Welcome to the final edition of Sarah. The next time you see this magazine it will be 2025! It’s been a challenging year, but with the challenges came growth and strength.
God has been good. I am thankful that He allowed me another year. Some of us lost loved ones in 2024, and the holiday season can be very depressing. My prayer is that God gives you the comfort that only He can give during this time.
Focus:
As we transition into the New Year, some of us have made resolutions on what we are going to change in 2025. My question is…did you follow through with last year's resolution??
If I were to decree or declare anything for 2025, it would be to stay on the right track and continue to follow God’s plan for my life. We are so focused on the president, and the changes that are about to happen. We become overwhelmed, and stressed, making choices that only end in destruction. The one thing we need to remember is that Jesus is the same yesterday and forever! No matter what things may look like, we just need to stop and remember that God promised that He’d never leave nor forsake us. As long as we stay focused on Him and His word, we have the assurance that we are going to be just fine.
Children/Teens
One of my greatest concerns is our children. As a children’s church teacher, I am amazed at some of the things the children are learning at school. They come in saying and asking questions that leave me speechless.
Parents/grandparents/Christians we have got to pray for our youth! The school system has taken God out and is feeding our children with a lot of perversion that is contrary to God’s word. It is important for us as the older saints to teach our children right. They may get mad, but stand strong on what the word says. They will thank you later. I’d like to take a moment and say thank you to Naomi Martin and all the youth who faithfully share their walk with God in this magazine. If your child or someone else's child is going through a difficult time, connect them with the youth who share their stories of staying focused on God.
Did You See It?
Did you see the previous issue of Sarah? We covered mental health; it was filled with so many great articles on health and wellness. If you are going through a tough time, especially during the holiday season, take time to read the previous edition of Sarah magazine. Now let’s talk about the power couple on the cover, TEAM TATE MINISTRIES. Their story/ministries will inspire and
encourage you to move forward in your ministry. It also speaks to the singles who are seeking to be married. If you stay on God’s righteous path, you will run right into the one God has for you.
In closing: I would first of all like to say that this month’s cover story is a must-read! Pastor Amara shares her story of how she went from SHAME TO FAME. She has only scratched the service of telling her story. Stay tuned people, her new book will be coming out soon and she will tell the full story of her tragedies and triumphs.
Thank you all for taking the time to read Sarah magazine. It’s hard to believe that we are going into another year. Take time to look back at all the previous issues. Read the stories of each person that was featured, I pray that something in each of those stories will remind you that it’s never too late! Don’t give up on your dreams and goals. Stay encouraged!
From my heart, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you all so much for supporting this magazine.
If Sarah has been a blessing to you, reach out and let our writers know.
Enjoy…
God bless,
Minister Sheree Carradine Creator/Chief Editor
If you have questions/comments for our contributors, please feel free to contact them personally or send them to mysarahmagzine@gmail.com or shereecarradine@yahoo.com
We would love your feedback and will post your comments/answers in the next issue of Sarah.
Note: We are a Christian based magazine but not limited to only Christians. BUT… we will not publish anything that is contrary to our beliefs, such as profanity or promotion of your sexual preferences. Eph. 3:20
Every year, year after year, Christmas was the same. There were decorations covering the house from top to bottom, inside and out. Always there were too many gifts under the tree. The advent wreath was lit religiously during the month. A children’s Christmas pageant was written, directed and near flawlessly performed (LOL) for proud parents and grands. We rang the Salvation Army bell accompanied by our own brass band in the freezing temps. The Christmas cantata was presented for the congregation after months of
practice. Christmas Eve was busy with food prep, church services, a drive around town to see the snowcovered lights and gift opening late into the night. The family all gathered at our place for Christmas day lunch. The morning started early to finish the food and set the table perfectly. Exhausted after clean up, I always collapsed on the living room floor and fell asleep.
As I drifted off, I should have been satisfied with another successful downhome post card perfect holiday. But, in reality, I was
bothered by yet another celebration of Christ’s birth surrounded with commercialism and family tradition. I like to mix thing up and I found the “same old, same old” monotonous. But if I didn’t deliver the expected rituals, I knew I’d hear about it later. So, I continued to keep the seasonal routines alive and dream of someday making adjustments. I know these holiday activities were the wish of many children who never had a home full of Christmas joy and love. That only added to my guilt!
As time passed, kids grew and adults aged, things were forced to change. Celebrations moved to the nursing home. One by one people were no longer with us. Most who always expected Christmas to be the same were gone, leaving only one. She was the one I tried hardest to please with tradition…my mom. Right up to her last Christmas at age 102, the rituals remained as near perfect as they could be, considering the circumstances. The first Christmas without her was so different. Since we were transitioning to full-time RV life, we were in an apartment and most of the Christmas decorations and trappings were gone. Suddenly, I realized the expectations were gone, too. We could make the
season what we wanted! It was a bit of a shock to the system. This new Christmas day found us dishing up food at the community Christmas meal. By dinner time we were serving more kid-friendly food at the local theatre where our son worked. The employees labored long and hard on the busiest day of the year. Most didn’t get to eat the big festive meal at home, so we brought it in for them to graze on during breaks. These efforts turned out to be exactly what I needed to feel better about Christmas. The answer to eradicating the nagging uneasiness of Christmases past, was taking shape. The holidays had to include service!
Now eight Christmases later, serving has become our holiday centerpiece. We arrive in Tucson just
before Thanksgiving. For the next 7 weeks we volunteer at a homeless shelter and recovery mission with
one goal…make the holidays memorable for the 300 guests. Those weeks involve food prep, gift wrapping, chapel attendance, joygiving with every smile and hug, and allowing the guests to be involved in the preparations. Many things I take for granted because they were always part of my celebration, are new and dreamy for our guests.
My greatest Christmas joy has always been decorating. I even managed a gift and décor store that specialized in extreme pretties. It was heaven. Moving into an RV, I chose to give up all the holiday trimmings. The extent of our decorating is a little nativity set. During Advent Mary and Joseph travel all over the RV on their journey to Bethlehem. One day Keith hides them and I have to find them. The next the roles reverse. Baby Jesus arrives on Christmas Eve. Somehow the staff at the shelter found out about my
unused love for decorating. Now my major holiday volunteer task has become managing the decorating of the shelter's 7 trees, some 18’ tall, as well as all the other areas that need a
touch of joy. I love it because it’s in my wheelhouse. God blessed me with these talents. The problem I’ve had with it though, is answering people who ask me what I do at the shelter. They expect a grand answer like teach life skills, give messages at chapel or mentor guests. The words I have for them are often shocking. I say, “I decorate for
the holidays.” The looks I get are telling. They seem to think that’s so inconsequential. I bought into their opinion, until last December.
It was lobby decorating day…seven trees, all with different themes, multiple large wreaths and a slew of volunteers. Our guests were also invited to join in. As I watched the folks in recovery programs participate, I became aware of a new truth. Decorating was healing the hurt in many hearts. Under two different trees, we placed trains on tracks. They were donations and didn’t work, but they looked the part of tradition. The two train boxes instantly snatched up by two burly recovering addicts. I watched as these men got down on their hands and knees and crawled under the trees. Meticulously they each connected the track in a circle
and placed the cars. The joy on their faces was a sight I’ll never forget. Their satisfaction at a job finished well was only topped by their pride and enjoyment every time they passed “their tree” during the month. These men never had the perfect Christmas celebration as little boys. For them this was an opportunity to experience a bit of what they viewed as normal. It was healing for their souls.
