Become Magazine Winter 2020 by Sharon Holliday

W I N T E R / D E C E M B E R

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Become Become Magazine's Special Dedication "Honor" Mother Esther Thomas

The Wardrobe Change Tinnika Ray

Maximizing Your God Given Gifts Janice Gibbons

M e r r y

C h r i s t m a s

How to Balance Ministry and Family Gladys Gadri

Exhortation: Stay Focused Patrica Ray Finances: Tammy B. Hooks Aspiring Young Writer

Amariah Ray

CONTENTS Become Magazine... Dedication, p7 Founder/Editor, Author, Ghostwriter, Pastor Sharon Holliday

Stay Focus, p4 Elder Patrica Ray (Exhortations)

Managing Family and Ministry , p15 Prophetess/Pastor Gladys Gadri.

Finances, p21 Chemist/ Financial Expert Tammy Burrough Hooks

Maximizing Your God Given Gifts, p25 First Lady, Janice Gibbons

Giving to Those in Need, p27 Giving to the Women's Shelter "She extends her hand to the poor,

The Wardrobe Change p29

Yes, she gives to the needy.

Educator, Tinnika Ray

Mother Thomas helps w/Outreach Drive

Self-Care Tips, p33

Featuring Stories from Aspiring Writers, p37 Aspiring Writer, Amariah Ray DISCLAIMER: NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAKES ANY MEDICAL CLAIMS OR MEDICAL ADVICE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR MEDICAL DOCTOR PRIOR USE OF ANY PRODUCTS OR INFORMATION READ WITHIN THIS PUBLICATION.

Winter/2020

Contributors

Gladys Gadri Tammy B. Hooks Janice J. Gibbons Amirah Ray Patrica Ray Tinnika Ray

The Lord gave the word, great was the company of those that published it. Psalm 68:11

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Staying Focused

EXHORTATION BY PATRICIA STEVENSON RAY

Adapting to being a well-rounded person is having our focus priority in order. Our focus point is God. Having a God-focused life will help us live a balanced life. Priority 1: Staying focus on God. We must begin every day with God.

When you get up in the morning take the time to thank Him for waking you up. Thank Him for a new day. Give thanks for a peaceful day and protection during the day. Thank you, Lord, that we can begin each day with a grateful heart. Thank you for giving us a way to be connected to you. John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in him bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. To begin your day with him, we must abide in him. 2. Remain prayerful. 1Thessalonians 5:17 pray without ceasing stay in. Be bold and simple. 3. Keep the faith, focus on Him. Romans 1:17 for it is the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written.Though you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see him in the natural, remain spiritually focused. Stay in the Spirit. 4. Choose to serve God. Matthew 6:24 no one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. 5. Remove sin from your life, kill it, otherwise; it will kill you spiritually, physically, or both. We must run the race that is ahead and never give up. Heb. 12:1 Therefore we also since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. Prayer: Lord help us to stay focus. Help us to cling to the things of God in our daily lives. Help us be committed to pray. Praying without ceasing so we can be an instrument of change. The situation we are facing in this time with Covid-19; heal bodies, lost souls, marriages, broken homes, loneliness and whatever mountains we are faced with, we pray for these situations to be resolved for your glory. In Jesus Name, Amen. 4

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Notes from Her Kitchen

ARE WE WHAT WE EAT? Are we what we eat? If so, we must become a pantry lover of God's good things. More Real Foods. Here's a thought on "breads". I like to make breads. When it comes to breakfast foods, I'm not a big breakfast food fan, but almond flour pancakes and waffles are my new but not so frequent breakfast delight.

I Love Breads. So, I have made changes to the use of flour. I have an added Almond flour to our better choice list. Other flour choices are Spelt and Coconut. Almond flour is one of my wisdom choices for bread, which can replace most wheat flour recipes. It can be purchased at your local supermarkets, and healthy food stores. My favorite wholesale market is Costco. If they have it I get it there, Why? More for the bucks than most places. You can get your frozen fruit there too. If you do not want to make it from scratch, try this brand. I did! I love them! simplemills.com #SimpleMills Gluten Free Pancake & Waffle Almond Flour (organic)

IF YOU ARE THINKING HEART HEALTHY, GLYCEMIC INDEX, DIGESTIVE HEALTH, AND LOWER RISK OF COGNITIVE DISEASE. CHECK OUT MORE ON WEBMD.COM ALMOND FLOUR. ALWAYS READ YOUR LABELS FOR FOOD ALLERGIES AND NATRUAL INGREDIENTS. AND CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE MAKING CHANGES FOR YOUR HEALTH.

"WHERE WE ARE LIMITED GOD IS NOT. OUR ESSENTIAL PERSONAL IS THE UNLIMITED FERVENT PRAYES OF THE RIGHTEOUS" ~SUBI'S QUOTES~

editor's notes The Holiday's has a way of getting us in the mindset of giving, travel, and family gatherings. People moving from different geographical locations in various ways. Your travel could be by foot, automobile, train, boat, airplane, or any other means and with or without luggage and for this time of the year Christmas packages. The reality of going anyplace so freely has changed. Unlimited, the world is experiencing the difference that Coronavirus (Covid-19) has brought about and certainly this traveling season will be different. We hope that Become can add to joy, and inspire peace of mind and motivate you to live your best life in spite of all the things we are adjusting to. Our prayers are released into the earth for you and your family and friends may you not escape His great love for you. Enjoy all of what you have and take nothing for granted. Embace being home, protect your love ones in social distancing, washing hands and wearing your mask. Whichever way travel is available to you, be safe. World Health Organizations can provide you with accurate and up-to-date information.

