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March 2019
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contents on the cover: National Women’s History Month www.nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org
Cover Story March is National Women’s History Month and this year’s theme is Visionary Women: Champions of Peace & Nonviolence. In recognition of Women’s History Month, we are shining a light on all of our women contributors and we invited two guest contributors this month to help us celebrate Women’s History Month. We welcome Rhoda Turner, Co-Pastor of Christian Faith Fellowship Church Arizona and Melva Henderson/Melva Henderson Ministries. Check out their articles as well, we hope they will inspire and encourage you.
Healthy Soul 16-17 WOMEN TO WATCH
22 KEEP THE FIRE BURNING
Bishop Shirley & Pastor Timothy Stanfill
Shadows
Letting Go- Cleansing & Renewal
Melva Henderson
24 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Transitional Grace
Rhoda Turner
20 MONTHLY MANNA
Minister Carenda D. McCray
Get Out of Bed
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Tracey George
See Yourself in 3D: Divine, a Daughter, with Destiny
26 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Tiffany Bethea
Happy Women’s History Month
Healthy Mind 18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Wake Up Call
In Every Issue Contributors............................................ 6
Healthy Body
Scripture Page........................................ 7 From the Editor....................................... 8
28 HEALTH MATTERS
30 BODY BASICS
Dr. Denyce Daniels
Heart Disease- A Big Issue for African-American Women
Charles & Ursula Harris
The Size of a Sista: Who Said Skinny is Healthy?
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Meet the Team JACKIE EPPS – Jackie is the editor and owner of the Grace & Glory Magazine, created in 2007, as a spin-off of the Grace & Glory television program. Her career in communications spans almost 40 years; working in radio broadcasting for 11 years and shifting to television broadcasting in 1989. She is also the producer of the Grace & Glory television program. She currently works for the ABC affiliate in Baltimore and her expertise is in advertising sales, program sales, media planning and television production. 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 Tiffany Bethea Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Charles & Ursula Harris Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Grace & Glory Magazine is published monthly by JE Media, LLC,a Baltimore based, independent publisher. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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DR. CARLA DEBNAM
Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.
CHARLES HARRIS
Charles Harris is the owner of Chizel It Transformation Fitness. Charles is a highly effective fitness expert with a passion for health and wellness. He is a certified fitness trainer with the America Fitness Association of America with over 20 years of experience, and a certified Yoga Teacher at YogaWorks in Pikesville, Maryland. He is the author of I’m Too Cute to Sweat, What’s Your Excuse For Not Working Out?, and It Takes 21 Days To Get Fit. He currently teaches his mega cardio workout class throughout the state of Maryland.
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.
TIFFANY BETHEA
TRACEY NICOLE GEORGE
Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church.
BISHOP SHIRLEY AND PASTOR TIM STANFILL Bishop and Pastor Stanfill are the co-creators of Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral. They are humble servants who live by God's word in everything they do in life, love, travel and business. When they are not spending time with family they run missionary programs in Africa; share their ministry across the globe; and manage 3 businesses. They have learned how to keep their fire burning and keep God first, no matter what tests life brings them.
MIN. CARENDA MCCRAY Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40-day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration.
Tiffany Bethea is a bestselling author, speaker, minister, coach, podcaster and mompreneur. She is called to help believers become the bold, fearless CEOs of their lives as called to in Genesis 1:28. Through her Kingdomboss brand she also helps authors, speakers and entrepreneurs to become profitable, Christ-centered CEOs. She is an associate minister and worship arts director at Set the Captives Free Outreach Center under the direction of her parents Pastor Linwood & Dr. Karen Bethea.
scripture page
Proverbs 31:29-31 (NIV)
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“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.”
