Promoting Purpose Magazine by S V Promoting Purpose

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Nominee for the 2012 Rhythm of Gospel Award! Vote for us at: www.therhythmofgospelawards.com Under Internet/Print Media of the year!

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FOUNDER/CEO Sherrell Valdezloqui VICE PRESIDENT Felix Valdezloqui CEO ASSISTANT - Carlet Horne ADVISOR - Rachel Moore Senior Editor - Damon Moore Editing Company- Tiff‟s Editing Café) Finance Columnist- J.C Stevenson CONTRIBUTOR WRITERS Daniel Duval Carlet Horne, Devin Coleman Coach Linda Hillman Adrienna Turner Dr. Inecir Matthis, Rachel Moore, Tiffany Rivera

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COVER STORY Sue Roseberry MORE FEATURES: Author Melissa Ann Ricks Author Tiffany Pratt Evangelist Cherisse Stephens GT PRODUCTIONS: TESTIMONIES: April L.A Ashe ARTICLES Finance By: J.C Stevenson Bridemovement By: Daniel Duval What Happens After Your Breakthrough By: Rachel Moore BOOK RELEASES

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Greetings, I pray that this year has been a great one for you. A lot of you may say it‟s been a lot of tests and trials this year for you. But, that‟s okay. Tests and trials strengthen your faith in God, and they are just preparing you for that spiritual promotion God has in store for you. I encourage you to stay on your knees and for you to understand that God is in control of all things. Expect the greatest in life and know that what God has in store for you is for you. I encourage you to no longer look to the left, the right, or even behind you. You must look forward so that you‟re able to focus on the purpose God has placed in you. On another note, throughout all of the spiritual attacks the enemy has tried to bring on me, by the grace of God I am still standing. This year PPM has reached its 1 year anniversary. We are both a printed and online magazine ensuring we are accommodating the digital world and those who prefer a hard copy. This year PPM was nominated for the 2011 North Carolina Gospel Announcers Guild Prestige Award which was a blessing, and I truly enjoyed myself at the award ceremony. This month, we found out we are now a 2012 nominee for the Rhythm of Gospel

Award and will be attending that award ceremony in Jacksonville, Florida July 2012.

We need your vote as every vote counts. Please vote by going to www.theryhthmofgospelawards.com and vote for Promoting Purpose Magazine under Media. Once again, I would like to thank all of you for your support for the 2011 year. As you know we are now printing bi-monthly instead of printing monthly. Therefore, instead of receiving 12 issues in 1 year, it is now 6 issues-1 year and 2 year subscriptions are 12 issues. On behalf of the Promoting Purpose Magazine Staff, we would like to wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving along with a Merry Christmas. Until 2012, be blessed and Promote your Purpose!

Yours Truly,

Sherrell Valdezloqui Sherrell Valdezloqui CEO

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Cherisse Stephens is a media specialist who currently hosts television for the Trinity Broadcasting Network's (TBN) Praise The Lord Program. She is also a television host for WATC TV, Channel 57 in Atlanta, GA where she interviews celebrity guests along with clergy, authors, recording artists and community service organizations for WATC's flagship program entitled; Atlanta Live. Cherisse Stephens is a sought after Evangelist who is in demand to speak for conferences, revivals, seminars and educational programs.

She is also a National Recording Artist with two CD's entitled Due Season and In The Wait. Cherisse Stephens is the Founder of Cherisse Stephens Ministries and hosts her own conferences which include The God's Cover-Girls Women's Conference and The Spring Forth Into Destiny Family Conference. She is a proud wife and mother of two sons. For more information: visit our website @ www.cherissestephens.com Email us @ cherisse@cherissestephens.com or godscovergirls@hotmail.com

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By: J.C Stevenson There is a sense of enjoyment that comes when we give gifts during the holidays. We all can relate to giving that perfect gift to someone and watching their eyes light up with excitement as they tear away wrapping paper to receive it. Well, there is hope and a way to do both!

As the holiday season quickly approaches, there are certain traditions that invoke a sense of nostalgia. It may be the smell of apple cider or sweet potato pie. For some, it is holiday music or earnestly awaiting the first snow fall. For me it‟s the steady gaze at elaborately adorned houses trimmed in lights and decorations as I drive through different neighborhoods. These types of innocent traditions bring a sense of peace and contentment, but then there‟s one not so innocent tradition called the Christmas “Clause.” The Christmas “Clause”, and I am not referring to Santa Claus, is that binding agreement some people make with themselves to buy gifts for their loved ones at the costly expense of going into debt. Charge now, pay later, is a tradition that was not a part of the original meaning of Christmas. Christmas, which literally means “Christ,” the anointed one, “mas,” festival or feast, is the day we share the importance of the birth of Christ with our loved ones, not reoccurring monthly payments.

The first thing to do when being mindful about spending is to formulate a plan. If you intend to use credit cards, develop a strategy to pay them off before the end of the billing cycle to avoid paying interest rates or fees. If you decide to go the route of using cash, then the first call of action is to establish a budget. Once you have the set amount, determine your list of gift recipients and whether some of the gift ideas can be made, i.e. preserves, cookies, photo book, etc. For large families you may want to incorporate the tradition of drawing names to remove any unnecessary pressure one might feel to shop for multiple people. Once you have your list of names, the next step is to operate in the power of “No.” Undoubtedly there will be opportunities to break the bank with invitations to Christmas parties and office gift exchanges. Or there might be gift ideas that are hinted, either directly or indirectly, that exceed the budgeted limit.