Blessings, Sharon Holliday

Dedication to Mother FRIENDS END

Great-Grandmother

Honor

Grandmother

Mother

It's amazing to go back and take a look at those who were and are a part of our being here. Considering that we honor those in our lineage. It's a blessing to have known my maternal great-grandmother, but a misfortune not knowing my grandmother. I loved great-gran. I'm sure her daughter, my grandmother would have been just as amazing as her daughter, my Queen Esther. In honoring Mother, I also honor them all. It is our hopes that we remind you to gather with the elders and listen to the life experiences they share and ask questions, get to know them through those that lived in their time as they share their life events we call "stories." Our stories are so important. They are meant be shared so we will know those in which we come from. Biblically, God gave history enough attention for us to know how important we should consider it. We do realize some stories are not as easy or glamorous as we would like them to be in sharing, but they are the stories we experience. Sometimes because of the difficult things we encountered they block the parts that blessed us or made us better in the outcome. It is also important for it to be said, not everything is meant to be told to everyone but rather, just for one, God. Wherever bad experiences were, we wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t deny them, they are our experiences, rather we fine the silver lining in them and when they are to be a blessing to pull someone up or out of their pain, we should use our personal discretions to share them. Become Magazine is a mission to share Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faithfulness and truth, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mission to encourage, enrich and empower lives. My mother's life has done all of that for me. The Lord has confirmed many ways of honor in remembering the things she has shared over the years. For me her life has always brought God to the forefront. It is my hope, Become Magazine will always bring stories, testimonies, and encouragement that does just that.

Moms are the first women in our lives. My mother's life represents many of us. We dedicate

Become Magazine in her honor for her strength and love and the faithfulness and love of God that has carried her. I have always looked up to her no matter what. She shows strength in life. She's diligent and caring. She shows responsibility and love. Mom you are amazing! Your beginning was tough for a little girl but God has always been there, also in your long-life here, He still carries you.

Honor

I believe her strength came from the godly foundation of her life. Just thinking about her stories, I am reminded of where all this really began. When I was a child I wrote memories of my elders, I saw strength and leaders in the women even then. The writing, I tucked them away in a bible and then I realized they were all going away, that become a gray area for me, I suppose. Later, I lost the writings, but some of the memories exist in us, their seeds. Today I know, it would have been a joy to know all of those women as the adult I am now. This reiterates to me the importance of each of our lives. Let us live and value life, surely, we've learned as many lives have been loss in just the beginng of in this new decade (2020). My grandmother exists through my mother's childhood memories, but that memory only had from birth to seven years. I can't imagine that, but as I think of it, I give thanks for the long-life my mother has been granted in spite to that. It is the mother gives us our first impact, after the conception and her awareness of your existence, of love. Other experiences has surely taught me that, love the child from the womb. Grandmother had a short time to give her daughter Esther and her siblings, a mother's love. But in that time, she shared her love, it lasted my mother a lifetime. I can tell. When she shares anything about her mother that she can remember, she says, "my mama" so sweet as she was that seven years old little girl holding on to the love she had experienced with her only for a little while. My maternal grandmother's name is Claudia Lucas. She was a hard-working wife and mother of seven living children. Mom is the youngest of her siblings. Six in whom I had the life opportunity of getting to know. Grandmother Claudia was raised in a God-fearing home and united with a man of honor that I was blessed to have as a spiritual leader in my childhood through finishing High School, Grandpa Lucas, he is the one I write about in my poetry book, Creation's Path, a Poetic Journey of Faith, in the poem My Grandfather's Shoes. I can always find a testimony of God's existence in Him and his seed.

Become Magazine Winter 2020

D E D I C A T I O N Honor

His impression on me was the living word of God, seeing him reading, praying, and being devoted to love towards others. These were my mother's pillars of strength she drew from, her parents. Thinking back, though, my mother lost her mother so young, but she had an amazing Father that loved her well, I'm thankful. My mother grew up, with multiple losses as a young child, it is rare that one go through the multiple mother figures so young, such as hers. I have learned of many of my mother's strengths through her sharing her childhood stories. She had three other mother figures that nurtured her. Although these women lives were brief, she was cared for. Mrs. Anna was the dress maker and a fine cook. Mom is very neat and cares for her clothing. This was a mark of the care she was given. She is always beautifully dressed, even causally, she has class. Mom made beautiful things and bought us nice things and kept them nicely. She learned sewing skills. Mother pasted them down to us, That was from Mrs. Anna. They became skills that my sister and I learned well I think. And I earned money in High School as a personal tailor, making outfits, briefly. I see where the seeds of an entrepreneur/womanpreneur skill had been sown. (Also from Grandpa, that story in another magazine issue, maybe. This is so amazing, looking back and seeing how much we benefit from people in our lives, yet in the moment, we may not see the value of them or never imagine their impact will eventually carry you to provisions and you will pass them on. You see from each lost, there were resources for my mother's survival. I see how was God doing a special work in my mother's life that might have been hard as a little girl but my mother is still standing in His strength. Mother turned eighty-five in October 2020 as the words spoken from the scriptures. "With long life, I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation.â&#x20AC;? Psalm 91, surely I see God at work.