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Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
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Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Celebrating National Women’s History Month 2019 Visionary Women:
Champions of Peace & Nonviolence
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Editor
From the
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
I believe my assignment this month is to remind you that, “You Matter”! Sometimes life gets in the way and causes us to lose sight of what really matters and we need to remind ourselves just how much we matter to God…. and sometimes circumstances and difficulties can make it hard to hold on to the fact that we do matter to God….that is when we need to feed our faith and hold on to our hope so we can be empowered to carry out God’s purpose for our life. A few months ago Dr. Cecelia Bryant came to the television station where I work to be a guest for the Grace & Glory program, and when we were done taping the show, Dr. Bryant was led to pray for a few other guests there that day, so I joined the prayer circle and while she was praying she stopped and she
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You Matter
looked me in my eyes and said, “You Matter”; well it took me by surprise and really hit my spirit that day, I kept saying it to myself and reminding myself of those two words she spoke to me, just two words “You Matter”. I believe that those two words mean a few things….one we all have a purpose, two we all fit into God’s plan, and three God is always working His plan. I believe my story lines up with what God wanted me to share with you, that we matter to God, that there is a purpose and plan for our lives, and God is always working His plan. I have been blessed to work in an industry that many people have degrees for and most of them would love to just get their foot in the door and I have been doing it for over 35 years, with no degree, and God put my
from the editor foot in the door. He put me in a place where on the air for 17 years and ministers the word I never thought I would be, nor did I seek out of God to thousands of people every Sunday to be…..one of my favorite scriptures comes morning and He has allowed me to share His to mind Jeremiah 29:11, “ For I know the word through this magazine for 12 years. plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, No matter where you are at this point in your “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, life, no matter how young or how old, there plans to give you hope and a future.” God was has always been a purpose and plan for your working His purpose and plan for my life, the life that goes hand in hand with God’s will for His people. I think it is very important that you moment I was introduced to the broadcasting and communications industry. I started in this know YOU MATTER to God even if you must industry as a receptionist at a radio station, for remind yourself every day and say, “I matter to me at the time it was just a job, God and I fit into His plan.” little did I know that God was There is one provision and laying down the foundation for a that is you have to be willing career I knew nothing about For I know the plans to let God use you. God can use anyone, it doesn’t matter if When I look back over these I have for you,” declares the you have multiple degrees or 35 years, I realize that it is not LORD, “plans to prosper you no degrees, it doesn’t matter man who qualifies you it is God, if you are single, married, He will equip and put in you just and not to harm you, plans divorced, a single parent, a what you need to do what He to give you hope and grandmother, a student, and has called you to do, and you the list goes on and on….what will be blown away at what God a future.” does matter is your willingness can do, He can do exceeding to serve Him so that He gets abundantly, above all that you – Jeremiah 29:11 the glory out of your life. can ask or think (that’s another God’s purpose and plan one of my favorite scriptures, is always for Him to get the Glory and He is Ephesians 3:20). Of course, it has not been easy, I have had my always working His plan because you matter share of challenges, disappointments, heartache, in His plan. I suggest you take a look at the resume’ of your life, and see how God has been and setbacks, and at times I have even wanted working His plan in your life. I think you will to quit, but I am in awe of what God has done see that your resume’ tells a story, stories of to show me that I matter to Him, His plan and victories and triumphs, stories of God making His purpose for His people. This plan was a way out of no way, stories of healing and never about me, I am just a vessel which He is using to accomplish His will, which makes it so deliverance, stories of salvation and God’s love for you. Your story is proof that you do matter awesome about what I do. I get to do ministry while I am at work doing my regular job I was to God and He has a plan for your life and He is hired to do. God ordered my steps to be the always working His plan. producer of a Gospel program that has been Say it with me, “I matter to God!”
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NATIONAL KIDNEY MONTH M
arch marks National Kidney Month, which promotes awareness of kidneys and kidney disease. For some it may just be another month, but for Ray Harris, this is the fourth March he has been waiting for a kidney transplant. Harris suffers from focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, a type of inherited kidney disease. He was diagnosed 20 years ago during a routine visit with his primary physician. From the physical side effects of medication to the mental impact of having kidney disease, Harris became anti-social in the early stages of his diagnosis. “I couldn’t participate in all the activities I used to,” he said. “I had less energy, physical pain, and depression. Every day was a challenge.” After undergoing two kidney transplants since his diagnosis, he has realized that his experience could be an inspiration to others. He now advocates for kidney disease awareness and supports those who are personally impacted. He created the mantra, P.U.S.H: Perseverance, Understanding, Support, and Help. He uses it to motivate himself and others to talk about kidney disease. “If we get more people talking about it, then less people will be negatively impacted,” he said. While he spreads awareness about the disease that plagues him, Ray Harris continues to need dialysis while he waits for a third kidney transplant. “Being on and off dialysis has been a rollercoaster. It’s difficult, but I learned to look at the positive things,” he said. He continues to have hope in finding a donor, living or deceased. Harris is one of 2,706 people currently waiting for a kidney transplant in the state of Maryland. “The importance of being an organ, eye, and tissue donor is a blessing. In Galatians 6:10, it says ‘Therefore as we have opportunity, let us do good to all. Especially to those who are of the household of faith.’ It’s the ultimate gift,” Ray said.
Want to save the lives of people like Ray? Learn more and register to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor at www.donatelifemaryland.org.
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Pastors & Church Leadership Are your members in need of help?
Hosea 4:6 NKJV – My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Our goal is to educate older adults, their families & caregivers on resources like: • Affordable housing • Free legal assistance, including • Nutritious meals deed transfers • Alzheimer's and dementia support • Medicare and insurance savings • Affordable, accessible hearing care • Prescription drug costs • Home modification assistance • Caregiver assistance and education We are extending this FREE outreach opportunity to 100 Houses of Worship through Fall 2019. There is no cost to the church or attendees. We provide refreshments and a free gift to each attendee.