In January I read a testimony from a lady guest. In it she mentioned the homey feeling our center provides. She expounded on how joy filled the facility at Christmas, right down to making the place look inviting and warm with the trees and decorations. A home-like decorating job in a large shelter helped heal a bit of her brokenness. It doesn’t heal it all, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Street-wise men crawling around under trees, abused and broken
women putting ornaments on the trees and homeless kids staring at the sparkling wonders. These are a few of my favorite things about Christmas now. All I learned about throwing a traditional postcard perfect Christmas celebration has finally paid off! It comes in giving that sense of normalcy to people who have never experienced it. It’s a gift of joy, love, and security. Things I grew up with and now need to give away.
So what do I do at the shelter and recovery center? I decorate and I share holiday love wrapped in Jesus and pretty ornaments. I help heal souls with a twist of garland and topped with a bow.
• 1 cup Harry & David peppermint bark (chopped)
• 212 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 12 teaspoon salt
• 34 cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 12 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 12 teaspoon peppermint extract
• For The Ganache:
• 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• peppermint bark pieces (chopped)
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350° F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, mix together flour, cocoa, salt, and baking soda then set aside.
• With a mixer, cream butter and sugars together until smooth. Add in eggs, one at a time. Next, add in the vanilla and peppermint extract and mix until combined.
• Add flour mixture to butter/sugar mixture and beat until just combined. Stir in chopped peppermint bark.
• Scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons and place on a prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
• Bake cookies for 10 minutes and set aside on a cooling rack.
Make Ganache:
• Add the chocolate to a large bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it bubbles around the edges. Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the chocolate. Let the mixture stand for 30 to 45 seconds, then stir until the chocolate melts and a smooth ganache comes together, about 1 to 2 minutes.
• Lay out a large sheet of parchment paper. Dip the cookies, halfway, into the warm ganache. Place the dipped cookies on paper. Sprinkle with peppermint bark pieces.
AUTHOR
Harry and David
Bio: I am a man seeking to store up treasures in heaven and be a servant of God.
Dr. Dave A. Cornelius, aka “Dr. Dave,” is an executive and organization coach, learning facilitator, and lean/agile certification trainer. He partners with leaders and teams in for-profit, start-up, and non-profit organizations to deliver awesomeness that meets their goals. He works with Fortune 50 to Fortune 500 companies, helping them to deliver more than $1 billion in customer value.
He is the author of nine books on Amazon.com that include 1) Trust Fidelity: Removing Engagement Friction, 2) Generative Leadership To Thrive, 3) Beyond the Windowsill, 4) The Innovation Catalyst, Leading with Empathy, 5) Deliver Value: happy contributing people, satisfied customers, and thriving business, 6) Belonging and Healing: Creating Awareness for Yourself and Others, 7) Elastic Minds: What are you thinking?, 8) Prayers to my Abba Father God, and 9) Transforming Your Leadership Character: The Lean Thinking and Agility Way.
Trusting In God’s Goodness
Reflection - Trusting in God’s Goodness
Welcome to the Psalms of our Lives. I will share my story and song of praise about what it means to trust in the Lord.
center of my relationship with my Abba Father, God, is the revelation that God is good and desires to bless me!
Living a life submitted to God takes trust. Trust requires that we surrender control of our heart, mind, body, and spirit to our Abba Father, God. Even in relationships with people, we must surrender some part of our heart, mind, body, and spirit. Trust takes time, meaning we are on a learning journey, either to be disappointed or to increase our confidence and trust.
I became distrustful of the church in my teenage years when I learned about the tragic impact of religion on people throughout history. I began to question where God was in all of this. Many years later, as I began to question my purpose in life, it was revealed that my focus was on what men did and not the goodness of God. At the
Truth in the Word of God: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:56 NLT
It is challenging to be in a state of waiting when you are wrestling with anxiousness to take on the blessings of the Lord. I recently heard Pastor ‘D’ in a message at the Gathering at Tucson say, “Bring my thoughts captive to be obedient to the word of God. Otherwise, I will be its captive.” In reflection of God’s goodness, I remembered a song I wrote years ago. I wrote the song ‘Trust In the Lord’ and published it in my book, Prayers to My Abba Father God. The words follow:
Trust in the Lord For all of your needs When things are good
When they are bad
Let Him lead your plans Carry your load Trust in the Lord And be anointed Trust in the Lord To heal all your hurts Focus your thoughts On His promises Tell Him your problems And be freed from your strain Trust in the Lord And be uplifted
Pray: Abba Father God, Thank you for the privilege of being called friends by Jesus. Help me embrace the trust and intimacy that comes with this friendship. In Jesus name, Amen.
Take A Moment To Reflect:
o What are some examples of your recently demonstrated trust in God’s goodness?
o Can you list one area where you do not trust God?
Until next time, create space to connect with your Abba, Father, God, and:
• Be Aware: Pause to acknowledge God’s presence.
• Be in Gratitude: Notice something for which to be thankful.
• Be Praising: Sing a song of worship. Speak openly with your Abba Father God.
Be Blessed, Beloved
Psalms of Our Lives -Audio Link on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/davecornelius-dr-dave/psalms-of-ourlives-seriesreflection?si=e262e6a3c4ae4491 80a3206011a1c296&utm_source =clipboard&utm_medium=text& utm_campaign=social_sharing
His podcast and blog, “KnolShare with Dr. Dave,” are available on Spotify, Audible, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and KnolShare.org.
1-Gallon Apple Cider
2-teaspoons whole Allspice
2-teaspoons whole cloves
2-3 sticks cinnamon
2/3-cup sugar
Orange slices studded with cloves
Heat cider, spices, and sugar cover simmer 20 minutes.
Strain punch and pour into heat-proof punch bowl.
Float studded orange slices in a bowl. Serves 32 ½ cup servings.
By Susan Warren
What
Is The Difference Between A Spiritual Christmas And A Materialistic Christmas?
For what it’s worth, my family focused on the spiritual Christmas. My mom would always let us know that Jesus Christ was the reason for the season; and we should be appreciative of everything that we have received. As a child, I loved to smell Christmas Cookies in my home, mashed potatoes and gravy, turkey, ham, sweet potato pies, apple pies stuffing just everything in the kitchen. My eyes would light up when seeing the ornaments, on the family tree. My best month as a Child was December.
In the Old days my family would always have family meetings, making sure our attitudes were in check for the upcoming Christmas festivities.
Jesus Christ was never forgotten in our home my dad was always thankful and giving to others throughout the year. Our family would teach us; “Giving to others, is a blessing, that will come back to you”.
Now let me get into the depths of the spirituality of Christmas, as it applies to the birth of Jesus Christ.
What does scripture say about Christmas? These three factors were always taught in our home the birth of Jesus, the death of Jesus, the resurrection of Jesus.
According to Jesus Birth, Luke 2:7 KJV And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Death Romans 6:23
States that Jesus died to take the punishment for sin, allowing humans to be forgiven.
Jesus’ resurrection John 3:16: A well-known verse about salvation through faith, stating that God so loved the world that he gave his son, and that those who believe in him will have eternal life
inspiring others i.e.; Joseph the dreamer, Genesis 45:7-8; Moses are reluctant leader, Exodus 14:13-15; Ruth a loyal woman Ruth 1:16; David defeated Goliath, 2Samuel 22:7; Jeremiah, the prophet, Lamentations 3:22-24; Job a good man, Job 1:21; and Peter, the apostle Peter 4:14; My days and nights are consumed with learning more and more historical events in the Bible. It gives me a good feeling that someday I’ll be with him in heaven.
Jesus has given us unconditional love making it possible to change your lives and make them better while we are still on earth., His love, mercy and grace will bring us closer to the Lord Jesus Christ. focusing on God’s birth, his life on earth he was bruised for our sins. He died was buried and risen. I always get a fuzzy feeling when I’m reading and sharing Jesus stories while he was here on earth and
Now it’s time to step into the materialistic world around Christmas. We know that God took human form in a world of hate jealousy, greed, sin in a materialistic world. Remember God created order not nonsense. We need not to make our materialistic online buys and department store purchases as such a realistic focus that we forget God. Remember when we do make these things so important Baby BAAL’s start to pour out of our hearts, placing God in the Back seat. We belong to Jesus Christ not items that will wear out next year. We belong to God.
