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The Fall EdiTioN
Founder/Editor in Chief .............................. Shenee' Edwards Managing Editor/Writer................................Luke Turner Content Editor/Writer .................................Anissa Stewart Fashion Editor .............................................Keenya Kersey Cover Graphic Designer .............................Sarah Grace Marketing/Social Media Manager .............Aikyna Finch Media Partners..............................................Chad & James Hampton Field Correspondent/Writer........................Kyonna T Fields Brown .......................................................................................................................
Contributing Writers ...............................Tera Carissa ...............................Frankie C Wilson Jr. ...............................Chef Kenneth Temple ...............................Richard Wessenberg ...............................Donna Rojas ...............................Dr. Jia Conway ................................Rachelle Aurelia Daus Photographer Credit Corey D. Taylor (Abe Cruz) Wes Klain (Javicia Leslie) Stacey Fierce Photography (Dr. Aikyna Finch) (Rachael Renovah) *H&M Editorial Pic Photographer: @jamainekato Stylist & MUA: @greekandchicc *Pretty Little Thing Ecomm SHoot (With Flowery trousers) Photographer: @broganwest HMUA: @emmadevinemakeup Clothes: @prettylittlething Agency: @namedmodels *I.D Editorial Shoot (With Adidas Clothes) Photographer: @dlinderyd Wardrobe: Michaela Anderson Hair Stylist: @hairbynicoleiroh MUA: @kat_krupa_ringuet Clothes by: @Adidas
PHONE NUMBER 410-645-0629 WEBSITE www.hisfavormagazine.com
Š 2018 by His Favor Magazine, Inc. All Rights Reserved Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Magazine Name is a registered trademark under His Favor Ministries Printed in the United States of America.
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From The Editor's Pen Hello, His Favor Readers!
Since the Summer Issue, a lot in my life has changed. Just like the seasons, I am ďŹ nding that I have to prepare di ferently than last season. In the Summer, we are dressed in our shorts, the children are out of school and many of us try to take a vacation. Now, that it is Fall, the children are back in school, we have to pull out our boots and jeans as we embark on colder weather. (Well, at least where I am from). None the less. I realize I have to do the same as my life is changing. This next season is showing me what I truly need to work on. It has caused me to take a good look in the mirror and face the person looking back... ME! I am not focused on my laws when it comes to my physical appearance, but my health and my spiritual being. What do I need to change? What steps will I take to do so? Is God pleased with the things that I am doing? Am I doing these things to please Him and give Him glory? I came to the conclusion that I deďŹ nitely need some tuning. I am not the worse person in the world, but I do see that "Sheneè" has to humble herself and focus. I need to be less worried about what others think but more concerned if I am pleasing my Lord. In the end, the only one that is going to stand before God is me. I can't place blame on anyone nor make excuses in regards to not following the blueprint God has set for me before I was even born. To hear "Well Done Thy Good and Faithful Servant" is the ultimate goal!
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FAV O R A B L E F E AT 9U R E S Tera Carissa
International Speaker, Author & Media Guru, TERA CARISSA, returns to His Favor Magazine
Angela Lahay
17 National Interior Designer,
Evangelist shares her powerful testimony and the vision of her company
18 James and Chad Hampton Founders of Huntin''' the Truth Ministries,
Authors and TV Hosts of Twin Factor TV shares with readers the joys of being in ministry together and more
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Javicia Leslie
Upcoming Series, God Friended Me cast member tells the importance of integrity, who inspires her and more
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FEATURES Abe Cruz
28 Super Entrepreneur & Fitness Model &
CEO/Founder of Forever Faith brand, demonstrates how one's past does not determine their future
Frankie C. Wilson Jr.
53 Award-Winning Syndicated Personality,
Event Host, Speaker, & Media Consultant, debuts as a Contributing Writer.
“Love is your foundation. When you wanna quit, your love is what makes you want to hang in there and fight. ” pg.
38 David &Tameka Mann Multi-award winning, TV & Movie star power
couple gives words of encouragement and advice to husband and wives as that discuss their highly anticipated book, "Us Against The World"
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W H AT ' S 12... Bev Johnson Gospel Recording Artist releases her new project, " It's In You"
30... Ambi S. Smith "Healing Flows" 32... Tearra Rhodes "He Said His Name Was Micah"
33.. Ewing D. Ikard III "The Heart of a True Servant" 34... D.M Cuffie "At Least Once" #hisfavormag
I N S I D E 35... Juan Canales "Never Alone" 36... Valerie Montgomery "Beyond Beautiful"
37.. Twylia Reid "Broken Wings" 44... Rachel Renovah "International Model, residing in London, does not mind being transparent when it comes to leading others to Christ" 48... Margaret & Melissa Jackson "Daughter explains the importance of having her mother's support" 50... Pastor Charlena Croutch "Finding Purpose In Peril"
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Seasons Change
Welcome to the season of the final obstacle before the open door. 2018 has been a year of unusual, confusing triumphs. What that means is, you didn't always see the victory in the dilemma you were facing. However, God knew what final push was needed to get you into your God-ordained purpose. He knew what set back to allow for your set up for greater. For example, nothing exposes enemies like them perceiving you are defeated. This is really why God allows attacks. It acts as a strategy to protect you while He promotes you. They can't see what God is doing for you because they are taking pride in what they have done to you; attacked. Nevertheless, hidden enemies are what has to be revealed before God can usher you unto your next level. Be encouraged! Victory is here. For the rest of 2018, prepare for your victory season. Marriages, proposals, promotions, grand openings, and more will take place. But, you could not have gotten there, until God exposed who would not be able to walk with you there. This is why in Genesis 12, God told Abram to leave his family. God knew that Abram would never make it to his promise still being connected to his family. A separation had to take place. That is the word for many of you. A separation must take place and not just from your family, but friends, mindsets, agendas, habits, and more. Seek God to identify what is no longer working for you. Know that every dilemma you face is developing you. Every obstacle you've experienced has prepared you for your opportunity. Everything you've overcome has prepared you for your open door. You are the definition of triumphant because of who lives in you! Embrace your journey and prepare to move forward. Despite what you see and feel, greater for God's Glory awaits! Get ready to step into your open door!
Empowerment champion through her speaking, media appearances, coaching, and mentoring shares the importance of being true to yourself
Te r a C a r i s s a H o d g e s www.teracarissa.com
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Beverly Johnson
Hello His Favor Magazine!
I'm the Founder and Minister of Music for My Praise, My Worship Music & Arts Ministry. It consists of singing, praise dancing, sign language, and mime. I also host a praise & worship workshop and concert featuring top college Gospel choirs annually! These choirs usually include Virginia Commonwealth University Black Awakening Gospel Choir, the Virginia State University Gospel Choir, and the Howard University Gospel Choir. The event also showcases dynamic Gospel artists in the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and Maryland.
When it comes to me, I feel it is important to share your testimony with others. There's so much negative reporting in the news and through social media. I feel it is just as important to share some positive and good news as well. As an artist, I can share the goodness of Jesus on many platforms.
As a woman and a mother, I would like to also give advice to a young woman who is afraid to step out of her comfort zone due to fear of failure... *Have faith in God
*Love and believe in yourself *Surround yourself around others that support you and believe in your gift/ talent *Be unique and original *Be determined and never give up
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It’s In You, is a CD that truly places the focus on
God. It’s a very personal record for Bev. “I want people to know that God is in everything I do,” shares Bev. “It’s in Him that I live, move and have my being. It’s in Him that I love and have peace. It’s in Him that I have freedom in Christ. Everything I am and everything I do is all about Him.” It’s just an expression in song from a heart that has loved music and the Lord since her youth
www.BevJohnsonmypraise.com #hisfavormag
We specialize in backyard BBQ’s for any and all events, from weddings, birthday parties, graduations, holiday parties, picnics, company events or picnics. Although we offer a wide range of BBQ catering, from brisket to ribs, to grilled steak and seafood, our specialty and passion remain the slow-smoked meats and traditional southern side dishes.
Chef Terrance J. is a self-taught renowned Chef-Owner of Two Fish & Five Loaves Catering who specializes in Southern Style, BBQ, Fine Dining Cuisine. His passion for food came from his mother who's Catering Company beard the same name. To his credit he has been a featured chef on WUSA9 Great Day Washington, Resident Chef on The Renee Allen & Friends Show, Radio One, The Central Mission Heart & Sole with Celebrity Chef Rock Harper & Friends, Mercedes-Benz of Alexandria, Metro DC Cooking Show, to name a few.
