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Promoting What God Has Already Placed In Us…Purpose! FOUNDER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Sherrell Straker-Valdezloqui ADVISOR Rachel Moore SENIOR EDITOR Damon Moore EDITING COMPANY Tiff’s Editing Café
CONTRIBUTORS
Spiritual Lifestyle Daniel Duval, Relationship Ask Dr. Inecir Matthis, Health & Wellness Cledra McCullers Relationship Lee Coleman, Fashion Oneika Bristol, Contributing Editor Damon Moore, Poetry Devin Coleman Empowerment Rachel Moore GUEST WRITERS Robert Ingram, Denise Ingram, Gloria Jeffers, Joyce Gilchrist, Dr. Shannon Tucker Harrington
Promoting Purpose Magazine, PO Box 5085 Fort Lee, VA 2380 Telephone: 804-481-77113 CEO Sherrell Straker- Valdezloqui
.com/promotingpurposemagazine @ppurposemag
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November/December 2012
FEATURES 10 COVER STORY: CHENETA JONES By: Sherrell Valdezloqui
Known as the Gospel Power House Cheneta Jones takes a few minutes out to share with us her goals and purpose. 13 DEBORAH HIGHTOWER Representing a unique, multi-faceted combination of success. Deborah believes the components to fulfillment and happiness can be found by expanding our horizons.
Salvation is the perfect gift!
CHEF EDWARD GIBSON Chef Buzz Chef Edward shares some delicious recipes along with the importance of eating healthy. HOW TO STOP NIGHTMARES By: Daniel Duval
Say Goodbye to Nightmares and Hello to Happy Sleeping…. AUTHORITY ON THE JOB By: Daniel Duval
Tender Bake Turkey Recipe
The Ideal Work Environment ASK DR. INECIR MATTHIS Relationship
My Husband is Incarcerated and Save….. IN EVERY ISSUE LETTER FROM THE EDITOR PRAYER CONTRIBUTORS CREDITS
Photo provided by: Wanda Adams
Overcoming Holiday Stress
(Marketing Ministry). Cover designed by: Sherrell Valdezloqui
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A Purposeful Holiday Season 12 What will You Give this Thanksgiving……. Some people give much but get back even more. Others don't give what they should and end up poor. Overcoming Holiday Stress Living a stress free holiday season! Delicious Holiday Recipes Enjoy delicious holiday recipes this year. Living on Purpose
2013 Promoting Purpose Award PPM will be recognizing Men and Women of God working in the Kingdom this upcoming year. The Purpose Salute Promoting Purpose Salutes Bishop Charles E. & Pastor Amelia Wiley for walking in their purpose training and empowering others to do great works for the Lord. They have overcome many obstacles, still moving forward impacting lives all around the world. Job 13:15- Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him: but I maintain mine own ways before him..
Going for the Goal Lee Coleman discusses how we can do our part as individuals to create better relationships Train A Child Up In the Way That They Should Go….. Dr. Shannon Tucker Harrington, PhD shares her life story as a child and how important it is to train a child in the way that they should go… Begin Again Life Skills, Ministry BALS ---Mission is to impart, place emphasis, or enhance the ability of individual’s lives by tackling the tough life skills. Life can be challenging sometimes but it does not mean—that things have to end. Allow Fall This year like every year offers the best of times and the worst of times for each and every one of us. That’s the thing about life. Unlike the calendar sometimes you just never know when your season is going to change. Purpose in the Pain Angel M. Barrino, the author of His Purpose My Praise says that God’s purpose in pain is not to kill us but to rebuild us……
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PROMOTING PURPOSE WRITERS SHARE THEIR PURPOSE & IDEAL HOLIDAY SETTING! Dr. Inecir Matthis Pastor, Author, Motivational Speaker I feel that my purpose in life is to minister to those that other people overlook or count as a loss! To blaze trails in ministry that others feel are impossible! My ideal Thanksgiving or Christmas is to have all of my family gathered together in one place for prayer, eating dinner, watching movies, sharing laughter and fond memories.
Sherrell Straker-Valdezloqui CEO of Promoting Purpose, Author, Motivational Speaker & TV Host My Purpose in life is to minister to those who are currently enslaved spiritually. (Spiritual Harriet Tubman) My ideal Thanksgiving or Christmas is to celebrate another year with family and friends while eating lots of delicious food.