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These are pressure moments that ironically appear after we‟ve made a commitment to shift the way we do things. No need to panic, just look the person in the eye that is questioning you, smile graciously, and reply “No.” This holiday season does not need to be a season full of heavy burdens. As a matter of fact I‟m sure God did not intend for us to celebrate his Son with feelings of stress or anxiety. We can decide what traditions to keep and which ones to replace. If at any moment during the season you feel the financial worries of trying to accommodate your loved ones, make a decision to give that responsibility to the person it rightfully belongs to according to 1 Peter 5:7. We have been left an abundance of gifts including love, joy, peace, and patience just to name a few. I have decided to walk in my gifts and not exchange them no matter what the circumstance. This season my decision, and I do hope you join me, is to defiantly break the Christmas “Clause.”

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By: J.C Stevenon

How many times have we heard the phrase, “If I only had a million dollars…”, as if a million dollars would solve all problems known to man. Many of us have heard it, in fact many of us have probably stated it, but what can a million dollars do for a person with a poverty mindset. I‟ve read stories of people who win the lottery only to become broke or bankrupt in a relatively short amount of time. And I asked myself “How did that happen?” But the answer is really simple. You cannot solve a money problem with money. You solve a money problem by renewing your mind. There may be good intentions of using money more wisely when it comes in, but how often does financial increase occur, yet there is no change in the situation and worse still, no real accounting of where the funds went. I was guilty of that. I had an objective to pay down bills once a bonus check was received. Soon after the money was exhausted the bills were still the same and I struggled to recall what happened. Hosea 4:6 states “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” vice versa the people who have knowledge are not destroyed This is why you can read about multi-millionaires who squander their finances but reacquire their losses fairly quickly. They temporarily lose their financial stature but retain the wealthy mindset. That mindset is what helps them overcome.

Renewing your mind is not hard. It is simply updating your mental computer with new information. If your mindset is focused on impulse shopping, or cheap quality items, or relying on “hook-ups” you might be due for an upgrade. Start visiting places you don‟t normally go and talk to people outside your familiar circle of acquaintances. Test drive cars you desire to own and start declaring out loud you will be back to get it. Collect magazines that highlight fancy recreational activities, luxury homes, and successful businesses and write your name on them. This might sound materialistic but it‟s not. You are exposing yourself to a greater way of living and creating a wealthy mindset.

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Just recently I decided I want to own an airplane. When I told a few people in my circle they laughed and asked “How are you going to do that?” This immediately let me know I was sharing my vision with the wrong individuals. I then visited a nearby aviation school and spoke with a flight instructor. I shared with him my desire and he responded “You can get a really cheap one if you go with an older model.” Again, I realized I was sharing my vision with the wrong individual. While standing on the airstrip I met a gentleman who owned a plane in a nearby hangar. I struck up a conversation with him and once again shared my vision. He said “That‟s easy to do. And you have the option of recruiting investors to become part owners with you.” He proceeded to give me a sales brochure containing airplanes with some pretty hefty price tags.

We exchanged contact information and I took the brochure home to familiarize myself with it. Initially the poverty thoughts of “how on earth am I ever going to afford that?” tried to bombard me, but as I continued to look through it, I started circling the ones I preferred. All of a sudden 2 million dollar asking prices didn‟t look so out of reach. I do not own a plane yet, however, in my heart I do. My mindset regarding ownership of one has changed. It began with a vision, and after visiting an aviation school and sitting in an airplane I got a visual. After the visual I met a nice gentleman who came in agreement with my goal by giving me a brochure and I now have a roadmap. This is how renewing the mind starts. Do not get discouraged if you don‟t have a group of supporters to cheer on your vision. That may just be a sign that you are sharing with the wrong individuals. Set your compass to think using a wealthy mindset and you will open yourself up to new ideas and possibilities that will turn your dreams into a reality. As the word says in Habakkuk 2:2-3, “Write the vision and make it plain…though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.”

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A consummate artist and her gifts are truly inspiring and illuminating. She is recognized for her artistic ability and imaginative style. A graduate of the College of Santa Fe, she has a B.F.A. degree in performing arts. There seems to be no end to the talents that she possesses and those fortunate enough to hear her come away with a joyful heart and the feeling that they have been present for something beyond entertainment – it’s an experience. Sue has come a long way since her earliest memory of singing standing on top of a table in her local church to connect with audiences all across the country as a singer, songwriter, playwright, storyteller or delivering the spoken word. She‟s been playing for and directing choirs since the age of 10 years old. Her voice is incomparable and inimitable. In 2001, she started “Tell It…Storytelling by Sue Roseberry” and has gone on to perform at the Exchange Place during the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tennessee and other Storytelling Festivals throughout the country. She recently released a storytelling CD, entitled “A Story Inside Of Me”. She has also written a children‟s book and has a collection of poems which is being prepared for publishing in the near future.

Sue has written more than 200 musical pieces, which range from gospel songs to children‟s songs. She has songs that have been recorded by the Men of Promise on the GMWA Tampa Experience CD and the COGIC Mass Choir. Presentations of some of her original songs at the National GMWA Conventions have led to her music being performed in Spain, Japan and all over the United States. In 2004, she released her initial recording “Words Just Cannot Explain”. She has recorded live with the COGIC National Choir as well as the Gospel Music Workshop of America Mass Choir.