CALL today to schedule your event. 667-600-2100 or afa@cc-md.org
Inspired by the Gospel mandates to love, serve and teach, Catholic Charities provides care and services to improve the lives of Marylanders in need.
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14 March 2019 | Grace&Glory
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women to watch
Shadows
“For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.” When I think of the word “shadow" I think of a hiding place; a place where you can go when you don’t want to be seen or recognized. I imagine the person working behind the scenes on a production set not wanting to be in the spotlight or the shy student sitting in the back of the class trying to avoid being called upon by the teacher.
to say, this part of the journey is uncharted, unfamiliar territory for me. Coming out of the shadows and stepping into the light presented a new view to my surroundings. My eyes have had to adjust to the light; my perspective has had to change. I knew that eventually I would have to walk in my calling, even if I didn’t want to.
For the majority of my time on this earth, I have found myself living life in the shadows. For me, the shadow represented a place of protection. I was raised by two loving, God fearing parents who would move heaven and earth on my behalf. As the child of a Pastor it was inevitable that the microphone or spotlight would be forced upon me. It was assumed that because my parents were who they were that I was supposed to just be an outgoing, attentionembracing child, but that wasn’t my truth. I was very shy, timid, quiet and soft spoken.
What the light does is it exposes the places that we feel the most insecure and the most vulnerable, affirming our need to lean completely on the Lord to hold our hand as we take each step forward. With Him guiding me, I am learning to become more at home in the light and less comfortable hiding in the shadows that embraced me for so long. I’m grateful for my experiences in the shadows. Isaiah 45:3 (NIV) says, “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.” Looking back I can see the treasures that I picked up along the way that made me the woman I am today. The shadow experience made me appreciate, all the more, the way the Lord pursued me in order to get me to the place where I can stand in and bask in the warmth of His light shining on me. The shadow didn’t damper what God wanted to do in my life, it refined me. It pushed me closer to my Savior; closer to the Friend that was committed to spending time with me behind the scenes.
As I grew up, I ran from any source of spotlight. I just didn’t want the attention. As others repeatedly tried to force the spotlight on me, I turned more and more inward, feeling alone and reclusive. I forced myself back into my safe place in the background and found the welcoming peace that I had become so familiar with as a child. When I got married and started a family I desired strongly to protect my children from the uncomfortable pressures that I felt growing up when the spotlight was pointed in my direction. I shielded them from the microphone, declined opportunities for them to be seen as anything more than the fun loving children they were. What I didn’t realize at the time was that in my attempts to shield them, what I was really doing was protecting myself from having to leave my comfort zone. I had become accustomed to being “Jason’s wife” and the “girls’ mom”. My place of security, peace, and comfort was beautifully hidden in the shadow of my title. Slowly, with the help from friends and family I came to the understanding that I didn’t have to stay in the shadows any longer; my time had come to step out of the shadow not with my head low and timid in posture, but in full confidence in who God has called me to be and in clarity of speech to say what He has given me to say. Needless 16 16 March March2019 2019| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
Rhoda Turner Bio
Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility, and it is very evident that God’s hand is upon her life. 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 the mother of four beautiful girls: Gabrielle, Kennedy, Alivia and Abigail. Her love for humanity has gone beyond the four walls of her home and she is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. She is also a great compliment Pastor Rhoda Turner to her husband Jason and today Christian Faith Fellowship Church they serve as senior pastors of Chandler, AZ Christian Faith Fellowship Church www.cffaz.org in Chandler, AZ.
