UPCOMING EVENTS | INSPIRATION | MY ROCK | LOCAL SPOTLIGHT | YOUR SALVATION | CONTRIBUTORS
OVERFLOWMAG.COM OCTOBER 2011
A PART OF GOD'S TREASURED COLLECTION
UNLEASHED the movement WAKING UP TAMPA BAY TO JESUS CHRIST
WHAT IS FAITH LIKE A MUSTARD SEED?
KINGDOM VALUES in the workplace
10 WAYS TO SAVE YOUR CHRISTMAS BUDGET
Real People, True Stories, In Your Backyard
UPSIDE down on your Mortgage?! We can help, no matter the situation. Christ-centered & professional advice.
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CONTENTS EXPECTED
FEATURED
6 8 10 16 17 18 20 27 29 30
14
Faith Like a Mustard Seed
18
10 Ways to Save Without Drowning Your Christmas Budget
22
The Cost of Doing Business - Part 1
24
Seashells
FROM THE EDITOR MAGNIFY HIM MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT SALVATION RESOURCES CONTRIBUTOR HEALTHY LIFE MY ROCK EVENTS LOCAL CHURCHES
10
Our faith doesn't have to be that of giants, it can be as tiny as a mustard seed. We need only to take action by seeking our Father God in times of need.
True Couponing's founder gives 10 great ways to save on your gift giving this year.
A short story that reminds us that forfeiting our spirituality doesn't have to be the cost of doing business.
Learn God's perspective through the eyes of a child. What we see as broken, He sees as a treasure.
WAKING UP A GENERATION
Founder Donnie Mainellis shares Unleashed's journey
and their radical approach to reaching today's youth.
5
CELEB RATING TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF
ADVA
NCING A CULTURE OF LIFE
fe Gala ...........................
-FIVE YEARS OF
........
TURE OF LIFE
............
...........................................
BENEFITING LIFE IMPACT NETWORK
2
OPTION 3 Please join us for this exciting evening as we celebrate all God has done and continues to do in the Life Impact Network — through the work of A Woman’s Place, Surrendering the Secret, Woven Basket Christian Adoption Services and Perinatal Comfort Care
Thursday, November 3, 2011
GHTBRIDGE
Reception 5:00pm Dinner 6:00pm A La Carte Pavilion 4050 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa, FL 33634 Formal Attire Requested
About Mike Huckabee Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee is the host of the number one rated weekend hit “HUCKABEE” on the Fox News Channel, and is heard three times daily across the nation on the “Huckabee Report” syndicated on almost 600 stations.
Governor Mike Huckabee Keynote Speaker
He is the author of 9 books, the most recent being “A Simple Government.” This is his fourth book that has been on the New York Times Bestseller List joining “Do the Right Thing,” “A Simple Christmas” and “Can’t Wait Till Christmas.”
Pat Layton President & Founder
For further Gala information, please contact Bethany at (813) 931-1804 or visit www.LifeImpactNetwork.org
FROM THE EDITOR
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OCTOBER 2011, Issue 21 ____________________________________
I think many people forget something very important concerning forgiveness: to also forgive yourself. We all have messed up and we just have to let it go. You can forgive yourself, when you understand you have been completely forgiven by God. I challenge you to forgive not only others, but also yourself. Dear Friends, We live in such a beautiful state. Even in October we can go to the beach and still enjoy the warm air, bright sun, and refreshing water. We can play in the sand and make sand castles with our children. We can even take a relaxing stroll down the beach to pick up seashells. I really enjoy doing this with my son. I usually only pick up the perfectly shaped shells, but after reading “Seashells” on page 24, I will probably be looking at the broken ones differently now. Kerry Johnson reminds us that God picked us up when we were imperfect and broken and placed us in His treasured collection through Jesus Christ. When we make Jesus Christ our Savior, He makes us whole. If you do not know Jesus as your Savior, then please go to our salvation section (page 16). When you make Jesus the Lord of your life, you will never be the same again. Begin living a life of victory and wholeness through Jesus Christ. He has already paid for all our sins and He is just waiting for you to receive the forgiveness He paid for at the cross. Our Father forgave us, so why wouldn’t we forgive others when they wrong us? In our Healthy Life section this month on page 20, we have a great article on giving and receiving apologies. I know for myself this was a great reminder to forgive others even if they don’t come to you first to apologize. When we choose not to forgive, it negatively affects our spirit and our body. I know at times it may be a challenge, but we have to remember we can’t forgive through our own strength. We are able to forgive through Jesus Christ inside of us and His love that has been shed abroad in our hearts.
This month we are featuring Unleashed on page 10, which is not just a ministry but a movement across Tampa Bay. They are drawing in the youth with their unconventional approach and sharing the message of Jesus Christ. Read this inspiring story about the founder, how Unleashed began, and how they are touching the lives of many in Tampa Bay. Need a good outlet for your teen or young adult? Check out Unleashed every Thursday. We have part one of a new short story, “The Cost of Doing Business,” by Tommy Burrus on page 22. This story teaches us that we don’t have to compromise ourselves in the business world. I enjoyed reading it. Let us know what you think of these modern day parables. Visit us on our website or on Facebook and let us know. What is faith like a mustard seed? Find out more on page 14 where Chris Cherp shares about this and the revelation he received from the Lord. Christmas is just around the corner. Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? You don’t want to miss ten ways to save provided by True Couponing’s Kati Kiefer (page 18). Start getting ready for Christmas now, and you can avoid spending more than you planned. Have a blessed October and keep your eyes on Jesus Christ! With Love in Him,
Amie Cherp
6 OverflowMag.com October 2011
Editor | Amie Cherp amie@overflowmag.com Sales & Marketing | Chris Cherp chris@overflowmag.com Creative | Brady Wright brady@overflowmag.com Creative | Amanda Wright amanda@overflowmag.com Asst. Editor / Writer | Tommy Burrus Asst. Editor | Alexandra Corrick Photography | Stephen T Photography ____________________________________ How To Reach Us: 27251 SR 54, Suite B14-605 Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 813-915-6700 Phone 813-463-0275 Fax Submissions: magnify@overflowmag.com General Info Inquiry: contact@overflowmag.com Subscribe: Visit www.OVERFLOWmag.com and click the subscribe button on the homepage Event Submission: If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the event name, date(s), time(s), location(s), & a short description of the event to: events@overflowmag.com Advertising and Distribution: If you are a business or church and think advertising to over 35,000 Christians is awesome, please contact: Chris Cherp | chris@overflowmag.com Overflow Magazine is published monthly by Eternal Holdings LLC, a Florida limited liability company, d/b/a Overflow Magazine. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced or copied in any form without prior written permission from a representative of Overflow Magazine. We cannot be held responsible for statements made by advertisers or contributing writers; however, we do make every effort to ensure the accuracy and truthfulness of the information we print. Overflow Magazine cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors made by advertisers and/or contributing writers. All images, written work, photographs, e-mails and letters sent to Overflow Magazine will be allocated for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted rights to edit. Overflow Magazine is distributed free of charge to local supermarkets, churches, businesses, family events and other locations around the Tampa Bay area. For information on where to find Overflow Magazine or if you would like to become a distributor, please call 813-915-6700 or e-mail contact@ overflowmag.com.
© 2009-2011 Eternal Holdings LLC. All rights reserved. Photo Credits: ; ©iStockphoto.com/Reicaden, p. 2; ©iStockphoto.com/gchutka, p. 2; ©iStockphoto.com/ugurhan, p. 3; ©iStockphoto.com/epicurean, p. 8; ©iStockphoto. com/shawn_hempel, p. 14; ©iStockphoto.com/VCTStyle, p. 16; ©iStockphoto. com/f_, p. 18,19; ©iStockphoto.com/sitox, p. 20; ©iStockphoto.com/Irochka_T, p. 21; ©iStockphoto.com/claudiobaba, p. 22; ©iStockphoto.com/urbancow, p. 23; ©iStockphoto.com/Nuli_k, p. 24; ©iStockphoto.com/pascalgenest, p. 25; ©iStockphoto.com/hjalmeida, p. 26
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MAGNIFY HIM SUBMITTED BY YOU!
