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Her stage presence is captivating, drawing each audience member behind the veil into a pure worship experience. Her voice is crystal clear and angelic---taking a sincere praise from altars and stages across the globe right into the very chamber of God that destroys yokes and sets the captives free!
GOSPEL SINGER
AUTHOR
EVANGELIST/AUTHOR
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PPM Staff and Credits CEO
Sherrell Valdezloqui
Advisor Rachel Moore
INSPIRATIONAL ARTICLES Editor
In the Palms of His Hands
Damon Moore
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By: Tina Kay Hughes
Cut It Off
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By: Tina Kay Hughes
GRAPHIC DESIGN DEPARTMENT
Sherrell Straker-Valdezloqui
Dream or Vision?
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Dohn Knowles
By: Adrienna Turner
We are Still Standing
25 BOOK REVIEWER
By: Minister Tony Jones Sr.
Don‘t Go with the Crowd
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Sherrell Straker-Valdezloqui
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PPM Contributing Writers
By: Rachel Moore; Advisor
Who Are You? By: Shelby Frederick
Tony Jones Sr.
TESTIMONIES
Adrienna Turner
Bro Albert Mckinnon Sr.
24 Shelby Fredrick Tina Kay Hughes
MORE FEATURES Breanna Forrest
Ruby Owens
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Dr. Inecir Matthis Rachel Moore
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Greetings Readers, I pray that each and everyone that receives Promoting Purpose Magazine, is touched by the testimonies, articles and anointed features placed inside. This is PPM‘s 6th month as a printed magazine and 7th month of existence. We give God the glory for all the accomplishments PPM has received so far as well as future accomplishments. PPM‘s main focus is to,‖ Promote What God Has Already Placed In Us‖ and that‘s Purpose. We feature ministries from pastors, teachers, singers, poets, founders, all in which allow God to use them to plant seeds for His Harvest. If you know of a ministry that is walking in their purpose please don‘t hesitate to contact the PPM staff. We are eager to put the children of God in front of the masses to share their ministry to the world.
This month PPM has started a Newsletter and will also be launching another magazine titled T&Y (Teen & Youth) Magazine. Stay up to date on PPM with our free newsletter. To subscribe, simply log on to our website and fill out the form at www.promotingpurposemagazine.com
Thank you for all of your support in prayers, contributing articles, sharing testimonies and inquiring about being a featured. Promote your Purpose in 2011! God Bless, Sherrell Straker-Valdezloqui CEO/Founder Promoting Purpose Magazine
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TANYA DALLAS-LEWIS From first listen to the sound of the angelic voice of Tanya Dallas-Lewis, you will quickly agree that she is destined to sing. Inspiring and uplifting, her debut project entitled " Miracles" will take you into the inner courts of worship. Tanya DallasLewis’s voice has enabled her to travel some very special roads. From Amateur Night at the Apollo to the most notable political gatherings in our nation’s capital, her singing has entertained, empowered, and inspired. The daughter of a pastor who began singing in her father’s church, Tanya has been singing for as long as she can remember. From singing the National Anthem for Jesse Jackson and the Mayor of D.C., to sharing the stage with artists like Donnie McClurkin, Vickie Winans, Mary Mary, Kenny Lattimore, and Richard Smallwood, and many more. She’s appeared on three gospel CD’s, and has sung for the U.S. Army, BET, the Congressional Black Caucus, and the National Negro Council of Black Women. Recently, Tanya was personally invited by Dr. Bobby Jones to appear on his show, “Bobby Jones Gospel.” Tanya has performed on Radio One’s “One Love Cruise” and was featured on Coco Brother’s “Play It or Fade It” in which she prevailed. The angelic voice travels, spreading the good news of Christ wherever she goes.
She has been nominated and received several awards. Her current video entitled “Something About a Miracle” is in rotation on BET Video Gospel. Tanya’s current singles “Something About A Miracle” and “Faults” are taking the gospel music industry by storm. Amidst her successful career as an on-air reporter for the Ion Television Network, Tanya works in the music ministry at her church as a worship leader, a youth choir director, and a youth leader. Tanya has a servant’s heart and she is ready for the mission. When you meet Tanya, you may feel like you've known her all your life. She's warm, loves to laugh, and gets kicks out of going against the grain. She's a rebel at heart [in a good way]! Tanya is married and has two little boys. She‘s a down home girl who treasures family and relationships, and loves to sing from her soul.