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Sue wrote many of the plays utilized in the Apollo Showcase, a theatre workshop for children ages 5 to 12 years of age as well as an ensemble work entitled, “Black Women Past & Present” which focused on the life of the late Dr. Viola Coleman, the first Black physician in Midland, Texas. She has appeared on stage with celebrity artists; Karen Clark Sheard in a musical drama, “Sex – The Silent Killer” for which she wrote three musical pieces and with Patti LaBelle in “The Heavenly Bound Train”. Sue received rave reviews for her unforgettable community theater portrayals as Effie White in Dream Girls; Bitsy in the McLaren Festival presentation of “Midville Communty Theatre”; Bessie Delany in “Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters‟ First 100 Years”, “Mahalia” in the play by the same name; and Lena Younger in the musical “Raisin” which she also directed.

Promoting Purpose Magazine Exclusive Interview with Sue Roseberry (BKA Mama Sue)

This proud, energetic mother and grandmother exploded on the international scene recently by becoming one of the Top 5 Finalists on Season 4 of Sunday Best – a national gospel singing competition on B.E.T. Network. The world has come to know and love “Mama Sue” and appreciate her sweet, humble character and that special essence that she possesses to command attention and inspire both young and old alike. What’s next? Only time will tell.

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that experience has certainly broadened my opportunities in ministry. I learned a great deal. I want to thank everyone who has prayed for and encouraged me; the ones who have taken time to reach out to me through the social networking sites or whatever. I‟m richer in relationships because of this opportunity.

Greetings Ms. Sue. Thank you for allowing Promoting Purpose Magazine to interview you during your busy schedule. Who is Sue Roseberry? I am a motivated worshipper who loves God and his people. I‟m a passionate mother and grandmother who enjoys life to the fullest. You are known for your anointed voice and appearance on Sunday Best. Please share with us briefly your experience being on stage? It was an amazing opportunity and platform for expressing my love for Jesus in my song. Along the way I met some extraordinary people and

How are you showing your purpose in your community? I believe God allows us to have influence for a reason. I‟ve always been active in my community conducting storytelling and acting workshops for children, doing community theatre, as a Chapter Rep for the West Texas Chapter – GMWA and on and on. I have a burden for youth and if this exposure helps me to help and encourage them, then I‟m most appreciative of that. I want to be an example for them of what God can do with your life if you dedicate it to him while you‟re young and you are consistent. That‟s what he‟s done for me. Are you currently in a ministry at your local church? If so what is it? : I serve as Minister of Music and also Education Coordinator for my local church, Faith Temple Church of God in Christ. I‟m also a District Missionary (responsible for Women‟s Ministry for a group of churches) and so I wear a few different hats.

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Other than using your anointed voice you’re also a story teller and have books out; tell us a little about that? Storytelling is just another way of getting the message over. It allows me the opportunity to go and share stories that build bridges between us. Jesus was a master storyteller – using parables that helped people to see themselves and others in a way that illuminated things good and bad that needed attention. That‟s what I attempt to do in my stories, all with a healthy dose of humor. But believe me, there is a lesson in each and every story. My book is a children‟s book that uses story, song, rhyme and rhythm to tell about a delightful old lady named Miss Annie. What is the one thing you would like others to know about you? That I take ministry (all of it) seriously. Whatever I‟m doing is a gift and since all good and perfect gifts come from God above, he intends for us to use them wisely and well. It doesn‟t matter whether I am speaking, singing, writing or doing a dramatic presentation…it‟s all intended to throw the spotlight on the real star – Jesus; who will use anyone that makes themselves available to him.

It is a collection of poems about numerous things – all from a spiritual perspective. I write poems all the time…they seem to be such a good way to express what I‟m feeling in my heart. I also want to publish some plays for children, youth and teens that I have written for various occasions like Easter and Christmas that are good for the church. Where can others go to connect with you via social media, along with booking you for events? I am on Facebook…You can search for me by name and also I have an Official Fan Page. For booking and information they may contact Neily Dickerson; 323-298-8860 or by email at nd@churchhowse.com. Also, they can see what I‟m up to and where I‟ll be via my website at www.sueroseberry.com. Thank you so much for allowing PPM to interview you during your busy schedule. We pray much success with your current and future projects! Blessings

Are you currently working on any projects? I am in the process of trying to publish a collection of poems that I have written called, “Thoughts from the Heart”.

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I remember as a young girl, hearing the bible verse from my grandmother, "We Overcome By The Blood Of The Lamb and By Our Testimonies" Well, it never had a major effect on me until I was older. I am a 36 year old single mom of 3 children and I am currently retired from the federal government. (from a work related accident) Because of God, I began doing radio and was always told I had a great voice. At the radio station I tried to do secular music, and I just couldn't. I would start my show off with gospel and end it with gospel. The secular songs that I played were inspirational. I knew that God was dealing with me. Last summer my children and I were homeless. We had many family members, but we were homeless. I tried shelters, but they wanted us to be separated; my son would have to stay in a shelter with men and my daughters and I could stay together. I thought this was going to be the end of my life; here I was a mom (a failure of a mom) who could not supply a home for her children. I was not on drugs, I didn't smoke and I was not â&#x20AC;&#x153;outâ&#x20AC;? on the streets. Matter of fact I was in church 3 times a week. I thought I was doing the right thing. I didn't hang out with those old friends like I used to. I wanted a relationship with God. I thought I had one. We went through the entire season of summer as a homeless family, trying to just find a place to sleep so that I could still try to save up money for a security deposit to get us a home. I was a member of a church but you know sometimes pride kicks in and I didn't want anyone to know. But my daughter, who was 13 at the time, got up and testified openly asking God and the www.promotingpurpose-magazine.com

