Serving from Coast to Coast
Grace His
June 2019
Kitchener, Ontario
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Table of Contents
His Grace, June 2019
"With God all things are possible" Matthew 19:26
Poetry Page.........................................................................Page 3 Publisher's Corner...............................................................Pages 4, 5 CD in Review......................................................................Page 6 Prayer Page.........................................................................Page 7 Athletes for Christ...............................................................Page 9 Racing with Christ..............................................................Page 11 Walking with Jesus.............................................................Page 12, 13 In Concert............................................................................Page 14 Recipe Page.........................................................................Page 15 Featured Artist.....................................................................Page 17 Bible Study.........................................................................Page 18, 19 Book in Review...................................................................Page 21 Movie in Review.................................................................Page 22
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Poetry Page...
His Grace, June 2019
Joy and Peace
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Life can be unpleasant, it can be heartbreaking; Yet it is beautiful and so very amazing. God tells us to ask when anxiety is great, For the Spirit of Peace; our joy will be complete. Commanded to be glad for what Christ has done for us, We are to shout for joy in an act of obedience. Without trials, tribulations and without wretchedness, We don't build character; we lack perseverance. These things bring hope which in turn creates joy; A gift from above that evil cannot destroy. We will sing and rejoice when the Lord rescues us; Sorrow will flee; we'll be overtaken with gladness. Embrace God’s peace; share the truth of His Word; Be a beacon of light in this dark, needy world. Be joyful in hope, be patient in affliction, Be constant in prayer; focus on your redemption. Read: (Romans 15:13)
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Publisher's Corner...
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His Grace, June 2019
Publisher: Rob Wood
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Joy
very time I go out shopping, walking or just heading out for a drive, I can’t help but notice the downward looking people out there. When you look at their faces or into their eyes, you don’t see joy; you see pain. If you smile at them, you can almost hear them saying, "What are you looking at?” or, “Why are you smiling? What is there to be smiling about?" or even, "What is there to be so happy about?" When I see this, it always grieves my soul. I often wonder what has happened in their lives that have brought them down so low that they can't even muster up a smile. What has happened to them that they have lost their joy? There are so many things we can do to prevent losing our joy. We can keep our minds clear and filled with good thoughts that make us happy; thoughts of God and His love for us and
Fruits of the Spirit:
what He continues to do for all of us every day. John 10:10 says, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." Another way to find joy in our hearts is to find someone we know or someone new in our lives and help them out, to be a blessing to someone in need. For when we give freely, we not only meet the needs of those people that are around us, but we also experience all the joy that God has in store for us. By helping other people, we start to forget our own problems that may have robbed us of our joy earlier. We start to see that maybe, things in our lives are not as hard as we first thought and we can start to see how God has really blessed our lives. Now not only are you starting to grab back your joy that you lost earlier, but now you’re helping someone else find theirs as well. Philippians 2:4 says, "Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." It is very important that we know the difference between being happy and experiencing joy. Happiness is an emotion from which we experience feelings that range from fulfillment and satisfaction to delight and pleasure, whereas joy is much stronger. Christian joy is a great feeling deep in
your soul which is produced by the Holy Spirit, as He causes us to see the beauty of Jesus in the word. Philippians 3:1 says, “Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe." How can we rejoice in the Lord if we are not seeing things properly about the Lord that would cause joy to fill our hearts? John 16:14 says, "He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.” This means that the Holy Spirit will open the eyes of our hearts to see all the beauty of Jesus. When we see Jesus in all He is doing for us, for all that He is, our hearts will then feel loving joy towards Jesus. One thing I like to point out, as many know, is that satan is always around; he doesn't want us to be happy or feel any joy. It's so important that we don't let him steal our joy; we must guard against him at all times. We must put on the armor of God to protect ourselves from him at all times. Ephesians 6:11 says, "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." So remember always, that "…Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning." (Psalms 30:5). This is encouragement we all can use; thank you God for such a beautiful promise.
Publisher's Corner...