Daniel Duval Author, Bride Movement Ministry It is my vision to promote unity in the body of Christ worldwide and assist in the creation and development of sheep nations. My ideal Thanksgiving is a laid back day that culminates in a large meal shared by close family and friends. I will have time to spend thanking God for all of my many blessings and end the day engaged in board games like Monopoly and Risk.
Rachel Moore (Not Photographed) Advisor, Teacher, Author My purpose is to love God, love my family and to be an example to others. My assignment is to speak the truth in love although at times, I know this isn't easy I still am commissioned by God to speak his Words. My Ideal Thanksgiving is spending time with family and friends, eating and having a wonderful time catching up.
Cledra McCuller PlanBe Coach, Author
Lee Coleman (Not Photographed)
My life's purpose is to help women drop ALL un-necessary weight (physical, emotional, and spiritual) in order to BE able to run the race they were created to run. It is my passion to set women free who struggle to release both visible and invisible weight. My ideal holiday now is one where I get to create great memories. To me the greatest gift is to BE fully present with the people I love the most.
My purpose is to inspire others to seek more authentic relationships with God and healthier relationships with themselves and others. I try to encourage everyone that I influence to live by my motto, “Be the blessing in your relationships!” My ideal Thanksgiving or Christmas is an atmosphere of thanksgiving and service. Since I’m so blessed, it doesn’t seem right to just focus on me.
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Dear Readers, It’s the holiday season where families all over will be sitting at the dinner table enjoying their Thanksgiving meals or soon be a blessing to one another by giving gifts and acts of kindness due to Christmas. In the spiritual realm there are those who have been praying to God for Breakthroughs and Miracles praying that they will soon receive it. They are waiting for the Pastor, Prophets or other vessels from God to say that magic word……Your Breakthroughs and Blessings are on the way! It is true Breakthroughs; Promises/Blessings are on the way. But what one does not realize is that everything God has said or promise is already here. In order for us to receive it we must stay the course, stay the course meaning be obedient to God, pray and get closer to Him and allow Him to direct our path so that we can walk towards the blessing or walk towards receiving our breakthroughs. One of the scriptures I love reading for this is the whole Chapter of Psalms 119 it tells you and instruct you
on what is needed in order to receive what is rightfully yours, it tells you who are the ones that are blessed and how they are blessed. For some of you it may be a few months before you receive your breakthrough and if so there is always a lesson God has behind it if you are on the right course. For others there are times when we put our own selves in a situation and think that tomorrow God is just going to deliver us. He can if he wants to but if He helps you have you learned anything from your situation? Have you learned to trust God and lean not on your own understanding? Have you realized that perhaps you went through not for yourself but for a testimony to someone else. Everything in life can be perceived in many ways. I like to look at it as training no matter what the situation may be. If you’re constantly being attacked by demonic forces then there may be a door somewhere in your life that is open that shouldn’t be, or it could just simply be an attack because the enemy knows you’re just around the corner from receiving a mind blowing revelation or stepping into your purpose?
on the way, but you must stay the course to receive it. I encourage you to always seek God and be patient in all that you do. Read the following scriptures and if God gives you more to read then do so. Psalms 119: 1-176, Philippians 1:16 and Joshua 11:16-20 I pray that you have a safe and joyous Holiday and remember if you stay the course you will receive what it is God has for you at the right time!
Peace & Blessings Sherrell Valdezloqui
Sherrell Valdezloqui Editor-In-Chief
But whatever the reason may be, trust God and know that He is a God of love, patience, and on time. Yes your blessing and the things that you have prayed for, if it is the will of God, is on the
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Cover Feature Cheneta Jones
ut of "The Gateway to the West" and "Home of the Blues" hails a powerful voice housed in a small frame. Cheneta Jones, the St. Louis native who began singing at the age of two, has proven that faith can trump and hurdle and prayer can open every door. As a breakout solo artist, and the lead background singer for Tye Tribbett she stays quite busy. Her current single, Be Like You, from her upcoming 2012 studio project, Transformed, is an urban, mid-tempo, laid-back song that explains how Jones wants to exemplify Christ and be like Him in every way. Ushered into the gospel music industry with, My Everything, an infectious ballad produced and written by gospel hit-maker mainstay, Percy Bady, on Real Talent Media Group, displays Jones’ astounding work ethic and determination earning an abundance of positive feedback and progressive radio airplay. Jones began honing her skills early on in church and eventually started singing at school and other events and occasions on a regular basis. At 16, she became acquainted with a production team that would jumpstart her recording career as a solo artist, and a member in various R&B groups, where she would mature and developed her own sound. In January 2008 she obeyed the call of ministry; God placed upon her life, and removed herself from the R&B group. She then turned back to her roots and proclaimed that she would sing to the Glory of God and minister through Inspirational/Christian music. Since then, doors have continued to open. Inspired by personal life experiences and encounters with God, Jones exudes confidence. Her name is synonymous with real music and prolific lyrics, and as the winner of KATZ Hallelujah 1600's Praise Alive Talent Search she has opened for gospel giants as Fred Hammond, John P. Kee, Donnie McClurkin, Deitrick Haddon, Lisa McClendon, Marvin Sapp and many more. As a singer she lures you in with her unique, crisp, powerful voice, and keeps you interested with incredible stage presence, voice control and the element of surprise.
