MAY 2018
Christian Magazine
ARE YOU SINGLE? Alia Worthy
#METOO SPIRITUALLY
SPEAKING MINISTER PATRICK
YOUR REAL OPPONENT Bishop CLARENCE POPE
REMEMBERING
OUR MOTHERS BRIANNA TRIPLETT
MARRIAGE MATTERS
ELDER RD ANDERSON-BAILEY
MARRIAGE, IQ & YOU
Pastor
Darrell fairer
Time to Grow!
CONTENTS Pastor Darrell fairer
ISSUE 29
MAY 2018
18
COVER STORY
4
4 #METOO (SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING) Donna Renay Patrick 6 FOUNDERS PAGE Pastors Greg & Sharina George 8 MARRIAGE, EQ & YOU Elder RD Anderson-Bailey 10 NEVER SACRIFICE PRINCIPLES... Leslie Elia, Financial Article 12 ARE YOU SINGLE Alia Worthy, Single & Saved 14 SPRING BACK INTO SHAPE Angela Mosley, Physical Health 16 YOUR REAL OPPONENT Bishop Clarence Pope, Men to Men
18 COVER STORY
Pastor Darrell Fairer ‘It’s Time to Grow!”
Minister Donna Renay Patrick
10
22 HELP! I’VE FALLEN.... Evang. Carmella Hill, Mental Health 24 GROW UP! Bronsen Landrum, Feature Article 26 REMEMBERING OUR MOTHERS Brianna Triplett, Precious Oill
LESLIE ELIA
24
28 MOTHER Ruth C. Dept, Poetry Corner 28 TEEN CORNER Taylor Hauser & Archi Alexander
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MINISTER BRONSEN LANDRUM
KingdomChristianMagazine
Minister Donna Renay Patrick
#METOO
Spiritually Speaking
The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever. (Isaiah 40:8, NASB) I already know what you’re or moral issues related to atrocities thinking as you gasp: “Donna was a committed again women. But there is a victim?” “What happened?” “Where?” #MeToo movement in the spirit realm “When”? “Did you tell anyone?” “Who that I’d like to address. When was the last was responsible?” “What did you do time you seriously thought about your about it?” “It must have been terrible adoption into the family of Jesus Christ, for you!” Lately we have seen the above and the benefits that come with it? When hashtag phrase amplified coming from a child is happily removed from the foster women who have gone public with their care system and placed with a permanent experiences of being sexually harassed adoptive family, certain wonderful by men across Hollywood and the benefits now belong to that child; the entertainment industry, political circles, safety and security of a place to call home, the sports world, the media, halls of the unconditional love of parents, the academia, the business world, etc. A few companionship of new siblings, perhaps years ago we saw it highly-publicized a new school to make new friends, and involving a well-known pastor of a mega a host of other perks that being part of a church. But there is a #MeToo movement family can bring. When my niece was that I haven’t heard anyone talking about. born many years ago my Mother decided, We have heretofore equated the “Nobody is going to raise my grandchild #MeToo movement to ongoing social but me!” Not only did my Mother want my niece to grow up in our family, but she wanted to ensure that she received every benefit of being part of a loving home – and my Mother made good on that. As believers in God, the Father of Jesus Christ, we have #MeToo moments, too – LOTS of them! They are benefits that come to us based upon our relationship with Him! In Genesis 12:1-2 God told Abram to leave his country and his people and go to a land that God would show him. Then God told him that He would (1) make his name great, (2) He would bless him, and (3) Abram would BE a blessing. #MeToo! Paul wrote to us in Galatians 3:29 that we belong
to Christ, and as such, we are Abraham’s Abraham is yours and mine! #MeToo! an angel ahead of the Israelites to Promised Land. God instructed because if they did, He would and an adversary to their in Deuteronomy 28:13, Moses to the children of Israel will be theirs when they that as long as they walk make them the head would be above, and What am I heir, and a daughter of Jesus the good news deep in your spirit promises of God for believers in they are for you,
heir. That means what God promised to We see in Exodus 23:22 that God sent guide them on their journey to the them to obey His representative be an enemy to their enemies adversaries. #MeToo! Finally, is God’s messenger speaking concerning the blessings that obey Him. He says to them in obedience, God will and not the tail; they not beneath. #MeToo! saying? As Abraham’s blood-bought son or Christ, you can plant found in His Word and say, “MeToo.” The were not only written biblical history, too!