As a biblical sidenote: In the Bible, Baal is the name given to several different deities who are designated as
false gods or idols. However, it is most often used to describe the specific Canaanite-Phoenician god of fertility and rain. Additionally, Baal is associated with Beelzebub, demons, and the devil. Dec 7, 2022
https://study.com › academy › lesson
Let’s celebrate Christmas all year around, let’s not place limitations on the season for God does not place limitations on us.
Calvinia Williams, D.D.
Spiritual Advisor
Founder and President of Lupus Of Nevada, tune in to our Podcast Lupus Talks
Website: Lupusofnevada
As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend
So, you’re tired of being single. You’re a Christian and you want to meet other Christian singles who are sincere about their faith, love the Lord, and have a strong relationship with Him. You want to share your faith interests and not be afraid to say that Jesus is your Lord and Savior. A single that wants to keep your temple clean and unblemished.
Are you just tired of being the third wheel? Sometimes, don’t you want to go out with like-minded people and not have to worry about feeling out of place? If you can identify with the above questions…THEN JOIN US FOR OUR FIRST MEET AND GREET! Coming in 2025!
Here are a few questions for you…
What are your struggles as a single Christian woman or man?
What would you like to discuss at our first meet and greet?
Are you looking for a spouse or other Christian friends to hang out with?
Contact us and let us know your struggles and what topics you want to address at our first meet and greet!
Join our mailing so that you will be notified of the date and time.
HURRY SPACE IS LIMITED!
The ages excepted are from 19 on up Divorced, never married, separated, widowed, single parent…all are welcome. We will meet bi-weekly, the day and time will be determined by everyone’s availability.
If you would like more details on Iron Sharpens Iron Christian Singles contact us at: mysarahmagazine@gmail.com or isics.3cs@gmail.com
Founders: Sheree Carradine
Gerald Smith Jr.
Donzella Berry
Keeping Christian singles clean in a not so clean world.
We are here to impact one another. We don’t want to be dull and useless, we are here to change, shape and encourage each other.
P
A
opeInGod Uwaoma
My name is Mrs. Pastor Amara HopeinGod Uwaoma, and I am from Anambra State in Eastern Nigeria. By the grace of God, I am the founder and president of Gracious Hope in God Ministries International.
I was born on October 16, 1982, in Enugu, Nigeria, to the late Sir and Lady Innocent Ndaji from Ekiti Osili village in Enugwu-ukwu, located in the Njikoka Local GovernmentArea ofAnambra State. I was born into a polygamous family; my late father had two wives, and my mother was the first. I am the fifth of eleven children from my father.Among my mother's children, there are five of us, and I am the youngest.
Unfortunately, we lost my eldest sister, Mrs Ekpereamaka Ozigbo, shortly after childbirth due to mysterious circumstances. The rest of my siblings are married and have children.
My father was a businessman who owned a company called Innoma Tobacco &Allied Industry Limited. It was a family-run enterprise, and he also managed several other
ventures alongside his wives.As both a statesman and an entrepreneur, he was involved in estate management and owned numerous properties. He served God wholeheartedly (Matthew 6:33), and in return, God blessed him as He did with Abraham. He dedicated himself to helping the needy, orphans, widows, and the less privileged. Through hard work, he lifted many out of poverty, provided hope to the hopeless, and advocated for the voiceless. My mother joined him in this mission, and together they fulfilled their God-given assignments. My father passed away on December 22, 2011, and my mother followed on February 26, 2019.
I grew up in Enugu, in Eastern Nigeria, surrounded by my parents and siblings. I attended nursery school, primary school, secondary school, and university, all in Nigeria, specifically at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu Campus (UNEC). My parents were devoted Christians. My late father was a disciplined and strict man who established a strong Christian foundation in our home, ensuring that we all followed the path of Christ. I was raised in a family deeply rooted in faith. My father guided me to Christ and made sure all his children embraced this path
before he passed away. He set a standard in our family where prayer was prioritized, placing Jesus above everything else.
In our household, prayer was essential. Each morning, my father would wake us up at 5AM to pray together, seeking God's grace for the day ahead. We gathered every morning to ask for His blessings and guidance in our daily activities. My father was deeply anchored in his faith and held a strong belief in the power of prayer. He was even honored with the title "Ekepereamaka," which means "praying is good."As the youngest child in my family, I was gifted with the ability of prophecy at a young age, as stated in Jeremiah 1:5. Truly, God speaks to me, and whatever the Lord reveals to me comes to pass.
As a child, I was very shy and struggled to talk to people. Standing in front of others was particularly challenging for me. Even when I wanted to express myself, I found it difficult to do so. Many people were concerned about whether I would ever be able to get married, given my trouble facing or even speaking to men. I remember making a secret birthday wish to God on my 25th birthday, asking Him to bless me with a husband.
In December 2006, one of the mothers at a church conference I attended approached me. Out of her motherly love, she asked if she could share my contact information because she had a son in Germany whom she wanted to introduce me to. We exchanged contact information. When she introduced me to her son, we began talking, and eventually, we met face-to-face. It was love at first sight. I promised him that I would pray to God for
guidance and would respond once I received it.After much prayer and seeking the Lord, I felt that God was telling me I would be the one to save his generation and liberate many people.
Eventually, we met again, and he proposed to me. I accepted his proposal. Lo and behold the prayer I prayed on my 25th birthday was answered. The mother at the church
conference who introduced us was now going to be my mother-in-law. Shortly after, I introduced him to my family. We then performed the traditional rites as required by Igbo customs. He came with his family, and we exchanged marital vows in September 2007. Our traditional marriage took place on September 25 at my father's compound in Enugu-Ugwu,Anambra State. I was a virgin when he married me. After our wedding, he prepared my documents and returned to pick me up to join him in Germany.As we began our married life, I quickly realized it was filled with ups and downs.
I was overjoyed to discover I was pregnant for the first time. However, little did I know that the enemy had sown discord in my marriage.After two months, I sadly lost my baby, which was a devastating experience. My world shattered as I had to
undergo a procedure to evacuate the pregnancy.
I healed and became pregnant again, but during the sixth month, I lost that pregnancy as well. I felt frustrated and disheartened. I came to realize that married life isn’t always a bed of roses; it can be filled with deep pain and challenges. The book of Exodus 23:25-26 states, "There shall be nothing cast among their young, nor be barren in the land: the number of the days I will fulfill." Holding onto this promise from God, I cried out to Him in my distress, fervently praying for His mercy. By His grace, God heard my cries and blessed me, allowing me to conceive. My baby arrived in January 2009, and our joy was immense our happiness knew no bounds. However, just three months after our baby's arrival, we experienced a terrible car accident while traveling to Holland for a holiday. We are not sure what happened, but we all fell asleep during the journey. My husband lost control of the car, which rolled over and hit a rock. The vehicle was beyond repair after several flips. Despite the car being a total loss, God performed wonders; there were no fatalities with my baby and my husband, they emerged unharmed, but I suffered serious injuries. I was
rushed to a nearby hospital in Sittard, Holland, where doctors confirmed that I had a broken vertebra in my spine. This injury came with the grim prognosis that I would never be able to walk again. After a lengthy hospital stay and six months spent wearing a neck brace, I experienced the healing power of God. Miraculously, I began to walk again, and after a successful surgery, my broken spine was repaired. Truly, God manifested His miracles in my life.