congregation to please pray for us, because we are homeless and we don't have anywhere to go. My God!! My God!! I was like a river from that point because I knew how it affected me, but it was affecting the children. "God Deliver US!!" The Pastor and Deacons spoke with me after service and they immediately wanted to help, but you know although it was all out there, Pride. I told them we had a place to stay for the night and I would keep them posted tomorrow, of which I didn't. Needless to say at the radio station I had a meeting with the Owner and I told him the truth I cannot do secular and I can't even do my show. I told him me and the kids are homeless and I need to get some things right. Immediately, he asked why didn't I tell him I only wanted to do gospel music? I just said â&#x20AC;&#x153;I don't know.â&#x20AC;? He was fine with it and I lost my show to do production, intern training and voiceovers for the station .Anyone who saw me would think "Oh she got herself together. April is doing her thing.." But here I was homeless and dying. Oh what a Mask We Wear!! Needless to say, the summer was ending and I was getting nervous and tired.. I left my children with my mother and I went to the train station and just sat on the platform. I could hear myself just thinking KILL YOURSELF!! Just KILL YOURSELF!! The kids will be better off without you; you can't take care of them anyway.. And they will be taken care of, so just do everybody a favor and just KILL YOURSELF!! I cried and cried for about 2 hours and people passed by me, like I didn't exist. So this was my cue. I thought to myself, OKAY, so maybe it won't hurt so much and maybe death will come fast. Now don't forget I am a Christian and I know better... But I was willing to take my own life and go to hell, because I was homeless. I paced the yellow line on the platform waiting for the train to come, it came, I ran!! I was an emotional mess in distress!!

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I began to pray, GOD.. If you mean for me to be here why..why... Then I didn't want to talk to God anymore. (yes, I became angry with God) Like I have the right to be, and I walked to the end of the platform to estimate my jumping point. As I was walking a gentleman walked by me and smiled, he said "HI!!! I know you don't I?" I looked at him and I said "NO!!" and tried to walk away. He lightly grabbed my arm and said" I know you!!" It was the gentleman who played Roger Thomas on the show, "What's Happening" (Do you remember that show?). Well, now he plays on "Everybody Hates Chris" I looked at him, recognized him and immediately pulled it together, "Oh, I'm sorry I didn't recognize you." I began by asking him if he was indeed Roger Thomas and what brought him here to my town. He laughed and asked me what I was doing up here close to the tracks? I was embarrassed. I said, "Oh nothing, waiting for a friend." He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well give me a hug!!â&#x20AC;? He hugged me and my tears began to flow like a river again. Two men came up to him and asked him if he was ready and he said "Yes." He asked me if I wanted to go with them. He was going over to New York to a festival with Doug E Fresh. I declined and gave him my business card, and told him I did radio and to please stay in touch. He replied, "Of Course" I watched them walk away, and I looked up to the heavens and I smiled. Lord, that was funny!!I collected my belongings and I went to go and get my kids! We had one week left for the summer season and I was nervous, but I decided to put it all in God's hands and wait on him. That week we received help with the entire security deposit, and we found a place and moved in on that Saturday!! To God Be The Glory!!Hallelujah!! God Did It!! And I am so thankful, for his loving kindness, his grace and his mercy. I am blessed to have my own radio show and growing!

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unconscious and Dung would kill the animal and eat it.

Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is like a substance that is placed upon our words. This substance reformats the spirit realm to produce realities in line with the words that we speak in faith. The amount of faith that we have equals the amount of power that we will walk in. This substance that cannot be seen is evidence that the things we call forth will manifest from the unseen realm. In this way, faith becomes a sort of currency. We exchange our faith for the manifestation of God‟s works. Faith is a powerful force, but how can we better understand how to tap into its power? Let us begin with an illustration. Consider Dung the caveman. Dung was a great hunter in his day. His weapon of choice was the rock. When he would hunt, he would pick up a rock and throw the rock at his unsuspecting prey. If he threw the rock just right, he would hit the animal in the head. When this happened, the animal would often fall

What do Dung and his rock have to do with faith? Dung‟s arm, being the driving force behind the rock, is like our heart. The heart can be understood as the subconscious, and it is the driving force behind faith. Dung‟s rock, being the substance projected from the driving force, is like our faith. The rocks that Dung threw could be sharp or dull. As one would imagine, sharp rocks were more effective. Dung had a son. Dung‟s son was named Ung. Ung was trained to throw rocks just like his dad. What Ung found, however, was that his dad‟s way of doing things had very limited effectiveness. One day Ung had a revelation. He realized that if he bowed a piece of wood and put a string on it he could use it to launch a sharpened rock attached to a stick. He called the invention the bow and arrow. When we look at Dung‟s son, we learn a lesson. Ung had a revelation that if the driving force could be made more powerful, the rock could be launched with greater force and accuracy. This is what happens when we get our hearts right, which is when our hearts are programmed according to the Word of God.

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Remember that the heart is synonymous with the subconscious. In Ung‟s example, the heart is like the bow and the wooden stick attached to the rock. It serves the purpose of launching faith with accuracy and power. Moreover, although a sharp stone makes the best arrow head, a dull arrow launched from a bow is always more effective than throwing rocks. If our hearts are right, our faith is released more effectively regardless of whether we have great faith or small faith. The heart (or subconscious) is where spiritual and carnal knowledge come together. Heart level beliefs create the life that we experience. This is why the Bible says that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). The more ability we have to believe God for things on a subconscious level, the more substance (or faith) we will be able to attach to our words. Unfortunately, many people don‟t make the necessary lifestyle choices to change their subconscious thinking. Therefore, they go their whole lives living like Dung. What they don‟t understand is that all of the perverse media, pornography, foul language, addictions, ungodly relationships, and sin in their lives trump the ability for the power of God to rule in their hearts.

