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scripture page
Romans 8:28-39 (NIV) 28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called
according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son,that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined,he also called: those he called, he also justified;those he justified, he also glorified. 31
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us,who can be against us? 32 He who
did not spare his own Son,but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced
that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of
God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
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September 2019
™
contents on the cover:
Bishop Shawn L. Bell & Lady Faye Bell Greater Paradise Christian Center 2900 E. Oliver Street Baltimore, MD 21213 410-276-4193 www.greaterparadise.org
Cover Story pgs 8-11 - This past July in Nassau, Bahamas, Bishop Shawn L. Bell was appointed and elevated as a Bishop in the Global United Fellowship by Presiding Prelate Bishop Neil Ellis. There will be an Episcopal Affirmation Celebration this month to commemorate the elevation and appointment of Bishop Shawn L. Bell. We have an exclusive interview with Bishop Bell; he gives us a glimpse into this new level for him.
Healthy Soul 16 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Tracey George
Set Up For Success
20 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Tiffany Bethea
Release And Renew
22 KEEP THE FIRE BURNING
24 MONTHLY MANNA
Bishop Shirley & Pastor Timothy Stanfill
Minister Carenda Deonne
Setting Life Goals
The Proof Is In Your Faith
26 SHE SPEAKS
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Rhoda Turner
I Give Up All To Follow You
Healthy Mind 18 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Getting Back On Track
In Every Issue Scripture Page........................................ 2
Healthy Body
Contributors............................................ 6 From the Editor....................................... 7
28 BODY BASICS
30 HEALTH MATTERS
Charles & Ursula Harris
Dr. Denyce Daniels
I’m Too Cute To Sweat
More Talk on Immunization
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Meet the Contributors For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tiffany Bethea Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Charles & Ursula Harris Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill Rhoda Turner Melva Henderson GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
Grace & Glory Magazine By Mail! For subscriptions go to our website: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
For more information contact 443-813-6547 • 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. Follow us on facebook and twitter at: facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine twitter @gracenglorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
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JACKIE EPPS is co-founder and editor of Grace & Glory Magazine. Jackie's career in communications spans over 40 years in advertising sales, program sales, media planning and television production, working in radio for 11 years and shifting to television broadcasting in 1989. She also produces the Grace & Glory show, a faith-based television program that has been on the air for 18 years. 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 DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration.
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.
from the editor
X
What About the Children?
By this time most of the children have all gone back to school. The summer seems to be just a blur, time moves so swiftly now. I remember when summer seemed to last forever, and the school year would never end. But before you know it this generation of children will be adults. However, statistics say that many of our young people will not make it to twenty-one. Thus, the question, “What About the Children?” What about the children? An alarm needs to sound for our children. Now more than ever the Body of Christ should be focused on our children. The plight of our young people seems very grim. Our communities are plagued with young people dying in the streets daily, at the hands of other young people! The enemy is running havoc on our young people- teen promiscuity, teen pregnancies, teen suicide, teen gangs, teen dropouts, teen drug addiction, teen sex trafficking, and the list goes on. These problems may or may not be happening in your backyard, but what happens to one of us happens to all of us. We are all part of the ‘big picture’. As believers we can no longer look the other way when it comes to our young people. We cannot just throw up our hands
Jackie Epps
and give up on them. Instead we have to throw up our hands and fight for them. We have to learn the weapons of spiritual warfare and stand in the gap for our children. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12 This year as we pray for a successful school year for the children in our individual churches, don’t leave out the children who are outside of the walls of the church. Undergird those children with prayer as well. Pray for their safety, ask God to build a hedge of protection around them. Pray for their minds, ask God to give them a sound mind, a mind to love one another. Most of all pray for their salvation, ask God to snatch them from the hands of the enemy and place them on a solid rock to stay. What about the children? We were once children and if it wasn’t for the love of those around us and their prayers, where would we be today? Peace and Blessings!
