Â songs Â heard Â in Â choir Â stands Â nationally Â Sunday Â after Â Sunday. Â Â From Â the Â reverence Â of Â spirited Â worship Â to Â the Â energetic Â power Â of Â dynamic Â praise, Â Byron Â !'% >/62 %!2),8 &1/- /.% 238,% 3/ !./3(%1 ,3(/4'( 3(% '/20%, 5/#!,)23 (!2 1%#%)5%$ .4-%1/42 !##/,!$%2 ).#,4$).' 2)7 3%,,!1 6!1$2 !.$ ! /4, 1!). 6!1$ !2 6%,, !2 /5%

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At Â The Â Apollo: Â The Â Proclamation Â followed Â suit Â giving Â fans Â 2/.'2 ,)+% : )3( ,, & 8 )'(3; !.$ : /8!,38; "/3( &!. favorites Â and Â consistent Â titles Â on Â the Â gospel Â charts. Â Faithful Â To Â Believe Â was Â next Â which Â spawned Â hits Â like Â the Â lead Â single Â !.$ : )5% /4 1!)2%; ')5).' !'% ()2 2)73( 3%,,!1 6!1$ 3()2 3)-% &/1 !,% /#!,)23 /& 3(% %!1 !.$ ! 6!1$ /-).!3)/. &/1 %23 /20%, ,"4- Â Â Memoirs Â of Â a Â Worshipper Â is Â Cageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â latest Â project Â and Â it Â gives Â fans Â just Â what Â they Â expect Â from Â the Â anointed Â songwriter Â and Â singer. Â The Â projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â lead Â track, Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Â and Â Mightyâ&#x20AC;?, Â is Â a Â rousing Â track Â about Â the Â amazing Â characteristics Â of Â God. Â

,1%!$8 ()33).' 3(% /0 %. 3(% 31!#+ )2 ,%!5).' 6/12()00%12 6)3( (!.$2 ,)&3%$ (% !,2/ &%!341%2 ! 2%1-/.%33% !2 the Â intro Â for Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Â

.8(/6; $%,)5%1%$ by Â chart-Âtopper Â Pastor Â Charles Â Jenkins Â of Â : 6%2/-%; &!-% 3(%1 2/.'2 ,)+% : 43 & (%- ,,; : : 1/4",%2

6!8; !.$ : )#3/18; &%!341).' Fred Â Hammond Â show Â that Â Cage Â still Â has Â the Â Midas Â touch Â when Â it Â comes Â to Â praise Â and Â worship. Â Cage Â is Â thrilled Â about Â the Â new Â 1%,%!2% : /1 3()2 .%6 #/,,%#3)5%,8 043 2/.'2 3/'%3(%1 6)3( !1/. Lindsey Â that Â I Â felt Â would Â be Â the Â next Â level Â of Â worship. Â The Â times Â are Â changing;Íž Â the Â sounds Â of Â keyboards Â and Â instruments Â are Â changing. Â What Â 1%!,,8 6!.3%$ 3/ "1).' /43 /. 3()2 6!2 3/ 2(!1% 6)3( %5%18"/$8 6(!3 <- 61)3).' !.$ 6(!3<2 ). -8 -%-/)12 ,3(/4'( <- 23),, ')5).' the Â message Â of Â faith Â and Â a Â message Â of Â hope, Â this Â is Â a Â stronger Â worship Â album. Â Some Â of Â the Â songs Â that Â I Â selected Â are Â so Â strong Â worship Â wise Â that Â itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â really Â a Â vertical Â message Â that Â Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Â not Â talking Â about Â my Â problems Â anymore. Â Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Â talking Â about Â God Â who Â can Â solve Â all Â problems.â&#x20AC;? Â Cage Â was Â recently Â tapped Â as Â Minister Â of Â Music Â at Â St. Â Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â Baptist Â (41#( ). )#(-/.$ 6(%1% 1 !.#% !32/. 2%15%2 !2 !23/1