In 2010, I welcomed my second bundle of joy. I had a baby boy, and our celebration was filled with joy. After having two boys, I prayed for a baby girl, and God answered my prayers. I became pregnant again, giving birth to my baby girl on December 15, 2012. It was a day full of joy, confirming that God indeed answers prayers. However, during childbirth in 2012, I tragically passed away but was miraculously brought back to life for God's heavenly assignments. After the children were born the marriage became challenging, and I
faced significant ups and downs filled with pain. However, I managed to overcome these trials through prayer and the reassurance found in Romans 8:28.
In 2014, God spoke to me about my calling and gave me a mandate to bring hope to the hopeless. Little did I know that before fulfilling this assignment, I would experience great sorrow.
In 2015, I received the heartbreaking news that my husband had died. He passed away inexplicably in a car accident on September 14, 2015, while heading to work in Holland. This marked the beginning of my widowhood and loneliness That year was marked by deep sorrow, as I became a widow at the young age of 32. My life spiraled into confusion, filled with grief, regret, and hardship. I fell into depression, yet God had a better plan for me even amidst my suffering. He is an awesome and ever-present help in every situation.
The German
police incorrectly conveyed the news of his death to me, which resulted in significant damage. I went into shock. I was on the verge of dying about his death, and I went into depression. I lost the taste of
life. I decided to end it all to die. My life, by all means, is why I was in that state.
My husband’s younger brother, whom my husband brought to Germany from grazing pastures, took all my husband's properties his company, and the money that my husband had in his pockets when he died. He claimed everything from the police without giving me any money to take care of my children and other bills. He also collected my private car, and my husband's car, sold them and took the money. He took everything, there was nothing left for my children and I to survive on. The children were ages 2, 4, and 6 years old at that time.
My husband's brother and his family told me not to attend the wake for my husband.According to their customs, a deceased woman is not allowed to attend her husband's wake. I found myself without a job, feeling lost and lacking any source of income. I was confused and unsure of how to care for the children left in my care.
People rejected me and my kids; they mocked us and humiliated me. I was accused of things that I had no knowledge of, and they labeled me with names that the Lord did not give me. I was devastated and didn't know where to turn. Many people
offered me strong advice, but I chose to ignore it.
God provided a sister and her spouse; they were supportive and gave me hope.At the time, their family was the only one who offered me hope and acceptance. They began to reassure me that everything would be well. I chose to end my life because I was so miserable. I made many suicide attempts, but none of them were successful. I attempted to hurt myself in a lot of ways, but it didn't work for me; I drank drugs to die, but they didn't kill me; I used medications that shouldn't be used to kill people, but they didn't work on me.
The mercy of God rejected my several attempts to end mylife. God's powerful right hand was on me. I decided to return to Nigeria and establish a life there with my kids. Given how awful things were for me there, I was even more irritated. One night, while I was in a terrible situation in Nigeria, the angel of God sent me a message telling me to go work for God and bring my Bible
with me, and that God would take care of the storms for me.
I felt frustrated in Nigeria and was urged to return to Germany.
God brought a sister who decided to take me and my children into her home until we could find our own place. We had nowhere to stay because we returned to Nigeria before we were allowed to come back.
I lost the house we lived in before my husband’s unfortunate death, along with all my belongings. His family took away all of my husband’s properties from me. I lost my home in Germany, along with all the properties my husband acquired.
An angel conveyed a message to me, saying that the Lord instructed me not to reclaim those properties. Instead, He will create something new for me, as promised in Isaiah 43:18– 19. Afterward, I returned to Nigeria, but the same thing happened there; all my properties were taken as well. My landlord kept calling, urging me to come and take care of things, while he handled everything else.
I have a sister in Germany, she and her husband let us stay with them for two months, they helped me tremendously during my difficult time. God used them to give me hope, and I am grateful for their
support. After staying with my sister and her family for two months, God, my ever-present help, came through for me and my children. We were able to move into a new apartment, which was a house of our own.
When we arrived, it was empty. We came back to Germany with nothing no belongings, no clothes, and no shoes. We were starting fresh. Gradually, God helped me acquire our belongings little by little. I began doing caregiving jobs and earned money from various part-time positions. I was taking care of my three children singlehandedly. The suffering was overwhelming, and I never thought I would come out of it. Initially, I felt frustrated and downcast, but through it all, I witnessed God's grace.
I was so confused devastated sad that I threw my Bible away and that I would not serve the most-high God again, I entered into a fight with him and the more I was very angry with God, and situation got worse I was calling for death but did it answer me, I wanted to end it all in any means I couldn't recognize the voice of my kids again the bond wasn't there again.
One faithful day a friend came and called me that she wanted to help me, she wanted us to pray. I refused at first but she pleaded with me and I accepted we prayed after that night in 2017 I had an encounter with the Lord that changed my life and changed my life entirely. The Lord visited me and told me that everything that happened to me was part of His plan and my destiny. He explained that the trials and tribulations I went through were tests, and I had passed them. Just like Job, the devil sought permission from Him to test me because I was serving Him. God has everything at His disposal, and He permitted the devil to intervene but instructed him not to touch my soul or my life.
In that moment, the Lord gave me hope. He assured me that He would remove all the reproaches in my life. When I woke up, I felt like a completely different person. The Lord touched my life, wiped away all my tears, and consoled me. He filled me with hope. My God called me to carry my Bible and spread the good news of Christ. I answered that call and began preaching and delivering to people in His holy name. I attended Bible school and ministry school in Belgium, where I engaged in evangelical learning. After completing my exams, I received an endorsement letter as a
pastor on September 4th, 2017. I founded my ministry, Gracious Hope in God Evangelical International, which I affectionately refer to as "Revolution." Over the past seven years, this ministry has touched many lives across the continent. In 2020, I established a healing and counseling ministry to help those in need.
GRACIOUS HOPEINGOD LIVING MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
September 1, 2017, through a divine revelation. The ministry's name, GRACIOUS HOPEINGOD LIVING MINISTRIES
INTERNATIONAL was revealed through a prophecy, making it a prophetic name. The founder of this great commission, Prophetess Amara HopeinGod Uwaoma, had a transformative encounter with God, who spoke to her and assigned her a divine mandate to go into the world and offer hope to the hopeless. This calling was entrusted to Pastor Mrs. Amara HopeinGod Uwaoma, a highly anointed woman.
The ministry was born out of her trials, illustrating how pain can give rise to purpose. Gracious Hope in God Ministry has successfully operated for seven years, with members and ministers across
continents, including Germany, the USA, Canada, the UK,Australia,
Switzerland, Nigeria, and Ghana. Its headquarters is located in Leichlingen, Germany. This ministry focuses on prophetic healing and deliverance (PHD), proclaiming good news to the poor, touching lives, and bringing freedom to the captives.Above all, it aims to give hope to the hopeless and brokenhearted, with love as its core value. We welcome individuals of every race, tribe, color, gender, and status with open arms. Our core value is LOVE, which is at the Center of everything we do. Our teachings emphasize LOVE, PURITY, and LIVINGALIFE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS.
In 2020, the ministry established the 'PROPHETESSAMARA FOUNDATION' in Nigeria, with a divine mandate to bring hope to the less privileged, including widows, motherless babies, fatherless children, orphans, and those in distress.
On August 3rd , 2024, the Ministry opened another branch in Tucson Arizona USA, to proclaim the Good News of Christ in that city. THE MAIN MOTTO OF THE MINISTRY: IS TO GIVE HOPE TO THE HOPELESS.
Finally, the ministry is an optimistic ministry blessed with ladies and gentlemen who are kingdomminded; teaches and inspires people to be kingdom-minded and through the power of Christ in them gives hope to the hopeless. I answered the call of God in my life, and everything changed for me. I felt this calling 10 years after getting married. I married my late husband on September 1, 2007, and on September 1, 2017, I responded to
God's call, which led to the emergence of my ministry, GHIGLMI, through revelation. Hallelujah!
Know that God's plan for your life cannot be thwarted; He knows exactly how to bring it to fruition.