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Q&A
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n t e r v i e w
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Bishop Shawn L. Bell
Greater Paradise Christian Center Baltimore, MD
G&G: Bishop Bell, welcome back to Grace & Glory Magazine! I am so excited for you and I can’t wait to share with our readers what is going on in your life. First and foremost congratulations are in order for you . . . just recently in July you were elevated and consecrated as Bishop and you are now Bishop Shawn Bell. My first question is what does it feel like to be you right now? Bishop Bell: I feel great right now. I am in a dual season of grace and I am adapting. In the words of the great song by Bishop Paul Morton, “Whatever you are doing in this season don’t do it without me”. G&G: Bishop Bell, with all the different seasons you have already experienced in your life and the different levels you have already reached, have you stopped to ask yourself the question, “How did I get here?” Bishop Bell: I think that it is always good to reflect on all your achievements, disappointments and where God has brought you from. Doing this has allowed me to remain humble and continue to focus on the work that God has created me to do. Most of all I am here from the shoulders that I continue to stand on from my past.
G&G: Bishop Bell, we would love to hear about your elevation as a Bishop in the Global United Fellowship. Please share with us how this all came about and the journey that led to this elevation. Bishop Bell: A little over three years ago God transitioned Greater Paradise and I under the great leadership of His Grace, Bishop Neil C. Ellis, and the Global United Fellowship. I didn’t rest long; Bishop Ellis put me to work right away overseeing sixty plus Pastors and their ministries in the mid-Atlantic area. I would do this for roughly two years until on December 28, 2018, I received my official letter as a candidate of the 2019 GUF Episcopal Consecration. I was immediately humbled and honored that God would choose me for such a sacred office, furthermore that Bishop Ellis would think that highly of me to consider me as a candidate in his fellowship.
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G&G: Bishop Bell, I understand there is an upcoming Episcopal Affirmation Celebration, please tell us about this exciting occasion. Bishop Bell: Yes! As you mentioned I have been officially
Q&A consecrated Bishop on July 9th at the Global United I’ve have personally been blessed with gifts and graces on Fellowship during the annual conference at Paradise my life to be an establishmentarian. My life experiences Island in Nassau, Bahamas. From the official letter I personally and in ministry have helped refine the anointing received, I knew that I have to help a pastor's vision due to the location not for their ministry come to everyone would be reality. Being a Bishop now able to attend, and it will only strengthen my gift was my heart’s desire to establish and help others to be surrounded by establish. Furthermore it all my family, friends will continue to grant me and church family. knowledge and insight to help So, I immediately develop and execute a pastor's pulled a team together vision that I may be covering. to start planning You will hear more about this for the “Elevation when I release my book “The Experience”. Now we Blueprint of Ministry” in are less than a week 2020. out from this amazing celebration. Starting G&G: Bishop Bell, do you Friday September 6th, I believe or would you say there am calling the reunion. Global United Fellowship’s Newly Consecrated Bishops with Presiding Prelate Bishop are any misconceptions about Neil C. Ellis (center), (left-right) Bishop Branford Dean, Bishop Shawn L. Bell, Bishop We will kick off the Bishops? What does it mean Theodore Noble, and Bishop Samuel Cornish weekend with special to be a Bishop of the Global guests, my brother United Fellowship? Are there Dr. Jamal H. Bryant, Jonathan Nelson and many more. or will there be specific duties assigned to you? Saturday is the official Episcopal Affirmation service and Bishop Bell: It luncheon. Special guests just to name a few will be my means a lot to Presiding Bishop His Grace, Bishop Neil C. Ellis, Dr. be aligned with Bishop Carolyn Showell, Lorraine Stancel Lawson, Eric a visionary who Wadell and many more. We will close out the weekend has a global on Sunday celebrating our 18th church anniversary, our mandate. Being guests includes Elder Gary Sprewell, Sunday’s Best Joshua a part of this Copeland, and Charles Butler, and Trinity. What a high global fellowship time in the Lord it will be. allows me to see things bigger G&G: Bishop Bell, there are many questions and than the United explanations that surround the office of a Bishop; would States but a you explain to us the office and role of a Bishop as it vision for the relates to your elevation? Is the office different depending world. This came on denominations, doctrines and/or beliefs? to past when Bishop Bell: Each denomination will have different I was the only guidelines and structures put in place as they operate in one consecrated the role of a Bishop. But there is one commonality that we bishop in these Presiding Prelate Bishop Neil C. Ellis serving Bishop Shawn L. Bell Holy Communion. share and that is to bring oversight, wisdom and guidance United States; to pastors’ ministries that we have been blessed to cover. Continued on page 10 www.gracenglorymagazine.org www.gracenglorymagazine.org 99