Chef Terrance J. | Personal Chef - Owner 2fish5loavesbbq.com
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A Moment With Mr. "Luke "LT" Turner
"God took the rib out of a man and made woman....that’s why when you meet the right one Y'all click...because the missing part of you is already in her"
Genesis 1st chapter and 27th verse of the Bible reads: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created a spectacle of a creature called MALE”. God then prompted the man to “WORK” by providing him assignments such as overseeing the fish of the sea, establishing dominion over the birds of the air, and every other living thing that moves on the earth. Now let’s put these objectives in motion and get a little more acquainted with them shall we? It’s very imperative to comprehend that men and women are created and built off the same principles. The man was created in a physical form from dirt, and that physical form, (which is considered the body) houses or is the temple of your spirit. The creation of the male is sensual because the body is composed of five senses (unless there is a complication or disability). Therefore, since the woman was created from the rib of the man, she is equipped with the same attributes as a man, and their similarities conjure the channel for a possible holistic connection. When you meet a woman, a man should be precise that the manifestation of that meeting is consensual before our Father which art in Heaven. “Well how do you do that?” one may ask. Great question! By obeying Matthew 6:33, “Seek ye irst the kingdom of God and his righteousness and everything else will be rewarded.” Meaning, make sure both parties are seeking the Lord as the center and core of their unification. Don’t fall victim to reversing the engineer of this extremely important content by seeking the mate first, and then asking God to bless your personal selection. Take the initiative to meet your mate in the presence of the Lord from the beginning. In my opinion, the man should already have a vision or an assignment given to him by his creator. The woman has to possess the comprehension of understanding that she is the “paracletus,” which is the Latin form of the Greek word which means “comforter” or “helpmate.” Now men, listen closely. I advise you not to be misled by the content of the previous statement and falsely assume that the man is superior to the woman because that is false. Both of you are equivocal to being dominators together. However, from day one God intentionally gave instructions to man to work and build, because the man was placed here first, that’s why he is considered the head. Subsequently, the right woman should have no issues with being submissive to the right man, and allowing him to gracefully lead their household. Together, the two shall work with congruence or a harmonious vibrancy that sparks and revs up the engine to drive home a passionate venture down a bumpy road. Since marriage will be surely difficult (trust me I know), attempt to find someone that not only you admire and desire, but your soul feels right from the energy it absorbs from that person. The tightness of your Union creates a sheer synergy that’s so explosive that the juices from your togetherness present an insatiable thirst that is only quenched by his/her love. Find a person whose imperfections and flaws are still conspicuous of shining bright enough to illuminate even your darkest nights. Someone who makes you want to sing another love song over and over (even if you can’t literally sing), because the words are so genuine. That’s when you can sustain the ideal theory that you have found your soul woman, because she is the “seatbelt to your drive because ultimately she provides the click.” Now buckle up and enjoy the ride into an ininity of oneness.
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R a c h e l l e Au r e l i a D a u s To be or not to be, it's always a choice. From the simple things like what to wear on a daily basis to the bigger and more complex decisions we have to make. But what factors in luence our decisions? There are many. Among them are values, innate tendencies, beliefs and knowledge or lack thereof. I remember when I was a kid, I used to answer every time I was asked, " what do you want to be when you grow up?" To which I would readily say, " I want to be a doctor. I want to take care of the sick." At that young age, no one mentioned the requirements of being a doctor or what it takes to care for the sick. Now past forward a little over 40 years later and here I am, taking care of the sick in a di ferent capacity.
So, what really drove me to follow the path of where I am today? I believe that what I saw in my environment and what I was exposed to at an early age played a big role in my choosing to pursue a career in the healthcare industry. But then, I also feel that there is that innate propensity to seek a purpose, which in this case, is promoting health and well-being to the unwell, not just of the body, but of the mind and spirit as well. Though I've explored other paths and opportunities to serve others, I still ďŹ nd myself returning to this current profession, no matter what challenges or achievements are met along the way.
Each job role and profession has its unique ways of serving others, if we view our careers as a means of service and promoting the good, the betterment and wellness of mankind. In whatever industry that we're in, whether we directly deal with fellow human beings or not, is a way of manifesting God's intangible attributes. In my particular ďŹ eld, qualities as having compassion, patience, kindness and understanding go a long way to make a person feel cared for, loved and understood despite di ferences in faith, religion, beliefs and background. It's a choice, to be of service, to be good, to be an instrument of God's grace, goodness and compassion.
At the beginning and end of your day, ask yourself
" What am I choosing?"
To Be Or Not To Be
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Let's Talk Social Media
Dr. Aikyna Finch Every issue we are going to talk about some new Tip, Tool and Trick about Social Media. This is also a place where you can ask your questions and get some answers! I look forward to your questions so please don't be shy. This issue we will discuss, What Platforms Should You Use to Start Building My Online Presence? This is a question that is asked all the time. The first platforms that most people start with are: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Each of these platforms have different audiences and different uses. These are the ones that people are going to search for you on for an initial connection. Research them all to see if you can benefit from the audience that the platforms attract. While you are going to post your content in different ways on the different platforms the content still needs to be consistent.
Facebook: This platform lets you share your business brand through ads, posts, videos, links, events and pictures. This is the platform that people will explore if they want to build a relationship with you. There is not a character limit associated with the posts that you make on your page. It is best to have a Personal Profile and a Business Page. When you use a Page you get likes and when you use a Profile you get friend requests. Make sure that you are using the right type of page for your brand. If you have a stand alone business or brand use the Page and if you are just sharing information use your Profile. Do not use your Profile for business because Facebook will shut it down once they detect the activity. You can give the audience the ability to post to your Page as word of mouth goes a long way. Remember to reserve the right to delete inappropriate posts from the Page.The FaceBook apps to enhance your experience: Messenger, Pages and Facebook Creator.
Twitter: This platform lets you post in real time through posts, pictures, video, and links. Links are the driving force to getting people to your content on your website. You can tweet and retweet and you can see if the people you are following are following you. You also have access to your lists and hashtags. A List is when you group people in a group that they all relate to and all of the tweets from the people load in that group so be careful about the way you title your groups as the person may post about different topics. A Hashtag (#) is used to bring attention to a post from a particular audience. When you click on the hashtag then you will see a hub of posts with the same hashtag. Many people search through hashtags so this will open your content to a different audience. Because there is a character limit of 280 characters on Twitter posts, you will post your tips, article links, picture links and twitter chats that will help your audience learn what is going on in the area of interest. Tweet articles, tips and other information that is related to your brand to draw more of a buzz to your feed.
Instagram: This platform lets you tell your story in pictures. You can start a profile with an exciting bio, wonderful photos and informational content to get people to follow you through hashtags. Hashtags are the driving force to getting the content on Instagram to your audience because people search for information by hashtags. So you need to be strategic in the type and amount of hashtags that you use. You have a limit of 30 hashtags that you can put on a post but don’t use the same ones all the time or you will get shawdowbanned. You want a balance of hashtags that are tailored to your audience but will not have your post buried in the feed after a few seconds. Finding the right formula will take some time but it will be worth it once the audience starts floating into the business. The goal is for others to get value from your content and be able to engage with you. This will work for a service and product based business as you have unlimited copy to go along with the photo that you post. This platform is a way to show your brand in an innovative way. These are some easy starter platforms. I would love to hear what you think or what your starter platforms were!
www.aikynafinch.com #hisfavormag
Greetings His Favor! I am so blessed. God is really doing big things in my life. I’m truly honored for this opportunity. Thank You. God was the inspiration behind my business, Angela Lahay Designs, LLC. I know him to be the best “interior designer” of them all. He has changed me from the inside out. For me design is my passion but I also love that with it comes the opportunity to change the atmosphere of people’s homes. Where I go, the anointing follows. I bring Jesus with me. I would tell anyone who may be focusing on the “downs” in life to try looking at things from a different perspective. We all go through seasons. It won’t always “be this way.” It is very easy to get into the mode of blaming others or playing the victim of your circumstance. It’s much more difficult and brave to admit that you were not created to take on the burden of life alone. God wants you to cast your cares on him because he cares for you. Also, read the Bible and books on mindset. That is what helps me!
Angela Lahay
When I encounter potential clients I always try to make an impact. It is not my desire to come into their home, take away the things that they cherish, make it look like a place I’d want to live, get a paycheck and end with a handshake. It is a process. I want to listen. I want to observe. I want to hear their needs and help offer solutions. When the job is done and it’s my time to leave I want them to feel different about the way they live. I want them to feel special. To feel their home is worthy to entertain in and show to other people. Most importantly, I want order, peace and beauty to invade their lives.