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Interview with Tanya Dallas Lewis Hello Tanya, thank you for the opportunity to interview you during your busy schedule. We know this is a very exciting time in your life, as you recently released your CD ―Miracles‖ A CD in which you released the anointing and power in your voice. We listened to “Something about Miracles” and “Faults” both very encouraging titles. PPM: What inspired/encouraged you to use your voice for the glory of God? Tanya: Well, actually, the original reason that I decided to use my voice for the glory of God is a little less exciting and spiritual than one might think or expect, LOL! Growing up, I was a pastor‘s daughter, and my mom was an evangelist. My mom forced me to sing! I had NO SAY in the matter. And I would cry, as I stood in front of the entire church, being forced to sing for the Lord! Hahahaha! If that‘s not a ‗black mama‘ I don‘t know what is! But something strange happened. God revealed Himself to me in a way that I could know and understand, even at the young age of 4 and 5 yrs old. I didn‘t know Him and trust Him simply b/ca my parents did. Now, I knew him for myself!!! And as I got to know Him for myself—I fell in love with Him—and you couldn‘t make me STOP singing for His glory, and His alone! PPM: Your songs speak about the tough times to be endured and the miracles that follow. Is this something you had to personally experience for yourself? Tanya: Yes, indeed! If I had the time to tell you all the times I stood in need of a miracle! I remember in high school, as a senior, I applied to many different universities. I got into them all! Praise God! But how could I afford to attend the colleges that I had applied to? My elder sister and I were practically twins, and my parents were faced with sending two children to college at the same time. Well, of course God made a way, but after the first semester at college, we got a call from the financial aid department stating that I was ineligible to return due to changing requirements with financial aid. I cried, I cried, I CRIED! And then, I abruptly stopped crying. I‘ll never forget it, I was sitting in the living room of my best friend Kee-Kee‘s house, and I think my sudden change in composure startled her. You see, I remembered what God had promised me. He told me that I would attend George Mason University.
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That was that. I didn‘t care what the new updates or requirements were for financial aid. Those new requirements obviously didn‘t know ‗my God.‘ About a week later, the financial aid office called, and just like that, everything was well. I was indeed able to return back in the Fall Semester. God always keeps His promises. And faith is not panicking. I remembered His promise to me, and stood on His word. Needless to say, I graduated with a B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Television Broadcast and Production and soon enrolled into graduate school. PPM: Tanya where do you see yourself 1 year from now with your music? Tanya: I trust God with the outcome of where I am in one year or one thousand. Again, I know what He has promised me, and one thing I‘ve learned after knowing Him since I was 5 yrs old is that He sometimes operates on ‗CP‘ time! I joke around with Him all the time about that! LOL! He may be late, [and God is NEVER late], but He is ALWAYS on time. But, since you asked the question, let me be a good girl and answer and declare some things into the atmosphere. In one year‘s time I see myself as a nationally and internationally renowned artist with a music ministry that is fruitful and anointed, with great reach and expanded borders and territory, that draws not attention to me, but to the God that I serve, and the love that He has for His creation. God is „knowable.‟ And His love for us is ridiculously amazing! PPM: What would you like to say to encourage those who are enduring tough times at the moment, waiting for their miracles to follow?
Tanya: Even as you are waiting on God, keep in mind that He‘s waiting on YOU, too! LOL! Sometimes it is ‗WE‘ [you and me] that are the hold up to breakthrough and answered prayers and great works in our lives! Amen! PPM: What do you do during your spare time when you’re not on the road? Tanya: I host a radio show called ‗The Music Box‟ that airs every Thursday at 7pm EST on blogtalk radio, which is a lot of fun! I play the best in Christian and Gospel music, as well as news, celebrity interviews and some fun interactive segments!
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I can‘t do this journey the same without them! No doubt about it! ♥ PPM: Please leave us your contact info and where your CD‘s can be purchased!
I‘m also a 12yr television host, and I had a non-profit organization called POPW Inc. that focuses on black married women [blacks have the lowest marriage rates out of any other rate], and helping us to STAY married—as we hold the largest sphere of influence in the home. Marriage is work! Don‘t sleep! LOL! I also love playing Game Cube/Nintendo DS and watching cartoons and playing Nerf dart gun with my three boys [hubby and two boys]. I love being the only gal in the house! I wouldn‘t have it any other way! The last thing, I direct a children‘s choir and serve as a worship leader on the praise & worship team and work with the youth ministry. Those things make my heart beat! ♥
Tanya: For bookings, please contact Wanda Adams at 404.474.3403 or e-mail her at marketingministry@live.com. I‘d love to come to your church or organization and sing, or do music workshops, or host youth conferences, etc. Please also check me out www.TDLMusicNews.com and purchase my CD ‗Miracles!‘ You can also find me on CD Baby, Amazon.com, Digstation, iTunes and soon to be in stores! Thank you once again Tanya for this opportunity to speak with you. PPM prays much success in your life and career. God Bless!
PPM: Is there anything you would like to share or leave with PPM audience? Tanya: I just want to say thank you and send big hugs and kisses to all my family and friends who continue to show support and love towards me on this fun, trying, amazing, treacherous and adventurous journey in the music industry/ music ministry!
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We all feel at some point in life that we‘ve been forgotten by others, unloved, not respected, disregarded, and left out in the cold. I find myself thinking this way countless times as I lie in a hospital bed wondering who really loves me, who is a real friend, who is really praying for me, who cares about my well being and who has my best interest at heart…Many years I considered Sickle Cell Disease as this thorn in my side or a curse but in actuality it is my blessing…it allows me to give others hope, when I need hope, it allows me to give others a healing when I need a healing, it allows me to help others believe when I need to believe…. God never said this journey would provide you with only good things in life, but things we don‘t suspect will and do happen, are the very things that happen to folk like me and you…This journey has been set up in such a way where you have to trust that God knows what‘s best at all times, not sometimes…Even when you feel like you have reached your bottom with no one there to hold your hand, give a hug, a word of encouragement, an embrace or even a kiss on the forehead…. Hmmm, God allows these thorns to be in our lives so we don‘t forget that He is the one we need every minute of each day.