JOHN 12:23 (NIV)
"...'The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.'"
THE LORD MY SHEPHERD Sometimes at work I am called on as a consultant for processes that have a direct impact on large populations of people. Recently, I was asked to oversee some lab testing to verify if a particular product was the cause of a potential upset affecting thousands of people. Prior to going into this meeting, I had been meditating on “the Lord is with me, He will never leave me nor forsake me.” Within the first five minutes, the Lord brought to light something they had been doing
MY PROVIDER incorrectly, which changed the entire direction of their investigation. After the testing, I was asked to participate in a large strategic planning meeting to help find a strategy to solve the problem. Again, the Lord gave me the solution to the problem and the best words to express it to the panel of experts without offending anyone. Praise Jesus, my friend who never leaves my side! >>>C.C., Tampa
I was sitting on my bed on a Saturday night reading my Bible and trying to figure out how to pay my electric bill on Monday. I had not put aside my tithe for the week yet. I knew I did not have enough to pay the electric bill and whether I paid my tithe or not, I still didn’t have enough money for the bill. As I was reading my Bible, the thought came to me, “Pay your tithe and I will take care of the rest.” So, I prayed over my tithe and then paid it. Within days, I had hundreds of dollars. Praise God Almighty! >>>V.
TUITION PAID IN FULL I felt led to go back to college and pursue my education. God has really opened doors and provided beyond my expectations! Between scholarships and a generous benefactor, my entire tuition was covered for the first semester! God is Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides! >>>TB, Plant City
THE BLOOD OF JESUS After work one day, I was driving home on I-75 when all of the sudden I began to experience terrible stomach cramps. It actually got to the point where I wasn’t sure if I could make it to a restroom in time, even if I pulled off at the next exit. Earlier that week I had finished reading a book on the power of the Blood of Jesus. I began immediately pleading the Blood of Jesus to my stomach and intestines. After about two minutes of this, I realized that the cramping was gone. I made it home with no problem. As a matter of fact, I never had any more stomach issues after that day. Praise Jesus! >>>Healed in Tampa
TAKE ACTION 8 OverflowMag.com October 2011
Do you have a God Story? Be an inspiration to your community by going to OverflowMag.com and submitting what God has done in your life!
FEATURED
MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT
WAKING UP A
GENERATION UNLEASHED THE MOVEMENT
>>>BY AMANDA WRIGHT
I
magine black lights, thumping music, pool tables, and young people talking over the loud music. What do you picture – a bar, a party, or even a night club? Try again – it’s a Christian youth event. “Unconventional approach,” some might think. No, not really when considering the target audience. Who better to reach this generation’s youth than other young people? “Unleashed is a movement that has been taken beyond the pews of religion,” 21-year-old founder Donnie Mainellis said. He has taken to heart what Paul wrote to Timothy: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12, NIV). Donnie and his team at Unleashed have made it their mission to wake up this generation and as he put it to “make Jesus famous.”
Grassroots Donnie grew up in a strong Christian home and attended church regularly, but as a teenager he wasn’t interested in being around the church.
That didn’t stop his mother from praying for him or any of his friends he brought around. He was a lifeguard and got involved in the party scene, drinking and doing drugs. One evening after a long night of drinking and getting high, Donnie decided to do his first line of cocaine. Before he did, he looked over at his friend who was strung out on cocaine. “Something just happened in my heart and I saw myself when I looked at him,” Donnie said. He second guessed his decision to try another drug and told his friend, “There has got to be more to life than this.” Stories and scriptures his mom and dad told him went through his mind and he felt his life flash before his eyes. There were so many times he could have died or gotten arrested. Donnie said, “God, if You’re real, show me right now.” God sobered him up immediately. He made a decision then and there and told his friend, “Today is the day that I’m changing; I can’t do this anymore.” From that day forward, Donnie gave his life to God. He repented of his ways and never looked back. Soon after his change of heart, Donnie began having services in his living room worshipping
with his mom, Shelly Riker, and other close friends. They invited people to join them and before they knew it 60 people were crammed in his house. The weekly event became known as Unleashed and it was obvious they needed a new place to gather. In July 2009, Pastor Chuck Hodge of Community Worship Center helped Unleashed to begin holding their meetings at Onething Prayer Center in Brandon. God called Donnie to speak to the growing crowds and told him, “I need you for this hour to stand and do whatever I call you to do.” Despite his fear of speaking in front of people, Donnie answered the call. He humbly said, “I’m just a lifeguard that God woke up one day.” Donnie realized that God will literally use anybody for His Kingdom work, if they will only make themselves available to Him. Within six months, Unleashed moved to another room in the center. After six more months, they outgrew that space as well. The time came to find a new facility for the ever-growing ministry. Donnie and his team found a space that would work perfectly, but
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity” 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV ) the rent would be more than they paid before. They were about to sign the lease when the Holy Spirit prompted Donnie to hold off. The next day he received a call from Pastor Burnard Scott at The Crossing Church. The church had a newly refurbished facility for the youth department and they wanted to offer the space to Unleashed every Thursday. This included the equipment for lights, sound, and video. The Crossing Church became a vital partner of the Unleashed movement. God had a plan all along for the fast-paced success of Unleashed, and Donnie slowed down long enough to hear the voice of the Lord. For that, the ministry has been and will continue to be blessed beyond measure. Today anywhere from 200 to 1,200 people come out for Unleashed events with virtually no advertising. They also hold five
major events during these times of year: Spring Break, Summer, Back to School, Halloween, and New Year’s Eve.
Unleashed – The Movement “Billy Graham’s association did a survey that said 90% of people after the age of 18 would not return to church,” Donnie said. Undoubtedly there are many reasons for this, but several have shared with the Unleashed team that they felt judged, unaccepted, or simply did not fit in because they couldn’t identify with the message or the style of the church. So Donnie and the Unleashed team strive to change the way people see Christianity. They are presenting the Gospel in a radical way and sharing the redemption
11
October 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
found in Jesus. “We believe that doing worship the way we are doing, we’re not only going to get the 18-30 year olds (the 90% that is being missed), we’re also going to get that 10% to answer the call and stand up for Jesus. We want to reach everybody,” Donnie explained. He made it clear that Unleashed is not a church; rather, it is a movement. As Donnie and the rest of the Unleashed team see it, the time has come that we as believers need to stand together and influence the world around us and not allow the world to influence us. This movement isn’t about what you look like, what clothes you wear, where you go to church, or even how you worship. Unleashed seeks to bring together the lost as well as believers of every denomination to unite for one cause: wake up this generation
“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV) adults hanging out and moving to the beat of the music. A familiar song to the crowd comes on and they rush to the double doors leading into the main room. People are jumping up and down with their hands in the air, smiling. The doors open and the crowd rushes to the stage. The energy in that space is unreal. A clock starts counting down five minutes before the “Hype Service” begins. A light show by Ken Boyd ensues as Pac Man, the DJ, gets the crowd fired up with the “Crunk Team.” People are yelling “fired up” and “sold out,” still jumping up and down. It’s like a mosh pit in front of the stage. Next KAS,
to the truth, the way, and the life that is Jesus Christ. Unleashed has reached thousands of people, impacting the youth, young adults, pastors, drug addicts, parents, and many who would still be lost today if they hadn’t attended. Each week hundreds excitedly gather to worship the Father, hungry for the Word. The club-type atmosphere is not what you would expect for a Christian event, but the presence of the Holy Spirit is undeniable. The facility opens every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. for foosball, pool, and catching up with friends. In its midst are kids in middle school, high school, college, and even
12 OverflowMag.com October 2011
the in-house rapper, takes the stage and the crowd goes wild. Their hands are waving in the air as they shout the lyrics. KAS said, “Every week I just come and use my gifts through hip hop to encourage and influence the youth in a positive way.” Whether you’re a fan of hip hop or not, you sense the Spirit of God and feel connected to the excitement. The band joins the stage and the crowd lifts their hands high in worship and the presence of the Lord thickens. The lead singer, Wes Gillett, has an amazing voice and keeps the audience flowing in worship. The idea behind this type of worship is clearly
successful - God is moving in the hearts of all who are in attendance. The event flows seamlessly from one segment to the next. Bruce “Bam Bam” Miller comes on stage to share some announcements and gives an opportunity for a love offering. The funds are used to keep Unleashed free of charge as well as to support disaster relief efforts across the world. Donnie runs on stage pumped to give a relevant and illustrated message. KAS said the first time he came to Unleashed he was blown away and “couldn’t take his eyes off the stage.” As for Donnie’s word, “It was comic, it was funny, it was honest, it was real, it was hardcore, and it was straight to the bone,” KAS shared. Drama and skits are intertwined with Donnie’s message, along with video and soundtracks. The skits portray situations that many youth face every day like partying, drinking, and doing drugs. Music plays in the background and you see the emptiness around this type of lifestyle. Donnie shares scriptures that awaken the crowd to the fact that Jesus loves us and He loves us unconditionally. His message seeks to break down the barriers and perceptions of who God the Father and Jesus Christ are. Donnie teaches that it is only by grace that we are saved – it can’t be earned. It has already been freely given. He illuminates the fact that we don’t have to hold on to the guilt and shame of our past and that we don’t have to continue living empty lifestyles because Jesus can and will transform all who are willing. Donnie shares his own personal testimony with the crowd – these people can relate to his message on so many levels. The Unleashed team is piercing hearts with their message because the words hit home, the drama hits home, and the songs hit home. Donnie not only does an altar call and walks the new believers through the salvation prayer, but also puts out a call to become unashamed of Jesus and join the movement. Donnie challenged the audience to be leaders and make a difference right where they are – on their school campuses, at their jobs, wherever their sphere of influence is. He told the crowd, “Jesus died for me; the least I can do is live for Him.”