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As a writer she reaches the hearts of her listeners with her relatable experiences expressed through her poetic stories. I want listeners to be able to hear a song and reflect on how it applies to their life, she says. In addition, for those who are not believers, it is my intention to draw them to Christ through practical means and not religiosity. This and more will be displayed on her upcoming project where her desire is to leave people feeling encouraged and motivated to grow in Christ. My upcoming project will entail numerous personal experiences, and my growth as a maturing Christian, she says. I’ve been through a lot in the last two years and have overcome many obstacles so this new album is very relatable and expresses my love for Jesus as literally being my everything. A singer/songwriter who thrives off of opportunities to give her testimony and minister to the world, she’s on a mission to spread the truth. Cheneta Jones—Psalmist, worshiper and vessel of God bringing a fresh, exceptional style to the world.
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Interview with Cheneta Jones By: Sherrell Valdezloqui
Hello Cheneta! Thank you for allowing Promoting Purpose to interview you tell us….. Who is Cheneta Jones I am just a vessel for God’s exclusive use. He has put a gift inside of me and I’m just returning it back unto Him, and in the process drawing souls to His Kingdom. I’m an ordinary person God chose to do extraordinary things with. What makes you stand out from other Gospel Singers? I believe that I have a unique sound. Other than that I just believe that God has given me grace according to the measure of the gift He’s given me. God is the creator of all things. He is more than capable of not creating duplicates
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LIFESTYLE-BUSINESS
Deborah is frequently invited to host, speak and sing at a variety of venues, including conferences, retreats, and seminars. She has hosted international festivals and conferences, scholarship and beauty pageants, and seminars. Her speaking topics include a variety of personal and professional subjects, such as The F’s of Life (faith, family, friends and finances), Expansion (expand your personal and professional life to find greater fulfillment and happiness), and Diversity (find greater success by diversifying, enriching and broadening your personal and professional perspective). Deborah celebrated four Top 10 hits on inspirational radio and three award nominations from her previous album, Her Name is Deborah. The LOVE. album released in October [side note– with emphasis on LOVE (period). The be all, end all is LOVE period…no less. The greatest is love.] Christmas album released in November – the working title is Beautiful Christmas . Music has allowed her the opportunity to perform in a variety of venues – from chapels to mega-churches to conferences and corporate events to overflowing concert halls to radio and television to Carnegie Hall to the White House. A proponent of living life to its fullest, Deborah encourages others to be motivated, uplifted and renewed by broadening their horizons, engaging their passions and seeking genuine expansion in all areas of their lives.
How are you walking in your purpose?
Deborah Hightower- A fun loving person who enjoys seeing others expand….. Deborah Hightower represents a unique, multi-faceted combination of success. She believes the components to fulfillment and happiness can be found by expanding our horizons. She has done just that with successful careers in the financial arena, music, speaking, and writing. She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, Forbes, Chicago Tribune, International Business Report, The Business Times, Investor Place, CNBC, NBC, Thought leader in the area of Expansion, Deborah Hightower, has recently been acknowledged by America’s Premier Experts® as one of the leading experts in her field. CBS, FOX, ABC, CNBC, Yahoo Finance!.
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While I do have a lot going on…I think it is my purpose to encourage others to live their own plan of expansion. For me – it’s educating others about financial issues, encouraging others to pursue their dream/passion…for me through music, writing, educating, speaking… I want to grab everything that God has for me. I want the same for others. Realizing, however, that while God has it for me, I have to do my part in maximizing opportunities and walking through the doors He has opened for me. Too often, we wait on things to ‘happen’ when we must make it ‘happen’. I believe that we all have a purpose for being here. To quote Thomas Merton, “the biggest human temptation is to settle for too little”.