Q&A Continued from page 9
the others were from Turks and Caicos Island, South Africa and the Bahamas. Currently in GUF I am the State Bishop of Maryland and I working directly under my Provisional Bishop Jerome Williams who covers West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland and DC. I help with special projects and Christian education in GUF. I have been blessed to do workshops and seminars and our national conference. Whatever my Presiding Bishop requires of me I make myself available to assist. G&G: Bishop Bell, many people struggle with knowing what their mission or purpose is for their life, at what point did you really know what your mission or purpose was for your life, did it ever include becoming a Bishop? Bishop Bell: I knew at a young age that I was called to minister the word of God and help His people. I was comfortable with the call on my life and doing God’s work came naturally to me. I have been blessed to have the ability to connect and develop people’s natural gifts and take them to their next level. Like it states in the scripture Proverbs 18:16, “A man’s gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men.” The timing in my life being
The First Family, Bishop Shawn L. Bell, First Lady Faye Bell, Miss Olivia Bell
10 September 2019 | Grace&Glory
The First Family, Bishop Shawn L. Bell, First Lady Faye Bell, Miss Olivia Bell
elevated to Bishop couldn’t have come at a better season in my life because my family and local ministry have joined in together and are now ready for the next. G&G: Bishop Bell, what does this elevation mean to you personally and to your family? What will be the most notable change in your life? Bishop Bell: Although I was officially consecrated Bishop, prior to that, I had already been doing the work of a Bishop; covering and mentoring over sixteen pastors and minsters. As it relates to my family, I have always and will always put my family before ministry and the Bishopric. They have always been and continue to be supportive as God elevates me; they along with God make doing ministry easy. G&G: Bishop Bell, how will this elevation as Bishop affect the Greater Paradise Church? Will there be any significant changes as it relates to your role as pastor of Greater Paradise Church? Bishop Bell: I have the greatest church on this side of heaven. Greater Paradise has always been supportive of me and trusts the vision God gives me. I have prepared them over the years for the changes that may come with elevation or new roles in my life and ministry. They understand that as God has elevated me, they too are
Q&A elevated. As God does new things for me, He will do new things for them. As it relates to my role as pastor, I don’t think that my role will change much. I travel a lot already, so I may travel a little more but I always try to ensure that I don’t miss Sunday mornings at Greater Paradise. I have made a vow to myself that no matter how much God elevates me I want to remain humble, reachable and transparent to God and his people. G&G: Bishop Bell, as a newly elevated Bishop what do you think should be the church’s focus in today’s society? What should the church be saying and doing right now? Bishop Bell: I believe that the church should go back to the basics- evangelism and discipleship. Our mandate is to make sure we are advancing the kingdom. Like John 12:32 states, “And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” In doing this we will see our dark cities turn into beacons of light. G&G: Bishop Bell, after all is said and done, you have experienced and witnessed God do great things in your life and the life of the Greater Paradise Christian Center. Is there still more that you are looking forward to in the future for you and the Greater Paradise Center? Bishop Bell: In almost eighteen years God has been so good to Greater Paradise. Like most churches, we have had our share of ups and downs, but He has blessed us tremendously. In June 2011 we endured a fire that
Bishop Shawn L. Bell and the consecration adjutants holding the Vestments, Cross and Ring, and Certificate.
destroyed everything. When others said our ministry would fall apart, we grew and became stronger. We rebuilt and then came our café, hair salon, summer camp and weekly television broadcast. The vision at our current campus has been fulfilled and God has released to me the new vision for Greater Paradise. Eyes haven’t seen nor ear heard all the great things God has in store for Greater Paradise. To all of our great readers, a great announcement is coming. Stay tuned Baltimore.
Bishop Shawn L. Bell attending the Global United Fellowship service.
G&G: Bishop Bell, I praise God for you and what God is doing in your life and for what you are doing for the Kingdom of God. May God’s richest blessings always be upon you! Bishop Shawn L. Bell answering the Call to the office of Bishop.
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Pastors and Church Leadership Host a Free information session for Seniors
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 program to help Seniors through June 2020. There is no cost to the event host or attendees. We provide refreshments and a free gift to each attendee.
Contact us 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.