Honor

MOTHER

Mrs. Reather (L) and Mother Esther (R) Childhood/Lifetime friends Mother loss her last childhood friend a year ago in this season, but her cousin and she are still around imparting faith of God in us. Mrs. Reather, Mom's friend was our hair-stylist. When mom wanted us to have those Shirley Temple curls or straighten and tight curled we would go to her. Oh yea, she was amazing in her craft. The best I thought, more importantly, a really good friend. Mrs. Reather's mother was a true family friend that showed the kind of love that God would always have us do toward one another, Mom talks about the pretty little dress that she would buy when she brought one for her daughter and the sandwiches she made extra for her for school. Wow, I remember how people cared genuinely for one another when I was growing up myself. We sure could use more of that today. I can name a few others that made strong impressions on Mom and me, like cousin Maude and Auntie Ella Mae and her mother's Sister for sure, Aunt Madie. I would call them the heroic inspirations that will always be remembered and honored too. Our aged woman are honorable and we know that there are so many stories to be told of their strength and faith in God as they have given so much to their families. For our wonderful mom we want nothing less than to give to her in every way God provides. We thank you, as you join us in saluting her and all the women that inspired my mother into becoming the great woman she is.

Family and Friends

Esther and Her Four Daughter

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Sassy

Mrs. Anna Lucas

Among these Women is a true Legacy of Loving Care This Grandma Sissy. In my lifetime I had the opportunity to know her. She was very loving and caring, children were always around her and grandpa's house. Playing on Lincoln Street was a high light of our childhood. Though she baked well, I remember the chocolate cakes and the biscuits. What I remember most is that she was a jewel in character. So the influence she had, impacted many lives. She and grandpa raised several

Mrs. Annie Lucas

children and cared for a number of grandchildren and great-grands. But I am greatful for the her part in both my mother's life and mines. There are so many stories we can share when we give our history the opportunity not only to be shared but honored.

Thank you, Grandma, Mrs. Anna, and Mrs. Annie. Some of the heritage of Proverbs 31 women I come from.

Step-Grandma Sissy (Grandma)

Mrs. Lenora Lucas

Become Magazine Special Dedication Winter 2020

Honor Honor, is to esteem you highly. To Esther Thomas You are our jewel, more valuable than precious stones, rubies. You are an example of strength, love, and woman of value. We dedicate Become Magazine in the honor of the God you serve with all your heart, soul, and all your understanding. Esther, you are named with honor. Esther is a woman who has stood through some of the toughest storms of life. She has worn strength like a shield, whereby: her challenges alway reveals the grace that is sufficient. We know life never goes without tears and difficult trials, and painful decision. You endured many consequences of life, as many woman do, but you have surpassed them all. What I know and have experienced in knowing you Mother, says, "honor her."

"Strength and honor are her clothing, and she smiles at the future." Proverbs 31:25

We see that long-life has been granted and may it continues as the Lord tarries. Esther is the mother of four beautiful daughters who loves her beyond measure. Now, she has two sons-in-love that adores her as their own. All of her daughters has married and has brought forth her twelve grandchildren and many grand and great-grands to her genealogy. What a blessing! She has a host of family members that also loves her and shows her more and more each day. Family is good! It is also great to have good family. Mother Esther Thomas, as a woman of example the strength we all need, Become Magazine is honored share the stories of faith, strength, endurance and overcoming life challenges as a tribute to you. You are many of us. Your example has proven God's faithfulness and love, therefore; Become Magazine strives to carry the torch of God's love, encouragement, enrichment, and empowerment through the inspired written words of God to others. We give thanks to God always for your life Mother Esther Thomas. 12 12

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Spiritual Meditations Alone the Shore Psalm 93 The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty; the Lord is robed,He has girded Himself with strength and power; the world also is established, that it cannot be moved. Your throne is establish from of old; You are from everlasting. The floods have lifted up, O'Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the flash lift up the roaring of their waves. The Lord on high is mightier and more glorious than the noise of many waters, yes, than the mighty breakers and waves of the sea. Your testimonies are very sure; holiness (apparent in separation from sin with simple trust and hearty obedience) is becoming your house, O'Lord, forever.