The Best Interior Designer
Being a divorcée myself I can tell you from experience that everyone is going to have their own opinions regarding your choice to divorce. Even “in church” or in ministry we are surrounded by imperfect humans just doing their best to make it. There is no such thing as a perfect person. My advice is listen to God, if he says, “Go” and you have justification for your decision then there is no one else you need to convince. I believe the people in your life who love you should respect your decision. People operating under the law will try to manipulate and create rules for your life based out of fear or their own personal experiences. This keeps people bound by guilt and shame. (Religion) Jesus says you are redeemed, a new creation and there is nothing that can separate you from my love. (Relationship) Even if we create our own mess he will work it out for our good. What a reason to celebrate! God has given me several ideas for the future. I definitely would love to create pattern designs for my own line of home furnishings like wallpaper, bedding and pillows to name a few. Once I have some years under my belt, I’d love to mentor other people who have a desire to do what I do and show them how to have a successful business. If God gives me more opportunities through magazines, television, radio or in person I’d love to inspire others to not discount their worth or give up on their dreams. We serve a big God who can do exceedingly, abundantly more than we can think or imagine! 17
Even though you are twins, what prompted the decision to be in ministry together? It was interesting, as we grew up neither one of us thought we would be in ministry, or even had the desire to. We would’ve never believed back then that God could use someone like us to be in “ministry”. We both attended a Christian college together, and it was there that we started to learn and realize that God wants to use everyone to be a “minister” right where they are at to share the love of Jesus with others and “Be The Factor” in their lives. It was this realization, along with our own separate experiences in our relationship with God that caused us to believe God was leading us into ministry as a vocation also. As we grew, being twins was part of the decision to be in ministry together. Although God has gifted us both differently those gifts flow well together, and we have always felt that God would use the “Twin Factor” and our twin relationship in ministry in different ways. Please share with our readers, what is "being the factor?" We speak extensively teaching that everyone has the “Twin Factor” and can “Be The Factor” in the lives of others. The “Twin” concept comes from Genesis chapter 1:26 NIV where God says “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness…” When God says “us” He is referring to the Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. So God said that He created us in the image of His Son Jesus, which makes us twins with Him like James and I are twins made in the image of each other. We also teach that the word ‘Factor” means “to have an impact on something or someone.” That verse goes on to say “…so they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” This verse also says God created us with a purpose on this earth. It was to have dominion, or have an impact on the world and people around us. So God created each of us as twins to His Son Jesus with a purpose to “Be The Factor” in the world and lives of people around us. Everyone has the “TWIN FACTOR”! Our ministry mission is to teach people who they are made in the image of, and what purpose God has given them to be the factor in the lives of others. How do you want the audience to feel after watching your show? We have several goals that we want to accomplish in the lives of those who view our shows. First, as pastors and people with a television show, we want to be able to connect with them on the level that we are just normal everyday people with all of our struggles and issues and quirks just trying to pursue Gods will for our lives and live it out. We have had countless comments from people who are surprised at how real, normal, and funny we are on television and thats a compliment! Sometimes people believe that Pastors are these holy people who sit in the church office all day and read the Bible and never have any fun. That’s just not true. Pastors are just normal people with real struggles just like everyone else, and yes they can be goofy and fun also! Its not an act we put on. We are just us, which is real, normal, and goofy! Once we connect with them on that level, then our hope is that they are open to what we have to say, and what our lives say through us and what we do in our ministries, and that is that God loves them and has a plan for their lives! Although we love to be bold in sharing the Gospel, we try to do it in more subtle ways in our show by referring to God, giving Him thanks, showcasing what we do in our ministries, and connecting the lessons we learn through our hunts and adventures to God by including a spiritual application at the end of every show. We also do this through extra content we create like our “”Hunt More” Short Films that take the spiritual application of our shows and go deeper into spiritual truths. Our ultimate goal is that a viewer goes away seeing their need for Jesus as their Savior and begins a relationship with Him, or if they already do have a relationship with Jesus, that they grow in their relationship with Him!
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Are there any other ventures you would like to pursue in the near future? We have our hands full right now with c0-pastoring The Truth Church, co-leading our outdoor non-profit ministry Huntin The Truth Ministries, producing our TV show Twin Factor, along with traveling extensively and speaking at events and churches across the country on our book “Secrets of the Hunt.” We both have families and family is very important to us. We want to keep our priorities straight and stay balanced, so we do not have any plans to start any new ventures in the near future. We are just focused on letting God lead and grow the current ministries we are responsible for at this time! Contact Information and Ministries Information
Booking: Contact us through our website at www.twinfactortv.com Media/Interview: hisfavorministriesllc@gmail.com James Hampton- james@twinfactortv.com 810.614.5712 Chad Hampton- chad@twinfactortv.com 810.614.5714 Twin Factor- www.twinfactortv.com Facebook “Twin Factor” Instagram @twinfactortv” Twitter “@twinfactortv”
Huntin' The Truth Ministries- www.huntinthetruth.com On Facebook “Huntin The Truth Ministries HQ” On Instagram “Huntinthetruthministries” The Truth Church- “The Truth Church” on You Tube “Secrets of the Hunt” by James and Chad Hampton can be purchased from Barnes and Noble at www.barnesandnoble.com 19 Men Of Favor
There Is No Such Thing As Fair Dr. Jia Conway
“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been “faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the lord,” (Matthew 25:21) How many times have we heard someone say, “Life isn’t fair?” Or have even said these very words ourselves? What really is fairness? The truth of the reality is that life is not meant to be fair, it is meant for each of us to maximize it to its fullest potential. Life is about using our gifts, talents and abilities to the fullest of their potential, without comparison to that of others. The gifts and talents that God has blessed us each with are individualistic and specific. We should not get confused the concept that God is no respecter of persons with the differences in our talents and abilities that God graces us each with. God does love us all the same, and He does want an abundant life for all of His children. Yet, God is not interested in being fair; He is interested in us being who He created us to be and using what He has blessed each and every one of us with for His glory. What God wants us to do instead of empowering the mindset of unfairness is to empower the principle of leverage. When was the last time you asked yourself, what am I doing with the gifts, talents and abilities that God has blessed me with? Can you look at your life and say with all truth that you have been a good steward over what God has endowed you with? In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus is sharing with us the Parable of the Talents. In this text we are shown true wealth principles as we see a wealthy man entrust three of his servants with his wealth. The distribution of the wealth was not equal amongst the servants as one was given one talent, another five talents, and another two talents. Nevertheless, what they each held before them was the worth and power of leverage. Regardless of the unevenness of the distribution of talents, each of the servants had the same opportunity to succeed. Each servant had before them fruit to be planted to grow and multiply regardless of what they possessed in quantity, because there was still quality. So, what we come to learn is that the servant with the one talent did nothing with his talent, but buried it. There was no return or reflection of what had been given to him, because he did nothing with it! He took no responsibility for growing what he had blessed with, therefore it would not have mattered if he had five, ten, fifteen or more talents…they were buried and profited no one. Ever buried what God placed in your hands? How many times do we bury what God has placed in our hands to bless us or someone else? How many times have we missed the opportunity to use what God has given us over what we have had to earn the hard way? The sad reality is that this has been many of us who have gotten caught up in burying our gifts and talents out of our own fears, or because of us looking at what others have gained with the same skill-sets; only to miss the opportunity to leverage the least to gain the greatest. Quantity means nothing without quality and an appreciation for the value of what we have already. We cannot expect God to enlarge our territory if we have not even shown ourselves to be stewards over the least of things that He has blessed us with. Maximizing what God blesses us with from the least to the greatest causes us to take responsibility for what God has given us. We won’t all get the same opportunity, amount of privileges, or even travel the same paths towards success even if we have the same gifts. However, we all will get the opportunity to show ourselves to be faithful servants unto that which God has blessed us with. We must stop getting so caught up in the amount of something and the mindset of being fair. Fairness comes when we are faithful to use what God has been so gracious to give us, even when we are unworthy. Fairness comes when we take the position of “owning it!” Regardless of how big or small the gift, talent, or ability, God gave it, and something is required in return. Life won’t always be fair, but it will provide the opportunity for each of us grow into who God has created us to be and maximize what He has created us each to do! Crayons come in different colors, but one does not dull another because it is a different color. No, each one will fulfill its purpose and function in its own identity. To get a job well done, we must do a job well. To whom anything is given, something is required. That is the fair thing to do! Dr. Jia
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Javicia Leslie was born in Augsburg, Germany. She moved to Maryland
at a young age and was raised in Upper Marlboro near Washington, DC. Her first stream of work began as the lead for the television film, Killer Coach. Javicia has continued to work ties with series such as MacGyver, Chef Julian, and Prototype. In 2017 she filmed a role as one of the leads in the film - " The Family Business", based on the NY Times best selling author, Carl Weber. In 2018 she landed her first series regular role as Ali Finer in "God Friended Me" as the sister to Brandon Michael Hall for CBS. Along with film, television, and commercials, Javicia has performed in many plays. These plays include August Wilson's Seven Guitars, Ntozake Shange's For Colored Girls, and Bob Fosse's Chicago. Javicia Leslie is also trained in Muay Thai, Boxing, Weapons, Dance, Track, and Swimming and regularly trains in an extensive Fitness Bootcamp.