,1%!$8 2%15).' &/1 3(% 0!23 8%!12 !2 3(% %.)/1 ).)23%1 /& (41#( /12()0 !.$ 42)# $-).)231!3)/. !3 "%.%9%1 (41#( ). /13 !2().'3/. 4.$%1 3(% 0!23/1!3% /& %5 12 1!).'%1 / .. Browning, Â Cage Â relishes Â the Â opportunity Â to Â serve Â at Â two Â great Â mega-Â churches Â simultaneously. /3 /.% 3/ 2)3 /. ()2 ,!41%,2 81/. !'% )2 3!#+,).' %5%. -/1% new Â roles. Â Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â been Â named Â the Â new Â Sunday Â Joy Â radio Â personality Â on Â !2().'3/. <2 !$)/ .%<2 1!)2% <2 .20)1!3)/. Station Â welcomed Â Cage Â to Â its Â Sunday Â afternoon Â slot Â where Â he Â hosts Â from Â .//. 3/ % )2 3(1),,%$ !"/43 3(% /00/134.)38 3/ %70!.$ 3(% 1%!#( /& his Â ministry. Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Â am Â overjoyed Â to Â have Â been Â asked Â to Â be Â a Â part Â of Â the Â Radio Â One Â announcer Â family,â&#x20AC;? Â says Â Cage. Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Â have Â been Â tied Â to Â Gospel Â radio Â &/1 8%!12 !2 !. !13)23 2 /$ %.,!1'%2 -8 3%11)3/18 ,//+ &/16!1$ 3/ serving Â with Â humility, Â integrity Â and Â excellence. Â Favor Â ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Â fair, Â but Â itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â a Â lot Â of Â fun.â&#x20AC;? 2 /.% /& 3/$!8<2 -/23 0/04,!1 01!)2% !.$ 6/12()0 ,%!$%12 (% )2 0/41).' ()2 6)2$/- &1/- /5%1 8%!12 /& -).)2318 ).3/ ! "//+ /. praise Â and Â worship Â by Â adding Â the Â title Â of Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;authorâ&#x20AC;? Â to Â his Â already Â jammed-Â packed Â resume. Â Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â no Â doubt Â that Â Byron Â Cage Â will Â continue Â to Â be Â part Â of Â the Â new Â wave Â of Â praise Â of Â worship Â in Â todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â churches. www.gracenglorymagazine.orgâ&#x20AC;&#x192; www.gracenglorymagazine.org Â 43 21

body basics

1. Tone Up on the Treadmill “Save time at the gym with this 10-minute cardio/sculpt session: Hop on a treadmill holding a three- to five-pound dumbbell in each hand, and set the speed to a brisk walk. Do a one-minute set each of shoulder presses, biceps curls, triceps extensions, side laterals, front laterals and standing triceps kickbacks one after another as you walk. It’s an amazing upper-body challenge that also gets your heart pumping. Do this series two or three times each week. As you improve, work up to doing four-minute sets.” – Michael George, trainer and owner of Integrated Motivational Fitness in Los Angeles 2. Power Up Your Runs “Adding wall sits to the end of every run will strengthen your quads, hamstrings and glutes, improving your speed and endurance. Lean against a wall with your feet shoulder-width apart, then squat until your knees are bent at 45 degrees. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds; work up to doing 10 sets. Add a challenge by including heel raises: Lift your left heel, then the right, then lift both together twice.” – Mindy Solkin, owner and head coach of the Running Center, New York City

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3. Chart Your Progress “Stay motivated using a fitness report card. Jot down these subjects: Cardio, Muscle Conditioning, Flexibility and Attitude. Set goals and grade yourself A through F at least four times a year. When you see how much you improve, you’ll want to stay in great shape.” – Ken Alan, Los Angeles--based personal trainer 4. Try This All-in-One Toner “A side-step squat with wood chop works your arms, torso, abs, back, legs, inner thighs and butt. Stand with your feet shoulderwidth apart holding a three- to four-pound medicine ball in your hands. Bend your arms up so that the ball is at eye level over your right shoulder. As you bring the ball toward your left knee, step out with your left leg and bend it no further than 90 degrees, keeping your right leg straight. Return to the starting position. Do 10 to 15 reps and repeat on the other leg.” – David Kirsch, trainer and author of The Ultimate New York Body Plan (McGraw-Hill, 2004)