Donna Renay Patrick is a transformational speaker, award-winning author, musician/choir director, and worship leader. She has authored two devotionals focused on making worship a lifestyle, At All Times, and It’s In Your Praise. Recently, she co-authored a devotional for women in the workplace entitled, Be Refreshed. She often teaches in three areas where she is most passionate: The priority of worship, knowing your purpose, and effective leadership. Visit her website at https://donnarenaypatrick.com. Follow her on social media: Facebook: Donna Renay Patrick, Author Twitter: @DonnaRPatrick Instagram: Donnarenaypatrick LinkedIn: Donna Renay Patrick, M.A.
CEO
Jesus
THE FOUNDERS
Publisher
Xcellence Publications
Founders
Pastor Greg George Pastor Sharina George
Chief Editor
Sharina George
Editor
Angela Wachsman
Graphic Designer Xcellence Marketing
Cover Photo Jeff Lawson
Contributing Writers
Donna R. Patrick RD Anderson-Bailey Leslie Elia Alia Worthy Angela Mosley Carmella Hill Clarence Pope Brianna Triplett Taylor Hauser Archi Alexander Ruth C. Dept Bronsen Landrum
Genesis 1:28
Happy Mothers Day!!! As we take the time to remember our mothers, we understand this is priceless job. All the duties of a good mother many times go unnoticed but it’s in the time of the year we can give special recognition for all she does. In the time that we live in mothers come in different forms. Spiritual mothers, church mothers, adopted mothers, God mothers and natural birth mother. Whoever that special person may be in your life, give them an act of appreciation from your heart that says, “I love you and thank you for all that you do.” Don’t let this be the only time but make it memorable. Blessings as you read this awesome magazine. God bless you, Pastors Greg & Sharina George All rights are reserved and no part of this publication can be copied or reproduced without permission from Xcellence Publications LLC.
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Prayer
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1 Thess 5:17 Pray without ceasing
MARRIAGE MATTERS
MARRIAGE, EQ & YOU Elder RD Anderson-Bailey, MFT
“Emotionally Intelligent Couples are intimately familiar with each other’s world!” -Dr. John Gottman In relationships, there is a term called Emotional Intelligence (EI), also known as Emotional Quotient (EQ). Each relationship is uniquely forming Emotional Intelligence of the individuals involved. The EI, or EQ as defined by Psychologists John Mayer and Peter Salovey, is a composite of Self-Awareness (Knowledge of your Strengths, Struggles and Personal Power), Other-Awareness (Empathy & Servitude), Self–Management (Behavioral Self-Control, Resilience & Integrity), and Relationship Management (Communication, Conflict Management and Bond-building). Understand that this composite is informed by our formative years after birth. We are taught as children to be kind to others and to share our beloved toys or snacks with others. We are also molded into adults during high school years; here is where we form opinions and views on life and begin to shape our role in it. We then mature and learn life lessons that are the sum total of our experiences in relational transactions. These experiences or relational transactions cover many areas. In marriage, these transactions are often more intimate and essentially more impactful than any other relationship categorically. Here are a few areas of transaction that married couples navigate frequently: Emotional, Financial, Physical, Mental and Spiritual. In each category, we are likely to experience a deposit of information that influences how we respond or react to one another in any given circumstance. Sometimes the emotional reactions are centered upon lack or threat of lack. But the reactions can also be based upon past experiences. Here is where we drop anchor and explore the necessity of a healthy EQ as it relates to marriage and YOU! Marriage is a unique culmination of two individual EQ’s, informed by varying experiences and housed instantaneously under one roof. The goal of marriage, in this sense, is to meld two EQ’s into one happy, healthy Marital EQ. Doing so requires healthy individual EQ’s as a viable base for the marriage. Without this, a marriage may have a tumultuous path ahead. In part, because in the early stage of Marriage, “Self” is very present, and depending on the age and duration of singleness of each partner, “Self” may be more pronounced than in that of a younger married couple. The reason for this is that the couple who married at an older age may have a lengthier history of relational transactions than that of the younger. Couples are going to experience highs and lows, but the couple that doesn’t have healthy
individual EQ’s will have to undergo a process of forming the individual EQ (to reduce or eliminate the deficits) and the marital EQ simultaneously. That could potentially yield a rocky road of hurt, misunderstanding and additional growing pains. So what does a healthy Marital EQ consist of? It begins with the willingness to explore your self-awareness: Know who you are and own “it,” your personal power. This is especially important because you don’t become married to gain your identity. You bring your identity to the marriage and grow into the kingdom spouse you were meant to be. After you’ve explored and can stand in your self-awareness, you’ll need to be willing to assess and re-evaluate your “otherawareness.” This is especially important because marriage is the intentional daily self-denial and servitude for the benefit of the other (i.e., the mutual covering of one another). My challenge to you is that you begin to explore these areas this month. Read this Verse, Ephesians 4:32, and we’ll explore self-management and relationship management in next month’s article.