The Bible says in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."As you seek God first, He will take care of your problems and lead you to the place He destined for you when you were formed in your mother's womb. Your destiny will be manifested. I answered God's calling, and this became a reality in my life. God brought me into His inner room, revealing things that might seem like proverbs to those in the world, and explained them to me step by step. The Lord rebranded, rebuilt, remolded, and recreated me. He transformed my countenance, my appearance, and my speech. While I was in His inner room, He worked on me and changed me completely. He gave me a divine mandate to publicly evangelize, share His goodness with the world, and provide hope to the hopeless. In life, everyone faces challenges that align with their destiny. It's important to remember that these challenges will not be beyond your
capabilities; God would not place you in a situation you cannot handle. When trials arise, He provides the grace needed to overcome them. Your destiny will shape the battles you encounter, and the greatness within you will determine the difficulty of those battles. Each struggle is measured by your potential. Don’t be afraid of the challenges you face; overcoming them will lead to significant growth. Pain often gives birth to purpose. The struggles I experienced in life revealed my hidden potential. Although I faced mockery from friends, family, and in-laws, and was rejected and falsely accused, my story has changed for the better today.
Know this: for gold to be considered true gold, it must go through many processes. To be where God wants you to be, you must undergo tests. To be trusted, you will face trials. Abraham was tested by God, and he demonstrated the strong faith he had.As a result, God blessed him abundantly.
God saw me through all the trials I faced, and I encourage anyone going through difficulties in life not to dwell in self-pity. Reject any pity from others; don't let it define you. I used several techniques during my challenging times that helped me get through. These techniques can also
assist you if you are facing difficulties in any way.
**The Word Of God**
Building yourself with the Word of God is essential. It strengthens and supports you. When you internalize this Word, it removes fear and negative thoughts, while also building your confidence. The Word of God is powerful and holds the solutions to every problem, as mentioned in Hebrews 4:12 and Psalm 119:105. I relied on the Word of God, and it paved the way for me. It became my source of comfort and support. Believe in the word of God, for it is true. Everything God has said about your situation will surely come to pass in your life. His word is infallible, and the Lord will never lie. When you read His word, believe it, meditate on it, personalize it, and live by it. That’s what I did, and it worked for me.
The Lord came through for me and transformed my situation from grass to grace. Hallelujah!
**Prayer: The Master Key**
Prayer is truly the master key. It saved me during my struggles. I committed all my worries and problems to the hands of the Lord,
and He saw me through my challenges. I laid all my burdens before God, as the Bible tells us to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us. I did this, and the Lord carried my concerns. I prayed without ceasing, as instructed in the Bible, and GodAlmighty came through for me. He removed my reproach and pain and filled my life with joy and overflow.
Philippians 4:6-7 states:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." It works like magic. It worked for me. I started praying, and God granted me peace that surpasses human comprehension. You must trust God wholeheartedly and follow Him faithfully. Let His perfect will be done in your life.
Proverbs 3:5-6 states:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." As you do this, He will come through for you in your situation and will guide you on the right path. This is exactly what I did; I allowed God to lead me, and
He brought me to where I am now. God Himself helped me.
Deuteronomy 28:1-3 states:
"If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God."
The blessings mentioned in Deuteronomy 28:3-13 will be your portion. The Lord did this for me; everything I lost; He replenished a hundredfold.
You need to be spiritually alert.Ask God to open your spiritual eyes, ears, nose, and mind so that you can see, sense, and feel what is happening around you. Being spiritually aware will help you observe every step you take and understand the actions of those around you. Take time to discover what makes you happy and make it a priority in your life.Always strive to be positive and joyful. When you are
truly happy, negativity will struggle to find a way into your life. Engage in activities that bring you joy; your happiness is important in this life.
Isaiah 12:3 states, "Therefore, with joy, you shall draw water out of the wells of salvation."
With joy in your heart, your deepest desires can be manifested. This mindset helped me during my challenging times. Surround yourself with people who love and support you those who do not constantly remind you of your pain. Choose to be with individuals who are genuinely interested in your happiness, who believe in you, and who appreciate you for who you are rather than what you possess. Seek out those who have your best interests at heart and who want to see you succeed, rather than those who wish for your downfall. You have to choose your circle wisely. Select your friends, and let them choose you; choose those who uplift you. Disconnect from friends who bring you down, mock you, reject you, or are filled with jealousy towards you. This approach helped me immensely. I distanced myself from all the toxic people in my life and surrounded myself with positive individuals whom the Lord guided into my path. It's essential to maintain a positive mindset and not lose hope. See yourself as God sees
you not through the lens of toxic people. Believe in your life and remind yourself that you will rise again, no matter how many times you stumble.
The Bible states in Proverbs 24:16a, "For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again." You can rise even higher after a fall. Don’t give up on life; get back up from your setbacks and keep pushing forward.
I motivated myself. I forced myself to stand and reassured myself that I would succeed. Just as David encouraged himself in 1 Samuel 30:6, even when he was distressed and faced with adversity, I found strength in the Lord, who lifted my spirits. I gave everything to God and surrendered my whole life to Him, holding nothing back. I allowed my flesh to die and committed myself entirely to Him because I realized that I am nothing without God. He paved the way for me today. I hold onto the affirmation that says, "What God cannot do does not exist," and that phrase truly resonated with me. God indeed died for all of us. The God of the widow came through for me and transformed my entire life.
I went from Shame To Fame, from rags to riches, from sorrow to joy, from demotion to promotion, from
victim to victory, from trial to triumph, from mess to message, and from pain to purpose. My life became a testimony. God provided hope to someone in a hopeless situation so that I could give hope to the hopeless.
Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him."
Anchor your faith in this promise, my beloved. The Lord knows you and understands what He is doing. Trust Him it is a process. He will surely pick up the broken pieces and mend them.
I prophesy that as you hold onto God, no matter how hopeless your situation may seem right now, He will restore your hope. Your life will become a powerful testimony because you are a work in progress in Jesus’name.
PastorAmara is available for speaking engagements worldwide. Invite her to your church or event. She is a powerful Woman Of God!
Her new book will be coming out soon. Connect with her so that you will be one of the first to
be notified when her tell-all book is released.
Connect/partner or invite her to speak at your next event!
graciousfamily2017@gmail.com
Phone number in Germany: ±4917623854446
USA phone number: +1 470-530-7937
You can also reach her on WhatsApp
Donations run this foundation, if you would like to donate to help her foundation, please use the information provided.
USAZELLEACCT. graciousfamily2017@gmail.com
MINISTRY PAYPALACCT: emerieuwaoma@yahoo.com
PastorAmara recently celebrated her birthday. Pictures of this joyous day with friends and family are on the following pages…
From Shame To Fame, from Rags To Riches, from Sorrow To Joy, from Demotion To Promotion, from Victim To Victory, from Trial To Triumph, from Mess To Message, and from Pain To Purpose. My life is a testimony to someone in a hopeless situation. God brought me through it all, and He will do the same for you.
God bless you and thank you for reading my story.
Stay tuned for my new book coming out soon…
No More Procrastination. Let’s Do This!
Even transitioned holidays come around, the first thing I think of is some reason, it seems to be the essential subject leading up to the holidays.
When my mother was alive, I regretted that word - cornbreadbecause I knew, deep down, what it meant. It wasn’t just about the bread itself; it was the start of something bigger: Cornbread Dressing.
Cornbread dressing comes to mind as early as June and lingers all summer long, like an uninvited
. By September, when the talking about the holidays, I know the task ahead of me. Somehow, it feels like a mandate, this responsibility to prepare enough dressing for three
anticipates it all year long, even if they don’t say anything until November.
Then the questions start. When do you plan to start making preparations for the cornbread dressing?