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word of encouragement

word of encouragement word of encouragement

For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. [Jeremiah 29:11 – The Message Bible] I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out - plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. [Jeremiah 29:11 – The Message Bible] Donna Williams-Ross

In Trust Ministries dwilliamsross@aol.com

“Happy New Year to you and yours”. Welcome in 2013. You are here on planet earth by divine assignment and appointment. Many hoped to enter into 2013 to witness the marvelous things God has planned for His people, but did not survive. It is not a mistake that while others died, God predestined for you to be here to see His glory manifested more rapidly in the earth. Some of you survived harsh realities, sickness, foreclosures, depression, being pushed to the back, tornadoes, wild fires, etc., but God kept you because of the plans that He has for you. You may not see the plans evident right now that God has ordained for you, but if you can hold fast to His promises, if you can begin to work His principles and not yours, you will begin to see the manifestation of what God has predestined for you before the foundation of the world. God plans for you have not changed. It may not happen when you have purposed for it to happen, but know for a fact that God has not changed His mind about the promises that He has placed in His word. Neither has He changed His mind about the promises that He has spoken to you individually in your intimate time alone with Him. The man at the Gate Beautiful experienced the plan that God had for him. It didn’t happen at his birth – for he was born crippled, but that day when God destined for it to be – no one could have stopped it. “One day at three o’clock in the afternoon, Peter and John were on their way into the Temple for prayer meeting. At the same time there was a man crippled from birth being carried up. Every day he was set down at the Temple gate, the one named Beautiful, to beg from those going into the Temple. When he saw Peter and John about to enter the Temple, he asked for a handout. Peter, with John at his side, looked him straight in the eye and said, “Look here.” He looked up, expecting to get something from them. Peter said, “I don’t have a nickel to my name, but what I do have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!” He grabbed him by the right hand and pulled him up. In an instant his feet and ankles became firm. He jumped to his feet and walked. The man went 46 January January2013 2013| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 46

into the Temple with them, walking back and forth, dancing and praising God. Everybody there saw him walking around and praising God. They recognized him as the one who sat begging at the Temple’s Gate Beautiful and rubbed their eyes, astonished, scarcely believing what they were seeing. The man threw his arms around Peter and John, ecstatic. All the people ran up to where they were at Solomon’s Porch to see it for themselves.” (Acts 3:1-11 – The Message Bible) Here was the man at the Gate Beautiful, crippled from birth begging and expecting alms of everyone that came to the temple. The beggar was not asking to be healed, he was asking for alms, but got much, much more than he was asking for. With God, you will always get more than you ask or expect of Him. His plan was a monetary hand out, but God’s plan was healing – life and life more abundantly. It is the same with you, when you least expect it, when you may be asking for less than God’s best, God will show up in 2013 and allow the plans that He has for you to be manifested. It did not matter whether or not others believe that God will come through for you – as you stay focused on the plans and promises of God and not be moved by what it looks like, God’s plans will come to pass in your life. It may come at a time least expected, but know for a fact that God’s plans for you in 2013 will come to pass because the vision God has given to you is yet for an appointed time and then it will speak and shall not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it for God cannot lie and neither can the promises He made to you. I encourage you to trust in God’s words, knowing that the plans He has for you will begin to manifest. I encourage you to understand that it is your belief in God’s words that will bring His plans to past in your life. Prayer: Father, in the Name of Jesus, I thank You for giving me another year to see the plans and promises that you have for me to come to past. I look forward to them with much anticipation, amen. www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 45 45

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48 January 2013 | Grace&Glory