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LIFESTYLE
You are waking up in a cold sweat. Your heart is frantically beating, trying to escape from its place in your chest. You have stress, anxiety and fear all at the same time. Surrounded by darkness, you are trying to collect your thoughts. Your palms are sweating, and you're breathing is heavy. What is going on? As the moments pass, you begin to settle down. There is no threat. You are safely in your bed. Then you realize that it was all a dream. Or should I say a nightmare? Nightmares are the dreams that no one wants to have. They are scary, disturbing, and unpleasant. The evil that accompanies them can be felt, sometimes even after we have awakened from them. True nightmares are often inspired from the kingdom of darkness. Admittedly some are not. How can we tell the difference? When the nightmares include a component of evil that can be "felt," it is a good indicator that the dream has been inspired by the kingdom of darkness. If the source is normal stress or anxiety, the dreams are typically not much more than unpleasant. Many people don't consider that because we are members of the kingdom of light, we actually have the ability to go to sleep in a spiritual fortress. Instead of taking advantage of these potential sleeping conditions, many Christians opt to simply sleep with no defenses.
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LIFESTYLE
Daniel Duval shares the importance of having Authority on the Job by understanding who we are in Christ‌.. here it is. It's the same sarcastic smile you are greeted with every morning. Yuck! The receptionist, who puts on an air of friendliness for everyone else, makes no effort to hide her distaste about you. It's no mystery as to why she does this. She gave you the same air of friendliness until she found about you and the C-word. That's right, the day she found out you That's right, the day she found out you were a Christian everything changed. Unfortunately it wasn't just her. Others began to act funny around you. Then you started getting accused of being ignorant and judgmental. You weren't consciously judging anyone, but you were labeled because you are Christian. Suddenly, you became a magnet for negativity. Why would people intentionally ostracize you? Why would people go out of their way to tell dirty jokes right in front of you as often as possible? Could it be because you are Christian? Of course. It can be challenging to balance our spiritual persuasions while working in a secular field. There is no doubt that the easiest thing to do with our religious convictions is to keep them to ourselves. The reason is because when we begin to become vocal with our coworkers about what we believe, people can begin to respond negatively. So what can we do about this? I have found myself in several awkward situations at the various jobs I have held in the past. I don't expect this to change for jobs that I will hold in the future. Since I tend to be rather straight forward about my relationship with Jesus, this is something I have simply come to accept. However, I have learned that there is an edge that I will always have over those that seek to create problems for me. I have an awesome prayer life! "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." (Ephesians 6:12)
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While I do not discount practical tips and tricks for making peace and keeping friends, there is a very real spiritual element to every situation. On this note we must always remember that our battle is not against people, but against evil spirits in the kingdom of darkness. As a matter of fact, what I have learned is that there are key evil spirits that oversee the activity occurring in just about every business. These spirits are usually things like alcoholism, drug abuse, gossip, revenge, hatred, slander, antichrist, jezebel and so forth. It's usually very easy to tell what kind of spirits are in operation by simply having a keen eye and picking up on the obvious. If you know what everyone did last weekend (without any specific individual telling you their own story) it is pretty easy to conclude that a spirit of gossip is at work. If there is a strong rebuttal every time the name of Jesus is brought up, there is probably a spirit of antichrist. "And every spirit that confessed not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world." (1 John 4:3) In order to circumvent the strategies of the enemy, we must remind ourselves about who we are in Christ. We must then exert the authority that Jesus has given us. In Him we have been given power over the power of the enemy. This is relevant for every setting and situation.
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It doesn't matter if we are not in the church building. God intends for us to partner with Him to the end that the works of the devil are destroyed. As it is written: " Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10:19) Whenever I am working a secular job I make sure to bind all of the evil spirits and activities I have identified (or that the Lord has pointed out to me). This is not something I do only once on my first day of work. This is something that I do daily during my morning prayers. I have found that when I bind the works of darkness and loose the things of God (according to Matthew 18:18), my work environment is radically changed in my favor. It actually positions me for favor with my superiors. Moreover, it breaks the spiritual resistance to the testimony of Jesus Christ. This means that it is much easier to engage coworkers, pray with coworkers, and even lead coworkers to Christ. Now that is what I call the ideal work environment!