Marriage, EQ & You By Eld. R. D. Anderson-Bailey, MFT
@RelationshipDecoder
@TheRelationshipDecoder
www.RelationshipDecoder.com
Leslie Elia Life Leadership
Never sacrifice principles for money or possessions “Don’t set your goals by what other people deem important” from The Prince and the Pauper Principle 11 from Financial Fitness says “Never sacrifice principles for money or possessions. Be honest, keep your integrity, and keep your priorities in the right order” That reminds me so much of Matthew 16:26 “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” This is also in Mark 8:36. Let’s look at three essential values that will help you in your quest for prosperity without losing your soul. One: Maintain your autonomy or freedom to choose what is right. Ways your autonomy are taken away from you is through debt, allowing freedoms to be taken away (always vote), and ignoring God’s word. Two: Stick to your purpose. Do what is right and what is important. Revisit your goals and dreams list. Make corrections if necessary. Goals can change. Always revise if necessary. Three: Achieve Mastery. Become an expert at what you do. If you read Malcolm Gladwell books, he has studied that it takes about 10,000 hours to become a master at something. The best piano player, the best basketball player, the best businessman, the best bowler have all put in at least 10,000 hours. Do not put in 500 hours of something only to go and chase the next shiny object. Principle 12 of Financial Fitness takes number 11 and expands. “Do the work to gain mastery in what you do” which is the ultimate way to invest in yourself. It is the only way to financial success. To do this, take the action step of implementing the principles you have learned so far and never compromise them. As an example, as I am working through these 47 principles myself in my leadership business I still have to take
Financial Article May 2018
The Magic Green Box on odd jobs when I want to hit a particular financial goal. I cannot tell you how demoralizing it can be in my 50’s and have to clean out a friend’s chicken coop for money or to take on an evening babysitting job like I did when I was a teenager. However, paying off a debt early has no better feeling and the stinky coop cleaning suddenly becomes nothing more than another way to attain my goals. What will you do this week that is moral, legal and righteous to achieve your financial goals? Attend a seminar, read a book (better yet, read THE book), cut out a couple of the nonsense TV shows you may be prone to watch, put your goals list where you can see it daily, and involve your whole family in your goals so that they understand where your heart is as you build a legacy you will be proud of.
For more information about obtaining the Finance Kit that will aid you in your journey, please contact Leslie at ironleslie@sbcglobal.net or call 440-591-8750.
Are you Single?
A
re you single? Let’s take a few moments and think about that. Are you really single? Singleness is such a vital time in really learning to prepare and deal with the foundational work before getting married. It’s in our singleness that we learn what being single is truly about. Single in and of itself means to be whole, complete, and fulfilled in Christ. What better time to be able to grow in wholeness and fulfillment than during our singleness. I believe that some wisdom comes from learning from the lives of others. Let’s look at Leah’s life. Genesis 29: 31- 35 says, “When the LORD saw that Leah was unloved, He opened her womb; but Rachel was barren. So, Leah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Reuben; for she said, ‘The LORD has surely looked on my affliction. Now, therefore, my husband will love me.’ Then she conceived again and bore a son, and said, ‘Because the LORD has heard that I am unloved, He has therefore given me this son also.’ And she called his name Simeon. She conceived again and bore a son, and said, ‘Now this time my husband will become attached to me, because I have borne him three sons.’ Therefore, his name was called Levi. And she conceived again and bore a son, and said, ‘Now I will praise the LORD.’ Therefore, she called his name Judah. Then she stopped bearing.’
If we’re not careful, we’ll eventually find ourselves, like Leah, going in continual cycles. We’ll constantly look for others, including future spouses, to fill voids that only God was created to fill. The danger in not being complete and whole before marriage is we end up going in marriage putting unrealistic expectations on spouses that only God can meet. Leah had found herself in a place of discontentment. Leah had constantly demanded love from everyone else without taking the time to love herself. Until we’re able to truly identify with Christ and walk in the fact that we’re complete in Him and His love, we’ll constantly make withdrawals and demands of others without being able to deposit into others, including our relationships.