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Peace
hat is your idea of peace? Do you have a quiet spot somewhere, a spot where you can sit and relax? I have two; first, I love sitting outside with a cup of coffee relaxing watching the birds, squirrels and other wildlife that comes on the property, just enjoying a beautiful sunny day. Second, where I work inside, there is a big window by the computer. It is so relaxing and peaceful to just work there and glance out the window and look at nature, God's beautiful work. This is a time of peace and I get myself all rested and recharged here every day. Peace in the New Testament is founded on righteousness and justice. Christians have been called to do Jesus’ work and to share it with everyone. This can be somewhat challenging at times but brings harmony between people and God by spreading the gospel to everyone, everywhere. Let’s look at the words ‘gospel of peace’; the word "gospel" means "good news", which refers to the sacrifice that Jesus made for all of us, so that, we all can be saved if we go to Him, repent and have a personal relationship with Him. As a result, this brings us Christians peace; a peace that is deep in our hearts. As Christians, we are all called to go out and share
His Grace, June 2019
Fruits of the Spirit
the good news of Jesus with everyone. Having ourselves fitted with the word of God and the gospel of peace allows us all the power we need to be successful in bringing people to Him. John 14:27 says, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." God had a plan and He took action in pursuing peace with us by sending Jesus to us. Jesus lived the perfect life. He paid for our sins on the cross, for all who trust Him. Hebrews 4:15 says, "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." His resurrection guaranteed our salvation before God. Romans 4:25 says, "who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification." Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 says, "For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder, And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Jesus gives us peace with God. That is why the message in Jesus’ name is called the gospel of peace. Ephesians 6:15 says, "And having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of
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peace." Peace with God has our conscience cleared of the heaviness of guilt. Shame that had tormented us is gone, as Jesus took it all upon Himself. 1 Peter 2:24 says, "who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness-by whose stripes you were healed." Peace with God also allows the Christian to live without fear of death and to know they will spend eternity with Jesus.
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CD in Review...
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His Grace, June 2019
atthew West is well known for the sharing of God's message, His Word through his music. Matthew sold more than 1.6 million albums and he has been rewarded over several years with four Grammy nominations, Dove Awards, Billboard Music Award, and K-LOVE Fan Award, to name a few achievements. This is an album that Matthew reveals as his most personal as of yet. All In features 14 truly authentic and moving songs. Over the past few years, Matthew's songs have ignited many communications between him and his fans, which brings us to this album. Matthew decided to use all of their stories as well as some of his own to give those listening inspiration through these songs. Matthew reveals to us that John 10:10 is his personal foundation, not only with the All In album, but also with his life. Jesus tells us in this scripture of John 10:10, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." When I listened to All In, it quickly became clear that Matthew's and also his listeners’ stories provided an amazing description that normally shapes his music. Combined with Matthew's great vocals, All In is a success for him. The album starts with the title
Matthew West All In...
song, "All In" which was an instant hit song for Matthew. This song describes Matthew's feelings of completely surrendering his life to God with no holding back. "All In" is followed by "Broken Things". This song was released earlier and many fans may remember it. Matthew's words in this song shares hope through the truth that there isn't anyone out there that is unworthy for God to use for His kingdom. Matthew gets personal with this album, especially with "The Sound of a Life Changing". The lyrics start by revealing an experience Matthew had when he was an up and coming musician in college during a Steven Chapman concert. As Matthew was in the audience listening to Steven sing, he felt his soul ignite. That moment, he realized God's plan for his life. Matthew invited Steven to participate on the song. In "Something Greater", Matthew considers the differences from his
plans. He planned on moving to Nashville with the hopes of signing a record deal but God had a different journey planned out for him. This included a family and more than he could have ever imagined. One thing I really enjoy about Matthew's songs is the way he speaks to the heart with his music and at the same time praise God through his songs. Matthew's album is a way for him to tell all of his and his fans’ stories in mighty ways. For the fans who are looking for encouragement and strength, they will find it in the songs "Power Love Sound Mind" and "Never Give Up." This is such a good album; I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14
All In...
"All In" "Broken Things" "Mercy is a Song" "Amen" "The Sound of a Life Changing" "Something Greater" "Jesus & You" "The Beautiful Things We Miss" "1 Song" "Power Love Sound Mind" "Never Ever Give Up" "Dream Again" "Becoming Me" (feat. Lulu West) "You Are Known"
His Grace, June 2019
Prayer Page...
Joy and Peace
Dear Father, Your mercy brings hope to my suffering. Your wisdom brings clarity to my confusion. Your stillness brings gentleness to my anger. Your joy brings contentment to my striving. Your patience brings calmness to my panic. Your peace brings stillness to my turmoil. In You, I find strength for my journey. For all of Your blessings, I thank you, Jesus.
Amen
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His Grace, June 2019
HOME•RULES Always be honest PROVERBS 12:22
Count your blessings PSALMS 34:1-3
Bear each others' burdens GALATIANS 6:2
Forgive and forget MICAH 7:18
Be kind and tender hearted EPHESIANS 4:32
Comfort one another 1 THESSALONIANS 4:18
Keep your promises ROMANS 4:21
Be proud of each other ACTS 20:35
Be true to each other REVELATIONS 15:3
Look after each other DEUTERONOMY 15:11
Treat each other like you treat your friends MATTHEW 7:12
Love One Another deeply from the heart 1 PETER 5:22
Athletes for Christ...