Recipe for two 9 inch pie: 3 Sweet Potatoes 2 1/2 Cups of White Sugar ¾ Cup Evaporated Milk ½ Cup Butter Melted 4 eggs lightly beaten 3 tablespoon of all purpose flour 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg 2- 9 inch unbaked pie crust Directions 1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add sweet potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 30 minutes. Drain, cool, peel and mash. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, vanilla and nutmeg. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk and blend into the sweet potato mixture. 3. Pour into pie shells and bake in preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until done
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LIFESTYLE
Bre’ly can be seen in TriStar feature film remake of the 1976 hit movie Sparkle. Brely is cast in the role of “Tune Ann” alongside of an all-star cast: Grammy® nominated recording artist Jordin Sparks (“American Idol” winner, Season 6), the late Multi-Grammy® Award winner Whitney Houston (The Bodyguard, Waiting to Exhale), Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher, Captain America: The First Avenger), Mike Epps (Jumping the Broom, Friday After Next), Carmen Ejogo (I, Alex Cross, Pride and Glory), Tika Sumpter (“The Game”, “Gossip Girl”), Omari Hardwick (The ATeam, For Colored Girls), Grammy® Award winner Cee-Lo Green (“The Voice”), and Tamela Mann (“Meet the Browns”, Diary of Mad Black Woman, Kingdom Come). Her role in Sparkle came after a daunting year of personal obstacles. “I slowly stopped reading my word and slipped back into my old routines and the offers came to a halt,” tells Brely. “I knew it was because my focus had shifted to the natural in front of me instead of on the supernatural and God’s Word. On Sept 25th of last year, I rededicated myself, connected with prayer partners, began fasting and got serious! About a month later….Sparkle!”
Actress in Sparkle Vocalist, Comedienne and Voice Over Talent…….
H
er undeniable delightful, spirited smile and charm captivates those in her
presence. She describes herself as a Fun, Fearless and Faithful woman of God. Actress Brely Evans is a young Hollywood talent rising rapidly in notoriety with her feet firmly planted in a faith ever increasing. Brely is emerging as a multi-talented actress, singer/songwriter and passionate motivational speaker whose career is being fueled by her ability to connect with audiences on-stage, on-screen and on a personal level. With increasing opportunities in film and TV, Brely boldly continues to stand firm in Godly character against the opportunities that might challenge and taint her integrity and faith. “I’ve been blessed with a team that covers me, therefore, a lot of the challenges I would potentially face are checked at the door,” Brely shares. “When I am asked to play a role that does not ‘kingdom build’, I step back and talk to GOD about it. There have been times when the role was way on the other side, but either the character got delivered or the entire story line had a message to get people to see themselves and change. That’s when the greater good is being served and my faith and integrity are left intact!” NOV/DEC 2012
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LIFESTYLE
Since he came on the national scene in 1990, there have been many titles associated with Ben Tankard, from the Quincy Jones of Gospel to the father of Gospel Jazz. Ben explains, "Technically, the music is the same. A Christian "C" note sounds the same as a non-Christian note, but as a minister, God releases His Spirit and power through me and the music becomes a vehicle-of-salvation to carry God's love, healing and deliverance." As a modern day "David" and often referred to as "The Minstrel," Ben Tankard has a strong anointing to play under the unction of the Holy Spirit and has witnessed tumors melting, people being raised out of wheel chairs, deaf ears opened, and relationships mended in his concert-crusades. Tankard states, "signs and wonders must follow when a minstrel plays. We should expect debt cancellations and all other yokes to be destroyed and burdens lifted when our music is played." He has won 9 Stellar Awards, 34 Stellar, 8 Dove, 3 Grammy nominations and is the best selling Gospel Jazz instrumentalist in the world. Also a "hit-maker" producer, Ben discovered Yolanda Adams and has produced several top records for her, as well as collaborated with Take-6, Fred Hammond, John P. Kee, and others. Tankard's 1997 hit song "Git Yo Praize On," with his ensemble, Tribe Of Benjamin, has become the most used phrase among praise teams. All this from a man who has never had one lesson!
The key is to concentrate on taking care of God's business and He will in return put people and materials in your hand to accomplish his plans, purpose and destiny for your life.