women to watch
For the last two and a half to three years I have had this pronounced sense that something in my life was shifting. Initially, thoughts of worry and fear crept in leaving me to wonder, “Am I or someone I love going to die or be faced with an illness? Lord, what exactly does this mean?” Although there have been earth to heaven transitions in my family, there remained this undeniable knowing that things were about to change; a knowing that I was moving from one place of grace to another, and I needed to prepare myself for it. This is what’s known as transition. Transition is something every person in life experiences, in a relationship, ministry, career, or family, transition is inevitable. Sometimes it comes without warning or permission. Transition can be defined as the passage from one place, one stage of development, a time or season, to another. Although God never changes, and Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), you and I change. Where there is no change, there is also no growth or advancement in the will of God for our lives. Transition is a requirement. God the Father ensures that with each transition in life comes the necessary grace to move intentionally and successfully. Grace is God’s enabling ability. In times of transition, it stabilizes you where you are as you acknowledge and embrace the divine pull where God is calling you to be. It provides you with the wisdom and strategies to maneuver the unfamiliar bends in the road of your journey. It’s called transitional grace. Transitional grace requires a heart willing to cooperate with God, in timing and obedience. Without it, you can find yourself stepping in the right place at the wrong time or the wrong place at the right time. God calls each of us to a specific place for a specific time, but the day comes when something in your heart knows the season of being there is over. Very often you can’t see where you will go, but something in you knows that change is on the horizon. In those times it’s crucial that you do all you can to pull away and find yourself in deeper times of prayer and meditation, seeking the counsel of the Lord. The alternative is to find yourself becoming discontented and at times even critical of where you are currently. I’ve counseled countless individuals who at one time loved where they were or what they were doing, but when their time of transition came, what once blessed them now irritated them. What they could once ignore, they now exposed. Instead of living in the grace of transition, they criticized their employer, pastor or spouse not realizing that they were changing, not anyone else. Many years ago I worked for a local telephone company, and I loved my job. But, after many years, something in my heart knew that I wouldn’t be there much longer. I started to hate going into the office, and I no longer found satisfaction in the work. However, I maintained an excellent work and attendance record because although I knew I was leaving, I had no direction from the Lord. It
was just an inward knowing. Initially, I didn’t say a word to my boss. But, for the next few years every day I walked into the building I said to myself, “The day is coming when I’ll no longer be here, I don’t know where I’m going, but I know God has something great in store for me.” Deep inside I knew how I transitioned from that place would significantly impact how I entered the next, and I wanted to leave in good standing. I wanted to transition well. So, I continued going to work, giving my absolute best, knowing my days were numbered there. Finally, a door of opportunity opened for me to work in ministry full time. I accepted the opportunity, gave my resignation one month in advance, and left the company. That’s the power of living in the transitional grace of God, learning to follow the leading of His Holy Spirit. He is our guide and the one who executes God’s will. He knows how and when things are to be done, so walk closely with Him. Before you know it, you’ll be standing where you were called to be, looking back at where you use to be. Melva Henderson Bio
Melva L. Henderson, a John Maxwell certified team member and Top 100 Transformational Leadership Award Nominee, is all about impacting and changing lives. She is President and Founder of Melva Henderson Ministries, World Bible Training Institute, World Ministerial Alumni Association and Co-Pastor of World Outreach & Bible Training Center, Inc. Melva travels the globe teaching, training leaders, and developing the life and faith of believers worldwide. Melva is the author of The Faith Life Series as well as the daily devotionals, Fresh Baked Manna Volumes I and II. She is also a columnist for Just Between Us, an international women's magazine. Melva is the Wisconsin State Director for The Daughters for Zion, a prayer network under Christians United for Israel (CUFI). She is the host of Discipling the Nations radio and television broadcast as well as former host of Praise The Lord and Joy in Our Town, on the Trinity Broadcast Network (TBN). In 2007, Melva established The Little Feet of Mexico and The Milwaukee Give, both humanitarian efforts aimed at providing food, shoes, and clothing to those living in poverty. To help meet the financial responsibility of these efforts, in 2014, The Melva Henderson Foundation was created. Through these mediums, Melva Henderson Ministries has been afforded the opportunity to bring aide and assistance to thousands... Melva is a graduate of Rhema Bible Training College and holds an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity degree for her years of humanitarian efforts and You Tube Melva Henderson, leadership training. She and husband, Ervin Facebook Melva Henderson L. Henderson, are parents of 5 (including Ministries in-laws) and grandparents of 4. Twitter @Melva_Henderson
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to your good health
We live in a fast paced and ever changing world. We spend a lot of time learning new ways to communicate and create opportunities for fostering relationships whether over the Internet or face to face. No matter where we live or what kind of work we do, there is always a new and improved way to meet our goals and improve our methods of presenting our gifts, talents and skills to our target audience. Using our best efforts to network and make our mark in the world has become a twenty-four seven business. Even churches have changed how they deliver the Word by changing the worship services to fit the needs of the congregation and potential churchgoers. Keeping up with the times has become a full time job. This has left many people stressed and burned out because of the increased expectations and the lack of down time to rest and be restored. Flexible work environments have added convenience but that also comes with the unspoken expectation of always being accessible to the job. All of this change in the delivery of services, access to the workplace, and connections to people anytime and anywhere has become problematic. We are in a season where we must heed the signs and symptoms of our lives on overload. We are overwhelmed taking care of our parents, our children and our grandchildren simultaneously. Our money does not stretch as far as it used to so this adds to an already stressful lifestyle. We must face what’s happening and heed the wake up call to address what could be a needed turning point in how we handle the changes and challenges of life. Sometimes the wake up call is a 18 March 2019 | Grace&Glory
health crisis, the unexpected loss of a loved one, a job loss or relationship change. These can send us into an emotional tailspin, which can lead us to make rash decisions. A wake up call an also be the push we need to improve our health, update our resume’ or work on our people skills. In Romans 13 we are encouraged to heed the signs of the times. “Do this because we live in an important time. It is now time for you to wake up from your sleep, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The “night” is almost finished, and the “day” is almost here. So we should stop doing things that belong to darkness and take up the weapons used for fighting in the light.” (Romans 13:11-12) This wakeup call is not just in the physical but is also a spiritual wakeup call. We have to not only pay attention to what is happening in the culture but also in our spiritual lives. God uses circumstances and situations to help us navigate the ups and downs of life. Let’s take advantage of the wakeup calls when we receive them so we can maximize our efforts to be all that God created us to be. Remember that God will use all of the changes and transitions to bring out the good work He has prepared for us. When your wakeup call comes, answer it in faith knowing that Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, you can do all things through Renaissance Christian Counseling Center Christ.