Vision God has gifted this young man to inspire all who hear his messages. Parents and pastors have thanked Donnie and his team for the impact they have had on their youth. Donnie knows
bring people to Jesus. “God chose us to wake up America and we’re going to do it.” Donnie said, “God is just looking for somebody crazy enough, wild enough, and passionate enough to do it. We’re crazy enough, wild enough, and passionate enough to believe He will use the foolish things of the world to confound the wise.” They will not be deterred because of their age, but have decided to set an example for believers just as Paul wrote, by the way that they live, the way that they worship, and the way that they bring people to Christ.
how to “light a fire” under mature Christians and new believers alike, including those of his ministry team. Unleashed is comprised of young people that believe in the movement and many of them, according to Donnie, have come out of some of the craziest situations. They have laid down drugs, alcohol, and other addictions to follow Jesus. Donnie said, “God is rocking their life – Damascus road, a Saul to Paul moment – and He is changing their lives and using them in this ministry.” Bam Bam shared that he fell away from the church when he was 17 years old and got involved with drugs and partying all the time. He said, “I had nothing going for me. I felt like I shouldn’t turn back to God because I turned my back on Him.” Bam Bam came to Unleashed and felt welcomed and loved. It literally transformed his life and he recommitted himself to God that very night. Chad Lee, another volunteer said of Unleashed, “It ignited a fire in me.” Donnie's whole team is made up of 50 volunteers who dedicate several hours every week to plan and prepare for each event. His core leadership team consists of six guys and six ladies. “We are raising up these 12 leaders to go out and get in groups of 10,” Donnie said. The 12 leaders invest in those 10 people every day, encouraging them so that they, too, will go out and change the world for Christ one person at a time. The Unleashed team’s guiding Scripture is Jeremiah 33:3, which says, “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know” (NKJV). It’s powerful to Donnie; he said, “We stand on that verse with everything that is inside of us.” God has shown Donnie the great and mighty things He has in store. Donnie’s vision for Unleashed is big! He spoke of creating
moments in all the major cities across America and in venues like Madison Square Garden. But first, Unleashed will conquer Tampa Bay, and they intend to pack out the USF Sun Dome and the Amphitheatre with worshippers. Donnie said, “We want to wake up this generation and let people know Jesus is real!” Donnie went on to say, “There will be a day where we will worship in the streets, and we will worship in cities, and we will worship on lawns, and we are going to do it for the whole world to see. We will make a stand for God and all the news [outlets] will watch.” Donnie knows in his heart that God chose him and the Unleashed team to stand in one of the toughest times mankind has seen to
Unleashed is the most relevant and successful attempt Overflow has seen to reach our city’s youth. We believe in their mission and we stand with Unleashed to wake up this city, to wake up this country, and to wake up the world to Jesus Christ. Will you stand too? Will you be unashamed for Jesus? Will you help Unleashed wake up this generation? ■
GET INVOLVED WHEN: Every Thursday, 7:30-10:30pm WHERE: The Crossing Church, The Student Center, 10130 Tuscany Ridge Drive, Tampa, 33619 MORE INFO: www.facebook.com/unleashedmovement www.youtube.com/unleashedthemovement EMAIL: info@unleashedthemovement.com
FAITH LIKE A MUSTARD SEED
Turning to Jesus in our weakest moments is like planting a tiny seed in the most fertile ground ever.
>>>BY CHRIS CHERP
W
hen I was a kid, I had the opportunity to visit Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming to see a special geyser named Old Faithful. A geyser is “a spring that throws forth intermittent jets of heated water and steam.”1 I was curious why they called this particular geyser Old Faithful and what exactly that meant. I later learned that one afternoon in September of 1870, the members of the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition gave this particular geyser the name Old Faithful because they realized that it spouted at regular intervals - faithfully.
Even though I learned why this geyser was named Old Faithful, it wasn’t until just recently that I understood the true meaning behind the name. One morning the Lord shared this amazing revelation with me. He said, “When the economic world is turned upside down does Old Faithful spout boiling hot water? When there are terrorist attacks in the world does Old Faithful spout boiling hot water? When there are earthquakes shaking up the lives of those who live in Virginia and Washington D.C. does Old Faithful continue to spout boiling hot water?” Finally, I answered and said, “Yes, it does Lord.” That’s the moment I understood the true meaning behind Old Faithful.
I asked the Lord, “What exactly is faith like a mustard seed?” Let me share with you what I learned. You know when life seems to be falling apart all around you? For example, when you lost your job or you just had a nuclear blowout argument with your spouse or even when you or a loved one was diagnosed with a terminal illness. I mean something that actually knocks the air out of you, making you realize that some things really are out of your control. Faith like a mustard seed is when you realize how fragile you are, when there seems to be no hope, but you fall on your knees and ask Jesus for help. It’s just like planting a tiny mustard seed in good soil. I learned that in those moments when we feel our weakest if we turn to Jesus and ask for provision, peace, strength, and healing, we are actually planting a mustard seed of faith. We are putting our faith in Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is the most fertile soil we could ever plant our faith in. We don’t need to be a pastor or an evangelist to have the faith required to receive from God to fulfill our needs and desires. Our faith doesn’t have to be that of giants, it just has to be, and to be requires action. The action of seeking God in time of need and asking for help is the mustard seed kind of faith the Bible talks about.
I learned that in those moments when we feel our weakest if we turn to Jesus and ask for provision, peace, strength, and healing, we are actually planting a mustard seed of faith. Much like the faithfulness of that geyser to spout at regular intervals, when things are not so good in our lives we, as believers, should remain faithful in Jesus Christ by regularly seeking and trusting in Him. I know that is easy to say when things are peachy keen, but it is in the hard times that victories are won. We just need to put our faith in Jesus. In Luke 17:6 (NKJV) it says, “So the Lord said, ‘If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, “Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,” and it would obey you.’”