Promoting Purpose: Congratulation on all of your success so far and those to come, what is it that keep you so humble still glorifying God even at the level you are in society today career wise and etc? Ben: Thank you! My mother raised me in the Lord and we had a very poor living environment coming up. I learned to walk in great gratitude and appreciate every little thing. She taught me that the more blessed you are the sweeter you should be to people. Also, my wife Jewel and I keep each other accountable. No one knows
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you like your spouse. So we observe each other getting a little " off " in any area, we give each other the latitude to comment and check each other, without getting offended. Promoting Purpose: When others look at you they think you have it so easy with the amount of success you have. Were there ever a time in your life when you felt like giving up? Ben: No! There were times that I was challenged but I never considered giving up though. People say, "Ben you were an overnight success ". And I say “yes you are right, but that night lasted 20 years " lol. Promoting Purpose: What scripture have you hold on to dearly that keeps you going through the good and bad times in life? Ben: I actually have 3!!! Proverbs 23:7. As a man thinketh , in his heart , so is he. -------- I realize that if it “is to be" then it is " up to me "... Therefore, I have to get the answers from my kingdom spirit. If I think the right thoughts, and then move accordingly, then I should be able to “make my way prosperous" according to Joshua 1:8 and have "good success” according to Ps.1:1-3. Promoting Purpose: What is your purpose? Ben: In a nutshell my purpose is to worship God. My assignment is to use my talents: To take people from the middle to the top. Promoting Purpose: What is it in your heart that you truly want the people of God and others to grasp on to in order to have a successful life both spiritually and physically? Ben: On the spiritual side I want people to know that God has already done ALL he is going to do. He gave us his Will in his Word so all we have I do is act on it.
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The Church Gathering Place Stop waiting on God to perform a miracle when he has already given you instructions how to achieve you request through his word by faith. We can't be sooooo busy (or lazy) we can't pray, mediate, confess his word and act on it. Faith developing takes time. On the physical side it is the same thing. Stop waiting on the president or government make your life better. YOU are the prophet of your life and the captain of your ship. Stop waiting on someone else to give you permission to success. Always remember this... There is someone out there less smarter than you that is richer then you. There goes your excuse. Lol. Promoting Purpose: How important is it for you to take time out to spend time with God as well as your family? Ben: It is the center of my existence. I plant my time with God from 1am to 4am in the morning. This I don't have to compete with family demands for God time or meditation time. You are living beneath your privilege given to you by God to create your own world through your imagination if you don't spend at least 30 minutes a day alone in a quiet place just dreaming ( without your cell phone in your hand ! ). Promoting Purpose: What is your ideal Thanksgiving or Christmas? Ben: The whole family at home in our mansion with me with an apron on cooking my famous 24hr Turkey, with " It's A Wonderful Life " on repeat ! Promoting Purpose: Are you currently working on any projects? Ben: working on a couple surprise artist for my record label " Ben-Jamin' Universal Music". Also we signed major TV deal for our own Reality Tv Show. I also have a clothing line, and several endorsement deals that will launch within the next year as well as a new book. Promoting Purpose: Would you like to leave a word of encouragement with our audience? Ben: My motto: If it's not on your mind, it's not in your future.
By: Denise Ingram
It’s midnight on a wintry night, the snow is falling, and you can hear the sound of the snow coming down. Everything is covered in white, like a blanket; it’s beautiful. I see across the ground crystals sprinkling in the night air. The trees are covered in white. It’s a quiet sound almost, like someone out there wants to say something to you. The night air is so cold; it goes down deep to the bone. It’s hard to stay warm. All the ladies in the church are busy cooking. All the ladies in the church are busy cooking. There are Thanksgiving Day pies, cakes, and cookies. Oh my, those homemade pumpkin pies with a little extra cinnamon in them, well you should try one! There is nothing better in this world than adding a little more cinnamon in those pies. Gail was always busy baking pies, cakes, and you name it, to take to Rebecca Hebner’s Old Country Store for them to sell. This was the first time Rev. Tom Williams and his wife, Gail, decided to have Thanksgiving dinner at the church for everyone to come and have a good time. Gail’s best friend, Rebecca, lives nearby. Her husband, David, works very hard. NOV/DEC 2012
He is a shoe smith and owns an old country store where the two of them work together. They know just about everyone in that small town of Winchester. Up in those mountains, it wasn’t a thing for them to have a foot of snow overnight. That night it snowed hard, and it came down fast, freezing the ground. Rev. Tom Williams decided to go to the church that evening after midnight. He knew Gail would be up because she was busy cooking. He walked in the church, went down the front, and said a prayer for everyone to be able to attend Thanksgiving Day for dinner. He noticed there were wet foot prints on the floor. He walked around the whole church but didn’t see anyone. He said to himself, “Who on earth could this be?” Rev. Tom went back to the house. Gail looked up at him and said, “Tom, you look like you have seen a ghost. Are you okay, honey?” He said, “Yes,” with a smile. You see Rev. Tom didn’t want Gail to be afraid of anything, she would worry too much. Rev. Tom prayed and pleaded the blood of Jesus over them and the people in Winchester that night. He thought, “How on earth could anyone stay out there in the cold snowy night?” Gail put the turkey on a cast iron rack to cook for the rest of the night. Rev. Tom told Gail to go to bed and get some rest; he would watch everything for a while. Gail went to bed, read her Bible and fell asleep in bed. She prayed for the Lord to cover them with His blood. She knew by the look in Tom’s eyes that something was wrong. The next morning, Gail went to the kitchen and Rev. Tom had fallen to sleep in the rocking chair with a blanket over him.