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Lady C Speaks
As “old man winter” embraces, it is very convenient to stay in and wrap ourselves under a cozy blanket. This is the time when comfort food is a priority and the race to face the cold air lacks a sense of urgency. This is the time where hot chocolate with marshmallows is added to our grocery list and we search to find the other glove that has seemed to disappear from our coat pocket. When it’s cold we have to work hard to keep our Vitamin D up and our body replenished with the nutrients it needs. Sometimes we over indulge because it’s easy to grab that oversized sweater, but don’t forget seasons do change. It is important that no matter what season it is literally and spiritually, STAY FOCUSED! If the weather is bad and you can’t make it to church it doesn’t mean you can’t have worship in your home or intimate time with the Lord. Don’t get lazy in this season. Stay consistent, diligent and steadfast! I believe the Lord would have me to say to you, “Get out of bed!” How long are you going to hit the snooze button? How long are you going to sleep and allow your mind to grow idle? Don’t allow this winter season to throw you off. Don’t allow this winter season to cause you to start unhealthy habits. There is work for you to do. What is your spirit missing right now in this moment of your life? Has it grown cold? May the Lord cause His Holy Spirit to fall FRESH on you. May the Lord our God release within you a word this season that will cause uncommon faith, miracles and breakthroughs to overtake your life. Right now reading this message something should be leaping on the inside of you. Right now faith should be rising up inside of you like never before. Right now your tongue should be speaking life over every situation. Stand bold in this season. Put on extra layers of prayer, fasting, intercession, worship and praise. I believe our winter season is our training season. Let the Lord prepare you, shape you and mold you. Did you hear that? Your alarm is going off! Get out of bed and prepare now- for your season of harvest awaits! 20 March March2019 2019||Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 20
(Lady C) Min. Carenda D. McCray (Lady C) A Message of Hope...A Ministry of Deliverance Black Essence Business Award (2011) 888-473-2221 ladyc@farenterprises.biz http://www.farenterprises.biz http://www.amazon.com/author/ladyc http://www.ladycspeaks.BlogSpot.com http://www.blackwritersguild.org/id29.html
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keep the fire burning
Letting Go, Cleansing and Renewals by Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill
Greetings Grace and Glory Family! As spring is upon us it is often a time that we associate with letting go, cleansing and renewals. Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. In our always on the go society - food and technology are two of the most common things that people tend to indulge in. The prophet Daniel fasted for 21 days eating only fruits and vegetables and drinking water. And Jesus fasted for 40 days. While water and dietary fasting are popular for weight-loss reasons, if you are considering doing this, please check with your doctor to make sure it’s medically safe for you. There are many types of fasting and many things you can refrain from. Pastor Tim and I do a dietary fast at least one time per quarter to keep ourselves humble and in service for the Lord. Fasting takes will power and self-discipline because it puts you in a position where you have to give up something that you might currently take for granted. It is incredibly difficult to do it cold-turkey on your own. So doing this activity with your partner is ideal because it helps you be accountable for each other; feel each other’s struggles; and strengthen your relationship through your shared healing & growth. The first things you want to do is decide as a couple what is the thing you want to refrain from doing, WHY it is important to your relationship and for what time period you will do this for. 22 March 2019 | Grace&Glory
Pastor Tim and I do a week long fast where we do not eat our first meal until 6 pm in the evening. We have discovered many benefits beyond weight loss. It has helped us to save money and increase our tithings. It builds self-discipline and compassion. It gives us time to choose and prepare our meals together. And above all it provides us with the spiritual detoxification and healing that accompanies the process. Does food seem like too much for you to give up as a couple? Then consider doing something like giving up technology or TV during your evenings for 7 days. During this newly found free time, join together in prayer or share stories from the Bible. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter; or share healing and personal growth stories from your life with your significant other. Through it all, be kind, compassionate and accountable for each other and whenever you struggle or are faced with temptation, pray together and reflect on your WHY. Remember that life is short. We are called to have nothing missing and nothing lacking in our lives, so we can grow ourselves as individuals and those connected to us. This spring Pastor Tim and I encourage you to make the time to gather your will power; plant new habits; then consistently water and cultivate what you want to bloom and flourish in your relationship with each other and the Lord.