Javicia Leslie
I have been acting since I was a little girl. I would perform in local plays (camp, high school, and college). From there I began to cast for small independent films. It was a lot of fun, but when I graduated from Hampton University, I went back to DC and started working for the government. During that time, I would sit at my desk looking online at things I really wanted to do. I would look up acting classes, shows/movies I wanted to be in and even check out other actor's careers that I admired. I began to do small projects in the DC area. Finally, when my contract with the government came to an end, it was the perfect timing to follow my dream! Instead of looking for another job, I picked up all of my stuff and moved to Los Angeles, CA. It has been an amazing journey ever since.
What has kept me grounded is my family. More specifically, my relationship with my mom. She raised me to have values and integrity. She even raised me to make healthy decisions that were going to impact my future. Trust me, I have made mistakes. However, that has also kept me grounded... making mistakes and learning from them. I had to understand what "the fall" feels like" so that I would know that I never wanted to feel that again. My grandmother was another person. I always had a close relationship with her. I would do what I could in order to never disappoint her. So a lot of my hard work and integrity comes from wanting to be a great representation of my grandmother. Overall, it is the relationships that have had an impact on my life that has kept me grounded and shaped me into the person I am today. I always have those relationships in the back of my head because I want to make those people proud. Those are the people that sacrificed a lot in order to help me. This was a "Community" My success is not just about me, but about my tribe. In my role as Ali in God Friended Me, she is an intelligent, educated black woman. She has an opinion, but it is always thought through. She is filled with love for her family and friends. She basically carries the "motherly" vibe on the show. She is always around to offer advice. It is very important to be the highest version of yourself. That's what I love about Ali. She is herself in every capacity. A lot of our #hisfavormag
journey is figuring out who we are. I am not saying she has everything figured out, but what I learned from this character is that she enjoys being her authentic self. I think that is a battle for a lot of people; enjoying being in their own skin. I don't even believe in "flaws and all" the way that the world defines it. Representing your whole entirety with pride. The battle that she is going to face is with her father and brother. Learning how to communicate with your parents and vice versa is a journey that Ali will go through on the show. Even as I was growing up, there were times when it was difficult for me to communicate with my own mom. Especially in the early 20s, when you think you know everything but really don't know anything. Ali's character will teach those in their late teens and early 20s, just how to get through the mindset of "I am an adult. I HAVE been through some things. Please understand that!" compared to being never too grown to learn from someone that has been through way more than you have.
Television Premiere:
Sunday, September 30, 2018 Starring:
Brandon Micheal Hall, Violett Beane, Suraj Sharma, and Joe Morton About:
GOD FRIENDED ME is an uplifting family drama about an outspoken atheist whose life is turned upside down when he receives a friend request on social media from God and unwittingly becomes an agent of change in the lives and destinies of others around him. www.cbs.com/shows/god-friended-me/ 23
Turning My Tragedy into Triumph
...for Others
Sometimes life has to knock you down in order for you to find your true direction. Born in New York City but raised on the beautiful island of St. Thomas by my grandparents, I had no idea as I grew up how my life was going to be shaped and formed to where I am today. At 13 years old, my grandfather, a local entrepreneur was violently gunned down by two armed robbers with me within hearing distance. Hours later the man that I fondly called daddy was dead. I had to testify in front of a grand jury as to my recollection of that day and became the indirect victim of a crime. Fast forward, after trying my hand at numerous careers, I finally was guided to my calling as a certified Offender Workforce Development Specialist (OWDS) and National Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF). I am now helping the inmate population and returning citizens to grow and maximize their strengths, reach their potential, and achieve positive results. This transformational coaching takes
places at a nation model American Job Center which is embedded in local maximum security jail. I used to find it ironic that I would be working with returning citizens because of the impact that crime had on my family as a youth. However, as I have settled into this position, I see how I am blessed to bless others referencing my tragedy that has become an important part of my outreach to this particular population. I now help returning citizens to understand how crime can impact a victim and that there is a victim behind every crime. This work is not easy, resistance to change is very obvious, and trust is not always there. It takes a person who is passionate, who is engaged, and who is patient to help change the trajectory of these individuals whose challenges brought them to become incarcerated. The Bureau of Justice Statistics states that at least 95% of individuals behind bars will be returning back to their local communities. When we think about it, how do we want them to return to our local community? I coach my customers by preparing them to obtain employment, connect them with housing resources (if they are homeless), and through creative interactive sessions, ways to reunify with their family, and become “life ready�. These methods along with others are considered evidence based practices to reduce recidivism. In our personal life we have been able to get a second and third chance. This is why it is important for me to assist these individuals while they are behind bars so that they have the opportunity to get a second chance to be successful outside of those bars. I never thought that this is where I would be called to serve but I thank God for the opportunity and I will continue to serve in this capacity as my tragedy early on turned into me helping others to triumph. ~Donna aka Coach Rojas
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Music
Editor's
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P lay list
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Abe Cruz
If You Don't Believe In Yourself, No One Else Will
I believe we all have greatness in us, but unfortunately, not everyone recognizes or taps into the gifts that God has given us. When I was released from prison I had the door slammed in my face over and over and over again. No one wanted to hire a convicted felon. It wasn't until God sent me my guardian angel, Fred Bassett, who believed in me and my vision from day one, who invested in me and allowed me to move forward on all my visions from prison. And even when you do become successful on whatever level, it only gets harder. In saying this, I have now expanded into a full retail collection, and the Vision started when I was at my rock-bottom in prison. I started the brand with the purpose to motivate and inspire those who have struggled in life.
It is astonishing how Fitness and Wellness are
My book "Forever Faith - The Abe Cruz Story (Part 1) is being released this fall
rising in the Church, as well as the rest of the world. We could be doing more. but there's no such thing as perfection. We all should be striving for improvement each and every day. Spiritually, mentally, physically, and financially. There is no such thing as hats coming off as an entrepreneur. Even if I was as successful as Diddy, the more successful the more is required of me.
Please follow me on social media @TheRealAbeCruz
www.AbeCruz.com
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Ambi S. Smith, is a wife, a mother, and a minister whose mission is to touch and heal the hearts of women who are facing the di ficulties that o tentimes accompany motherhood.
I believe readers are drawn to my book because of my transparency. Although this book is about my healing journey, it will speak to any journey that the reader is currently going through. I wrote this book to help other women who are battling infertility. Or at least, that’s why I thought the Lord had me write this book. However, this book speaks to women dealing with depression. I’ve also had wives tell me that it helped them in areas of their marriage. Other young ladies have shared how they simply learned how to pray and actually believe what they are praying to the Lord for. I have even had some male readers share how this book helped them in their walk with Christ. So, it definitely meets you right where you are. I was just a willing vessel who accepted the call to write this book. It makes my heart smile to see how my greatest challenge has become one of my greatest testimonies.
Being that this book is near and dear to you, did you find it tough to get through certain chapters/ pages? It’s quite funny that you ask that because I actually had no difficulties writing this book. It actually took me less than 2 weeks to write this book. It was as Jeremiah says “ like fire shut up in my bones.” I had to get it out! Once I started writing, everything just poured out! I cried and I cried but there were no sad tears. It was as though I was being cleansed….By the time I completed the book, I was cried out and ultimately, I was finally healed. This book was my #hisfavormag
release. The Lord revealed so much to me while I was at the computer. I don’t want to share to much because I want you to read the book for yourself…but when I wrote this, I felt so betrayed by God and I was hurt. Yet, I still did what He said. When I said “yes” to Him, he began revealing to me why I went through the things I went through, what He was doing inside me, and how this book was going to help the Kingdom. Someone reading this interview is waiting for God to move in their life, but God is waiting for your YES. How do you want readers to feel when they are finished reading your work? I want my readers to have faith like they have never had before. I like to call it “crazy faith”. I want them to know the power of the God that we serve. More than that, I want them to believe in the supernatural powers of our God. If there is a problem that they have, I want them to know that God can solve it. If there is sickness in their body, I want them to believe that God can heal it. In “Healing Flows” I not only share my healing journey, but I give the tools the Lord prophetically gave to me to receive my healing. Then, I share the scriptures that I studied and I give the reader space to write and share what those scriptures mean to them on a personal level. It’s all about relationship. I will tell anyone, The Word works if you work it. Are there any other ventures you would like to pursue in the near future? Most definitely! I am constantly evolving. I am currently working on becoming a certified Christian Life Coach to help others navigate this thing called life using spiritual principles. I also desire to expand my ministry Sisters in the Name of Christ, Inc. We are a 501c3 organization catered to women in the Middle TN area. I am currently researching expansion to be able to continue to minister and speak to the hearts of my sisters everywhere. To learn more about this ministry, visit www.sistersinthenameofchristinc.org Follow me on my social outlets @AmbiShantay. I love to connect with my readers. You can purchase my book on my website www.ambishantay.com or Amazon. For booking info, email info@ambishantay.com.