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Gail got breakfast started, and woke up Rev. Tom to give him a cup of hot coffee. The turkey still had about four more hours before it would be done. Rev. Tom Williams told Gail he was going to the church to build a fire in the fire place so the church would be nice and warm. As he walked to the church, Rev. Tom thanked the Lord that the snow was not too deep so everyone could come and gather at the church for dinner. He said a prayer again thanking God for keeping them safe. As Rev. Tom was entering the church, he saw that there were wet foot prints again, but this time there were more. As he walked closer to the dining area, he noticed someone had started a fire already. He wondered if it could have been David; he was so good about helping everyone if he could. You see, the church was in great need of a Holy Ghost revival. People needed the Lord. Some needed to renew their faith again. It seemed to Rev. Tom Williams that people where dried up in their spirit. He had been praying for a good revival for almost a year. The church was in need of change. People really needed to get hold of God. They were not committed to the Lord or on fire for the Lord. You see, Rev. Tom didn’t even tell his wife about praying for revival to break out in Winchester. He was a man of great faith and old fashioned in what he believed in. One thing he knew, God was getting ready for something great! Rebecca is a prayer warrior and strong in her faith. She prayed with many a person in Winchester. At times she would give coffee or flour to people who couldn’t pay for them, but David never knew. Sometimes, you know, men have a problem giving. It never stopped Rebecca. Winchester Church had a lot of good people. There were those who couldn’t pay by cash, but gave in other ways. They gave in eggs, or chickens, or apples… you name it! Everyone was always trying their best to help each other. Rebecca had long, thick, black, beautiful hair. She had the sweetest spirit about her and the sweetest smile about her; she was a true giver. Her husband David, at times, could get very stubborn and upset at people who wouldn’t pay their bills on time. On the other hand, Rebecca didn’t worry about it; she knew that by giving the Lord would take care of them. All the ladies had been cooking a Thanksgiving Day meal to take to church on Thanksgiving Day. Everyone was excited about going to church, eating with friends and having good old fellowship with one another. The snow didn’t seem to stop anyone; the kids could hardly wait to get to church. It was very cold and the wind was blowing some; the snow was still on the tree limbs, it was almost frozen a little. Everyone was on the way to the church. David and Rebecca decided they would try to get to the church first to light all the oil lamps on the tables and to see what needed to be done. Rebecca was walking up the steps and saw foot prints. She said, “Boy there is a lot of little foot prints!” As she and David entered the church they could smell smoke coming from the fireplace. They had their hands full of food. When they walked in, there was a family setting all around the fireplace, a sleep. David said under his breath, “free loaders.” Rebecca said, “David you should be ashamed of yourself.” John Stewart stood up and spoke up, “Are we in the way?