Watch The Tim and Shirley Show on Facebook, Tuesdays at 8 PM www.facebook.com/TimShirleyshow Please email your questions on Marriage & Relationships to Tim & Shirley at TimShirleyShow@gmail.com
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trinkets to triumph
March is Women’s History Month and what better way to honor yourself as a woman, or the women in your life, than to see yourself in a three-dimensional (3D) manner as divine, a daughter of the King, and destined to live your best life. Be willing to embrace a life with a solid relationship with your Savior, divinely developed as His daughter, and complete in Him ready to fulfill your destiny. As a divine daughter of destiny, it is ideal that you claim and walk in your inheritance. Never live beneath your privilege but choose to live a bold, vibrant life with your light shining for Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:16). When you do, you exhibit good works and God gets the glory. The time is now for you to claim your position in the Kingdom and walk, or continue to walk, boldly into your destiny. Numbers 27:1-7 introduces you to the daughters of Zelophehad. These daughters approached the entrance to the Tent of Meeting and stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders and the whole assembly, and said, "Our father died in the desert. He was not among Korah's followers, who banded together against the Lord, but he died for his own sin and left no sons. Why should our father's name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father's relatives." So, Moses brought their case before the Lord and the Lord said to him, "What Zelophehad's daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father's relatives and turn their father's inheritance over to them.” As a result of the daughters of Zelophehad knowing and being confident in who they were, they took a stand, approached Moses, the priests and leaders and claimed their inheritance. They were willing to request the portion of their father's inheritance that belonged to them and asked for their legacy to be unleashed and given to them. Like the daughters of Zelophehad, you are a divine daughter of destiny, you are a part of God's royal family, and have an inheritance that belongs to you because of your relationship with God and Jesus Christ. See yourself as divine. Be confident in the fact that you are part of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood and a holy nation (I Peter 2:9). Partake in the privileges of living a blessed life that lines up with your birthright as a child of God. See yourself as the King’s daughter and reap of all the promises of God as the seed of Abraham (Galatians 3:29). See yourself with a destiny. God said that He knows the plans that He has for you and those plans are for you to prosper and not harm you, and He wants to give you a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Line your vision up with God’s will and purpose for your life and witness your life level up to royal standards. Never mind what the naysayers will do or say to try to stop you from being a divine daughter of destiny. Your makeup was marked by 3D when the three dimensions of our Deity of the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost created mankind in their image (Genesis 1:26-27). Take your rightful place and walk in the 3D image and likeness of God. You are an heir and joint-heir with Jesus Christ (Romans 8:17). He came that you might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). That abundant life is yours as a divine daughter of destiny. Like the daughters of Zelophehad, be bold and ask for the blessings that belong to you. Eliminate any fear, embrace your legacy, and walk in your anointing. Have the mindset like Queen Esther and say, “If I perish, I perish,” but let nothing or no one interrupt your flow of living as a divine daughter of destiny (Esther 4:16). Never fear going to your King and asking for what’s rightfully yours as a daughter of the most high God. Like Queen Esther, your King is giving you access to His royal court for you to come and claim your royal benefits. It is His promise to daily load you with benefits (Psalm 68:19). As a divine daughter of Tracey Nicole George destiny, remember that you are a precious diamond that is unbreakable and brilliant. Shine! www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com 24 24 March March 2019 2019 || Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
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woman’s perspective
T
his month has been set aside to highlight the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. I salute all of you amazing women this month and every month. Womanhood is something to be celebrated and cherished. We are life-givers. There is power in our femininity. We are beautiful inside and out. Last month we started a series on sisterhood. I put out a poll to see what topics you ladies would be interested in hearing about and sisterhood came up several times. It is my desire through this series to examine sisterhood from various angles and to strengthen your existing sister relationships and encourage you to create and nurture new healthy sister relationships. Now whenever I discuss sisterhood, I understand that this topic can be sensitive because let’s face it as women, most if not all of us have been hurt by another women we thought was our friend. But we cannot allow the hurt we have experienced and the enemy to cause us to devalue the importance of those relationships in our lives. “Friendship is essential to the soul.” In order for us to experience the abundance that God has intended for our lives, we must have an abundance of love and relationships. We must realize that God desires to bless us; however, he uses people to do so. Let’s examine the different types of sister connections we will experience, how we draw them, and how to keep them healthy. The three categories of connections we encounter in our lives are REASON, SEASON, and LIFERS. There are women that we are only meant to connect with for a REASON. These are short-term relationships that are not intended for longevity. The REASON that God has allowed our paths to cross could vary and include anything from work on a project together at school or church, exchange information about motherhood or a business, share information that is an answer to a question we have, and there are many other options that fit into this category. Even though these relationships are often the shortest, we cannot underestimate their importance. These connections can be short-lived but powerful. I find it amazing that God has allowed my path to cross with some phenomenal 26 26 March March2019 2019||Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