His Grace, June 2019
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Kawhi Leonard Kawhi the Humble Basketball Star... K
awhi Leonard is currently one of the hottest basketball stars. The 6'7", 230 pound Raptor scores an average of 35 points per game. He helped the Toronto Raptors win the 2019 NBA championship by beating the Golden State Warriors in six games. Last year was a hard year for Kawhi, being injured and enduring a lot of pain in the process. Kawhi prayed every day and through his prayers and his faith, God healed him and made him healthy and strong to play again. Kawhi Anthony Leonard was born in 1991 in Los Angeles. Out of five siblings, four of which are sisters, he is the youngest child. Kawhi’s parents divorced and he lived with his dad, Mark Leonard, who was killed when he was shot at his carwash business in 2008. Kawhi was just 16 years old.
It was at this point in his life when Kawhi gave his life and heart to Jesus. Kawhi doesn't talk much to the media and stays off social media as well to keep his private life unknown. In 2011-2018, Kawhi played for the San Antonio Spurs. He was given a $93 million dollar contract; the way he acts still
today, you wouldn't know he had that contract; he is a very humble person. He bought a 2008 Chev Malibu at the time to get around. Kawhi spends his summers in a two-bedroom apartment in San Diego, where he now drives a Chev Tahoe for his main ride. Kawhi isn't motivated by the big contracts or what comes with it all; he just wants to be a great player. At times, we have all seen players get the big contract and they change; they’re not the same player. Kawhi doesn't want to be that player; he wants to continue to play hard and be the best player he can be, and stay healthy. When God is on our side, all things are possible. Whether Kawhi signs a new contract or he leaves, we thank him for being that humble player who played hard and brought Toronto their first NBA championship.
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Grace His Grace, June 2019
His
New stories every month! Interesting Christian topics, Great Movie, CD and Book reviews! Get your FREE copy of His Grace magazine today! Call 905-380-4489 wood.publications.2014@gmail.com or check out our magazine on-line @ www.issuu.com/His-Grace
Racing with Christ...
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His Grace, June 2019
Dale Jarrett Raised in a Christian Home...
ale Jarrett grew up in a Christian home. His parents always made sure that his siblings and he were in church every Sunday, but as Dale grew up and got into other things like racing, he got side-tracked and he didn't live his life the way he should have. But when Dale started driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, everything changed for him. Joe Gibbs is a good man who is very strong in the Lord and all of Joe's influences really helped Dale get his life back on track where it should have been with the Lord. Dale and his wife dedicate their lives to Jesus. Their children are growing up in a Christian home and they have their Christian friends to hang out with. There are so many different ways to live your life, but there is only one right way to live life and that is to live in the presence of our
Lord Jesus. Dale's faith in Jesus has gotten him through so much, including the loss of Dale Earnhardt. He believes Dale Earnhardt is in a much better place. We are all going to that same better place when we know and have a loving personal relationship with Jesus and have Him in our lives. It's the faith that gets Dale through things in his life, especially knowing that Dale Earnhardt had a wonderful
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life and that he believed in Jesus. Dale Jarrett won 32 races, had 260 top tens and had 16 poles in his career. Dale was a Winston Cup Champion in 1999. He was also a three-time Daytona 500 winner (in 1993, 1996, and 2000). He also won the Brickyard 400 (1996, 1999). Dale's father, Ned Jarrett, is a two-time Grand National Champion. In 2007, Dale joined the ESPN/ ABC broadcasting team as an announcer in select nationwide series races. In 2008, after Dale retired from racing following the 2008 Food City 500, he joined ESPN permanently as their lead racing analyst, replacing Rusty Wallace. In 2015, Dale became part of the NBC sports broadcasting crew for NASCAR races. Dale was inducted into the 2014 class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Walking With Jesus...
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His Grace, June 2019
The Angel of the Lord The Pre-existence of Jesus Christ...
