V.O.I.C.E. WINTER 2016 | digital edition
ED FIR IT ST IO N
VICTORY OVER ISSUES AND CHALLENGES EVERYDAY
In God We Trust
Addicted To The Chase...
What's This Thing Called Gluten?
In God We Must... Trust!
Miraculous story of healing and restoration.
1 in 133 people are gluten intolerant.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONVERSATION VOICE OF CORNER DR. HODGE
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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How do you trust God with all that's going on in the world?
We are a ministry of excellence and are in hot pursuit of impacting the globe for Jesus Christ.
You are not what you have done; you are what you've overcome!
Question of the Day
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Sandra Shares
VOICE OF LIFE
The Voice of Dr. Hodge
Sandra welcomes readers to the first issue of V.O.I.C.E. She challenges us to think about how much we really trust God. She calls us to stand on the Word -- to let go, and let God...!
Ten Steps to a Fulfilled Life
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Tell Me What You Think Inquiring minds want to know your thoughts about each and every issue of V.O.I.C.E. AND... we want you to share and let others know too!
Are you ready?
ON THE COVER
Leave Your Negatives in Your Past Accomplishing what God has called you to do.
REGULARS 05 Conversation Corner 06 Voice of Dr. Hodge
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In God We Trust?! Addicted To The Chase... 10
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00 What is Gluten? 14
08 Voice of Life 09 Shout 14 Voice on Health 20 Voice of Ministry
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SHOUT
VOICE ON HEALTH
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What is Gluten?
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Gluten intolerance is on the rise.
VOICE IN THE WORLD
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Opening of North Campus LPCC brings a breath of fresh air to the Antelope Valley.
LPCC SHOUT Find out what's happening at Living Praise Christian Center -- Outreach events and in the surrounding community at large. Follow SHOUT to stay in the know!
VOICE OF MINISTRY
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Tips to Stay Fit Countdown to the New Year --Get that bod in shape!
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Need an Inspiration to Pray? Prayer warriors unite.
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Bring Back our Girls The Update So how did this horrible act of violence end? Did you track it to the end?
FROM THE EDITOR
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015 is over but we are still experiencing 'new beginnings' like the launch of our new online magazine, V.O.I.C.E. (acronym for Victory Over Issues and Challenges Every day). “VOICE” is a very strong word and synonymous with words and phrases like opinion, expression, power of speech and ability to speak. That’s exactly what this magazine represents. The Prophet Isaiah referred
to John the Baptist as “The voice crying in the wilderness preparing the way of the Lord.” Our outlook is to be the same type of voice…. speaking truth in the wilderness of this time. Our aim is to enlighten you about world and national issues, tips on better living, encouragement, and by all means, keeping us looking to our Heavenly Father. The theme of this issue is Trusting in God. How do
you trust in God when your foundation has crumbled? How do you keep your faith when there seems to be more racial tension and increased wars and home-grown terrorist attacks? How do we trust God when things seem to be getting worse and not better? As Christians, we unequivocally and undeniably MUST trust Him. Period. The end. Last year was “The year of the Supernatural
Manifestation and the beginning of seven years of plenty.” I am standing on that word so vehemently thundered by Dr. Hodge. And you should, too! In 2016, our dreams will be seen. Look for them! I hope you enjoy our very first issue, and we welcome your feedback. We have the victory! So let us let go, and let God! Sandra Allen (Editor In-Chief)
CONTRIBUTORS Editor In-chief Sandra Allen Creative Editor/Design Artist Kynia Starkey Copy Editor Ava Teherani Contributors Frank Williams Terrence Hardge Brenda Robinson Keoni Carew Niki Davis Sandra Allen Photographers Ava Teherani Damion Bryant Online Support John Sibley Marketing Niki Davis EDITOR'S OFFICE Living Praise Christian Center 9200 Owensmouth Avenue Chatsworth, CA 91311 Phone: (818) 709-LPCC voice@livingpraisechurch.org ONLINE SUBSCRIPTIONS Issuu Digital Publishing for Online Magazines www.issuu.com/lpcc_voice
V.O.I.C.E. - VICTORY OVER ISSUES AND CHALLENGES EVERYDAY
EDITORIAL STAFF
SANDRA ALLEN Editor-in-chief
KYNIA STARKEY Creative Editor/ Design Artist/ Social Media
AVA TEHERANI Copy Editor, Photographer
TERRENCE HARDGE Writer
FRANK WILLIAMS Writer
KEONI CAREW Writer
BRENDA ROBINSON
Writer
SANDRA ALLEN Writer, Editor
NIKI DAVIS Writer, Marketing
JOHN SIBLEY Online Support
ADVERTISING Shanan Henry Phone: (818) 709-LPCC shenry@livingpraisechurch.org SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook: www.facebook.com/VOICEMagazine Twitter: www.twitter.com/lpcc_voice Instagram: www.instagram.com/lpcc_voice Email: voice@livingpraisechurch.org
CONVERSATION CORNER QUESTION OF THE DAY:
HOW DO YOU TRUST IN GOD WITH ALL THAT’S GOING ON IN THE WORLD? As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. 2 Samuel 22:31 KJV
T. JONES
LAVONNE LEVINE
Through prayer… is the first thing I do to put my trust in God. I spend a lot of time praying about a matter until I don’t worry about it anymore. My son says, “Mommy, God tells us not to worry and to have faith and hope in him.” Simple answer!