women who while in their presence at a workshop, or running into them at a store, I learned something that I was able to carry with me for years. The first category of individuals is usually pretty simple to identify, it’s the next two categories that often get confused and cause us the most grief. There are women we are meant to connect with for only a SEASON. These relationships can be difficult because often times we may not know the duration of the season that we are intended to walk together. We miss out when we end the season too soon and we take on extra weight when we extend the season beyond what God designed. The key to these relationships is identifying when the SEASON is shifting. Many times when the season shifts we do not have to necessarily cut the person off completely, we may be able to just add some healthy space and shift the dynamics. Then there are the people I call LIFERS. I know who my “LIFERS” are and I tell them all the time that they are stuck with me. Psychologists say that any friendship that lasts at least 7 years will last a lifetime. All of our LIFERS come through the SEASON category first but at some point we shift and recognize that our friendship is intended for longevity. The key to keeping these relationships healthy is sensitivity to the shifts and seasons it will endure. My friendships intended for longevity have experienced everything from new marriages, new babies, divorce, death of a loved one, relocation and more. None of those have to strain or end the friendship if both people are truly sensitive to small adjustments that need to be made and especially if the lines of communication are open. When there is trust and intimacy present it is easy to maintain healthy friendships into longevity. Sister friendships can literally change our lives. The amazing women that God allows our paths to cross with will help us elevate, celebrate with us, wipe our tears, love our children, share recipes, go shopping with us and so much more. In order to enjoy these relationships we must use discernment and listen for God’s wisdom so that we proceed with caution. Honor, cherish and celebrate the sister friendships you have in your life. And if you desire to have more I stand Tiffany Bethea in agreement with you She-EO Life Mentor that God will honor that www.Tiffanybethea.com request.
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health matters
H
eart disease is a known culprit that affects males of all ethnic backgrounds over 40 years of age. But did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death in African-American women and is the leading cause for all women in the U.S? Heart disease and its many components, such as hypertension, stroke, angina (chest pains) and peripheral vascular diseases such as poor circulation in the arms and legs are destructive to more Black women than in women of other races, and begin its effects at a younger age. Studies show that nearly 49% of African American women over age 20 have some type of heart disease. The cold facts reveal that nearly 1 in every 2 Black women in the U.S. has heart
disease. But, only 20% of African-American women think they personally are at risk for heart disease. There are several reasons why heart disease tends to be such a big issue for African Americans generally, and Black women specifically. For example, associated disorders such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease. Unfortunately, these are all issues that tend to be more common in African-Americans as well. As Black women, we love and embrace our curves, but our curves can take us down a road of destruction! Genetics can play a role in a person’s risk level, too. We can relate that many of our family members have died from some form of heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, many African Americans may carry a gene that can make us more sensitive to salt, increasing our risk of hypertension. Traditional diets carried down through generations may also be a culprit. Frying meats and vegetables in grease, indulging in rich creamy mac and cheese and gravies or snacking on deep-fried French fries a few times a week can significantly increase your cholesterol levels. Increased cholesterol levels will clog your arteries and will lead to poor blood flow to vital organs including your heart and kidneys. What You Can Do To Lower Your Risk Of Heart Disease We call on Jehovah-Rapha: The God Who Heals, El Roi the God who sees all, to reveal our risk. We ask for wisdom, it’s the principle thing. A good place to start is by looking in the mirror. You and your everyday habits are the key to preventing heart disease. Take steps to heart-healthy habits, such as: • Making sure your diet includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. • Aiming for a diet low in sodium, sugar, saturated and Trans fats, and cholesterol. Remember, if it turns white after you cook it, it’s too greasy and not good for you. • Staying active. Aim for engaging in 150 minutes of activity every week (walking, bike riding, etc.) • Get a fit bit apps on your phone. • Park farther away from the mall door in the parking lot. • Get up from your desk and walk at lunchtime. • Take the stairs instead of the elevator. • Don’t ignore symptoms such as shortness of breath when walking or climbing stairs, the feeling of heaviness in your chest or limbs, or frequent headaches. Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels • Not smoking or using other tobacco products. Assistant Professor Your arteries will breathe a sigh of relief if you College of Health Professions incorporate these measures. Get heart healthy Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu and live your best life. healthytips 025@gmail.com