Alia Worthy
Alia Worthy What you’re unwilling to confront in your singleness will expose itself in your marriage. Leah had become so focused on Jacob filling her void of being unloved that she had totally neglected the blessing of children. What fails to be resolved in singleness will find itself lingering in marriage and could potentially affect the marriage. What if Leah had addressed these things during singleness? In what areas do you find yourself incomplete? What patterns and cycles have you been able to identify during your singleness? It’s in your singleness that God really wants to break generational curses, heal your identity and you of any potential past wounds. In what areas do you need to be single, meaning whole and complete in Christ? It’s God’s will and desire that we not only know Him but would be aware of our fulfillment and completeness in Him. Leah finally understood that if she had never received the approval or love from others, she was already loved, valuable, cherished, and accepted by God. I pray that you continue to grow in complete fullness in Christ. that you’re able to continually give it.
How to Be Single? 1. Know who you are in Christ! 2. Connect with those who see your value. 3. Grow in experiencing God’s love.
Spring back into shape
It’s spring time By Minister Angela Mosley
This month I want to challenge you to spring back into shape. This means you have to incorporate new “Life Style” changes. To do that, one must look at their mindset. Where is it? Can it be changed? Are you open and willing to give up your way of thinking and accept a new way, a new way that has been proven to get great results? Since we want these great results, we must look at it spiritually and that is putting on the new man (or woman). In Colossians 3:10 (KJV), “And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him.” God wants you to be renewed in your mind and this is a continuous process. This process demands our cooperation in renewing the way we think with true knowledge. “After the image of Him that created him” means we are constantly being remoulded (remoulded means to change the appearance, structure or character of) into the full knowledge to become like Him. That means it is a process of being made new in the likeness of our Creator, so that the image of God who created us is the pattern. Let’s begin with addressing new “Life Styles and Weight Loss tips” that will “Spring you into shape.” A practical weight loss goal is to lose one to three pounds per week and four to 12 pounds per month. Next, avoid the following foods: Fast foods, fried foods, luncheon meats/pork and sugared drinks. Remember the following: Do not eat past 7:30 pm; eat as many raw vegetables as possible; eat fruit for snacks; drink two cups of green tea daily; drink eight cups of water each day before anything is sweetened and investigate how you can do a gentle body cleanse. Lastly, the following exercise tips will get you closer to your weight loss goals: incorporate cardio four times a week for 30 minutes. Example, fast walks,
“
This month I want to challenge you to spring back into shape. This means you have to incorporate new “Life Style” changes.
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cycling, swimming, aerobic and Zumba classes, et cetera. Next, incorporate non-cardio two times per week for 20 minutes. Example, weight lifting, pushups, sit ups, et cetera. Please note, to benefit from this article, you must address and adhere to all the above lifestyle changes and tips. Each one plays a significant part in your success.
Let’s look at our closing encouraging scripture in Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Let the words of these scriptures minister to your mind, body and soul. Be Blessed.