14 September 2019 | Grace&Glory
Celebrating Pastor Marshall F. Prentice, Lady Elvira Prentice and the Prentice Family on their 34th Pastoral Anniversary
Ministry to the Zion Baptist Church Disciples September 15, 2019 28) “Hast thou not known: hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of His understanding. 29) He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. 30) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: 31) But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:28-31 – KJV)
Dr. Marshall F. Prentice, Pastor Weekly Schedule:
Church School: 8:45 AM Worship Services: 10:15 AM
1st Sundays Worship / Communion Service – 10:15 AM Tuesday Night @ 7pm – Prayer Service Wednesday Daytime Bible Study 10am – 12 Noon Thursday Family Bible Study – 7pm Friday @ 6am – Early Morning Prayer
Zion Baptist Church|1700 N. Caroline Street|Baltimore, MD 21213 www.zbcbaltimore.com / zbcbaltimore13@gmail.com
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trinkets to triumph
Number nine is up next and signals a new order! September, the ninth month, is the perfect month for a new order and to set up for success. It is the perfect time to regroup and reset your plans to have a successful finish for the rest of the year. Setting up for success is setting your affairs in order for a new season. Say, “so long” to summer and get ready to resume all activities relating to pushing your children towards academic excellence for the new school year and making successful strides towards your Tracey Nicole George www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com career and other goals. Setting up for success is a guarantee that you are a “goal getter” and a good steward of what God has blessed you with. It requires order, discipline, focus, and a plan. Throughout the Bible, we can find evidence that God loved and ordained order. Applying the principles and precepts in the scriptures can guarantee that you are set up for success. Setting up for success is good for your health and avoids burnout. In Exodus 18:13-26, Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, warned Moses that sitting alone from sun up to sun down advising the children of Israel would wear him out and was detrimental to his health. Jethro set Moses up for success by sharing with him a system that would help him advise the people and avoid burnout. He advised him to appoint Godly men as judges to help him hear the issues of the children of Israel. Moses adopted Jethro’s method, appointed people to help him out, and was set up for success. Setting up for success propels you to prosper. In Genesis 41:15-56, Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams and he has the opportunity to advise him on what to do when the dreams manifest. Pharaoh was impressed by Joseph and made him second in command of all of Egypt. The dreams manifested and Joseph’s method of storing up during the seven years of plenty to provide provision for the seven years of famine that would follow was a success. There was more than enough and some to share because Joseph set up for success. Setting up for success is simple. You can start by eliminating things that are holding you down. God said that you could cast all of your cares on Him because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). Revisit and write down the promise and prophecy spoken over your life and seek the Lord to inquire about the method you should use to make it manifest or master it to set you up for success. Proper planning for the week ahead on Sundays sets you up for a successful week. Before or after your corporate time of worship and fellowship, set time aside to write down your goals for the week and your to do list to tackle them, prepare your meals for the week, create your exercise schedule, plan your wardrobe for the week, and map out the time you will spend with your Master. This system guarantees that you are prepared, ready to pursue your purpose, and sets you up for success. Throughout the Gospels, you can witness Jesus setting order by strategically selecting His disciples and teaching them how to carry out His mission and message. Jesus knew it was a wise move to set order and have a successful plan in place to carry out His plan for redemption. Whether you fell, faded, failed or got fed up, find another way to begin again to set yourself up for success for the new season ahead. Make moves to manifest a successful new season. You are set up for success!
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to your good health
Getting Back on Track 18 18 September September2019 2019| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
The summer is coming to a close with school back in session, vacations wrapped up and summer camps ending. Meetings, athletic practices and lessons for every kind of activity have been added to the calendar and the busyness of life starts up again. With this in mind, each of us has to be intentional about what we choose to add to our calendars. As a society we have applauded those who have a lot going on and have looked down on those who live and work at a slower pace. We have cluttered our lives to the point that we no longer know how to relax or to appreciate when we have nothing planned on our schedule. The time to stop running ragged and working to exhaustion is now. We have seen the health, relationship, personal and spiritual impact that overextending oneself has created. Couples pass one another like ships in the night. Children barely see their friends because of all of their rehearsals, sports events or school obligations. Persons have overcommitted themselves outside of church that now they no longer have time to serve in ministries let alone attend worship. We have to press pause on our commitments and assess what is most important and then prioritize those items. Getting back on track will take some time for some of us. Our lives are in need of streamlining mostly because when we don’t have time for God, ourselves or our families and friends then we have to consider changing our lifestyle. God wants us to get in rhythm with Him. He wants us to have the abundant life but that does not mean we have to stay busy and lose precious time with those who matter most. Getting back on track is not an option. It will require major changes for some and a few minor changes for others. Do not delay. Make the adjustments so you can enjoy what God has in store for you.
Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center
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woman’s perspective
Fall is upon us. The leaves are turning colors and falling to the ground. The air is a bit cooler and transition is in the air. I don’t know about you my sister but I love this time of year; the crispness of the air, the beauty of the colorful leaves and pulling out my favorite fall fashion. But I think there is a more profound observance that we can take from this time of year. This is a time of renewal and preparation in nature. All of the beauty we see is the earth preparing for her next season winter. It has been said that during this season Mother Nature is showing us by example how to let dead things go. When you think about it, even with the unmatched beauty, the leaves falling to the ground are the trees’ way to get rid of the excess. It is a way to get rid of something that was appropriate for the previous season but will not be a good fit for the next season. It has me thinking. Is it time for renewal and transition in your life my sister? Are there any dead things that need to be let go? “Therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of 20 20 September September2019 2019| Grace&Glory | Grace&Glory
witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,” Hebrews 12:1. We focus a lot of attention on making sure that we rid our lives of sin and believe me I think that is imperative. But I wish we would also focus as much attention on getting rid of weights that hold us back as well. Nature is showing us the simplicity of the fact that seasons change and when seasons change adjustments must be made. In the summer, it is appropriate to wear shorts and tank tops but when there is a shift and temperatures get cooler, it is no longer appropriate or wise. How often does the same principle apply in our lives? We grow and mature and shift in our character but we still attempt to carry people, places, things and habits that were only appropriate in the last season. I don’t know about you but I try to clean out my refrigerator at least once a week. It’s amazing how fast food that was healthy and even nutritious can quickly become toxic and damaging if we ingest it.
Relationships, habits, and mindsets can be the same way. In one season, they can serve us and be good for us and if we aren’t careful, we miss the expiration date. All of a sudden, they are not healthy and nourishing to our souls, but rather they become toxic and need to be released. Do you recognize when it is time to release and renew? Do you recognize when you are in transition and entering a new season? My sister I encourage you to take a note from nature and embrace shift and newness. Let’s recognize when renewal is in the air and truly prepare for the new season which we are entering into. We must release toxic and unhealthy people, places, things, habits and mindsets that no longer serve us. We must have faith in God that He will not require us to release something without having a replacement. Let’s walk boldly into the new place that God is Tiffany Bethea calling us She-EO Life Mentor www.Tiffanybethea.com into.
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keep the fire burning
Setting Life Goals I have recently noticed the trend of people making comments on social media platforms for relationship goals or best friend’s goals or travel goals. But the reality is, I rarely see people fiercely pursuing their personal or professional dreams and goals seriously. Every day that God wakes you, you must go and serve Him first. Everything starts from there. If you feel stuck or lost, think about the things you are saying and doing. Are you doing things out of ego and self-fulfillment or are you doing things that reflect servitude? If you do the latter, but still feel like you are moving forward, then it is important to create tangible life goals. Buried dreams, forgotten goals, and underdeveloped potentials will be things of the past if you begin to set your life goals. Do not wait until the end of the year to start planning for 2020, plan a better life for you, starting today! Goal setting is a powerful process that allows you to have greater control over your future. Goal setting skills can be applied to everything you do. Setting life goals is like having a map to show you where you want to go and avoid getting lost in the process. With your goals intact, you can drive straight to your preferred
to your good health
Getting Back on Track
by Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill
destination without wasted time or wrong turns. #1. Start your goal setting exercise with what you want to be, achieve and have in your lifetime. For Pastor Tim and I, we wanted a home that reflected God’s art everywhere we looked and a home that would give us enough space to host our family and loved ones. #2. Work your way through a series of lower level plans up to the things you will have to do on an everyday basis. By making this structure of your plans, you can be able to break the biggest plan you have into several smaller daily tasks to reach it. In order to achieve our goal of buying our dream home, we had to IMMEDIATELY think and do things differently. First, we had to start a business to realistically generate an income that we could control and would allow us to do that. And in addition to our day jobs, we had to sacrifice many nights and weekends to work in that business to save and earn money. #3. Setting life goals is easy - making them real is the challenging part. After setting your life goals, make a serious pact to follow them. Keep the process going with the same fervor and determination when you started it. Here’s a guideline on how to set life goals that keep you motivated: • Choose something that is EXTREMELY