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body basics
The Size of a Sista! Who Said Skinny is Healthy! Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2 NIV Women come in all shapes, sizes and nationalities. Depending on your genetic make up, your body shape will vary in many ways. Although there are some characteristics that will not change and no matter your family history, you are not a prisoner to your genetics. For example, in some cases, African American and Hispanic women are genetically predisposed to having a shapelier figure while other ethnic groups tend to have a naturally leaner physique, and both are okay! The entertainment arena is flooded with Hollywood celebrities who weigh no more than 100 pounds posing on the cover of all the hottest health and fitness magazines. Are they really healthy? No matter what your size or shape, your focus should always be on your health and wellness, and not the number on the scale. Be honest with yourself and consider whether you currently put more effort into developing your outer appearance than what you do for your internal health! The next question to ask yourself is, “What’s more important, my spirit or my body?” Although both are important, the spirit, without a doubt is the right answer. Let’s take a brief inventory. On an annual basis, how much do you spend on hair, nails, cosmetics and entertainment? Now, on the other hand, how much do you invest on things that will build your self-esteem and the temple that you have been blessed with? You have been blessed with a unique body that no other person will ever have and no man made machine can match. It is your responsibility to take care of the gift that God gave you. We must invest into living a long and healthy life. Stress, poor nutrition and lack of exercise are the leading causes of obesity and health issues. What you put into your body may be your biggest stronghold. In our culture, we were raised on fried foods that are high in cholesterol, and while those fatty foods taste and appear to be good, they will eventually catch up with you and cause excessive weight gain and lead to potential heart disease. You may have noticed your body shape changes as soon as you hit 40, but these are not overnight changes. Yes, your metabolism begins to slow down at 40, but often, it’s your past eating habits catching up with you. It is so easy for those size eights to turn into double digits in a blink of an eye, and you can no longer continue to blame that weight gain on child birth when your youngest child is now in his or her freshman year of college! Having a healthy and fabulous body is still obtainable at any age, with good eating habits and a simple exercise routine. The following game plan will help you get back on track if you implement them. Ladies, you can do this when you decide to make your well being a priority. You are no good to anyone when you are constantly tired and beat down. When you feel happy and energized, you can extend that energy to the people around you. When you start to take better care of your health, your true beauty will begin to manifest on the outside. So start now by applying these 10 steps, and watch how your life and health will change.
Steps to Improving Your Health Now! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Love yourself for who you are. Recognize some small changes you can make and then act on them. Look forward. Don’t allow past fitness disappointments to control your plan. Eat to fuel your body and not your emotions. Find activities that you enjoy doing. (Dancing, gardening, walking, etc.) Surround yourself with healthy and positive people. Remain positive and do not give in to negative thoughts. They will come. Find time to meditate and apply some regular self-care. (Massages, manicures, pedicures, bubble baths) 9. Don’t be a people pleaser. Please God first, and He will direct your path. 10. Dress to impress. When you look good, you feel good. This too will boost your self-esteem.
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CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS Fitness Experts Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com
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UNITY:
Are You Ready To Answer the Call? Greetings and Salutations! Pastor Washington Monroe Flowers Sr. Is now residing in Longwoods North Carolina near Mrytle Beach He is Back to his Birthplace where he wa born. Both he and his wife will spend the rest of their earthly days there! Still Carrying Firth The work of The Lord! This is the time that We must Pray! We are in the Seaspn of End Time Ministry. We must have Relationship with God the Father, Christ Jesus and The Holy Ghost! This is the Time For One To Be About Kingdom Business! The Time is Now To Turn Back To God! Put aside all things that Draw you from God Our Father and Press Toward the Mark! What Is the Mark? I Ask A Question Are YOU Pressing Towards The Mark? Beloved Trust And Believe God Is able To Carry You Thru! Don't Get Ready Be Ready! Peace and Blessings,
Evangelist LaRondi Nicole Flowers BROWN'S MEMORIAL BAPTIST CHURCH 3215 W. Belvedere Ave. • Baltimore, MD 21215 UMUSTBREAL@GMAIL.COM “A Small Family Environment Where We Say Yes To God!” PROGRESSIVE BAPTIST CONVENTION OF MARYLAND next meeting is March 21, 2019 HELD AT TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH 1601 Druid Hill Ave • Baltimore Md 21217 Time: 10am
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