My family and I didn’t mean to impose. We were trying to get warm. You see, our wagon is stuck in the snow not far from here.” Then, Rev. Tom Williams and Gail came in with their arms full. The preacher looked over to David and thanked him for making a nice fire for everyone. David said, “I can’t take the credit for this.” Then, Rev Tom Williams turned around after putting the food on the table. He went to say something to this nice family. John Stewart said, “We are leaving now. We didn’t mean to cause any problems. I made the fire so our family could get warm. I am so sorry.” Gail spoke up with Rebecca at the same time, “You all are not going anywhere! You will have Thanksgiving dinner with us.” “No,” John said in a lowered voice. His oldest son Mark spoke up “Father, we are all hungry and need something hot to drink. Please father!” All ten of the children spoke up, “Please!” His wife Dorothy was holding their youngest daughter, Abigail Grace, who was three months old. She cried all the time. Dorothy spoke up, “John Stewart, listen to me. The children and I are hungry and cold. If you want to go back to the wagon you go right ahead, but we are staying!” Rev. Tom came over and said, “John it’s okay, son.” Gail, told everyone to please find a seat at the tables and let’s get ready to eat. Gail said, “We want to welcome our new visitors, the Stewart family.” Gail asked her husband, Rev. Tom, to come and pray over the food. “Lord, I ask you right now in the name of Jesus, to bless the hands that cooked this good meal. Lord, bless each family that is here today on this special Thanksgiving Day, a day of thanking you for all we have, and how you supply all our needs Lord. You, Lord have been good to the people here in Winchester.” The whole time Rev. Tom was praying, little Abigail Grace was crying. Dorothy was trying her best to stop her, but she had Colic. “Dear Lord, we thank you for each family today. We have so much to be thankful for, in Christ’s name. Amen.” The kids and all the families were eating and having a good old time. The Stewart family kids were eating like there is no tomorrow, but it didn’t matter to anyone. They were thankful that the family didn’t freeze last night. Dorothy and John’s two twins, Lydia and Ruth, were going to town on Rebecca’s homemade sugar cookies. Dorothy said, “I think you two have had enough.” They replied, “But mom, please just one more, only one.” Abigail Grace continued to cry. Rev. Tom Williams walked up to Dorothy and picked up little Abby. He laid hands on her, and anointed the top of her head. She immediately stopped crying, and from that day she never had Colic again. To this day, we should always give thanks to the Lord, not just on Thanksgiving but every day of the year. Most of all, God, we thank you for your son Jesus Christ, so we can have eternal life one day with Him. Be thankful for what you have, and help those who have less. Ask someone to your home for dinner on Thanksgiving Day. Watch and see how God will bless you. Trust me!
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I am concerned and disagree with him simply because he has never attended our services so he has no idea what it is like or what to expect when he attends. Also, our children who are ages 5 and 8 have adjusted to the church environment and are thriving in Sunday school, children's church and group activities. I feel as if I would lose a solid foundation and my children would soon become disinterested in church because of the sudden and drastic change. I also fear that my husband may not be strong in his Christian walk and may end up not attending church services at all. I'm not sure what to do and hope that you can give me some much needed insight. Dr. Matthis: It is unfortunate that you are faced with this dilemma long before your husband is due to be released. It sounds as if your religious backgrounds and beliefs were not discussed at the round table before saying "I Do". It is one of the most important subjects less likely to be discussed when talking marriage and often causes couples to be unequally yoked from the very beginning. Religious beliefs help to structure marriage and the upbringing of children. This also brings about a spiritual power struggle between husband and wife with the expectation that the wife will leave her church and follow her husband. If she refuses to do so she is considered to be less than obedient and respectful. Your answer is simple and direct: Prayer.....pray for wisdom and strategy to deal with this matter. Ask God to grant you the direction or course that you should take when approaching this delicate situation. It requires that both of you be spiritually mature enough to discuss the matter before making hasty and regretful decisions. You should both be able to come to a place of compromising while seeking guidance from God. Perhaps he could attend your church services at least a few Sundays in the month while you both prayerfully consider God's will for you. Don't forget to consider your children in this matter and seek churches or ministries that have services and activities for children, teen and young adults.
Dr. Inecir Matthis helps a young woman find peace in a decision between staying at her current church or finding one that her now save incarcerated husband is wanting to go to for the family once released.
Remember that God will give you direction, guidance and clarity in this matter if seek and trust Him because the king's heart is like a stream of water directed by the LORD; he guides it wherever he pleases. (Proverbs 21:1 New Living Translation)
Do you have a question for Dr. Matthis? Or would like to Dr. Matthis, I have been married to my husband for over respond to a question in this publication? 7 years and we have two children together. After several years of being locked up, he became a Christian and attends the Sunday Send all emails to drimatthis@gmail.com services there. 3 years ago I began attending the church where my family attends and became a member shortly thereafter. My husband will be released from prison early 2013 and has informed me that he has no plans of attending my church services and stated that we will need to find a church home more suitable NOV/DEC 2012 PROMOTINGPURPOSE-MAGAZINE.COM 23 for us as a family.
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