On The Bookshelf
(Recommended Christian Books)
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Hello! My name is Tearra Rhodes. I was born, raised, and currently reside in Buffalo, NY, I love to write and I have boxes and boxes of unfinished stories and plays. My next project will be pulling out one of those boxes and dusting off a potential masterpiece. In my recent piece, I tried to make the characters in He Said His Name Was Micah as believable as possible. When faced with a dangerous situation, Ava is very human. This makes God's power and grace shine through even more without being too preachy or heavy-handed for the reader. I want the reader to feel like they have read something enlightening, entertaining, and enjoyable. Christian fiction does not need to be stilted or drab. God isn't, so why should fiction from a Christian perspective be? As for me, I would love to create a writing workshop for aspiring writers, sharing what I have learned so far as an indie author. I also want to keep writing Christian fiction about quirky characters, because the body of Christ is filled with so many different kinds of people. I like my writing to reflect that. I'm just always trying to be better than I was yesterday.
Be on the lookout for Book 2 in The Micah Series www.tearrarhodes.com Social Media: @tearrarhodesfiction
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“The Heart of a True Servant” gives its readers some applicable points that will help them immediately go to the next level in serving. The heart of a true servant is not just about being gifted and talented (which we do need) but the “how” and the “why” you are offering your gift as well. What makes this book unique is that you do not find a lot of books that encourage you to push someone else’s vision as you would your own. I just feel that we are at a crucial time in the Kingdom of God that God’s appointed leaders need to know that the people that are around them are authentic and not trying to build their own platform or agenda.
serve in the Kingdom of God and to your assigned leader those three tentacles cannot be within your heart. After you have been challenged, after you have evaluated the “how” and “why” and even before you finish reading the book, you will begin to find yourself becoming more equipped and encouraged to serve on another level that will be evident not only to your leader but everyone you serve alongside.
Authenticity is a major key in the body of Christ which is another thing that makes this book unique. This is not just another book about getting active in ministry so you can learn to serve to learn to lead. No! It’s about being rooted and having a foundation. It’s about your relationship not just as a member of a church but about the importance of and the development of a relationship as a spiritual son or daughter.
As for me, I have set myself a goal to pursue more entrepreneurial endeavors. While I continue to push the message of The Heart of a True Servant, the next thing on my “To Do List” is to venture into Real Estate. After all, the Bible did say that we are to be landlords (lords of the land), which means God wants me to own some property! And if God wants it for me then I want to go after it!
A servant leader is one who helps facilitate the vision of the one he/she is submitted to. It is someone that puts action and the needs of others before their title. He is one that focuses on growth and walks besides their leader in unison not division providing strength and support to their leader. To help provide strength and support to their leader the servant-leader is able to operate with the mantle of their leader to get things done. After reading “The Heart of a True Servant” I want readers to feel challenged, evaluated, and equipped to serve 10x’s better. I want them to reflect on how they currently serve and be challenged to be more effective and more dedicated to their assignment. For example, in my book I talk about being willing to make the inconvenient sacrifice versus the convenient sacrifice. I want them to evaluate their “how” and “why” of serving for example: “How can I do better?” and “Why am I serving?” The answer to those types of questions is essential to serving authentically. This is about killing the three tentacles that lead to sin: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. In order to authentically
I believe that Loyal, Dedicated, Fun, Grateful, and Analytical would probably best describe me. I also want people to know that any vision cannot be accomplished without support from others. I thank God for the support of my wife, Shawnie, our 3 children, my parents Ewing Sr and Rose. I thank God for my Pastor and spiritual father Archbishop William Hudson III, an awesome leader who saw potential in me and begin to pull it out of me. Thank you to my publisher Prophet Cornelius Williams and PCW Global – Publishing Vision for helping me bring this project to life!
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D.M. Cuffie currently residing in Columbia, MD, received her
bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland at College Park and a master's degree from the University of Phoenix. She actively participates with the Black Writers' Guild of Maryland and Maryland Writers’ Association.
THE BOOK First, the book’s genre is what I call “Christian Chick-Lit,” a combination of women-centered themes…and shenanigans, with Christian undertones…and Bible quotes. One of my favorite lines in At Least Once says, “I realize The Word says for us to ask, seek, and knock. I’ve asked so much I need a throat lozenge. I have been seeking so much that I need a new pair of glasses. And I need a cast on my hand for all that knocking. And He still ain’t listening!” At Least Once takes an honest, encouraging, transparent, conversational look at a Christian singles’ class for women set outside of a church. It also looks at the life of the lead character, Breeze Monsoon and how she considers herself an “eternal bridesmaid”. The eight ladies in the class, “The Flowers,” are beyond an “oh, just pray about it” response to their singleness. They are 35 and over and want to do something about it. READER REACTION Once the reader places the book down, I want them to say, “Let me get prepared for His next steps in my life.” I’m hoping my readers finally “feel” understood and heard, while being entertained, uplifted, and confident about their next steps. I also want readers to have that, “God, You said___, so I will have faith that You
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will bring it to pass” realization when results are not coming as quickly as they want, but they still have His Word and His promises in their hearts. THE FUTURE There were a few storylines that developed in At Least Once that I wanted to further explore. One novel will turn into six novels in the While We Wait series. I am determined to finish the second novel in the While We Wait series by the end of this year. I’m also doing some research in the form of training for a half marathon for Novel#3. www.dmcuffieauthor.com www.facebook.com/dmcuffieauthor At Least Once can be found on Amazon www.amazon.com
Life is always busy! I work a 40+ hour work
week, serve in my home church plus get in as
much time with my wife and kids as possible! Everyone has a story! I'm only one voice of
millions out there who has been through some
hard stuff! I think what makes my story unique is certain things that I share about my story like my immigration story and my death certificate. Not everyone has one of those!
When readers finish my story above anything
Juan Canales was born in Honduras. At six years old he was brought to the U.S undocumented. A little over a year later, right after the L.A. Riots, his parents left him in California with some “friends” while they made a trip back to Honduras. After only a week or two he was told his parents were dead and he was put out on the streets of Los Angeles. In Never Alone, Juan shares his story of how an eight year old boy that does not speak English makes it on the streets of L.A. He Shares some of his most diicult experiences he faced being homeless and walking the streets of Korea-town and MacArthur Park in West L.A. Juan was eventually reunited with his parents but, it was far from a fairytale ending. Juan experienced abuse mentally and physically. He was beaten by his father to the point he would black out. When Juan was almost 16 years old his dad was on the run again and moved the family across the U.S. to the Indianapolis. In Indianapolis, Juan lived in a shelter and continued to endure the abusive cycles of his father. He also came face to face with discrimination in school. He would eventually drop out of high school. It was also in Indianapolis where Juan met his wife, Liz. After, dating for a year and a half they were married and began their own family. Juan’s life took a “Turning Point” when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He realized that in everything he had been through in his life he was “Never Alone”. God had always been with him and things could have been so much worse! More memories of Juan’s past that he had blocked began to service through out his life. All along Juan thought that he had an asylum status with U.S. Immigration, only to ind out about 4 years after he was married that he did not. Eventually, he would turn himself into Immigration, placing himself in deportation. Juan talks about this time in his life in great detail in Never Alone. He also shares when he came face to face with his own death certiicate issued by Honduran authorities. Juan goes on to share how God provided for his family as he was given the responsibility of raising his younger brother and sister, and how he and his wife deal with the loss of a child and his wife’s mother. Juan Canales and his wife, Liz, currently live in Indianapolis with their 5 children. He serves as the Men’s Ministry Coordinator at their church Bethel Family Worship Center on the West-side of Indianapolis. Juan’s passion is supporting, encouraging and provoking men to rise up and take their place in their families, churches and communities. We need men to be present and take an active role in these areas. No matter where they have come from, what they have been through or what they have done! We need men to FIGHT for their families! We need men to take their relationship with Jesus seriously and to lead our families and those we inluence to the Cross! It doesn’t matter where we started, It matters where we inish!
else I hope they realize how much God loves them! I want them to be encouraged that no
matter what they have been through or are going through He is there! They can make it through anything-with Jesus!
I would like to have opportunities to speak to groups and share parts of my story! I want to
motivate and encourage people to keep moving forward! "It doesn't matter where you start- It matters where you finish!"