I keep my trust by praising the Lord, by worshipping and keeping in the Word. Through my experience, He has never let me down and has always come through.
RIKKI BROTHERS Coming to church and listening to the Word. During the week, reading the book with some of the sisters here. Turning on my radio and CD player and playing the Word over and over again so He can bless my body and my mind so that I will believe.
ROXANNE MOUZONE I trust in God because I know that He’s faithful. In spite of what the world says, I know that He is real. I’ve seen Him bring me through encounters and situations that only God can do. I don’t know how to do it any other way, but to trust in God with all my heart, my soul and my mind.
Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Proverbs 30:5 KJV
KHALEELAH ABDULLAH By staying focused. When I can’t see my way out, I trust His Word and speak His Word back to myself; and that builds me up. When I’m out of focus, I just start praising Him and loving on Him and He says, “I got you!”
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FROM THE DESK OF DOCTOR HODGE We are a ministry of excellence and are in hot pursuit of impacting the globe for Jesus Christ.
Hello Church Family! This year has breezed past us so fast and we are at the finish line. As you know, our motto for the last months of the year is to finish strong. The secret to any season is the way you begin and the way you end. The beginning of 2015 brought great tragedy to both our personal family and our church family. I believe this hit was meant to derail us from incredible vision and ministry God has entrusted us with. But glory to God! The enemy did not prevail and we are still here making a difference in our community. As your Pastor, I know the importance of rest and renewal, so my wife Pastor Linda and I have attended several conferences that did just that.
The Scriptures record that when the enemy wants to get to the sheep he tries to smite the shepherd so the sheep can be scattered, but his plan failed and we are renewed, refreshed, and on fire for the Lord. I want to encourage you to attend every service you possibly can, because the Lord will be present and His power will rescue, restore, and rejuvenate those who are in the house. The Lord has given me fresh manna to feed the flock and a mandate to take our ministry to its next level. We are a ministry of excellence and are in hot pursuit of impacting the globe for Jesus Christ. I believe the seasons have changed and God has opened the heavens and released an outpour of wisdom, favor, and possibilities that
include concepts, ideas, and witty inventions. The seven years of lean are over and the next seven years of abundance have started. It is time to stop looking at the past and start charging towards our future to recover all. The victory will be ours as we fight the good fight of faith, put seed in the ground, and stay connected to the vision and the visionary. Family, we have come a long way but we are not finished yet. I see a new building for us. I see members owning their own homes and businesses. I see multiple locations in other cities pastored by sons and daughters of Living Praise Christian Center. I see the transfer of wealth and supernatural health being poured out in these next seven years.
It is a new season; it is a new day; there is a fresh anointing coming your way. It is a season of power and authority; it’s a new season and it’s coming to you and me. All I can say is, get ready, a change has come. I am living in my next level and I invite you to join me. I call you blessed! by: Dr. Fred Hodge
VOICE OF LIFE: TEN STEPS TO LIVE A FULFILLING LIFE
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I hope that these steps can change someone’s life and inspire people to believe in themselves and live a happy fulfilling life. You are not what you have done; you are what you have overcome. Keep going!
VOICE OF LIFE: LEAVE YOUR NEGATIVES IN THE PAST Many times, people get way too caught up in their past instead of focusing on their future. One of the worst times to be caught up in the negatives of your past is during a job interview. Sure, all of us who have worked any length of time have had negative experiences at a job. We’ve had supervisors who were rude, fellow employees who lied, clients who did not treat us right, and environments that maybe were not the safest. Since we are human, we all need an outlet to share our experiences, and it may be very appropriate to share our negative job experiences with our friends. However, we should think twice about harping on negatives with a potential employer. As someone who often interviews people for positions, I am often looking to see what positive traits a person can bring to the organization. Additionally, I make it a point to keep an eye out for what I call “red flags”. One of the biggest red flags I look for is a history of bad experiences at previous companies. If a prospective employee has nothing but negative things to say about previous employers, that is a red flag. In such cases, I suspect that if hired, they may bring a negative attitude, problems and complaints to our agency. In truth, when someone has nothing but complaints about previous employers, I wonder if the problem could be with that interviewee instead of those employers. Needless to say, no employer wants to hire someone who they believe will bring
me. Consequently, I was thrilled when XYZ Company offered me a position. I provided ABC Company with a two-weeks notice of my resignation and left them on good terms. This response is more positive, and perhaps more intellectual. This prospective employee might be perceived as more goal-oriented, considerate and responsible — traits that are highly desired and sought after by employers.
problems and a negative attitude into a new position. With that said, I do believe honesty during the interview process is important. Sometimes, it may be more appropriate to just be cautious about where you focus your attention when asked a question.