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Every day, I come to know Jesus more personally and long to have a relationship with Him similar to that of Elijah (2 Kings 2:1-14). The more I come to know Him, the more I ask of Him; the more I ask of Him, the more He gives me. I challenge you to have faith like a mustard seed and take action by asking our Lord to perfect your concerns and grant you your desires and thank Him until you receive (Psalm 20:4; 138:8). Glory! 1
www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/geyser
SALVATION
YOUR DEBT HAS BEEN PAID D
id you know that Jesus already paid the price for every sin you have ever committed or will ever commit in your lifetime? Just as an unpaid debt can linger over your head, sin can cause you to suffer and rob you of the joy God wants for you. Some avoid creditors calling because they cannot pay their debt. In the same way, some people avoid God due to their sin and because they are ashamed and feel unworthy of God’s forgiveness. The severity of the sin or the lifestyle you have lived has no bearing on your freedom from the bondage the enemy tries to keep you in. You must first understand that Jesus was the sacrifice, once and for all. He paid your debt, free and clear. Let this truth resonate in your spirit and allow yourself to freely draw near to God. You are worthy of His Love, as He has already shown us His unconditional love through sacrificing His Son for us. Let go of your past and move forward with this promise – you are the righteousness of God through Christ Jesus. Romans 3:22-24 says, “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (NIV).
If you want to accept the payment that has already been made for you, just receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Say this prayer aloud: Father God, I come before You in the Name of Jesus. Your Word says that “whoever calls on the Name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21, NKJV) and “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9, NKJV). Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me. It is because of Your love that You don't want me to be condemned and punished for my sins. Thank You for sending Your beloved Son, Jesus, to die for me on the cross. Jesus took my sins, penalties, and all my curses and in return gave me His blessing, righteousness, and favor. He got what I deserved so I can receive what He deserves - all good things! Jesus' blood washes me clean from every sin (past, present, and future). On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead and conquered death. Father, I thank You that when You look at me, You choose to no longer remember my sins and that You see me in all the beauty and righteousness of Jesus. Holy Spirit, fill me to overflowing and lead me through this life - thank You, Father. In Jesus' Name, Amen!
“For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NLT)
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RESOURCES FOR YOUR SPIRIT
Matthew 6:33 (NKJV) “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness….”
LISTEN
READ
100 Days of Favor By: Joseph Prince
“You don’t need to depend on your own strength to succeed. Immerse yourself in God’s unmerited favor and change your life forever! 100 Days of Favor shows you how to develop a favor-consciousness in everything you do. With daily inspirational scriptures, prayers, and readings from Unmerited Favor, you can begin your day with a focus on God’s grace and love.”
Needtobreathe The Reckoning
www.Needtobreathe.net
Find it at: www.JosephPrince.com BROWSE
Matt Maher
The Love In Between www.MattMaherMusic.com
Leeland
The Great Awakening www.LeelandOnline.com
PeaceWithGod.net This website “is an interactive journey that can help you to know God and enter into an eternal relationship with Him.” It “is operated by Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) in partnership with Jesus.net. BGEA exists to support and extend the evangelistic calling and ministries of Billy and Franklin Graham by proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all we can by every effective means available and by equipping others to do the same.”
Find it at: www.PeaceWithGod.net
WATCH
Walk on Water TV Series Season 2
Trevor Morgan
The Blessed and the Broken www.TheBlessedAnd TheBroken.com
This is a 30-minute TV show “offering an entertaining message of hope and advice in line with traditional Christian family values. The show touches on many topics such as pregnancy, premarital sex, drug addictions, crime, death, financial responsibility, acceptance, peer pressure, honesty, jealousy, communication and others. The show is NOT a reality type show, but a scripted drama series infused with comedy and action elements as well.” The aim of the show “is to reach a youthful audience that is looking to be entertained while also presenting a positive message of hope.” Watch it on CTN!
Find it at: www.WalkOnWater.tv
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October 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
CONTRIBUTOR
10 WAYS
TO SAVE without drowning your Christmas budget >>>BY KATI KIEFER, truecouponing.com
1 MUSIC MIX
Remember back in 8th grade when it was all the rage to make your friends a “Mix Tape” (yes, I am referring to the cassette tape)? Well, nowadays with the popularity of the MP3 player, why not create a “mix” of music for those you love inspired by something personal? For example, if your sister loves to exercise on the elliptical, make her a “playlist” that includes inspiring songs with a quick beat to make her 30-minute journey even shorter! Plus, she will be thinking of you every workout. Paul said in Philippians 1:3, “I thank my God every time I remember you” (NIV). We can all use a little prayer of thanksgiving.
2 STOCK UP
Make some space in your closet and purchase gifts when they are on clearance. Then at Christmas time, you are prepared without needing to go pay full price for gifts. For example, twice a year Target has a toy clearance. This is a great time to stock up on gifts that never go out of style, such as bubble toys for little ones or board games for older children.
3 BUDGET
Create a budget and stick to it. Easier said than done, right? Well, it is time well spent to direct your money where to go rather than to watch where it went. Determine the amount you have to spend on Christmas gifts, and then break it up per person to know how much to spend on each. After you start shopping, keep a running total per person. Also, start shopping as early as possible, and you will avoid having one big expense in December.
4 SWAGBUCKS
With Christmas quickly approaching, it is time to start thinking about pulling out all those glorious decorations and getting ready for giving all those thoughtful gifts! In an effort to alleviate the stress associated with the holidays, here are some helpful tips to save while still being able to give in honor of that first Christmas when we were given the best gift of all, the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ.
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Use free gift cards to purchase presents. Have you ever heard of SwagBucks? It is an internet search engine, only instead of simply searching for your online answer (for nothing), you earn points (called SwagBucks) that can be redeemed for items such as Amazon gift cards. What an easy way to save up for holiday spending! It takes me a little over two weeks to earn 450 “bucks” which can then be redeemed for a $5 Amazon gift card (or other gift cards)! If you are already searching for things on the web, then just start using Swagbucks.com as your search engine and you’ll begin earning freebies as well!
5 HOMEMADE
Let’s not forget the important motto: Homemade gifts really do make the best gifts! Remember when you were little and you made your mom a gift for Christmas and she cherished that gift for years. The thought, inspiration, and journey
that it took for that item to be completed and given to the recipient means so much more than choosing a store-bought item. The gift you make can even be cookies or other food items or the ingredients for a recipe. One year, with my children’s help, I made felt snowmen to adorn a jar of brownie mix ingredients. I must say, even though it was the cheapest Christmas present I ever gave, it received the most “Thank You’s” hands down! One forum I like to visit to get homemade gift ideas is http://family.go.com/ community/groups/homemade-holidays-grp/.
6 GIFT BASKETS
Use coupons to get supplies for gift baskets. It’s fun to do themed baskets! When you get popcorn and soda for cheap, add a family-friendly movie (or a Visa gift card) and put it all in a plastic bowl or a basket (from a dollar store). Then, you will have a really fun, themed gift basket for a very frugal price! Pop some extra popcorn as “filling” in the basket and it makes for a really great presentation! Other ideas include a basket of manicure supplies or even grilling tools and spices for a special guy!
7 DISCOUNTED DINING
“Mow the Lawn” or “One-Hour Back Scratch” or a “You-Get-to-Choose-the-Movie Night” are thoughtful coupons and useful! Just use the wizard in Microsoft Word to create a “Gift Certificate” and make it into your personal coupon (or print some ready-made ones here: http://familycrafts.about.com/od/coupons/a/ couponbw.htm).
!0 DONATE
As we are excitedly anticipating the giving of gifts to our loved ones, I can’t help but remember that there are so many who have absolutely nothing to give - those who are, in fact, hungry and have nothing to eat right now. I encourage you, while doing your grocery shopping, to spend just three dollars on some nonperishable items for your local shelter or food pantry. Save the items from each shopping trip. Then, take your children to donate those items collected before the holidays begin. You will be teaching them a lifelong lesson in giving that no money can buy!