Are you living like Dung? There is a third character we haven‟t addressed yet. His name is Bond, James Bond. James doesn‟t use rocks, he uses guns. Moreover, he never misses. He goes into the camp of the enemy and leaves it a wasteland. Not only that, he walks away knowing that he makes it look good. After all, he pulls off all of his jobs in a three piece suit. In this example, the guns represent a heart that has been finely tuned by the presence of Christ in an individual. God‟s belief system has overhauled their subconscious. When this happens the heart becomes maximally effective in releasing faith. The bullets represent the lethal force of great faith tearing through the camp of the enemy as a result. This is what happens when a person has both a right heart before God and great faith. When we produce words that carry the faith projected by a finely tuned heart, our words reconstruct reality. Jesus illustrated this when he spoke to the storm and it stopped (Mark 4:35-39). What are you illustrating with your faith?

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“ he presence of the Lord is in this place and it‟s time for a breakthrough. It‟s time for you to be delivered! It‟s time to be set free. Do you want your healing? Then come down to this altar and get what you need from the Lord”. I know these are familiar statements that come across the pulpit in a typical service. There is nothing wrong with these statements and they are very powerful when spoken in faith. However here is something else to consider, after we get the healing, miracle, breakthrough, rhema word, etc. Then what? Do we realize that our relationship with the Lord should consist of more than just temporary sporadic spiritual explosions that gives a great feeling and then often fades away? Do we realize that our Lord is not a genie or a magician where we can make a wish or perform all sorts of rituals in order to obtain an answer from him?

The Children of Israel saw God perform some of greatest miracles ever recorded in the bible: the plagues of Egypt, the Red Sea opening, the destruction of Pharaoh‟s army, water from the rock, manna from heaven, victory over their enemies and the list goes on and on( Exodus 7-17, Joshua 10, Judges 4, 1 Samuel 7). If anyone obtained miracles and abundant blessings, they most certainly did. But as soon as that miracle and breakthrough was achieved they went back to grumbling, sinning, doubting and complaining (Deuteronomy 9, 2 Chronicles 30:8,1Kings 8). Why did this happen on countless occasions where it seemed as if they had completely forgotten what the Lord had done for them? The reason is because their hearts and minds weren‟t committed to being in true relationship with the God, even though they had received the covenant that God had made with their forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God did great and mighty things for them; however they only sought him when times were tough for them.

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ful thing to recognize where the true

We should study the lives of the Israelites and realize that we should never relate to God our heavenly Father with a “what has he done for me lately” mindset. If the Lord chooses not to deliver, set free, or even give the breakthrough can we still lift our hands and give him praise? Would we be able to boldly proclaim that Lord, even though you said no I still love you? When Christ was here on Earth, he performed great miracles where many were healed of all manner of sickness, infirmities, and demonic possessions. The bible says multitudes followed him because they too wanted to be healed, fed, and delivered and this is a wonder-

source comes from, but something happened. As Jesus ministered to this multitude of people, they became breakthrough junkies meaning that they only wanted the Lord for what he could do for them but yet not truly commit their lives to serving him. When Jesus told them to count the cost, to deny themselves, to kill all and follow him, that‟s where the line in the sand was drawn. As long as they were getting what they wanted they weren‟t worried about relationship. Even the disciples who witnessed the miraculous events still had doubts, questions and fears. Jesus had to rebuke them by saying “Oh ye of little faith”. This same multitude eventually turns on him in the most horrid way by chanting “Crucify him! Crucify him and free Barabbas! Yet a few days prior they were chanting Hosanna! Hosanna! Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord. How did it go from blessing and honor to rejecting and casting away? Because like their forefathers in the Old Testament they too never took the time to fully commit their lives to our Lord and Savior. Brothers and sisters when breakthroughs, healings, and miracles come your way don‟t follow the examples of the Israelites and those crowds that followed Christ where they were rejoicing for the great blessings yet the excitement soon faded away. I know there are many of you who are faithful in serving the Lord and God does reward faithfulness but how many times does someone have to

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lay hands on you before you truly receive your healing? If you recall in the bible all those who had received a healing, miracle and deliverance from Christ never asked the Lord to heal them again! The woman with the issue of blood was healed from that day on (Matthew 9:20-22)! The man with the withered hand didn‟t come back and say Lord Can you heal my hand again (Matthew12:9-13)? The woman with the spirit of infirmity for 18 years was loosed that day never to be bound again (Luke13:11-13). True deliverance should not be based on getting in the prayer line every few weeks or waiting for the pastor or prophet to speak healing and a special word over you.

Just as Paul told King Agrippa “I think myself happy”, our lives with the Lord should be based on a continual relationship where we are able to bask in his presence on a daily basis and not just when the pastor/leader says so! If we have to be pumped and primed before breakthrough comes then it‟s based on emotionalism, which brings only a temporary release. This is where being renewed in our minds and spirits on a daily basis comes in. If our hearts and minds stay focused on the Lord all the time, then there would be no need for a quick junkie-like fix from the Lord. Our goal should be “whom the Son sets free is free indeed”!