The Interview As an illustration of this, let us consider the following hypothetical scenario: Interviewer: So why did you leave ABC Company? Interviewee: They really didn’t like me and weren’t giving me enough hours in the department I liked. So I quit them and marched across the street to XYZ Company so I could get more hours to work. This prospective employee might be perceived as selfish and the kind of person to quit the moment their agenda was not accommodated. They also sound as if they like to leave jobs on a bad note. Let’s consider this alternate response: Interviewer: So why did you leave ABC Company? Interviewee: I was really eager to pursue my goals and work in areas that interest
For people being interviewed, I recommend that they first pray, ask God for wisdom, ask Him to direct their words and their steps. During the interview, it is important to be thoughtful about your responses since that person on the other side of the desk is analyzing. Also, be cautious about getting too caught up in discussions about past job failures. Instead, present yourself as someone who is positive and will solve problems instead of bringing them. Sometimes, we just need to let the negatives go. God’s Word is very clear about the fact that we should not be trapped by our past, but instead, we should use our energies to focus on our future in order to accomplish what God has called us to do. I think Paul said it best in Philippians 3:13 – 14:
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. by: Terrence Hardge
SHOUT OUTS... WINTER 2016
Grief Share (13 Sessions)
School of the Super Natural
RockNOW Teen Ministry Open House
January 16 | Our Grief Share: 13-Session program begins at 10:00AM, at the Chatsworth campus.
January 17 | School of the Super Natural with Dr. Fred L. Hodge Jr. at 7:30pm at the Chatsworth Campus.
January 24 | Open House in Chatsworth following the 11:30am service & January 31 in Palmdale following the 11:00am service.
LPCI Graduation
WOVEN Empowerment Seminar
January 31 |Living Praise Christian Institute (LPCI) Graduation at 9:00am in Palmdale & 11:30am in Chatsworth.
February 1 | WOVEN Empowerment Seminar. 6 weekly sessions starting at 7:30pm at the Chatsworth & Palmdale campuses.
WOVEN Just Us Girls
MOVE 7 Week Discipleship
6AM Prayer Monday - Friday
March 3 | Just Us Girls WOVEN service at 6:00pm at the Chatsworth Campus.
March 29 | MOVE 7 Week Discipleship Classes at the Chatsworth Campus & March 30th at the Palmdale Campus. Both start at 7:30pm.
Mon - Fri | 6:00am -7:00am LPCC Prayer Line: All are welcome. Dial in 641-715-3277 Access Code: 263512.
IN GOD WE TRUST
IN GOD WE TRUST Thousands of demonstrators marched in major cities to protest against killings of unarmed black men by police officers.
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ooking back at 2014, it started with a bang. Pastor Hodge set the mandate as “The year of the Double-Double”! It was slated as double ministry and double the blessings; we were all chanting and expecting the “Double-Double”. However, a lot of us endured a double dose of adversity. Although, we believed for double blessings, Satan was working overtime to try to offset the double blessing. As we progressed over the past two years, the list of horrific events mounted that should have sent us to our knees crying, “Father, Father, have mercy on us!” ISIS terrorist attacks, wars (US/Somalia, Israel/ Palestine), new epidemics (Ebola, respiratory virus), police killings of unarmed black men, severe weather and earthquakes all appeared as top news. Let’s take a walk down memory lane as we look back on a few of the top headlines. If you haven’t opened your Bible in a long time, dust it off and read it. We are living in the last days. 2 Timothy 3:1 - “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.” Trust in God! Beginning of ISIS Terrorist Attacks In retaliation of U.S. airstrikes in Iraq, ISIS militants released videos in September 2014 that showed the beheading of American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff.
(IN GOD WE TRUST CONTINUED))
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he brutal killings of the two journalists came as an attempt to pressure President Barack Obama to end military operations in Iraq. President Obama authorized "targeted airstrikes" to protect U.S. personnel from ISIS militants. Two U.S. F/A-18 jet fighters bombed ISIS extremists in Iraq. After the U.S. bombings, ISIS carried out executions as part of its efforts to establish an Islamic Caliphate that stretches from Syria into Iraq. A militant fighter said, "So any attempt by you, Obama, to deny the Muslims their rights of living in safety under the Islamic Caliphate will result in the bloodshed of your people.” Militants showed a video of another prisoner, UK citizen, David Hanes, who became the third victim. He was also beheaded. By November 2014, a total of five hostages had been beheaded. President Obama vowed that America would not be intimidated. “We are at war. They [ISIS] threatened the peace of our country.” ISIS is an acronym for Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. ISIS is currently a very active
terrorist group. Psalms 56:11 - “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.” Trust in God! Protests and Unrest “Hands up, don’t shoot", “I can’t breathe” and "Black lives matter" have become familiar phrases and angrily chanted by millions during the marches and demonstrations protesting the killings of unarmed black men by police officers. It all escalated when Michael Brown, an unarmed teen, was walking down the street with a friend (Dorian Johnson) when he was shot to death by a Ferguson police officer on a Saturday afternoon in August 2014. Witnesses corroborated Johnson's story, saying that Brown had his hands raised as the officer repeatedly fired at him. Eric Garner, an unarmed man, died when a New York police officer put him in an illegal chokehold. The medical examiner concluded that his death was partially due
to the chokehold. NYPD prohibits the use of chokeholds; however, officers deny that a choking took place and it was a headlock instead. No officers were charged with murder or homicide in both cases. Thousands of demonstrators marched in major cities like Washington, New York, Oakland, Los Angeles and Boston to protest against killings of unarmed black men by police officers. Staff from both the House and Senate, along with elected officials and the Senate chaplain, participated in a walk-out to show support for those protesting the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner. Organizers said these marches were among the largest in protest against the deaths and have cast a global spotlight on race relations in the United States. Psalms 91:2 - “I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” Trust in God! Ebola Virus Ebola is a virus with a high fatality rate that was first identified in Africa in 1976. Three