In all the hustle and bustle that gets associated with gift giving, I hope that this small guide will give you a jump start on saving this holiday and help you approach Christmas with a renewed spirit. As believers, we can give back to God through humbly and faithfully serving others. In 1 Peter 4:10, we are encouraged to “use whatever gift [we] have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (NIV). My prayer is that this Christmas season will be one of peace and reflection on that first, special gift of God’s Son that changed the whole world. ■
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
TrueCouponing.com is a faith-based money saving ministry focusing on equipping families to save their hard-earned money on their everyday spending. Kati Kiefer is the founder of TrueCouponing.com and saves her family on average more than 70% off their grocery and shopping expenses. Learn how to easily save for your own family at a free workshop near you! Just visit TrueCouponing.com for dates and times.
In every gift you give, you can include your favorite Bible verse or a verse that God has put on your heart. Simply print your verse on colored paper and attach it with a ribbon. Encourage someone and draw them closer to Jesus!
Want to give friends or family a thoughtful gift of a dinner out on the town? Restaurant.com sells restaurant gift certificates for a fraction of the cost (use a promo code so that a $25 gift certificate costs only $2). The catch? They have stipulations (such as spending a minimum amount before the certificate can be applied) and because you print them out at home, they aren’t beautiful. I like to ask for these as gifts so we can eat out at restaurants more often. Plus, they are based on zip code, so personalized shopping for an out-of-town friend is easy!
8 CAPTURING THE MEMORIES
Keep a lookout for sales on printing photographs, which you can then frame and give as gifts. Walgreens often gives coupon codes for free photo collages. Just upload online, pick up at the store, and add a frame for a super cheap 8”x10” collage of a special day with grandma! Along those same lines, if you have a little more time, online photo sites (such as snapfish.com and artscow.com) are great for creating photo books. Just upload your photos and design the book online. They will ship it right to you! For less than $10 you can have a personalized gift that the recipient will use and display all year long!
9 COUPON BOOK
Let’s not forget about the age old make-your-owncoupon concept. There is nothing like receiving an act of service from someone you love. A free
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October 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
HEALTHY LIFE
SCRIPTURES ON FORGIVENESS
JESUS MODELS FORGIVENESS ■ LUKE 23:33-34 (NIV) "When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified Him, along with the criminals—one on His right, the other on His left. Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up His clothes by casting lots." ■ MARK 2:5 (NIV) "When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven.'"
JESUS TEACHES FORGIVENESS
I'M SORRY “I’m sorry.”
We’ve all heard these powerful words before and probably even used them more than we would like to admit. In order for these words to work to their full potential, though, there needs to be a willing giver and receiver. Pride can sometimes stop the power of these beautiful words from working on both sides. For example, the offender might believe it's a sign of weakness if they admit to doing wrong through offering an apology. At the same time, the offended might believe that the giver of the apology isn't worthy of receiving their forgiveness thus allowing pride to thwart the power of the "I'm sorry." Maintaining a healthy life takes more than just exercise, proper nutrition, and rest; it also requires a healthy spiritual heart. When we choose not to say "I'm sorry" or not to receive an apology, it can play a major role in the spiritual health of our heart and our quality of life. By allowing pride to keep us separated from a healthy spiritual heart (or merry heart), we affect our spirit, which will in turn affect our entire body. “A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken” (Proverbs 15:13, NKJV). As believers in Jesus, we have been given the Holy Spirit who lives inside each and every one of us. We have a new heart (because of God’s love inside of us) that gives us the strength to overcome our pride and humble ourselves to ask for forgiveness or to give forgiveness, even when it's not deserved (Ezekiel 36:26-27).
The Bible tells us in Colossians 3:13 to forgive, even as Christ forgave us. We can learn from this verse that it's important not only to forgive, but also to ask for forgiveness when we hurt someone. It could be someone at church that didn't treat us the way we thought we should be treated or a co-worker or maybe a family member. Even if they don't take the first step to apologize, we shouldn't let that stop us from releasing the unhealthy weight of a grudge. We can approach them and apologize for taking offense to whatever they did to us, and then begin to enjoy a happy, healthy heart. It pleases God when we live long, satisfying lives that have been promised to all His children (Psalm 91:16). One of the ways this can be done is by forgiving like Jesus did (and still does). There are great things waiting for us on the other side of forgiveness. So, let’s look beyond our pride and say "I'm sorry" when we hurt someone. Next time you have the opportunity to say "I'm sorry" or to receive an apology, remember you are in right standing with God because of Jesus, and He is with you and will never leave you (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 13:5). Take that confidence and squash any pride that would prevent you from enjoying life to the fullest. Remember Jesus receives an "I'm sorry" from all who come to Him. If He forgives, why wouldn't we? ■
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■ LUKE 7:41-47 (MSG) "Two men were in debt to a banker. One owed five hundred silver pieces, the other fifty. Neither of them could pay up, and so the banker canceled both debts. Which of the two would be more grateful?" Simon answered, "I suppose the one who was forgiven the most." "That's right," said Jesus. Then turning to the woman, but speaking to Simon, he said, "Do you see this woman? I came to your home; you provided no water for my feet, but she rained tears on my feet and dried them with her hair. You gave me no greeting, but from the time I arrived she hasn't quit kissing my feet. You provided nothing for freshening up, but she has soothed my feet with perfume. Impressive, isn't it? She was forgiven many, many sins, and so she is very, very grateful. If the forgiveness is minimal, the gratitude is minimal." ■ MATTHEW 18:21-22 (NIV) "Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"
BECAUSE GOD HAS FORGIVEN YOU ■ EPHESIANS 4:32 (NIV) "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." ■ COLOSSIANS 3:13 (NIV) "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
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THE COST OF DOING THE COST OF DOING BUSINESS BUSINESS–Part 1– A SHORT STORY BY TOMMY BURRUS
>>>A SHORT STORY BY TOMMY BURRUS
I
heard the steady clip-clop pattern of high heels on a tile floor. I didn't need to see who it was; I could tell immediately that Cynthia, the sales floor receptionist was approaching. As she reached my doorway, she said, "Mark, Mr. Boren would like to see you in his office." She lingered there as if expecting some response. I really wasn't sure what I was supposed to say. It is rarely good to get summoned to the big boss's office. I looked back at Cynthia, and her eyebrows shot up as if they were willing me to get up and dash to the owner's office. I shrugged my shoulders, stood up, and moved out from behind my desk. In my mind, I was wondering what I could have done wrong. Why was I being called on the carpet? As I reached the doorway, Cynthia proceeded down the hallway in front of me, her clacking heels were like the drumbeat announcement of my execution, at least as far as my employment was concerned. Why hadn't she just used the intercom? I was relieved when she turned to head back toward the sales floor. Even in this economy, my sales figures were still ahead of the other employees. I did come in late last Friday, but I couldn't help the fact that an accident had happened right in front of me. I had to stay until the accident report was done and the officer said I could go. I know the boss doesn't mind me leaving early on
Wednesdays for Bible study. I got his approval on that. No matter how I racked my brain, I just couldn't imagine why Mr. Boren wanted to see me. As I approached his executive assistant's desk, Barbara gave a quick head tilt and said, "He's ready for you." I drew in a deep breath, squared my shoulders, and pushed open the solid cherry-wood door with his name plate. He was on the phone, so I stayed near the door, not wanting to intrude. I wasn't sure where to look, but I finally settled on looking out the large window to the right of his desk. I decided that this delay was the perfect moment for me to pray. "Father, I know this is no surprise to you. Whatever happens today, I pray that you will give me the strength and grace I need." Just then, I heard Mr. Boren conclude his call and drop the handset into the cradle. He rose from his desk as he said, "Mark, come on in. Have a seat." My former nervousness had evaporated, and I was feeling confident as I took my place in the chair across from my employer's desk. "Mark, I've had my eye on you. Your sales are stellar. You go out of your way to help your coworkers. You have a solid work ethic. You are prompt and thorough with your paperwork. In short, you are an asset to our company." Before I could say thank you, Mr. Boren continued. "Mark, I'm not going to beat around the
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bush here. John Rizen is retiring. I need a new sales manager, and I think you are that guy. Now, it means you won't be working on commission anymore, but there are bonuses involved. You would have more responsibilities. One of those responsibilities would be to entertain our prominent clients." Mr. Boren continued his explanation, but my stomach was churning. I had heard the stories of how John Rizen entertained those executives. I tried not to hear the details because it was so sleazy, but I had heard more than I wanted over the years. "Mr. Boren, I am truly grateful for the opportunity. I am honored that you would consider me. This promotion is a wonderful surprise, but there are some things we would need to discuss." "Mark, you don't have to worry. The salary will be more than fair. With bonuses, I think it is safe to say you will be making nearly double what you are now, and, of course, you will have an expense account to cover the entertainment costs." How was I going to make him understand without offending him? I simply could not go to the kinds of places that he would expect me to take our clients. Mr. Boren isn't a believer, but he's always been understanding. Maybe he will be receptive.