Every year, I try to dodge the question, pretending I lost interest in making it. Maybe, just maybe, one of my siblings will offer to take
it over. But they never do. Instead, they hit me with their sly flattery: You know you make the best cornbread dressing. We love how you make it.
I can’t help but think they just don’t want to deal with the prep work. And how tedious it is - hours of chopping, mixing, seasoning. I always mope around the house for a few days, grumbling about the task ahead. But eventually, I give in.
And so, the ritual begins. The cutting board comes out, everything is laid on the table: the thawed cornbread, the butter, the seasoning, celery, onions, toasted bread, chicken stock, herbs and egg. It’s all there, waiting for me like clockwork.
As I begin to combine all the ingredients, I can feel my mothers’ presence in the kitchen. It’s as though she’s right there with me, smiling and nodding in approval as I mix the cornbread dressing in an oversized metal bowl, using both hands to bring it all together. This is when the excitement truly begins, knowing I am honoring her memory.
Once the mixing is done, I pour the dressing into a large pan, smoothing it out before sliding it
into the oven. Then comes waiting. With each peek into the oven, my excitement builds, because I can’t help but think about the moment my family tastes it. I can almost hear their voices already, full of compliments and joy.
When the timer dings and I pull the pan out of the oven, pride swells in my chest. The golden crust, the savory - aroma it’s a masterpiece. I let it cool but the real anticipation comes when my siblings sit down to eat. I watch as they take their first bite and then it happens: ‘You did it again,” someone exclaims. “This is amazing. Just like Moms” Their words fill the room with warmth and gratitude. If Mother were here, she’d be so proud,” they say, and I know they mean it. They pile on the giblet gravy, which only enhances the flavor, and the compliments come pouring in. This dressing is out of this world.” You keep her memory alive.
Every year, I mumble and grumble about the work it takes, but in moments like this, I remember why I do it. It’s not just about the food-It’s about keeping my mother's spirit alive. With every
bite, she’s there at the table with us filling the room with love.
And of course, no plate of dressing is complete without a dollop of cranberry sauce on the side. As we share stories and laughter, the holidays truly begin.
Happy Holiday and many blessings.
In Memory of Mother Evelyn Marie Martin
By Wonderful S. Davidson
Y. P. W. P.
Hello everyone, it’s Naomi, representing Y.P.W.P (Young Person With Purpose).
I am back again with more questions and answers. My friends and I are going to share our answers to these questions. Would you like to join the conversation? If so, please contact me at my sarahmagazine@gmail.com. We would love to chat with you and maybe put your feedback in the next edition of Sarah. I pray that our conversations and interviews inspire and encourage you.
Our ministry is to help other young people that are trying to stay on God’s righteous path. Also, we are here to reach out to those who would like to know Jesus as their personal savior and show them that you are not too young to live a holy life.
I am looking forward to hearing from you!
LET’S GET STARTED!
Naomi
1. As we enter into the holiday season things start to change like the weather and daily routines, Ecclesiastes chapter 3:1-8 follows along the same theme. How would you describe the spiritual season you're in right now? How can you make the most of it?
My Answer- The spiritual season
I would say I’m in is a season of wilderness, waiting and learning how to take things slow with patience and allowing God to work. Not much is changing in my life and I can’t see progression physically. I feel stuck in the same place, but I have learned it’s about trusting that God is working even if I can’t see it. This season has been hard because it feels like I’m walking blindly to an unknown destination. God has promised to get me there, but not knowing how or when often bothers me. I would compare my season to the Israelites journey to the land God promised them. Due to their sins of idolization and distraction their journey was extended to 40 years in the wilderness when it wasn’t supposed to take that long. I understand the devil wants to distract me and lead me astray from the final destination. It would be a lie for me to say I’m not scared he will succeed. What I have found to help
me in this time of waiting and doubt is being content with where I am now and know that God has me right where he wants me. In 1 Corinthians 7:17 Paul writes, “Each of you should continue to live in whatever situation the Lord has placed you, and remain as you were when God first called you”. When I read this, it made me think “how was I when God first called me?” and it brought me back to the feeling of openness my heart felt when I began to seek him. I remembered how much I wanted to be with him every morning no matter how early I had to get up. I was brought back to the security and protection I felt when in his presence. I depended on God daily like a child does with their parents. Jesus teaches in Matthew 18:1-5, “And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest
in the kingdom of heaven” It made me realize in the driest season of my life (so far) was where I needed God the most. I plan to make the most of this season by allowing myself to relearn how to become a small child again. One that depends on her father, eager to hear what He has to say, and open
to His ways of living. Coming to Him in humility, understanding I can't make it through without Him increases my chances of getting through this season the way God intends.
Emylie’s Answer- Reflecting on Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, which beautifully reminds us that “to everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven,” it’s clear that life is full of ups and downs. The spiritual season you’re in right now might be one of growth, waiting, or even challenge, but each holds opportunities for growth and connection with God. For me, I would describe this spiritual season as one of learning and alignment a time where I’m seeking deeper understanding of my purpose and focusing on trusting God more fully. I’m trying to make it feel like a time for letting go of what no longer serves me, making room for new
Gregory - I would say I’m in a season of rebirth. God is truly showing me his love and I’m becoming more spiritual as well. I feel
God is about to do something in me but not necessarily right away. I’m increasing in a way where God is building up all the energy within me to get ready for a launch. Like a catalyst. This is a season of being made new and getting ready to move forward because of it. Just to offer a little backstory to answer the second part of the question, me and my mother took a trip down to phoenix to hear a pastor speak and the word was great. He had 3 sessions but before and after each of them his wife would pray and she would always speak in tongues. I noticed that when she did this other people spoke in the language too, but I was just praying regularly. Seeing others speak in this heavenly language inspired and motivated me to want to do it as well. When the time came, she asked if anyone had never spoken in tongues and I raised my hand. She didn’t see me at first but I made my way up to the stage anyway and waited until she
noticed me. I remember praying “please God let her see me” because this was something I truly wanted. She saw me and she prayed for me and right there and then God answered my prayers and I began speaking in tongues. I have been ever since. This applies to the question “how can I make the most of my season?” because it unlocks a new level of focused prayer. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I am praying for exactly what I need and I’m bringing forward what God wants from me through prayer. I believe this is exactly what I need to be doing in this season.
KaLisa - I would describe my spiritual season as a time of progress and a renewing of my spirit. Now as seasons change, I will be staying inside a lot more, and I can use that time to spend with God. Before I felt like my spirit wasn't as strong with God but now as I get more into my Bible and going to church more, I can exponentially see the growth that I have had. Essentially with seasons changing I will make my best effort to keep growing in Christ by spending more time with him, reading my Bible, and praying in spirit
Anaij - I’ve noticed that as winter approaches, my relationship with God has felt more distant. It’s not intentional, but with everything going on, it’s been hard to maintain the closeness I once felt. Between preparing for finals and the overwhelming process of college applications taking up most of my time, I’ve found myself struggling to prioritize my spiritual life. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness and forget to make time for what truly matters. However, I’m making an intentional effort to be more mindful of how I spend my time. When I do manage to carve out free moments, I’m trying to focus on activities that nurture my faith like reading the Bible, praying, and spending quiet time with God. It’s not always easy, but I know that staying connected with Him is essential, especially during such a challenging and transitional season in my life.
Isaiah - When I think about the current season God’s had me in recently, I’m reminded of a song that came out this year by Transformation Worship LOOK AT MY FRUIT!! The last 4-5 months have truly been my fruit season. I feel like the last year and a half was about sowing
seed, putting in spiritual and physical work in the background to witness what I see today. God had to prune me and refine me in the seasons before this, and He still is refining me in my fruitful season! He had to train me to know where my yeses and no’s are, and because of that and a growing sensitivity to the spirit, I’ve been blessed to walk right into the biggest blessings of my life!