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Hello His Favor! I am getting settled into my new office in the lovely North Tejon Street neighborhood in downtown Colorado Springs. I am enjoying the people foot traffic and lovely architecture. I enjoy taking photographs of my walking commute and sharing them on social media. 2. Tell us what makes your book "unique"? Well, my book doesn’t fit neatly into any category. The poetry in the book was actual journaling through a difficult period of my life. As I journaled my emotions sometimes there was a form to my feelings. I sometimes would read a poem at a speaking event and listeners would ask for a copy. As a means of accountability, I asked my friend Suzanne Kostelic to pair a photograph she had taken of her family’s trip to Italy with a poem. This would keep me focused on typing up the poems and provide for a creative outlet for me and for her with the completion of each typed copy. My writing was in manual form. So, the rawness of the poems, the beauty of the photographs, and the “five times local” creation of the final product sets the book apart from other poetry, inspirational, coffee-table, or recovery books of other kinds. The “Five times local” means my editor, Alane Pearce, is a military spouse whom I met at a speaking event when she lived in Colorado Springs (Colorado Springs has five military installations). The book cover art was created by my local website/branding/graphic design company and friend, Michael O’Cana. Alane found us a local printer to print the books so I could feel what they would feel like in a readers hand. And, of course, Suzanne and I. We met when our now adult sons were in the same kindergarten class and we became carpool moms. 3. How do you want readers to feel when they are finished reading your work?
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Emotional catharsis and healing is key to my work as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Healing is the ultimate goal. Connection is what fuels my work and my life, actually. I would like readers to have an experience of understanding of themselves as they experience the book. Each of the photographs was especially chosen to augment and highlight the feeling of the poems with them. Even the three photographs chosen for the front cover has an intention. Left to right, the experience of feeling the future, stepping closer to the future, then taking the steps to move into the future. The book is very symbolic and experiential. I would like each reader to respect their feelings and thoughts as they go through the book. Savor what is “coming up” for themselves. Journaling while reading may create more awareness in the reader. The ultimate goal is Love. To feel the healing of emotional pain reveals the truth of love. Life is about love. 4. Are there any other ventures you would like to pursue in the near future? Right now I am a PhD Candidate. Through qualitative and heuristic research I am putting together a training with manual to help the mental health, medical, and educational community to understand the interpersonal dynamic between women who pair with undiagnosed or misdiagnosed men who have Autism traits. This has been my experience. So, after I have completed my PhD I will be setting up trainings for this topic. 5. 5 words that describe your personality? Dynamic, Motivated by mutuality, Relational, Empathic, Conscious Top 5 Spiritual Gifts: Shepherding, Exhortation, Service, Hospitality, Teaching Feelings are information about what we need more or less of. Without them we could not participate in love and joy, which are the emotions when our needs are met. We as adults can meet our own needs and are responsible for doing so. We want others in our lives to love and share. I have extra training post-graduate with the concept of co-dependency. But, co-dependency is actually a developmental stage emotionally that children are meant to grow through, not be stuck in.
“Broken Wings” shares the story of a journey that covers a broad spectrum of FAITH, HOPE, HEALING, PERSEVERANCE, OPTIMISM, and UNENDING LOVE. It also allows you some insight into the struggles and challenges of being a brain injury survivor and a caregiver. It is the blue print to show others how to navigate through untimely tragedies, while inspiring and empowering them to create the life they desire in spite of the devastation that accompany traumatic events. After reading, I know one will feel Encouraged, Empowered, Enlightened! Readers will walk away knowing how to turn their tragedies into empowering moments as they become the strategist of their own destiny. I am also in the planning phase of my first annual Encouraged, Empowered, Enlightened Conference Tour! This tour will be a multi-city tour that will consist of speakers who are survivors of traumatic events who have made it out victorious who are now on a mission to share their testimony of hope and healing with the world. So stay tuned for more information as this vision comes to fruition!
Twylia Reid is a native of Mississippi who currently resides in Savannah, Georgia. She studied and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration at Trident University International while continuing to work as a HR Manager in the US Army where she is a 20 year retiree. 2018 Winner of The Authors Show Top Female Non-Fiction Author, 2018 Georgia’s Born to Lead Global Women’s Leadership Campaign Ambassador, 2017 American Book Fest Best Book Awards Finalist, The Huffington Post Expert Feature Series “Who’s Who – 10 Black Female Experts to Watch in 2018” selectee, 2017 Indie Author Legacy Award Author of the Year finalist, Elevate 2017 Triumphant Award Nominee, AAALAC International Recognized Author, President/CEO of Broken Wings, Inc., speaker, group facilitator, and licensed minister. She is also the founder of Broken Wings Brain Injury Empowerment Group, which is an online brain injury support group, and host of the Conquerors Café on Blog Talk Radio’s She Praise Magazine. Grateful for the support she has received, and passionate about her role as a Traumatic Brain Injury advocate and caregiver, she was inspired to write her first book entitled “Broken Wings” to help others understand the life of a brain injury survivor and his caregiver. Shortly afterwards she was inspired to write "God has shown me great favor as I travel this journey carrying out the vision He has given me for Broken Wings!
“Affirmations for the Mind, Body, & Soul; A Guide for Survivors of Traumatic Events” to demonstrate to survivors how their lives can be changed by the power of their words. Enlightening and empowering other survivors and caregivers by providing resources, encouragement, motivation, and inspiration is what she lives for. Teaching them how to turn their tragedy into working strategies to get results in spite of health or wealth challenges is her calling.
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David & Tamela Mann
David: What was it like writing a book with your wife? Writing the book with Tamela was gratifying, challenging and eye opening. We really enjoyed the process and look forward to more.
Tamela: There are many Christian couples getting a divorce. What do you feel is aiding in the high statistics? Marriages aren’t being made a priority anymore. We are putting everything in front of our spouses. There’s a breakdown in communication, and for some reason it seems to be easier to go and talk to someone else other than your spouse. The MAIN thing is that people are falling out of love. David: As a Man of God, how important is it to be apart of your children's life (even as adults)? It’s very important to be a part of their lives because we shape the future by our actions be it good or bad. What advice would you give another father that might not be as close to his children as he was when they are children? It’s never too late to start over. For whatever reason the bond was broken. Push rest and start over. Tamela: Do you agree with the clichè "You don't marry for love. You grow to love the person".. Absolutely NOT! Love is your foundation. When you wanna quit, your love is what makes you want to hang in there and fight. David and Tamela: Both of you have busy schedules. How were you able to set aside time to write Us Against The World. (Tamela)Wooooooo! Lol. In all honesty, it was rough. Thirty years is a long time to recap. We spent A LOT of hours going over everything, and we had to go back to the beginning. (David) For us it was very important to write the book so we made it a priority so that we could share our 30-year journey with the world. There a lot of late nights and early mornings and a lot of crying and reminiscing. What is it that attracted you to each other in the first place? (Tamela)What attracted me to David was my desire to always have commonality with the person I was going to marry. We enjoyed each other’s company and we have a lot in common. (David) Our friendship and both of our love for Christ. We liked the same things.
NAACP Image Award-Winning Actor David Mann and Grammy® Award-Winning Singer Tamela Mann Share Story of Their 30-Year Romance and Secrets to Love and Marriage in New Memoir Set to Release November 13th
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Us Against The World Marriage Family Business
Us Against the World: The Love Project Release Date: November 9, 2018 39
Photograph Used with Permission (Kenneth Temple)
www.chefkennethtemple.com
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Savory Creole
Pulled Chicken Sandwich with Fried Green Tomatoes
I had to find a way to eat fried green tomatoes that was different but still delicious. So I came up with a lovely pairing for a fast meal that feeds a family immediately and leaves everyone happy. Course Appetizer, Main Course Cuisine American, Southern Keyword fried green tomato Prep Time 5 minutes Cook Time 10 minutes Total Time 15 minutes Servings 4 Author Chef Kenneth Temple
Ingredients
• Remoulade: • 2 cups mayonnaise • ¼ cup creole mustard • ¼ onion chopped • 1 stalks celery chopped • 2 garlic cloves smashed • Juice of ½ lemon • 2 tablespoons hot sauce • 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar • To Taste salt • ½ tsp cayenne • Fried Green Tomatoes: • oil • 4 green tomatoes sliced ¼-½
Instructions
1. To make remoulade: 2. Add all to blender, blend
for 1 minute or until smooth. Pour and serve. For maximum flavor let sit for 24 hours.
3. To make fried green tomatoes:
4. Heat oil to cover
tomatoes to 350 F in a heavy bottom skillet. Season tomato slices with salt and pepper. In a bowl add flour and panko and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and cayenne. In another bowl beat eggs with salt and pepper. Dredge tomatoes slices in egg, then flour and panko mixture. Fry for 2-3 minutes and drain on paper towels.