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s we continue with our ‘Walking with Jesus’ article, we are going to look at a few scriptures of when the Angel of the Lord appears in the Old Testament. There are at least eleven different times that the Angel of the Lord is mentioned here. Let’s take a deeper look into some of these scriptures this month, beginning with the visit to Hagar in Genesis 16:814. When God had promised a child to Abram and Sarai, they were well past the age of having a child. Abram believed the word of God and His promise, whereas Sarai didn't. She always doubted because she was past her childbearing days. Sarai couldn't wait as the promise from God wasn't coming as fast as she thought it should. So she said to Abram that maybe it's God's will that they have a child with her maid, Hagar. Abram was reluctant to do this because he really believed in the promise that God had given him. But he did agree to it, and after their time together, Hagar became pregnant. Sarai became jealous and started mistreating Hagar. So Hagar left and went into the desert. The Angel of the Lord found Hagar by a spring in the desert. ‘And He said, "Hagar, Sarai's maid, where have you come from, and where are you going?" She said, "I am
fleeing from the presence of my mistress Sarai." The Angel of the Lord said to her, "Return to your mistress, and submit yourself under her hand." Then the Angel of the Lord said to her, "I will multiply your descendants exceedingly, so that they shall not be counted for multitude." And the Angel of the Lord said to her, "Behold, you are with child, And you shall bear a son. You shall call his name Ishmael, Because the Lord has heard your affliction. He shall be a wild man; His hand shall be against every man; And every man’s hand against him. And he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren." Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, You-Are-the-GodWho-Sees; for she said, "Have I also here seen Him who sees me?” Therefore the well was called Beer Lahai Roi; observe, it is between Kadesh and Bered.’(Genesis 16:8-14). The Angel showed Hagar the same kindness and comfort that Jesus would show. When Abram was ninety nine years old, the Lord came to him and made a covenant between Him and Abram. He also changed Abram’s name to Abraham ("father of Multitudes") and changed Sarai's name to Sarah (Princess). Both Abram and Sarai's names honored pagan deities, so God changed both of
their names because they would become father and mother of nations including the Hebrew people and it would signify their relationship with the one true God. Another appearance of the Angel of the Lord was when Abraham was sitting in the tent door. He was resting on a hot day when he opened his eyes and there were three men standing by him. When he saw them, he got up and went over to them. One of the three men was the Lord Jesus, the other two were angels. This is one of many manifestations of Jesus in the Old Testament before His incarnation. Abraham, recognizing the One as the Lord, bowed down and asked if He would stay and allow him to wash His feet and have some bread as they rested under the tree. While they were waiting, they asked where his wife, Sarah, was. Abraham replied, "Here in the Tent." The Lord told Abraham that he would have a son but Sarah being by the tent door and hearing all the conversation, laughed as she was past her childbearing days. This announcement, even in her strong faith, challenged her and she laughed within herself. When the Angel of the Lord asked her why she laughed, she denied it, but He knew she doubted.
Walking With Jesus...
His Grace, June 2019
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The disciple John The Importance of Love and Obedience... J ohn was one of the leading members of Jesus' original twelve disciples. He had a very close personal relationship with Jesus. John and his brother James, sons of Zebedee, a prosperous Galilean fisherman, both left their fishing business when Jesus called them to follow Him in fulltime discipleship. Matthew 4:1822 says, 'And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." They immediately left their nets and followed Him. Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them and immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.' John, James and Peter were always at some of the most important moments of Jesus’ ministry and they saw many of the Lord's early miracles and His teachings. They witnessed the Lord's power over death when they saw the raising of Jairus's daughter. Matthew 9:18-26 says, ‘While He spoke these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, "My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live." So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did
His disciples. And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. For she said to herself, "If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well." But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, "Be of good cheer daughter; your faith has made you well." And the woman was made well from that hour. When Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the flute players and noisy crowd wailing, He said to them, " Make room for the girl is not dead but sleeping." And they ridiculed Him. But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand and the girl arose. And the report of this went out into all the land.’ They saw His final prophecy about the last days on the Mount of Olives. Zechariah 14:4 says, "And in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, Which faces Jerusalem on the east. And the Mount of Olives shall be split in two, From east to west, Making a very large valley; Half of the mountain shall move toward the north And half of it toward the south." They were right beside Jesus when He began His great work of Atonement. But the most important thing was that John was a powerful witness of the divinity of his Savior and a friend.
John became known as the "Disciple whom Jesus loved". John was there at the Last Supper, at the Crucifixion, at the empty tomb and with Jesus at His final Sea of Galilee appearance. The Epistles of John talk about the importance of love and obedience, and everything that Jesus taught them in John's account of the Last Supper. The book of 1 John talks about his witness of Jesus. 1 John:1 says, "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of Life..." John stresses his powerful, personal and physical witness of Jesus, who was the Word of God, who was born God in the flesh. In the books of 2 John and 3 John, he continues to stress how important love and obedience is and all the dangers around us, from false teachers to those who reject proper church authority. Revelation is a symbolic book; it was intended to help and reassure Christians who would suffer persecution or trials in every age, while at the same time Revelation reveals the role of Jesus throughout history. Like John, we are also beloved disciples. Our call is to share Jesus with others, telling people of the truth and fulfilling whatever Jesus asks us to do, and continue doing it until Jesus comes back again.