missionary doctors treating Ebola patients in West Africa were the first Americans to contract the disease. Fear gripped the hearts of Americans as the cases of Ebola rose in the US. Since the Ebola scare, it has become standard procedure to ask about recent travels to the continent of Africa in medical and dental offices throughout the country. As of December 2014, there have been a total of four laboratory-confirmed cases of the Ebola virus disease (commonly known as "Ebola"), which were diagnosed in humans in the United States. There have been a total of ten reported cases, including these four cases as well as six cases medically evacuated from other countries; the first was reported in September 2014. Eight of the people contracted the disease outside the US and traveled into the country, either as regular airline passengers or as medical evacuees; of those eight, two did not survive. A total of two people have contracted the disease while in the United States. Both were nurses who treated an Ebola patient; both have recovered. Psalms 16:1 - “Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust.” Trust in God! Same Sex Marriage In the United States, same-sex marriages are recognized by the federal government and are legal in 36 states, the District of Columbia, and 21 Native American tribal jurisdictions. The following states legalized same sex marriage: Oregon, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Oklahoma, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, Colorado, Indiana, Nevada, West Virginia, and North Carolina. Has the Church lost its voice, its vote and its power? 2 Timothy 3:2 - “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy.” Trust in God! States Legalized Marijuana Are you aware that there are now four states that have legalized marijuana for
recreational use? They are Alaska, Oregon, Washington and Colorado. Twentythree states and the District of Columbia currently have laws legalizing marijuana in some form. District of Columbia voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative legalizing recreational-purpose marijuana that will be subject to Congressional review. Although many states have laws legalizing marijuana usage, it is still illegal under federal law; but the Justice Department said it will not challenge states' marijuana laws as long as they do not run counter to certain federal enforcement priorities, such as selling pot to minors. 2 Peter 3: 3 - “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts.” Trust in God! Severe Weather and Earthquakes Of the eight different billion-dollar weather and climate disasters that occurred across the United States, the Western drought has been the most economically damaging on one of the country's most productive agricultural hubs. Historic drought conditions gripped the majority of California, making it the worst drought on record for the state, according to NOAA's (National Oceanic Atmospheric Association) January press release. The deadliest weather-related disaster to occur this past year was a devastating outbreak of severe weather, flooding and tornadoes that claimed 33 lives across the Midwest, Southeast and Northeast states in late April. According to Wikipedia, there were a total of 16,674 earthquakes worldwide in 2014 and the most that’s been recorded in the past ten years with magnitudes ranging from 4.0-8.0. The strongest earthquake was 8.2 in Iquique, Chile, with 47 deaths; and the deadliest earthquake was 6.1 in Ludian County, China, with 617 deaths. Closer to home, a 6.0 magnitude earth-
quake struck six miles southwest of Napa, California’s wine country. This shaker was the strongest for the Bay Area in 25 years injuring dozens of people and damaging historic buildings in downtown Napa. The economic loss is reported to be more than $1 billion. Weather Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Luke 21: 11 - “And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.” Trust in God! Wars and Rumors of Wars Israel & Palestine, U.S. attacks Somalia, ISIS bombings, cyberwars… So, although the world has always had wars, ethnic violence and strife, earthquakes, false messiahs and prophets, famines, and deadly diseases, Jesus Christ warns us that we are entering into the last days and we will see each of these increase in frequency and size. Mark 13: 7 - “And when ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.” It’s all about trust. No matter what is going on in this world, in our nation, in our city, in our homes, on our jobs, in our personal lives, there’s only one thing we can do, have faith, hope and trust in God. 2015 is gone, and we don’t know what the future holds, but in all things remember, In God We Trust! In God We Must…Trust! Psalms 62:8 - “Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” by: Sandra Allen
VOICE ON HEALTH... WHAT IS GLUTEN?
Data shows that ten years ago, 1 in 2,550 people worldwide were gluten intolerant. Today, that number has increased to 1 in 133 people.
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s it just me or is gluten intolerance on the rise? More and more I’m hearing people talk about converting to a gluten-free diet, and seeing “gluten-free” splashed on the front of food packaging, and not to mention entire gluten-free sections and/or isles in grocery stores. It’s like going vegan…the remix! So, what is gluten anyway? Gluten is a substance present in cereal grains, especially wheat that is responsible for the elastic
texture of dough. A mixture of two proteins, it causes illness in people with celiac disease. Gluten is rejected by the body in some people and not properly digested, resulting in chronic fatigue, neurological disorders, nutrient deficiencies, anemia, nausea, skin rashes, depression, and more. Data shows that ten years ago, 1 in 2,550 people worldwide were gluten intolerant. Today, that number has increased to 1 in 133 people. Research shows that some of the rise in gluten intolerance can be attributed to the change in the varieties of wheat; however, we can’t forget the people who self-diagnose, who also give rise to this statistic. Many people believe a gluten-free diet to be a weight loss program. Unfortunately, this is incorrect. In ways, it can be healthier to eliminate gluten, as this typically includes removing most carbohydrates, and sticking to proteins, fruits, veggies, legumes and flourless grains such as rice.