By: Rachel Moore

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Pumpkin Pie Smoothie © Joanna Faillace 2011 * Most of us would agree that the taste of a freshly baked, warm pumpkin pie is an experience all its own. But have you ever experienced what it’s like to “drink” a slice of freshly baked pie? Well, let me tell you, folks, this rich and creamy smoothie tastes just like a fresh slice of pumpkin pie! You’ll be so convinced; you’ll try this with a fork! (P. S. For professionals only! Don’t try this at home!) By the way, did I tell you that my Super-Naturally Healthy Pumpkin Pie Smoothie also makes a “gourd-eous” presentation!

*Note: Chill the canned pumpkin before preparing this recipe! Ingredients:* Use organic ingredients as often as possible! Recipe for single serving: 8 ounces canned pure pumpkin 4 ounces organic whole milk 4 ounces whole milk French vanilla yogurt 2 tablespoons organic sugar 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or to taste) Optional garnishes: Whipped cream, freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon stick, straw Instructions: Combine all ingredients into blender. Do not add ice! Secure lid tightly and blast the smoothie button until thoroughly blended. Pour into tall glass & add garnishes, if desired. Recipe For 4: *Use Medium sized glasses *Follow order of instructions listed above. www.promotingpurpose-magazine.com

15 ounces canned pure pumpkin 12 ounces organic whole milk 12 ounces whole milk French vanilla yogurt 4 tablespoons organic sugar 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or to your taste) Garnishes: Whipped cream, freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon stick, straw

*Super-Naturally Healthy Tip! ~ Pumpkin seeds contain a compound called L-tryptophan which is a naturally effective weapon against the battle of depression. Pumpkin seeds also help to reduce inflammation and promote overall prostate health. Super-Naturally Healthy good news!

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Before you read any further, I want you to receive the statement, “A New You Starts Today”. Do you believe that? Many may say yes, but they are still holding on to the past….Past hurts, past pains, past disappointments, past rejections, etc. You may be striving for your future, but how can you really focus on your future if you are constantly focusing on the past??? This is what we must ask ourselves. First things first; always remember, YOU cannot change the past, but you can change your future. Secondly, Forgive YOURSELF and/or OTHERS for whatever caused you to have disgruntled feelings. Next, Renew your mind and your way of thinking. Have you ever heard the cliché, “Stinkin Thinkin?” Sometimes, we as Christians have “Stinkin Thinkin,” which means you believe God and have good intentions, but you can still think the wrong way. Last, but not least, LET GO and LET God. By doing this, you no longer deal with the past, but you trust God and allow Him to work out your issues/problems. Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”.

If we profess ourselves as believers, we MUST do this. We MUST trust God and not lean unto our own understanding. Sometimes, we may not understand some things or even what people do, but trust God that He will show you in due time. Trusting God means that you give HIM your problems, issues, concerns with ALL of your heart. Don‟t go to other people first. Go to Him FIRST. He is able and willing to give you all the answers to your questions but you have to first go to Him. Sometimes, when things happen in our life, it is not for us to understand but to seek God and trust Him the more. By doing this, God will give you the strength to get through whatever obstacle you are dealing with. It does not matter whether it is finances, health, friendship, emotions etc. God is able to bring you through it. Do you believe that? If you do, then start BELIEVING in Him and trust Him, and He will make you “New” today. Like 2 Corinthians 5:17 says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new”. All you have to do is receive it and walk in your “Newness” today. ~ Receive it and be blessed! By: Tiffany UpChurch- Rivera

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As a child, Tiffany struggled with not having her earthly father in her life, and self-esteem issues arose. She was haunted by a color-complex of being darkskinned, along with being a plus-size girl, and it seemed as if she never fit in. Being the child of a preacher, the majority of her life was spent in church, but she wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t aware that God was preparing her to stand out as an original and not be a carbon copy. As time passed, and more Word was fed to this child of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soul, she became confidant in who God created her to be. Promoting Purpose Magazine was able to get an interview with Author Tiffany Pratt to learn more about how God has been using her for his kingdom.

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Greetings Author Tiffany! Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to allow PPM to interview you! Who is Author Tiffany Pratt? Greetings Woman of God… Tiffany Pratt is an available vessel for the Lord whose storage is empty. I am a woman of God that thirsts for more of our Savior. In the natural, I‟m a wife, mother, daughter, and friend. God has sanctioned me to hold titles as an author, writer, inspirational speaker, prophetic dancer, singer, and song writer. But in the spiritual realm, I‟m a forerunner for God and the inheritance of His kingdom. I am who I am, who God has called me to be. I am a woman who has answered to God‟s call. What is the name of your recently released book? My recently released project is called: A Word For Your Storm. What was the purpose of writing your book? The purpose of: A Word For Your Storm is to encourage, uplift, empower, and to educate others that the words you speak have power. We are to dictate to our storms and not allow them to dictate to us.

authority…Authority that many aren‟t aware of…Especially broken women, abused women, single mothers and etc…God gave me this baby to birth, and A Word For Your Storm was written on an Co-Mission…God spoke, I wrote. There is purpose behind the pain. Where do you want to see your books within the next 6 months? In the next six months, I decree that it will be a best seller. I decree that souls will be saved and delivered. I decree that the lost shall be found. I speak into existence that A Word For Your Storm shall be in the homes of millions, and that it will help comfort and soothe pain. I decree that ministries will be birthed. I decree that business will flourish.... I decree I will be the head and not the tail…That‟s what I see and speak over A Word For Your Storm in six months. What would you say your purpose on earth is? My purpose is to serve God, in addition to taking a stand for righteous. My reason is to make it to the promise and to reach back to help someone else make it as well... My being is to take my aged mess and use it as a message to witness to God‟s people that we can overcome for He overcame.