"John shared with me this morning that we have a real ground-breaking opportunity. Maritzco executives will be in town this Friday. I am sure you can imagine the potential income that landing that account would mean to this company," Mr. Boren said. "Of course, I do. Yes, sir, but I would want to know how much flexibility there would be about how I entertain these executives." Mr. Boren sat in stunned silence behind his desk. His mouth was gaping open, and his head was bobbing as if he were trying to manually process what I had just said. I obviously am not handling this well. I hoped I could regain his good graces. "Sir, I hope you won't misunderstand. I have some convictions about the kinds of places John has gone with clients in the past. I am loyal to you and this company. I believe in the products we sell. If you allow me to become the sales manager, you can know that I will always give you my best effort," I said. The silence that stretched between us seemed endless. Mr. Boren held his gaze upon me like he was studying a species of insect that he'd never seen before. When he finally spoke, I was surprised by the fatherly tone his voice had taken. "Mark, I admire you for having principles. Really, I do. I am not sure that they are very conducive to success in the business world. I realize that you are still young, and I'm willing to go out on a limb for you because I think you are smart and there is a chance that you might see things more clearly in time. We'll let John handle wining and dining the Maritzco folks Friday, you'll still take the lead on the sales presentation with them. This deal is just too important to jeopardize. After that, I'll give you the position of interim sales manager. I'll give you a month. I want to make myself clear: If your principles become a problem, I'll have to find someone else." I stood and shook his hand and said, "Thank you, sir. I understand completely." To be continued‌ ■This story is fictional and just being used as a means to teach. The names, characters, places, and events were made up or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to real people, places, or events is completely coincidental.
CONTRIBUTOR
SEASHELLS >>>BY KERRY JOHNSON
Siesta Key Beach filled the horizon, bright white sand meshing perfectly with sparkling sapphire water. "But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ ( by grace you have been saved)." Ephesians 2:4-5 (NKJV)
Umbrellas dotted the landscape like trees while dozens of sun-seekers walked along the water’s edge, admiring one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. My toes curled into the flour-like sand as our boys ran excitedly toward the waves. A surprisingly graceful pelican swooped at the water in search of lunch. Six-year-old Cole was on a mission to start a seashell collection while his brother herded seagulls on the shoreline. Chase’s screeching laughter was drowned out by the seagulls’ annoyed cries and the gently crashing waves. Cole spent much of his time hunkered down, diligently searching through the seashell blanket connecting water to sand. After a few minutes the tattered plastic bag in his hand was bursting with sharp seashell points and damp sand.
broken shells on the water’s edge because they weren’t whole. I saw no beauty in what was obviously damaged, yet Cole was fascinated with his motley collection of seatossed beach treasures. I praise God that He does the same with us. I’m a cracked, imperfect seashell. We all are. Some might even feel like a misshapen rock hiding among seashells or that we have been broken into irreparable pieces. But our gracious Heavenly Father gently picks us up - in our broken, useless state - and places us securely in His treasured collection. “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)” (Ephesians 2:4-5, NKJV).
I offered to trade Cole my nearly-empty bag and he eagerly accepted. As he headed up the shoreline to fill the second bag, I looked down into his collection of shells. Expecting beauty, I found brokenness. Instead of whole seashells, I counted dozens of shell pieces. The only common element was their obvious imperfection. Cracked, damaged seashells stretched the sides of the bag. Nestled among seashells were a few unusual, sea-mangled rocks masquerading as shells.
Battered by the pounding waves of life and floating along the tide of sinfulness, we’re a world away from beauty and perfection. More accurately, we’re a Garden away. Yet God loved us so much that He sent His perfect Son in order to redeem His creation. What amazing grace! At salvation, our brokenness is perfected by the righteousness of Jesus. Not of ourselves, but solely through His completed work on the cross. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10, NKJV).
How different from my small seashell collection! The few seashells I picked up that sunny afternoon were perfect and pleasing to the eye; I specifically overlooked the
As Cole ran excitedly down the beach carrying his second bag full of broken treasures, I gave thanks that our loving Creator did the same for each of us. ■
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HIGHLIGHT
PARAGON RISK MANAGEMENT Insurance Protection - Higher Standards >>>BY JEFF HANNEKEN
P
aragon Risk Management, Inc. was founded almost 13 years ago with the vision of providing business owners throughout Florida with a resource for their commercial insurance needs.
“No client shall be anonymous and no issue shall be treated as routine.” CONTACT INFO
Jeff Hanneken Vice President jeff@paragonrisk.com 203 Crystal Grove Blvd. Ste.101 Lutz, FL 33549 813-949-8636 www.paragonrisk.com
Today, Paragon Risk Management, Inc. has grown to one of the area’s oldest and broadest full-service independent insurance agencies, offering a comprehensive array of property and casualty insurance products for businesses and homeowners alike. Our team of dedicated, licensed agents and customer service representatives embody over 65 years of career insurance experience, possessing the qualifications and knowledge to properly evaluate your specific needs and make appropriate recommendations regarding coverage. We are pleased to represent a multitude of the nation’s leading insurance carriers, providing area business owners and customers with access to some of the broadest, most affordable coverage available in today’s marketplace. In serving your commercial insurance needs, we have the capability and expertise to write policies from the one-person contractor up to the multi-million dollar corporation. Our breadth of specialization includes General Liability, Workers Compensation, Property, Commercial Auto, Professional Liability, as well as Bonds, Health, Life, and other related insurance for your business needs. For personal insurance needs, we offer auto and homeowners insurance through an array of companies. Florida is a unique state when it comes to purchasing
26 OverflowMag.com October 2011
insurance for a home. We’ve seen many homeowners insurance companies leave the state due to the uncertainty of hurricanes and the damage they cause. Residents in Tampa and throughout the state are finding it difficult to locate a homeowners insurance company that will provide them with the proper coverage and level premiums, while maintaining financial stability. As independent agents, we are able to compare insurance rates from a wide variety of “A” rated providers in order to find a policy that is perfect for our client. Auto insurance is no different; there are a variety of carriers and coverage you should consider when purchasing auto insurance. Since our company’s inception and to the present day, we believe our value proposition rests in the care and attention we provide to our clients as their trusted insurance advisor. Most insurance agencies today view clients by the revenue that they produce for the agency. Paragon Risk Management, Inc. looks at things a bit differently. We understand that our clients need and expect exceptional service and expertise, no matter what premium they might be paying. The profitability and success of their business is paramount, and they deserve care and prudence from their business partners. We agree with that and demonstrate this commitment each day to our clients. On behalf of our agents and associates, we look forward to being a resource to you for your insurance needs. We recognize and give all the glory to our Lord and Savior, for it is through Him that we are able to serve you. ■
MY ROCK SCRIPTURES I STAND ON
Mark 6:4-5 (NKJV)
“But Jesus said to them, ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.’ Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them.” This is one of the most helpful scriptures that I have read. It provides me with strength to go out into the world to face others. Most of us have a lot to share with humanity, but we are concerned about what others will say and how they will treat us. So, when we find ourselves listening to what the world has to say, let’s go back to scripture and only listen to what Jesus said.