5. Take your toast bread and spread remoulade evenly on both sides of bread, add fried green tomatoes and pulled chicken. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Note: Use two forks to pull your chicken to have great shredded chicken. You can use any protein or vegetable you like to make this sandwich yours.
inch
• To taste salt and black pepper • 1 cup flour • ¾ cup panko • 2 teaspoons garlic powder • 1 teaspoon cayenne • 2 eggs • Pulled Chicken: • 1 store rotiesseire chicken skinned, bones removed and shredded
• 8 slices of bread or 4 mini poboys toasted
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Rachel Renovah
I am a commercial model from Singapore and models between London and Singapore. I have been a Christian for 6 years and serve on a deliverance ministry called the Liebusters. I go Pastor Joseph Prince's church in Singapore called New Creation and also attends HTB on Brompton Road in London when I'm in town. I travel and share the Light, love and Joy of the Lord through my modeling jobs as well as creating content on social media for startups wherever I go hoping to just touch the lives of those who feel unlovable, unacceptable and is desperate to experience God's relentless love in any way possible. What was the inspiration to start writing? At the moment, I mainly write and post on Instagram. And I do that because I find that we go through the hustle and bustle of life and don't often stop to think, pause and reflect. Was why I thought publishing Instagram posts would help me and my followers realized some of the processes they are in and provide some form of insights to what they are going through. Many times, it helps them realized that they are not alone with their experiences, thoughts and emotions in this crazy world of go-getters and Instagram pictures. Everyone goes through "ups & downs". What advice would you give a young woman that seems to focus on the "downs?" Stop focusing on the coulda, woulda and shoulda of life and start focusing on what could be. Every day, every minute that approaches is an opportunity to change what was, and to fight for what could be. Sure we can't change certain situations, people and even scenarios but we can always change our mindset towards it all and also our reaction. I find that listening to daily motivational speeches in the morning helps remind me of all that I can achieve in the day and also it reminds me of the strength that I sometimes forget within me. I believe that we all need a positive stronger inner voice that pushes, challenges and propels us into all that we can be! Some people are lucky to have coaches or a best friend or an amazing partner. But I find that relying on amazing you-tube motivational speeches does that work reliably and with much success. I do not start one day without a motivational speech after my quiet time. I especially love listening to Oprah's gentle and resilient nudge in the morning!
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As a model, how do you respond to some Christians that might believe that "modeling" is not ministry? I believe that we tend to over-complicate and try to limit what ministry should look like. I believe that 'Ministry' is our entire life! How we journey in life, arise every morning, face every situation, how we speak to our friends, loved ones and even people who don't serve us. Our work and also our services to any organization or person. All of these forms of ministry. We were called to shine our Light in Darkness and I see Modeling as a perfect platform to do that for some, not all. Although I also believe that it isn't the situation but the position of the heart that is most key here. Some Christian models pursue modeling for fame, success, wealth and would not admit their own faith in their workplace. I am a commercial and fashion Christian model. I don't model for brands that promotes sex or lust. Because I know who I am and what I want, I also have no problem rejecting shoots that require that without feeling bad or guilty. I see my shoots as an opportunity to love on people, to teach them the truest and deepest ways of being human again - to love and to be kind. I see my shoots and projects as opportunities to share laughter and joy in a non-obscene and worldly way. I just love sharing the presence of God with others without being overly preachy and I love it when Daddy God shows up on set to bring peace, calm, Joy and especially a burst of creativity on set where there would've been chaos, gossiping, second-guessing and all that jazz. And often, it leads to conversations about my faith and what I believe in. So yes I think Modeling can be a form of ministry for those whose eyes are set on the heart of God and what He is doing rather than for those seeking fame, success and wanting validation or acceptance. If God can use people in prisons to form ministries than who are we to limit and Box where God can or cannot operate in? Please share with our readers, why it is important to "embrace yourself?" Well biblically, I believe that if we are temples of His spirit then we ought to feel proud and content as we would if we were given complete management over a new church building. I would want to do it up beautifully on the inside and on the outside and focus on building an amazing place where people can come and worship and have powerful encounters with Daddy God. Similarly, I think it's important to look after our physical body that we have been given. To eat healthily and to exercise to keep it fit that we may present it gloriously to all but it doesn’t just stop there. I truly believe in working on ourselves on the inside too. This is where it’s so important to work on our emotions, our spirit which is a big part of our self-talk, our day to day thoughts and beliefs. To make sure that they help build us so we flow as fountains of love to all that meet us. Being kind, patient, fervent in our faith and to stand for justice for those marginalized etc. All of these make up the one thing - embracing ourselves and honoring the temples we have each been given. Without that, we will not understand how to honor, love and respect others in their walk. Are there any other ventures you would like to pursue in the near future? Yes, I want to set up a TV channel where people can talk about their real struggles and show the world that we all go through similar stuff and it's not the end of the world and that there is support out there and that we can help each other grow and get through tougher times together. I would also want to pursue setting up a recreational space as hubs across London and the world for the trendy Christian community to meet and have amazing Godly encounter type events happen throughout the week to help build community and grow stronger bonds as they meet and get to know each other.
I was all about the parties, the drinking and the frivolous fun the world can o fer before I gave my life to Christ 6 years ago. And throughout my very short time with Christ, I've realized that this love story they call the Gospel is truly about displaying unconditional love to the least deserving. To reconcile those who feel least deserving of it back to the only one ever in our lives who is most qualiďŹ ed to judge us but doesn't. In fact, He never does. And more people need to hear this, understand it and really hold it close to their hearts when facing their brokenness, and the imperfection in others. This very knowledge broke every chain that held me back from pursuing, knowing and loving this God who have His all to say I am His, unconditionally... 45
Gugulethu Nkutha
Coming from South Africa to His Favor Winter 2018
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I have a weekly prayer call every Wednesday. I
also have a You-tube channel featuring special guests giving their testimony on the power of prayer, and how pray works in their lives. I am also leading a year-long corporate fast called the 2018 Expectations Fast. Melissa Jackson changes. I believe that my ministry is unique because ministry wasn’t my goal, being closer to God was. By delighting myself in Him, healing, love, joy, ministry and so much more has been added unto me. Through this process, I have lost over 90 pounds.
Tell us what makes your ministry "unique"? Melissa: My ministry was birthed through overcoming a food addiction. All of my life I had struggled with being overweight. By the age of 26, I was on the verge of being 300 pounds. My breaking point came when I was walking up a flight of stairs leading to my apartment and I began to have heart attack symptoms. I knew that I had hit rock bottom and needed to make a lifestyle change. I knew that only God could help me get to the root of my issues and overcome my addiction. I was desperate for God to intervene, and the way to get His attention was through fasting and praying. So that’s what I did consistently for a year. During this process I had lost over 50 pounds. Then, one day my mother approached me about starting a prayer call, and that’s when everything started taking off in ministry. As a result of my internal and external change, it inspired others around me to become closer to God, and make their own lifestyle
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How do you want listeners to feel after you have finished leading them into "worship"? Margaret: I want them to feel the presence of God overwhelmingly and experience His Glory and Power, leaving them Refreshed, Renewed, Restored, Revitalized and Reminded that He’s forever with them. Please share with our readers, why it is important to have the support of your mother (even in ministry)? Melissa:I am so blessed to have my mother. She is truly a gift from God! Her unconditional love and support have shaped and molded me into who I am today, and who I am to become. I believe that it is imperative to have the support of your parent(s). God has given them insite through wisdom and discernment to see obstacles and victories that you are unable to see at the moment. Having a solid support system helps push you into destiny. Everyone wants to gain the rewards of their destiny, but few are willing to put in the work to get there, and lack the support of others. For every successful person you admire, know that there is someone
Margaret & Melissa JacksoN
Mommy, Me And Ministry behind the scenes helping them get there. I am grateful that my mom has always been there cheering the loudest for me even when she was tired. She diligently supports me in the best and worst of times. My mom continues to speak purpose and destiny into me even when I feel like giving up at times. I am grateful for her seeing past my brokenness and pushing me towards success. She truly covers and embodies love.
What advice would you give a new mother that may fear that she will not be "good" at motherhood? Margaret: The advice I would give a new mother is this……Trust God in the process of raising their child/ children and leave the What’s, Why, When’s, How’s and Where’s to the Lord. Raise them up to know the Lord. Read bible stories to them early and teach them how to pray daily. Be the example to them that’s a reflection of God, so they will have a template of what that looks like. Know that you will make mistakes along the way but make your confession to the Lord, get back up and dust yourself off. Stay focused on the task at hand. Tell yourself repeatedly, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me”, Philippians 4:13 Are there any other ventures you would like to pursue in the near future? Margaret: As a wardrobe stylist also, I continue to grow my business by providing fashion advice, and select clothing for public figures and those in the entertainment industry Melissa: I would like to pursue writing, furthering my education in ministry, missions, and eventually having a television show centered around the power of prayer.