Pastor Ransom Holliday

Cold and Daring Oh how sweet are get-a-ways in the winter and good for us spiritually, physically, and mentally. Spirit, Soul, Body Self-Care Mytle Beach, SC

Become Magazine Winter 2020

A GLOBAL CRISIS NEEDS GLOBAL WISDOM AND GLOBAL PRAYERS +

Praying Weekly God's Women In Prayer ~ love cares ~ "pray without ceasing" 1Thessalaians 5:17 14

How to Balance Ministry and Family GLADYS GADRI

Gladys Gadri is a Registered Respiratory Therapist, an international speaker, conference and talk show host, the wife of Apostle George Gadri, and a mother of three. Author of Styled by Grace: A Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Dressing Modestly Without Breaking the Bank, Essentials of the Empowered Woman Vol. 1, Daily Affirmations: Living The Empowered Life, 1/2 Sized: How I Sliced My Bodyweight in Half, and the CEO of Eagle Wings International Academy. She and her husband are the Founders of eEagle Ministries International and G. K Gadri Ministries in Durham, North Carolina. The success of her balanced life is attributed to her dedication and love for the things of God.

Contributor Prophetess/Pastor Gladys Gadri

Become Magazine Winter 2020

How to Balance Ministry and Family Working in ministry while raising a family can be challenging but it is durable and it’s all worth it. As a wife, a mom of three children, a Pastor, an author, a women empowerment conference & talk Show host, an entrepreneur, and a fitness enthusiast. I wear many hats as such, I’ve disciplined myself to balance all the areas of my life so one doesn’t steal from the other. At the end of the day, if one area fails, I’ve failed them all. I’ve been in ministry over 10 years now. During these periods, I faced some unimaginable challenges which tested my faith but never once did I feel the need to abandon the call of God upon my life…and neither should you! Unfortunately, many women have believed in the lie that they can’t successfully balance ministry and family let alone do them well. As women, we are equipped to multitask and create solutions that work for a group. So, yes we can balance ministry and family provided we plan strategically. Here is how: 1. Make Sure Your Family Know Your Priorities. Set your priorities right. No matter how passionate you are towards your ministry, your family need to know they come first and are more important. If you don’t get this right, then what’s the point? Your family is your very first ministry, and ministry begins at home. God has entrusted your family to you to show them His love and to grow them into Christ-followers. In our family we have set our priorities as; God first, spouse second, children third, and church fourth. My husband and I communicate this to our children and prove it with our actions.When we honor and prioritize our marriage and family above ministry, I believe we honor God. Yes your ministry is equally important, just never more important than your family.

How to Balance Ministry and Family (cont.) 2. Include Your Family in Your Ministry. Pastoring a church shouldn’t be just you and your spouse, it should include your entire family. I know there is a notion that when Pastor’s children are involved in ministry all their lives, there are tendencies of them resenting it when they grow up. But that is not always the case, include them and allow them to celebrate the wins with you. Our children participate in the media, music, dance, and hospitality team. We let them know that “these are the benefits of being Pastors’ children!” They often share ideas with us as to what they would like changed in the youth ministry and we implement some of these changes because they have really great ideas. It’s very rewarding to include your family in the ministry. Entrust them with responsibilities, celebrate the wins and make it a “we” thing. 3. Dedicate a Day to Take care of Yourself Sometimes one of the hardest things we can do is pause, rest, and take care of ourselves. It’s imperative to set aside a day in a week to rest and unwind. Take time to practice self-care. “Self-Care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health.” Although it’s a simple concept in theory, it’s something we very often overlook. Good self-care is key to improved mood and reduced anxiety. It’s also key to a good relationship with oneself and others. Self care is something that refuels us, rather than takes from us. Often times when we speak of self-care, people turn to think of it being selfish, but that isn’t true at all. Self-care is not only about considering our needs; it is rather about knowing what we need to do in order to take care of ourselves, being subsequently, able to take care of others as well. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup so it’s important that we take care of ourselves first, so we will be able to take care of others. As women in general, we do so much and sometimes forget to take care of ourselves, so I can’t emphasize self-care enough for women in ministry.

Become Magazine Winter 2020

How to Balance Ministry and Family (cont.) •Tips: •Self-care needs to be something you actively plan, rather than something that just happens. •I, for instance, exercise and eat nutritious healthy meals. Exercise is as good for our emotional health as it is for our physical health. Regular exercise can positively impact serotonin levels in your brain. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that gives you energy, boosts your mood and overall sense of well-being. •Do at least one relaxing activity every day, whether it’s taking a walk or spending 30 minutes unwinding. •Do at least one pleasurable activity every day. It could be enjoying a bubble bath. When we don’t rest or take care of ourselves, we are communicating to our family and God that we can accomplish everything in our strength. Pausing and taking a day off to take care of yourself is a faith statement that lets God know you trust Him with the fruit of your labor. 4. Set Limits and Boundaries In ministry, there is no such thing as “clock in and clock out.” It’s all of the time! But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t have downtime. I generally love to support others in their endeavors but I had to create margins and boundaries to protect my peace. I had to come to terms with the fact that I couldn’t support other ministries as much as I would like. I physically cannot attend every event including outings, birthdays, baby showers, etc. If I did, I would never have a day to myself, let alone enough money to put food on the table! Create boundaries within your schedule that are off-limits to others. Unforeseen circumstances happen in life whereby we may not always be able to avoid, in such situations exception can be made but it should be just that…the exception and not the norm. Actively planned family outings such as dinners, date nights, and active rest days should be honored. Ministry is hard work and can be challenging at times, so, if you and your family want to survive it then you have to be bold to say no to others during your rest days. Trust me, people and issues will always be there but you have this one life with your family, don’t sacrifice them on the altar of ministry. In conclusion, the ministry can be balanced with family which requires wisdom, knowledge and tactfulness as both thriving together brings joy to the Lord. 18

www.hollidaysweets.com

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Celebrate the Holidays Without Going Broke /TAMMY BURROUGH HOOKS