Photographed by: KYMBERLY BOSWELL PHOTOGRAPHY Kym@KymberlyBoswell.com 813-380-5797
Have a favorite Scripture that you stand on? We are always looking for new people to share what God’s Word means to them. Let us know and we’ll photograph you! E-mail us at contact@overflowmag.com.
MY ROCK SCRIPTURES I STAND ON
Isaiah 61:1 (NASB)
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives And freedom to prisoners.” It is an honor to be called by God to be His hands and feet while I occupy this earth expressing His liberty and hope to those unable to understand He is alive and operates through people.
Photographed by: KYMBERLY BOSWELL PHOTOGRAPHY Kym@KymberlyBoswell.com 813-380-5797
EVENTS
OCTOBER 4
YouNite @ The Shops at Wiregrass
28211 Paseo Dr., Ste.100, Wesley Chapel www.stjamestampa.org 813-971-4790 *Live music, giveaways, Christian bands 6-8:30pm, FREE
6-9 Awaken the Real You! Women's Retreat Hosted by Divine Discipline Beso Del Sol Resort
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2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon 866-440-7880 www.thejoyfm.com 7pm
St. Pete Times Forum 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa 888-49-FAITH www.womenoffaith.com *Tickets: $99 10am-3:30pm & 7pm-10pm (Fri.) 9am-5pm (Sat.)
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220 North 13th St., Leesburg www.exodusinternational.org 7pm-10:30pm
8
Garage Sale for a Cause 5351 Algerine Place, Wesley Chapel brocato@voicefortheorphans.org *Benefits Voice for the Orphans 7am-2pm
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14
New Tampa Women's Connection Luncheon Tampa Palms Country Club 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa 813-961-2810 *Speaker, feature, fellowship and lunch 11am, $15 at the door
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New Tampa Women's Prayer Connection Bob Evans 16314 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa 813-961-2810 9am
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER
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Ted Pearce in Concert Trinity Church Sanctuary
33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel 813-760-3269 www.shoreshdavid.org 7pm, FREE
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Trunk-A-Treat! Hosted by Outreach Ministries
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Honduras Walk/Run/Ride Event
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Manhattan Baptist Church Yard Sale 4300 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa
CBC - Central Pasco Prayer Breakfast CrossRoads Community UMC 26211 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel www.cbccentralpasco.com $20 (in advance), $25 (at the door) 7:30am-9:30am
Atonement Lutheran Church 29617 SR 54, Wesley Chapel 813-973-2211, office@be-at-1.org *Wear costumes & bring a can to help stock Helping Hands Food Pantry 5pm-8pm Flatwoods Park 14302 Morris Bridge Rd., Thonotosassa 813-971-4790 www.stjamestampa.org, register by 10/21 *To benefit Honduras Outreach International 8am, $35
813-831-1951 info@manhattanbaptist.org *Benefits Evangelical Missionaries in China 9am-2pm
Seeds of Hope - Reflections on 9/11
With Daniel Rodriguez "The Singing Policeman" Myrtle Lake Baptist Church 2017 Reigler Rd., Land O' Lakes www.danielrodriguezconcert.eventbrite.com 7pm-9pm
Fall Festival & Craft Fair St. James UMC
16202 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa 813-971-4790 www.stjamestampa.org *FREE food, festivities, entertainment, crafts 10am-2pm
14-15 Women of Faith "Imagine" Conference
1420 Bayshore Blvd., Dunedin For More Info: 813-343-4112 www.awakentherealyou.com 6pm (Thurs.), 8am (Fri. & Sat.), 9am (Sun.)
7-8 Chosen for Freedom Exodus FL Regional Conference First Baptist Church of Leesburg
An Evening with Chonda Pierce & Special Guest Warren Barfield Bell Shoals Baptist Church
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BooBash - Safe Halloween Alternative Heritage Church
1854 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz 813-909-4080 www.boobash.info *Games, Big Slide, Bouncey, Food & Candy 6pm-8pm, FREE
NOVEMBER 1
3
YouNite @ The Shops at Wiregrass
28211 Paseo Dr., Ste.100, Wesley Chapel www.stjamestampa.org 813-971-4790 *Live music, giveaways, Christian bands 6-8:30pm, FREE
Life Impact Network's 25th Anniversary Light of Life Gala Special Guest Speaker: Mike Huckabee A La Carte Pavilion 4050 Dana Shores Dr., Tampa For More Info: 813-931-1804 www.lifeimpactnetwork.org 5pm
5
Bay Area Legal Services' 7th Annual Cup of Hope Garden Tea Party 5002 S. Shore Crest Circle, Tampa
www.bals.org *Proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence 1pm-4pm
Feeding Children Everywhere Food Packing Event - Meals to Haiti The Crossing Church 10130 Tuscany Ridge Dr., Tampa www.feedingchildreneverywhere.com TBD
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Feeding Children Everywhere Food Packing Event - Meals to Africa KForce Corporate Headquarters 1001 E. Palm Ave., Tampa www.feedingchildreneverywhere.com 8am-3pm
12
TrueCouponing Workshop Wesley Memorial United Methodist
6100 Memorial Hwy, Tampa 813-886-2537 Register at: www.truecouponing.com 10am, FREE
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Hope Church's Fall Festival
5107 Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz 813-818-1211 www.hope4tampa.com *Games, petting zoo, pony rides, live music, bounce houses, food & drinks 3pm-6pm
Voice for the Orphans Grand Opening
Wesley Chapel District Park 7727 Boyette Rd., Wesley Chapel 813-541-4996 www.voicefortheorphans.org *Children's author signings, raffles (Nook Book), food, bounce house, & more! 1pm-4pm
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Stock Our Shelves Breakfast Hosted by Thrivent & Helping Hands Food Pantry Atonement Lutheran Church 29617 SR 54, Wesley Chapel 813-973-2211, office@be-at-1.org *Outdoor activities, games and lots of fun! 8am-2pm, Tickets: $5
ADD YOUR EVENT If you would like to add an upcoming event to our calendar, please submit the event name, date(s), time(s), location(s), & a short description of the event to:
events@overflowmag.com
Deadlines are the 15th* of each month *Space is limited
UPGRADE YOUR EVENT WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT?
Run an ad with Overflow to promote your event and help spread the Word of God! CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO: 813.915.6700 or events@overflowmag.com
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October 2011 Love+Faith+Hope
LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES Alafia Baptist Church
E_Life Chapel
Grace Outreach Ministries
Anointed Word Church
Epistle of Christ Ministries
Grow Life Church
222 Alafia Baptist Church Rd., Lithia, 33547 813-634-8845 Sun., 9:45am, 11am, & 6pm, Wed., 7pm 1709 St. Joseph St., Tampa, 33607 813-254-5271, www.anointedwordchurch.com Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm
Atonement Lutheran Church
29617 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-973-2211, www.be-at-1.org Sun., 10am
Bay Covenant Fellowship
6813 US Hwy 301 S., Riverview, 33578 813-785-6032, www.baycovenant.com Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
Bell Shoals Baptist Church
2102 Bell Shoals Rd., Brandon, 33511 813-689-4229, www.bellshoals.com Sun., 9:15am & 11am, Wed., 7pm
Branch of Christ Ministries
27223 SR 56, Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-435-1469 Sun., 10am
Christ CP Church
19501 Holly Lane, Lutz, 33548 813-909-9789, www.christchurchlutz.org Sun., 10:30am
Church of the Lakes
2530 Wilson Rd., Land O’ Lakes, 34638 813-948-4358, www.churchofthelakesepc.org Sun., 9:15am & 10:30am
Christian Family Church
Meeting at The Italian Club 1731 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, 33605 813-802-8736, www.cfctampa.org Sun., 10:30am
Countryside Baptist Church
13422 Sydney Road, Dover, 33527 813-571-8200, www.countrysidebaptistchurch.net Sun., 9:30am (Bible Study), 10:45am (Worship Service), & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
CrossRoads Community United Methodist Church
26211 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-907-5815, www.crossroadsum.com Sun., 9am (Traditional Worship) & 10:30am (Contemporary Worship)
Dwelling Place
410 County Line Rd. W., Lutz, 33548 813-949-1912, www.thedwellingplace.us Sun., 10:30am & 2pm (Spanish Service) Wed., 7pm
3806 N. 12th St., Tampa, 33603 813-924-6553, www.elifechapel.com Sun., 10:30am
Meeting at Ramada Inn 11714 Morris Bridge Rd., Tampa, 33617 813-785-4519, www.epistleofchrist.org Sun., 10am (except 1st Sun.), Mon., 7pm (after 1st Sun.)