He has not forgotten you child! Just know He always has you in the palm of His hand....giving you much needed rest when needed, protection when you need it, being your comforter by coming along side you when your path gets a little rough to hold your hand or even pick you up and carry you! He has you! Some days I feel as if we can‘t fly because I have these broken wings….I‘ve come to realize, my wings are not broken, God is just giving me larger wings to reach and acquire more territory... God will never forget you. Your name is engraved on the palm of His hand. This engraving tells me I am forever His and He loves me enough to want to see my name to bring to His remembrance how much he loves and cares for me every second, every minute, & every hour of each day. God is my love, my true love—I have to search no more! By Tina Kay Hughes Author of ―TKay‘s Inspirationals: Walking in Your Season, www.tinakay.net
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Breanna Forrest is an American Gospel singer-songwriter and the youngest, as well as the only girl, of four children born to Barbara Forrest and the late Minister Thomas Forrest Sr. on January 16, 1991. She began singing in church at the age of four and writing songs for the children‘s choir as early as eight years-old. She currently resides in Fayetteville, North Carolina where she attends Fayetteville State University as a sophomore pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. As a recording artist, Breanna has worked with Dorothy Norwood, Vashawn Mitchell, Fayetteville State University's United Voices Of Praise, KJ Scriven, Emory Anderson, Michael Ross, Becky White, Chris Sinkler and God's Remnants, Markise Hicks and The Melchizedek Order, and Rottis B. On November 30, 2010 Breanna Forrest released her first solo album entitled "Greatest Love" to the public in concert under the production of James Hill Jr. and it is available on Itunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, Napster, and CD Baby.
You know what I have to say, cut off all that is dead and dying in your life...if it or they aren‘t growing around you they are dead to you & will eventually stunt your growth to the point of you living a slow death...waiting for the next day to the next day to the next day for what....I told you God gave us all free will, and with it--is where you stand with the choice to choose right or wrong, life or death, good or bad...that's your own choice...don't turn your life into a sob story (or song) about what he or she did to me and what they aren‘t doing for me...it's up to you to choose life, happiness, joy, and peace...but if all that is in your ear are idiotic people talking a bunch of nonsense that does not help you cut them off....God said He prunes back all that is dead so the tree can grow...so don't stunt your growth, live this thing called life that you've been given to the fullest...put your earphones on blocking all that is hindering you out, God is my DJ and the dance floor is my life....much love Tina Kay Hughes
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Do you let your dreams define your vision? I prayed to God this morning before retiring to sleep to show me a dream or vision for my life. Then, I woke up at 9:30 a.m. to watch Joyce Meyer who started out with the words "did you ask God to show you a dream or vision" and she spoke from Habakkuk 2:1-3. This Scripture explains how we boldly ask God to show us what He has for us because we are tired and weary not to see change, then write it and make it plain, and wait earnestly for its appointed time. We don't like to WAIT. We are to dream, plan, and don't let life situations or fear steal your dreams and visions. These writings are remembrance of where we were and where God has taken us. Resist the spirits of negativity--we got to fight. 2 Timothy 1:5-7 speaks on Timothy being the protĂŠgĂŠ of Paul and witnessed all the sufferings Paul had to undergo and asked himself or was frightened of what may happen to him if he followed his footsteps. But he also saw his faith and his family's faith that can last through generations. He had the power to believe in a sound mind. See your dreams come to pass for Yahweh is the vindicator for your life. 1 Samuel 3:1-3, 10-13, tell us how Eli got passive and allowed his sons to do what they wanted, even sleeping with prostitutes in front of the House of God. He was no longer handling his business because of his old age and got weary.
Don't get weary when you're a representative of Christ. We need to stay sharp. Therefore, Samuel was called to replace Eli, for God needed someone with fresh faith. Do you want God to replace you? Start and finish what God gave you. Vision for your life, was placed in your heart, to reach for it and see it come to fruition. Don't get discouraged in waiting. Information becomes a revelation. Speak power and life to deactivate negative thoughts. We can never out give GOD. Give yourself today. *this message was derived from watching Joyce Meyers, in my own words. I needed this message and hope it gets a hold of you too. Adrienna Turner
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Her stage presence is captivating, drawing each audience member behind the veil into a pure worship experience.
Her voice is crystal clear and angelic--taking a sincere praise from altars and stages across the globe right into the very chamber of God that destroys yokes and sets the captives free!
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Her stage presence is captivating, drawing each audience member behind the veil into a pure worship experience. Her voice is crystal clear and angelic--taking a sincere praise from altars and stages across the globe right into the very chamber of God that destroys yokes and sets the captives free! Kim Person‘s songs represent a living testimony of the most intimate encounter with the Holy Spirit that can change your life! From humble beginnings to high accolades in competitions across the nation, and performances abroad her stylish vocals have touched the hearts of many and compelled the masses to want more. Raised in a small town in North Carolina, her grandparents knew she was destined to make a difference in the music industry. She started singing at the tender age of two, standing on top of a cement block ministering to crowds through song. Today, Kim‘s cement block has transformed into center stages across the United States and television broadcasts throughout the world. In the past decade alone, Kim Person has toured throughout cities in Tennessee, Virginia, Florida, Arizona, and California, in addition to both North and South Carolina. Kim also opened for and performed with Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Darwin Hobbs, Kirk Carr, Deitrick and Damita Haddon.