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Are you involved in any particular ministry? Yes ma‟am, in addition to writing (poetry), I minister in dance with my dance teams called: Daughters of Royalty and S.I.S.T.E.R.S (Sisters Interceding Steadfastly To Encourage Right now Situations). I also do inspirational speaking to help encourage and uplift God‟s people. God has also found favor in me to entrust me with gifts of songs (singing) and songwriting. These are my active ministries.

How do you give back to the community or promote your purpose in your community? It is definitely more of a blessing to give than to receive. I support local ministries in the community by dancing for local and non-local women‟s groups. I speak to the youth because it‟s important to bend the sap early while it‟s young and tender. We must shape their lives so they will grow up right, stand strong, and flourish. In addition to this, I write for ministerial occasions, and I write for a well know company called IAAWOG better known as: I am a Woman of God. I give back in service for the true reward is in our giving. What’s next for Author Tiffany Pratt? I‟m currently working on a new project God has placed in me which should be completed in May of 2012. So be on the lookout; You don‟t want to miss it. I‟m sure it will be a blessing to your soul. Please tell us where we can purchase a copy of your book as well as how to get in contact with you for signings or speaking engagements? There are several ways one can purchase A Word For Your Storm. One way is to visit: www.lulu.com or you may visit my website at www.awordforyourstorm.com. You can also visit my Facebook fan page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Word-ForYour-Storm/100646343316828. All of my contact information is listed on my pages.

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Writing for Melissa was always a hidden love. One would say that as her relationship with her Savior matured, her desire to write was blossomed. Stories that seemed to be buried in her heart to give God glory and set people free continue to be unearthed. She is determined to tell the world how wonderfully awesome Jesus Christ is and can be in our lives if we just allow Him to be. She is honored to be used by God to spread His message with the stories she creates with the leading of the Holy Spirit, knowing that she will be provided with the words that lift up the Savior, Jesus Christ and as a result, draw all unto Him.

elissa Ann Ricks is a Christian Fiction author originally from Elizabeth, New Jersey presently residing in Bear, Delaware with her awesome husband and two handsome sons. She is a graduate of Rider University and a former national accounts insurance professional. Melissa is forever grateful to her parents, Earnest and Anne Smith for their prayers and close reign over her young life. Their seemingly ever-present influence and strong desire for her to know God, attend church and participate in every possible youth auxiliary kept her from elements that could have swallowed her whole.

Melissa is also what one may consider a motivational/inspirational speaker but she prefers the term, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Godspirationalâ&#x20AC;? as one may only be truly inspired, empowered and changed when hearing the uncompromised word of God! Melissa or M. Ann is the author of Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance and The Son. Her latest novel, THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME has been released.

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Who is Author M. Ann Ricks? I am a woman, redeemed and set free by the life changing blood of Jesus Christ. I am a wife and mother as well as a Godspirational speaker living in Bear, Delaware. I am simply endeavoring to live for Christ on PURPOSE as I provide Christian literature that will not only entertain but change lives and glorify God as I share stories of faith, revelation and His unending and unconditional love. What is the name of your recently released book? My third and recently released novel is THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME. The novel chronicles a woman‟s desire for redemption. It is a novel seasoned with the sensuality of love, the need for familial truth, supernatural deliverance and God‟s promise of hope. While writing your book were there any obstacles or delays? Yes, there were definitely delays, rewrites and challenges. There were many times that I allowed myself to be discouraged but I am so thankful for that! God is faithful even when we sometime forget what He has promised. And “All of the promises of God are YES and AMEN! What was the purpose of writing your book? Because of a checkered past, a destructive familial history or bad choices, many have decided to live a life of regret and fear; resolving that their fate is irreversible. Regardless of who you are, whatever you‟ve done or whatever your family has done to

you, the blood of Jesus can make you a new creature because of its power. Many are living defeated lives, unaware that freedom and life in abundance is available. This novel communicates and confirms that no longer does one need to label themselves as “unlovable”, “unworthy”, a “recovering” alcoholic, drug addict or even an inevitable beneficiary of the many generational tendencies and sicknesses that may be passed on from one generation to another. Christ has absolved all who believe in Him because His blood has erased every sinful stain. What would you say your purpose on earth is? I‟m fully persuaded that my purpose is to write life changing stories to affect lives in a realistic way. I write for the masses but Jesus continues to be my audience; my audience of One. I certainly believe that if He is satisfied with my writing and stories created to give Him glory as I continue to seek the Kingdom, everything else; readership and additional opportunities will follow as Jesus Christ is the balm the entire world needs to know about HIs healing and restoration.

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Are you involved in any particular ministry? I‟m involved in the music ministry at my church, Abundant Life Christian Center in Newark, Delaware where Ministers Jack and Teresa Miller are my pastors. How do you give back to the community or promote your purpose in your community? I have been given the awesome opportunity to share my literary knowledge via a writing workshop for aspiring Christian authors. Conversations… Writing to Reconcile. “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation” 2 Corinthians 5:18. Using our literary gifts, it is our mandate to reconcile others to Christ. By doing this and providing information to those who are interested in writing, I‟m able give back and share what God has given me and the recipients of the information are able and equipped to walk in their literary purpose. What’s next for Author Melissa Ann Ricks? I„m starting work on my 4th book, Power In the Praise, as I begin the first leg of THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME book tour.