Men to Men
Bishop Clarence Pope
Your REAL Opponent
“F
or we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places…” As a citizen of God’s kingdom in this society, it is critical for
me to understand exactly what the scripture means to me in my walk with God and among men (humanity). We are called and anointed to be servant leaders. Every man in the kingdom of God is called to lead in some capacity. It is vital that we understand this above all else. As a man of God, I submit my will to God so that the course I’m on and all the results from my decision-making, I’m able to say that God is the source. I want to encourage our brothers everywhere to be mindful of who we REALLY are contending with in our day-to-day walk. We cannot be used effectively by God if we are distracted in our efforts. The people we encounter, the bosses, neighbors and family members we do life with are not our enemies. The ministers and church members that disappoint us are not the problem. Even the individuals that(seemingly) have been ordained unto ungodliness and have set themselves against us are not actually our real opponent. After understanding who our enemy is, we must understand what his devices or methods of operation are, what his characteristics are, and HOW he may come to be able to use them to undermine Gods’ plan for our lives. Our assignment is to convey Gods’ love to our world, to minister to others so they might develop in their relationship with God and fulfill their assignment in the earth. This is best done through example. That’s where Jesus comes into play. We are to take His yoke upon ourselves and learn of Him. We are to follow
our leaders as they follow Him (His example). Our world (family, neighbors and co-workers, etc.,) should experience God’s qualities through interactions and encounters with us; His mercy, His patience (longsuffering), His compassion and most importantly His love... without condition. Being a man, these qualities are not always reflex. I sometimes must work at them a bit to really convey them according to God’s will and way. Some people can be challenging to love and extend these qualities to consistently. Some just do NOT mean us well. Jesus had similar issues to deal with during His earthly walk and He prevailed. He KNEW that the adversary was behind the ill treatment He received, and He never fought back nor gave less than was expected of Him. In doing so, He brought many souls to salvation. Obeying the Father, no matter where it took Him or what it cost Him. We are not of this world. We do not walk by its rules. We do not operate according to its principles. Fundamentally, in our walk of faith, we must believe that what God is calling, we can give to him. Man failed God through his will(disobedience). Man pleased God through His will (obedience). We can be who God wants us to be, who Christ died for us to be, men of God, godly leaders in our homes, and in our communities. We do not shrink from the opposition; we walk headlong into our destinies, knowing that is the will of God concerning us. God uses saved people to save people. Be that example of Christ in every arena of your life, knowing that adversity is part of the walk, but He always causes us to triumph! There is a Devil that opposes God and all who love and obey Him. He roams, seeking whom he may devour. He will use ANYONE that will allow him to use them, ANYONE! Love everyone, hate sin. God saved the world with love and He is still doing so today. God bless
Bishop Clarence Pope Higher Hope Ministries 9114 Miles Park Ave. Cleveland, OH 44105
Pastorcpope@gmail.com
May 2018 Cover Story
time to grow! Pastor Dairer Fairer
Senior Pastor Greater Faith Bible Tabernacle
Hebrews 6:1 (KJV) Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, This is such a great topic. As God would have it we are currently in a series entitled “MORE” where our theme verse is taken from a passage of scripture that begins with Hebrews 6:1 which states, Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, The word “perfection” is defined as, “complete or maturity.” Paul lays out a powerful argument for Christian Maturity. The importance of maturity, both naturally and spiritually, is that one grows and develops as God intends. In the natural, when children fail to mature responsibility escapes them. The mark of maturity is not age, but the ability to handle responsibilities. The same is true in the Kingdom of God. When we fail to mature, we are not trusted with greater responsibility. Jesus taught...if you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many. In other words, God says, you have matured enough on one level, I can trust you with more responsibility on a new level. There are always areas of improvement in our relationship with God. We can all pray more, fast more, lead better, serve better, parent better, better serve our spouses. The list can be endless if you ask me. ‘
Photo Credit: Priscilla Marie
The responsibilities regarding the management of our body, mind, and resources can be endless and subjective. For example, the natural responsibility or a single parent home may be different than the natural responsibility of say a widower. It is safe to say, without a healthy body or mind one may be hard pressed to serve God as we should. Paul teaches that it is with the mind I serve the law of God. Romans 7:25 A healthy body requires rest, food fuel, exercise and the like. The healthy mind requires stimulation and down time. Paul again teaches us that we should be renewed in the ‘spirit of our minds’. I believe once the mind and body are healthy, we make better choices that effect how we use or conserve resources to take care of our homes, families businesses and the like. 3 John 1:2 (KJV) Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. The primary ways that we use to teach maturity is biblical teaching and modeling what we teach the best we can. In addition to this, we offer specialty classes that are more practical in nature. For example, we just graduated our latest class from Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. These classes teach budgeting, credit repair and even investments.
Greater Faith Bible Tabernacle 391 Edison Ave Buffalo, NY 14215
Pastor Darrell Fairer Senior Pastor
Your Invited To Come Worship With Us!
@greaterfaith_gfbt
@GreaterFaithBuffalo
Mental Health CORNER Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!
- Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health Issues
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. There is no time like the present to address mental health issues. There was a famous line in a commercial that stated, “Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” There are three things that one can glean from this statement. First, there is a recognition that one has fallen, which implies the person was once standing or in an upright position. Secondly, there is a realization that one needs assistance from someone or something outside of him/herself. Thirdly, there is a request for help. We can take these principles and apply them to how we can approach mental health issues.
Recognizing Signs & Symptoms of Mental Health Issues One may ask or wonder, “Am I going crazy?” “Am I losing my mind?” Many emotions may arise from thinking about these questions, such as feeling hopeless, helpless, confused, doubtful, and the like. The fact that a question of one’s sanity is being raised speaks volumes and possibly sheds light about something that may be going on.