The summer is coming to a close with school back in session, vacations wrapped up and summer camps ending. Meetings, athletic practices and lessons for every kind of activity have been added to the calendar and the busyness of life starts up again. With this in mind, each of us has to be intentional about what we choose to add to our calendars. As a society we have applauded those who have a lot going on and have looked down on those who live and work at a slower pace. We have cluttered our lives to the point that we no longer know how to relax or to appreciate when we have nothing planned on our schedule. The time to stop running ragged and working to exhaustion is now. We have seen the health, relationship, personal and spiritual impact that overextending oneself has created. Couples pass one another like ships in the night. Children barely see their friends because 22 September 2019 | Grace&Glory of all of their rehearsals, sports events or school obligations. Persons have overcommitted themselves outside of church that now they no longer have time to serve in ministries let alone attend worship. We
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important and personal to you. • Write down what you want to accomplish and by what date. • Be realistic and do not set your goals too high, or too low. • Be positive. Express your goals in a positive statement. • Be specific. Set a precise plan, including dates, times, and amounts so that you will know everything needed to achieve the goal and take pride from having achieved it. • Prioritize. Give each of your objective’s priority. It will help you from feeling overwhelmed by the things you must do in a period of time. Finally, create a support system starting with your faith in God. This is a critical step. You must be the one to decide what to pursue and what direction you want to aim in life. But only He can ultimately help you see it through.
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
have to press pause on our commitments and assess what is most important and then prioritize those items. Getting back on track will take some time for some of us. Our lives are in need of streamlining mostly because when we don’t have time for God, ourselves or our families and friends then we have to consider changing our lifestyle. God wants us to get in rhythm with Him. He wants us to have the abundant life but that does not mean we have to stay busy and lose precious time with those who matter most. Getting back on track is not an option. It will require major changes for some and a few minor changes for others. Do not delay. Make Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, the adjustments Renaissance Christian so you can Counseling Center
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monthly manna
If I were to ask you, how do you define faith? What would you say? When you consider the principle of faith, what does that look like for you? How have you incorporated faith into your daily lifestyle? I am currently reading this book entitled, The Growing Power of Faith by Roxanne Brant. It’s not a book filled with hundreds and hundreds of pages, as a matter of fact eighty-one to be exact, but it’s filled with numerous teachings and examples of faith. The author states, “Faith is a force that we can build up in our lives. The amount of faith we have and how quickly or slowly it grows is up to us.” Our faith should be ever growing! This is not the time to patty cake when it comes to your faith. If I can be completely transparent, the new season of your life will not be distinguished by favor alone; but it will also be distinguished by your faith. If you really want to know what gives God pleasure, its faith. The bible teaches us that without faith it is impossible to please God. But let’s not stop there! The rest of the scripture says, “For he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) At times, I think we gravitate so much of desiring favor and walking in favor that we miss the opportunity to build our faith. We desire the favor of God to elevate us, bless us and enlarge us. I am not in any way speaking against favor. I am a witness to the power of favor, but I can tell you that my prayers and focus became so consumed with favor, that the substance of my faith was lacking. It was as if, whatever I lacked in faith I wanted favor to make up the difference. Beloved, that is not how God operates. What if God said to us, “Less favor and more faith!” Would you be upset? Would you think maybe God misquoted himself? How would you handle that type of announcement? Ladies and 24 24 September September2019 2019| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory
gentlemen, that was my announcement. I just keep hearing the Holy Spirit tell us, in this monthly manna, we must BUILD OUR FAITH! I am telling you with everything within me, you can’t stop growing your faith. You cannot leech onto the faith of others. There is too much going on in your life and mine to keep faith in an inadequate state. The bible teaches us, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1). Therefore, we have substance and evidence. The evidence that you will see and experience in the later seasons of 2019 will be in direct correlation of your substance. What do I mean? If you want greater evidence grow, build and release a greater substance. We are asking the Lord and desiring that He answer these BIG faith requests with little to no substance! In this month, check your substance! I pray that there will be more testimonies, in regard to the evidence of faith, in the remainder of this year above anything else. If you have a prayer partner, pray more regarding faith. Don’t let this year end and you have not increased in your substance. Don’t let this year end and your faith is just sitting in Que. You have to Carenda Deonne be intentional. Now faith! www.carendadeonne.com I believe and trust that our admin@carendadeonne.com evidence is in the substance of our 888-473-2221 Twitter @cdpgem faith. Oh, let faith Facebook @carendadeonne arise! I look forward Instagram @carendadeonne to hearing your Blog @ www.carendadeonne.wordpress.com testimonies. #livelifeonthepromiseofimpact
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she speaks
My eldest brother wrote a song entitled "I Give up All to Follow You". He wrote this song when I was a little girl not fully understanding the message or the meaning behind the words. However, just like every other song we hear as children, I sang it often, singing all the words and the ad libs, and hummed the tune. It took years for me to truly understand the meaning behind the song, but it didn't stop me from singing my brother's song in the meantime. I have lived in a Christian home all my life. I gave my life to God early and served Him and His church as faithfully as I knew how throughout the years. As a teenager, He challenged me to know Him for myself and I didn't. I was relying on my parent's faith and their teaching to shape my faith and how I lived. I needed to look at my life and make a choice to give up all, stop straddling the fence, and follow Him. That day I made the decision to whole heartedly follow Him. I made some mistakes along the way, but I would immediately repent, and ask for forgiveness. It wasn't until years later that the words of my childhood song would come back around with meaning. It hit me about two years ago with the transition from Wisconsin to Arizona. I understood it on a heart level. The move made me really feel like I gave up all to follow Him, Jesus. Recently, I had a dream that opened my eyes even further to the heart of song. In the dream I was sitting in a house not wanting for much of anything; bills were paid, my children were clothed and fed; I had more than what I could have asked for. As I journeyed on in the dream things slowly started to fade away. My life changed. The degree of comfort that I was accustomed to living became less comfortable. My life was 26 September 2019 | Grace&Glory
changing right before my eyes and not for the better, by my standards. I’m truly not a vain person. I don’t place stock in material possessions, but I do value the safety and security that paid bills and food on the table provide. In the dream I was comfortable and enjoying the fruits of my labor. I kept asking God "why?", "why is this happening?". His reply was this, “I have need of you. What are you willing to give up for me?” I began to cry in my sleep. I cried so much that I woke myself up out of my sleep finding a pillow case drenched in my own tears. In my response to the Lord's question I answered, "I’ll give up all.” I had to keep the conversation going and followed my answer up with a question back to Him, "Why?" And again, He said, “I have need of you. Follow me to a land that flows milk and honey.” (Numbers 13:27). I shared with Him that I’m already there (or so I thought). He then replied, “There are people who are crying out for Me, and where I’m sending you, you will have to work because it won’t come easy, but your reward will be great.” I replied to God again, “I’ll give up all.” Then I was awakened by my tears and singing my song of rejoice. In prayer that morning, the revelation hit me of the land that I was in, Arizona, being the land, He led me to and assigned me to work. This is the land that is tied to the reward He promised in the dream as well. I pose to this question to you, "What does it mean to give it all up for Him and are you willing to do it?"
Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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body basics
slamming hairstyles, manicured nails, and eloquent business suits who are very unhealthy. Tell me, what sense does that make? Why have nice-looking nails, a fresh hairstyle and dressed to kill without experiencing a healthy quality of life. Over the years, I have had the pleasure to work with many women from all walks of life who have found the secret to physical, spiritual and cosmetic balance. It is possible to look the part corporately and still have sex appeal on your fitness journey. So, let’s spend some time discussing some ways you can make this happen. Even if you are one of those fortunate women who have hair that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, you can still learn some tips about exercising while maintaining a good hairstyle.