Please tell us where we can purchase a copy of your book as well as how to get in contact with you for signings or speaking engagements? My novels may be purchased via my website; www.mannricks.net. Feel free to contact my publisher/publicist, Ms. Shani Fenderson @ May House Press and Publications, maylodi@yahoo.com, (903) 617-7308 for bookings and events. THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME may also be purchased at any literary establishment, i.e. Barnes and Noble, Books-a-Million, etc. as well as various online stores like Amazon.com and the like. My email is godsauthor@mannricks.net. Interested parties may contact me directly should they desire to contact me for literary dialogues, speaking engagements or simply to dialogue about my novels.

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Excerpt: THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME by M. Ann Ricks Eyes of confusion searched the room as I exited the bed and walked to the adjacent bathroom. “Was that a memory or was it a dream?” I whispered, staring at myself in the bathroom mirror. “Who was that older woman?” I didn‟t know what to think. Do I have any family other than that demon of a mother? The thought of my having someone else in this world with my DNA was impossible to believe. I didn‟t know where my father was or even if he was still alive but to know that I may have someone else… Negativity entered my psyche and thoughts that she or they could be just like mother, caused me to shiver. “They can‟t be,” I said to my reflection in the mirror. In the recesses of my mind, I heard a voice that haunted me. I recognized it. It was Mother. “You ain‟t worth nothing. Look what you did to Mason,” the voice said. “You had your chance to have a good life. Mason was the beginning of the family and the love you said you needed, wanted and always cried about and you blew it.” Before I knew it, I was screaming. The acoustics of the bathroom resulted in the exaggeration and expansion of the volume of my screams. I was on the floor of the bathroom, bawling and yelling into the pristinely clean yellow and white tiles as if they could shut out the accusations I heard in my head.

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“Shut up!” I screamed. “I didn‟t want to…,” I explained to my invisible accuser. “God help me!” The outcry seemed to ride the sound waves out of the room. As I inhaled, I felt someone embrace me gently and tentatively. “Baby...,” is what I heard as soft arms enfolded me. “It‟s okay. God is always willing to help,” Ms. Sadie affirmed confidently, squeezing me into her. Ms. Sadie… always here when I need her, I thought thankfully, trying to compose myself. “Come on dear, let‟s get you to your room,” Ms. Sadie advised as she helped me to my feet. I placed my head on her shoulder as we walked slowly into my room. As I entered the room, Sammy was watching me and I immediately felt ashamed. Surprisingly, there wasn‟t any condemnation in his eyes. I couldn‟t explain it but it was as if he just loved me the same way Ms. Sadie did. I felt new tears in production and relented. “I‟m so sorry, Sammy…,” I said, not able to continue. “You owe me no apology, Honey. My wife heard the cries and asked me to come over and check on Aunt Sadie,” he smiled faintly. You okay now?” I nodded. I couldn‟t speak. I didn‟t know Sammy was even married.“Baby, you need to stop fighting and let God fight your battles,” Ms. Sadie said. “You are fighting something only Jesus can help you win.” “Amen,” Sammy said. “Ms. Sadie, I don‟t know…,” I began.

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reasure in Earthen Vessel Life and Purpose The Essence of Respect: A Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x;s Perspective is a book about the struggles and issues that people have to deal with in the workplace and society. Contend with being victims of discrimination, mental abuse, privacy infringement and various types of harassment in the workplace and community. This book describes author Rachel Ann Stallworth personal experience of being a target of discrimination and harassment for almost 20 years. There are details of the latest targeted attacks that have lasted for more than three years. It discuss the effects during my battle to overcome Traumatic Stress, loss of friends, anger and other medical issues after being devastated with gossip and libel regarding comments of a sexual nature, mental and physical abuse by supervisors when I was employed by government agencies. As I tell my story you will empathize through "Perspective Taking," the ability to feel the emotions and feeling of someone else. It will unlock life and purpose in the heart of everyone who reads it. The book can be purchase at Amazon.com Contact Information Rachel Ann Stallworth 2260 Ferdon Blvd Box 24 Crestview, Fl 32536 850 603-9655 The book can be purchase at Amazon.com

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HIS UNCHANGING HANDS God's unchanging hands are more than enough to sustain you. No matter what you're facing. No matter how dark the clouds may seem. Just hold onto his unchanging hands! In his hands there is so much peace. So much security. And so much strength! When life seems to be a blur Rest assured that God is in control. He doesn't operate with time constraints So he is always right on time! Don't be afraid to weep. He'll wipe your tears. When your broken and bruised He'll mold you. All you have to do is BELIEVE and hold onto his unchanging hands.

Devin D. Coleman

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No stranger to the Quartet world of Gospel Music, GTP has been a quiet storm in this industry over 25 years of experience letting the Ministry speak for itself. God, hard work, dedication, and endurance give us the strength to keep going. We commit to our artists, business experiences, publication, tracking(Radio) promotions, booking engagements, bios, concerts, e-blast, advertisements, visibility, support and loyal to the ministry. In our upcoming segments GTP will introduce you to the best in the business, spotlights, Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x;s, Pastors, DJâ&#x20AC;&#x;s, Program Director, Promoters, updates, Radio Stations, GTP upcoming concerts, our artists and more. http://www.gtproductionsonline.comgtproductions1@yahoo.com

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