However, choosing the same unhealthy food items such as chips, cookies, and frozen pizzas, does not make them “healthy” because they were selected from the gluten-free grocery isle. Living gluten-free is not a fad weight loss diet, it is a lifestyle. The rise in gluten-free food options allows opportunity to those who cannot tolerate the ingredient to be able to enjoy their favorite foods; however, people looking to drop a few pounds should not depend on “gluten-free” food labels, and stick to old fashioned healthy food choices and exercise. It is important to get tested by a physician to find out your gluten tolerance status, especially if you are experiencing any of the listed symptoms. You may receive beneficial information for you and your family. by Niki Davis
VOICE ON HEALTH: TIPS TO STAY FIT 1. BE CONSISTENT Consistency is what makes the difference. No exercise program will work if done on a sporadic basis. 2. FOLLOW AN EFFECTIVE EXERCISE ROUTINE According to the American Council on Exercise, physical therapists suggest the following: • Strength Training – 20 minutes a day at least twice a week will help tone the entire body. • Interval Training – Alternating exercises for short periods is time efficient and productive. • Increased Cardio/Aerobic Exercise – 60 minutes a day of low to moderate intensity physical activity is suggested. 3. SET REALISTIC GOALS This typically relates to time periods. Don’t set up disappointment by striving for perfection or improbable goals. 4. USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM Find an accountability partner, who supports a fit lifestyle, and will not only support, but also participate. Some people love working out on their own, others enjoy it with friends.
5. MAKE YOUR PLAN FIT YOUR LIFE An expensive gym membership or fancy equipment aren’t necessary. Perform exercises that use your own body weight to target key areas such as squats, crunches, etc. Increase reps and intensity as you gain strength. 6. BE HAPPY Pick activities you enjoy doing. There are too many options to getting fit to force yourself to stick to a plan that you hate. 7. WATCH THE CLOCK Choose a time to workout when you have the most energy. 8. CALL IN THE PROS Get a professional assessment to determine what types of exercises you need most to reach your goals.
9. GET INSPIRED Read testimonials, imagine your results, get and stay inspired. 10. BE PATIENT Understand that the journey will have its ups and downs. Don’t give up, stay consistent (hence tip number 1), and the results will come!
LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN... Let the countdown to the new year begin! Whether you’re a yogi, a weight lifter, an outdoor jogger, or a power walker, WebMD has given some fantastic exercise tips to make the best of your workout.
ADDICTED TO THE
CHASE
Recovery: restoration or return to any former and better state or condition After tragedies, catastrophic events, or just plain old hurts, there is an all-important medicinal period of time that is needed to recoup structure, strength, hope, and routine. There is a set of practices that are put into motion that, if properly followed, catapults and empowers us post-tragedy. But recovery cannot be a permanent place. Recovery implies or suggests movement, motion, or action. For some, recovery can be a difficult place. It evokes hours of pain and discomfort. It may remind you of the tragedy faced, and if unwittingly left untreated and denied, can be a jail cell that proves arduous to be freed from. The period of recovery is not instant. Time can be a painful reminder, almost mocking you, as you go hour after hour, day after day, month after month of rigid repetition, in hopes of gaining past prowess and stature. When there is a lack of focus, recovery can be overwhelming at times, almost seemingly more painful than the actual trauma. It can leave you, if unmotivated, in a state of paralysis one never even dreamed of. In order for one to be in a state of recovery, one would have had to endure a range of cataclysmic chain of events that put them at or near death's door, but was spared passage through, with the results
leaving them in the need of being repaired, rebuilt, renewed, and restored. For Langston Jackson, the once-widely known, multi-sport star athlete from Simi Valley, California, recovery is the state he is in. But has no desire to remain there, either. With his devoted twin brother, Loren, his supportive sister, Ashley, and his benevolent mother, Lyle, Langston pushes himself daily to move beyond recovery and towards his new normal. What got him here? I'm glad you ask. In this world we live in, opportunities abound. Wise choices have to be made in order for us to be successfully. However, we don't always make the wisest of choices. And in Langston's case, it nearly cost him his life. In the burgeoning city of Simi Valley, the drug, heroine, has been making an unexpected comeback as drug of choice. Not only is it a derivative of morphine, which is used to relieve intense pain and suffering, heroine is also powerfully addictive. It is known as a “downer” drug, rapidly inducing a state of relaxation and euphoria— chemical changes in the pleasure centers of the brain—which mitigates the brain's sensors to identify pain. The initial high produces a sense of world peacefulness and sublime perfection. You are positively numb to any and all evil. However, the sensation quickly wears off, causing one to race near or far, to feel that “high” again.
I am reminded of these lyrics by the group EPICA: Free my mind Heal my scars Erase the past Dark days to forget And memories to last In my heart Free me now
I want the night just to color the day The morning to chase all my nightmares away Don’t you deny that we’re all human beings We all have our flaws that can make ourself obscene. …Give me what I want Five me what I need right now That’s what I want That’s what I need, get it! For much of Langston's teen to adult life, this was a constant chase. He wanted the dragon. The chase nearly killed him. Jackson was a football phenomenon, a beloved teammate, and a pleasure to his coaches. Football was his passion and it seemed the drive to be an excellent running back was positioning him for future success. However, a horrific car accident from deprived sleep and, some things on the field that were not in his control, like being passed over, the stresses of dealing with football injuries, the ill-fated Utah scholarship debacle, missing his twin brother, who was attending Pepperdine in Northern California, and questionable friendships, seemed to have been the amalgamation to this recipe of disaster. The turn towards drugs, whether prescription (Oxycontin, Carisoprodol) or heroine, compounded the once-promising running back's future and his life continued to spiral out-of-control. The perfect storm met him weeks into a drug rehab facility. In addition to the medication prescribed by his doctors to help reduce his anxiety and counteract the drugs in his system, Jackson believed by his mother, Lyle, and family, was given a street drug. Coupled with the missed hourly check-ins, the results put Jackson into a vegetative, coma-state. “...the conversation that stuck out in my mind,” his mother, Lyle began, “...was a conversation I had with his roommate and his roommate had a meth implant...and that was the only treatment center that would take him with a meth implant...I was like, oh my God, he (Langston) is with
someone who is not able to get clean... and he owns homes where he grows marijuana in...he (Langston) is with somebody much more savvy than him...”