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I am a Tea Party Host. It’s a Tea Party geared for women of all cultures that allows them to be poured back into through spoken words that encourages, inspires and refreshes them~ Margaret Jackson 49
“Finding Purpose in Peril” By: Anissa Stewart
The beauty of HF Magazine is that it recognizes those unsung warriors of faith and favor, who may not be well-known or famous, but deinitely known well by God… Therefore, I have been aforded the opportunity to celebrate my childhood “Church” friend, Pastor Charlena Croutch; one of my personal “SHEROS”. She has consistently exhibited extraordinary strength, unsurmountable faith and bravery, while carrying a ‘very heavy’ anointing. She is powerful preacher, whose testimony will challenge you to never give up on yourself or loved ones… I met her over 40 years ago in New York, where we attended “Free & Independent Church” pastored by the late great Bishop S. Stewart. We established a life-long friendship that has withstood the test of time; being there for each other through many celebrations and challenges. Growing up, I can remember her being very strong willed and fearless; a leader in her own right. Charlena was the one we were afraid to “cross” because she was bossy and the ighter in the group! She states, “Everyone who knew me as a child, would probably say that I was a bad little girl who was always ighting students and teachers at school, in church (yep, even during service) or wherever.” But what most of us didn’t know was, like so many others, she was a victim of molestation, and ighting became her coping mechanism, fueled by her anger. “Admittedly, there were times I just wanted to hurt someone, or defend and protect myself from people I thought were intentionally trying to hurt me.” But, God had major plans for Charlena; turning her peril into purpose, while using her attributes as tools to advance His kingdom. Like Peter, God made her into His bold soldier; a defender of the gospel! “Called to serve and be used by God” is deinitely an understatement. Her 1st ministry is her husband, Franklin B. Croutch and their 3 handsome sons: Anthony, Jayden and Bernard. This powerhouse, pastors the “Refuge Citadel of Hope” Church, in Roosevelt, NY, with her husband. As a community activist, she serves as the VP of the Board of Ed. (ironically, the same district she used to ight teachers in). It is her desire to “inluence meaningful public policy, with outcomes resulting in a positive efect and the public’s trust”. Some other credentials include: being a RN, Gospel recording artist (“Survivor” 2006), a member of CCFM (under the leadership of Bishop Michael & Pastor Malinda Blue) and various
organizations including the N.A.A.C.P. She attributes her spiritual and natural success, along with her ability to maintain a sense of balance, to the favor of God, topped with much prayer, fasting and consecration. “That’s how I get direction, strategies and keep my gifts stirred.” Charlena hasn’t gotten to this point in life without her share of hard work, peril and suferings that would have made the average person fold. However, she uses her experiences to fuel her faith; experiences like being miraculously healed from blindness the day before surgery, to experiencing the joy of seeing her baby clapping in her womb during an ultrasound, after being told that she would never have another child. Pastor Croutch believes walking in obedience to God’s call is vital! To walk in disobedience puts the individual in jeopardy of being severely punished. When God called her to preach, like Jonah, she ran in the opposite direction; not only leaving her church, but moving out of NY! Because of this, she began to experience frequent periods of blindness. One day, while driving with her son in the car, she nearly crashed into a building. She was then diagnosed with pseudo tumor cerebra. However, she knew the root cause of the problem was her disobedience. So, the Sunday before she was scheduled to have surgery she went to church and surrendered her “Yes”! After that, God immediately healed her! “I am a witness that when we live a life of obedience, it shows God that we love Him (John 14:21), causing Him to respond with blessings and favor!” Preaching was one thing, but she soon found herself pastoring by default. The Lord called her to pastor her father’s church, during a very diicult time in her faith walk. Having just relocated from NC back to NY to help her parents, the enemy launched an attack to destroy the ministry. It was then God began commissioning her to pastor the church. Although God’s word was conirmed several times, she struggled with inner and outer biases against women in leadership. However, her prior experience taught her it was better to obey God, than man! “So here I was dealing with bias, inheriting a damaged ministry; not to mention the devastation my wounded family was experiencing, and God wanted me to pastor?” Satan wanted her to believe that she was going to fail! But, she chose to believe in purpose over peril, and watched in faith as God healed her family and the ministry.
Charlena credits who she is today, to the woman that inspires her most, her mother, Evang. Mary Hamlin. She considers her “the perfect example of a loving wife, mother, prayer warrior and courageous woman of strength and fortitude; enduring hardness as a good soldier! I want her to be proud of me and know that her love, prayers, sowing and faith in me are not in vain.” One of her favorite scriptures is John 14:12 because it airms to her that as long as we walk by faith, God’s power working through us is limitless! It is truly inspiring to see what the Lord has done in the life of Pastor Croutch! It is my hope that her testimony will empower and encourage you to intentionally strive to walk in obedience and favor, knowing that you too, can move FROM PERIL TO PURPOSE!
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Contact Information: Pastor Charlena Croutch Refuge Citadel of Hope Church 15 Henry Street, Roosevelt, NY 11575 (516)451-2273 www.charlenacroutchministries.org
Pastor Charlena Croutch
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W i L s o N
F R a N K i e
When we study 2 Timothy 3: 16-17, we see that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” However, the road to righteous competency is attained through the focus, attention, and obedience. During this short series on weightlifting, I want to address how learning the art of focus can open your opportunity to truly experience God in a powerful way. When looking up the definition, focus has been defined as “a center of interest or activity” and “a condition in which something can be clearly apprehended or perceived.” Have you ever tried to read something and your mind was somewhere else? By the time you’ve finished reading once, you had to start over because you weren’t really paying enough attention to what you were reading. You missed the point or the message in what you were trying to read. This is common but does not need to be acceptable. Too often in life, we accept the minimum as opposed to the maximum. The end result is not just us giving God our minimal focus but more so, we miss our chance to receive his maximum blessing.
“Let us lay aside every weight…let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus…(Hebrews 12:1-2).” “Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead… (Philippians 3:12-14). The Bible inspires us on multiple accounts to focus and be diligent in our pursuit of righteousness. So how do we master the art of the zone and give more focus and attention to God? First things first, if you truly love God make time to love him. Love is patient, love is kind, love does not insist upon its own way (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). This means you have to deny your own selfishness and create new habits for yourself.
Frankie C. Wilson Jr. is an award-winning syndicated radio host and national speaker from Dallas, Texas. In addition to his busy schedule, he is one of the newest contributors to His Favor Magazine. Frankie is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in General Psychology in addition to his Master's in Divinity (MDiv) and Masters in Business Administration (MBA). Frankie is founder of The Giving Project 501c3 which feeds up to 1,000 people a year and is dedicated to his message of selfownership, discipline and success.
www.MrFrankieWilson.com @MrFrankieWilson (Instagram, Facebook & Twitter)
Never accept defeat! “We are more than conquerors through him that loves us (Romans 8:37).” When learning to “press” you must adopt an attitude of determination. Just because you miss a service or forget to read your daily word once or twice, does not mean you have an excuse to quit! Your soul and spirits prosperity are at risk! Mastering the art of focus may not be an overnight thing, but God is worth it. When you are able to achieve this level of focus, you will be better positioned to receive a clear understanding of what God is wanting from you in prayer, your studies and etc. Be Blessed~
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The Bible is God’s Word! By His Favor Columnist: Rich Wessenberg
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, The Bible is the #1 Best Selling book all-time, 5 billion printed, and translated in over 300 different languages. In-addition, The Bible is the only book in the world that claims to be God’s Word. If you never heard it before, The Bible is God’s Word; isn’t that just the greatest thing you ever heard! How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Psalm 119:103
After studying The Bible for 34 years, hearing The Bible is God’s Word never gets old. I have kept growing in His Word all these year, but more Importantly, I keep seeing God do great things! God’s blessings cannot be overstated.
Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight. Psalm 119:77
God cares about you every moment of every day. It’s one thing to say I believe in God and it’s another to grow in His Word. Learning God’s Word is the next step everyone takes to build a closer relationship with God. Psalm 119 illuminates this great truth like no other book found in The Bible. In all 176 verses of Psalm 119, the Word of God is mentioned and the benefits.
Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. Psalms:1,2
God’s Word is truth. Everyone found in The Bible who had a close relationship with God acknowledged the truth of His Word. When we acknowledge truth, then the eyes of understanding become enlightened, beginning a closer relationship with God, our heavenly Father. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes. Psalm 119:135
The Bible is God’s Word is one of the greatest realities in this world a person can experience. Even the Guinness Book of World Records recognizes The Bibles impact on the world. It’s the all-time #1 Best Seller! As we continue to grow in His Word, we will grow in a closer relationship with God our Heavenly Father, which will lead to His increased blessings in our lives daily. This Rich Wessenberg is the Author of Top Selling book “Treasures is the truth of God’s Word, and settled in Heaven, long, of the Believing Heart” which shows how to build a strong long ago. believing heart, is available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble; For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Psalm 119:89
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Follow Rich on Twitter @richwessenberg
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Ronnette Harrison
Always There
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