Aside from her concert tours, Person also captivated audiences in theater during the T.J. Hemphill gospel play ―Perilous Times‖ with Vicki Winans, William Murphy, and Orlando Wright. She is a three-time Female Vocalist of the Year for the North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild for the Gospel Music Workshop of America and her many accolades are far from over. Person brought the love of God into the hearts of audiences around the world as she became a finalist for, the 2006 Gospel Focus Talent Search sponsored by the Word Network. When Kim‘s presence graced the cover of TCP Magazine as one of ―Raleigh‘s Angels‖, receiving recognition as one of the rising stars in the Triangle area—this marked a true fact that Kim Person‘s angelic style is truly worth experiencing as she continues her rise to the top of the gospel music industry! Kim Person expresses sincere aspirations as a seasoned recording artist when speaking of her competitions and her current project, Speak Life sharing, ―My goal is to reach as many people as I can with the word of God through music!‖
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Kim‘s natural progression as an artist, psalmist, praise and worship leader, plus choir clinician to now CEO of her own company is one of her greatest accomplishments, showing her versatility and potential as a future gospel music mogul. Through her wonderful relationship with her supportive husband Talmadge, the beautiful husband and wife duo launched KLP Enterprises, LLC that includes a record, publishing, and booking and management company for Kim. She excitedly adds, ―This allows me to be hands on and even more creative in every aspect of the music industry, particularly the music side, and the opportunity to do all this with my husband by my side is truly priceless!‖ Person has also produced two additional recordings entitled ―You Are My Everything‖ and ―Sincerely Yours‖. Both recordings continue to invite listeners to experience an intimate relationship with God and enter into the very peace of God that is within each believer and is waiting to be found within every non-believer she hopes to help save through her music. Kim‘s vocal range and melodic sensitivity pierces each soul with love and evokes the presence of God within every listener. If you need a word from the Lord—look no further! Her songs will draw you nigh unto Him!
Interview with Kim Person Hello Kim, thank you for taking the time out for Promoting Purpose Magazine to interview you during your busy schedule. PPM: Kim at the age of 2 you ministered to the crowd in songs. At what age did you realize and understood the anointing you had on your life through gospel singing? Kim: My family has always told me there was something special about me. From the age of 2, they would stand me on a cement block and let me minister to crowds in our community. I quickly became known as the little girl with the big voice. While many children were playing with baby dolls and riding their bicycles like most little children did, I was rehearsing with my aunt and grandparents learning the next song for our young group called the Cradle Rolls.
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Promoting Purpose Magazine
Interview with Kim Person! PPM: Kim you are a 4-time Apollo Award winner and 3 times NC-Gospel Announcers Guild Female Vocalist of the year. When you received your first award how did you feel? Kim: I was overwhelmed with joy to be recognized by my peers, truly it was indescribable. I have been in the spotlight all my life, in my teen and college years I was a pageant queen for Miss Black America, Miss Teen Omega and winner of several talent shows but nothing gave me more pleasure than winning an award for my music from my peers and radio announcers. It was indeed an eye opener that I was on the right track to fulfill my goals in life through my music. PPM: Were there any obstacles that tried to change or even stop you from pursuing your ministry as a female gospel vocalist? Kim: Yes I have faced many obstacles and have felt like giving up on my music career for fear of trying to please people and lack of resources to make my dream happen. I use to travel to the major conventions and conference that were the places noted to be the place where new talent is discovered. I would perform there in hopes of being discovered but would leave with a broken heart. I learned from that experience to chart my on course and let God show me the path to take and so far I have been amazed at the artist I have become and how God has used me to blessed, encourage and inspire people of all walks to walk in their destiny and not let any one stop you from that purpose. I‘ve learned the value of turning a NO into a Yes and make it work so that God‘s glory shines through me. I now know that obstacles are challenges for God to show forth his purpose in my life. PPM: How are you walking in your purpose/destiny here on earth? Kim: Learning to trust God through prayer and fasting and seeking his face for direction. My daily prayer is that God will use me and order my steps so that I can be who he wants me to be. My daily routines consist of prayer, reading God‘s word and any positive readings that will enhance me in everything that I do. I am very active in my local church and aspire to be a helping hand wherever I can. I set high expectation therefore I always have something to reach for daily. I strive to be the best I can be. If you never aspire to be anything you want be, but I pride myself on making positive deposits in everything I do. I try to keep a balance of my career and family life and it has paid off in my home as well as during my travels .