In the past 4 months, I’ve travelled the Midwest, specifically all over Oklahoma, and into Arkansas as well. I’ve been honored with the opportunity to lead worship for all ages and situations… from High School Chapels with excited and passionate kids, to retreats with adults with real life experiences, pains, and personal challenges only God can fix. Through all of these experiences, I was able to see the hand of God in my life and in all of theirs, as we worshipped together and came before the King of Kings. He constantly showed me where I was just two short years ago, and how He truly can make beauty from ashes!
From worshiping across the states and at my college campus, I found an amazing church in Oklahoma, and was honored to be a part of one of the
most amazing live recordings I’ve ever seen. I’m still in shock that God chose ME as a vessel to carry out His will for that event.
And in the midst of all that, I dropped my second studio album with my brother Tyrique. This album took a lot of work, tears, and stress, but I’m so glad God gave me the strength to get it out to the world. I’m so excited to see what God does with Twenty-Four!
2. Are there any interesting or exciting extracurriculars/ events in or outside of school you will be beginning this winter. If so, what are you looking to get out of it? Do you think there’s a way to glorify God through it as well?
My Answer- This winter is when I begin soccer. The main thing I hope to get out of it is staying fit for track and having fun. I love running when it’s cold outside and I love being on a team.
I’m thankful that God has given me the physical health and ability to participate in sports. Although soccer is just for fun, I hope I can
Naomi
be an encouraging light on the team. I am a senior but it’s only my second year playing so I can’t say I can be much help when it comes to teaching the game but I would like to work on building the confidence and security in my teammates. Another way I can glorify God is through patience and kindness both which have already been tested. I want to be able to keep my calm when me or my teammates make mistakes and learn how to be more patient with myself and others even if things aren’t turning out the way I hope.
Ephesians 4:29 “Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Lastly, Soccer is time consuming and I was in constant debate if I should continue to do it or not. I was worried I wouldn't have time for both homework and personal time with God. I was torn between making the most of my senior year by doing something I enjoy or making more time for work. I was worried God would be mad at me if I chose Soccer but I realized it's not often about the decision I make but more about how I deal with consequences. If I
didn't do the sport, would I have complained continually about not being able to participate, or used the extra time to develop spiritually. If I did do the sport, would I complain about having too much on my plate or rely on God for perseverance allowing Him to reveal His Glory by helping me balance my activities. I'm choosing to do Soccer and this way I can give glory to God by continuing to provide His children with energy and strength no matter the responsibility. Isaiah 40 “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired and young men will fall into exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”
Emylie -Working with my church during the winter season offers so many ways to engage in meaningful service and growth. Whether I’m helping organize events, assisting in outreach programs, this can be a powerful opportunity to glorify God. Working within my church community can deepen your relationship with God, as you’re surrounded by others who encourage
your spiritual growth. I also will be helping support my school program to work and support kids during the holiday season who don’t have much. Giving back to kids who don’t have much is one of the most meaningful ways to serve and reflect God’s love. Children, especially those in underserved communities, often face challenges that we can only begin to understand. By offering my time, resources, or care, I really want to lead to making a profound impact on their lives.
KaLisa- I will be dancing and doing more volunteer work this winter. I am excited to be overflowed with joy from these activities. Dancing is my passion and a gift from God that I can't wait to sharpen. Not only this, but volunteering at my church is so fulfilling because I get to see other people being blessed with the amazing things that we have to offer. Seeing them have that feeling of happiness makes my soul feel warm. I get to glorify God with my gift of dance that He has given me but also blessing people which I can't wait to start doing.
Gregory - There are two things I have been thinking of starting and that is baseball and chess club. As for
baseball I hope to get more fit and work on my work ethic because I know I will have to convince myself to get up and go to practice. I think I can also learn more good skills like teamwork. Then there's the chess club. I want to become efficient in the strategy that comes with chess. What’s cool is that I believe the knowledge and characteristics I can build through these activities can overlap into my spiritual life. For example, the good work ethic that will develop in my life can help me when studying my word or completing service for God. Starter can come in handy when I am in a spiritual battle against my enemy and thinking carefully about what scriptures and intentional prayers I need to use will come in hand.
Anaij- Although I haven’t yet made specific plans to join any extracurricular activities or sports, I’m feeling excited and optimistic about what the future might hold. I’m looking forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone and exploring new opportunities that could help me grow as a person. Whether it’s trying something completely unfamiliar or building on existing interests, I want to approach these experiences with an open heart and a willingness to learn.
Most importantly, I’m relying on God to guide me in the right direction. Through prayer, I’m asking Him to show me the path that aligns with His will and allows me to use my talents in ways that bring Him glory. It’s a journey of faith and trust, and I’m eager to see how He works in my life as I take these steps forward.
Isaiah-Throughout the end of this year, my motto is REST!! I’ve been in such a fruitful season of my life, that I understand how much rest is necessary. I believe a scheme of the enemy is to keep putting things in front of us that may seem harmless or even smart to be a part of, but at the expense of our wellbeing, health, and spiritual alignment. Serving, producing and birthing constantly will lead to fatigue and overstimulation if not stewarded correctly. So, the rest of the year I’m committed to resting. And not just my body, but resting in the Lord... a true rest! Lord willing, this will give me the strength to press on into the next season He’s calling me to in 2025!
I have some projects in Oklahoma during the early parts of the year that I am praying/working through right now. I can’t say much yet but we have some concerts, worship events, and
Generation Free gatherings on the way soon!
For Tucson, stay tuned! The summertime is going to be filled with projects and events that I’m itching to share, but can’t just yet!! Just know you’re not going to want to miss out.
Music wise, I have about 15 songs in the vault right now that are waiting to be released! As God continues to provide the download of creativity, I’m committed to continuing to share it out!!
Don’t forget to send us your feedback.
See you next time…
Naomi Martin, Head Writer/Interviewer
Y. P. W. P.
CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST RECIPE:
SPICED WAFFLES WITH CINNAMON PEARS
There's nothing better than a classic, comforting meal on Christmas morning.
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the waffles
• 2 ½ cups flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
COOK TIME: 35 minutes TOTAL TIME: 55 minutes
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
For the pear topping
• 3-4 thinly sliced pears
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch salt
Instructions
For the waffles
• In a medium bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, spices, and salt.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined. Beat in the vanilla extract.
• Stir in the dry ingredients until a batter starts to form. Stir in the melted butter until combined.
• Heat your waffle iron to the desired setting. Once hot, make your waffles according to the iron's directions.
• Serve the waffles immediately, topping with cinnamon pears and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
For the pear topping
• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
• Once melted, add the pears and stir. Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until the pears soften slightly.
• Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir and toss gently.
• Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the pears are syrupy, caramelly, and soft.
• Serve immediately on top of your waffles.
AUTHOR
Jessica Merchant
Sleigh
the Holidays Without the Extra Pounds:
Simple & Easy Tips to Prevent Holiday Weight Gain
On average, Americans gain about 1 to 2 pounds during the holiday season, according to various studies. While this may not seem like a lot, research suggests that this weight gain is often not lost afterward, which can accumulate over the years.
Navigating the holiday season without gaining weight might seem like trying to stay dry in a rainstorm it’s no easy task when the tables are groaning with goodies, and “just one more bite” becomes a recurring theme. But fear not! With a mix of mindful planning, a dash of humor, and a sprinkling of encouragement, you can enjoy the festive season without making January a month of regret. Here are some thoughtful tips to help you stay on track, while also keeping your spirits bright!
1. Begin with a Game Plan
The holidays are filled with delicious temptations, so having a plan before heading to gatherings can make all the difference. Consider these strategies:
•Eat Before You Go:
If you arrive at a party ravenous, you’re more likely to overindulge. Eating a small, protein-rich snack beforehand can help curb hunger. Think nuts, Greek yogurt, or a boiled egg.