Finances

Traditionally, we are entering the most expensive time of the year. As the holiday season approaches, many people spend too much money on purchases and end up wondering where all the money went. This year think about ways you can still be a cheerful giver without breaking the bank. You can still be festive and show your love ones you care without maxing out your credit cards and over spending. Instead of getting all wrapped up in spending all your money, I will share five tips to help you bring the holiday cheer without feeling guilty about overextending your bank account. Prepare budget friendly meals and try alternative meal options. Turn on your internal budget regulator. Most people do not track every dollar they spend, but most of us do have an idea of what we can afford to spend. Turn your external budget regulator on by writing down your budget and keeping track of what you spent. Limit your spending to what you can safely afford to come out of your bank account. Try to avoid shopping using your credit card because you may potentially end up paying 3 times more in interest than what the item you purchased is worth. Fight the urge to use your credit card by sacrificing an item you would normally spend money on. Perhaps, you can sacrifice some non-essential expenses like buying expensive lattes or getting your nails and hair done in exchange for putting the money aside and saving it for a future purchase. If you know you are on a tight budget, do not feel obligated to buy a pricey gift when you know you cannot afford it. When it comes to cooking, plan out your meal before you go to the grocery store. During this unique time in history where unemployment is rising as well as the cost of food, you must be smarter about how you spend your hard-earned money. Usually the less ingredients you have, the less your meal will cost. Choose dishes to prepare that have less ingredients or include items on your menu that you already have at home in your cabinets. Instead of preparing the whole meal yourself, create a menu and have your guests select the dish or items they want to bring. This removes some of the stress of having most of the food prep on you. You could opt out on cooking that specialty dish that requires a lot of pricey ingredients and choose other alternatives that are still tasty but less expensive to prepare. Who says you must have the traditional meal? Prepare something that is non-traditional or give everyone the option of bringing their own personalized meal from a restaurant.

Celebrate the Holidays Without Going Broke Show others you care. If you find can goods on sale and you have extra, donate some of the can goods to someone in need or to a food bank. Stay connected to your love ones via phone or virtually. Because of social distancing and all the Covid 19 precautions which limit the number of people gathering, you can prepare smaller portions of meals because you are not feeding as many people. If you are planning larger meals, do not throw away the leftovers. Bag and freeze what you do not eat to use in future meals like soups and casseroles. Instead of traveling to see your family and friends and spending money on lodging, food, and gas, schedule a virtual zoom meeting. Because some people want to remain remote and not risk exposure to illness, you can schedule specific time slots with different groups of people to share your appetizers, main meal, drinks, or desserts. This way you do not miss your family traditions and you will not feel isolated and alone during the holidays. This is the perfect time to share with them your favorite memories and recipes as well as express how much you care about them. Avoid impulse shopping and comparison shop for the items you want. Start by searching online to see what stores are charging for the item you want. Look for coupon codes online or clip coupons to gain additional savings on items.We all have suffered from buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remorse where we regret overspending

Instead of buying a gift for someone

just because it was on sale or buying something, they will probably never even really use, try to get things that people can benefit them. For example, if you know someone likes to bake, buy them a utensil or dish that will make their job easier. If you know someone is having a challenging time finding supplies during the coronavirus pandemic, make them a small care package of essentials that includes masks, paper towels, toiletries, hand sanitizers and wipes. Most people would much rather get something that can use rather than something they will only pack away and collect dust. For those things that you are not going to use, re-gift it to someone else, re-purpose items, watch YouTube videos on how to make your own gifts using things you already have around the house or how to make bows to go on holiday wreaths. Remember, you do not have to buy gifts for everybody. Pull names and select the dollar amount to spend on the personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name you pulled. Spread the holiday cheer by creatively thinking of alternate ways to create gifts that are thoughtful but inexpensive. If your budget is already stretched to the limit, then just forego buying gifts all together. Instead, focus on spending some quality time with your love ones or just simply giving others a handwritten gift certificate for 1 night of free babysitting time or one good home cooked meal. If you are a good baker, make some homemade cookies or desserts. Additionally, think of ways you can assist them by volunteering to relieve a caregiver for a couple of hours or assisting them organize their closet, cabinets, or garage. If you are good with tools, you can provide services like changing out batteries in their smoke alarm, fixing a leaking sink or toilet, or even patching up holes in the walls or securing loose wood boards. Remember the real reason for the season is to celebrate the birth of Jesus and to spend time with family, friends, and loved ones. Although this is a season like none other, we have seen before, find ways to make this holiday season special. Learn to be grateful for things you do have and share with others who are in need. Consider some of these financial tips now so you can enjoy lasting positive effects later. Turn these baby steps of how to save money into long term steps that can move you in the right direction to a more secure financial future. The small decisions you make today, can have big impacts on your long-term financial goals. If you need help developing your budget, savings, or financial plans, or want to learn more tips about money and finances, subscribe to my weekly newsletter by contacting me at: Tammy Burroughs Hooks Division Leader Primerica Financial Services Toll free: 1-866-262-9366 Cell: 919-332-9209 Email: tburroughs.hjf93@primerica.com Website: https://www.primerica.com/tammyhooks