“Don’t remove the kinks from your hair, remove them from your brain!” –Marcus Gravey I have been a fitness expert for close to two decades, and one of the biggest concerns among clients has been managing their hair after a workout. Women truly want to know how working out and sculpting their bodies can be possible without destroying their fresh hairstyle. This is a legitimate concern because I realize that going to the hair salon twice a week is not only expensive, it is also unrealistic and time consuming. America has conditioned us to believe that woman with straight long hair is more appealing in the corporate arena than those who have natural hair. I believe that wearing a natural hairstyle is not only attractive, it’s great for working out because its stress free and low maintenance. However, there is no denying that first impressions matter in all areas of life, so looking the part is very important, with that being said, many women, especially African-American women, have a dilemma. What comes first, good hair or good health? I have seen so many ladies with 28 September September2019 2019| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 28
In the hair industry today, there are many options to choose from. There really is no excuse if you desire to change your body and still maintain great healthy hair. All it takes is a little creativity and planning to get started. If you are serious about your health and wellness, there are plenty of options available to you. African-American women may have a slight disadvantage compared to women of other cultures because of the texture of your hair, but this doesn’t give you a reason not to take care of your health. Think of it this way; your family and friends are counting on you to live a long and healthy life without heart disease, diabetes, cancer and obesity. You mean way too much, to way too many people to allow cosmetic issues to short en your future. Listed below are a few alternatives that can provide practical ways to have great health and great hair. BRAIDS The good news is that braids will last up to six weeks before you have to get them redone. Having your hair braided gives you the opportunity to sweat hard, then wash and go. I have seen this approach very affective for so many women. It is low maintenance and very cost effective. HAIR WEAVES A nice weave is also good because it will last longer than braids, but it must be a good one. You may have to spend a little more on the front end, but it will be worth it in the long run. With a good weave you can work out with a pony-tail and still look good at your Monday morning business meeting. WIGS Maybe it’s me, but I find it sometimes impossible to tell the difference between a wig and real hair! With a good wig, you can get away with so much, and a woman can choose any hairstyle she wants instantly. Even if your hair is a hot mess after an intense workout, you can go to the locker room and CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS, transform yourself immediately. Fitness Experts Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center Good hair and good health are now a reality! Now 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 its time to get your body moving! 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com
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health matters
Last month we discussed important immunizations recommended for children. But, do you know that adults need to have immunizations too? Receiving vaccinations is often a neglected measure in maintaining health as an adult. The need for vaccinations does not go away as you grow older. In fact, there are specific ages in your adult life when vaccinations are recommended. Also, protection from vaccines you received as a child can wear off over time. The vaccines you need as an adult are determined by many factors including your age, the presence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders; impending travel and pregnancy. Without receiving adulthood vaccination you may be at risk for new and different diseases. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that all adults receive a yearly vaccination against influenza. This vaccination commonly referred to as the “flu shot” is required for most health care workers, and recommended for persons working in environments where they interact with a large number of individuals. The influenza vaccine should be taken beginning in late September and early October before for the flu season begins. Vaccination against shingles is recommended for healthy adults age 50 years and older. Shingles is a latent form of chickenpox and is caused by the varicella virus. The virus can also cause cold sores or fever blisters. The virus can lay dormant in the body and then awaken spontaneously, causing numbness and tingling in the extremities and painful blisters on the back and torso of its victims. The Pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for adults age 65 years and older and for adults with chronic health conditions such as chronic respiratory disease like COPD and for smokers. This vaccine protects adults from pneumonia. Developing pneumonia in an older adult can lead to permanent lung damage,
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debilitation, and death. Receiving immunization against tetanus and diphtheria is recommended every 10 years. This is an especially important vaccine for individuals who travel beyond the United States. Adults may also need vaccines to protect against human papillomavirus, which can cause certain cervical cancer; meningitis, and hepatitis A and B. Some adults may require immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) if they were not properly immunized as children. Most adults report very mild side effects from vaccinations. Side effects generally include soreness at the injection site, that may go away on its own or may subside by taking a mild over the counter pain reliever. Severe side effects from immunizations are very rare. Immunizations are available at your healthcare provider’s office, neighborhood pharmacies, community health clinics, local health departments, and maybe even your workplace. Most health insurance plans cover the cost of immunizations. Getting vaccinated is one of the safest ways for you to protect your adult health. To assess your need for specific vaccines, the CDC recommends that you take the short quiz at https://www2.cdc.gov/ Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels nip/adultimmsched/. Discuss the Assistant Professor results with your healthcare provider. College of Health Professions Together you can identify the possible Coppin State University vaccines you may need to stay DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthy. healthytips 025@gmail.com
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