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His Grace, June 2019
In Concert with...
Matthew West Matthew West Tour 2019...
for his music fans everywhere for them to enjoy. Whether he is among family, friends or fans, Matthew continues to move forward as a musician of God in today's Christian music industry. Don't miss out, as this will be a tour everyone will remember. Although there are no Canadian stops on this tour, four are close to the Canadian border: July 30: Columbus, Ohio Ohio State Fair
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atthew West brings the beautiful gospel sounds on stage in his latest tour and all glory to God with worshipping and fun that comes along with Matthew's concerts. The beautiful melodies and his great sound becomes a wonderful combination of joy and passion for our Lord Jesus as he still plays his rock and pop style
August 3: Lakeview, Ohio
October 4: Cincinnati, Ohio Tri County Assembly
October 5: Detroit, Michigan Brightmoor Christian Church
Matthew West is a fourtime GRAMMY nominee, a multiple ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year Winner, a Dove Award recipient and was awarded an American
Music Award (2013). Matthew also has won a K-LOVE Fan Award (2016), a Billboard Music Award (Top Christian Artist, 2014) and was also named Billboard's Hot Christian Songwriter of the Year (2016). Matthew is joined by Tenth Avenue North and Matt Maher, to name a few.
Recipe...
His Grace, June 2019
Teriyaki Chicken
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• 1 ½ lbs Chicken Legs • 2 tbsp Olive Oil • ¼ c light Soy Sauce • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar • 2 – 4 tbsp Brown Sugar, to taste • 3 green onions, sliced • ½ tsp ground Ginger • 1 tsp Garlic Powder • Place chicken thighs in 9 x 13 baking dish • Combine remaining ingredients; pour over chicken • Cover and marinate in frig for at least 4 hours • Preheat oven to 350 deg. • Bake uncovered in marinade for 45 min - 1 hr., turning occasionally
Serves 4
Ecclesiastes 9:7 NKJV ““Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already accepted your works.”
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His Grace, June 2019
From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD's name is to be praised.
Psalm 113:3
Featured Artist...
His Grace, June 2019
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Lauren Daigle Award Winning Singer from Louisiana...
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auren Daigle, a contemporary Christian music singer, was born on September 9, 1991 in Lafayette, Louisiana. Lauren signed a record label with Centricity Music and in 2015 released her first album, How Can It Be. The album reached No.1 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums Chart; it also has been certified Platinum by RIAA which produced three No. 1 singles on the Billboard Christian Airplay Chart. The three singles are "First", "Trust In You", "O' Lord". Lauren's third album, Look Up Child, was released in September 2018 and strengthened by the popular pop crossover single, "You Say". The album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 Chart which became the highest charting Christian album by any woman over the past 20 years and No.1 on
the Top Christian Albums Chart. It sold 115,000 albums equal units in the first week. The album’s first single, "You Say" peaked at No.29 on the Billboard 100 chart and the single also broke the record for the number of weeks at No.1 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs Chart for any independent singer. This album and the single has earned Lauren two Grammy Awards.
Also adding to the two Grammy Awards, Lauren has won seven GMA Dove Awards, three Billboards Music Awards, two American Music Awards as well as four No.1 singles on both the Billboard Christian Airplay and Hot Christian Songs Chart. Lauren, while growing up in Louisiana, was influenced by Zydeco, Blues and Cajun music. Lauren's mom would call her house "the Music Box", as Lauren was always running around singing. Lauren never considered a music career until she became sick with infectious mononucleosis. She says it was the best thing that ever happened to her. In November 2012, Lauren dropped out of her junior year at LSU and moved to Nashville, Tennessee. Since becoming a Christian music star in 2015, Lauren’s popularity has transcended the Christian market.
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His Grace, June 2019
Bible Study...