•Prioritize What You Love:
When you arrive at a buffet, scan the offerings before loading up your plate. Pick the treats you genuinely love and skip the ones that don’t spark joy. It’s your party, after all!
Scripture offers timeless wisdom here: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). Treating your body as a temple means choosing what nourishes it, even during holiday festivities.
2. Portion Control Is Your Friend
It’s easy to forget portion sizes when faced with your favorite aunt’s famous triplechocolate cake or Grandma’s loaded cornbread dressing. Instead of denying yourself, practice moderation:
•Use a Smaller Plate:
A smaller plate gives the illusion of a fuller meal without actually eating more.
•Exercise the “Taste and Savor” Rule: Take a small serving of what you love, and savor each bite mindfully. Enjoy the taste, texture, temperature, and full experience. You don’t need a heaping plate to feel satisfied. Truth be told, we usually feel miserable instead of satisfied.
This echoes the biblical call to self-control: “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.”(Proverbs 25:28). Keeping your portions in check helps build up those healthy “walls” of discipline.
3. Don’t Forget to Hydrate
Thirst is often mistaken for hunger. Before reaching for that next holiday cookie, try drinking an 8oz glass of water and waiting 10 minutes. You probably won’t remember that cookie. Staying hydrated throughout the day helps manage appetite and can keep your energy levels up. Make water your companion at parties, alternating sips of water between your other beverages.
Want a touch of holiday cheer without all the calories? Opt for sparkling water with a
splash of cranberry juice or a squeeze of citrus.
4. Move and Groove
Holiday parties often mean hours of sitting, eating, and chatting. While cozy conversations are lovely, don’t let your muscles grow too familiar with the couch cushions:
•Take a Post-Meal Walk:
Suggest a family walk and talk after meals. It’s great for digestion and doubles as quality bonding time.
•Dance It Out:
Be sure to include music and take the chance to dance! Dancing burns calories, and it’s way more fun than boring gym routines.
•Sneak in Exercise:
Make a morning stretch or quick workout part of your holiday routine. You can jog for 1 minute or do a few jumping jacks or seated leg lifts while in the restroom. It can help offset any extra treats you’ve enjoyed.
Remember Paul’s words: “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things” (1 Timothy 4:8). Balancing exercise and spiritual health during the holidays is a gift to yourself.
5. Be Mindful of Beverages
The holidays come with an abundance of festive drinks, from creamy eggnog to sugary punch. These beverages can quickly add up, often containing more calories than meals.
•Make Smart Swaps:
Trade sugary cocktails for lighter alternatives, like a glass of red wine or a cocktail with sparkling water and fresh herbs.
•Limit or Eliminate Alcohol Intake:
Alcohol lowers inhibitions, which can lead to overeating. Sip slowly and drink water in between.
6. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management
With endless shopping lists, family dynamics, and social commitments, stress can skyrocket during the holiday season. Stress, coupled with sleep deprivation, often leads to emotional eating and poor food choices.
•Make Sleep a Priority:
Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Sleep supports better decision-making and reduces cravings.
•Practice Self-Care:
Whether it’s a short meditation, reading, or taking a bubble bath, give yourself moments of rest. This is more doable when the party is at your house or if you’re one of those people who can sleep anywhere. Enjoy!
•Deep Breathing and Prayer:
Take deep breaths and turn to prayer when stress hits. Scripture tells us, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
•Leave Before the Party Ends
People who leave before the party ends typically don’t take home as many leftovers, prevent late-night snacking, and can get to bed earlier. Getting a good night's sleep and maintaining your routine, supports healthier choices. It also gives you time to recharge and reflect on the enjoyable moments without feeling drained. Plus, you'll wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the next day!
7. Eat Mindfully
Mindful eating means slowing down, appreciating your food, and listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. This practice helps you avoid overeating and allows you to truly enjoy what you’re eating.
•Put Down the Fork:
Between bites, put your fork down and engage in conversation. This naturally slows your eating.
•Be Present:
Enjoy the flavors and textures without distractions. Turn off the TV and cell phones to be present with your loved ones and your meal.
•Be Thankful:
Take a moment to thank God for the food and the people around you. Gratitude enriches your dining experience and can help curb mindless eating.
8. Plan for Healthy Alternatives
Want to contribute to the holiday feast? Bring a healthier dish! It’s a great way to share your favorite nutritious recipes and give yourself a dependable option. Consider roasted vegetables, lean proteins, or a fruitbased dessert.
9. Allow Room for Grace
Despite all your best intentions, holiday slipups will happen. There will be days when you have that extra cookie or indulge in a second helping of pie and that’s okay! Instead of berating yourself, practice selfcompassion and return to healthier habits at the next meal.
As Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal.” Don’t dwell on one moment of overindulgence. Press on and keep going.
10. Lean on Accountability
Sometimes, we need a little extra encouragement. Ask a friend, family member, or support group to check in with you about your holiday health goals. Together, you can celebrate victories and encourage one another when the dessert table calls.
11. Savor Sweet Traditions, But Focus on Experiences
Many holiday traditions revolve around food, but the memories we cherish are about so much more. Try shifting your focus:
•Make Holiday Crafts:
Instead of cookie decorating, consider holiday crafts or other non-food-related activities. Like a sing-along or some oldschool caroling at a house or two in the neighborhood.
•Start a New Tradition:
Consider charity work, games, or family outings.
"Never Have I Ever" is a popular party game. It is typically played among groups, and helps participants learn more about each other’s experiences through sharing and a bit of fun competition.
Here's how to play:
1. Gather Participants: Sit in a circle so everyone can see each other.
2. Decide the Format: This game can be played with points (typically fingers and pennies) For this explanation, we'll use the "fingers" version.
3. Starting the Game: One player starts by making a statement beginning with “Never have I ever…” and then follows it with something they have never done. For example, “Never have I ever gone skydiving.”
4. Responding: Anyone in the group who has done the action must lower a finger (typically starting with five or ten fingers up).
5. Play Continues: The next person makes their “Never have I ever” statement, and the game goes around the circle in turns.
6. Goal: The aim is to stay in the game the longest by keeping as many fingers up as possible. The last person with fingers remaining wins.
### Tips:
- Statements can range from light and fun to more personal topics, but ensure everyone is comfortable with the level of questions.
- Establish boundaries before playing to keep the game fun and appropriate for the group.
Enjoy connecting with others through this playful game!
Reflect on What Truly Matters:
Take time to remember the reason for the season. Reflect on your faith, give thanks, and create lasting moments with loved ones.
12. Enjoy What You Eat
Lastly, don’t forget to actually enjoy what you’re eating! Guilt can be more damaging than a piece of cake. Practice mindfulness, moderation, and gratitude, and you’ll leave the holidays feeling good about your choices.
Bringing It All Together
Staying mindful during the holiday season is about more than weight it’s about caring for the body God has blessed you with. Whether it’s choosing to eat mindfully, staying active, or finding peace amid holiday stress, taking care of yourself is an act of stewardship and self-love.
Remember Romans 12:1: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God this is your true and proper worship.” This holiday season, offer your body care and balance. Enjoy the food, the moments, and the memories while treating yourself with the kindness you deserve.
So, raise that glass of sparkling water, take a slow bite of that holiday treat, and remember you’ve got this! With thoughtfulness, a plan, and a touch of grace, you can savor every bit of this wonderful season without the unwanted “baggage” of extra pounds.
Let's Pray: Heavenly Father,
I come before You seeking balance in my life and a genuine connection with those around me. Grant me wisdom to manage my time, energy, and priorities, so that I may honor You in all I do. Guide my relationship with food and people so that they reflect Your grace and truth. May my words and actions be pleasing to You this day and forever.
In Jesus’s name, I pray, Amen.
By Venita Freeman
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