Janice is currently employed and has been working in the fine jewelry industry for over thirtyeight years. During her years in the jewelry industry, Janice has become a Registered Jeweler, Colored and Gemstone Specialist, and a professional and successful saleswoman. During her thirtyeight years, Janice has served in the compacity of management and has received enormous amounts of accolades over the years for her accomplishments. Janice has used this platform to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. Janice’s role model as a leader, her southern charm and wittiness, allows her to attract others to her. She believes in allowing the

Janice J. Gibbons

love of God to flow to others not only in word but also in deeds. Janice made the quality decision

Janice J. Gibbons was born in Savannah, Ga. She and her husband Pastor Larry Gibbons have been

in her earlier stages of life to receive Jesus as her Lord and

married for forty-one years Janice

Savior. Her energetic personality

is the mother of two daughters and

and love for the Lord keeps her

six grandchildren.

on the move while enjoying life,

They currently pastor The Agape

and spreading God’s plan of

Church of Jesus Christ and Larry

Salvation.

Gibbons Ministries, Inc. in the beautiful City of Savannah, GA. Their radio broadcast “The Voice of Faith”, is broadcasted every Sunday morning in Savannah and the surrounding areas.

Contributor Janice J. Gibbons

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Maximizing Your God-Given Gifts God has a purpose and plan for our lives. God knew before he formed you that the plan would be for you to prosper and give you hope for the future. No matter what obstacle may come across your path, God has given you the ability to hurdle over every one of them. Those God-given gifts or talents are stored up within each of us waiting for the time of manifestation. It is for us to reach deep down inside and pull them out. Now is the time for you to become all that God has planned for you! God’s word declares that we should give Him praise, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). The Father took great pleasure in making You! He knows what you are capable of with the gifts or talents within you. He formed every inward part of you. He knows the very strand of hair on your head. God loves us so much that even when you were in our mother’s womb, He protected you. We must seize every opportunity to read our bible and pray. God says for us to acknowledge him in all our ways and He will direct our path. With God’s word being our lamp, it will illuminate our path. If you just stay on that straight path and not get off it, you will see that your future is bright. If you just make a quality decision to make Jesus your Lord and Savior, you will Become everything that His word has promised you. It is time to maximize your God-given gifts or talents. There could be a gift or talent operating in your life that you are unaware of. You must pay attention to what seems to be minuscule, which could be your God-given gift or talent. Whatever that gift or talent may be, it brings enjoyment and fulfillment while doing it. You suddenly realize that you have been maximizing that gift with an unawareness. The word of God tells us that every good and perfect gift comes from God the Father. You are to use these gifts or talents to glorify God in heaven, not for you to boast about. When God made you, He strategically planned your life with a purpose! Everything you need is within you. You the ability to achieve, succeed, and develop your God-given gifts. Women, you have been given the gift of motherhood. Maximize that gift to love, nourish, and encourage others. Allow that gift to radiate, motivate, and inspire other women to Become all that God has for them! For you are blessed of the Lord! ~First Lady, Janice Gibbon~

Become Magazine Winter 2020

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Heb.13:16 ESV

~Bake Date~ What ingredients are you willing to try for the better you? coconut sugar almond flour spelt flour Monkfruit Try some new recipes and share them with us. gwincinfo@gmail.com

Giving to the Women's Shelter GWInC Clothed with Love

A couple years ago, on the 15th of the month of November, I had the opportunity to visit the living portion of the outreach shelterin which GWInChrist gives to the need of women. As a donor, I was invited to the open house. It was an amazing experience for me and every attending woman I had the opportunity to meet. Ever since I was introduced to the shelter (a few years prior) I was immediately connected, much like Mary visiting Elizabeth, my spirit was responsive. So, I begin to extend my hand, as a Proverbs 31/God's Woman. For me, it's "pure joy" just to do one simple thing as the Lord leads! As I mingled with other donors and the facilitators, I learned of other ways that could be a blessing such as sharing information about them and inviting others that may be interested in helping. There are many women on the streets and just not enough of the BOC building or occupying spaces to house them and sometimes just taking out time and sharing what you have that will help change lives. It was all in walking closer to God that I discovered where I can be His hands in the earth where he desires to use them. While visiting I thought of how much I love outreach, but now "it's time to do more of it." During a conversation with one of the facilitators talked about specific needs. PJ's was mentioned, what she said touch my heart. Right then I knew, I could facilitate this! If you want to help please do. We made it happen and made a trip before Christmas to deliver these gifts to the 22 women residents. We joined a local team to also help feed the women. We were so blessed as we had good fellowship and prayer. This year, 2020 changed a few things, but we did a drop off in September. Also, every September we start the Christmas Drive for PJ's Someone said, "if you want to keep Christ in Christmas, feed someone, provide a place to stay, clothe someone, visit the sick and imprisoned. Frankly, I agree! When Jesus came, he to helped our greatest need! Now we are to show the same compassion beyond seasonal. Jesus said, Matt.25:42-43 For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, I was naked and you did not clothe Me, I was sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;Ś The Question Becomes... What will you give? This year we donated cozy socks and a copy of my book with each set of PJ's for the Women residents. PJ's for women is a drive that you can be involved Jan-Dec. Feel free to contact us for details. (gwincinfo@gmail.com) We want to engage groups, individuals, and businesses.