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Interview with Kim Person PPM: Kim you have a very powerful and anointed voice in which catches your listener’s attention anywhere. With that being said you were working on a project entitled Speak Life, a very powerful title. How did this title Speak Life came about? And while working on this project what did you want the listeners to understand or receive from it? Kim: I had the opportunity to work with 2-time Grammy Award Winning producer Cedric Thompson on this project. It was an amazing journey for me. I learned the meaning of favor with having the opportunity to work with such an awesome producer who has worked with artist such as Donald Lawrence, Karen Clark-Sheard, Stephanie Mills, etc. I had to bring my A game and give it my all and that is what I did. Each song on this project represents my journey and tells my story. The song "Speak Life" came about as I had gotten in a state of depression and low self-esteem had a grip on me. I had been praying and had not seen an answer and I heard the voice of the Lord say, you are never too young or too old to fulfill my purpose. You just have to speak the right thing, the right confessions, speak life to your destiny and that's where the song was birth. What I want the listener to take away from this song is "Never give up on your hopes and dreams as God has a special plan for your life". Don't look at what is happening in the lives of others and think he has forgotten you but celebrate and give him praise while you wait. Speak positive confessions, Speak Life to your purpose, to your destiny as it will come to pass. I'm a witness!! PPM: Some feel if they are not singing in front of a crowd, well known or receiving attention from the public. They may not be good enough to be a gospel singer. What advice would you give someone that may feel that way? Kim: Always aim to sing for an audience of ONE. If you make that your main concern the crowds and the public attention will come. Always remain humble and ready to serve in your local church and community as this has been one avenue that has been helpful for me. PPM: What do you do during your spare time to relax? Kim: I relax by spending time with my loving and supportive husband of 16 1/2 years, Talmadge, and my family. Attending nieces, and nephews basketball games, cooking and shopping. Reading and writing and of course movies and hanging out with friends.
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KIM PERSON PPM: How important is family time to you? Kim: Family is very important to me. I balance my career and my family life. I pride myself on being a great support to my husband and family. I love having them on the road with me, I have 7 background singers all family, that travel with me 3 are my sisters and 4 1st cousins, as well as my loving mother who travels with me to make sure I have everything I need to make a great impression. We love spending time with each other. We spend vacations together. They are my biggest support team. Other than my husband, I have 5 sisters and 3 brothers and we try to stay very active and in touch with each other. We love unconditional. The world see's me as the gospel artist but when we are all together they see me as just Kim. We have a blast together and live up to the word family. PPM: Tell us where others can go to get your CD’s as well as how to get in contact with you for booking info and etc? Kim: You can purchase your copy of the project from www.kimperson.org, iTunes, www.cdbaby.com, Rhapsody.com, Amazon.com for booking details: Wanda Adams Marketing Ministry 404 474 3403 We appreciate your support in advance. PPM: Is there anything you would like to say to your fans as well as the PPM readers? Kim: Be yourself and allow the glory of God that's within you to show forth. The greatest asset you have is being the greatest YOU. Reaching for greatness cost you something, it's worth the fight cause in the end you win. Pride yourself in making great moments as great moments are born from great opportunities. Cease the moment!
Thank you Kim for your time, we look forward to hearing more great things about you. Keep up the good work. Continue to walk in your purpose and minister to others through your anointed songs. Promoting Purpose Magazine pray you and your family much success!
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GRAB YOUR COPY TODAY! Awards • 3-Time North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild, Female Vocalist of the Year. • McDonald’s Gospel Superfest III New Artist Showcase Winner • Gospel Focus 13 Finalist for the Word Network • New Artist Winner for Thomas Dorsey Showcase • 4-Time Apollo Award Winner Performances • NC Gospel Announcers Guild Annual Convention(s) • Gospel Music Workshop of America Conventions • Bobby Jones Artist Retreat • Bobby Jones presents ―The Urban Summit‖ • Teresa Hairston Praise & Worship Conference • Shirley Caesar Annual Convention • Spiritual Awakening • Armundo Hancock Show • The Light 103.9 Lamplighter‘s Award Show • The Light 103.9 Summerfest • Women‘s Empowerment • Pastor‘s Expanding Your Vision Conference featuring Bishop T.D. Jakes • Speak Life Tour-Guest Psalmist over 30 churches throughout national & regional areas
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TESTIMONY BY: BRO ALBERT MCKINNON SR.
My Story In the month of May 2010, I became sick in my stomach and during this time I began losing weight. I visited the doctor to find out what was happening with my body. I was diagnosed with stomach cancer and I found out that it had spread to other vital parts in my body. My doctor did not waste any time preparing my family and me for the treatment of the cancer. I was totally relying on The Lord during this transition within my body as well as the transition that would happen within my family. My family was very concerned, and some didn‘t take it so well, but I had to be strong for them as well as for myself. I said to The Lord that, ―I am in your hands. Let Your Will be done during this period in my life. Deliver me from this stronghold that is presenting itself in my body.
My Testimony Let me share with you what The Lord has done in my life during the time that I have been treated for this disease. While undergoing treatment, The Lord was true to His Word. He stepped in and stopped the cancer from spreading throughout my body. Furthermore, He shrank the tumor that was lodged in my stomach.
I have not been able to work during this time, and my family has been depending on my wife‘s salary. Together we have been depending on Jesus to bring us through. Our Lord said that He will not leave us and that He will take care of us. Once again The Lord has been true to His Word. The Lord has provided me with food assistance and I will also be receiving Social Security Disability in the amount of $1,666 per month as well as receiving compensation from the Veterans Administration. On my job I have a health insurance premium of $80 per week, but every time I would try to pay the premium, some of my co-workers would come out of their own pockets and pay most or all of the payments. You cannot tell me that The Lord isn‘t good. I bless His Name! I could not have done any of this without the Lord. Trust in The Lord. He has done this for me and He can do the same for you. Just have faith and believe. This is my testimony.
Before my fight with cancer, I weighed 180 lbs. I lost 42 lbs. But by the help of God, I weigh 176 lbs. I thank God!