Faith Life Church
4902 East Busch Blvd., Tampa, 33617 813-910-7336, www.flctampa.org Sun., 9:30 & 11am, Wed., 7pm Thurs., 7pm (Healing School)
Faith Family Worship Center
14514 Del Valle Rd., Tampa, 33625 813-920-3685, www.ffwc.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
Family Harvest Worship Church Meeting at Hunters Green Elementary 9202 Highland Oak Dr., Tampa, 33647 813-973-FHWC, www.fhwc.net Sun., 10am
First Baptist of New Tampa
28125 County Line Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-907-1685, www.fbcnewtampa.org Sun., 9:15am, 10:30am, & 6pm
First Reformed Church of Tampa
8283 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33615 813-886-6210, www.frctampa.org Sun., 9:30am (Contemporary), 11am (Traditional)
First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church
10650 McIntosh Rd., Thonotosassa, 33592 813-986-4756, www.thonotosassabaptist.org Sun., 9:45 am, 11am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
Floodgates Community Church
1664 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-389-0238, www.floodgateschurch.org Sun., 9am & 11am, Tues., 8:30pm (Young Adults), Wed., 7pm
Gateway Christian Center Assembly of God
14200 North Central Ave., Tampa, 33613 813-961-4692, www.gatewaytampa.net Sun., 9:45am, 10:45am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
Grace Family Church
5101 Van Dyke Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-265-4151, www.gracefamilychurch.org Sat., 5 & 7pm, Sun., 9:30am & 11:45am
30 OverflowMag.com October 2011
1900 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz, 33559 813-316-6606 Sun., 10:30am
Meeting at Veterans Elementary School 26940 Progress Pkwy., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-406-8963, www.growlifechurch.com Sun., 10am
Heritage Church
1854 Oak Grove Blvd., Lutz, 33559 813-909-4080, www.yesheritage.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
House of Prayer Church
6305 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33610 813-994-5694, www.houseofprayerchurch.org Sun., 10:30am, Wed., 7pm
Keystone Community Church
21010 SR 54, Lutz, 33558 813-962-4522, www.keystonecommunity.org Sunday School, 9:30am Sunday Worship, 10:30am
Kingdom Worship Center
1102 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 33612 813-443-5720 Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm
Legacy Church
2702 Causeway Center Dr., Tampa, 33609 813-770-LIFE, www.legacyfam.com Sat., 6pm
Life Changing International Church
2106 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, 33594 813-653-9358, www.lifechangingintlministry.com Sun., 1:45pm Celebration Service Mon., Wed. & Fri., 7:30pm
Light Christian Ministries
720 W. Robertson St., Brandon, 33511 813-458-6252, www.lightcm.org Sun., 10am, Tues.& Wed., 7pm
Myrtle Lake Baptist Church
2017 Reigler Rd., Land O’ Lakes, 34639 813-949-5516, www.myrtlelake.org Sun., 10:30am & 6pm
New Birth of Faith Fellowship Church 1725 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, 33612 813-972-0101, www.newbirthoffaith.org Sun., 10am, Thurs., 7pm
New Life Church
1611 E. Bougainvillea, Tampa, 33612 813-244-4355 Sun., 3-5pm, Wed., 7pm
New Millennium Community Church
St. James Methodist Church
Without Walls Intl. Church
New Wine Outreach Ministry
Streams in the Desert International Church
Zephyrhills First Assembly
4810 E. Busch Blvd., Suite I, Tampa, 33617 813-381-5463 www.newmillenniumchurch.org Sun., 8:30am & 11am, Wed., 7:30pm 6213 E. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 33610 813-443-4503 Sun., 11am, Wed., 7:30pm, Fri. Prayer, 7pm (2nd & 4th Fri.)
Next Level Church
Tarpon Springs High School 1411 Gulf Rd., Tarpon Springs, 34689 727-279-6362, www.livenextlevel.com Sun., 10am (Cafe) 10:30am (Worship Service)
NorthBridge Church
2025 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel, 33543 (Meeting at John Long Middle School) 813-319-4588, www.northbridgechurch.info Sun., 10am
Oasis World Outreach
35636 SR 54 West, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-782-2888, www.oasisworldoutreach.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Open Arms Church of Ybor City
1314 E. 18th Ave., Tampa, 33605 813-248-2595, www.openarmschurch.org Sun., 10:30am & 1pm (Spanish), Wed., 7pm
Pathway to Peace Christian Church 5808 Lynn Rd., Tampa, 33624 813-908-0893 Bilingual-Spanish Services Sun., 10am, Tues. & Fri., 7:30pm
Reality Church Tampa
1000 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-228-8700, www.realitychurchtampa.com Sun., 10am & 6pm
River of Life
410 Chapman Rd. East, Lutz, 33549 813-949-9931, www.riveroflife-lutz.org Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue
33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-831-5673, www.shoreshdavid.org Fri., 7pm
St. James House of Prayer Episcopal Church
2708 N. Central Ave., Tampa, 33602 813-223-6090, www.sjhoptpa.org Sun., 9am (Traditional), 11:30am (Contemporary)
16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-971-4790, www.stjamestampa.org Sun., 9:30am (Traditional), 11am & 12:30pm (Contemporary)
3860 W. Columbus Dr., Tampa, 33607 813-879-4673, www.withoutwalls.org Sun., 9am, 11am, 3pm (Spanish) Thurs., 7pm 36322 SR 54, Zephyrhills, 33541 813-788-3490, www.zephyrhillsfirst.com Sun., 10am, Wed., 7pm
3902 Corporex Park Drive, Ste. 550 Tampa, 33619 813-597-1613, www.isa-356.org Sun., 10am, Tues., 7pm (Bible Study), Fri., 6pm (Prayer), 4th Fri., 7pm (Youth)
Tampa Covenant Church
13320 Lake Magdalene Blvd., Tampa, 33618 813-968-2979, www.tampacovenantchurch.org Sun., 9:30am, Wed., 7pm
Torre Fuerte Tampa
Meeting at Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church 19911 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 33647 813-410-7220 Spanish Services Sat., 7pm
ADD YOUR CHURCH If you would like to learn more about how your church can be listed in this section and become a point of distribution, please contact us: 813-915-6700 or Contact@OverflowMag.com
Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel
33425 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, 33543 813-788-2898, www.trinitychurchwc.com Sun., 9am (Blended), 10:45am (Traditional), & 12:34pm (NOW Praise)
Trinity Presbyterian Church
14925 North Boulevard, Tampa, 33616 813-961-5836, www.trinitytampa.com Sun., 9:30am, 11am (Bible Classes), 6pm (2nd & 4th Sun.), Wed., 6:15pm
Victorious Life Church
6224 Old Pasco Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33544 813-973-2230, www.victoriouslifechurch.com Sun., 9am, 10:40am & 6pm, Wed., 7pm
Vida Community Church
Meeting at The Dwelling Place 410 W. County Line Rd., Lutz, 33558 813-810-0863, www.vidacommunitychurch.org Bilingual-Spanish Services Sun., 2pm, Thurs., 7pm
Water’s Edge Church
30200 Overpass Rd., Wesley Chapel, 33545 813-994-5000, www.connectingfaith.com Sun., 11am, Wed., Kids 6:30pm, Adults 7pm
Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church
6100 Memorial Highway, Tampa, 33615 813-886-2536, www.wesleymemorial.net Sun., 9am & 11:15am, Wed., 6:30pm
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October 2011 Love+Faith+Hope