Corinthians 13:11, “When I was a child, I spake as child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
This Side of Heaven
When you see someone that has gone through a drug-induced brain tragedy, you are keenly aware of idiosyncrasies taken for granted, such as quick-witty responses, hand-placements, and routines that are unbeknownst to you. For him, those are behavioral patterns that need to be relearned, taught again.
During those tenuous weeks of seeing Langston on a ventilator and seeing him battle potential kidney and liver failures, being reminded by doctors that this was a hopeless situation and that death was the only outcome, his sister, Ashley, took the spiritual forefront, and really emboldened the family. “My response to the doctor was, Langston's a fighter...I told her I wasn't trying to discredit her medical experience, however, God is our ultimate doctor...”
James 5:15, “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. It was through constant prayers, the consistent faith confession, and unwavering belief in God by Lyle, Ashley, and many other family, friends, and church members who knew the family that kept Langston on this side of heaven. Many of the doctors and nurses, using what they saw, their medical experiences, and devices, tried to embrace the notion that there was no way Langston could or would recover, let alone, live. I was able to see, first hand, the results of his fight for recovery. His eyes were bright and expressive, the enthusiasm was apparent in his body as he and I walked down the corridor, just chitchatting about the day he and I were experiencing. His smile was engaging and his laughter was easy. His pace was just as quick as mine. We talked about what I do for a living. We shared a laugh when I told him that I was looking forward to “shutting down the work day.” I even learned of his tattoo, 1
I didn't know what to expect from him during the interview. When asked what a typical day was like for him, I expected some response challenges. To my delight, without any hesitation, he blurted out, ”A typical day is...I wake up, shower, I go to physical therapy.”
studies. He takes Baclofen orally, but the ITB trial, will introduce a higher dosage for him, via his spine, to release the rest of the spasticity in his legs. Should this trial prove successful, the plan is to have a spinal “pump and catheter” version. I quizzed and probed Lyle about her disposition. I wanted to know just how she acquired the strength to face such an alarming trial. The reason why I asked, she, too, was in a state of recovery. It was a different type of recovery. I am a parent, and, as a parent, you are inherently gifted a mentality to protect and fight for your children. There are people, places, and things in the world you know or may not be aware of, that may have a negative impact on them. You spend your time teaching, preparing, sometimes, yelling at them, with the hope of providing a safe haven for them.
Needless to say, I was impressed. Both he and his mother began to unwrap for me what a “typical” day is for them – physical therapy goes for 4 hours long, including physical speech, occupational therapy at Center for Neural Skills three times a week, and twice a week he frequents the Center of Achievement for Land and Water therapy. To add to his therapy is something that is near and dear to his heart. He just began at Cal State Northridge, where it is the only California institute that offers it as a major, Music Therapy. He aspires to get involved with music (production) technology. Jackson enjoys HOUSE music, how it's made, and the sound produced.
“We go to a family group...he just graduated from an intensive outpatient program, which he went to for five months...we learn a lot about principles in life and relationships...it's the nature of the disease... as my son tells me, once you're an addict, you’re always an addict, and, to me his issues were the lack of coping skills.”
Since music works both the left and right hemispheres of the brain, it has helped the brain injury he sustained. He loves playing the drums and he is currently playing the piano.
She went on to express her concerns of a relapse, the possibility of Lyle having a family, and how he would not only have to deal with his challenges, but his wife's, or even their children's. Her desire is that he establishes a real relationship with God, knowing more that what his tatted onto his rebuilding frame, and that he gets the coping skills necessary to be a successful husband and father. “...I was so fearful, so fearful... that was gonna kill me...and... probably for the first time, I had to give it to God, 'cause I was walking in fear and, I am not today...”
Part of Jackson's recovery is overcoming nerve and some residual brain damage and the spasticity in his legs. He is about to embark on a medical procedure called ITB (Intrathecal Baclofen) Therapy Trial, known more so in the cerebral palsy
His recovery continues with therapy and counseling, enjoying favorite dishes like sushi and chicken fettuccine, all while under the auspices of his mom. You get the sense that Langston has the wherewithal to fight for what he wants, whether it be
entering into the field of music technology or to one day living on his own.