We vision outreach beyond one shelter, one city, or state but even more. We were honored to have my mother involved, she gave, help pack the pink bags and delivery the PJ's. All the more to honor her here at BM . 27 Our thanks to all that support our efforts.

PRODUCTS WE LOVE 2021

What We learned from Esther of the Bible... 1. God can use any of us ordinary women/people. 2. Trusting God we can step out and face our fears. 3. Our past does not dictate our purpose or our future. 4. Strength comes from God not ourselves. 5. Loving others is beauty above any other. 6. Our lives have purpose and we will make an impact for good or not. 7. Wait patiently, patience is a virtue.

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...we can also learn in our stories.

Empower Your Life Join our Empowerment 2021 Read more Books Genesis-Revelations End of 2020 Challenge Before the year ends! Read The Book of Esther and Proverbs 31

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The Wardrobe Change Tinnika Ray

For many years, it has been and continues to be custom for people to change out their wardrobe based upon the seasons. Each season brings a new color scheme. Winter welcomes icy, yet cool colors; Spring brings out fresh vibrant colors; Summer brings soft, cool colors; Autumn allows warm, golden earth tones. This activity can cause emotions of excitement or lack thereof depending on the personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s view of the seasons. Simply put, clothing items are change based on the weather. Process of Changing Each change requires us to evaluate, separate and designate, and finally strategize. 1: Evaluate the items that we own or possess. 2: Separate and Designate, decide what to keep, donate or discard. 3: Strategize for maximum storage. 4: Follow Through, put your plan into action. Some items are in a trunk or tucked away for later use. Other items are packed up to donate. Then there are the items that are left out because they can be worn during any season; These items are staples that never get old. Items in the discard pile should be disposed of almost immediately to make sure that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end up being placed in the wrong pile. Finally schedule a day to drop off those items in good condition or have your local donation center pick them it. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Your Spiritual Trunk? What are you Wearing in this Season (Colossians 3:5-11)?

Tinnika Ray is a child of God, Mother, Educator, all summed up into Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Masterpiece. Her ultimate goal in life is pursue and live on purpose intentionally, by continuing to develop a relationship with Christ and the family of believers, sharing her story to encourage and strengthen others and allowing God to use her as He sees fit for the kingdom. Her greatest achievement is and continues to be working with youth and allowing them to experience the Love of Christ projected through her on a day to day basis. Photo Credits: Ariel and Amariah Ray

The Wardrobe Change C0NT.

So much goes into our earthly vessels that we fail to recognize the changes needed in our spiritual seasons. We all are conditioned with customs, beliefs, rituals, and routines that are aligned to the customs of this world. Don’t be fooled as children of God are merely visitors amongst the locals (John 17:16). We are so concerned with our physical wardrobes that we are carrying baggage from previous seasons into new seasons. Some of those things include, insecurities, childhood traumas, anger, fear, unforgiveness etc. We walk around with layers covering the emotions as if they are not really there. Some of us have tucked them away in our trucks hoping no one ever picks the lock that will cause us to relive the various experiences that we hold on to as protection mechanisms. Others donate the issues to family and friends as we try to unload the burdens that weigh us down also known as generational curses. The same steps that we take for our physical can be taken for our Spiritual Seasons. Evaluate your spiritual wardrobe (Colossians 3:5-11). If we are carrying bitterness, anger, unbelief or anything that is unlike God, it’s time for an exchange. What are you carrying from one season to another that God is trying to free you from?

Separate and designate, determine what characteristics are seasonal oppose to year-round. Finally ask God to reveal your character flaws (we all have them), ask him to create in you a clean heart, and finally do the work. Fast and pray as you strategize a plan of action, make sure that it’s contains both spiritual and practical ways to start your journey into your new season. Make a list of the Godly characteristics that are present (Keep), list the ungodly characteristics as God reveals them to you (discard), and finally create the list of characteristics that you want to replace the ones that you are discarding (exchange). What are you wearing in this season? As you begin to model your new wardrobe make sure to cover your body with the whole amour of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Just as you would not go out in public physically naked, you should never go out spiritually naked. Put on your Armor of God daily making sure to wash yourself daily from the impurities of this world such as anger, guilt, unforgiveness, etc. These items are not to be worn as undergarments under the Armor of our Lord and Savior. They can ruin your witness as they will seep through (Mark 2:22). ~ Tinnika Ray, Educator ~

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Self-Care Peppermint Essential Oil is an ideal choice for clearing the mind, refreshing your heart, and relaxing after a long day. Use in a bath, a diffuser, a room spray, or topically, with or without a carrier.* TIPS: Self-Care in Quarantine: 1. Read a Good Book by the fireplace with Sparkling Juice (organic) or Tea 2. Exercise 3. Take a spa relaxing bath 4. Humble yourself and prayer 5. Join an online women's group for encouragement and motivation. 6. Listen to some good inspirational 7. Christian Instrumental https://youtu.be/qEStT5wN4Wk one of my favorites 8. Learn to make a new craft for gifts or outreach. 9. Take a nap and get proper rest. 10. Find a cause you can support; like our Pajamas Drive or another outreach. 11. Journal 12. Take a nice scenic drive. GWInC

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This product support a healthy lifestyle. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary based on diet and exercise. We cannot and do not guarantee that you will attain a specific or particular result, and you accept the risk that results differ for each individual. Health, fitness, and nutrition success depends on each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s background, dedication, desire, and motivation.Always consult your healthcare professional before consuming any dietary supplement.