Psalm 23
Not just a Psalm for Funerals!
et's take a close look at Psalm 23, "The Lord is my Shepherd". Psalm 23 is about a Relationship, our Supply, Rest, Refreshment, Healing, Guidance, Purpose, Testing, Protection, Faithfulness, Discipline, Hope, Consecration, Abundance, Blessing, Security and Eternity. So let’s break down the meaning behind one of my favorite Psalms. "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the path of righteousness For His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever." The Lord is my Shepherd… That's a Relationship! That is what Christianity is…a relationship with Jesus; it's not a religion. Jesus died on the cross and took our sins upon Himself and rose on the third day. He did this to make a way for us to
enter Heaven and be with Him. While we are here on earth, we must repent of our sins, pray continuously, and truly get to know Him with all of our hearts. By doing this, we will have a beautiful relationship with Him. John 3:3 says, “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’" I shall not want… That's Supply!
It's a way of saying, I will not need anything. That's because God always takes care of us in our need. Philippians 4:19 says, "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." He makes me lie down in green pastures…That's Rest! All we have to do is go to Jesus in prayer and ask Him for help, no matter what it is. After you pray and ask for His help, you can just go to sleep, think no more about it and God will do all the work for us.
Matthew 11:28 says, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." He leads me beside the still waters…That's Refreshment! Here we are not only thanking God for providing us with nice, refreshing water to drink and for quenching our thirst, but for refreshing our soul as well. We are also thanking Him for keeping the waters still and calm in our lives. Philemon 1:20 says, "Yes brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Lord." He restores my soul… That's Healing! Only God can restore our souls. He can heal us from depression, addictions, diseases, trials and temptations, from tiredness and discouragement. He loves us and cares for us. Isaiah 38:16 says, "O Lord, by these things men live; And in all these things is the life of my spirit; So You will restore me and make me live." He leads me in the path of righteousness…That's Guidance! This verse speaks of guidance where we travel specific paths in our lives. After all, a shepherd doesn't send his sheep off in different directions. He walks ahead of them and guides them. Just as God guides us to where He wants us in life, we need
Bible Study...
His Grace, June 2019
Psalm 23...Continued
Not just a Psalm for Funerals!
need to obey and follow Him. John 10:3 says, "To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out." For His name sake…That's Purpose! There is no other name; it's all done for the glory of God. He gets all the credit, not that He needs it, but because He deserves it. God doesn't do things for our sake, but for His sake. Ezekiel 20:44 says, "’Then you shall know that I am the Lord, when I have dealt with you for My name's sake, not according to your wicked ways nor according to your corrupt doings, O house of Israel,’ says the Lord God." Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death… That's Testing! This verse is not only about spiritual but also about everyday life, whether it's problems financially, medically or whatever the case may be, trust in God as He is always with us to help us, no matter what we are going through. James 1:2-3 says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff , they comfort me… That's Protection! Faithfulness! Discipline! We should never give into our fears of any kind, but we should have the confidence
to rely on the word of God and His promises to get us through anything. After all, God's grace is sufficient for us, and He will always protect us and be there with us. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over…That's Hope! Consecration! Abundance! Once we have come through all the trials, we are restored in front of our enemies. They see all that the Lord has done for us. Our enemies’ mouths may deny it, but no matter how hard they try, their hearts cannot. As all of the enemies of Israel knew that the one true God was responsible for the Israelites’ victories, all of our enemies will never prevail against us when our God is with us. Our Lord is far greater than any of our enemies. We are far apart from them; we belong to the Lord. We submit our lives to Him and allow Him to work in our lives. 1 Timothy 5:8 says, "But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those for his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever… That's Blessing! Security! Eternity! Salvation with Jesus
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means we will have eternal security. For the rest of our lives, we will always be thankful and blessed by our decision to accept Jesus into our lives. God provides all of our needs, no matter what they are, and He shows us mercy when we fall. God's love for us brings comfort, hope and encouragement. God's word blesses us and gives us wisdom to guide us on our Christian walk with Him. We couldn't ask for or need anything more when we have Jesus in our lives. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Also, John 6:4447 says, "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me. Not that anyone has seen the Father, except He who is from God; He has seen the Father. Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.” and Matthew 7:13-14 says, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it."
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His Grace, June 2019
Holy, Holy, Holy Is the Lord ALmighty the whole earth is full of His Glory
Isaiah 6:3
Book in Review...