THE SOUND OF GRACE... I asked him what’s different today. He sees the difference in his life today versus being on drugs. He used to live to be high, now he is enjoying everything he does today, including guest speaking to a class of high schoolers at Chaminade High School about the dangers of drug use. “As long as I can help someone, that's what I wanna do.” "That sounds like grace to me." by: Frank Williams
OPENING OF THE NORTH Ready to show the Antelope Valley that Living Praise Christian Center is out of this world. Raise your shields of faith and set your spiritual phasers to stun. Dr. Fred and Pastor Linda Hodge have decided to boldly go where no man has gone before. The ministry is reaching for the stars, and although there are no current plans to establish a base outside of the Milky Way, LPCC North has proudly moved to a new campus in East Palmdale, California. Developed on a former school site, this acquisition meshes well with the Pastors’ God-given vision to satisfy a variety of ministerial goals and to build children of purpose, power and praise. There are three buildings on the new campus. The main building boasts the sanc-
tuary, an elaborate foyer, a full kitchen, administrative office, conference room, staff break room and a larger Pastors’ office - one that finally accommodates both Senior Pastors comfortably. Eight classrooms are split between the other two buildings, allowing for a variety of activities for children across campus. “This is going to be a kid’s paradise,” said Kalan Kennebruew, who served as Head of Safety and Security. “We have jungle gyms all around. We have about three basketball courts. We have two swimming pools - one that‘s dedicated to toddlers - it only goes up to around three feet. The one right beside it goes up to eight feet. They
are both fenced in for security purposes. There are a lot of shaded seating areas.” Kalan was kind enough to give me my first tour of the new church home on a warm May afternoon after the property was purchased. When I arrived, he had been working on assessing campus needs, which included the renovation of restrooms. His pride in the new facility was obvious as he walked me across the campus and described the variety of activities planned for the site. Plans included worship services, a preschool, elementary school, LPCI Bible College, and a 24-hour prayer center where the people of God will always be praying. LPCC also plans to
acquire adjacent properties in order to use them to bless families in the community and expand ministerial services. “This is the start of it. We have property, which opens up a lot of possibilities to put those things into place,” Kalan said. The previous North facility was in Lancaster. It was somewhat obscured in an industrial area, whereas most people had to be looking for it in order to find it. Now, things have changed. It is hard to miss the large LPCC sign sitting on the main street. Right across from Palmdale High School, the new LPCC North address is 2320 E. Avenue R. It is a magnificent location for drawing people who may not have even been looking for the church and it’s much easier to find than the Lancaster location. In fact, people have already stopped by the campus to find out about the ministry based on the sign they have seen on the street.
Since joining LPCC, Kalan has served in a variety of capacities, such as Head of Security and Pastoral Assistant. He is a kind person who loves music. He can be easily spotted singing praises to God as he rocks back and forth with the praise team during worship services. Perhaps unbeknownst to most of the church family is that his “rocking to music” did not begin here Kalan used to be a background dancer for Hip Hop artist Bobby Brown, and I’m making it my prerogative to share this.
“We’re on a main strip across from a high school, in an area that has no church like the one we’re about to bring here,” Kalan said. “This is a realm of whole new possibilities. We’re anticipating an influx of a lot of people who have been searching. We’re like a beacon and we’re going to draw those people in.” Kalan holds a unique perspective on the development of the Palmdale location. Having been a member of the church in the Lancaster location that was in place before LPCC North came into fruition, Kalan witnessed the ability of our LPCC Senior Pastors to make progressive changes in order to bring the vision of God to pass. He watched them accomplish all they promised to do and he admired their commitment. “Immediately what I saw in our Pastors was that they brought stability. They know what they are doing and have been at this a long time. I learned then that our Pastors don’t just talk a good game. They lived that thing and believed it. They started the journey before they could see the finish line,” he said.
With a witty sense of humor, Kalan states clearly that he is not ashamed of his past and that he had fun as a background dancer. Now, with priorities shifted and the Lord in his spirit, he is excited about the new campus and how it will bring our church family even closer together.
Now that the renovations are complete, all services are taking place at the new Palmdale campus. Although the temporary sanctuary is designed to welcome 360 people, Dr. Fred and Pastor Linda Hodge are making plans to build a sanctuary that will seat at least 500 people. Kalan is excited about this endeavor and believes that LPCC and our Pastors bring a breath of fresh air to the Antelope Valley. “You don’t feel like you’re just a number here. A lot of people call them mom and dad because they truly feel like your spiritual mom and spiritual dad. My father passed away, and so my father figure now is Pastor Hodge, and I couldn’t have made a better choice.” The switch from the former Lancaster facility to the new Palmdale campus appeared to occur at warp speed. The church family bought into the Pastors’ vision, came together, and donated time and resources to support the trek into the new location. Now, with plans to open additional campuses, Dr. Fred and Pastor Linda Hodge will not be limited by space, time, or any other obstacle. Instead, they are engaging their spiritual thrusters, and the Palmdale campus is just the beginning. They are ready to show the Antelope Valley and the rest of the planet that LPCC is out of this world.
“When LPCC first came up here, we used to have church picnics. We now have a facility where we can start that up again. Everything that we would need that is at a park, we have here. This place was a God-sent and this is just the beginning,” he said. To accommodate current needs while renovations were taking place, LPCC North was worshipping on the campus of Palmdale High School on Sunday mornings.
by: Terrence Hardge
NEED INSPIRATION TO PRAY? LISTEN IN ON THE... Can you believe it’s been over two years since we started the Prayer Line and it is still going strong today? The Prayer Line is anointed, inspiring and elevates your spirit, your mind and your soul. So why should we pray? Because prayer develops our relationship with God. Married couples know, if we never speak to our spouse or never listen to anything our spouse might have to say to us, our marriage relationship will quickly deteriorate. It is the same way with God. Prayer is simply communicating with God and prayer helps us grow. Praying for the Christian is supposed to be like breathing easier to do than to not do. We pray for a variety of reasons. Have you ever thought of prayer being a form of serving God and obeying God? We pray because God commands us to pray. Prayer is exemplified for us by Christ. If Jesus thought it was worthwhile to pray, we should also. If He needed to pray to remain in the Father’s will, how much more do we need to pray? I am excited about the Prayer Line and I must say, the praise reports are phenomenal. So call in and join us and be an inspiration to others, for we know God hears and answers our prayers!