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This product support a healthy lifestyle. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary based on diet and exercise. We cannot and do not guarantee that you will attain a specific or particular result, and you accept the risk that results differ for each individual. Health, fitness, and nutrition success depends on each individual’s background, dedication, desire, and motivation. Always consult your healthcare professional before consuming any dietary supplement.

BeCome Magazine Submission Do you have a passion for people and reaching them through the written word with testimonies, poetry, Spirit Led Life Lessons, business tips, travel and etc.? Are you interested in growing others in different aspects of life keeping the principles of the Word of God? Our good news magazine is a publication created to be an ongoing voice in sharing the gospel at times and places we cannot be in the physical; however, we can make an impact daily in print. Article resources: Ministry, Submissions, Stories, Individuals: Share your testimonies, stories, and etc. Contributors: Are Continual w/Become Magazine We have Contributors and Submission Writers We accept Submissions: However, your submission does not guarantee publication. We reserve the right to decide. There are no payments for your submissions. All submission must be your original content. Your submission gives us rights use to any of our publications at any time including reprints, we do not own your publications. About the Writers: we will include your picture and a short bio. Submit the bio for your work. Photo: jpeg or png. Absolute "No" previously published submissions. Be a part of in our mission through supporting with Christian Business/sponsors and Ads. Join our outreach to Women: PJ's Drive, we distribute to women shelters of GWInChrist Clothed with Love's choosing. send to: gwincinfo@gmail.com Visit us: www.sharonholliday.com

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Stories

Part one: “So, let’s open our bible to Psalm 73:26 to finish our message today” is what Jasmine heard as her mother nudged her to wake up. It was Sunday which means church even though Jasmine didn’t see a point in going every week. “Now let’s pray out”.Jasmine felt relieved that it was over and now she could go home. They were walking to the car, she heard her mom and dad talking about how good service was, all she could focus on is getting home and calling her friends. Later that evening while Jasmine was on the phone scrolling on her social media but suddenly stopped when she saw something that caught her eye. She saw that her school county was shutting down the schools due to COVID19. In her head, she was excited, I mean who wouldn’t be if you were getting two weeks off from school? So, she ran to show her mom to make sure the information she saw was correct. She watched her mom staring at the news. “Lord, I pray these

Amariah Ray Aspiring Writer BIO: I’m 15 years old and always had the passion to write stories. I was born in North Carolina. Some of my family loves writing and I think that's where I get my love for it. I have 5 other siblings. I live in Georgia. I enjoy singing and dancing, but mostly writing. I love to write any chance I get.

families are alright” is what her mom said. Jasmine was surprised her mom wasn’t happy that she would be off too since she’s a teacher, but at the moment she didn’t care. All she knew was she would have two weeks away from her school and teachers. She wondered if she would still have to go to church. As Jasmine was falling asleep, she thought about what she would do on her time off.

Maybe have a sleepover with

her friends, babysit her nephews, or just stay at home and find something to do by herself. Read more: Spring Issue

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Thanks to our Contributing Writers Financial contribution to the work of the mission of publications Thanks to you the reader. Please continue to share and join our media platforms. @Become.Magazine SharonHolliday.com Facebook God's Woman in Christ Thanks to our aspiring writers and photographers. Thanks for all submissions at: gwincinfo@gmail.com

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH FEBRUARY

Black History African American Heritage is a celebration of lives to me. So many people have lived and contributed in some way to our lives today, that a reason to give thanks and remember. This year coming 2021 many celebration are being planned by virtual events due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, but we encourage putting a plan in order to celebrate and share the history of African American heritage. As Christians, we know when we unite with Christ we are brought into our spiritual heritage that unites as one body in Christ. We can embrace them both but live according to the principleof the Word of God that enables us to love all ethic backgrounds.Black History Month helps us all better understand U.S. history and our need for genuine love and equality at all levels. * SDH Share your city events: gwincinfo@gmail.com Subject BlackHistory/your state and city

FAMILY SPIRITUAL RESPONSIBILITY STARTS IN THE HOME LOVE IS A BIBLICAL LIFESTYLE Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 And, ye fathers provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Ephesians6:4

Family Time

LISTEN, Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all all your soul, and all your strength. These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." Deut.6:4-9

BECOME Spring is on the way...

Empower Your Life Join our Empowerment 2021 Read more Books Genesis -Revelations Weekly reading schedule posted on our facebook group and page God's Woman God's Woman-Sistah Cafe