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We Are Still Standing….. By: Minister Tony Jones Sr. As we embark on another year the Lord has given us, have you noticed that we are still standing? Have you noticed that Jesus has provided, He has protected, and He has supplied our needs according to His riches in glory (Phil 4:19)? The devil (with a lower case‗d‘ because he is not as big as we make him out to be) painted a grim picture for some of us in 2010, but look at us now, standing tall in 2011. His carefully plotted plan to annihilate us, to extinguish all hopes and dreams, and to diminish the idea of getting back up after the barrage of blows, was a gross miscalculation. We stood up in the face of adversity and said, ―Rejoice not against me, O my enemy, for when I fall I will arise‖ (Micah 7:8). Could it be possible that the enemy forgot that our capability to stand after such abuse was not in our own ability, but in Jesus Christ?
As we rewind 2010 in our mind, we will find death all about us, hopelessness, despair and tragedy at every conjuncture, anxieties and fears tried to consume us but here we stand, not by our frail power but by the might of Him who lives in all of us.
Through the hard times and disappointments and discouragements, and through the heart aches and heart breaks, here we stand. Our footing is soundly secured upon that Rock, that Mighty Fortress, and that High Tower, which is Jesus Christ. Make no mistake about it my brothers and sisters, Jesus have given power to the faint, to those who have no might He increases strength (Is 40:29).
We have fought, struggled, kicked, battled, gained territory and lost ground, and exchange blows with the evil one himself, but when the dust settles, and looks like a waste land, here we come from out of the shadows of death, STANDING. We don‘t know what 2011 will bring to us, financial blessings, gifts and surprises, raises and bonuses, but we do know what our spiritual position will be, we do understand what our spiritual posture will be, and that is standing on the promises of God because has the ability to help us to stand (Roman 14:4)!
As we rewind 2010, lives have been lost, fortunes and life savings have vanished, the failure of our feeble mortgage and financial system has been given massive media exposure, as millions have lost their homes through foreclosure, yet we are still standing. Take the time, if nothing else, and see for yourself what the Lord has done, victories he has won, one by one, you will easily notice that we are still standing!
We have been cautioned, warned by the spirit of resentment, bitterness, hurt and pain of 2010 not love again 2011, don‘t trust again, they say, don‘t believe again, the enemy whispers, but as we look over our shoulder at 2010 and walk in 2011, we find ourselves loving again, trusting again and believing God again! Yes, we are still standing!
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Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)
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Tell us how we’re doing with our ministry. Have we encouraged, inspired, or released spiritual tools? Which articles have you applied to enhance your daily walk with God? Share your testimonies or suggestions with us; you may see it in one of our future issues. Please send all response to submissions@promotingpurposemagazine.com
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COVERED MINISTRIES
LINDA JOHNSON Linda Bridgewater Johnson is a native of Fort Worth, Texas, by way of New Jersey. She is the Founder/CEO of Covered Ministries LLC, Back 2 Basic Seminar, and PrePaid Photography. She began her writing career in 2006 after facing a few traumatic experiences in her life. She used each sentence as therapy, which led her to empowering others through her perseverance and acts of forgiveness. A defining moment in her life took place when the Holy Spirit led her to put her testimony in writing. She tried to run from the assignment that would remove her from her comfort zone. However, the spirit would not allow her to rest until she surrendered her will for God‘s will. In doing so, she gave birth to her first book, In Bed with a Snake, From Defilement to Deliverance of Sexual Demons.
Four years later, her book was released and recently received the 2010 Excellent Book Award from the Black Essence Award Incorporation. Prior to the book release while operating under the anointing, Sexual Immorality Seminars was birthed. Both seminars are founded on the biblical foundation in equipping all genders, races, and religious affiliations to return to righteous living and Godly principles.
In 2009, she became a prayer warrior for the Count It All Joy TV broadcast, hosted by her pastor, Bishop Jeffery D. Thomas, Sr., Mt. Rose Church of Dallas, Texas. Of which, she is a faithful member and Servant Leader for Singles Serving God Ministry. She serves under the mentorship of Minister Cyndi Diggs, St. John Baptist Church of Grand Prairie, Texas. Linda is a highly sought after speaker regarding taboo subjects that center around sexual immorality, healing, generational cures, secret sin, strongholds, forgiveness, and deliverance.
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Numerous interviews have already been conducted: Count It All Joy TV Broadcast, with host Bishop Jeffery D. Thomas, Sr., The Real Talk Empowerment Commentaries on Blogtalkradio with host Christopher L. King, Rejoice 1110 AM with host Cedric Bailey, Gospel Jam Radio with host Monae Miller, Women Let‘s Talk Blog Radio with host Dr. Angela L. King, and Speak Out/Speak Up with host Karen Hunter. Her interviews have been Podcast downloaded from as far away as Mongolia, Bosnia, Ireland, and Hungary. Debut features have been conducted by many digital magazines. Specifically, her personal ministry, Covered Ministries, LLC is dedicated to serving as spiritual activists for purity, abstinence, and HIV/AIDS. Now she uses all her gifts together in serving the Women‘s Haven, South Dallas Nursing Home, Boys and Girls Club, and other assignments. Her compassion for serving extends into her career with the government.