It is easy to ignore mental health issues expecting them to go away. Yet, continuing to ignore these issues may do more
harm than good. It has been stated that what’s not faced, (i.e., ignored) cannot be dealt with, (i.e., addressed). Charles Stanley, in his book entitled, “Becoming Emotionally Whole,” talked about there being a tendency to repress, stifle, or drift away from emotions. Repression deals with refusing to admit one is experiencing feelings. This is unhealthy and can lead to behaviors that may harm others directly or indirectly. Stifling deals with refusing to express emotions. This is unhealthy and may lead to an eruption later in life whether intentionally or unintentionally. Drifting deals with never paying attention to emotions. This is unhealthy and may lead to emotions becoming entrenched and rooted in us. It is clear that not controlling emotions can be detrimental to one’s overall wellbeing. It is encouraged to not ignore emotions as it may lead to greater issues later in life. It is critical to ask oneself if he/she is at risk for experiencing mental health issues. Individuals who have experienced abuse/neglect, witnessed abuse/violence or have a history of these things in the family are at greater risk of experiencing mental health issues. Certain beliefs and experiences may predispose one to becoming an abuser or a victim. Traumatic experiences
Evangelist Carmella Hill
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with supervising credentials (P.C.C.-S). & Founder of Empower to H.O.P.E. Services, LLC.
compounded with prior mental health issues can impact people in ways that they are unable to handle. Some resulting mental health issues after traumatic experiences could be abandonment issues, low self-esteem, a tendency to blame others, difficulties empathizing with others, extreme emotional reactions, poor relationships and boundaries, anger, aggression, and poor coping skills. Asking for and Seeking Help It is beneficial to identify mental health issues as early as possible. However, often there may be a delay in addressing the issues upwards of ten years or more. Although help is still available after such a delay, the treatment may be more challenging, but not impossible. There are many sources of help. There is professional help, such as seeing a licensed mental health clinician, a psychiatrist, or psychologist. There are medical professionals, such as doctors and nurse practitioners. There are spiritual and religious leaders as well, such as pastors and ministers, who may be helpful in addressing issues. No more excuses, there is help!
Mental Health Tips:
•Address red flag issues! Be honest and real with yourself
about your thoughts, feelings and emotions. Be willing to be transparent with yourself!
•Unpack the baggage! We all carry baggage with us from
one situation to the next. However, the impact of that baggage does not have to rule our lives. Begin to unpack those things that are creating more harm than good.
•Desire more for your life! Why not live now? Seize the moment. Work on you and your life will be changed.
The conclusion of the matter As we assess our lives and identify mental health issues, we’ll begin to experience life in a greater, more fulfilled way. We will become more authentic with ourselves and congruent with whom we want to be. Take time now to conduct a self-assessment and address red flag issues now versus later. You will thank yourself for it later! SELAH
Grow up! Matthew 13:23 The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s
word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted! I do NOT have a green thumb. I could Google search ALL the concepts, tips and tricks of a vegetable virtuoso but still “love” a cactus to death. I’m so glad bearing ACTUAL fruit isn’t a requirement for eternal life. The above parable gives us a glimpse of the challenges, realities and expectations people experience when receiving (or trying to receive) the seed, which is God’s Word. So let’s take a closer look at our Scripture as we find out what it takes to Grow Up!
Do You Understand?
In Matthew 13:19, the seed that fell on the footpath...You can’t apply what you don’t understand! Have you used Trigonometry in your life YET? I doubt it! In high school, we were bombarded with information that we can’t use in our everyday life. That should NOT happen at our place of worship. Any Word that goes “in one ear and out the other” becomes fair game for the enemy to take and use against use. If you don’t know you’re healed, forgiven and living without limits through the Word, life can test you, in those very areas, and beat you down. If you don’t understand your Pastor, take notes and ask questions! Don’t leave the house of God with concerns. Ministry leaders are put in place to help you walk out of confusion and doubts and into a closer
Minister Bronsen Landrum walk with God. Also, read a Bible translation you understand. Yes, the King James Version is poetic but the poetry will NOT help you if can’t understand the meaning of the verse. Remember Proverbs 4:7b. In all your getting, GET UNDERSTANDING. Once you understand, you can put it into practice.