His Grace, June 2019
When God Intervenes
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A story of Faith, Hope and the Power of Prayer
By: Dabney Hedegard
T
his is a very encouraging book to read when you need comforting during the difficult times you find yourself in. I recommend this book; it is uplifting and shows us the amazing things that can happen through the power of prayer. The time that Dabney and her husband, Jason, was thinking that their marriage was ending, they had both pretty upsetting and happy news. When Dabney was six weeks pregnant, her doctors found an eight-inch tumor that was in her chest. Dabney was diagnosed with cancer and she decided not to have the treatment until she was further along in the pregnancy. This is the start of a ten-year fight against her cancer and other health problems such as cardiomyopathy, mitral valve prolapse, pulmonary embolism, acute pneumonia, kidney failure, respiratory failure and heart failure. There is so much pain and a lot of hope all stirred together. This is Dabney's story of a woman who wouldn't give up and she chose to grow closer to God through all of her pain. So did her husband Jason, even with all the challenging circumstances that was in right in front of them both. This book is Dabney's story where she struggled with life threatening moments and
also her personal struggles with financial problems, infertility, no house, adoption, long stays at the hospital and social rejection. It was a very difficult time for her and her husband. In each instance, Dabney had less than a 30 percent chance of survival. Twice, the doctors had to tell her husband, Jason that, "She will not make it through the night." But every time the doctors had given up hope on Dabney, God intervened. God miraculously rescued Dabney from death. The way God intervened in Dabney's life is amazing. When she changed from being a woman who had to be in total control of her life and everything else, and
looked for people's approval, to completely surrendering to God, she found spiritual freedom and everything started to change for her. After all, there really isn't anything we can do to change our own circumstances; God is the only one who can do that for us. This makes life so much better for us when God takes over. We also see what Jason goes through. His relationship with God also grew stronger. Jason's care and his love for Dabney and their children reflect a real love that reminds us of God's love for all of us; it's a beautiful feeling. This book shows us what is needed in today's society. When we have a God-centered marriage, we, as husband and wife, become closer and will have a strong love for each other. We become closer to one another when we become closer to God. This book will touch you emotionally and will tug at your heart. Dabney's amazing story is a fast pace, very emotional roller coaster that, at times, will put tears in your eyes and then a smile on your face. Dabney's amazing journey is a testament to the unquestionable power of prayer. It shows us all what can happen when God intervenes in our lives; it truly is a blessing. He is always there for us; He is our protector and our loving God.
Movie in Review...
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His Grace, June 2019
Champion “Emotionally Powerful�
C
hampion is a beautifully made drama about a racecar driver who gets very angry during the race and ends up killing another driver. He now must confront the driver's father and his own daughter. Can he overcome all of his problems and become a real champion?
Shawn is very arrogant; he never listens. A winning dirt track racecar champion driver, Shawn is challenged by a new rookie driver, Ray Reed. He gets so angry that all he focuses on is trying to teach the rookie a lesson. So much so, that on the last lap of the race, he bumps him. But Ray loses control of the car; it rolls several times
and he is killed. After the accident, Shawn had to go on pain pills but unfortunately became addicted to them. He also lost his ride; the owner of the race team ended up firing Shawn. From there, he went into a depression and from the pain pills and forgetting to pick up his daughter, Gracie, he ends up losing custody of her. Ray's father had just reconnected with his son. Both Ray and his father had a strained relationship for years but Ray had recently become a Christian and forgave his father. Ray invited his father, Jack, to come out and watch him in a race. While Jack is there at the race, he meets a wonderful young girl named Gracie, who just happens to be Shawn's daughter, watching and enjoying the race. When Ray dies, Jack becomes bitter and hates Shawn. He doesn't want anything to do with him. The hate starts to consume him but the heart of Ray's race team, Logan, who is a Christian Pastor, tries to reach out to Jack. Eventually, Logan gets Jack to hire Shawn when Jack is trying to sell a cabin that needs fixing. When Jack
decides to try to help Shawn, he sets him up with someone for a full time job so he can get back on his feet again, but Shawn fails the drug test and loses the job. The movie Champion considers what makes a real winner. It deals with the problems that fathers and their children go through, the guilt that people carry, all of the trials and tribulations of life and the need for forgiveness. The lead actors are good; the cinematography is very good. This movie is well done and the ending will make you emotional in a beautiful way. Champion has strong, inspiring Christian values. The message of forgiveness is very strong in this movie; it's hard to hold back the tears. I especially recommend this movie for those who have lost someone or struggle with forgiveness. This movie shows us how much better life is when we forgive. Starring: Andrew Cheney, Gary Graham, Faith Renee Kennedy, Cameron Arnot, Robert Amaya, Kera O'Bryon, Isaiah Stratton, Collin Alexander Brown, Ty Hunter. Director: Judd Brannon.
Producers: Judd Brannon, Steve Hyland. Champion: is available on Blue ray and DVD now. Until next time, God bless you all, from everyone here at His Grace.
His Grace, June 2019
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If you would like to share your Christian Testimonal,
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Testimonials...