She is the recipient of numerous outstanding accolades from the Department of Homeland Security, written Commendations from Congressman Mac Thornberry, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, Congresswoman Kay Granger, and twotime Law Enforcement Academy graduate. Another highlight of her service career stems from receiving the Outstanding Achievement and Dedication to Public Service Award from the Federal Executive Board of government.
There is nothing like feeling something missing in your life as a youth. Having low-self esteem on one hand and being a bully on the other hand was not the best choice I made growing up. Actually, the end result made me feel worthless. It was easy for me to use my body to entice young boys to fill a void. I did whatever it took to get their attention. However, as I matured, I out grew most of those actions except the misuse of my body. Recognizing it as my temple or vessel came much later in life. Another crucial mistake I continued to make was tying every decision to emotions…
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COVERED MINISTRIES
yearning to be accepted. I knew I was a good person, treated people well, but I kept making a carnal mistake in thinking a man completes me. My mind equated intimacy and sexual immorality with ‗he loves me‘. Wrong! When you operate in the flesh, you tend to have those types of thoughts. One day God set my mind free from such unrighteous thinking. Based on these reasons I have been called to strengthen others wrestling in these areas linked to sexual immorality, especially our youth. According to scripture, we are supposed to train them up in the way they should go. This requires expounding, repeating, and rehearsing biblical principles. Wisdom from each experience can assist them in making an informative decision, especially when it comes to fornication. Fornication can lead to so many fleshly acts. All of which, grieve the Holy Spirit which resides in us as believers. It is time to get back to the basics in understanding the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.
The peer pressure youth feel and void singles feel make them a prime candidate for, ―Back 2 Basics‖ or ―Sexual Immorality‖ Seminars. Both seminars minister to the specific needs of that group. Back 2 Basics Seminars is a collaborated effort with a church or ministry to coordinate four Proverbs 31 clinics. Each clinic is designed to enhance virtuous qualities according to biblical scripture regarding celibacy, purity, abstinence, etiquette, lap covers, healthy cooking, and health care, just to name a few.
Sexual Immorality Seminar is a manifested rendition of my award winning book, In Bed with a Snake, From Defilement to Deliverance of Sexual Demons. All content is biblically based and presents a holistic resolution to everyday situations focused on righteous living or deliverance.
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COVERED MINISTRIES, LLC FOUNDED BY LINDA JOHNSON
Both seminars were created with all genders and brethren in mind. Covered Ministries, LLC can tailor the seminars to fit any ministry need without changing the initial vision. It is time to love this generation back to life and pour the fruit of the Spirit upon them. They must understand the spiritual significance of their temple. How can a young person stay pure? By obeying God‘s word and following its rule, Psalm 119:9 (NLT). It is our assignment as believers to remind them of God‘s word and His love for them. Covered Ministries, LLC has one more holistic, yet candid, resource available to everyone in book form. In Bed with a Snake, From Defilement to Deliverance of Sexual Demons, has a chapter for singles, men, youth, parents, and saints. Youth will benefit from Who’s Touching Your Children. Some other chapters beneficial to saints is: How to be Comfortable in Your Singleness, Man Up!, Relationship Wisdom, Healing Beyond Your Past, Internal Healing and Deliverance, Virtuous Defined, Traits of a Godly Man – Before He Sinned, Sistah to Sistah, Games We Play and a Hot Mess!. It closes out with an Advice Guide rich with manna from heaven. Let‘s get back to the basics and bring order back into our homes while sharing some wisdom with our youth.
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DON’T GO WITH THE CROWD by: Rachel Moore
Have you ever heard the saying ―don‘t go with the crowd cause if you do you something bad could happen‖? Believe it or not there is much truth to this statement. Of course we as believers in the Lord have been called to be separate, to be a peculiar people and even to be holy (Read I Peter2:9 and I Peter1:16). More than that, he desires to give unto us levels of spiritual intimacy reserved for those who are called by his name. We are truly a blessed people but at times when we follow the crowd, we lose sight of the heart and will of the Master. Let‘s take a look at some crowds of people in the bible and what those results were. The crowd of people gathered in Genesis chapter 11. These people were the descendants of Noah and had been given orders to spread out and replenish the earth after the flood. However they decided it would be best to all live in the land of Shinar. Then this same group of people decided to build a tower up to heaven. God saw that the people were of one accord and realized that nothing would stop them. Result, God had to come down and mix up the languages so the tower wouldn‘t be completed. This crowd tried to take matters into their own hands but God blocked it!
In the book of Jeremiah, Jeremiah encourages the Children of Israel to repent, to serve the Lord and to walk in his ways. If they do these things, the Lord has promised to bless them. This crowd however in Jeremiah 6:16-17, stated that they will NOT walk in the ways of the Lord and they will NOT listen to what is being spoken to them by the prophet. Result, this crowd ended up going into captivity and suffered greatly at the hand of their enemies. Throughout the Gospels there were countless crowds of people that followed Jesus. Through the miracles he performed, many were healed, delivered from demonic spirits and even enjoyed nice fish dinners that they didn‘t have to pay for! Wherever he went the crowd was there and he ministered to the needs of those people. When he entered Jerusalem, this crowd waved Palm branches in the air saying, ―Hosanna, Hosanna blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord‖. What a way to make someone feel welcomed! By the end of this week however, this same crowd was saying, ―crucify him crucify him‖! What a drastic change to go from giving honor and praise to asking for his death! Result, Jesus is crucified on the cross and was accused of being King of the Jews (All those events happened to fulfill Old Testament prophecies)!