Application Grows Roots
In Matthew 13:20-21, the seed on the rocky soil...I heard the Word on Sunday! I made God promises about how I’d begin every day with reading, praying and seeking... then I fell off by Tuesday. It has happened to us all. We fall short. We quote Philippians 2:12b religiously. “Work out your own soul salvation with fear and trembling.” but we don’t read the next verse!
Philippians 2:13
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. God
wants you to grow so badly, that He put Himself in you so He could be consistent IN you even when you fail. (2 Tim 2:13, Rom 8:26) Keep opening yourself up to Him, the One that will teach you, lead you and comfort you. (John 14:26, 16:13) Keep praying that God will give you a hunger and thirst for Him. Keep praying that your roots grow deeper. God answers prayers... ESPECIALLY the ones that ask for more of Him. He will help you clear the ground so you can receive MORE Word.
Too Much In The Way (The Worries of Life)
In Matthew 13:22, the seed that fell among the thorns...The saints need counseling too! I am NOT saying this because I doubt the power of God. I’m saying this because of verse 22. There are people who are so overwhelmed by their problems that the Word of God can’t penetrate their heart. What if, a listening ear and some Godly one-on-one advice helped clear some weeds and thorns so that the seed of God’s Word could be planted? That would be a BREAKTHROUGH! So many of us leave church and come face-to-face with issues that choke out the Word. Do NOT let that be your case. Your next level could be an appointment away. If you need help clearing your world to make space for the Word, reach out and get the help you need! Too Much In The Way (The Deceitfulness of Riches) I used to go fishing with my grandfather. Since we didn’t plan on catching fish with our hands, bait and lures were a must! The job of the bait was to get the fish’s attention, get the fish to bite then get the fish in the boat. Just like that, the lure of money can get your attention then it’ll kill your effectiveness. The lure of money gives you a “false impression”. If you believe that having money provides you with enough security that you no longer need God, you’ve fallen for it. Repeat after me... “I have money! Money does NOT have me!” You don’t have to chase God’s blessing. Instead, His goodness will chase you! Seek Him first and allow Him to add goodness to you.
Thirty, Sixty, Hundred-fold
In Matthew 13:23, an apple has about 7 seeds in it.... which could grow into 7 apple trees. An apple tree grows about 1,000 apples in it’s lifetime. One tree has the power to yield 7,000 trees! Since the beginning, being fruitful and multiplying has been God’s heart for us! He’s given us every tool needed to mature, transform and multiply. He wants us to hear His Word, understand His Word, make space for His Word, prioritize His Word, practice His Word and ask God to work out His Word in you, as you read it. He wants to turn your life into something beautiful and powerful... just listen, right now, He’s calling you to Grow Up!
REMEMBERING Our Mothers Brianna Triplett
I
“I’m sorry. Life is difficult.”
Those were the last five words my mother wrote in a letter addressed to me before committing suicide. I was 15 years old and I held onto that for years; not the letter, but the idea that life was difficult. The bible says to “Honor your father and mother so that you may live long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12.) With Mother’s Day soon approaching, I want what I have learned from my mom to live on and possibly help others because like she shared with me not too long before she committed suicide, “I don’t want my life to be in vain. Even if I can just help one person, that will be enough.” My mother said that she had given her life to Christ in her early teens, but when the waves of life started to toss her around and she cried out to God to not let her drown, she stopped praying when she felt like her cries were being rejected by the only one who could save her. After she passed away, I attended church regularly and tried
to live a surrendered life with hope that life would be a road free of potholes. However, throughout the years I stumbled on my own journey more times than I can count, and I found myself asking, “Why does a good God allow evil?” After studying the scriptures for myself, this is what I found: • John 16:33 NIV, “In this world you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world.” • Psalm 34:19 “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” Life on this earth may be filled with more thorns than rose petals. These thorns may pierce our flesh, but they make us more and more like the Son of God who died upon a cross with a crown of thorns upon his head, demonstrating his love for us in the fact that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8) The same way Christ died for us, we must learn how to constantly die to self. When we stop asking God for what
we think we should have only to get upset when He doesn’t answer, because His will, will be done in our lives, when we finally ask God to align the desires of our hearts with His perfect will, accepting what is and what isn’t just yet, and what may never be, it is then and only then we find true joy. Just knowing that I am not alone in that boat in the middle of the storm, to know that God is in complete control that “Even the winds and waves obey him!” (Matthew 8:23-27) gives me peace that surpasses all understanding. I don’t know what your story is this Mother’s Day. Maybe the mother figure in your life has passed away, or you have a strained relationship, the list can go on. My prayer for you this Mother’s Day is that you would appreciate the person in your life that stepped up to the plate to be a mother to you; that you would not let another day go by without giving your gratitude because tomorrow is not promised. My prayer for you is also to remember that life is difficult, but God is with us through the midst of it all. Continue to seek His face. He has never failed me, I know He never will, and He will never fail you either.