His Grace, July 2018
Your Journey to God
Celia Deegan's Story "Help me." These two words burst out of the desperate heart of a four year old child and became the most powerful prayer I ever prayed. A fog has claimed most of the details surrounding the event itself, but certain things have remained perfectly clear involving my first real encounter with the presence of God. I imagined nothing. The presence I felt that night is the same now and as real to me today at age 51 as it was 47 years ago. Mine was a bad childhood from the very start. I was unplanned and unwanted pregnancy and my mother's opinion of me didn't change the day I was born. What I recall most about the first four years of my life is mostly just a complete absence of love and the acute awareness that my mother hated me. I was afraid of her. I was afraid to talk to her and I was most certainly afraid of the way she talked to me. I spent most of my time wishing that it was bedtime. At least there alone in the darkness and under my blankets, I felt safe. And sometimes, bedtime came earlier than usual and without supper. I never complained. A four year old heart can carry the heavy weight of pain without complaining as a learned coping mechanism, but there were times when I couldn't hold back the tears nor deny the desperation of living
in a cold climate of hostility. I am sure that we are born with the ability to survive anything and I am also sure that the awareness of being hated is absolutely heartbreaking for any child. I'm not sure that it was an actual panic attack but I am sure of one particular night when the ache inside my chest left me gasping for breath. I felt like I was going in and out of consciousness. The little I knew about life at that point left me with the impression that it was nothing I wanted to pursue. This may have been the closest I ever really came to giving up completely before the panic struck. Somewhere in there, as I struggled to breathe, I coughed out two simple words: "Help me..." I choked and I trembled and my little fists were tightly clenched around my blankets. Suddenly, in that moment, an incomprehensible presence of peace and love began to surround me. I began to breathe. The tears stopped. My heart rate slowed as a sweet sense of relaxation came over me. I began to smile, which is something I don't ever remember doing a lot of before that moment. I felt a profound sense of comfort and warmth wash over me and it was then that I felt His presence right there in that room with me. An incredible sense of joy filled my heart. I couldn't see Him, but I knew He was there. And I was in a total state of awe. I didn't know
WOOD
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who He was but I knew He was real. I knew He loved me and I knew that I loved Him. This was my first real taste of true love, in its purest form. And in that moment, I knew that I would always be okay because something in that Divine Presence made me feel certain that I would never lose contact with what I encountered that night. And I never have, not even once, in all these years. In the days, weeks, months and years that followed, despite the storms that would come, I became a joyful child who rarely lost her smile. I'm not sure how it is even possible that a four year old could know in her innermost being that she had come to know and experience her Heavenly Father God, but I just knew. His ways are not our ways and the God I serve is able to open the eyes and the heart of a child to His presence. Of course He can, He's God! It no longer mattered who hated me because I had been touched with a love so incredibly Divine that no human love could ever compare to that. He became my purpose for living as I slowly came into the awareness of God, the Bible, the Church, other believers, etc. The night I met Him left me with an insatiable hunger to know more, to pursue Him for the rest of my life and to seek out the hurting and the broken with the message of God's love.
Wedding & Anniversaries...
Jane & Steve
Jane & Steve: A 'classic' Guelph wedding day
J
ust two days after John Wills of John Wills Photography shot Jane and Steve's May 2010 wedding, he was submitting the story for The Ring's Reality Wedding Series.
Inspired by the energy of the couple and their wedding party, he explained, "The couple and wedding party had me laughing all day... It sure doesn't seem like work when you photograph incredible people like these."
stylist as she worked on the rest According to John, the mood of the wedding party. for Jane and Steve's wedding was relaxed and full of joy the John said Jane and Steve's wedding party were just as entire day, from Jane getting ready to the last guest leaving fun to work with. "They were supportive and so involved in the party. "They enjoyed every all of the photos... They wanted moment of the day, and I hope that the memories will to show this couple how continue to make special they were...." them smile."
The day stood out for John because of the love and joy that Jane and Steve expressed for each other, and for everyone involved. He said the couple's personalities shone through in every detail of the wedding day. "The dress, the choice of attendants for each the bride and groom, the flowers, the choice of music in the ceremony... their personalities were embedded into it all." Steve runs a family owned body shop in Guelph and is really into cars, so the couple rented a 1964 Rolls Royce for the day. "They were truly themselves but dressed up a bit fancier the entire day." In fact, Jane, who is a hair stylist by trade, couldn't resist lending a hand to their hired
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His Grace, June 2019
G GOD O D IS
PLEASE SHARE GOD'S LOVE