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When the Lord blesses a church or individuals within the church these are all wonderful things. However, in the midst of the blessings or when the window of heaven is closed are we still willing to seek his face? Are we willing to do his will even if no one else does? Can we declare ―Lord if you don‘t give me another thing I‘ll still love you?‖ If you are just one in the number then you won‘t be able to answer these questions. God is looking for those who will step out of the crowd and boldly proclaim, ―Here I am. Lord have your way in me‖!
Nominate your Pastor or Minister to be placed in our future magazine titled. Men and Women of God from all 50 states. Please send in the name, bio and state in which your leader is from. Also a website link if applicable to submissions@promotingpurposemagazine.com
Peace and Blessings Rachel M. Moore, PPM Writer/Advisor
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WHO ARE YOU? By: Shelby Frederick Who are you? My name is Shelby Frederick. No, that is your name. Who are you? I am a massage therapist. No. That is your occupation. Who are you? I am Pentecostal. No, that‘s your denominational preference. None of these statements tell you who I really am. If my extremities were amputated, would I still be me? YES! If all of my organs were transplanted, would I still be me? ABSOLUTELY! Who we are is far more than what we see on the outside. 2 Corinthians 5:16 says, ―Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh]‖. The two primary ways we identify ourselves is by what we look like or what we do. To take that one step further, when Christians are asked to identify themselves in relation to our faith, we usually talk about our denominational position (Baptist, Presbyterian, Methodist) or our role in the church (Sunday School teacher, choir member, deacon, usher). Is who you are determined by what you do, or is what you do determines who you are? Your hope for growth, meaning and fulfillment as a Christian is based on understanding who you are – specifically, your identity in Christ as a child of God. Your understanding of who God is and who you are in relationship to Him is the critical foundation for your belief system and your behavior patterns as a Christian. Questions to ask yourself: 2.
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Do you naturally identify yourself as a child of God as you think about who you are? Why or why not? Where in your own life do you see a connection between your belief system and your behavior patterns?
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What changes in your behavior might result if you were able to clearly see yourself as the muchloved child of God that you are? Jesus promises His people that ―You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free‖ (John 8:32). Our identity in Jesus Christ is a fundamental truth that we as believers need to understand if we are to experience this promised freedom and to grow to Christian maturity.
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CHERYL DONOVAN
Someone once asked Cheryl Donovan what her passion was in life. I said, ―God has given me a heart for women who are struggling with life‘s twists and turns. My message to them is even when we can‘t diagnose the problem; God‘s word can bring us healing and wholeness. I want to bring this message to all women. I want them to understand that until they fall in love with Jesus, the chains of sin and bondage will never be broken‖. Cheryl Donovan has developed a unique voice that manifests itself through her literary endeavors. Her newest contribution, ―Women What in Hell are You Thinking Now: Transform Your Thinking to Transform Your Life,‖ arrives in bookstores March 2011. It compels women to look at themselves and their lives and take inventory. If they don‘t like what they see then it‘s time to clean the clutter.
―I love everything that I do‖, she says.―It is the path God has placed me on. When I became pregnant I was scared my life would be over but He knew best. Nothing I do is a job to me. It‘s a lifestyle: One where I do my best to pour into others what God has poured into me; love, power, and a sound mind‖.
Welcome to the world of Cheryl Donovan. Donovan grew up in Houston, Texas the daughter of parents who divorced when she was four. Her father is a prominent Baptist preacher in Houston. In spite of the vicissitudes of life which found Cheryl a pregnant teen in an abusive marriage, she has now become a highly sought after inspirational speaker, educator, talk show host, and award winning author.
Meanwhile, she‘s also managed to find a real niche as a writer, regularly being included in anthologies like ―The Triumph of My Soul‖, ―Gumbo for the Soul‖ and ―Victorious Living for Women‖. One reviewer has said, ―She has truly mastered the ability to ―break one down in order to build one up, much like a master subtly shaping the hearts and minds of unwitting students‖.
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Evangelist Cheryl Donavan
That passion and sincerity also comes through in person. Cheryl‘s students at a proprietary school in Houston just enjoy her presence because she‘s very open about speaking about her confusions and her shortcomings. She also shares her triumphs, breakthrough, and accomplishments and that‘s something a lot of the students find refreshing Donovan lives in Houston with her husband Keith Donovan, who made his writing debut in, ―Do You Still Do What Happens Happily Ever After‖, the couple‘s transparent piece on the realities of relationships and what it takes to have a marriage of purpose. They are the parents of three adult children and grandparents to two handsome grandsons. ―The desire of my heart is for women to see opportunities for growth and enrichment in the mundane moments of life‖, Donovan says. ―I try to help people incorporate character building into their daily routine and identify their individual gifts that can serve themselves and their families for a lifetime. I want them to see beyond what they literally know, to reshape their personal knowledge of love and hate, conformity and rebellion, innocence and experience into something with deeper meaning‖. For more information about the release of Donovan‘s new book ―Women What in Hell are You Thinking Now: Transform Your Thinking to Transform Your Life‖, visit http://www.worthmorethanrubiesministries.org or http://www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com
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