PRECIOUS OIL About Brianna Brianna Triplett currently resides in Lockport NY. Brianna has a master’s degree in Psychology and works as a Children’s Care Manager at Salvation Army. Brianna is a spoken word artist who is a part of Crossover Ministries and is a writer for Kingdom Christian Magazine and an active member of the Chapel at Crosspoint, a nondenominational church in Getzville, NY.
PoetryCORNER MOTHER There are so many ways to call mother, Mother, is a proper way of calling. Mommy, a small one, calling their love one. Mom, a short version, but no less love. Ma, has been called thru out the years, There are pet names, only with love. No matter what we say, we all know the Best friend we will ever have, is one so Dear, the one we call mother.
RUTH C. DEPT
T EEN
YOUNG AND CALLED
CORNER As a teen who is still growing up in the church, I always get told what I am going to be and how I’m going to be when I get older. I mostly hear this from the Lord, but also through other people. For example, my church had a healing service one night and during the healing service one of the women who was there gave me a message from God. She told me she had a message about my name, which is Taylor, if you didn’t know. She said to me, “Your name means mender, healer or severer of things, you know, a tailor.” This meant a lot to me because the previous day, I went out with my church family and we prayed for people on the street and some of the people
Taylor Hauser did not want healing. This was a shock to me. But the woman the next day at the healing service told me that I must be patient when praying for others. She said some people might not want healing or not heal as fast as I want, but don’t be discouraged by it. The whole story goes to show that even as a teen, God still wants to speak to you and has called you to serve Him even if others don’t recognize it. I know to some teens all of this sounds kind of boring. I know that’s how I was when I was younger. But being called by God to work for Him is pretty exciting. Maybe some of you think that adults will look at you funny because you’re young, but in 1 Timothy 4:12 NIV it says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” This shows that no matter how old you are you can praise the Lord and serve Him as well. He calls kids, teens and adults. Maybe some of you are wondering how you know when you’re called. I personally believe that everyone is called to serve the Lord and He has a special job for each person. It’s up to you, though, to pray and ask God what exactly He’s called you to do.
TAYLOR HAUSER
TEEN POWER! There are three things that I consider main keys of life that either make or break you. Those three things are simply discipline, work ethic, and support. We as people living our everyday lives tend to forget these main keys of life. They are what can potentially separate you from other individuals. Your separation can be two things: benefits or downfalls. Your discipline, work ethic, and support could be so intact that it benefits you and brings you up causing your result to be great. Or they can be so unpracticed that your result never reaches its capacity. It is imperative that you practice these three keys. If you don’t, you will always be at fault with yourself. It is up to you as an individual to do so. You must learn to possess
Three keys to inner and outer enhancement the three keys of life to prosper. No one can force you to do it, but it must be a self-minded decision. Discipline in this context means to practice training. Whether it be self-discipline or discipline implemented by another outlet, you must fall under subjection. Having discipline shows others your willingness to follow through. When you’re disciplined, you have the attention of a soldier in combat. You know that you have a goal to complete. Regardless of whatever else is going on, your discipline redirects you. Work ethic is defined as the principle that hard work is intrinsically virtuous or worthy of reward. Your work ethic is what really pushes you. Work ethic gives a boost of dedication to the task. Working hard challenges you to go beyond your comfortability to succeed. You must have a made-up mind that what you’re doing is for the greater good and will do you justice, if you stick to it. Support, the last key. Support is nothing but moral love. It is important to have all kinds of support. Mainly because it builds you up and assures you that what you’re doing is suffice and that you should keep doing it. But you must give support just as much as you receive it. When support is tossed about back and forth, it strengthens your relationship with others and betters your inner morale. A very inspiring young man, Steffahn Maclin, taught my peers and I a key lesson. I don’t know about them, but I can assure you that what he said resonated in my spirit, leading me to further elaborate his teachings. God’s will, I will do just that!
ARCHI ALEXANDER