Don’t forget to call and pray or just be blessed as we continue to take new territory through prayer! The hours are Monday thru Friday from 6:00am to 7:00am. The phone # is 1-641-715-3277, access# 263512#. “Blessings and Overflow!” Lady Tracy Vine (Taken from various resources and Lady Tracy Vine)
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BRING BACK OUR GIRLS
"Nigeria is not an isolated incident as girls around the world risk their lives to pursue their ambitions." On April 14, 2014, more than 300 girls were abducted from their school by Islamist militants in Nigeria called the Islamic militant Boko Haram group. Fiftythree escaped and 276 remain captive. Boko Haram means, "Western education is sinful." Abubakar Shekau, the leader of the group, has claimed responsibility for the abduction of the girls with threats to sell them. The initial response from Nigeria's leadership regarding the mass abduction of these girls was widely criticized because for many days little was said about this shocking attack on the school. As the news went viral, the world looked at leaders and heads of countries to rally and begin to speak out and step up to assist in efforts to find the missing schoolgirls. They would provide technical and investigatory assistance, special staff helping with hostage negotiations, advising on military planning and operations and assisting with intelligence and information. Like millions of people around the world, First Lady Michelle Obama and President Barack Obama were "outraged and heartbroken" over the abduction of the girls from their dormitory. First Lady Michelle Obama further criticized the kidnapping
of scores of Nigerian schoolgirls as an "unconscionable act" carried out by a terrorist group she said was determined to keep them from getting an education in an attempt to snuff out their aspirations. President Obama said the U.S. will do everything to help Nigeria find the captured girls. First Lady Michelle Obama stated, "In these girls, Barack and I see our own daughters," referring to Malia, 15, and Sasha, 12. "We see their hopes, their dreams, and we can only imagine the anguish their parents are feeling right now.” Nigeria is not an isolated incident, but is "a story seen every day as girls around the world risk their lives to pursue their ambitions." Mrs. Obama noted that more than 65 million girls worldwide do not attend school even though educated women earn more money and have healthier families. The First Lady also expressed hope that what happened in Nigeria will inspire boys and girls across the U.S. to be serious about getting an education, saying, "I hope that any young people in America who take school for granted, or any young people who are slacking off or thinking of dropping out, I hope they will learn
the story of these girls and recommit themselves to their education.” She also recently launched a domestic initiative called "Reach Higher" to encourage young people to pursue education beyond high school, whether they enroll in a professional training program, attend a community college or a four-year institution. The outrage over the girls’ plight has spread across the world, helped by a growing social media campaign with the hashtag #BringBackOurGirls. Michelle Obama asked the nation to pray for the Nigerian girls' safe return. She added her voice to the calls for the girls' safe return by tweeting a photo of herself in the White House. She appears sad and holds a white sign with the message "(hashtag) Bring Back Our Girls." Update: A year and a half later, still no sign of the missing girls. The Nigerian army claimed military success against the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast in early 2015. But the whereabouts of the Chibok girls remain unknown, and the Islamist militants continue to abduct more young women, who are held in slavery and forced to marry Boko Haram fighters. “They told me the Chibok girls have a new life where they learn to fight,” Abigail John, 15, who was held by Boko Haram for more than four weeks before escaping, told AP in February 2015. “They said we should be like them and accept Islam". “I think it’s highly unlikely that those girls will be found together and safe. That’s just unrealistic,” said Soraya Chemaly, a media critic and activist who has been involved in the campaign in the United States. Members of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign tweeted: “We are monitoring the news with huge expectations.” Schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram are still missing. Information and contents taken from various online resources – Associated Press and modified. by Brenda Robinson & Sandra Allen
LIVING PRAISE CHRISTIAN CENTER IS A CHURCH DEDICATED TO BUILDING PEOPLE OF PURPOSE, POWER AND PRAISE. OUR PASTORS TEACH THE UNCOMPROMISED WORD OF GOD, OUR FOUNDATION TO THE FOUR PILLARS OF OUR CHURCH, WHICH ARE WORSHIP, PRAYER, MARRIAGE/ FAMILY AND MISSIONS. LIVING PRAISE EARLY LEARNING ACADEMY AND THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ARE PROGRAMS UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF THE LPCC MINISTRY.
LPCC
PROVIDING RESOURCES FOR OUR COMMUNITIES
The Chamber is a business leadership, empowerment, and advancement organization. The Chamber connects businesses within the LPCC communities and surrounding areas, creating successful opportunities, partnerships, and business growth‌. together! The Chamber members strive to preserve the business system, promote spiritual growth and business development and provide solutions for challenges that face our communities. The Chamber serves as a resource to almost every kind of business regardless of the current stage the business is in. We are here to answer questions, provide directions, and provide assistance. We will host networking events so you can get to know other members and offer small business seminars to promote education and awareness to keep abreast with the changing times. Contact the Chamber for information on benefits, events, business, and much more! www.livingpraisechurch.org/chamber